darien

answerbook.2011
the darien times special section
2 • darien answerbook February 17, 2011

Serving Darien with Uncompromising

Sales & Services for Over 55 Years
February 17, 2011 darien answerbook • 3

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Serving the Fairfield County Community and beyond since 1952 with full service quality
insurance programs for individuals, businesses and not for profit corporations.
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Ÿ Member of The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America
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4 • darien answerbook
Published annually by Hersam Acorn Newspapers
as a special section of The Darien Times.
Copies are also available at real estate offices,
town hall and Chamber of Commerce.
For additional copies, call 203-966-9541.
Contents are online at DarienTimes.com.
Thomas B. Nash, publisher
Gregg Bartlett, editor
Mary Anne Hersam, vice president of sales
Lauren Spicehandler, account executive
Elizabeth Coté, real estate account executive
Cover photo by Bryan Haeffele
Cover design by Ian Murren
Map by David Raabe
Please send updates, ideas, or corrections to:
answerbook@acorn-online.com
©2011 Hersam Acorn Newspapers
16 Bailey Avenue, Ridgefield, Conn., 06877
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February 17, 2011
Table of Contents
Complete index on pages 68-69
History ........................................................................6
Demographics............................................................8
Government.............................................................11
Town officials ..........................................................18
Schools .....................................................................19
Public Services .........................................................26
Property Issues .........................................................30
Emergency Services .................................................34
Map of Darien Points of Interest ...........................36
Health ......................................................................39
Senior Citizens .........................................................44
Religion ....................................................................46
Children & Teens .....................................................48
Recreation................................................................50
Clubs & Organizations ............................................54
Entertainment .........................................................56
Food & Shopping ....................................................59
Business ....................................................................62
Utilities .....................................................................63
Pets & Animals.........................................................64
Transportation .........................................................65
Media .......................................................................67
Darien Web Sites .....................................................69
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 6 • darien answerbook History February 17, 2011

When was the town founded and by whom? During the American Revolution, local Tories frequently
According to the Darien Historical Society, which has helped raided Middlesex Parish, and on July 22, 1781, they disrupted
in preparing this section of the Answer Book, the first residents services at the meetinghouse and captured 48 men, includ-
of this area were the Siwanoy Indians, a generally peaceful ing the minister, Dr. Moses Mather, and took them across the
people who lived by fishing, hunting, and tending their corn- Sound. Dr. Mather and 26 of his parishioners spent five months
fields. In 1640 they sold a piece of land, where the Rippowam in British prisons in New York City before they were able to
River met Long Island Sound, to New Haven Colony. Settled by return home.
28 families, it became part of Stamford. After the war, people turned their energies to opening a
The property’s eastern boundary was Pine Brook, today Turnpike Road (now the Post Road) in 1807, and establishing
called Goodwives River. In only a few years the settlement daily mail service. Schools and shops were built, and by 1820,
grew to 59 families, and they began to look for more land. They Middlesex Parish was turned loose from Stamford and renamed
struck a deal with Piamikin, chief of the Roatons, for a tract of Darien.
land between Pine Brook and Five Mile River, which includes Growth continued as the New Haven Railroad came through
the Tokeneke section of Darien. The price was four coats and in 1848, and commerce began to shift from the harbor to the
some tobacco. railroad station at the Post Road crossing. Until the advent of the
The first roads were cut in 1700 and the first school district railroad, Darien was a small, rural community of about 1,000
was set up in 1703 in Noroton. Small houses began to be built farmers, shoemakers, fishermen, and merchants engaged in
near Gorham’s Pond. In 1708 Richard Scofield and Thomas coastal trading. Ensuing years would see an increase in popula-
Youngs���were granted at the tion with the arrival of immigrants from Ireland and later from
a permit to erect a gristmill and dam �����
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mouth of Pine Brook. It was known as Scofield’s Mill and later Italy.

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Clock’s Mill and Landing, after Scofield conveyed the property In 1864 during the Civil War, the first home for disabled war
to his German son-in-law, John Klock. Captain George Gorham veterans and soldiers’ orphans in the United States was built at

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bought the mill in 1740, and it remained in the Gorham fam- Noroton Heights, named after its founder, Benjamin Fitch of
ily for nearly 200 years. The area was still known as Clock’s Darien. The end of the war brought a building boom, and on
well into the 19th Century, when the name Ring’s End what had once been farmland sprouted homes for prosperous
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began to appear in the land records. businessmen and local merchants. A number of well-to-do New
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By 1737, this area was known as Middlesex Parish. That was Yorkers discovered Darien’s picturesque shoreline and built
year the Middlesex Ecclesiastical Society was established, summer homes in Tokeneke, Long Neck Point and Noroton. In
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and by 1744 a meetinghouse was built. By 1772 the stagecoach 1897, the Stamford Street Railway inaugurated a trolley service
was making regular trips, every two weeks, along the country through Darien that lasted until 1933.
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road, which was the main highway connecting New York and Darien was still a small town of a few thousand people in
Boston. Its path roughly corresponded to today’s Post Road.
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here who taxied by surrey from home to station.
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The town center grew steadily along with the population. By the
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General prosperity and growth continued until the population
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Where did the name come from?

The history of Darien’s name, adopted in 1820, is murky. The
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town was originally to be called Bellville, after Thaddeus Bell,

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an early founder. Members of the historical society think the

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town was named after the Isthmus of Darien in Panama.
What are some historic points of interest?
The Bates-Scofield House Museum at 45 Old Kings Highway
����� North is owned by the Darien Historical Society, which over-
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saw its restoration in 1964. The house, built around 1736, is a
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and beehive oven. It is filled with 18th and 19th Century fur-
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nishings. An herb garden adjacent to the house is tended by the

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���������������������������������� Darien Garden Club. There are tours of the house from 2 to 4 on
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Wednesdays and Thursdays. Call 203-655-9233 for details.
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who was instrumental in establishing the National Park Service
��������������������������������� in the early 1920’s. It has been home to members of the Mather
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�������������������������������������������������� family ever since.
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Century. In the Mather cemetery, which is near the Stephen
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Mather house, are buried many members of the Mather fam-
ily. Many members of the Bates family are laid to rest in the
Bates Middlesex cemetery behind the Masonic lodge on the
Post Road.
February 17, 2011 darien answerbook • 7

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8 • darien answerbook History
Is any place in Darien on the National Register of
Historic Places?
Yes. On the National Register of Historic Places are the Bates-
Scofield House Museum; Meadowlands, home of the Darien
Community Association; and the Stephen Mather House.
What are the oldest houses in town?
The distinction of being the oldest surviving house in town is
the Pond Weed House on Post Road, which dates from 1696.
The Jonathan Bates House, which dates from 1705, is one of
several 18th-century houses throughout town.
What is the role of the Darien Historical Society?
The historical society collects and preserves materials of local
historical value. It also educates the community about its heri-
tage through its art and architecture, oral remembrances, and
public programs.
The historical society has offices at the Bates-Scofield House
Museum and can be reached Tuesday, 9 to 2; Wednesday and
Thursday, 9 to 4; and Friday, 9 to 2; at 203-655-9233. The
society maintains a Web site at historical.darien.org. E-mail:
info@darienhistorical.org.
Are there any town histories?
The Darien Historical Society keeps town histories at the
Demographics
How big is Darien?
According to town documents, Darien comprises approxi-
mately 23 square miles (almost 13 square miles of land and
more than 10 square miles of water), with some 16.5 miles of
shoreline along Long Island Sound. The town sits at an eleva-
tion ranging from sea level to 250 feet above sea level.
How many people live here?
Darien’s population in 2009 was 19,375, according to the
Connecticut Economic Resource Center (CERC) 2010 Town
Profile (the latest available report). That total was down from
20,100 in 2008, and from 19,607 in 2000. The population is pro-
jected to decline to 18,172 by 2014. In 2009, there were 9,791
females and 9,584 males.
What is the median age of people here?
The median age in Darien is 41 years old. The largest percent-
age of Darienites, 15.5% (a total of 6,183), fall within the ages
of 25-49. Other age range data: newborn to 4, 1,749, 5%; ages
5-17, 4,040, 10.5%; ages 18-24, 957, 2.5%; ages 50-64, 3,932,
10%; ages 65 and older, 2,514, 6.5%.
What is Darien’s racial makeup?
According to the 2010 CERC Town Profile, Darien’s
racial makeup is as follows: white, 18,130; Hispanic, 691;
Asian Pacific, 660; black, 250; other/multi-race, 327; Native
American, 8.
What is the income level of a family here?
The 2009 median household income in Darien was $187,581,
compared to $82,184 in Fairfield County and $68,055 in the
state.
What is the real estate picture in Darien?
House sales increased by 35.7% in 2010, compared to 2009,
according to Al Filippone Associates (AFA Homes/afadarien.
com). Average sale price was up 17.9% from 2009 and 8.8%
February 17, 2011
Bates-Scofield House. The society’s 280-page, illustrated pub-
lication The Story of Darien, Connecticut, by Kenneth M. Reiss
(a former Darien Historical Society president), is available for
purchase at $75.
Are there any historic districts in town?
The only historic district in town is along Boston Post
Road, which includes the Bates-Scofield House and the old
Congregational Church.
Does Darien have a town historian?
Yes. Marian M. Castell is town historian. One of her duties
is to oversee the placement of plaques on homes of historic
significance. She is also involved in examining old homes
slated for demolition, to determine whether or not they should
be preserved.
Do any laws protect old houses?
Since the early 1990s, Darien has had a demolition delay
ordinance. Before any structure more than 50 years old is
demolished, a legal notice must be published to that effect and
a 90-day waiting period is imposed to give anyone who might
want to save either the building or its contents time to negotiate
with the owner. The law, ultimately, does not prevent anyone
from tearing down an old building.
from 2008.
Average list price was up 14.5% to $1,804,452 through
December 2010, and the average sale price was up 17.9% to
$1,695, 793 in 2010 versus 2009.
The number of homes listed was down 0.4% to 520 in
2010 compared to 2009’s total and down 18.5% versus 2008.
Inventory is low in Darien.
For the week ending Jan. 26, the average listing price of a
Darien home was $2.73 million, up 0.6%; the median sale price
was $1.2 million, up 37.2% from a year ago, according to real
estate Web sites. There were 217 homes listed for sale, and 212
sold and there were four foreclosures. The number of sales was
down by 30 or 5% from the year before.
Midway through 2010, homes depreciated 6.1% over the past
12 months, according to Aol Real Estate (realestate.aol.com). A
total of 85% of homes are owned, 11% rented and 3% vacant.
Average estimated value: $1,422,594, up 0.23%. Average sale
price: $1,971,847.
As of early spring in 2010, there were 273 homes for sale in
Darien, 142 sold houses and eight homes in one stage or another
of foreclosure. The average listing price by the end of March
was just over $2 million.
A comeback in the real estate market had been happening in
town, but slowly, according to Darien Realtors, as reported in
the Darien Times in early March 2010. Fairfield County house
sales shot up 60% in January and median price 30%, accord-
ing to the Warren Group, a real estate data provider for New
England.
After an active year in 2007, the real estate market nearly
ground to a halt in 2008. According to the Darien Board of
Realtors Inc. (108 Old Kings Highway North/203-655-3700),
187 single-family homes were sold in Darien in 2008, com-
pared to 342 homes sold in 2007. The average sale price was
$1,558,477, compared to $1,856,598 in 2007. The median sale
price was $1,.335 million, compared to $1.425 million the year
before.
Houses have taken longer to sell, with the time on the market
February 17, 2011 darien answerbook • 9

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10 • darien answerbook Demographics
in the recent economic downturn period having been the worse
in 10 years, spending an average of 121 days on the market in
2008, compared to 94 days in 2007, 83 in 2006, 70 in 2005, and
60 days in 2004.
In 2010, the average market time was 140 days, up by four
days from 2009 and 20 days from 2008, acccording to real
estate Web sites.
There is not a big condo market in Darien; there were no
condo sales in 2008, compared to 10 in 2007 and eight in 2006.
The average sale price in 2007 was $701,375. The median sale
price in 2007 was $677,000. In 2007, condos spent an average
of 101 days on the market.
How many households are there in town?
There are approximately 6,500 households in Darien, down
from 6,660 in 2008.
What is the town’s ZIP code?
The ZIP code is 06820; the telephone area code is 203. Ten
digit dialing became mandatory in Connecticut mid-November
2009.
What is the town’s labor force and what is the unem-
ployment rate?
Statistics from Connecticut’s Department of Labor showed
in December 2010, Darien had a work force of 9,189 people.
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February 17, 2011
Of those, 8,643 were employed, with 546 unemployed, yielding
an unemployment rate of 5.9%, up from 5.8% a year ago. This
compared to a state unemployment rate of 8.6% by the end of
2010, up from 8.05% the year before.
How far is Darien from major cities?
Darien is 36 miles from New York City; 64 miles from
Hartford, the capital of Connecticut; 119 miles from Providence;
and 155 miles from Boston.
Darien is approximately 32 miles southeast of the nuclear
power plant in Buchanan, N.Y.
What weather statistics are available?
The weather in Darien ranges from an average high of 83
degrees in July to an average low of 17 degrees in January.
The record high is 103 degrees in July 1966. The record low is
minus 15 degrees in January 1968. Darien receives an average
of 46 inches of precipitation a year.
What is the growing season?
Darien is in Hardiness Zone 6, as defined by the U.S.
Department of Agriculture. The summer growing season is
generally defined by the last spring frost and the first fall frost.
Gardeners are usually safe to assume the last frost will occur by
Memorial Day, and they can expect the first hard frost no later
than the first or second week of October.
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February 17, 2011 Town Government
Where are town offices?
The Town Hall is at 2 Renshaw Road. Offices are open 8:30
to 4:30 weekdays. They are closed weekends and holidays. For
general information, call 203-656-7300. The town maintains a
Web site at www.darienct.gov.
Who is the chief executive of the town?
The first selectman is David M. Campbell, a Republican
elected in 2009, who was born and raised in Darien. His
office, Room 202 in town hall, is open from 8:30 to 4:30. He
may be reached at 203-656-7338 or dcampbell@darienct.gov.
His salary is $80,000.
Mr. Campbell is also chairman of the Board of Selectmen,
which includes Republicans Gerald A. Nielsen Jr. and Jayme
J. Stevenson and Democrats David F. Bayne and Callie Anne
Sullivan. The first selectman and the board members are elect-
ed for a two-year term each in odd-numbered years.
An administrative officer appointed by the Board of
Selectmen handles day-to-day operations. The board is respon-
sible for directing the administration, policy-making, and daily
affairs of the town.
In its 2010 mission statement at darienct.gov., the board
declared it “remains committed to preserving the character of
our town, maintaining our position as a premier town in the
state of Connecticut, and providing a high level of service to
Darien residents. During these financially challenging times
the Board of Selectmen will strive to do so without putting
additional burden on taxpayers.”
The selectmen, at the town’s Web site, offer a specific list
of its priorities in areas of fiscal responsibility, the environ-
ment and open and community space, human services, down-
town and business development, traffic and transportation and
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darien answerbook • 11
affordable housing, as well as ongoing government changes
and responsibilities.
Who is the town administrative officer?
The town administrative officer is Karl Kilduff. His office,
Room 202 in town hall, is open from 8:30 to 4:30. He may be
reached at 203-656-7333 or kkilduff@darienct.gov. His salary
is $144,210.
How is the town viewed by local leaders?
In a statement online at the town’s Web site (darienct.gov),
the Board of Selectmen has described Darien as “a 21st cen-
tury residential community that has maintained the charm and
character of a small New England town. Darien offers to its
residents an outstanding school system, two beautiful beaches,
green park lands, playgrounds, a state-of-the-art library, several
shopping areas and a senior activities center. The town takes
tremendous pride in the number of volunteers who participate
and support the town as elected officials, emergency respond-
ers, as community leaders and members of the numerous town
organizations.”
The president and CEO of the Darien Chamber of Commerce,
Carol Wilder-Tamme, describes Darien, in the Chamber’s
Member Directory, as “a beautiful town on Long Island that
offers history, culture, lush vegetation, excellent schools, active
churches, attractive beaches, social clubs, civic organizations
and a variety of philanthropic organizations. Darien has a won-
derful selection of restaurants, shops, galleries, performing arts
venues, recreation and diverse businesses.”
First Selectman David M. Campbell, a Darien native, has
declared that fellow residents of Darien “are its heart and soul.
They are the driving force behind so many of the activities and
Ruth Nicodemus, Trainer
Contact Us 203-655-2559
oxridgehuntclub@gmail.com
12 • darien answerbook Town Government
organizations that make Darien a sought after destination to
live. It’s the residents who actively participate in the schools,
non-profit organizations and community organizations that pro-
tect our valued family lifestyle.”
Is there a directory of town officials?
There is a list at the town’s Web site, darienct.gov. and the
League of Women Voters of Darien Web site (lwv.darien.org)
also has a list of elected officials, including Representative
Town Meeting members, plus chairs of appointed boards and
commissions.
A list of officials and major board members also appears in
the Answerbook.
What is the Representative Town Meeting?
At a traditional Town Meeting, all registered voters may
attend and vote on issues. Darien switched to a Representative
Town Meeting in 1951. The Representative Town Meeting, also
known as an RTM, is comprised of a limit of 100 members who
represent six districts. They are elected to two-year terms, with-
out party affiliation. Members serve without compensation.
As a legislative body, members of the RTM pass laws and
ordinances and appropriate money. The RTM also approves col-
lective bargaining contracts with town employees.
When does the RTM meet?
There are six regularly scheduled meetings. The Annual
Town Meeting is the second Monday of November, followed
four weeks later by the State of the Town Meeting. Additional
meetings are the fourth Monday of January, the third Monday
of March, the second Monday of May (annual budget meeting),
and the fourth Monday of September. Special meetings may
also be called.
All meetings begin at 8 p.m., unless otherwise noted, in the
Town Hall Auditorium.
Who may attend the meetings?
All meetings are open to the public. Darien residents may par-
ticipate in the meetings, but only members may make motions
or vote.
Is the RTM’s word final?
The following actions by the RTM are subject to overrule by
referendum: passage of an ordinance, expenditure of $50,000 or
more for any purpose, or the issuance of bonds. A referendum
may be requested by a petition.
Who can become a member of the RTM?
Any registered voter in Darien is eligible to be elected to the
RTM. Prospective candidates must get at least 25 voters in their
district to sign a petition. Nomination petitions must be filed
with the town clerk between eight and 12 weeks before the elec-
tion. Members may run for re-election. Half the membership is
elected each year. For complete rules, call the town clerk at 656-
7307. The full membership is available online at darienct.gov.
Also check the Town Code there for RTM rules and regulations
under chapter XIII.
What is the town budget?
The total town budget for 2010-11 is $109.7 million, up
2.7% or $2.9 million from the previous fiscal year. This year’s
Board of Selectmen’s budget for town opeations is $38.2 mil-
lion, up about $100,000. The Board of Education budget for
the public schools is $71.5 million, up 4.1% or $2.8 million.
Capital expenditures approved totaled almost $7 million, down
$2 million.
February 17, 2011
What is the current tax rate in town?
The current Darien tax rate on both assessed property and
personal property is 11.74 mills, which represents a real tax of
$11.74 on each $1,000 of assessed value. This is an increase of
3.25% over the previous year.
What is the grand list?
A New England term, the grand list is the town’s tax base
and represents all taxable property in town. It is compiled each
year on Oct. 1, but is not finalized until Jan. 30. The grand list
reflects a 70% assessed value of all taxable property. The new
list was not yet available.
The 2009 gross taxable grand list was $8.75 billion, an
increase of more than $54.8 million, or 0.6%. Real estate assess-
ments: $8.4 billion, up about $30 million; business personal
property assessments: $150 million, up $28 million; and motor
vehicle assessments: $201 million, down $3 million.
The latest grand list follows a property revaluation conducted
in the fall of 2008 and showed a 33% increase over the previous
year when figures had been based on 2003 assessed values.
Who is the tax collector?
Robert A. Locke is Darien’s tax collector, a Republican re-
elected in 2009. He was re-elected to a two-year term in 2007.
His office is in Room 104 of town hall. His phone number is
203-656-7314, and his e-mail is blocke@darienct.gov.
Property taxes are by far the single largest source of revenue
for the town. The total was about $98 million in 2009-10.
Where and when do I pay my town taxes?
Property and personal property taxes are due in two install-
ments, July 1 and Jan. 1, and may be paid at the tax collector’s
office in town hall, or mailed to the address on the bill. Taxes
may be paid within 30 days of the due date without penalty.
Vehicle taxes are due in one installment on July 1 for vehicles
registered as of Oct. 1. Supplemental motor vehicle taxes are
due Jan. 1.
What do my taxes pay for?
Taxes support schools, police, road improvements, debt pay-
ments, and all other town services. A detailed accounting of how
collected taxes are spent is in the annual town report.
What happens if I don’t pay my taxes on time?
You will be charged a 1.5% interest each month on the install-
ment balance. This works out to 18% annually. The tax collector
does not have the authority to waive interest due.
Does the town ever foreclose on tax-debtor property?
Although the town has the right to foreclose, tax collector
Robert Locke said the town tries to work with people finding it
difficult to pay their taxes.
Who qualifies for a tax break?
Elderly residents may apply for tax relief through the asses-
sor’s office from Feb. 1 through May 15, each year. To qualify
for the town program that offers a waiver of up to 95% of the
normal tax, applicants must be 65 or permanently and totally
disabled. Their income cannot be more than $37,500 if single,
$46,300 if married. Darien also has an option for taxpayers
over age 65 to defer their taxes as long as their income is under
$59,500 for single persons and $66,300 for a married couple.
There is also a state tax credit program. For details, call the
assessor’s office at 203-656-7310.
Veterans who have served 90 days during an active period of
war, received an honorable discharge, and filed their discharge
February 17, 2011 Town Government
papers (DD214) with the town clerk are eligible for a tax break
within income guidelines: single, $30,500; married, $37,300.
One-hundred-percent disabled veterans are eligible for addi-
tional benefits.
How are car taxes figured?
Car taxes are levied at the same mill rate of 11.74 used for
property taxes. The mill rate is applied to the current assessed
value of the car. For example, if the assessed value of your car
is $1,000, you will pay $11.74 in personal property taxes for
the year.
I got a tax bill for a car I don’t own anymore. What
should I do?
The Department of Motor Vehicles maintains vehicle owner-
ship records, which it forwards to the town assessor’s office.
DMV will continue sending ownership reports to the town until
a vehicle’s license plates are turned in. To remove a car from
the tax roll, return the plates to the DMV office on Main Avenue
in Norwalk and take the DMV return receipt to the assessor’s
office.
What is the town’s bond rating?
The town’s bond rating is Aaa.
What is the revaluation program?
A revaluation involves appraising all real estate in town at
current fair market value in order to equalize assessments. The
state requires each municipality to undergo a revaluation every
five years. Darien completed its latest revaluation in 2008.
Those assessments (70% of fair market value) will be reflected
in tax bills in July 2009.
Who determines how much my house is worth for tax-
ing purposes?
The town assessor’s office is responsible for determining the
assessed value of each home. The assessor is Anthony Homicki,
CCMA II. His office is in Room 102, town hall, 8:30 to 4:30,
203-656-7310. An outside firm is brought in to assist the asses-
sor in performing the updating of all taxable and exempt values
in the year of revaluation. General information about assess-
ments is available at the town’s Web site, with a link to the
Connecticut Association of Assessing Officers site at caa.com.
How do I find the assessed value of my home?
You may call the assessor (203-656-7310) or the tax collec-
tor (203-656-7314), or you may go to the assessor’s office and
look at the field card for your property. The field card lists the
particulars in figuring the valuation of your home. Copies of the
field card are available for a nominal charge.
Is there anything I can do if I don’t agree with my
assessment?
Property owners who disagree with the assessment may
appeal to the Board of Assessment Appeal. This three-member
board is elected for a three-year term in odd-numbered years.
The board meets in March to hear real estate and personal
property appeals and September exclusively for motor vehicle
appeals. Visit the assessor’s office the month before to request
an appointment and get an application. Call 203-656-7310.
Who is the town treasurer?
Joan D. Hendrickson, a Republican re-elected in November
2009, is the town treasurer. Her office is in Room 201 at town
hall, 203-656-7336, jhendrickson@darienct.gov.
darien answerbook • 13
Who is the town clerk and what does she do?
Donna E. Rajczewski is Darien’s town clerk, a Republican
re-elected in 2009. Her office is in Room 101 in town hall. It
is open 8:30 to 4:30 weekdays. Her phone number is 203-656-
7307.
The town clerk is responsible for maintaining numerous
records and documents including: marriage licenses, birth
records, burial and disinterment permits, cremation certificates,
dog licenses, and copies or certified copies of land records and
maps. She handles the filing of liquor permits and land records,
and records deeds and survey maps. She is also responsible
for scheduling meetings and recording meetings of RTM and
RTM committees and various town boards and commissions.
Her office also handles absentee ballot voter registration (from
noon to 4:30).
The town clerk is elected every two years. She may be e-
mailed at drajczewski@darienct.gov.
Can I look up old deeds in town hall?
Deeds are open to the public and available for review at the
town clerk’s office.
Are birth, marriage, and death records public?
The general public can look at marriage and death record
indexes and get copies. Certified copies of a birth certificate
will be issued only to the person in question or, in the case of a
minor, their parents. Be prepared to provide photo identification
and sign a release affirming you are who you say you are.
How do I get a marriage license?
A license may be obtained from the town in which the bride
or groom lives, or where the wedding will take place. Blood
tests are not required. The fee is $30 and the license is good for
65 days. Call the town clerk for details at 203-656-7307.
What about same sex marriage or civil unions?
As of Nov. 12, 2008, same sex marriage became legal in
Connecticut. The requirements for entering a same sex mar-
riage are the same for an opposite-sex marriage. Previously,
Connecticut recognized civil unions between two people of the
same sex, which granted them the same benefits, rights and pro-
tections as are granted to spouses in a marriage. All civil unions
were converted into marriage on Oct. 1, 2010. For details, go to
Connecticut Public Health section at ct.gov.
Besides clergy, who can officiate at weddings?
A justice of the peace may officiate at a wedding within the
state, and federal judges may officiate at weddings anywhere.
To find a justice of the peace, call the town clerk’s office (203-
656-7307). A list of 23 justices with their phone numbers and
addresses appears on the town’s Web site.
What is a notary public? Where can I find one?
A notary public is someone legally empowered to witness sig-
natures, certify documents, and take depositions and affidavits.
Every bank has one on staff. Some real estate agents are notary
publics, as are some public officials. There are several at the
Darien Library, and there is a notary service at The UPS Store
in the Goodwives Shopping Plaza (203-655-6543). Some may
charge a small fee to notarize a document.
Where can I apply for a passport?
You may obtain a new passport or renew an expired one by
filling out an application. Applicants need two copies of a cur-
rent passport-size photo.
To obtain a passport for the first time, a birth certificate with
14 • darien answerbook Town Government
a raised seal is necessary. Applications must be signed before
the issuing agent.
The Darien Post Office at 30 Corbin Drive (203-655-2595)
processes passport applications, and can also take photos, if
needed. The post office also offers a passport card, good for
land and sea crossings to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean
and Bermuda. It is not valid for air travel. Passport hours are
Tuesday through Friday from 8 to 5 and Saturday from 8:30 to
noon. Appointments are required; call Peggy Andral at 203-655-
2595. Throughout the year, the Darien Library and post office
host Passport Day at the library. For details, visit darienlibrary.
org or call Ms. Andral.
If you are traveling within two weeks, you may visit the pass-
port agency at 50 Washington Street in Norwalk. Hours are 9 to
4, but an appointment is required by calling 1-877-487-2778.
This is where you may obtain visas for foreign travel.
To renew a passport, applicants will need to send the old
passport along with the application. Renewal applications are
available online at travel.state.gov. Don’t wait to renew. You
may have some trouble while traveling if your passport expires
in less than six months. For complete information, visit the U.S.
State Department site at state.gov.
What do the registrars of voters do?
The registrars keep up to date with current voting laws,
maintain the lists of qualified voters, keep the voting machines
in working order, and register new voters. They are elected to
two-year terms.
Darien has two registrars of voters: Thomas R. Dunn,
Democrat, 203-656-7319, and Donald Paul Smith, Republican,
203-656-7301. Their office, in Room 106 in Town Hall, is open
8:30 to 4:30. The general number is 203-656-7316.
Who can register to vote?
To register, you must be 17 years old or older, be a U.S. citi-
zen, and bona fide resident of Darien. You must be 18 to vote.
New residents may register as soon as they move to town.
There is no waiting period.
How do I register to vote?
There are several ways to register. You may register in person
by visiting the registrars of voters’ office in town hall. If the
office is closed, you may go to the town clerk’s office from noon
until 4:30. Bring a driver’s license or some form of identifica-
tion. A special registration session is held on a Saturday two
weeks prior to an election.
You may also register by mail. Applications are available
at the registrars’ office, Darien Library, Department of Motor
Vehicles, and other state agencies. A form is also available from
the secretary of the state’s Web site (ct.gov) or the Darien regis-
trars’ site (darienct.gov). Click on Town Officials and follow the
links. It may be printed out and mailed to the registrars’ office.
A person temporarily living in another state, such as a college
student, may register to vote by filling out a Connecticut voter
registration application and mailing it to the Darien registrars. A
voter registration session is always held yearly at Darien High
School in the spring prior to graduation.
Anyone wishing to vote in a general election must register at
least seven days in advance. Mail-in applications must be post-
marked 14 days before an election. For primaries, the registra-
tion deadline is five days prior.
When and where do I vote?
Regular elections take place every year on the Tuesday fol-
lowing the first Monday in November. Voting hours are 6 a.m.
to 8 p.m. Darien has six polling places: District 1, Ox Ridge
February 17, 2011
School; District 2, Town Hall; District 3, Holmes School;
District 4, Hindley School; District 5, Darien High School;
District 6, Darien Town Hall. Voters learn their polling place
upon registration, or can find out online at the town’s Web site.
Who can vote by absentee ballot?
Any registered voter who will be out of town during all vot-
ing hours may cast an absentee ballot. Voters prevented from
getting to the polls due to illness, disability, or religious beliefs
may also cast an absentee ballot.
How and where do I get an absentee ballot?
Applications for an absentee ballot are available from the
town clerk’s office, the registrars of voters, or online at the town
Web site. Ballots will be mailed after applications are received.
Students should get an absentee ballot application before they
go off to college.
Can a non-resident vote here?
A non-resident who owns property in Darien may vote in a
referendum only, and only if he or she was included in the last
published grand list. You must have a tax liability of at least
$1,000.
Must I renew my voting privileges?
While you do not need to formally renew your voting
privileges, you must participate in a voter canvass, conducted
each year by the registrars to ensure the accuracy of the Voter
Registry List. Each voter will receive a form that they must
sign and return. Non-compliance will place you on the inactive
list. You can get off the inactive list by filling out a restoration
form. Remaining on the inactive list for four years will get you
taken off the voting list. Should this happen, you will have to
re-register.
The registrars post the names of people who are considered
inactive on the town’s Web site.
Can I lose the right to vote?
Anyone convicted of a felony loses the right to vote. A person
may be reinstated as a voter after serving a sentence, completing
parole, and/or paying a fine.
How does one join a political party? What’s the advan-
tage?
A person may choose to join a political party when they reg-
ister to vote or any time after that. They may also remain unaf-
filiated. A person who belongs to one political party may leave
at any time to join another party. Membership in the new party
becomes effective three months from the date of application.
Only enrolled members of a political party may participate
in caucuses, conventions, and primaries of that party. Nearly
all elected officials and appointed office holders belong to a
political party.
What are our political parties and enrollments?
Shortly before Election Day 2010, a total of 12,975 Darienites
were registered voters. Of that number there were 6,315
Republicans; 2,487 Democrats; 4,158 unaffiliated; and 15
belonged to minor parties such as the Concerned Citizen, Green
and Libertarian parties.
What boards and commissions are appointed?
The following are all appointed: Advisory Commission
on Information Technology, Affordable Housing Advisory
Commission, Area Nine Cable Council, Architectural Review
Board, Beautification Commission, Building Board of Appeals,
February 17, 2011 Town Government
Business Development Committee, Coastal Waters Advisory
Commission, Charter Revision Commission, Commission
on Aging, Darien Housing Authority, Darien TV79 Advisory
Board, Deer Management Committee, Environmental Protection
Commission, Five Mile River Commission, Flood Mitigation
Committee, High School Building Committee, Monuments and
Ceremonies Commission, Operations Planning Committee, Park
and Recreation Commission, Police Commission, Resource
Conservation Advisory Commission, Sewer Commission, Social
Service Commissioners, Tokeneke School Building Committee,
Town and Police Pension Committees, Youth Commission, and
Zoning Board of Appeals.
How can I get involved in town government?
If you are affiliated with a party, get in touch with your
town party chairman: Republicans, Harry Artinian, 203-
656-0807; Democrats, John Davis, 203-356-1641 or e-mail:
johndavisrei@hotmail.com. The Republican Town Committee
Web site: darienrtc.com. The Democratic Town Committee Web
site: dtc.darien.org.
Who is the town’s judge of probate?
Early January brought an end to the era of single town judges
of probate, as the state law consolidating probate court districts
took effect. The Darien-New Canaan Probate Court debuted.
The office of probate judge, an elected position with a four-
year term, is held by Judge Michael Murray, a Republican
elected in November 2010. His office, in Room 204 of Town
Hall, is open 8:30 to 4:30, Monday through Friday. The phone
number is 203-656-7342. Chief clerk is Alice Ann Fitzpatrick.
The judge establishes the validity of wills and administers
the estates of people who die without wills. He can also termi-
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darien answerbook • 15
nate parental rights, approve adoptions, act on a minor’s estate,
approve guardians for handicapped people, and grant name
changes.
The last soley Darien probate judge was John B. Rearden, Jr.
Who is in charge of Darien’s coastline?
The nine-member Advisory Commission on Coastal Waters
oversees all town projects affecting Darien’s five harbors and
16.5 miles of coastline.
What does the harbor master do?
Harbor Master Tom Bell oversees Darien’s harbors and coves,
home to more than 300 light craft during the boating season,
not including the large numbers of visiting sailboats and power
boats. His office also handles applications for mooring spaces in
Darien waters. Call 203-655-9536 or 203-253-9519. The wait-
ing list is posted on the bulletin board at town hall and online at
darienct.gov. Click on Town Services and then Harbor Master.
Mr. Bell succeeded longtime Harbor Master Bob Price last
summer.
What does the Housing Authority do?
The Darien Housing Authority, in conjunction with the
Connecticut Department of Economic and Community
Development, oversees the management of Darien’s two public
housing projects. The Allen-O’Neill Homes is a moderate rental
family housing project; Old Town Hall Houses is a low-income
project for senior citizens. The Housing Authority also admin-
isters the waiting list for Clock Hill Homes on Leroy Avenue, a
moderate-income condominium development.
The housing authority’s office is in Room B1 of town
hall. For information, call 203-655-1078 or e-mail
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16 • darien answerbook Town Government
darienhousingkm@yahoo.com. Hours are Monday through
Friday from 9 to 4.
What is the Affordable Housing Advisory Commission?
This commission advises the Board of Selectmen on develop-
ing an affordable housing plan for the town. The nine members
are charged with assessing housing needs, considering zoning
issues, researching nonpofit and for-profit developers, and
developing a plan that includes targets and a budget. An afford-
able housing plan approved in August 2009 is on view at the
town’s Web site. Last year Darien was granted a four-year mora-
torium on meeting affordable housing law requirements.
What does the building department do?
The building department oversees all building activity in
Darien. It issues permits and makes inspections. From the build-
ing department you can obtain surveys and plot plans, permits
issued by address, certificates of occupancy, certificates of
compliance, construction plans for permits issued after 1960,
and a list of current construction. Permit fees and details are on
the town Web site, darienct.gov.
Charles A. Saverine is Darien’s building official. The depart-
ment’s office, in Room 212 of town hall, is open from 8:30 to
4:30. Inspectors are in the office from 8:30 to 10, 1 to 2, and
4 to 4:30 to answer questions and take calls. Inspections are
conducted from 10 to noon and 2 to 4 on weekdays. Call 203-
656-7347, fax 203-656-7385.
What does the finance department do?
Darien’s finance department is responsible for accounts pay-
able, payroll, pension administration, benefit administration,
and debt measurement. The department also works with the
town treasurer on cash management and investing town funds.
The department is headed by Kathleen Clarke Buch, the
finance director. As chief fiscal officer in Darien, the finance
director is responsible for accounting for all town funds as well
as maintaining the financial records and preparing financial
reports. The department provides links to this data at the town’s
Web site.
The department’s office, in Room 201 of Town Hall, is open
8:30 to 4:30. Ms. Clarke can be reached at 203-656-7334 or
kbuch@darienct.gov.
What are the responsibilities of the planning and zon-
ing department?
The planning and zoning department serves the Planning
and Zoning Commission, the Zoning Board of Appeals, the
Environmental Protection Commission and the Architectural
Review Board. The office, in Room 211 at Town Hall, is open
8:30 to 4:30. The phone number is 203-656-7351.
The office is staffed by Jeremy Ginsberg, director; David
Keating, assistant director/zoning enforcement officer; Robert
(Woody) Woodside, code compliance officer; Richard Jacobson,
environmental protection officer; and Andrea M. Sangrey, man-
ager, Community Development Services.
A zoning map of the town is on the town Web site, darienct.
gov. Click on Town Services. There are also links to zoning
and subdivision regulations as well as application and permit
forms.
What are legal notices? Where can I read them?
Legal notices are notifications concerning meetings and
actions of local commissions and boards. In addition, other
important town government information such as proposed bud-
gets, town ordinances and invitations to bid on projects or sell
the town services appear in legal notices. They may be found in
February 17, 2011
the town clerk’s office at town hall. Many are published in The
Darien Times.
How do I know if a meeting is scheduled?
The Freedom of Information Act requires that all town
commission and board meetings be public. The schedule for
a board’s regular meetings must be filed each year with the
town clerk. Special meetings may be called up to 24 hours
in advance. Emergency meetings may be held without notice;
however, the board must file its minutes — including the reason
for the emergency — at the town clerk’s office within 72 hours
of the meeting. Meetings are posted in the town clerk’s office,
Town Hall. Meeting schedules can also be found at the town’s
Web site.
The Times publishes a list of upcoming meetings known at
press time.
Can a commission or board meet privately?
Generally, all meetings involving a quorum of commission
or board members (three members of a five-person board, four
of a six-member board) must be open to the public. However,
Connecticut statutes allow a commission to close a meeting to
the public if it is discussing personnel matters, litigation strategy
or contract negotiations.
To close a meeting and enter into “executive session,” the
board must take a vote and the meeting’s closure must be sup-
ported by two-thirds of those present and voting. The commis-
sion cannot take any action while in an executive session. It
must return to open session before voting on any items.
What can I do if I think a commission held an illegal
private meeting?
You may file a complaint with the state Freedom of Information
office (860-566-5682), 18-20 Trinity Street, Hartford, 06106.
What state House District are we in?
Darien is in the 141st Assembly District (Darien and
Rowayton). Our state representative is Terrie Wood, a
Republican elected in November 2008 and re-elected last fall.
She serves on the House appropriations, education and environ-
ment committees. She can be reached at 800-842-1423. Her
Web page is repterriewood.com.
What state Senate District are we in?
Darien is in two districts, the 25th and 27th.
Representing northern Darien in the 25th is Democrat Bob
Duff, re-elected in November 2010 to his fourth term. The
Democrat is an assistant majority leader. Write him at Legislative
Office Building, Room 2400, Hartford, CT 06106-1591. Call
800-842-1420 or 203-840-1333. E-mail: Duff@senatedems.
ct.gov. Web page: senatedems.ct.gov/duff.html. Senator Duff
schedules local office hours in Darien. Watch The Darien Times
for details.
Representing southern Darien (and Stamford) in the 27th
district was Democrat Andrew McDonald, but he has stepped
down to become general counsel to the new govenor, Dannel
Malloy. A special election was to be held on Feb. 22, with
Republican Bob Kolenberg, and Democrat Carlo Leone, both
from Stamford, vying for this seat.
Who is our U.S. representative?
Darien is in the 4th Congressional District and is represented
by Jim Himes, a Democrat, re-elected last fall to his second
term. His local office is at 888 Washington Blvd., Stamford
06901-2927. Local phone numbers are 203-310-7711; fax 203-
210-7703.
February 17, 2011 Town Government darien answerbook • 17

In Washington, he is at 214 Cannon HOB, Washington, DC provides extensive information about Connecticut and its gov-
20515; 202-225-5541, fax 202-225-9629; Web site: himes. ernment. It is available online at the secretary of the state’s Web
house.gov. site at sots.state.ct.us.

Who are Connecticut’s senators?
New Senator Richard Blumethal joins veteran Senator
Joseph Lieberman in representing the state in the nation’s
capital.
Senator Blumenthal, a Democrat, may be reached at 30 Lewis
Street, Suite 101, Hartford, CT 06103, 860-258-6940, or G55
Dirksen Senate Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20510, 202-224-
2823; blumenthal@.senate.gov/contact. Web site: blumethal.
senate.gov.
Senator Lieberman, an Independent who caucuses with the
Democrats, may be reached at 706 Hart Senate Office Bldg.,
Washington, DC 20510, 202-224-4041. His Hartford office is
at One Constitution Plaza, 7th Floor, Hartford, CT 06103, 800-
225-5605, fax: 860-549-8478; Senator_Lieberman@Lieberman.
senate.gov. Web site: lieberman.senate.gov. He has announced
that he will not seek re-election in 2012.
How can I contact the governor?
Gov. Dannel Malloy, a Democrat and former Stamford
mayor, was elected to his first term last fall. He may be reached
at State Capitol, 210 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, 06106, 800-406-
1527, 866-712-6998 or 860-566-4840. Web site: ct.gov/malloy.
Where can I find out more about the state?
The State Register & Manual, known as the Blue Book,
Is there an Internet version of the State Register and
Manuel?
Yes, and the helpful thing about the Internet version at ct.gov/
sots are the incorporation of links to other useful Web sites.
As mentioned, the manuel known as the “Blue Book” is the
kind of publication you might expect from the “official record
keeper” for the State of Connecticut — “a treasure house of
factual information. The Secretary of the State’s Office is justi-
fiably proud of this publication...” That office has been in the
information business for over 350 years and views the Internet
as an opportunity to enhance our ability to provide information
about the state to the broadest possible audience.”
The book, first published in 1785, shares stories about the
state’s history and biographical information on officials serving
in Hartford and Washington and records of the most current and
past elections results. There sections on state legislators and the
state judicial branch.
Section VII is devoted to each of the 169 town, city and
borough in the state with lots of data on their history, munici-
pal leaders and grand lists, taxes and more. Did you know
that Darien was the 122nd town established in the state? The
manuel confirms this, noting that Darien was incorporated in
May 1820.

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18 • darien answerbook Town Officials February 17, 2011

Board of Selectmen
First Selectman David M. Campbell (R) 27 Shipway Road 203-655-7144
Selectman David F. Bayne (D) 5 Windsor Road 203-656-3311
Selectman Gerald A. Nielsen Jr. (R) 33 Rocation Road 203-655-6145
Selectman Jayme J. Stevenson (R) 65 St. Nicholas Road 203-656-1616
Selectman Callie Anne Sullivan (D) 118 Five Mile River Road 203-662-1133

Board of Education
Kimberly P. Westcott. ch (R) westcott@optonline.net 203-655-7447
Amy M. Bell (R) AMBell655@aol.com 203-656-9636
Elizabeth A. Hagerty-Ross (R) ehr1226@aol.com 203-656-4055
Susan T. Perticone (R) stperticone@optonline.net 203-656-3537
James M. Plutte (D) Plutte@optonline.net 203-662-9463
George A. Reilly (D) greilly@rucciburnham.com 203-655-3738
Clara C. Sartori (R) CCSandDJS@aolc.om 203-655-6506
Heather L. Shea (D) bhshea@optonline.net 203-656-0347
Morgan B. Whittier (R) Mbw3107@optonline.net 203-655-1877

Board of Finance
Elizabeth Smith Mao, ch (R) lizmao@gmail.com 203-656-2560
Martha A. Banks (D) Martha.banks.bof@gmail.com 203-655-8561
Lorene E. Bora (R) lbora@optonline.net 203-656-2090
Joseph C. Duwan (R) 116 Nearwater Lane 203-219-8406
Gwen M. Mogenson (D) hmogen@aol.com 203-656-1799
Murry K. Stegelmann, (R) DarienMurry@aol.com 203-324-4962
Jon E. Zagrodzky (R) jezagrodzky@gmail.com 203-662-0612

Planning & Zoning

Frederick B. Conze, ch (R) 24 Royle Road 203-655-4818
Susan R. Cameron (R) 42 Hoyt Street 203-325-8194
M. Reese Hutchison III (R) 70 Hecker Avenue 203-544-0672
Vickie Hanna Riccardo (D) 33 Red Rose Circle 203-662-0123
Joseph H. Spain (R) 126 Leroy Avenue 203-655-1264
Eric J. Voigt (D) 61 Middlesex Road 203-588-1078

Board of Assessment Appeals

Richard P. Dolcetti, ch (R) 4 Chester Road 203-969-7788
Kevin Patrick O’Connor (D) 2 Chester Road 203-325-2911
Christopher Squire Peters (R) 218 Old Kings Highway North 203-655-4745

Other officials
Administrative Officer Karl Kilduff kkilduff@darienct.gov 203-656-7333
Animal Control Officer Chip Stahl 25 Heckler Avenue 203-656-8686
Assessor Anthony Homicki ahomicki@darienct.gov 203-656-7310
Building Official Charles Saverine csaverine@darienct.gov 203-656-7347
Finance Director Kathleen Clarke Buch kbuch@darienct.gov 203-656-7334
Fire Marshal Robert Buch bbuch@darienct.gov 203-656-7345
Harbor Master Tom Bell darienharbor@darienct.gov 203-655-9240
Health Director David A. Knauf dknauf@darienct.gov 203-656-7320
Housing Authority Executive Director Kathryn Molgano darienhousingkm@yahoo.com 203-656-0866
Parks & Recreation Director Susan Swiatek sswiatek@darienct.gov 203-656-7325
Planning & Zoning Director Jeremy Ginsberg jginsberg@darienct.gov 203-656-7351
Police Chief Duane J. Lovello dlovello@darienct.gov 203-662-5311
Probate Court Judge Michael Murray (R) 2 Renshaw Road 203-656-7342
Public Works Director Robert Steeger rsteeger@darienct.gov 203-656-7346
Registrar of Voters Thomas Dunn (D) vregistrar@darienct.gov 203-656-7319
Registrar of Voters Donald Paul Smith (R) vregistrar@darienct.gov 203-656-7301
Senior Center Director Elizabeth Paris 203-655-1705
Social Services Director Olive Hauser ohauser@darienct.gov 203-656-7328
Supt. of Schools Dr, Steohen Falcone sfalcone@darienps.org 203-656-7412
Tax Collector Robert Locke blocke@darienct.gov 203-656-7314
Town Clerk Donna Rajczewski drajczewski@darienct.gov 203-656-7307
Town Treasurer Joan D. Hendrickson jhendrickson@darienct.gov 203-656-7336
Tree Warden Michael A. Cotta 203-866-8614
Youth Director Alicia Sillars asillars@darienct.gov 203-656-7326
Zoning Enforcement Officer David Keating dkeating@darienct.gov 203-656-7351
February 17, 2011 Schools darien answerbook • 19

What does the Board of Education do?
Darien’s Board of Education (whose members are listed
under Town Officials) proposes a budget to run the schools,
oversees spending, sets policies and rules, hires the superin-
tendent, approves administrators, adopts books and courses,
negotiates staff contracts, and hears citizen appeals.
The board generally meets the second and fourth Tuesday of
the month at 7:30 p.m. in the meeting room in the administra-
tion’s 2 Renshaw Road building, unless otherwise noted. The
board’s meeting schedule and agendas are posted on the district
Web site: darienps.org.
“Schools exist for children,” declares the Board of Education
at the public schools’ Web site: darienps.org. “The Board of
Education strives to create and sustain a public school system
for our community capable of developing, to the upmost, the
potential of all children entrusted to it.”
The board’s goals have included promoting instructional chal-
lenge, maximizing learning of all students, conducting ongoing
assessment of major programs and organizational initiatives
that support the improvement of education, advancing learning
through technology, strengthening district management opera-
tions, and maintaining school facilities.
Where is the school district office?
The Darien School District administrative offices are at 2
Renshaw Road, Darien. The offices are open from 8 to 4 each
day. The general phone number is 203-656-7400. Dr. Stephen
Falcone is the superintendent of schools. He may be reached at
203-656-7412 or sfalcone@darienps.org.
Where are Darien’s schools?
Darien High School is at 80 High School Lane. Telephone:
203-655-3981, fax: 203-656-3631. Dan Haron is principal. He
may be reached at dharon@darienps.org. His phone extention
is 2252.
Middlesex Middle School is at 204 Hollow Tree Ridge Road.
Telephone: 203-655-2518, fax: 203-655-1627. Debi Bocanfuso
is principal. She may be reached at dbocanfuso@darienps.org.
Hindley Elementary School is at 10 Nearwater Lane.
Telephone: 203-655-1323, fax: 203-655-7024. Rita M. Ferri,
former assistant principal, is principal, having succeeded Dr.
Anthony Timpanelli. She may be e-mailed at rferri@darienps.
org.
Holmes Elementary School is at 18 Hoyt Street. Telephone:
203-353-4371, fax: 203-359-2533. Geraldine Petrizzi is princi-
pal. She may be e-mailed at gpetrizzi@darienps.org.
Ox Ridge Elementary School is at 395 Mansfield Avenue.
Telephone: 203-655-2579, fax: 203-655-9012. John F. Rechi is
principal. He may be e-mailed at jrechi@darienps.org.
Royle Elementary School is at 133 Mansfield Avenue.
Telephone: 203-655-0044, fax: 655-9920. Keith Margolus, a
former Ox Ridge assistant principal, took over as principal at
Royle on July 1, suceeding Neal J. Gallub who retired after
36 years as a Connecticut educator; 15 with the Darien public
school system. E-mail: kmargolus@darienps.org.
Tokeneke Elementary School is at 7 Old Farm Road.
Telephone: 203-655-9666, fax: 203-655-7084. MaryLee Fisher
is principal. She may be e-mailed at mfisher@darienps.org.
What are the enrollments in each school?
According to the official Oct. 1 enrollment report, enrollments
for the 2010-11 school year are: Darien High School (9th-12th
grades), 1,335; Middlesex Middle School (6th-8th), 1,158; for
elementary schools (prekindergarten-5th grade) Hindley, 572;

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20 • darien answerbook Schools
Holmes, 440; Ox Ridge, 473; Royle, 419; and Tokeneke, 444.
The total was 4,841 students, or 63 more students than in the
previous school year.
According to a Board of Education report, kindergarten
enrollment was 378, or 26 fewer students than last year; elemen-
tary school enrollment has reached a plateau of 2,348, middle
school enrollment has as well; and overall the enrollment
continues to increase at a slow pace. The largest classes in the
district are first and seventh grades (420 and 398, respectively)
and the smallest is 11th grade (316).
Historical data provided by the Board of Education on its Web
site shows a fluctuating enrollment over the last six decades.
There were 2,825 students enrolled in the district in 1951 rising
steadily to 5,156 in 1967. Enrollment stayed over 5,000 from
1963 to 1974, dropping steadily to 2,643 in 1990 before begin-
ning a steady ascent to the present.
How big are the classes in Darien schools?
Guidelines for elementary class sizes are: K-1 20 to 22 stu-
dents with a maximum of 23; 2-3, 21 to 24 students with a maxi-
mum of 25; 4-5, 22 to 25 students with a maximum of 26.
What are the hours of operation at each school?
Hindley, Holmes, Royle and Tokeneke Elementary schools
are in session from 8:25 to 2:55; Ox Ridge Elementary is in
session from 9 to 3:30. Class is in session at Middlesex Middle
School from 7:55 to 2:22, and at Darien High School from 7:40
to 2:17.
Check the public schools’ Web site (darienps.org) for delayed
opening and early dismissal times.
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February 17, 2011
When are school holidays and vacations?
Remaining on the school calendar for the 2010-11 year: Feb.
21, Presidents Day; Feb. 22-25, recess; April 15, a staff devel-
opment day; April 18-22, recess, including Good Friday. The
last day of school year for students was planned to be June 10
but there have been five snow days this winter as the calendar
entered the second week of February, and this means makeup
days will be added.
The 2011-12 calendar starts with students returning for the
first day of the next school year on Aug. 29. Besides the usual
holidays, vacation periods include Feb. 20-24 and April 16-20.
The school year is scheduled to end for students on June 11.
What standardized tests to students take and in what
grades?
Second- and third-graders take the Otis Lennon School
Ability Test to determine eligibility for the district’s gifted pro-
gram (Idea).
The Connecticut State Mastery Test is a state-mandated,
criteria-reference test. It is given to students in third through
eighth grade.
Eighth-graders take the math portion of the National
Assessment of Educational Progress as well as the writing por-
tion of the Educational Records Bureau Tests. Seventh-graders
also take the writing portion of the test.
Ninth graders take a series of tests from the Educational
Records Bureau.
The Connecticut Academic Performance Test is a state-man-
dated test given to 10th graders.
How did students perform on the Connecticut Mastery
Test?
The Connecticut Mastery Test was given in March 2008.
The percentage of students achieving proficiency level or above
are as follows:
Third grade: math, 80.7%; reading, 78.7%; writing, 85.3%.
Fourth grade: math, 85%; reading, 88.3%; writing, 87.6%.
Fifth grade: math, 88.8%; reading, 89.6%; writing, 91%; sci-
ence: 89.1%.
Sixth grade: math, 93.8%; reading, 93.5%; writing, 90.6%.
Seventh grade: math, 89.6%; reading, 94%; writing, 90.9%.
Eighth grade: math, 93.8%; reading, 92.1%; writing, 95.2%;
science: 87%.
More in-depth information, including comparisons to other
school districts, is available online at darienps.org. Click on
Board of Education and then “reports.”
What about the CAPT scores?
Tenth graders took the Connecticut Academic Performance
Test in March 2010. The percentage of students scoring at or
above state goal is as follows: math 80.4%, science 75.7%,
reading 78.5%, and writing 89%. The overall composite score
for the four tests was 333.7 out of a possible 400.
More in-depth information, including comparisons to other
districts, is available online at darienps.org. Click on Board of
Education and then “reports.”
What are the mean SAT scores for seniors?
The Class of 2010 at DHS achieved the following mean
scores on the SAT: 611 in math, 596 in writing and 573 in read-
ing for a total of 1,780 out of a possible 2,400. The total mean
score for 10 Fairfield County suburban towns was 1,747 (589
math, 586 writing, 572 reading).
More in-depth information, including comparisons to other
districts, is available online at darienps.org. Click on Board of
Education and then “reports.”
February 17, 2011 Schools
How many students take AP courses?
Enrollment in AP courses at Darien High School continues to
increase. From 2001 to 2010, this increase surged over 150%.
In 2009-10, 530 students were enrolled, 517 in 2008-09, in
2007-08, 376, and in 2007-08, 429. The most popular were
Environmental Sciences, U.S. History, Calculus, Government/
Politics U.S., European History, Chemistry, English Literature/
Composition, and Statistics.
In the last round of AP exams, the percentage of Darien stu-
dents who earned scores of 3 or higher (on a scale of 1 to 5) was
90%. The percentage of students who earned scores of 5 was
45% — the highest percentage in Darien High School history.
Any other academic honors of note?
The DHS Class of 2010 had 19 students recognized by the
National Merit Scholarship program. One Darien student at
King Low Heywood Thomas was a National Merit Scholarship
winner.
The DHS chapter of the National Honor Society had 44
members.
The DHS math team reached the regionals for the second time
in four years and finished second in the state.
The DHS Class of 2009 had three finalists in the National
Merit Scholarship competition and 25 commended scholars.
Two Darienites who are Greens Farms Academy students were
named National Merit finalists. One DHS student was named a
semifinalist and 18 received the commended honor.
What percentage of students go on to college?
The latest percentage, 89, showed a slight dip. In 2008, 92%
of seniors had planned to go on to higher education and in 2007,
it was 90%.
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darien answerbook • 21
How do I register a child for school?
To attend kindergarten, children must be five years old by Jan.
1. Registration is at the elementary schools on designated days
in late January and early February. Parents who do not receive
a registration packet in the mail should call the secretary of the
school their child will attend. Parents must bring their child’s
birth certificate, immunization record, Social Security number,
and proof or residency (parent’s driver’s license, for example).
For older children, call the school they will attend and speak
to the secretary.
There is also information on the school district Web site. Visit
darienps.org and follow the links.
What information do schools need to register a trans-
ferring student?
Transfer students will need proof of residency, a birth certifi-
cate, immunization records, school transcripts, and a physical
exam.
What testing is given to preschool children?
The school district does not conduct routine testing of pre-
school children. However, if a child is referred by a parent or
nursery school, they will be tested by a member of the school
district’s special education department.
What sports are offered at the high school?
During the school year, Darien fields 64 athletic teams in 32
sports, including 33 at the varsity level, 20 at the JV level, and
11 freshman teams. According to the district, more than 70% of
students participate in at least one sport each year.
Fall: Boys: football (F, JV, V), soccer (F, JV, V), cross country
(JV, V). Girls: cheerleading (V), field hockey (F, JV, V), soccer
DARIEN PEDIATRICS ASSOCIATES
Pediatric & Young Adult Medicine
106 Noroton Avenue
Darien, CT 06820
(203) 655-9741
www.darienpediatrics.com
Michael N. Suchenski, M.D.
George V. Tsimoyianis, M.D.
John M. Dubaz, M.D.
Surekha Shenoy, M.D.
Dr. Tsimoyianis is certified in Adolescent & Young Adult
Medicine specializing in the care of patients ages 13-25 years.
Affiliated with Greenwich & Stamford Hospitals
Multiple insurance plans are accepted including
Americhoice, please call our office for further details.
22 • darien answerbook Schools
(F, JV, V), cross country (JV, V), volleyball (F, JV, V), swim-
ming (V).
Winter: Boys: basketball (F, JV, V), indoor track (V), swim-
ming (V), wrestling (JV, V), ice hockey (JV, V). Girls: basket-
ball (F, JV, V), cheerleading (V), indoor track (V), ice hockey
(V), gymnastics (V). Coed: squash (V), skiing (V).
Spring: Boys: baseball (F, JV, V), track (V), tennis (JV, V),
golf (JV, V), lacrosse (F, JV, V), volleyball (JV, V). Girls: soft-
ball (F, JV, V), track V), tennis (JV, V), golf (JV, V), lacrosse (F,
JV, V). Coed: sailing (V).
The school colors are blue and white and the teams are known
as the Blue Wave.
What extracurricular activities are offered?
High school clubs and activities, which are subject to change
based on student interest, include: A Capella, Art Club; Athletic
Training Program; Band; Blue Wave News/Video Production
Club; Buddy System; BuildOn; China Cares Club; Community
Council; Composers Club; Computer Club; Crew Club; Culture
Club; Current (literary magazine); Dance Team; Dance,
Dance, Revolution Club; Darianus (yearbook); Darien Animal
Welfare Group; Debate Team; Dodgeball Club; Environmental
Awareness Club; Film Club; Fishing Club; French Club; Free
Thinkers Club; Future Problem Solvers; Gay Straight Alliance;
Guitar Club; Invisible Children & Y.O.U.; JETS; Kids Giving
Back; Latin Club; Math Team; Model U. N. Club; “Names”
Program; National Honor Society; NEIRAD (school newspa-
per); Nutmeg Express; Orchestra; Photography Club; Quidditch
Club; Robotics Club; Rugby; Sailing Club; Saint Luke’s
Lifeworks; Ski and Snowboarding Club; Spanish Club; Squash
Club; Stage Crew; Student Life; Student Political Action
Committee; Technology Club; Teen PeaceWorks; Theatre 308;
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February 17, 2011
Tri-M; Tudor Singers; Ukelele Club; Ultimate Frisbee; Weekend
Alternatives; Writing Center.
Are there any after-school programs?
For the lower grades, after-school and vacation programs
are offered by the Darien Nature Center (203-655-7459) and
Darien YMCA (203-655-8228, ext. 331). The Y offers trans-
portation from the schools to the Y.
How can I learn if school is canceled or delayed?
The school district says it will make every effort to decide by
5:30 a.m. if school is canceled or delayed. Parents may check
darienps.org, darientimes.com or listen to any of the follow-
ing radio stations for details: WEBE/108FM, STAR/99.9FM,
WICC/600 AM, WLAD/800AM, WCBS/880AM, WDAQ/
98.3FM, WGCH/1490AM, WNLK/1350AM, WEFX/95.9FM,
WSTC/1400AM, WKHL/96.7FM, and WTIC/1080/AM and
96.5FM; Cablevision 12; WTNH/Channel 8; Channel 3; WVIT/
Channel 30; WNBC/Channel 4.
For e-mail notification, register at ctweather.com.
If school is delayed, each school’s start time will be pushed
back 90 minutes. Early dismissal decisions are made by 9:30
a.m.
What is the Ed Alert program?
This is an emergency notification system that sends e-mails
and text messages to parents and staff about urgent informa-
tion within the schools such as emergency closings and delays,
police notification about suspicious activity in the community,
and other matters pertaining to immediate student welfare.
This is an opt-in program, meaning you must sign up for it.
Visit online at darienps.org and click on Ed Alert.
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February 17, 2011 Schools
What is the current school budget?
The 2010-11 budget totals $71.5 million, up $2.9 million or
4.1% from the previous year.
How much does Darien spend per pupil?
Darien’s estimated per pupil expenditure is $14,760, accord-
ing to the State Board of Education’s Bureau of Grants
Management’s March 2010 report. Estimated per pupil
costs in area towns: Greenwich, $17,667; Weston, $17,060;
New Canaan, $16,605; Westport, $16,325; Wilton, $15,263;
Ridgefield, $13,147.
What is the salary range for teachers?
Salaries for the last school year ranged from a low of $44,585
(for a bachelor’s degree) to a high of $102,833 (doctorate’s
degree) depending on education and years of experience.
What is the salary range for a school principal?
According to the administrators’ contract for 2009-10, princi-
pal salaries ranged from $161,055 to $178,038.
What is the superintendent’s salary?
Dr. Stephen Falcone is superintendent of Darien schools. He
can be reached at 203-656-7412 or sfalcone@darienps.org.
His salary remains at $167,763. He and other school adminis-
trators took a pay freeze for the past school year.
What is special education?
Special education offers services for physically handicapped
and learning disabled students.
How can I tell if my child needs special education?
Parents of children three to five years old who suspect their
child may have a disability should call the district and speak to
the preschool coordinator.
For children already in school, parents should call the
school guidance counselor to discuss whether their child may
need special education. Parents who disagree with a school’s
determination may speak with Robin Lawler Pavia, director
of special education and student services, at 203-656-7451 or
rpavia@darienps.org.
Are there other special education resources?
SPED*NET is the Special Education Network of New
Canaan, an organization whose mission is to educate the pub-
lic on special education and disability-related issues. It plans
monthly forums for discussing special education and sec-
tion 504 issues. It is an independent nonprofit organization.
Information is available on the Web site spednet.org.
The Connecticut Birth to Three System is a state program
that helps families meet the developmental and health-related
needs of their infants and toddlers who have delays or disabili-
ties. For information, call the Child Development Infoline at
1-800-505-7000 or visit online at birth23.org.
Is there a program for gifted children?
The IDEA (Interesting Dimensions Extend Abilities)
Program is offered to intellectually gifted children in first
through ninth grade. Elementary-level students meet for 90 min-
utes a week in small groups. Middle and high school students
participate as their class schedules permit. Students may be
referred to the program by school staff or teachers. A selection
committee reviews all nominations to identify students who fit
the program criteria. Check the schools’ Web site for link.
darien answerbook • 23
What’s the Early Learning Program?
This program is described as “a reverse mainstream preschool
where children with special needs and children with typically
developing skills learn from each other in a nuturing environ-
ment.” ELP, a part of the public school system since 1996,
has classrooms at Hindley and Tokeneke elementary schools.
Registration for summer school can be done online via a link at
the public schools’ Web site.
Is there a PTO?
Each of Darien’s schools has an active Parent-Teacher
Organization. Call the individual school to find out who the
officers are.
In addition, there is the Council of Darien School Parents,
which functions as an umbrella organization for all the school
PTOs. Representatives from each PTO meet monthly to share
news from each school. Its purpose is to promote understanding
and communication among parents, the schools and the school
board. The organization meets the first Thursday morning each
month during the school year. Its old board/new board coffee is
usually set in the late spring in the Board of Education meeting
room at the town hall.
What is A Better Chance?
A Better Chance, also known as ABC, is a national pro-
gram that provides academically talented minority students
with access to good schools, both private and public, that they
otherwise could not attend. Students live with resident directors
in a house on Brookside Road while attending Darien High
School during the week. On two weekends each month, the
students spend time with host families. For information, visit
abcdarien.com. The Web site includes information on Darien
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 24 • darien answerbook Schools February 17, 2011

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There are many nursery schools in town, with applications
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given to every piece.Center’s preschool programs, 120 Brookside
Avenue, 203-655-7459, with morning and afternoon sessions
children attend one day a week.
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Holly Pond School on the Darien YMCA campus, 2420 Post
����������������� Road, 203-655-8228, offers morning and afternoon programs
for members.
������������������ � First Congregational Church Nursery School, 14 Brookside
���������������������� Road, 203-655-3150/uccdarien.org, with morning programs.
����������������� Methodist Family Center Preschool, 345 Middlesex Road,
�������������������������������������� 203-655-7407, with morning and afternoon programs. E-mail:
mfcppreschool@aol.com. Web site: umcdarien.org.
Noroton Presbyterian Nursery School, 2011 Post Road,
203-655-3223, offers morning programs with an option for an
extended day as well as a transitional pre-K program for four-
and five-year-olds; preference is given to church members. Web
site: npns.org.
��������������������������������������������� Our Gang Nursery School, 26 East Lane, 203-655-3810,
with programs from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., including a regular
����������������������� kindergarten program.
������������������� ������������������� St. John Church of Darien Preschool, 1986 Post Road, 203-
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offers morning and afternoon programs.
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���������������� Road, 203-655-6053, offers morning and afternoon programs
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four days a week, preference given to church members.
YWCA Darien/Norwalk Toddler Time, 49 Old Kings
Highway North, 203-655-2535, offers a drop off enrichment
������������������ � program for two-year-olds. Web site: ywcadariennorwalk.org.
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Pear Tree Point School (203-655-0030/ptpschool.org) 90
Pear Tree Point Road, is Darien’s only private school, serving
pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. Open houses for prospec-
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February 17, 2011 Schools darien answerbook • 25

Where can I take college courses nearby?

Norwalk Community College (203-857-7060) offers a
degree program. Offering graduate and undergraduate courses
are the University of Connecticut in Stamford (203-251-
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The Visual Arts Studio at the Darien Arts Center (203- ������������������������������������������������
655-8683/arts.darien.org) at 2 Renshaw Road����offers
�����classes
������ for�� ����� �������������������������������������������������������
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children and adults in painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed �����������������������������������������
media.
The Darien Community Association Inc., at 274 Middlesex �������������������������������������
Road, offers courses in drawing and painting. Call 203-655- �������������������������������������������
9050 or visit dariendca.org. ���������������������������������������������
Darien Continuing Education offers drawing, painting, and
pottery classes. Visit dariencontinuinged.com for the schedule. �������������������������������������������
Paint Studio at the YWCA Darien/Norwalk at 49 Old Kings ������������������������������������������
Highway (203-655-2535) offers classes for students ages four
through adults and seniors. Children’s camp takes place during
summers and school vacation weeks. Check ywcadariennor- ������������������������������
walk.org. �������������������������������
The Silvermine Guild School of Art (203-966-6668/silver-
mineart.org) in New Canaan offers many types of classes for
all ages.

Are there any dance schools?

Ballroom Magic at 25-13 Old Kings Highway (203-831-
9382/ballroommagic.net) offers classes in ballroom dancing
— swing, foxtrot, rumba, cha cha, mambo, waltz, etc. — for ����� ������� ��������
adults. There are also classes in ballroom dancing and etiquette
for children.
The Darien Dance Center offers more than 70 dance classes
and workshops for all ages, toddlers through adults. Choose
from modern, ballet, hip hop, jazz, or tap. Call director Bonnie
Gombos at 203-655-8683 or visit arts.darien.org.
Darien Continuing Education offers a number of dance
classes. Visit dariencontinuinged.com for the schedule. ������� ������ �������
The YWCA Darien/Norwalk, 49 Old Kings Highway North,
203-655-2535, is home to the Darien School of Dance (203-
912-4804; e-mail: dariendance@optimum.net) offering ballet ��������������������������������������������
classes beginning with mommy and me through adults with ������������������������������������������
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Ed. Call 203-656-7466 or e-mail: egomez@darienps.org.
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26 • darien answerbook Public Services February 17, 2011

Where is the library and when is it open? rowed for 21 days. Express books may be borrowed for seven
The Darien Library (203-655-1234 or 203-669-5239) at days. The library also circulates Express DVDs for one night.
1441 Boston Post Road, is open Mondays through Thursdays All other DVDs may be checked out for seven days. Most mate-
from 9 to 9, Fridays from 9 to 6, Saturdays from 9 to 5, and rials may be renewed at the library, by phone, through the online
Sundays from 1 to 5. The library is closed on major holidays. catalog or by e-mailing circ@darienlibrary.org.
The library maintains an extensive Web site at darienlibrary.
org. The library director is Louise Berry, who may be reached What special services does the library offer?
at lberry@darienlibrary.org. The library offers an array of special services that runs the
gamut from cultural programs for the entire community to indi-
How may I get a library card? vidual tutoring sessions on research techniques and technology.
At the library, Darien residents will be issued a card immedi- Upcoming library events, new services, and new materials are
ately. You may also apply for a card online at darienlibrary.org. previewed in “Connections,” the library’s monthly eNewslet-
Your library card is accepted for borrowing materials at any of ter, which consists of several relevant and informative blogs
Connecticut’s 163 libraries, including Darien Library. that are updated frequently. Audio podcasts and video webcasts
from some of the library’s programs can also be found on the
What holdings does the library offer? Web site.
Darien Library has more than 155,000 books and 6,600 books- • IM Reference allows patrons to use instant messaging to
on-CD and downloadable audio books. The library subscribes to ask a reference question in a live online chat session using
more than 340 newspapers, magazines, and periodicals. There AIM, Yahoo!, or MSN. Contact IM Reference at Darien
are 64 PCs and 10 circulating laptops available for member use. Library on AIM or Yahoo! at DeweyDarien, or on MSN at
There are 13,500 DVDs, including many classic films and an deweydarien@hotmail.com.
extensive foreign film collection, downloadable and pre-loaded • Text Reference allows patrons to text reference questions
audio books, MP3 players, wireless network cards, digital cam- from a mobile phone to 203-665-8398.
eras, GPS devices, USB drives, video camcorders, and Kill A • The Technology Education Series offers classes for adults
Watt meters (that measure the energy consumption of electrical on popular software packages such as Microsoft Word, Excel,
appliances) that may be checked out. and Photoshop Elements.
Hennen's American Public Library Rating ranks Darien • The Small Office/Home Office (SoHo) Office Center on
Library as one of the top 10 public libraries in the country for the library's lower level offers high-capacity photocopying,
its size. laminating, banner printing, and photo printing.
• The library has a Bloomberg Terminal, which is located
How long can I keep a library book? in the Cheswick Finance Library on the second floor. The
Most items, including adult and children’s books, may be bor- Bloomberg Professional service is the interactive, financial
information network that is the core business for Bloomberg, a
leading information service for global financial markets.
� ������������� ��������� • The library has seven staff members who serve as notary
�� ������������� ��������� ���������� publics and are available to notarize documents for library
patrons free of charge.
���������� ��� ������������������
• By appointment, the library’s technology staff and/or the
������� �� ������ �������� reference librarians are available for one-on-one sessions for
research assistance using the library’s online resources and Web
������� �������������� site, setting up e-mail accounts, finding information online, or
� ������ ���� other specialized informational technology needs.
� ����������� • An Enhanced-Vision Workstation is available at the
library. Equipped to meet a wide range of vision impairments,
���������
the workstation consists of a Dell Optiplex 760 computer, a 24-
� ������������� inch monitor, a Topaz magnifier with hand and foot controls,
� ��������� stereo speakers and a portable scanner.
� ����� • Throughout the year, Darien Library hosts author events,
� �������� �������� ������� ������ film screenings every Friday night, Wednesday matinees,
including a four-week independent film series and a seven-
� ��������� ���������� week foreign film series, an annual One Book, One Community
� ��������� town-wide reading program, Monday at Seven (a program
� ���������� ���������� for job seekers and networkers), spring and fall book discus-
� ������������ ���������� sion series, an adult summer reading program, storytelling for
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adults, a short story discussion series, a One Page Poetry Circle,
an annual Shakespeare lecture, an annual poetry program, an
� ������ ��������� annual master gardener program, art exhibits and receptions,
� ��������� special individual programs and lectures, booktalking at the
� ���������� Darien Senior Center, and community outreach.
• The library also offers an annual holiday concert.

What are the library’s special activities for children

and teens?
The Darien Library offers storytimes for children who are
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newly born and up to six years old. Special music and move-
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February 17, 2011 Public Services darien answerbook • 27

are welcome to attend book, craft, and interactive programs for

seven-, eight- and nine-year-olds, as well as book discussion
groups, technology classes, and gaming programs for nine to 12
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year olds. Special programs for all ages are offered throughout
the year and have included performances such as storytellers,
puppet shows, musicians, movies, and science exploration.
The Children’s Library includes a technology center for
children and is the first public library in the country to have a
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Microsoft Surface tabletop computer. The Children’s Library
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also hosts special programs for parents. ��������������������������������
Children’s programs include registered storytimes and pro- ���������������������������������
grams, drop-in programs, a summer reading program, partici- ������������������������������������
pation in activities related to the One Book, One Community
town-wide read, a R.E.A.D. program (which partners therapy
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dogs with kids to encourage reading and improve literacy skills), ���������������������������������������
Stories on the Spectrum (customized storytime for families with ������������������������������
children on the autistic spectrum), Dragon Club (a Chinese lan-
guage and culture program), book clubs (children play with and
learn how to use creative Mac programs to make videos, music, �������������������������������
slideshows and more), We’ve Got Game (a weekly gaming pro- ��������������������������������������
gram featuring gaming gadgets like Ninetendo DS, Wii, laptops, �������������������������������������������������
and traditional board games), and a Kids Advisory Board.
The Children’s Library staff provides reader advisory and �������������������������������������������
reference services to children, their families, and educators. Ask ���������������������������������������
staff to help pick books for all occasions and tastes. Visits to all ����������������������������
five elementary schools, the middle school, and Pear Tree Point
School take place each year to discuss new books. Each sum- �����������
mer, over 800 students sign up to participate in the Read-to-Me,
Summer Reading Club, and Teen Summer Reading Programs. ������������������������������
The Teen Lounge is located on the library’s lower level ����������������
and provides teens with popular fiction and non-fiction books, ������������������������������������
magazines, and audiobooks. The space also contains teen-only �������������������������
computers and a flat-panel television for film screenings and
playing video games.
Teen Services programs include author visits, participation �������������������������������
in the One Book, One Community town-wide read, scavenger
hunts, crafts, teen book clubs, Study Sesh (a drop-in program
for homework help), a resume workshop, Chess Teen Titans, �����������������������������������
weekly movies, gallery parties, a graphic novel workshop, �������������������������������������
study nights, a summer reading program, podcasts, a writ-
ers group, videogames and videogame tournaments, an Oral ���������������������������������
History Project (a video project where teens interview longtime
members of the community to record their stories and memo-
ries), a trivia contest, Juniors Helping Seniors (teens helping
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adults learn computer skills), and college prep lectures. Various �������
volunteer opportunities are available to teens, including helping
with technology programs and joining the Teen Advisory Board �������������������������������������
(TAB). Staff visit Middlesex Middle School to talk about books �������������������������������������������
and teen programs to students and teachers.
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Are there employment opportunities for high school �����������������
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students at the library?
The shelver position at the library is for students who are
at least 14 years of age. The library hires shelvers to work
either in the Children’s Room and Teen Room or in the Main
Reading Room. Shelvers sort books alphabetically or numeri-
cally. Once books are sorted, they are shelved in the correct
section. Students receive paid training in job duties specific to
the department in which they work. Hours vary between three
and 10 hours per week.

What art is displayed at the library? ��������������������

The library exhibits artwork in its Art Gallery on the lower
level. Exhibits are the province of the Art Committee of the ����������������������������������������������������������
Darien Library. For information on the submission process, call �������������������������������������������
203-669-5220.
28 • darien answerbook Public Services
Does the library use volunteers?
The library welcomes volunteers. One of the library’s more
popular volunteer programs is Adopt-A-Shelf, in which volun-
teers agree to organize shelves in an area of their choice at least
once a month. For information on this or other opportunities,
call the information desk at 203-669-5236.
Is the library a municipal organization?
The library receives tax money from the town for person-
nel and operating costs. The library is an association library, a
501(c)(3) organization, and donations to the Annual Campaign
fund all books, software, other materials, and programs. For
information on making a donation to the Annual Campaign, call
203-669-5230 or e-mail friends@darienlibrary.org.
Does anyone accept used books?
Darien Book Aid is a nonprofit, volunteer organization that
attempts to build a foundation of peace, understanding and
friendship through the free distribution of books donated to
them. They send books all over the world to Peace Corps vol-
unteers, teachers, libraries, schools, prisons, and hospitals. The
most-requested books are children’s books, classics, English
dictionaries, English readers and grammar books, how-to and
craft books, health, science and math, agriculture and ecology
books, encyclopedias on CD-ROM, and paperback editions of
recent novels. Clean, non-highlighted text books not older than
10 years and National Geographics from the last five years are
also welcome.
Hours are Tuesday 2 to 4, Wednesday and Thursday 9:30 to
noon, Wednesday 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Saturday 10 to noon. For
information, call 203-655-2777 or e-mail bhginc@gmail.com.
The group’s Web site is dba.darien.org. Don’t make any dona-
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February 17, 2011
tions without calling first.
What is the Darien Community Matters Blog?
The Darien Library/Community Matters! is an online, non-
partisan forum for discussion of issues of interest to Darien’s
citizens. Citizens may use the blog to communicate with each
other about local happenings. Visit the blog at darienlibrary.
org/communitymatters.
Participating is simple. To comment on one of the topics,
click the comment button, fill out the form, and click “post.”
Does the town have a social worker?
Olive Hauser (203-656-7328) is the town’s social services
director. Her office can assist people with information on hous-
ing, home care and nursing home placement, financial aid for
home heating, the loan of convalescent equipment, and rides to
doctors and the senior center.
Ms. Hauser is also the municipal agent for the elderly. In
addition to their office in town hall, staff members are available
once a week at the senior center and senior housing. She can be
e-mailed at jmorrison@darienct.gov.
Is there affordable housing?
The Allen-O’Neill Homes is a moderate rental family
housing project that includes 41 homes and 12 apartments on
Noroton Avenue. Clock Hill Homes on LeRoy Avenue is a
moderate-income condominium development. Old Town Hall
Houses is for elderly residents (see the Senior Citizens section).
The Housing Authority (203-655-0866) owns and manages the
Allen-O’Neill Homes and Old Town Hall Houses and manages
the waiting list for Clock Hill Homes.
In addition, Avalon Darien has 45 or so income-restricted
one- and two-bedroom rental apartments on Hollow Tree Ridge
Road as part of its larger complex. Call 203-655-6800 for infor-
mation.
What is Person-to-Person?
Person-to-Person (203-655-0048/p2pdarien.org) offers
emergency services to low-income families in the greater
Stamford area in the form of food, clothing, furniture, and
financial assistance (loans or grants for rent, utilities or security
deposits) as well as eviction mediation. Person-to-Person wel-
comes cash donations and in-kind giving. Donations of seasonal
clothing in good condition are welcome. Bring items on hangers
or in small bags. Items always needed include car seats, baby
and children’s clothing, large-sized clothing, linens, blankets,
towels, dishes, glasses, pots and pans, non-perishable food,
silverware, and small appliances.
Donations are accepted Monday through Friday from 9 to 4,
Thursdays until 6, and most Saturdays during the school year
from 9 to noon. Person-to-Person is at St. Luke’s Parish, 1864
Post Road. The group’s Web site is p2pdarien.org.
Where are burial plots available?
There are two cemeteries in town. Spring Grove (203-655-
0682) is on Hecker Avenue. St. John’s Catholic Cemetery
(203-655-0455) is on Camp Avenue.
Families may arrange for burial plots either through a funeral
director or by calling the cemetery office directly.
There are many cemeteries in neighboring towns.
What funeral homes serve Darien?
Lawrence Funeral Home (203-655-6127/lawrencefuneral-
home.com) at 2119 Post Road is Darien’s only funeral home.
February 17, 2011 Public Services
What is the Community Fund of Darien?
The Community Fund of Darien works with more than 30
area agencies to help people in need in Darien, Norwalk, and
Stamford all year long by providing funding, organizational
guidance, and volunteer support.
The Community Fund of Darien also has a Human Services
Planning Council, which brings together social service profes-
sionals and town leaders to assess needs, evaluate services, and
identify and pursue solutions. Current initiatives include: CARE
Darien, Aging in Place in Darien, and Creating Connections: A
Directory of Mental Health and Support Services.
The office is at 701 Post Road. Executive Director Kiki
Karpen may be reached at 203-655-8775 or kiki.karpen@com
munityfunddarien.org. The Web site is communityfunddarien.
org.
What is Infoline 211?
Infoline 211 is a free community service that is a public/
private partnership between the state and Connecticut United
Ways. It is a single source for information about community
services, referrals to human services, and crisis intervention,
accessible by dialing 211 from anywhere in Connecticut 24/7.
Multilingual call specialists and TDD access is available.
Specialists help callers with such issues as substance abuse,
gambling, domestic violence, suicide prevention, and financial
problems. It also offers information on health care, unemploy-
ment, child care options, housing, and volunteer opportunities.
A searchable database is on the Web site at infoline.org or 211.
org.
What is Family & Children’s Agency?
Family & Children’s Agency, Inc. in Norwalk is a private,
darien answerbook • 29
nonprofit, family service agency, which has been serving the
community since 1942. It offers a wide range of comprehensive
services, including individual, family and addiction counsel-
ing; international and domestic adoption; support services
for seniors through HomeCare Plus; family support services;
youth development and mentoring; and community education
programs. For information, call 203-855-8765 or visit family-
andchildrensagency.org.
What services does the Red Cross provide?
The Darien office of the American Red Cross, Darien/
Stamford chapter, is at 39 LeRoy Avenue. It is staffed Monday
through Thursday from 8:30 to 4:30 and Friday from 8:30 to 3,
but available for Armed Forces Services communications and
disaster emergencies 24 hours a day.
The local Red Cross provides relief to victims of disasters and
help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.
The organization also offers CPR and first aid courses; health
courses such as Managing Stress, Back Injury Prevention, and
Your Heart Matters; disaster preparedness; works with youth
in the Red Cross Action Team; responds to single-family fires;
runs blood drives; teaches a teen babysitting program and
has a corps of volunteers who drive senior citizens to medi-
cal appointments. For information, call 203-655-2586 or visit
ctredcross.org.
What is Family Centers?
Family Centers (203-655-0547/familycenters.org) is a pri-
vate, nonprofit organization offering education and human
services to children, adults and families in Fairfield County. Its
services focus on early childhood education, families in crisis,
healthy aging for senior citizens, workplace resources, and help-
30 • darien answerbook Public Services
ing low-income people and those with long-term mental illness
live independently.
There is an office at 590 Post Road in Darien.
What is the Center for Hope?
The Center for Hope offers individual counseling and sup-
port groups for adults and children facing life-threatening ill-
nesses and bereavement. It also offers community education
programs and programs for caregivers. The Center for Hope, a
division of Family Centers, is at 590 Post Road in Darien. For
information, call 203-655-4693 or visit centerforhope.org.
What is the Beautification Commission?
As its name suggests, the Darien Beautification Commission
is charged with finding ways to maintain and improve the
overall physical appearance of Darien. The commission meets
monthly to review current projects and plan new ones. Projects
under the commission’s purview have included 30 islands along
town roadways, 24 planters along the Post Road, Adopt-A-Spot,
and daffodil plantings.
Is there a community calendar of events?
The Darien Times publishes upcoming events each week
in the Around Times Town column and posts them online at
DarienTimes.com as well. Events are also posted on the town’s
Web site (darienct.gov), at darien.org and the library’s Web site,
too.
Where can I get help with my income taxes?
The Internal Revenue Service can help. For general infor-
mation, call 800-829-1040.
Property Issues
What kind of work requires a building permit?
Most construction work requires a permit from the building
department. This includes internal and external remodeling,
enlarging, additions, changing the size of windows or adding
bay windows, pools, new roofs, erecting a shed, enclosing a
porch, erecting a large tent, installing a gas or wood-burning
stove or fireplace, and new construction. What you need to get
a permit is detailed on the town Web site. Call 203-656-7347 for
specific information.
Do I need an appointment to discuss plans for my
property?
Building inspectors are in the office to answer questions and
take calls Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 10, 1 to 2, and
again from 4 to 4:30. Call 203-656-7347.
Requests for inspections may be made via e-mail to Lisa
Mason at lmason@darienct.gov. For information, visit the
Building Department Web page at darienct.gov.
The Zoning Enforcement Officer has office hours by appoint-
ment only on most days from 9 to 9:45 and 1 to 1:45. Call
203-656-7351.
May I purchase a copy of the Darien zoning regulations?
Planning and Zoning has a copious set of regulations that
cover every regulated issue. It can be very helpful for any
renovation or construction project you may be thinking of from
adding a porch, bay windows, swimming pool, fence, barn, etc.
It can be downloaded from the office Web page at darienct.gov
or you may purchase a copy for $10. A color copy of the zon-
ing map is $25. You may purchase either in the Planning and
February 17, 2011
Seniors and those with moderate incomes can get free help
with their taxes through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
Program, offered Tuesday afternoons and Saturdays during
tax season at the New Canaan Public Library, 151 Main Street.
Simple federal or state returns only. Appointments are required;
call 203-594-5003.
Is there a food bank?
The Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County, Inc. is lower
Fairfield County’s primary hunger-relief organization. It pro-
vides food to about 100 non-profit agencies and programs that
serve low income people in the six-town area through bags of
groceries and congregate meals. These include soup kitchens,
food pantries, child care programs, homeless shelters, senior
centers, domestic violence safe houses, and rehabilitation pro-
grams.
During 2009, the Food Bank supplied 1,631,072 pounds of
food to 177,908 individuals. The Food Bank of Lower Fairfield
County, Inc. originated in 1984 as an agency of the Council of
Churches and Synagogues. In January 2003, the Food Bank
became an independent entity with its own board of directors.
The Food Bank is a Connecticut non-profit corporation that is
exempt from Federal income tax under section 501 (c) (3) of the
Internal Revenue Code.
The Food Bank’s mission is to provide nutritious food to non-
profit organizations that feed the hungry in Darien, Greenwich,
New Canaan, Norwalk, Stamford, and Wilton while seeking
to raise awareness of,and promote action to combat, hunger in
those communities. Visit foodbanklfc.org for details on making
donations, volunteering and more.
Zoning office.
Other helpful documents for sale include: Inland Wetland
and Watercourses Regulations ($4) and Inland Wetlands and
Watercourses Map ($5). You may also purchase the 2006 Town
Plan of Development ($40), Subdivision Regulations ($6), and
a black-and-white zoning map ($5).
Do I need a permit for a fence on my property?
No permits are necessary; however, the maximum allowable
height is four feet in front, six feet on the sides and back of the
property. It does not matter which way the “good side” faces,
but it is recommended that it be faced “good side out.” Although
there are no required setbacks, it is recommended any fence be
placed six to 12 inches inside your property. There are specific
regulations for corner properties. Eight-foot privacy fences are
allowed for special situations.
If you are within 50 feet of wetlands, you must submit an
application to the Environmental Protection Commission.
How soon before a public hearing do I need to notify
my neighbors of my application?
If you have submitted a formal application to the Planning
and Zoning Commission or the Zoning Board of Appeals,
you must notify all owners of property within 100 feet. These
notices must be sent by certified mail 10 to 20 days prior to the
public hearing.
How long does it take to get a zoning permit
reviewed?
The state allows the town 30 days, although the department
February 17, 2011 Property Issues
tries to work in as timely a manner as possible. The length of
time depends primarily on how many applications are submitted.
What requirements are there for swimming pools?
Swimming pools and pool houses are among the most popular
additions to homes in Darien. A pool must meet setback and
coverage requirements, and if it is within 50 feet of a wetland
or watercourse it must be approved by the Environmental
Protection Commission.
In addition, health, zoning, and building permits will be
required.
Is it possible I live in a flood zone?
Because Darien is right along the coastline with a number
of rivers flowing through it, there are a number of flood zones
throughout town. Most susceptible to flooding are the areas
along the coast, the river corridors, and the low-lying areas
through which streams and brooks flow.
The town participates in a FEMA (Federal Emergency
Management Agency) program that stipulates construction
regulations to minimize flood damage to buildings and property.
As a result, all property owners in Darien are eligible to buy
private flood insurance at a subsidized rate.
Past storms have caused significant flooding in town and to
that end, Darien created a Flood Mitigation Committee in 2007
to draw up a comprehensive flood prevention strategy.
How do I know if I live in a flood zone?
A comprehensive map created by FEMA hangs in the Planning
and Zoning office (203-656-7351) at Town Hall. Property own-
ers are welcome to come in and look at the map and determine if
they are in a flood-prone area. Planning and Zoning staff are not
allowed to give that information over the phone since it is up to
each individual to make that determination for themselves.
Will the town check my well to see if the water is safe
to drink?
No, that is the responsibility of the homeowner. The town
recommends using the lab at the Stamford Health Department
(203-977-4399) or a private lab.
If you have a private well that is subject to flooding during
heavy and/or prolonged rainstorms, you may need to disinfect
your well during such events. The town’s health department can
advise you how to do this. Check online at darienct.gov.
Is it likely my well water contains fluoride?
Fluoride, which is tasteless and odorless, occurs naturally
in groundwater. While small amounts are beneficial to dental
health, too much fluoride can adversely affect teeth and bone
development. According to the national Academy of Sciences,
fluoride over 4 milligrams per liter in drinking water is too high,
and in fact should be 1ppm or less. Fluoride concentrations in
Connecticut water tend to be low, but no extensive surveys have
been done and it is possible there are pockets of high fluoride
concentrations. If you are concerned, have your water tested. A
fact sheet on this issue is on the health department’s Web page
at darienct.gov.
How do I take care of my septic system?
You must call a private septic system pumping company. They
will advise you how often to have your septic tank pumped.
The Norwalk River Watershed Initiative offers a simple,
non-technical brochure for homeowners called Septic Care &
Maintenance for the Homeowner. It is available free online at
conservect.org/southwest.htm. Click on the septic care link and
then click on the link for the downloadable format.
darien answerbook • 31
The Darien Health Department offers a Home Buyer’s Guide
for septic systems on its Web page at darienct.gov.
Whom do I call if my neighbor’s septic system is leak-
ing onto my property?
Call the health department at 203-656-7320.
How do I clean up a compact fluorescent light bulb?
Compact fluorescent light bulbs contain small amounts of
mercury and when they break, mercury vapor is released into
the air. For this reason, pregnant women and young children
should stay out of a room where such a light bulb has broken
until several days after it has been cleaned up, according to the
Connecticut Department of Public Health. In fact, everyone
should leave the room for at least 15 minutes right after the bulb
has broken to lower exposure. Do not use a vacuum cleaner to
pick up broken glass and debris. A fact sheet on how to perform
such a cleanup is available under Featured Links at ct.gov/dph.
Is there municipal garbage collection?
No. Residents must contract with a private carter for garbage
collection. There are many that serve Darien.
Can I take care of my garbage myself?
The town maintains a Refuse Disposal Area, also known as
“the dump,” at 126 Ledge Road. It is open Monday through
Saturday from 7 to 2:45. The site is closed on major holidays.
A yearly sticker is required to use the dump. The fee is $110
for residents without garbage collection, $34 for residents with
garbage collection, $55 for those in the tax abatement program,
and $50 for seniors over 65 without garbage collection. Seniors
over 65 with garbage collection get one free dump sticker, addi-
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32 • darien answerbook Property Issues
tional stickers are $34. Stickers are valid July 1 to June 30. For
details, call 203-656-7346 or 203-656-7300.
The dump accepts most household waste and construction
debris. The following items may not be dropped off: hazardous
waste, liquids, paints (empty latex paint cans are OK), asbes-
tos, pathological or medical waste, cylinders, barrels, sealed
containers, propane tanks, or items larger than six inches in
diameter or four feet long.
Refrigeration equipment (anything with Freon in it) may be
disposed of for a $15 fee. Payment in the form of exact cash or
check will be accepted at the scale house. For more information,
call the Darien Department of Public Works at 203-656-7346.
What items do I recycle and where do I take them?
There is a recycling center at the refuse disposal area. Recycle
newspapers, mixed papers (magazines, office paper, mail), cor-
rugated cardboard, glass or metal food and beverage containers,
#1 and #2 plastics, and scrap metal. Place all recyclable items
on the tables in front of the large bins.
There is a waste oil recycling tank near the scale house. The
tank is open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 8 to
10 a.m. Only waste motor oil is accepted. Car batteries may
be recycled and household batteries can be disposed of at the
recycling center.
Where can I get rid of hazardous waste?
Darien participates in a regional household hazardous
waste collection program with neighboring towns, including
Greenwich, Norwalk and Westport. Darien residents may bring
their hazardous waste to any scheduled drop-off day for free.
The next local Household Hazardous Waste Day collection
is on Saturday, June 4, from 9 to 1 at Noroton Heights Railroad
Station. This collection is for residents with such waste only and
not for commercial haulers. For a list of what to bring and what
not to bring, check the Transfer Station Web page at the town’s
Web site or call 203-656-7346.
Also, surrounding towns hold household hazardous waste
collection days for residents. For details, check the public
works’ Web page at darienct.gov.
For more information on disposing of hazardous waste, call
the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection at
203-566-8843.
Is there a place to get rid of my old computer?
Darien has begun a limited computer recycling program at
the transfer station. You must have a valid “dump” sticker or
commercial permit. Persons disposing of acceptable electronics
waste will not be charged. Accepted are computers, monitors,
keyboards, mice, printers, external disc drives and computer
cables. Check the town’s Web site, under Transfer Station, for
items that are not accepted.
Is there a source of free compost or wood chips?
Leaf compost and wood chips are available at the dump for
residents to take. There are piles of both just beyond the scale
house.
Does the town pick up leaves?
From November through early December, the department of
public works collects leaves packed in biodegradable paper
bags from every public street. The leaves are then shipped to a
composting facility.
February 17, 2011
Loose leaves or bags containing lawn clippings, brush or
other materials will not be collected. For information, call 203-
656-7346.
The public works department also picks up Christmas trees in
January. Watch The Times for details.
What is spring cleanup?
Each spring the town picks up household debris placed along
public roads. Specific weeks, usually in March, are set aside.
Watch The Times for information, or call the public works
department (203-656-7346).
Am I allowed to burn anything on my property?
No. The town does not allow the burning of leaves, brush, or
anything else on a person’s property.
What do I need to know about my fuel oil tank?
Due to the heavy clay content of soil in Darien, leaking tanks
are fairly common. The fire marshal’s office suggests you con-
sider replacing your tank if it is more than 15 years old. If it is
a 275-gallon tank, no matter how old it is you should remove it
because they were never approved for in-ground use.
If oil leaks from your tank, it will likely enter wells, brooks,
streams, and/or building foundations and you will have a big
environmental mess that can wind up being very costly.
To replace your home tank, you will need a permit and
inspection from the building department. New tanks can be
installed indoors or above ground. New installations will not be
approved until the old tank is removed or properly abandoned
and accepted by the fire marshal. You will need a permit from
his office to do this.
Do I need a permit to sand blast or power wash my
home?
Because it is dangerous to expose anyone, especially children,
to dust created by the disturbance of lead-based paint, all con-
tractors and property owners must get a permit from the health
department before doing any sand blasting, power sanding
or power washing of buildings or other structures. Of special
concern are buildings built before 1978. In addition, you must
submit a Lead Safe removal plan to the health department for
review and approval. For details, call 203-656-7320.
Who is responsible for keeping sidewalks clear of
snow?
Homeowners and business owners whose property abuts a
public sidewalk are required to clear the sidewalk of snow and
ice.
Where can I find information on “green” building?
Try the Connecticut Green Building Council (ctgbc.org),
a chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council in Rocky Hill
that was formed in 2001; The Center for Green Building in
Bridgeport (centerforgreenbuilding.com); Go Green Building-
Connecticut in Orange (gogreenct.com).
More information about green building practices can be found
at the state Department of Environmental Protection’s Web site,
ct.gov/dep, which has a special portal devoted to the subject.
There are fact sheets on making your home and landscape
“green”, and improving indoor environmental quality and tips
on proper management and disposal of waste and materials like
treated lumber.
February 17, 2011 darien answerbook • 33

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34 • darien answerbook Emergency Services
What kinds of calls should be made to 911?
Only emergency calls should be made to 911, such as to
report a fire, medical crisis, or police emergency like a home
intruder or other life-threatening situation.
People should not call for road conditions or routine service
such as barking dogs. Direct routine police calls to 203-662-
5300, routine fire calls to the appropriate fire department listed
below.
Who answers the 911 line?
All 911 calls are answered at the Darien Police Department,
including calls made from your car or the highway. A mobile
911 system enables dispatchers to track a cell phone caller’s
location anywhere in the state.
Where is the nearest emergency room?
The nearest emergency rooms are at Stamford Hospital
(203-325-7777), 30 Shelburne Road, and Norwalk Hospital
(203-852-2160) on Maple Street.
What ambulance service is available in town?
Darien is served by Darien EMS-Post 53, headquartered on
Ledge Road. The post is manned by 75 state-certified EMTs,
including both adult advisers and young adults. With three
ambulances, it is on call 24 hours a day, every day. For routine
matters, call 203-655-8980.
Who responds to a medical crisis?
The Darien Police and Darien EMS-Post 53’s fly car and
ambulance all respond to medical emergencies. Additionally,
the volunteer fire departments in Darien respond to all motor
vehicle accidents and whenever rescue extrication equipment
is required.
Police officers receive emergency medical training includ-
ing CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators. For
40 years, Darien EMS rescue personnel have provided basic
and advanced life support including defibrillation, intravenous
therapy, and the application of anti-shock garments. When an
emergency call requires a paramedic, one is dispatched from
Stamford EMS to augment Darien’s crew. A paramedic can
provide advanced cardiac life support, intravenous drug therapy,
medication for breathing problems and diabetic reactions, exter-
nal pacemakers and advanced trauma care.
How much does an ambulance call cost me?
Darien EMS does not charge for its services. When Stamford
EMS responds, patients will receive a bill for paramedic ser-
vice.
How can I help the ambulance corps?
Darien EMS is funded entirely by donations and relies on the
generosity of the community. It runs two fund-raisers a year:
a food fair at Tilley Pond Park following the Memorial Day
parade, and an art show at its headquarters in the fall. Donations
may be sent to: Darien EMS, Box 2066, Darien, CT 06820.
Also, visit post53.info for more details.
The post also welcomes new members, both student and
adult. For information, call 203-655-8980.
How many fire departments protect the town?
Darien is served by three volunteer fire departments: Darien,
Noroton and Noroton Heights.
The Darien Fire Department is headquartered at 848 Boston
Post Road. For routine matters, call 203-655-1216, or fax 203-
655-6152. Founded in 1895, the department protects the eastern
portion of Darien, covering about 45% of the town. The chief is
February 17, 2011
Rick Weatherstone. The Web site is darienfire.org.
The Noroton Fire Department has been putting out fires
since 1896. The firehouse is at 1873 Boston Post Road. For rou-
tine calls, the number is 203-655-0653. The fire chief is Michael
Vitti. The Web site is norotonfd.org.
At 106 years old, Darien’s third and youngest fire department
is Noroton Heights Fire Department, 209 Noroton Avenue,
covering the Noroton Heights district. The routine phone num-
ber is 203-655-1033; the fax number is 203-662-0682. The fire
chief is Alan Hyatt. The Web site is nhfd.us.
How many calls do the fire departments answer
In recent years, Darien Fire Department has answered about
520 calls per year; Noroton Heights Fire Department has had
about 500 calls; and Noroton Fire Department has responded to
about 300 calls.
How many firefighters are there?
The Darien Fire Department has about 50 active members, 40
associate members, and two house members. Most of the mem-
bers have served at least 15 years as active members.
The Noroton Fire Department has about 140 members, of
which 35 to 40 are active members. Noroton Heights has about
150 active and veteran members.
How can I become a volunteer firefighter?
All three fire departments welcome new volunteers. The
minimum age for membership ranges from 16 to 18 depending
on the department. All members must live or work in town.
Volunteer firefighters must attend specific training programs
and attend fire drills. For complete information, call one of the
fire departments or stop by the fire house for an application or
visit their Web sites.
Whom do I call if I am displaced from my house due to
a fire?
The American Red Cross Darien/Stamford Chapter helps
those who are displaced from their homes due to fires or other
disasters. The American Red Cross provides food, shelter and
financial assistance for immediate disaster-caused needs. Call
203-363-1041. Web site: dsredcross.org.
Will I be billed for a false alarm?
Yes. Homeowners and business owners will be fined $100 for
each and every false fire alarm. The ordinance applies to “any
device for the purpose of detecting fires and emergencies and
transmits a signal to a monitoring company that relays infor-
mation to the Darien Emergency Communications Center,
or produces a signal to which the police or fire departments
are expected to respond.” Excluded are devices such as smoke
alarms, which are designed to alert only people on the prem-
ises.
Automatic telephone dialing alarm systems that send mes-
sages directly to the Darien Emergency Communications Center
are prohibited. Use of such a system will result in a $100 fine.
Do I need to register my automatic alarm?
Yes. Forms are available in the fire marshal’s office, and
online at darienct.gov/firemarshal. There is no charge to reg-
ister, but there is a $100 fine if your system activates without
being registered.
Who is Darien’s fire marshal?
Robert Buch (203-656-7345) is Darien’s fire marshal. His
office is in Town Hall.
The fire marshal works closely with Darien’s three fire
February 17, 2011
n Darien
1. Weed Beach
2. Noroton Yacht Club
3. Pear Tree Point Beach
4. Boat Ramp
5. Pear Tree Point School
6. Darien YMCA
7. First Church of
Christ Scientist
8. Hindley School
9. Noroton Presbyterian
Church
10. St. John Church
11. St. Luke’s Church
12. Noroton Fire Department
13. Town Hall
14. Mather Fields
15. Baker Park
16. Piedmont Park
17. Spring Grove Cemetery
18. Police Station
19. Post 53
20. The Depot
21. Noroton Heights
Train Station
22. Noroton Heights Post Office
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Points of Interest
23. Noroton Heights
Shopping Center
24. VFW
25. Noroton Heights
Fire Department
26. McGuane Park
27. Stony Brook Park
28. The “Dump”
29. Andrew Shaw
Boy Scout Cabin
30. The Senior Center
31. Darien Community
Association Meadowlands
32. Middlesex Middle School
33. Woodland Park
34. Holmes School
35. Middlesex Club
36. Darien High School
37. United Methodist
Church of Darien
38. St. Thomas More Church
39. Wee Burn Country Club
40. St. John Cemetery
41. Woodway Country Club
42. Talmadge Hill Church
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darien answerbook • 35
43. Stephen Mather House
44. St. Paul’s Church
45. Ox Ridge School
46. Country Club of Darien
47. Cherry Lawn Park
48. Darien Nature Center
49. Royle School
50. Tilley Park
51. Darien Fire Department
52. First Congregational Church
53. The Darien Historical Society
54. YWCA Darien/Norwalk
55. Darien Ice Rink
56. Sellecks Woods
57. Goodwives Shopping Plaza
58. Darien Railroad Station
59. Calvary Baptist Church
60. Red Cross
61. Darien Library
62. Darien Post Office
63. New Life Christian
Fellowship
64. Tokeneke School
65. Convent of St. Birgitta
66. Tokeneke Club
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36 • darien answerbook February 17, 2011

CENTER
 February 17, 2011 darien answerbook • 37

R SPREAD
38 • darien answerbook Emergency Services
departments. His office is also responsible for reviewing plans
for all new construction, except for one- and two-family homes,
and making construction and annual inspections. His duties
also include fire investigation; permits for blasting and flam-
mable liquid tanks; certification of hazardous material transport
vehicles; certification of nursery schools, day care centers, and
convalescent homes; certification of all liquor permit premises;
and fire prevention education programs.
Where is the police department?
Darien Police Department headquarters are at 25 Hecker
Avenue. The non-emergency number is 203-662-5300. For the
records division, call 203-662-5320; for the detective division,
call 203-662-5330. The chief of police is Duane J. Lovello,
who may be e-mailed at dlovello@darienct.gov. The Web site
is darienpolice.org.
What are the town’s crime statistics?
Darien has very low violent and property crime rates, with
no murders, manslaughter or rapes reported in many years. The
crime rate of 69 incidents per 100,000 people was well below
the state crime rate.
Darien averaged about three robberies per year from 2000-
2009. There were four robberies reported in 2009, same as in
2008. Aggravated assault reports averaged almost eight per year
over the same period, with 10 in 2009 and three in 2008.
Additionally from 2000-2009, burglaries reported in Darien
averaged 30 per year (17 in 2009, down from 37 in 2008);
larceny and theft reports averaged 147 incidents (111 in 2009,
down from 164 in 2008); and motor vehicle thefts averaged 9.5
(2 in 2009, down from six in 2008, 13 in 2007).
The police department issued 1,031 tickets to drivers using
cellphones while driving, up from 724 in 2008. The police’s
Click It or Ticket program gave out 873 tickets to drivers failing
to use seat belts in 2009, up from 656 in 2008. DUI arrests in
2009: 67, down from 95 in 2009.
How many guns were registered in town?
There were 152 guns registered with the Darien Police in
2008.
How big is the department?
The department has about 51 officers, supported by civilian
employees, special officers, school crossing guards and traffic
agents. The department also includes a highly trained emer-
gency response team and dive team.
Police patrol in marked and unmarked vehicles, on motor-
cycle, on foot, and on bicycles. Police also patrol the water in
a twin-engine boat. All police cars and the boat have automatic
external defibrillators. All patrol officers are trained at the MRT
or EMT level.
There is also an Emergency Response Team that is specially
trained to deal with critical incidents such as high-risk search
and arrest warrants, barricaded suspects, hostage situations,
sniper activity, riot and crowd control, terrorist activities, and
dignitary protection.
I need to be fingerprinted for an application. Will the
police do it for me?
Yes. The detective bureau offers this service to Darien resi-
dents Monday through Friday from 8 to 4, by appointment only.
Call 203-662-5330. The police do no supply fingerprint cards;
they must be obtained from your employer.
February 17, 2011
What happens when a townwide emergency occurs?
Darien maintains an Office of Emergency Management
at the town hall (203-656-7345). Deputy Fire Marshal Marc
McEwan (mmcewan@darienct.gov) is the town’s emergency
management director. The Emergency Message Line is 203-
656-7493.
The town subscribes to a Reverse 911 system that enables
town leaders to initiate a mass calling to the community with
information and steps they should take in case of an emergency.
The system can target a small geographic area for local emer-
gencies, or the entire town for larger disasters. The database
includes only listed phone numbers available from a commer-
cial source. However, residents and businesses that use unlisted
phone numbers, cell phones, or VOIP (voice over Internet pro-
tocol) service may be included by registering online at darienct.
gov or by visiting the fire marshal’s office in town hall. The
system can also notify pagers, fax machines, e-mail addresses,
and TTY/TDD devices for the hearing impaired.
The town has published a comprehensive preparedness guide
offering information and tips on how to cope with all kinds of
emergencies from weather disasters to fire, earthquake, building
collapse, chemical spills, carbon monoxide, terrorism, radiation
exposure, disease outbreaks, a flu pandemic, and power out-
ages. It is available online at darienct.gov/oem.
Local emergency information will be broadcast on radio
stations WNLK/1350AM, WSTC/1400AM, WEFX/95.9FM,
WKHL/96.7FM; on television stations WTNH/TV8, WFSB/
TV3, News 12, and Darien Channel 79.
The Darien Emergency Management Committee is keep-
ing a list of individuals with special needs who require assis-
tance during an emergency. To be placed on the list, call 203-
656-7328.
How can I reach a family member in the military dur-
ing an emergency?
The American Red Cross provides emergency communica-
tion for members of the military when family emergencies arise.
Call Ronnie Tella at 203-363-1041 or e-mail rtella@dsredcross.
org.
How can I find out about roads closing to traffic?
Darien has a Web site for road closures: municipalclosures.
com/darien; also: darientimes.com, and twitter.com/darien-
times.
A hurricane is coming. How should I prepare?
Connecticut Light and Power offers the following tips: Check
medications that need refrigeration. You may want to keep a
small cooler handy for that purpose. Have a supply of canned,
non-perishable food and drinking water that will last a couple
of days. Get extra ice and put it in plastic bags. This will help
maintain the temperature in your refrigerator and freezer.
Set aside water. Fill the bathtub with water for toilets; a
bucket in the bowl is all that’s needed for flushing. You can
buy bottled water for drinking. Be prepared to cook outside, but
don’t bring grills into the house.
Stock up on batteries for a battery-powered radio and flash-
lights, and have extra wood for fireplaces or wood stoves. Fill
your car’s gas tank.
Stay away from downed power lines.
You should avoid talking on the phone or watching TV during
a lightning storm. Consider unplugging expensive items such as
computers, televisions and refrigerators to avoid power surge
damage, which can occur even if they are plugged into surge
protectors.
February 17, 2011 Health
How can I find a good doctor for my family?
Stamford Health System’s Web site (stamhealth.org) pro-
vides a complete list of physicians affiliated with The Stamford
Hospital, available under the heading Find A Physician. Health
Call at 1-877-233-9355 offers referrals and health information
services.
You may also call Norwalk Hospital’s Physician Referral
Service at 866-642-9355 or go online to norwalkhosp.org and
click on “Physician Directory.”
Do any doctors take walk-in patients?
The Darien Immediate Medical Care Center (203-656-
3900) is at 484 Post Road. It is open from 9 to 5 on weekdays,
and 9:30 to 2:30 on Saturday, Sunday, and holidays.
The Tully Health Center (203-276-2222) at 32 Strawberry
Hill Court in Stamford, is open for non-life-threatening illness
and injury from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 8
a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday, and holidays.
What does the health department do?
The Darien Department of Health office is in Room 109 of
Town Hall. Office hours are 8:30 to 4:30. The phone number is
203-656-7320.
The department is dedicated to promoting physical and
mental health, preventing disease and injury, guarding against
health threats, improving the environment, and enforcing the
Connecticut Health Code and all local health ordinances. The
department also handles requests for shellfishing permits, mea-
sures bacterial levels at the town’s two beaches, and maintains
a beach hotline to let residents know if the beaches are open or
closed. (See Recreation section.)
The department’s Web page at darienct.gov (click on Town
Services & Departments) offers a vast list of information on a
variety of health issues from eating fish caught in Connecticut
to tick management, radon gas measurements, and disinfecting
a private well.
Who are the town’s health officers?
David A. Knauf is the director of health. The office adminis-
trator is Elaine Kilbourn (ekilbourn@darienct.gov). Barrington
Bogle is the sanitarian. Dr. Caleb Moore is medical adviser.
Does Darien have a nursing home?
Notre Dame Convalescent Home, 76 West Rock Road in
Norwalk, is a non-profit church-related facility with 60 beds.
Call 847-5893.
Waveny Care Center, 3 Farm Road, New Canaan, is a non-
profit facility offering short- or long-term skilled nursing care
and rehabilitation therapy. There is also a special long-term,
skilled nursing care unit for people with Alzheimer’s and other
forms of dementia. For information, call 203-594-5200 or visit
waveny.org.
There are a number of other nursing homes in Stamford and
Norwalk. For a list and quality-related information, visit online
at medicare.gov.
Who offers home care?
Right at Home, home care agency at 745 Post Road (2nd
floor), Darien (203-202-9488; Web site: homecarerah.com).
Right at Home is licensed, bonded and insured, and is available
24/7 for your convenience, owner Kaisy Pan noted. It offers
hourly care, live-ins and many services ranging from compan-
ionship/homemaking, to physical assistance and hygiene.
Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County, formerly
Nursing & Home Care, offers skilled nurses; home health aides;
physical, occupational and speech therapists; live-in help; shop-
darien answerbook • 39
pers; dietitians; companions; peer counselors; homemakers;
medical social workers; a pre-hospice team; case managers; and
caregivers providing respite services.
Visiting Nurse also provides Assisted Living at Home for
those who want help maintaining their independence at home.
Services include help with cleaning, dressing, shopping, bathing
and companionship. In addition, Nursing & Home Care pro-
vides wellness programs, such as health screenings, immuniza-
tion programs and health education programs.
For more information, call 203-762-8958 or 1-800-898-
HOME or visit visitingnurse.net.
Visiting Nurse Services of Connecticut offers skilled nurs-
ing; occupational, physical, and speech therapy; medical social
work and home health aides as well as many specialty services.
Call 203-838-8621 or visit vnsct.com.
Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care of Southwestern Connecticut
(VNHC), also offers home health services including skilled
nursing; physical, speech, and occupational therapies; a medi-
cal social worker; home health aides; and baby, child care, and
homemaking assistance. Call 203-276-3000. Web site: vnhcsw.
org.
More services can be found online at medicare.gov by click-
ing on Home Health Compare.
Can I get help with household tasks while I’m recuper-
ating from an illness?
Many of the visiting nurse associations listed above offer
aides to assist with household chores. Family & Children’s
Agency offers homemakers and a home chore service. Call
203-855-8765.
Are there any programs for caregivers?
The Darien/Stamford Chapter of the American Red
Cross (112 Prospect Street, Stamford; 203-363-1041; e-mail:
stamfordinfo@dsredcross.org; Web site: dsredcross.org) offers
a Family Caregiving Course, which focuses on helping those
who care for a loved one. Topics include: assisting with per-
sonal care, positioning and helping your loved one move, gen-
eral caregiving skills, home safety, caring for a loved one with
Alzheimer’s or dementia, among others. The course does not
appear on the regular schedule but is offered by request.
Both Waveny Care Center and The Village at Waveny Care
Center offer respite stays to give caregivers the necessary time
they need to rejuvenate, travel, etc. Waveny will help assess the
level of care (skilled nursing or assisted living) you need. Call
203-594-5200 or visit waveny.org.
The Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program is oper-
ated in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association Chapters
of Connecticut and the Connecticut Area Agencies on Aging.
Eligible families may apply for daytime or overnight respite
care services. Call the Area Agencies on Aging at 1-800-994-
9422.
Are there any support groups for caregivers?
The Center for Hope in Darien offers a support group for
people caring for patients with Alzheimer’s or other forms of
dementia. Call 203-655-4693.
Catholic Family Services offers a caregivers support group.
Call 203-323-1105.
Friendly Connections has a phone group for caregivers on
Mondays at 11. Call Rebecca Kestenbaum at 203-661-8841 for
details.
Who provides hospice services?
Hospice is a community-based program that focuses on pain
relief, symptom control and comfort for terminally ill patients,
40 • darien answerbook February 17, 2011

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February 17, 2011 Health darien answerbook • 41

allowing them to be cared for where they are most comfortable,

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usually at home. There are several services to choose from. ����������
Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County helps indi-
viduals and their families cope with terminal illnesses in the
comfort and privacy of their own homes. Services include
managing pain and symptoms to provide comfort; helping with �����������������������������
personal care such as bathing, dressing and meal preparation;
arranging for medical equipment and nutritional guidance;
respite support for caregivers; counseling and companionship;
spiritual guidance and grief support services. Call 762-8958 or
1-800-898-HOME or visit visitingnurse.net.
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Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care of Southwestern Connecticut ������������������������
(VNHC) is available at home, in an assisted-living facility, or ������������������������
at the Richard L. Rosenthal Hospice Residence, at the Bennett
Medical Center on the Stamford Hospital campus. For more ������������ ���������������������
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information, call Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care at 276- �����������������������

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Waveny Care Center offers hospice care. Call 203-594-5200 �������������������������������������������������������

or visit waveny.org.
VNS of Connecticut’s Hospice at Home is focused on
improving the patient’s quality of life and addresses the physi-
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cal, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patient and fam-
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ily. Call 203-838-8621 or visit vnsct.com.

How can I become a hospice volunteer?

Volunteers are an integral part of a hospice program. Volunteers
������������������
may choose to work with patients and families, or may help in ����������������
many other ways.
Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County offers volun- ��������������������������������������
teer training courses at least twice each year. Call 203-847-7646
for details. ����������������������
Visiting Nurse Service of Connecticut offers training pro- ��������������������
grams at its Norwalk office. Call 203-838-8621. ����������������������������
Does anyone offer wellness programs? ������������������
The YWCA of Darien/Norwalk (203-655-2535; Web site: ���������������������� ������������
ywcadariennorwalk.org) offers a variety of programs over the
year including mammography screenings and bone density ���������������������������������������������
screenings.

Are there CPR classes in town?

Each year the Darien/Stamford Red Cross trains hundreds
of people in CPR and first aid. For a schedule of classes, call
203-663-1041 or visit dsredcross.org. The group’s state site is ������������������������������������������������������������
ctredcross.org.
CPR classes are also offered occasionally at the YWCA of �����������������������������������
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Darien/Norwalk, 49 Old Kings Highway North. For details,
call 203-655-2535 or visit ywcadariennorwalk.org.
CPR classes may be offered periodically around town at �������������������������
locations like the senior center. Check The Darien Times for �������������������������
announcements.
The EMS Institute at The Stamford Hospital offers a
variety of courses in CPR and first aid for the general public ����������������������������������
and healthcare professionals. For more information, refer to
stamfordhospital.org and click on “about” and “education” or �������������������������������������������
call 203-325-7068.

Does anyone help the handicapped?

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The town’s Social Services office can direct people to many �������������������
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resources. Call 203-656-7328.

Is there rehabilitation for the disabled community?

The Rehab Center works with children and adults to
restore mobility and function depleted by serious injuries and
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neurological disorders. The Rehab Center also offers the Skill
Source Program, a vocational program that provides training
42 • darien answerbook Health
and employment opportunities to qualified individuals with
disabilities.
The Rehab Center (203-325-1544) is at 26 Palmer’s Hill
Road in Stamford.
Stamford Hospital’s Human Motion Institute offers reha-
bilitation services to improve the functional abilities of those
who have suffered an illness or injury. Call 203-276-1000.
Is there a pharmacy in town and when is it open?
Grieb’s Pharmacy (203-655-1000), 1021 Post Road, is
open every day. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through
Friday, 8 to 6 on Saturday, and 9:30 to 3 on Sunday. Area-wide
delivery is available.
The pharmacy at CVS, 964 Post Road (203-655-6335), is
open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m.
to 6 p.m. on the weekends. The store closes at 9 on the week-
ends.
Walgreen’s, 138 Heights Road (203-655-8904), is open from
8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 to 6 on Saturday,
and 9 to 6 on Sunday. The store is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
every day.
For 24-hour service there are Walgreen’s (pharmacy: 203-
845-0457, store: 203-845-0436) at 55 Westport Avenue in
Norwalk; and CVS (pharmacy: 203-847-2351, store: 203-847-
6057) 327 Main Avenue, Norwalk and 593 Newfield Avenue,
Stamford (203-967-4600).
Is there a clearinghouse of health services?
Darien Social Services (203-656-7328) offers information
and referrals for services available in the community.
Infoline of Southwest Connecticut offers information and
referrals on adult day care, nutrition, home care, respite care,
health services, mental health, social services, legal services,
transportation, financial services, and other topics. Call 211 or
203-324-6703 or visit 211.org online.
The Connecticut Self-Help Network is a statewide clear-
inghouse for all support groups across the state. Its Self-Help
Directory lists more than 1,450 local and statewide groups deal-
ing with abuse, addictions, bereavement, disabilities, health,
mental health, parenting, and many other stressful life situ-
ations. It also has contact information for more than 1,000
national networks. The directory can be previewed online at
theconsultationcenter.org. For information, call 203-624-6982
or e-mail elaine.horn@yale.edu.
Who organizes blood drives?
The Darien/Stamford Chapter of the American Red Cross
collects blood on a regular basis. A person must be 17 or older
and at least 110 pounds to donate blood. Many questions will
be asked in order to assure the donated blood will be safe. The
entire process takes about an hour, including questions, dona-
tion, rest time, and snacks afterward.
Call 203-363-1041 or visit dsredcross.org for the schedule.
Is there a flu clinic in town in the fall?
The town offers flu clinics for adults with Visiting Nurse &
Hospice of Fairfield County, formerly Nursing & Home Care, in
October and November. For dates, check The Darien Times or
call the health department’s flu hotline at 203-656-7823. Clinic
dates are also listed on the town’s Web site, darienct.gov.
Are there any blood pressure screenings?
Visiting Nurse offers free blood pressure screenings the sec-
ond Monday of each month from 10 to 11, at the Darien Senior
Center (655-7105); the third Tuesday of each month from 2 to
3, in the Community Room at Old Town Hall Housing (203-
February 17, 2011
656-7328); and the first Tuesday of each month, 11:30 to 1:30,
at town hall.
What type of counseling is available?
Darien Social Services (203-656-7328) offers counseling for
families and individuals of all ages.
Family Centers Inc. (203-655-0547/familycenters.org) at 17
Old Kings Highway South offers individual, family, and group
counseling as well as services for elderly people and young
parents.
Family & Children’s Agency (203-855-8765/familyandchil-
drensagency.org) offers family counseling.
Jewish Family Service (203-921-4161/ctjfs.org) offers fam-
ily life education services that help strengthen individuals and
families and help them deal with life’s challenges.
The Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut, 975
Post Road (203-662-9380/childguidancect.org) is a nonprofit
mental health resource for area children and families, receiving
referrals from schools, courts, human service agencies, and pri-
vate physicians. Self-referrals are also encouraged. The center
has a clinical staff of psychiatrists, psychologists, social work-
ers, and marriage and family therapists. Prevention services
are also provided through public education and consultation
programs.
The center also offers an Emergency Mobile Crisis Service,
providing immediate mental health assessments and stabiliza-
tion services for children and adolescents experiencing serious
psychiatric symptoms or severe reactions to a recent traumatic
event. The service is available 24/7. Call 203-323-9797 or 888-
825-6777.
Catholic Charities (203-323-1105/bridgeportdiocese.com),
offers mental health counseling services for adolescents, adults,
and the elderly. Other counseling services include adoption and
pregnancy.
Stamford Hospital’s Outpatient Behavioral Health
Services can be reached at 203-325-7560.
Who offers substance abuse counseling?
Liberation Programs (203-655-8973/liberationprograms.
org) offers comprehensive substance abuse prevention and treat-
ment options that address the needs of youth, adults, and seniors
at risk for abusing or currently abusing alcohol or drugs. Family
and Youth Options, offered through Liberations Programs’
Prevention Program, offers telephone consultations, assessment
and intervention, individual and family counseling, drug testing,
peer mentor groups, group therapy and parenting help, anger
management, and relapse prevention. The Darien office is at 2
Renshaw Road.
Family Centers Inc. (203-655-0547) and Family & Children’s
Agency (203-855-8765) offer substance abuse counseling.
The Higher Ground Ministry, for those affected by addic-
tion, meets Tuesday evenings, 7:30, in Memorial Hall at the
Calvary Baptist Church, 988 Post Road. Call 203-655-0318.
What are the closest drug treatment centers?
Liberation Programs (see above) offers treatment services,
including detoxification and residential programs.
Silver Hill Hospital on Valley Road in New Canaan (800-
899-4455) has extensive programs for drug and alcohol abuse.
You may also call Norwalk Hospital Addiction and
Rehabilitation (203-852-2520).
What support groups are available?
There are many support groups offered through Stamford
Hospital, Norwalk Hospital, the Center for Hope (see Public
Services), the YWCA, the American Cancer Society, Friendly
February 17, 2011 Health
Connections, and other agencies.
The Darien Department of Social Services offers informa-
tion and referral to support services in the community. Call
203-656-7328. You may also call Infoline at 211 or go online
to 211.org.
Where can I find information about cancer prevention,
screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support services?
The American Cancer Society’s 24-hour cancer information
line, 1-800-ACS-2345 and Web site cancer.org, can help anyone
understand a cancer diagnosis and decide how to overcome it.
The American Cancer Society provides free rides to and from
cancer treatment, one-on-one personal support for breast cancer
patients, and free wigs and beauty classes to help women with
the side effects of treatment. Volunteers are always needed for
these programs. Call 1-800-889-3340 and press 3 to volunteer
or for more information about these programs.
Does anyone focus on autism?
Friends of Autistic People, based in Greenwich, advocates
appropriate services for the entire spectrum of an autistic adult’s
life. It offers parent support groups, education, and advocacy.
Call Brita Darany at 203-661-8510 or go online to autisticadu-
lts.com.
Does anyone help those with spinal cord injuries?
The Obie Harrington-Howes Foundation is comprised of
community volunteers who want to help people with severe
spinal cord injuries. The Darien-based group’s focus is to assist
people living in Connecticut with non-reimbursable medical
expenses. For information, call 888-265-5859 or visit ohhf.org.
What is the ITP Foundation?
The ITP Foundation of Darien is dedicated to battling the
bleeding disorder immune thrombocytopenic purpura, also
known as ITP. It is a blood disorder that affects the immune
system and can occur in children and adults. For information,
visit online at itpfoundation.org or call 203-655-6954.
What help is available for victims of domestic violence
or sexual abuse?
The Domestic Violence Crisis Center (203-853-0418/dvcct.
org) offers crisis intervention, counseling, advocacy, and edu-
cation to help people break free from emotional, physical, or
sexually abusive situations. The center also maintains a 12-bed
shelter. The hotline number is 1-888-774-2900.
The Sexual Assault Crisis and Education Center (203-348-
9346), offers free crisis counseling for victims of sexual assault
and other support services. The center also runs a number of
support groups. The 24-hour confidential hotline number is 329-
2929. The Web site is sacec-ct.org.
Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut (CGC)
at 972 Post Road (203-662-9380/childguidancect.org) coordi-
nates the Lower Fairfield County Child Sexual Abuse Response
Team (SART), an interagency collaboration integrating criminal
investigations, child protection and comprehensive services
for child sexual abuse victims and non-offending parents. The
center also offers 24-hour outreach and mental health services
to children exposed to domestic violence or other traumatic
events.
Where can I get help for an eating disorder?
Silver Hill Hospital (800-899-4455) in New Canaan and
Hall-Brooke Behavioral Health Services (203-277-1251) in
Westport offer treatment programs for anorexia nervosa, buli-
mia, and other eating disorders.
darien answerbook • 43
The YWCA of Darien/Norwalk offers Overeaters
Anonymous, a confidential 12-step support program. Call 203-
655-2535. Web site: ywcadariennorwalk.org.
The Wilkins Center for Eating Disorders (203-531-1909/
wilkinscenter.com) in Greenwich offers outpatient care.
The Renfrew Center of Southern Connecticut, 436 Danbury
Road in Wilton (203-834-5020/renfrew.com) offers an intensive
outpatient program for young people and adults with eating
disorders. The center also offers nutritional counseling and sup-
port groups for individuals (adults and adolescents), families,
and couples.
What type of help is available for the mentally ill?
The Community Fund of Darien’s Human Services Planning
Council has produced Creating Connections: A Directory of
Mental Health and Support Services. For information, call
203-655-8775.
The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill has a Stamford-
Greenwich affiliate at 730 Summer Street, Stamford. Call 203-
388-1603.
For information about supervised apartments or for consulta-
tions, call the Mental Health Association of Connecticut’s
Supported Living Community (860-797-8621 or 860-798-
2527). The association has a list of support groups throughout
the state; call 800-842-1501.
The Dubois Center, 780 Summer Street, Stamford, is a state-
owned outpatient mental health and addiction services center
serving adults with severe behavioral health disorders. Call
203-388-1600.
Laurel House, 1616 Washington Boulevard in Stamford, is
a community association for people with mental illness helping
them integrate into the general community. Call 203-324-1816
or visit online at laurelhouse.net.
The Care Network, a group of three area health care agen-
cies, offers treatment, counseling and help in finding com-
munity resources; call 800-898-HOME. Other sources of help
include Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan (203-966-3651)
and Hall Brooke Behavioral Health Center in Westport (203-
277-1251).
What is radon gas?
Radon gas is a decay product of radioactive uranium that
cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. In open air it is harmlessly
dispersed, however well water passing through soil with high
levels of the gas may be a significant source of radon in a
home. High levels of radon occur in Connecticut, particularly
in Fairfield County. Exposure to radon increases your risk of
developing lung cancer. According to the U.S. E.P.A., radon
causes more cancer deaths than any other single air pollutant
except tobacco smoke.
The simplest way to find out if your home has high levels of
radon is through a carbon filter test. Because radon is known to
occur in Darien, the health department has radon-testing kits for
free distribution to local residents. Drop by the health depart-
ment and pick one up. For more information, call 203-656-
7320. Kits are also available commercially or may be purchased
by calling the Radon Hotline — 1-800-SOS-RADON — oper-
ated by the National Safety Council.
Should I worry about Lyme disease?
Lyme disease, spread by ticks, is prevalent. Take precautions
when going in the woods and fields. Use insect repellent, dress
in light-colored clothing, roll pant cuffs into socks, wear long
sleeves and a hat. Inspect pets. Go to darienct.gov, click on town
services, then health department for more information..
44 • darien answerbook Senior Citizens
Who serves the town’s senior population?
The Department of Social Services, in Room 109 at town
hall, is open from 8:30 to 4:30 Monday through Friday. The
telephone number is 203-656-7328, fax 203-656-7407. In the
office are Olive Hauser, director (ohauser@darienct.gov); Inta
V. Adams (iadams@darienct.gov), assistant director; and Elaine
Kilbourn, office administrator and a notary public (darienct.
gov).
The Commission on Aging is concerned with the needs of
Darien’s seniors with regard to health, recreation, transporta-
tion, and economics. Ollive Hauser is the municipal agent on
aging, and serves as liaison with the Commission on Aging and
other resources and programs serving the elderly.
Is there a senior center?
The Darien Senior Activities Center (203-656-7455/
dsac.darien.org) is at 30 Edgerton Street. The center is open
Monday through Friday from 9 to 3. The center’s executive
director is Elizabeth Paris.
The center offers lunch at noon Monday through Friday.
The cost is $4 and reservations are required by 11:15. The cen-
ter offers a number of programs including exercise, arts and
crafts, art workshops, bridge and pinochle, computer classes,
dance class, discussion groups, quilting, Italian conversation,
and writing workshops. There are also Bingo, movies, musical
entertainment, and a caregivers support group.
Blood pressure screenings are taken the first Wednesday of
each month at 10, October through May.
Is there a flu clinic for seniors?
The town offers flu and pneumonia immunizations with
Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County, formerly
Nursing & Home Care, in October and November. For details,
call 203-656-7323.
What clubs or social groups are for the elderly?
The 60 Plus Club is a social group that meets every Thursday,
September through June, 12:30 to 3, at the Darien Community
Association, 274 Middlesex Road. Special outings and pro-
grams include spring and fall bus trips and traditional holiday
parties. Men and women 60 years old or older are eligible to
join the group. Association membership is not required. For
information, call the DCA at 203-655-9050.
The Darien Senior Men’s Association also meets at DCA’s
Meadowlands, each Wednesday from 10 to noon, September
through mid-June. Each week there is a program and there are
special events throughout the year. Activities include bowling,
bridge, chess, computer, golf, investments, songsters, tennis/
paddle, Ping-Pong. Membership is open to men in the Darien
area 55 or over.
The Friendly Connections Book Club is a telephone discus-
sion group for seniors. Call 203-656-1128.
The Darien-New Canaan AARP chapter is very active,
offering a number of social events. The group meets at the
Darien Senior Center. Guests are welcome. For information,
call Ron Heinbaugh at 203-655-0538.
How can seniors get to their doctor appointments?
The Darien/Stamford Chapter of the American Red Cross
(203-655-2586/dsredcross.org) offers free rides to seniors who
are unable to provide their own transportation to medical
appointments in Darien and surrounding communities. The
office needs 48 business hours notice. Seniors must be ambula-
tory. There is also a shopping service for the homebound.
February 17, 2011
What other transportation is available?
Gallivant is a wheelchair-accessible passenger van that pro-
vides scheduled door-to-door transportation around the area for
the needs and enjoyment of Darien senior citizens and physi-
cally handicapped residents of all ages. The van makes trips to
the Senior Center, 60-Plus Club, and other Darien programs,
meetings, and recreational facilities. It will also take riders
to medical appointments. Group trips to local shopping areas
are scheduled weekly. Depending on its schedule, the van can
sometimes offer group trips to Stamford, Norwalk and New
Canaan for shopping and recreational activities. Occasionally
the van provides groups with evening or weekend transportation
to special local events.
Gallivant service is available from 9 to 4 Monday through
Friday. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance
by calling 203-655-2227, Monday through Friday between 8
a.m. and 1 p.m. A donation of $2 per round trip is requested.
Easy Access serves disabled riders (who must be ADA
certified) with curb-to-curb service within Norwalk, Darien,
Stamford, and Greenwich. Service is available three-fourths of
a mile from the Post Road in Greenwich and Darien and to the
Riverview mall in Norwalk. It is run by Norwalk Transit. For
information, call 203-299-5180 (voice) or 203-299-5183 (TDD)
or visit online at norwalktransit.com.
Does the town have Meals on Wheels?
Meals on Wheels of Stamford/Darien is a volunteer, non-
profit agency that provides nutritionally balanced meals to
members of the community who need this service in order to
live independently in their own homes. Each day, volunteers
deliver one hot and one cold meal to clients. Fees are charged
on a sliding scale. For information on taking advantage of this
service or to volunteer, call 203-323-3294.
Senior Nutrition provides meals for seniors unable to pre-
pare their own food. A referral by a hospital, doctor, or social
services agency is required. Call 203-324-6175 or 203-323-
1105.
Are there any services that check up on homebound
seniors?
The Friendly Visitors Program provides volunteer visi-
tors to older Darien residents in need of companionship. For
information, call Inta V. Adams at 203-656-7321 or e-mail
iadams@ci.darien.ct.us.
Carrier Alert is a program coordinated with the post office
to assure the safety of seniors living alone. Call the department
of social services at 203-656-7328.
LifeLine is a 24-hour, emergency response system. Call 203-
853-3116 or visit familyandchildrensagency.org.
The Friendly Connection Friendly Caller Program makes
daily calls to the elderly and homebound. Call 203-656-1128 or
visit familycenters.org.
What is the Yellow Dot program?
This is a program in which senior citizens receive a yellow
dot sticker to affix to their car window. They also receive a
yellow folder to put in the glove compartment. In the folder
should be current medical information and contact numbers to
help EMS workers assist elderly accident victims. The same
information can be kept in a separate folder at home. For details,
call 203-656-7328.
Where can I get a wheelchair or other medical equip-
ment?
The Loan Closet, coordinated by the department of social
services (203-656-7328) provides free, short-term loan of con-
February 17, 2011 Senior Citizens
valescent equipment including wheelchairs, walkers, crutches,
canes, and shower chairs.
Grieb’s Pharmacy rents and sells wheelchairs, walkers, and
crutches. Call 203-655-1000.
Is there day care for the elderly?
The Adult Day Program at Waveny Care Center, 3 Farm
Road in New Canaan, is dedicated to improving the quality of
life for disabled or frail older adults who are still living at home,
but who may require personal assistance throughout the day
and/or more social interaction. If offers flexible hours and days.
Call 203-594-5200 or visit waveny.org.
Patchworks Adult Day Services (203-276-4993) is a pro-
gram of Stamford Hospital at 26 Palmers Hill Road, Stamford.
It provides individualized services for adults with physical,
social, cognitive or emotional limitations, including memory
loss. Transportation, breakfast, and lunch are provided Monday
through Saturday.
Elderhouse in Norwalk also serves Darien and provides meals
and transportation. Hours are Monday, Wednesday, Friday from
8 to 5; Tuesday and Thursday from 8 to 7; and Saturday from 9
to 3. Call 203-847-1998, e-mail denise@elderhouseadc.com or
go online to elderhouseADC.com.
In Stamford, there are also Almost Family (203-969-0101)
and St. Camillus Health Center (203-325-0200).
Is there special housing for the elderly?
Old Town Hall Housing, 719 Post Road, includes 30 units of
low-income housing available to seniors. For information, call
the Darien Housing Authority at 203-655-0866.
New Canaan Inn is a retirement community for independent
living at 73 Oenoke Ridge in New Canaan. It is an affiliate of
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darien answerbook • 45
Waveny Care Center. For details, call 203-966-1272 or visit
waveny.org.
A complete list of senior housing available in a 14-town
region of southwestern Connecticut is available from the Area
Agency on Aging (203-333-9288/swcaa.org) in Bridgeport.
A state agency offers rent rebates to eligible elderly and dis-
abled tenants. Call 203-656-7328.
Is there assisted living housing?
Atria Darien, 50 Ledge Road, (formerly Sterling Glen) offers
a variety of housing choices from independent living to assisted
living. Call 888-640-1090 or visit atriaseniorliving.com.
The Village at Waveny Care Center, 3 Farm Road, New
Canaan, is an assisted living residence with 52 apartments for
people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of memory
loss. All meals, social, recreational, and spiritual activities
are included. Call 203-594-5200 for more information or visit
waveny.org.
Edgehill Continuing Care Retirement Community in
Stamford offers independent and assisted living as well as nurs-
ing care. Call 203-323-2323.
Does anyone specialize in senior healthcare?
Waveny Care Center’s Brown Geriatric Evaluation Center
offers assessment services to review an individual’s cognitive,
psychological, social, medical, functional, and caregiver sta-
tus. Waveny’s Geriatric Care Management team helps family
members and friends find solutions to maintain an older adult
at their maximum level of independent function while having
them remain safely in their home for as long as possible. For
information, call 203-594-5200 or visit waveny.org.
Yale-New Haven Hospital’s Dorothy Adler Geriatric
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46 • darien answerbook Senior Citizens
Assessment Center (203-688-6361/ynhh.org) evaluates patients
with age-related problems that affect daily functioning. The hos-
pital also has a geriatric psychiatry unit. Call 203-688-7201.
The Center for Healthy Aging at Greenwich Hospital (203-
863-4374/greenhosp.org) offers a comprehensive aging assess-
ment and other services. The hospital also has an Acute Care for
the Elderly (ACE) Unit for older patients who need specialized
attention during inpatient visits.
Stamford Health Center (203-967-6140/stamhealth.org) offers
a Geriatric Assessment Program.
There is also Norwalk Hospital’s Geriatrics Consultation
Service (203-852-3112/norwalkhosp.org).
Does anyone help with insurance forms?
The Norwalk Hospital Volunteer Medicare Information
Service offers help to anyone interested in Medicare or supple-
mental insurance assistance. Call 203-852-3325 (or 3326) and
leave a name, telephone number and the best time for a volun-
teer to return the call.
Is there a program to help seniors stay in their homes?
Aging in Place in Darien is a free program for seniors spon-
sored by The Community Fund of Darien. It is a collaborative
program of local agencies, organizations, churches and town
services. The program helps Darien residents age 60-plus live
independently, comfortably and with dignity in their own homes
as long as possible. Aging in Place in Darien offers free referral
to local programs and vetted service providers such as handy-
men, electricians, caregiver agencies, grocery shoppers, trans-
portation, and other services; a free Senior Resource Directory
of local, regional and state services available to seniors; and a
free Out and About newsletter that highlights senior programs
and services, health tips and ideas for living at home safely.
Religion
What houses of worship are in town?
Calvary Baptist Church, 988 Post Road, (203-655-0318/
calvarybaptist.darien.org);
The Rev. Mark Orr, interim associate pastor;
Darien United Methodist Church, 345 Middlesex Road,
(203-655-1469/umcdarien.org);
The Rev. James Robert Hoffman, pastor;
Encounter Church, 988 Post Road, (203-969-5307/
encounterchurch.info);
Landon Reeser is lead pastor;
First Church of Christ, Scientist, 2331 Post Road, (203-
655-3407/christiansciencect.org/darien);
Julie Littell is clerk;
First Congregational Church (United Church of Christ),
14 Brookside Road, (203-655-0491/uccdarien.org);
The Rev. Dr. Donald Longbottom, senior minister;
The Neighborhood Church meets in members’ homes in
Darien and Stamford (203-322-5735/theneighborhoodchurchct.
org).
New Life Christian Fellowship, 65 Tokeneke Road, (203-
655-7194/nlcf.ws);
Noroton Presbyterian Church, 2011 Post Road, (203-655-
1451/norotonchurch.org);
The Rev. Samuel A. Schreiner III, senior pastor;
St. John R.C. Church, 1986 Post Road, (203-655-1145/
stjohndarien.com);
The Rev. Msg. Frank C. McGrath, pastor;
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 1864 Post Road, (203-655-
1456/saintlukesdarien.org);
February 17, 2011
To take advantage of these services and to receive a Senior
Resource Directory, call Aging in Place Coordinator Alyssa
Israel at 203-202-2912 or e-mail AIPcoordinator@community
funddarien.org.
Family & Children’s Aid Homemaker/Companion pro-
gram is available to assist the elderly in everyday tasks so they
can remain independent in their own homes. Mature workers
help with chores such as meal preparation, housework, grocery
shopping, companionship, laundry, etc. For information, call
203-748-5689.
Family & Children’s Agency Home Care Plus (203-855-
8765) offers a variety of services for a fee.
Jewish Family Services (203-921-4161/ctjfs.org) offers
home companions and other services that enable seniors to
remain safe, healthy, and independent in their own homes as
long as possible.
Is there a list of senior services?
The Department of Social Services can give you a list of
local, state and regional services. Copies are available at the
senior center, social services, and the library.
Also check the Senior Go to Guide at seniorgotoguide.com
and at the home page, click on Darien where there is a direc-
tory of local resources for seniors and their families.
Where can I report elder abuse?
Assuming it is not an emergency situation that would require
calling 911, you may call the municipal agent for the elderly
(203-656-7328) or Protective Services for the Elderly (1-888-
385-4225 or out of state, 1-800-203-1234; for after hours, call
Infoline at 211), which will check reports of neglect, abuse,
exploitation, or abandonment.
The Rev. David Anderson, rector;
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 471 Mansfield Avenue,
(203-655-8773/stpaulsdarien.org);
The Rev. Christopher P. Leighton, rector;
St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 374 Middlesex Road,
(203-655-3303/stmdarienct.org);
The Rev. J. Barry Furey, pastor;
Talmadge Hill Community Church, 80 Hollow Tree
Ridge Road, (203-966-2314/thcchurch.org);
The Rev. Michael Zeman, minister.
What churches and temples are nearby?
Those in Rowayton, New Canaan, and Stamford include:
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 834
Stillwater Road, Stamford, (203-323-1485/lds.org);
Fellowship for Jewish Learning, 572 Roxbury Road.
Stamford, (203-325-4605);
Rowayton United Methodist, 5 Pennoyer Street,
Rowayton, (203-838-0049/rowaytonumc.org);
St. John’s Lutheran Church, 884 Newfield Avenue,
Stamford, (203-322-0066/stjohnelca.org);
St. Michael’s Lutheran Church, 5 Oenoke Ridge Road,
New Canaan, (203-966-3913/stmichaelslutheran.org);
Trinity Lutheran Church, 265 Seaside Avenue, Stamford
(203-325-1143);
Temple Sinai, 458 Lakeside Drive, Stamford, (203-322-
1649/templesinaistamford.org);
Union Memorial Church, 58 Church Street, Stamford,
(324-6715/unionmemorialchurch.com);
February 17, 2011 Religion
Unitarian Universalist, 20 Forest Street, Stamford, (203-
348-0708/uusis.org);
United Church of Rowayton, 210 Rowayton Avenue,
Rowayton, (203-866-1415/ucrowayton.org);
Zion Lutheran Church, 132 Glenbrook Road, Stamford,
(203-327-7751/zionlutheran-stamford.org).
What are Stephen Ministers?
They are trained church members who volunteer to act as
a support and mentor to those facing personal challenges. For
information, call the First Congregational Church, Noroton
Presbyterian Church, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, or St.
Thomas More Catholic Church.
What is the Higher Ground Ministry?
This is a Christ-centered ministry sponsored by local church-
es that offers support to anyone affected by addiction, either
their own or that of a friend or family member. Meetings are on
Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. in memorial hall. For more information,
call the Calvary Baptist Church at 203-655-0318, visit online at
highergroundministry.org or call Lucetta and Ted D’Eramo at
203-888-9974.
Are there any Bible study programs?
The Neighborhood Church, a non-denominational church
which meets in members’ homes in Darien and Stamford, offers
Bible study at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays.
Noroton Presbyterian offers a variety of Bible study pro-
grams. ministry activities and small groups for adults and fun
activitiesd for youth.
darien answerbook • 47
Calvary Baptist Church has gatherings on Wednesdays for
a time of prayer and Bible study. A children’s Bible story may
be heard at 203-655-3292.
First Church of Christ, Scientist holds Wednesday meetings
at 8 p.m. that include Scriptural readings and testimonies of
healing. A free public reading room at 1904 Post Road is open
weekdays from 10 to 3, and from 10 to 1 on Saturdays.
St. Thomas More Church offers Bible study most Tuesday
mornings at 9:30 in the Rectory Annex. Call Maryann Knag at
203-213-4809 or e-mail mmknag@aol.com. She also conducts
Bible study groups at St. John’s Church.
Are there any youth programs?
Darien United Methodist Church has programs for mid-
dle school students.
New Life Christian Fellowship has a Soul Focus Youth
Night on Fridays at 8:30 for seventh grade through college.
St. Paul’s Episcopal holds two Yoot Groups on the first
and third Friday evenings from 7 to 9 for junior and senior
high school students.
St. Luke’s Episcopal has youth groups for middle and high
school.
Noroton Presbyterian offers a number of programs for
students and young adults.
Young Life and WyldLife, Christian outreach programs for
high school and middle school students, maintain a presence
through Young Life Darien/Rowayton, 19 Vitti Street, New
Canaan. Call 203-470-0986 or visit darien.younglife.org.
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48 • darien answerbook Children & Teens
Who is the town’s youth director?
Alicia Sillars is Darien’s youth director. She may be reached
at 203-656-7326 or asillars@darienct.gov.
What does the Youth Commission do?
The Youth Commission (203-656-7326) is made up of
seven appointed adults, a full-time youth director, and a Youth
Advisory Committee, with at least eight high school students.
The commission produces a monthly calendar of children’s
programs and activities — What’s Up for Kids — which is dis-
tributed through elementary schools and the Darien Library, and
is sent to local media. The commission also sponsors a number
of activities for young people.
How do I find a day care facility for my child?
Infoline at 211 maintains current listings of all state-licensed
facilities in Connecticut. Childcare counselors will help parents
assess the quality of different programs. Both the phone call and
service are free.
Is there a daycare/baby-sitting program?
Tot Drop is a licensed daycare/flexible baby-sitting ser-
vice offered through Noroton Presbyterian Church. Children
between the ages of six months and four years can register for
the program. For information, call 203-655-1451, ext. 15.
First Congregational Church (203-655-0491) offers child care
services.
Sitting Service (203-655-9783) offers baby-sitting (and pet-
sitting).
What is the legal drinking age?
In Connecticut, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to possess
alcohol anywhere in the state, including on private property. It
is also illegal for anyone to knowingly allow minors to possess
alcohol.
What is TOPS?
An acronym for Teen Options, TOPS offers drug-free and
alcohol-free social activities for Darien’s middle school stu-
dents. There are organized, chaperoned events for sixth, sev-
enth and eighth graders. Registration forms are in the Youth
Commission office in town hall or online at darienct.gov. For
information, call 203-656-7326 or go to the town Web site.
What is there for teenagers to do in town?
The Depot (203-655-0812), at the Noroton Heights train sta-
tion, is a drug-free and alcohol-free community center for high
school students. It is open Monday for Study Night from 6 to 9,
Tuesday through Thursday from 2:30 to 9, Friday and Saturday
from 7 to 11:30. The Depot has a large dance floor; full kitchen;
recreation room with TV, VCR, Ping-Pong, and pool; and out-
door basketball courts. There are events planned throughout the
year. For details, visit dariendepot.org.
Is there a Safe Rides Program?
The American Red Cross runs a Safe Rides program, which
offers free and confidential rides for high school students Friday
and Saturday nights from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. during the school
year. Call 203-655-6551.
Who helps troubled teenagers?
Family and Youth Options (203-655-8973/liberationpro-
grams.org), 2 Renshaw Road, is a counseling program that
is part of Liberation Programs Inc. Its goal is to help young
people, pre-teen to 18, and their families who are having dif-
ficulty coping with the challenges of adolescence. The program
February 17, 2011
offers individual and family counseling, peer leadership groups,
and community outreach.
Kids in Crisis offers preventive services and immediate inter-
vention for children in crisis. It is a United Way agency, licensed
by the Department of Children and Families, that provides both
crisis counseling and a short-term residential shelter for children
of all ages. Support and counseling is available free, 24 hours a
day, seven days a week. For information, call 203-327-KIDS or
visit kidsincrisis.org.
The Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut, 972
Post Road (203-662-9380/childguidancect.org) is a nonprofit
outpatient mental health center for children and teens who suf-
fer psychological, behavioral, developmental, social, or fam-
ily problems. The clinic is open weekdays with evening hours
available.
The center also offers an Emergency Mobile Crisis Service,
providing immediate mental health assessments and stabiliza-
tion services for children and adolescents experiencing serious
psychiatric symptoms or severe reactions to a recent traumatic
event. The service is available 24/7. Call 203-323-9797 or 888-
825-6777.
The Den for Grieving Kids is a grief support group offered
through Family Center Services. Call 203-655-4693 or visit
online at familycenters.org.
Where can I find manners (etiquette) classes for my
children?
The Cotillion of Darien has, for over 17 years, offered fourth,
fifth and sixth graders more than just ballroom dancing. A social
dance curriculum combined with an emphasis on good manners,
good deeds and social etiquette work together to provide young
people with dance skills as well as the social skills necessary to
feel poised and confident. For more information, call Robin and
Ed Poska at 203-831-9382 or e-mail: cotillionclasses@aol.com.
Web site: cotillionclasses.com.
Does anyone offer college counseling?
Beyond the guidance counselors at Darien High School,
Jewish Family Service (921-4161/ctjfs.org) offers consulting
services including understanding the college admission process,
college selection, and what college life is all about.
Is there a children’s theater group?
The DAC Kids’ Theatre at the Darien Arts Center (203-
655-8683/arts.darien.org) offers improvisation, theater games,
scene studies, and short skits. Mini-plays are rehearsed and
performed at the end of each semester. The DAC says its goal is
to provide “a voice for each student and tools that can be used
for a lifetime.”
Is there a summer camp?
The Youth Commission runs a summer camp for children
entering first through sixth grade, with sessions at different
locations in town. For details, call 203-656-7326.
The Darien Nature Center offers summer programs for
children three to five, and six to 10, with an emphasis on nature
and science. For information, call 203-655-7459/dariennature-
center.org.
The Darien YMCA at 2420 Post Road offers summer
camping programs for pre-school through school age children.
Activities include swimming, sailing and canoeing, arts and
crafts, music and drama, sports, games, gymnastics, and group
activities. There is also a swim and sail camp for special needs
children. Although Y membership is not required, members
get priority registration. For details, call 203-655-8228 or visit
online at darien-ymca.org.
February 17, 2011 Children & Teens
Methodist Family Center Preschool (203-655-7407) offers
a summer camp program.
The Darien Historical Society runs a summer camp. Call
203-655-9233.
Blue Wave Baseball offers three summer camps for children
entering first through ninth grade. Visit dybs.org and click on
Documents.
The YWCA of Darien/Norwalk offers a summer fun pro-
gram for children in June and July. Call 203-655-2535 to learn
more. The Web site is ywcadariennorwalk.org.
Who offers children’s sports?
Darien Parks and Recreation offers many youth programs
including: Future Stars Basketball program for boys and girls,
instructional soccer programs for children of all ages, golf les-
sons, swimming lessons, tennis lessons, paddle tennis lessons,
baseball, horsemanship clinics and camps, and Future Stars
Cheerleading. Call 203-656-7325 or check the brochures for
classes, programs and camps.
The Darien YMCA (203-655-8228/darien-ymca.org) has a
house basketball league for children in third to eighth grade,
emphasizing developmental skills. There is also a fourth-grade
developmental program, a travel league for fifth through eighth
grades, and a high school league. There are also programs for
younger children. There is an extensive gymnastics program,
including competitive teams, as well as field hockey for chil-
dren in third through eighth grade, and tennis for youngsters
three to nine years old. The YMCA also offers indoor and out-
door soccer programs for children in kindergarten through fifth
grade. A youth sailing program offers beginner lessons to seven-
to 12-year-olds. The Piranha Swim Team is the Darien YMCA’s
competitive swimming program for children and teens.
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darien answerbook • 49
Darien Little League is open to boys and girls 8 to 11
years old. Registration takes place in mid-winter. Darien Youth
Softball is open to boys and girls 8 to 14 years old. There are
also Tee Ball, first grade and second grade programs for both
Little League and softball. For details, visit dybs.org.
The Challenger Division of Darien Little League is for
physically disabled children. Call Charlie Santos-Buch at 203-
656-3610 or e-mail buch@ubscapital.com, or Mary Zeko at
203-655-1511 or momz2@optonline.net.
The Darien Babe Ruth League is for children 13 to 15. E-
mail Doug Webster at Jazznrnr@aol.com.
Future Stars Academy offers a baseball/softball program
through the recreation department. Call 203-656-7325.
.The Fairfield County Football League offers tackle and
flag programs for boys and girls in Darien. For information, call
visit online at fairfieldcountyfootball.org
Darien Youth Lacrosse has programs for boys and girls,
from beginner to seasoned players. There are spring games
and summer camps. Call Tom Seiler at 203-656-3421, e-mail
teseiler@gmail.com, or visit online at dylax.com.
The Darien Youth Hockey Association (dyha.com) program
is for boys and girls at the Darien Ice Rink. The season runs
from October through mid-March. There are clinics and travel
team tryouts in September. Call Jason Pniewski at 203-815-
8715 or e-mail jasonpniewski@ynhh.org.
All Star Ice Cubs Hockey offers a 10-week clinic for three-
to five-year-olds. Call 203-655-7574 or pick up a brochure at
the Darien Ice Rink.
Darien Hockey Camp, for players 5 to 18 years old, takes
place in July and August. Call the ice rink at 203-655-8251.
Darien Hockey School offers camps for all abilities and age
groups. Call Jamie at Blue Line Sports at 203-656-0324.
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50 • darien answerbook Children & Teens
The Darien Soccer Association offers programs for eight- to
14-year-olds. Call Doug Rischmann at 203-232-1587 or visit
dariensoccer.org.
The Darien Junior Sailing Team offers programs for nov-
ice to advanced-level junior sailors at Weed Beach including
instruction in Optimist sailboats for sailors 8-14 and Club 420s
for high school age sailors.
In addition to the Optimist and Club 420 sailing programs,
the sailing team has formalized its racing program to include
full-season regatta squads in both classes. These specialized
seven-week programs will build on the advanced racing tech-
niques and strategies in a concentrated competitive environ-
ment. Experienced instructors will engage local yacht clubs in
scrimmages in preparation for JSA sanctioned regattas on Long
Island Sound.
Registration forms are online at sail.darien.org. A limited num-
ber of Optimists are available for rent during each session. Refer
to the team Web site or flyers for detailed information on sched-
ules, levels, fees and forms. For information, call Lynn Sullivan,
registrar, at 203-656-1096 or e-mail dariensailing@gmail.com.
Are there any job opportunities for teenagers?
Through the Parks and Recreation Department, there are
seasonal positions available including lifeguards, paddle court
attendants, swim instructors, sailing instructors, maintenance
staff, and program staff. Call 203-656-7325.
The Darien Youth Commission sponsors the JOBS office
at Darien High School during the school year and Youth
Options (203-655-8973) during the summer. The office oper-
ates like a job bank, matching people looking for help — in
retail, as a mother’s helper, doing yard work, etc. — with young
people looking for work. For information, call 203-655-3113.
Additionally, the Youth Commission hires older teenagers as
camp counselors during vacation activity programs and sum-
mer camp.
Recreation
What local parks are there? What do they offer?
There are 12 park facilities encompassing 205 acres in town
that offer passive and active recreational opportunities. The
town also enjoys 30 acres of shoreline beaches on Long Island
Sound.
Open all four seasons, the 22-acre Weed Beach off Nearwater
Lane offer views of Long Island Sound. The park includes a
bathing area, picnic areas, six tennis courts, five paddle tennis
courts, children’s play areas, a bathhouse, a windsurfing area,
and a concession stand. The Darien Junior Sailing Program
operates at Weed Beach. Summer programs include sailing and
windsurfing lessons.
Pear Tree Point Beach is off Pear Tree Point Road at the
mouth of the Goodwives River. There is a bathing area, handi-
capped accessible picnic area with picnic tables and grills, a
gazebo overlooking Long Island Sound, a bathhouse, conces-
sion stand, boat launch ramp, and two beaches.
The Darien Boat Club makes Pear Tree Point Beach its home.
Anyone interested in a boat slip may write to Commodore of the
Darien Club, P.O. Box 121, Darien, CT 06820.
The four-acre McGuane Park is off Noroton Avenue, near
the Noroton-Heights Firehouse. The park is handicapped acces-
sible. The park’s ballfields are heavily used by Darien Little
League.
Families with young children enjoy Baker Park on Noroton
Avenue, with its playscape and play areas. There is a large
grassy area for picnics or an impromptu game of Frisbee. The
February 17, 2011
Are there any youth volunteer programs?
The Darien-Stamford Chapter of the American Red Cross
welcomes young people to join its Youth Corps. Its mission is
to contribute to the community through volunteer work, and to
promote emergency preparedness in both the youth and adults of
the community. For information, call 203-363-1041. Conneticut
Red Cross Chapter: 1-877-287-3327/ctredcross.org.
The Kids in Crisis Youth Corps are high school volunteers
who meet monthly at the Depot in Darien to plan and participate
in monthly activities for the youngest residents in the Kids in
Crisis temporary shelters (newborn to age 12). Members of the
Youth Corps may further support the agency’s mission by vol-
unteering for special events; organizing fund-raisers, clothing,
food and toy drives; raising awareness about Kids in Crisis, and
more. Call Kristen Tomasiewicz at 203-327-KIDS or ktomasie
wicz@kidsincrisis.org.
Does anyone offer a baby-sitting course?
The Red Cross offers a baby-sitting course for boys and
girls 11 to 15. Emphasized are responsibilities of a baby-sit-
ter, child developmental stages, child care, activities for young
children, accident prevention, and basic first aid. For a sched-
ule, call 203-363-1041, 203-655-2586 or go online to dsred-
cross.org or ctredcross.org.
Is there a resource of services for children?
The Darien Blue Book is a community resource guide with
information on education, healthcare, family support services,
children’s programs, and things to do. It was produced by the
Children’s Council and sponsored by the Youth Commission
and Darien Board of Realtors. Copies may be purchased at
the YWCA, YMCA, Youth Commission office, and Barrett
Bookstore.
In addition, Infoline 211, Darien Social Services, and the
Darien Youth Commission offer information.
park’s multi-purpose softball/soccer field is frequently used by
the men’s and co-ed softball leagues. Hiking trails skirt the park,
offering a walk past a variety of flowers and trees.
Cherry Lawn Park on Brookside Road is Darien’s most used
park. It has playing fields, a playground, pond, picnic area, and
the Cherry Lawn Garden. It is also the home of the Darien
Nature Center.
Other parks in town are: Town Hall & Holahan Fields,
behind town hall; Tilley Pond Park, with a pond and gazebo,
Lakeside and West Avenue; Stony Brook Park, with open
green space at Ledge Road; and Frate Park, a triangle at the
end of Leroy Avenue and Middlesex Road.
Selleck’s Woods and Woodland Park are two nature pre-
serves with walking trails. Enter Selleck’s Woods on Parklands
Drive or through Littlebrook Road. There are entrances to
Woodland Park on Middlesex Road and West Avenue
Do I need a permit to use the parks?
The Parks and Recreation spring and summer brochure
includes applications for a beach/park permit and boat launch.
Permits are issued per vehicle and are available to Darien
residents and taxpayers only. They must be displayed from
Memorial Day through Labor Day, or whenever the gatehouse
is staffed. Resident permits cost $35, and senior citizen resi-
dents receive one free permit per family. The cost for summer
residents is $100; $65 for non-resident taxpayers. A daily beach
pass is $40.
February 17, 2011 Recreation darien answerbook • 51

A boat launching permit is $45 per boat. A daily boat launch
permit is $65.
Who is in charge of Darien’s parks?
Susan Swiatek (203-656-7325) is director of Parks and
Recreation. The office is in Room 110 at town hall.
Darien also has a Parks and Recreation Commission that
meets the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m., in Room
119 of Town Hall.
Can I reserve a picnic area for a family party?
A special permit is required to reserve a section of the picnic
area. Call Parks and Recreation at 203-656-7325 for details.
Special permits are also available for Darien companies.
Is there a summer concert program?
Weed Beach is the site of a family concert series put on by
the Parks and Recreation Department. Call 203-656-7325. The
Youth Commission also puts on a series of concerts for young
people at the park. Call (203-656-7326) for details.
What kinds of town recreation programs are there?
Parks and Recreation offers programs for preschoolers through
senior citizens. Adult programs include tennis lessons, paddle
tennis lessons, golf lessons, basketball, volleyball, aerobics, and
safe boating. (For youth programs, see below.)
Programs are described in seasonal brochures mailed to all
residents and on the Web at darienct.gov/parkrec. For informa-
tion, call 203-656-7325.
Is there a community garden?
Cherry Lawn Community Gardens, in Cherry Lawn Park,
offers gardeners of all levels the opportunity to cultivate and
harvest organic herbs, flowers and vegetables from spring
through autumn. Membership applications are available at
Darien Town Hall and the Parks and Recreation Department.
The application deadline is early March. Call Sonia Smith at
203-656-1767 for details.
Where can I go swimming here?
Swimming is available at Weed Beach and Pear Tree Point
Beach. Resident stickers are required (see above). The health
department maintains a beach hotline at 203-656-7323. During
swimming season, the health department collects water samples
weekly from each of the beaches and updates the hotline with
information as to whether they are open for swimming.
The Parks and Recreation Department offers American Red
Cross swimming lessons for children of all levels of ability.
Are there any swim teams in town?
The Piranha Swim Team is the Darien YMCA’s competitive
swimming program for children and teens. For information,
call 203-655-8228, ext. 397 or e-mail Coach Henk Janson at
piranha@darien-ymca.org. The team Web site is piranhaswim-
ming.org.
While not a swim team, the YMCA’s Masters Swim
Program offers experienced adult swimmers 19 and over the
opportunity to practice competitive swimming techniques.
The group has reserved pool time for lap swimming under the
guidance of a coach. For details, call Jason Cochran at 203-
655-8228, ext. 306, e-mail jcochran@darien-ymca.org, or visit
darien-ymca.org.

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52 • darien answerbook Recreation
Where can I learn safe boating?
The Darien Sail & Power Squadron is dedicated to the edu-
cation of boaters and offers a safe boating course twice a year.
It is oriented to both sail and power boating. Graduates receive
a diploma that meets the requirements for the Safe Boating
Certificate, necessary to operate any recreational vessel in state
waters. For information: 203-656-1129 or dps.darien.org or e-
mail dsps@optonline.net.
Darien Parks and Recreation also offers safe boating
courses. Call 203-656-7325 for details.
Is there a boat club?
The Noroton Yacht Club in Darien Harbor promotes family
participation in sailboat racing and recreational sailing. There
is also a junior sailing program. Call 203-655-7686 or visit
norotonyc.org.
The Darien Boat Club, at 135 Pear Tree Point Road, is open
to member residents of Darien. The club offers slips for 260
boats, social events and a club house for private parties. For
information, call 203-655-1927 or visit darienboatclub.org.
Where can I keep a boat?
There are mooring spaces for 292 sail and power craft
throughout Darien Harbor, Noroton Bay, Zeigler’s Cove and
Scott’s Cove. The harbor master (203-852-8842) handles all
mooring applications. There are also dock spaces at the Noroton
Yacht Club and Darien Boat Club for members.
There is a public launch site for motorized boats at Pear Tree
Point Beach. Lightwater craft may be launched at Weed Beach.
Both a boat launching sticker and beach sticker are required.
Is there an adult softball program?
For information on the adult co-ed softball league, e-mail
Shawn Cordes shawn.cordes@gmail.com.
Where can I play tennis?
There are six tennis courts and five paddle tennis courts at
Weed Beach Park, off Nearwater Lane. Tennis courts are also
at Cherry Lawn Park. There are youth and adult tennis lesson
programs in the spring and summer.
Individuals and non-profits can reserve courts for a fee in
blocks of time for play. Daily reservations are not accepted,
however courts not reserved by block will be available on a
first-come, first-served basis. Call 203-655-7325.
Where can I go hiking or jogging?
The trails at Selleck’s Woods and Woodland Park are suit-
able for either pursuit.
Is there a running club here?
The Waveny Running Club welcomes fitness runners at
the intermediate level and advanced competitors. There is a
weekly workout at Waveny Park from September to mid-June
on Tuesday mornings at 9:20. Meet at Waveny Lodge near the
paddle courts. For information, visit wavenyrunningclub.com or
e-mail runwaveny@yahoo.com.
The Lightfoot Running Club in Norwalk runs various
races each year from three-mile courses to half-marathons.
For details, e-mail Don Capone at dcapone972@aol.com. The
club’s Web site is lightfootrunners.com.
Are there any bicycling clubs in the area?
Sound Cyclists runs group rides throughout Fairfield County
year round. There are social events, a newsletter, and members
are entitled to discounts at more than a dozen area bicycle
shops. For information, visit soundcyclists.com.
February 17, 2011
Threads & Treads in Greenwich sponsors a number of
cycling-related events including the Threads & Treads Tour de
Greenwich in September. Visit online at threadsandtreads.com
or call 203-661-0142 for details.
Is there a helmet law for bicyclists?
Children age 15 and under must wear a helmet when bicy-
cling in Connecticut.
Are there any scenic cycling routes?
The Connecticut Department of Transportation offers
maps of multi-use trails throughout the state as well as a state-
wide bicycle map. You may download portions of the multi-use
trails map from ct.gov/dot or you may purchase the 132-page
Pathways through Connecticut for $9.95 online.
The Connecticut Bicycle Map is available free from the state
transportation department.
Where can I go ice skating?
The Darien Ice Rink (203-655-8251/darienicerink.com) at
55 Old King Highway North, has public sessions as well as
skating school, skating parties, and hockey camp.
During the winter, you may ice skate at Cherry Lawn and
Tilley Pond Park if conditions allow. The ice depth is tested
regularly and posted. Check with the police at 203-662-5300 or
Parks and Recreation at 203-656-7325.
Is there an adult hockey league?
The Darien Winter Club is a private senior men’s ice hockey
club for ages 30 and over. There is also an over-50 team. For
information, e-mail Larry Smith at ljsmith2@sbcglobal.net or
visit online at darienwinterclub.org.
Are there any public golf courses?
There are no public courses in Darien. In Norwalk, the Oak
Hills Golf Course (203-853-8400) is at 165 Fillow Street.
Adults may take golf lessons through Parks and Recreation.
What private clubs are here?
Country clubs include the Country Club of Darien (203-
655-9726/ccdarien.org), Wee Burn (203-656-1724/public.wee-
burn.org), and Woodway Country Club (203-322-1661/wood-
way.org).
There are also Tokeneke Beach Club (203-655-1481),
Noroton Yacht Club (203-655-7686/norotonyc.org), Darien
Boat Club (203-655-1927/darienboatclub.org), Middlesex
Pool and Tennis Club (203-325-3557), and the Ox Ridge
Hunt Club (203-655-2559/oxridge.com).
Are there any health clubs in town?
The Darien YMCA, 2420 Post Road, offers a number of
fitness opportunities including swimming, aerobics, spinning,
cardiovascular and strength-training equipment, and personal
fitness programs. For information, call 203-655-8228 or visit
darien-ymca.org.
There is also Pedal & Pump (203-655-2600/pedalandpump.
com), 51 Tokeneke Road, with cardio and strength training
equipment, and personal training services. A cycle shop is next
door.
Equinox Fitness (203-655-2300/equinoxfitness.com) at 72
Heights Road offers spinning, pilates, yoga, group fitness, per-
sonal training, nutrition, a spa, and massage.
The YWCA of Darien/Norwalk, 49 Old Kings Highway
North, offers a regular series of fitness classes. Call 203-655-
2535 or visit ywcadariennorwalk.org for details.
Fitness Together (203-656-2626/prsonaltrainersinfairfield-
February 17, 2011 Recreation
county.com) at 242 West Avenue offers personalized fitness
training for men and women over age 15.
What is the Darien Nature Center?
The Darien Nature Center, in Cherry Lawn Park, is a pri-
vate, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting awareness
and appreciation of the natural world. There are offerings for
families and children of all ages including: seasonal exhibits,
live animals, a children’s nature library, children’s nature trail,
and spring-fed pond. The center is open 9 to 4 weekdays, and 9
to 1 on Saturday. Admission is free. Donations for animal care
are appreciated. For information: 203-655-7459 or dariennatu-
recenter.org.
Where can I go fishing in town?
Fishing is available in all public ponds, lakes and rivers,
unless otherwise posted. You need a license. A sport fishing
license is not required downstream from the stone dam north
of Goodwives River Road on the Goodwives River, or on the
Tokeneke Brook, downstream from Old Farm Road.
Area lakes and ponds include Blanchard Pond and Silvermine
Pond in New Canaan (part of the Silvermine River), Mill Pond
(Five Mile River) in New Canaan, and Millers Pond (Norwalk
River) and Pierrepont Pond (Naraneka Lake) in Ridgefield.
Trout streams include the Norwalk River and Silvermine
Brook.
For privately owned ponds and lakes, permission from the
owner must be obtained.
What kinds of fish can you catch here?
Brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee, largemouth
bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, northern pike, striped
darien answerbook • 53
bass, white perch, yellow perch, walleye, brown bullhead, chan-
nel catfish, whitefish are typical inland species. In Long Island
Sound, there are Atlantic bonito, Atlantic mackerel, black sea
bass, blackfish, bluefish, cunner, hickory shad, little tunny, oys-
ter toadfish, sandbar shark, cup, sheepshead porgy, striped bass,
flounder, weakfish, and skate.
Check the Connecticut Angler’s Guide for descriptions of
these fish. Free copies of the guide may be found in the town
clerk’s office in town hall.
Is the fish safe to eat?
Most types of fish caught locally may have small amounts of
mercury in them. Therefore, women who are pregnant, nursing,
planning to be pregnant, and children under six should not eat
more than one meal a month of fish caught in Connecticut rivers
and lakes. The lone exception is trout, which is safe to eat.
The Darien Health Department offers A Guide to Safe
Eating of Fish in Connecticut. Visit darienct.gov.
When does fishing season start?
You may fish year-round in Long Island Sound but for most
inland locations, the season begins the third Saturday in April
and continues through November.
Where do I get a fishing license?
Inland fishing licenses are $20 (free to seniors and the dis-
abled) and are required for anyone 16 and older. They are avail-
able at the town clerk’s office and many tackle shops. Fishing
licenses are not needed in the marine district unless you are
taking lobsters or menhaden. For details, check the Connecticut
Angler’s Guide, available free at the town clerk’s office or
online at dep.state.ct.us.
54 • darien answerbook Recreation
What do I need to get a hunting license?
A firearms hunting license costs $14, $3 for a junior (age 12
to 15) firearms hunting license. A small-game and deer archery
license is $30, $13 for juniors. Licenses may be purchased at
town hall in the town clerk’s office. Permits for hunting specific
animals are extra.
No hunting licenses will be issued without proof of a resident
license within the last five years or a certificate indicating suc-
cessful completion of a Connecticut Conservation Education/
Firearms course. Bowhunters must show proof of comple-
tion of the CE/FS bowhunting course. For details, consult the
Connecticut Hunting and Trapping Guide, call DEP at 860-424-
3011, or visit the Web site at dep.state.ct.us/burnatr.
Who teaches firearms safety courses?
Check with the town clerk, local firearms dealers, or call
the state’s Conservation Education Firearms Safety office in
Burlington at 860-675-8130.
Where can I go hunting in town?
The season for hunting deer by licensed hunters runs from
Sept. 15 to Jan. 31 with Sundays excluded. Virtually all hunt-
ing here is restricted to archery, and no hunting on public land
is allowed except by special invitation during annual organized
deer culls.
The spring turkey season is May 6-30 on state or private
land. Fall turkey bowhunting on state land runs from Sept. 15
to Nov. 17 and Dec. 23-31 The season for private land is Sept.
15 to Jan. 31.
Clubs & Organizations
I want to do some volunteer service. Where do I find
out what’s available?
There are many organizations and community groups in
Darien that rely on volunteers. Among them are the Darien News
Channel 79 (David Dever, 203-323-7786), Friendly Visitor
Program (203-656-7321), Darien Arts Center (203-655-
8683/arts.darien.org), the American Red Cross (203-655-2586,
1-877287-3327/dsredcross.org), Darien Library (203-655-
1234/darienlibrary.org), Person-to-Person (203-655-0048/p2p.
darien.org), Darien Senior Center (203-656-7455/dsac.darien.
org), Meals on Wheels (203-323-3294), Darien EMS-Post 53
(203-655-8989/post53.org), Darien Fire Department (203-
655-1216/darienfire.org), Noroton Fire Department (203-655-
0653/norotonfd.org), and Noroton Heights Fire Department
(203-655-1033/nhfd.us).
The Volunteer Center of Southwestern Fairfield County
(ucanhelp.org), with offices in Darien and Stamford, can help
match people willing to volunteer with organizations that need
them. Call 203-348-7714.
How can I get involved in the Republican or
Democratic party here?
The Republican Club of Darien is a social and educational
organization that provides a forum to discuss issues of concern,
encourages greater participation among Darien Republicans
in town affairs and the Republican Party, and encourages
Republican voter registration. The Republican Club is indepen-
dent of the Republican Town Committee. For information, visit
online at republicanclub.darien.org or e-mail republicanclubofd
arien@hotmail.com.
The Republican Town Committee consists of 21 members
February 17, 2011
May I bring a hunter on my land?
Darien landowners may invite hunters to inspect their land
so see whether hunting is suitable. There are no restrictions on
the size of the property, but hunters prefer sites with wooded
cover for their high tree stands. Firearms may not be used within
500 feet of any dwelling. Pick up the complete Connecticut
Hunting Guide and list of licensed bow hunters at the Darien
Town Clerk’s office at town hall, or call 203-655-7371.
Your hunter must show you his current CT hunting license
and carry it while hunting.
What are the hunting seasons here?
Depending on the game, hunting seasons begin and end at dif-
ferent times. Check the latest state Hunting and Trapping Guide,
available in the town clerk’s office, for details, or go online to
ct.gov/dep.
Bowhunting deer season on state land in bowhunting only
areas is from Sept. 15 to Dec. 31. On private property the sea-
son is Sept. 15-Jan. 31. Check the above Web site for shotgun
dates.
The spring turkey season is May 2-26 on state or private land.
Fall turkey bowhunting on state and private land runs from Sept.
15 to Nov. 13 and Dec. 19-31. Fall turkey firearms season is
Oct. 6-31 on state and private land.
Where can a person legally practice shooting?
There’s Shooting Sports Limited Indoor Range (203-847-
2767) on New Canaan Avenue (Route 123) in Norwalk, and the
Ramapoo Rifle and Revolver Club (203-438-2095/ramapoo.
com) on South Street in Ridgefield.
elected by Darien Republicans. The committee members nomi-
nate candidates for elected and appointed office in town. There
are meetings, special events, and social occasions throughout
the year. For information, e-mail darienrtc@ibm.net. The Web
site is darienrtc.com. The chairman is Harry Artinian (203-656-
0807).
The Democratic Town Committee supports Democratic
candidates in state and national elections and takes positions
on local issues. The committee recommends candidates for
open positions on town boards and commissions to the Board
of Selectmen. The committee also holds a fund-raising lobster
bake each June. Voters who register as Democrats will auto-
matically be contacted by the committee. Prospective members
may also call John Davis, chairman, at 203-356-1641 or Mimi
Griffith at 203-655-7940. The Web site is dtc.darien.org.
What is the Darien Community Association?
The Darien Community Association, 274 Middlesex Road,
is a nonprofit organization dedicated to philanthropic, cultural,
recreational, and educational activities. Members participate
in programs, lectures, trips, and other events. The association
makes grants to social service agencies and gives scholarships
to students in need.
For information, call 203-655-9050 or visit online at dariend-
ca.org.
Is there a Lions Club?
The Darien Lions Club (darienctlions.org) meets the second
and fourth Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m., at the Piedmont
Club, 152 Hecker Avenue, Darien. (In November and December
the meetings are the first and third Thursday.) The club, estab-
lished in 1949, is a diverse group of men and women that
February 17, 2011 Clubs & Organizations darien answerbook • 55

awards student scholarships and supports many charities, hav-

ing raised and donated “more than $3 million to critical projects ���������������������������������
in town, the state and the world,” according to the club’s Web
site. The Lions have raised money to find a cure for macular
degeneration in addition to supporting organizations close to
home including Darien EMS-Post 53 and the 60-Plus Club.
New Web site:darienctlionsclub.org.

What does the Kiwanis Club do?

Among its good works, the Kiwanis Club of Darien supports
the Kiwanis Pediatrics Institute, a service for critically injured
children. The club also offers scholarships and assists youth
groups, the Red Cross Blood Program, and Gallivant. The club
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meets Tuesdays at 12:15 at the Country Club of Darien. Visit
darienkiwanis.org or call Paul Larson at 203-846-0722.

How do I join the Rotary Club? ����������������������

Membership in the Rotary Club of Darien is by invitation.
The club supports the Darien Beautification Commission, Little ������������������������������������
League, youth hockey teams, and the Junior Achievement
Program at Darien High School; and awards scholarships to �����������������������������
high school students. The club meets every Friday at 12:15
at the Darien Library. For information, call Clay Colbath at ��������������
203-341-3500, e-mail ccolbath@sourcegrp.com, or visit rotary.
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Is there a fraternal organization?
Darien’s Masonic Club is Ivanhoe Lodge No. 107 Ancient WINEPORT OF DARIEN
Free and Accepted Masons. The Darien Masonic Club is a ����������������������������
501(c) charitable organization is open to membership from all
men 21 or over. The group meets twice a month (except July ��������������������������������������������
and August) at the Masonic Temple at 354 Post Road. Call 203-
655-2040.

What is the Piedmont Club?

The Piedmont Club, 152 Hecker Avenue, is a social club for
those of Italian descent and through marriage. For information,
call 203-655-7884.

Is there a women’s club?

The DCA Women’s Group meets for lunch and to hear a
speaker the first and third Tuesday of every month at the Darien
Community Association. For information, call 203-655-9050.

Is there a chapter of the Daughters of the American

Revolution?
Darien has the Good Wives River Chapter of the DAR.
Meetings take place the first Monday of the month., October
through May. The chapter holds a silent auction each year to
benefit DAR-maintained schools in Appalachia and Native
American schools in the Southwest. The chapter regent is Karen
Polett. For membership information, call Winifred Lom at 203-
655-0686.

What is the Junior League?

The Junior League of Stamford-Norwalk, 748 Post Road,
is a nonprofit organization of women committed to promoting
voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improv-
ing communities through the effective action and leadership of
trained volunteers. The group’s purpose is exclusively educa-
tional and charitable. Call the league’s office at 203-655-4662
or visit online at jlsn.org.

What is the American Association of University

Women?
With chapters in New Canaan and Greenwich, the American
56 • darien answerbook Clubs & Organizations
Association of University Women is the largest and oldest
national organization working for education and economic
equity for women. It provides money for study and research to
women, seeks to remove economic and cultural barriers faced
by women, and broadens the horizons of women and the com-
munity. Locally, there are programs to promote education. For
New Canaan membership information, call Barbara Davies at
203-966-2923. For Greenwich, call Sue Scannel at 203-966-
7957.
What does the League of Women Voters do?
The league is a nonpartisan organization that helps each citi-
zen have a voice in government. The league publishes informa-
tion about local government, distributes nonpartisan information
on candidates and issues at election time, assists with voter reg-
istration, and sponsors candidates’ forums. Membership is open
to men and women of voting age. Check online at lwv.darien.
org or write the league at P.O. Box 103, Darien CT 06820 or
Is there a men’s club?
The Senior Men’s Association of Darien is dedicated to
good fellowship, education, recreation and community service.
Its membership is open to men in the Darien area aged 55 or
over. Meetings are every Wednesday, September through mid-
June, at Meadowlands. Call 203-655-9050 for information or
visit online at dariendca.org and click on Groups.
Is there a group for parents?
YWCA Parent Awareness hosts speakers, panel discussions
and experts in the field of chikd rearing. Topics cover children
in preschool through high school. All programs are free and are
held in the public schools. Visit ywcadariennorwalk.org.
Mom’s Morning In is an activity program for parents/care-
givers and preschool children. The group meets Fridays at 10 at
the Darien Community Association. Call 203-655-9050 or visit
dariendca.org or call 203-655-2535.
What is the Darien Land Trust?
The primary goal of the Darien Land Trust (darienlandtrust.
org) is to preserve and protect open space in town. Currently,
the land trust owns 163 acres, with conservation easements
Entertainment
Is there a movie theater in town?
The United Artists Darien Playhouse (203-655-7655) is at
1077 Boston Post Road. There are also theaters in New Canaan,
Norwalk, and Stamford.
Several Web sites (Fandango, Movietimes, Moviefone) these
days post movie listings, times and information on tickets and
directions.
Are there any film programs?
The Darien Library offers a Friday Night Film Series and
a Wednesday matinee series. There are also films for children
during school breaks. For details, call 203-655-1234 or visit
online at darienlibrary.org.
The Darien Senior Center shows a variety of movies each
week. Call 203-656-7455.
What is the Darien Arts Center?
The Darien Arts Center is a nonprofit organization dedi-
cated to furthering education and entertainment through music,
dance, theater, and the visual arts. The center offers classes,
performances, and special events at its complex at the rear of
February 17, 2011
on another 26. For information, call executive director Shirley
Nichols at 203-655-4148 or e-mail shirleynichols@darienlandt
rust.org.
Are there any environmental groups?
The Darien Environmental Group educates people about
ways they can change their consumer and lifestyle habits to
benefit the environment. For information, visit darienenviron-
mentalgroup.org or e-mail DEG06820@optonline.net
Is there a gardening club?
The Darien Community Association sponsors The Garden
Club. Programs include lectures, panel discussions, trips, hands-
on design sessions, and bench shows. All Garden Club members
must first be members of the Darien Community Association.
For information, call 203-655-9050.
The Garden Club of Darien is part of the Garden Clubs
of America. For information, call Joan Barksdale at 203-655-
7507.
Cherry Lawn Community Gardens at Cherry Lawn Park
offers gardeners of all levels the opportunity to cultivate and
harvest organic herbs, flowers, and vegetables. Membership
is available through Darien Parks and Recreation. For details,
visit online at garden.darien.org or call Sonia Smith at 203-656-
1767.
YWCA Darien/Nowalk offers gardening classes in the
spring; taught by Darien landscaper Sara McCool. Web site:
ywcadariennorwalk.org. Phone: 203-655-2535.
What veterans organizations are in town?
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6933 (203-655-8552) is
at 205 Noroton Avenue, Noroton Heights. There is also a ladies
auxiliary.
Can anyone help me look up my family history?
The Middlesex Genealogical Society provides guidance to
people researching their family history. The society has also
established a genealogy section at the Darien Library. There
are meetings and talks throughout the year. For details, visit the
Web site at mgs.darien.org or write to the society at P.O. Box
1111, Darien CT 06820.
Town Hall on Renshaw Road.
Programs take place Monday through Saturday. The office is
open from 10 to 4 weekdays. Detailed catalogs are available.
Call 203-655-8683 or visit arts.darien.org.
Is there an amateur theatrical company?
The Darien Players, based at the Darien Arts Center, presents
four major plays each year. On occasion, original plays by local
writers are introduced at the Darien Arts Center’s Weatherstone
Studio through the Actors/Playwrights Workshops.
The Players welcomes those interested, with or without expe-
rience, to participate in the many on-stage and off-stage roles
available. For information, call the arts center at 203-655-8683
or Ron Heinbauch at 203-655-0538. You may visit online at
arts.darien.org. Click on Entertainment.
Is there a theater group?
The Darien Community Association’s Theater Group
attends Broadway show matinees three times a year. The group
travels to New York City on luxury buses, stopping at the
Metropolitan Museum and Rockefeller Center before lunch and
February 17, 2011 Entertainment
the theater. For information, visit dariendca.org and click on
Groups, or call 203-655-9050 or Poppy Holmes at 203-866-8759.
Where can I take music lessons?
The Darien Music Center (203-655-8683/arts.darien.org), 2
Renshsaw Road, offers one-on-one instruction in classical and
contemporary guitar, piano, saxophone, flute, clarinet, voice
and violin. Group workshops are also offered.
Piano and guitar lessons for ages 6 and up are available
through Darien Parks and Recreation. Call 203-656-7325.
Giuliano’s Music Center, 351 Boston Post Road, (203-656-
2155/gmusiccenter.com) offers lessons for all instruments and
voice, for all ages. There is a summer program for children.
Is there a local singing group?
The Choraliers is a show chorus sponsored by the Darien
Arts Center. The repertoire, performed under professional direc-
tion, includes American standards, show tunes, jazz ballads, and
pop songs. Shows are presented cabaret style. For information
on joining the group, call the arts center at 203-655-8683 or e-
mail ctchoraliers@darienarts.org.
The Blue Notes is a women’s singing group under the Darien
Community Association umbrella. The group sings in four-part
harmony with instrumental accompaniment. Call 203-655-
9050. For information about auditioning, call Beth Schwartz at
203-966-7326 or e-mail blue.notes.darien@gmail.com.
The Park Street Singers is a women’s choral group. Rehearsals
are held every Monday afternoon at the Congregational Church
in New Canaan, October to December, and then again January
to June. Two programs are prepared each year, a spring-fall
program and a holiday program, which are performed at nurs-
ing homes, senior centers, etc. No auditions are required. For
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darien answerbook • 57
information, call Alice Schweitzer at 203-655-7275.
The Fairfield County Chorale rehearses Monday evenings
at 7:30, in the concert hall at Norwalk City Hall. Auditions are
in early September and after any rehearsal; call 203-254-1333 .
Visit online at fairfieldcountychorale.org.
The Stamford Chorale rehearses every Tuesday, 7:15
p.m., at Atria Stamford. Auditions are not required. E-mail
thestamfordchorale@yahoo.com or visit online at stamfordcho-
rale.com.
There are many other singing groups in the area. Check The
Darien Times’ Arts and Leisure’s Trying Out section for audi-
tion or membership notices.
Are there any local orchestras?
Although there are none in Darien, four orchestras are
nearby: Greenwich Symphony Orchestra (203-869-2664/
greenwichsym.org), Stamford Symphony Orchestra (203-
325-1407/stamfordsymphony.org), Norwalk Symphony (203-
847-8844/norwalksymphony.org), and Ridgefield Symphony
Orchestra (203-438-3889/ridgefieldsymphony.org). There is
also the Norwalk Youth Symphony Orchestra (203-866-
4100/norwalkyouthsymphony.org). Concert details appear in
The Times’ Arts and Leisure section.
Where can I go to hear jazz?
Check out the Arts & Leisure section’s “After Dark” listing in
The Darien Times for coffeehouses, concerts, benefits and galas
happening at local and area restaurants, bars, college campuses,
nightclubs, etc.
Where can I go to hear folk music?
The Good Folk Coffeehouse is nearby at Rowayton United
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58 • darien answerbook Entertainment
Methodist Church, 5 Pennoyer Street. For information on
monthly performances, visit goodfolkcoffeehouse.com or call
203-864-4450.
Where can I go for cabaret-style entertainment?
Each season, the Darien Arts Center produces several caba-
ret evenings at its Weatherstone Studio behind Town Hall. The
events, which feature talent from here and other areas, include
popular music, dancing, and comedy shows. For details, call
203-655-8683 or visit arts.darien.org.
Many other clubs are listed in the Arts and Leisure section of
The Darien Times each week.
Where can I go dancing?
The Cranbury Country Dancers participate in contras and
English country dancing on the first and third Friday of the
month (except July and August), at the Cranbury Community
Chapel in Norwalk. All dances are taught and partners are not
necessary. For details, call 203-226-6681 or 203-373-9320.
Round Hill Country Dances is mostly New England contra
dances with live music and a caller. No experience or partner
necessary; the basics are taught. Dances are generally held the
second Saturday of each month except August at the Round
Hill Community House, 397 Round Hill Road. Admission
is $10. For information, call 914-238-7911, e-mail Barry.
Olmezer@broadridge.com, or visit online at roundhill.net.
The Palms in Stamford (203-961-9770/palmsnightclub.com)
offers salsa lessons and dancing on Fridays, and rumba dancing
on Saturdays.
Robin Poska’s Ballroom Magic (203-831-9382/ballroom-
magic.net) offers dance parties the first and third Saturdays at
the Round Hill Community House in Greenwich. All ballroom
dances are done, a half-hour lesson is included, singles and
couples welcome.
You can also check The Times’ Arts & Leisure section for
new listings.
Are there any art or antiques shows in town?
The annual Darien Antiques Show, sponsored by the First
Congregational Church of Darien, is held each February or
March. For information, check online at darienantiqueshow.org
or call 203-655-0491.
A fixture for more than 50 years, the Darien Art Show takes
place the first week in June at the Weatherstone Studio behind
town hall. It opens with a gala reception the first Friday evening.
The show features watercolors, oils, mixed media, photography
and sculpture with prizes from local merchants. Artists of any
age are invited to enter. Call 203-655-8683.
The Darien Historical Society presents Antiques & Garden
Elements in early June at Tilley Pond Park. Call 203-655-
9233.
There is a Spring Children’s Art Exhibit presented each
May at the Darien Library.
You can often find art on exhibit at Town Hall or the Darien
Library throughout the year.
Are there any art galleries?
Noroton Gallery at Noroton Gallery (203-655-9687/noroton-
gallery.com), 1977 Post Road, Darien, presents contemporary
and international artists.
The Geary Gallery (203-655-6633/gearygallery.com), 576
Boston Post Road, is a showcase for representational art.
Are there any museums in town?
The Bates-Scofield House is a restored classic New England
February 17, 2011
saltbox, circa 1736, owned by the Darien Historical Society. It
is currently under construction and expected to reopen in mid-
April.
The house was built around a massive central chimney, large
fireplace, and beehive oven. It features 18th and 19th-cen-
tury regional furniture. The new construction has joined the
original barn to the house with a connecting building. Tours are
offered.
The house also contains a resource library, art galleries, and
gift shop. Outside, the Darien Garden Club maintains an 18th-
century style herb garden.
The house is at 45 Old Kings Highway North. For informa-
tion, call 203-655-9233, or visit historical.darien.org.
Where can I get a guide to interesting places to go?
The Darien Times publishes a guide called 100 Things to Do,
which lists activities and places to visit within about an hour
from Darien. Call 203-438-6544 or 203-656-4230 for informa-
tion about getting a copy.
Visitors or those new to the area may call the Fairfield
County Convention & Visitor Bureau in Norwalk for tourism
information or special events. Call 203-853-7770 or visit online
at visitfairfieldcountyct.com.
Are there special events in town?
There are many including the Darien Antiques Show in
March (203-655-0491); Chamber of Commerce’s Annual
Golf Outing in May (203-655-3600); Darien’s Memorial Day
Parade (203-655-4156); the Beach Party & Family Fun Day
(203-655-3600), Darien Art Show (203-655-8683), and Darien
Historical Society’s Antiques & Garden Elements in June
(203-655-9233); Push-n-Pull Parade July 4, sponsored by the
YWCA Darien/Norwalk (203-655-2535); the July Sidewalk
Sale Days (203-655-3600); and the annual Christmas Tree
Lighting the Sunday after Thanksgiving (203-655-3600).
For other events, check The Times or its Web site, darien-
times.com, or the Darien Community Calendar maintained at
darien.org and darienct.gov.
Can I rent a hall for a party or reception?
Meadowlands, The Darien Community Association House,
which is on the National Register of Historic Places, may be
rented for group meetings, receptions, parties and weddings.
Encompassing almost eight acres, Meadowlands includes a bird
sanctuary and formal garden. For information, call the rental
office at 203-655-1054.
Is there a planetarium nearby?
The Discovery Museum (203-372-3521) at 4450 Park
Avenue, Bridgeport, has a planetarium show that changes sea-
sonally, with presentations on most afternoons. The museum
also has science and art exhibits.
The observatory at the Stamford Museum and Nature
Center on Scofieldtown Road is open Friday nights. Visit stam-
fordmuseum.org for best moon viewing nights. The planetarium
in the museum offers shows on Sundays. Call 203-322-1646 for
information.
What does the Maritime Aquarium offer?
The Maritime Aquarium on North Water Street in South
Norwalk has a variety of aquatic exhibits from harbor seals
to sharks. Permanent exhibits feature a habitat for river otters
and a “pet a live shark” display. Next door to the aquarium is
an IMAX theater. For information, call 203-852-0700 or visit
maritimeaquarium.org.
February 17, 2011 Food & Shopping darien answerbook • 59

Where can I go out to eat? Rory’s Restaurant, 203-655-9453/rorys.net;

Darien has restaurants of all sorts, including:
Backstreet Restaurant, 203-655-9944/backstreetrestaurant.
com;
Bertucci’s Italian Restaurant, 203-655-4299/bertuccis.com
Beijing, 203-662-0688;
Burgers, Shakes & Fries, 203-202-9403/burgersshakesn-
fries.com;
Coromandel Cuisine of India, 203-662-1213/coromandel-
cuisine.com;
Cosi, 203-655-0335/getcosi.com;
Chipolte Mexican Grill, 203-656-2600;
Chuck’s Steak House, 203-655-2254/chucksdarien.com;
Darien Diner, 203-655-3181;
Duchess Family Restaurant, 203-655-3312;
Friendly’s, 203-655-8467/friendlys.com;
Fuji of Japan Restaurant, 203-655-4995/fujiofjapan.com;
Giovanni’s II, 203-325-9979/giovanis.com;
The Goose American Bistro & Bar, 203-656-2600/thegoose-
darien.com;
Harper’s Restaurant & Bar, 203-202-9338/harpersdarien.
com;
Jake’s Place, 203-655-2305;
Little Thai Kitchen, 203-662-0038/littlethaikitchen.com;
Matsuri Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar, 203-655-4999/mat-
suricuisine.com;
Olé Molé, 203-202-7051/olemole.net;
Panera Bread, 203-656-1530/panerabread.com
Papa Joe’s Ristorante Italiano, 203-655-1330/papajoes-
darien.com;
Pizza, Pasta & Brew, 203-655-5151;
Planet Pizza, 203-662-9400/planetpizza.com;
Scena Wine Bar Restaurant, 203-662-3226/scenawinebar.
com;
Sugar Bowl, 203-655-1259;
Tengda Asian Bistro, 203-656-1688/tengdaasianbistro.
com;
Ten Twenty Post Oyster Bar-Bistro, 203-655-1020/tent-
wentypost.com;
The Melting Pot, 203-656-4774/meltingpot.com;
Wild Ginger, 203-656-2225.
Where can I get a pizza?
You may get a pizza at Heights Pizza, 330 Heights Road
(203-656-3200); Post Corner Pizza, 847 Post Road (203-655-
7721); Four Brothers Pizza, 25 Old Kings Highway North/
Goodwives Shopping Plaza, (203-662-9373); Papa Joe’s, 1973
Post Road (203-655-1330); Bertucci’s Brick Oven Pizza,
54 Post Road (203-655-4299), and Pizza, Pasta & Brew, 23
Tokeneke Road (203-655-5151); Planet Pizza (203-662-9400)
at 882 Post Road.
How about deli food?
Darien has several different types of delicatessens, including:
A Taste of Italy, 72 Tokeneke Road (203-655-8546); Michael
Joseph’s,1405 Post Road (203-656-9616/michael-josephs.
com); Uncle’s Deli, 1041 Post Road (203-655-9701); White
Bridge Deli, 286 Tokeneke Road (203-655-9533); Vavala’s
Deli Pizza & Catering (203-655-4370); Upper Crust Bakery

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60 • darien answerbook Food & Shopping
& Cafe, 980 Post Road (203-655-7566); and Subway, 879 Post
Road (203-656-1034).
Where can I get baked goods?
For fresh bagels, there’s Brueggers Bagel Bakery, 800 Post
Road (203-662-8010) and the UCBC (Upper Crust Bakery &
Cafe), 980 Post Road (203-655-7566/ucbcdarien.com). Fresh
donuts are at Darien Doughnut (203-656-2805) 364 Heights
Road, and Dunkin’ Donuts, 967 Post Road (203-656-3208).
Fresh baked goods are also at Good Food Good Things, 865
Post Road (203-656-1920), Panera, 1063 Post Road (203-656-
1530) and the town’s three supermarkets (see below).
Are there any caterers in town?
Good Food Good Things, 865 Post Road (203-656-1920);
Michael Joseph’s, 1405 Post Road (203-656-9616/michael-
josephs.com); Patricia Blake Catering, 7 Tokeneke Road
(203-655-1221/patriciablake.com) and Jordan Caterers, 1480
Post Road (203-655-8600/jordancaterers.com) offer catering
services. Many delis and a dozen or so restaurants also offer
catering services.
Are there any banquet facilities in town?
Water’s Edge, 2748 (203-325-9979/watersedgedarien.com)
offers waterfront meeting and banquet rooms and suites for par-
ties as large as 300.
The Darien Community Association’s Meadowlands, which
is on the National Register of Historic Places, may be rent-
ed for group meetings, receptions, parties and weddings.
Encompassing almost eight acres, it includes a bird sanctuary
and formal garden. For information, call the rental office at 203-
655-1054 or visit online at dca.darien.org.
What coffee shops are here?
The Sugar Bowl is at 1033 Boston Post Road (203-655-
1259), and Starbucks is at 815 Post Road (203-656-6943).
Also, Expresso Neat at 20 Grove Street (203-202-7215/expres-
soneat.com), Darien Doughnuts and Dunkin Donuts.
What about ice cream?
There’s Baskin-Robbins at 25 Old Kings Highway North
(203-655-8833), Gofer Ice Cream, 1014 Post Road (203-662-
1190); Friendly’s at 275 Post Road (203-655-8467) and Tasti
D-Lite, 380 Heights Road, Darien (203-656-0100).
Are there any food markets in town?
There’s Palmer’s Market, 264 Heights Road (203-655-
2077/palmersmarket.com) in Noroton Heights; Stop & Shop,
148 Heights Road (203-655-8755); Shaw’s in the Goodwives
Shopping Plaza (203-656-2259/shaws.com) Trader Joe’s at
436 Post Road (203-656-1414/traderjoes.com) and Whole
Foods Market, which opened last spring at 150 Ledge Road
(wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/darien).
Do any grocery stores deliver?
Delivery is available through Peapod when you shop online
at stopandshop.com or peapod.com.
Where can I buy fresh produce?
In addition to the above-listed food markets, the Darien
Farmers’ Market takes place on Wednesdays, 11 to 6, from
May through December, in the parking lot behind the Darien
Fire Department. For other farmers’ markets, check ctfarmfresh.
org.
February 17, 2011
Where can I get fresh fish?
The Fisherman’s Net is at 11 Old Kings Highway North
(203-655-0561), Darien Seafood Market is at 1941 Post Road
(203-655-9124) and at the supermarkets, too.
Is there a health food store in town?
Schoolhouse Nutrition is at 21 Tokeneke Road, (203-656-
8482).
Is there a newsstand in town?
The Darien News Store is at 19 Tokeneke Road (203-655-
4853), Darien Station Variety is at 873 Post Road, (203-655-
0483), and Puritan Stationery is at 1985 Post Road (203-656-
6666).
Is there a bookstore in town?
There is Barrett Bookstore, 314 Heights Road (203-655-
2712/barrettbookstore.com). Gilann Books offers sales and
appraisals of used and rare books by appointment (203-655-
4532/gilannbooks.com).
Does the town have a sidewalk sale?
The Darien Chamber of Commerce sponsors a sidewalk
sale each year, usually the first or second weekend in July.
Thursday is preview day in the stores, and then the sale gets
underway on Friday and Saturday. There is entertainment and
the chamber raffles gift certificates. Many merchants have par-
ticipated in the Chamber’s Indoor Sidewalk Sales event in early
February. For information, call 203-655-3600.
What is the Darien Gift Certificate?
The Darien Gift Certificate is a program to encourage shop-
ping at local businesses in Darien. Gift certificates are available
in varying amounts and may be used at participating chamber
members. They may be purchased at the chamber office (203-
655-3600) or at one of the following banks: Darien Bank and
Trust, Fairfield County Bank, Darien Rowayton Bank, Patriot
National Bank, Peoples Bank, and Webster Bank. For details,
visit online at DarienChamberOnline.com and click on Gift
Certificate.
Where can I get a haircut?
Many places, including: A Head of Time Hair Designs,
408 Boston Post Road (203-655-4638); Elegance Salon of
Beauty, 1958 Post Road (203-655-5171); Frederic & Co.,
1060 Post Road (203-656-6695); John Thomas Hair Studio,
874 Post Road (203-656-3048); Lanphier Day Spa, 25 Old
Kings Highway North (203-656-4444/lanphierdayspa.com);
Making Waves Hair Salon, 37 Tokeneke Road (203-655-
2418); Peartree’s Salon of Beauty, 1950 Post Road (203-655-
7444); and Salon Louis, 1979 Post Road (203-655-3903); TLC
Hair Designs, 26 Heights Road (203-656-2093).
Where can I get something dry cleaned?
There’s Belle Cleaners, 22 Heights Road (203-655-8279);
Butler’s Laundromat & Cleaners, 11 Old Kings Highway
North (203-655-6590 ); Darien Cleaners & Drapery Service,
351 Post Road (203-655-3901); Darien Cleaners & Laundry,
1086 Post Road (203-655-2920); Darien Fabricare Cleaners,
312 Heights Road (203-655-3381); Darien Tailors & Cleaners,
31 Tokeneke Road (203-655-9086); Fred & Dolly’s Cleaning
Station, 977 Post Road (203-662-0227); Imperial Cleaners &
Launderers, 25 Old Kings Highway North (203-655-9311);
JEM Lee Cleaners & Chinese Hand Laundry, 10 West
Avenue (203-655-2785); Linden Cleaners & Launderers,
22 Heights Road (203-655-1333); Sanda’s Dry Cleaners,
February 17, 2011 Food & Shopping
166 Heights Road (203-656-3539); and Spotless Cleaners, 9
Tokeneke Road (203-655-5128).
Where can I rent or buy a tuxedo?
For a tuxedo, try Edward Tunick, 340 Heights Road (203-
655-1688).
Who offers laundry service?
Darien Cleaners & Laundry, 1086 Post Road (203-655-
2920); and Jem Lee Cleaners & Chinese Hand Laundry, 10
West Avenue (203-655-2785).
Are there any laundromats in town?
There are coin-operated machines at Butler’s Laundromat
& Cleaners, 11 Old Kings Highway North (203-655-6590).
Is there a car wash in town?
Darien Car Clinic is at 93 Post Road (203-655-6430).
Splash The Hand Wash of Darien (203-655-8778/splashcar-
washes.com) is at 251 Post Road
Are there any garden shops?
The Gardener’s Center & Florist at 1396 Post Road (203-
655-2549/gardenerscenter.com); Nielsen’s Florist and Garden
Shop (203-655-2541/nielsensflorist.com) at 1405 Post Road
and Flowers & Flowers at 876 Post Road (203-662-9666/flow-
ersandflowers.net).
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darien answerbook • 61
Where can I rent party supplies?
There are Darien Party Rentals at 365 Post Road (203-655-
3931); and the Rainbow Shoppe, 836 Post Road (203-655-
7200).
Where can I buy toys or children’s clothes?
For toys, there’s the Learning Express in the Goodwives
Shopping Center (203-656-8697/darien.learningexpress-toys.
com); Darien Toy Box, 1064 Post Road (203-202-2992/dari-
entoybox.com).
Selling clothes for children are the Darien Sport Shop,
1127 Post Road (203-655-2575/dariensport.com); The Rugged
Bear, Goodwives Shopping Plaza (203-655-0664/ruggedbear-
online.com); and WishList, 1101 Post Road (203-655-0050/
shopwishlist.com).
Is there a thrift shop in town?
The Darien Community Association Thrift Shop (203-
655-4552) is at 996 Post Road, where it has stood since
1946. (The shop originally opened on West Avenue during
the Depression.) The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday
from 10 to 4. Donations may be brought in during store hours.
Clothing in season and furniture (pickup of small items may be
arranged) are accepted. Everything must be in good condition.
Proceeds support the association’s philanthropic activities and
scholarship program. Tax-deduction slips are available. To vol-
unteer, call 203-655-9050.
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62 • darien answerbook Business
What does the Chamber of Commerce do?
The Chamber of Commerce, at 10 Corbin Drive is a non-
profit business financed by membership dues with the purpose
of serving the town of Darien. It is committed to taking a lead-
ership role in supporting the business community and quality
of life here.
The chamber acts as a liaison between the business com-
munity and local, state, and federal governments. It notifies
members of legislation that will directly affect business in
Darien. It offers educational and networking opportunities to
help businesses grow, and it creates a regional awareness of
the business community. It also promotes the town to prospec-
tive residents.
The chamber sponsors or coordinates two scholarship
awards, July SideWalk Sales & Family Fun Days, Darien Goes
Green, Fall Wine Tasting & Auction, the traditional Christmas
tree lighting celebration and other events throughout the year.
The office may be reached at 203-655-3600 or e-
mail DarienChamber@optonline.net. The Web site is
DarienChamberOnline.com.
Who protects consumers?
The local Better Business Bureau is in Wallingford. For
information, call 203-269-2700. You may file a complaint
online at connecticut.bbb.org or call for information.
Consumers may also file a complaint about a business by
calling the state Department of Consumer Protection hotline
at 800-842-2649 or visiting state.ct.us/dep. Written complaints
may be mailed to 165 Capitol Avenue, Hartford 06106.
Is there a professional group?
The Darien Professionals Network holds monthly meet-
ings to provide career development information for executives
from all industries and job functions who are underemployed,
employed and seeking to stay networked, employed but will-
ing and able to help those who need career guidance, and in a
job transition. Information: info@darienprofessionals.com or
darienprofessionals.com.
What are the top 10 taxpayers in town?
The top 10 taxpayers and their assessments (2008 grand list)
are: 1. Connecticut, Light, And Power — $57,430,880; 2 .The
Wee Burn Country Club, Inc. — $48,402,600; 3. The Country
Club of Darien, Inc. — $46,730,840; 4. Darien Financing LLC,
FKA Avalonbay — $36,191,260; 5. Woodway Country Club
— $25,616,900; 6. Rivoire, Est Helen M. et al — $22,249,220;
7. Zotos International, Inc. — $21,202,980; 8. U B Darien, Inc.
— $19,906,740; 9. 9 Old Kings Highway, LLC — $17,352,860;
10. Parklands Office Park, LLC — $15,457,820
What banks are there in town?
Bank of America, 1120 Post Road, 800-432-1000, banko-
famerica.com.
Bank of America, 7 Sedgewick Avenue, 800-432-1000,
bankofamerica.com.
Chase, 454 Post Road, 203-655-8344, chase.com.
Chase, 165 Noroton Avenue, 203-662-0828, chase.com.
Citibank, 40 Heights Road, 800-627-3999, citibank.com.
Darien Bank & Trust, 777 Post Road, 203-656-0699,
ccbankonline.com.
Darien Rowayton Bank, 1001 Post Road, 203-656-3500,
drbankonline.com.
Fairfield County Bank, 714 Post Road, 203-656-2265, fair-
fieldcountysavings.com.
First County Bank, 1006 Post Road, 203-655-3944, first-
countybank.com.
February 17, 2011
Patriot National Bank, 800 Post Road, 203-202-7450, pnb-
directonline.com.
People’s Bank, 72 Edgerton Street, 203-655-9748, peoples.
com and 25 Old Kings Highway North, 203-655-7617, peoples.
com.
TD Bank, 55 Boston Post Road, 203-662-8000, tdbank.com.
Wachovia, 950 Post Road, 203-655-7220, wachovia.com and
310 Heights Road, 203-655-3455, wachovia.com.
Webster Bank, 1101 Post Road, 203-656-4070, webster-
bank.com.
Where can I get copies made and things printed?
For copies, you can go to Executive Printing Inc., 1082
Post Road, (203-655-4691) or The UPS Store, Goodwives
Shopping Plaza (203-655-6543/theupsstore.com).
Local printers include D’Iorio Printing Service, 10 Center
Street (203-656-0557); and Executive Printing Inc., 1082
Post Road (203-655-4691).
For announcements or invitations, try Innovative
Invitations of Darien, 178 Heights Road (203-655-7332).
Where is the post office and when is it open?
Darien has two post offices. The Darien Post Office, at 30
Corbin Drive (800-275-8777) is open from 8 to 5:30 Monday
through Friday, and 8 to 12:30 on Saturday.
The Noroton Heights Post Office, at 368 Heights Road
(203-655-0631) is open from 8:30 to 4:30 (closed from 11 to
noon), Monday through Friday. It is closed on Saturday.
The UPS Store has a 24-hour mailbox service. Call 203-
655-6543.
Where can I buy stamps besides at a post office?
You can buy stamps at The UPS Store, Goodwives
Shopping Plaza (203-655-6543), and CVS (203-655-2865) 964
Post Road.
Where can I rent meeting space?
The Darien Community Association’s Meadowlands,
which is on the National Register of Historic Places, may be
rented for group meetings, receptions, parties and weddings.
Encompassing almost eight acres, it includes a bird sanctuary
and formal garden. For information, call the rental office at
203-655-1054 or visit online at dca.darien.org.
Office Suites of Darien, 30 Old Kings Highway South,
provides executive offices fully furnished with phone and
Internet service by the day, week, month, or year. Along with
conference rooms and a meeting room with theater seating
and videoconferencing services, there is a full-service business
center with secretarial service, PowerPoint, copy machines,
binding, mailing, etc. Call 203-655-2603.
Who welcomes newcomers?
New Neighbors brings local information to new residents
to help make getting settled easier and includes information
on the YWCA Newcomers Club, and other organizations as
well as brochures and samples from local retailers. Call Susan
Cator at 203-655-8429, newneighbors@optimum.net, or Linda
Smith at 203-655-4450, lnewneighbors@aol.com.
The Town Greeter brings civic and local information to
new residents, including brochures and discount offers for
local retailers. For information, call Barbara Dahill at 203-966-
4359.
The YWCA Newcomers Club offers social activities, rec-
reational programs, and special events for women new to the
community. Call 203-655-2535 or e-mail Newcomers@YWC
Adariennorwalk.org.
February 17, 2011 Utilities
Where does our water come from?
While most Darien households have private wells, about one-
third of the town is served by Aquarion (800-732-9678), with
offices in Greenwich. The Web site is aquarion.com.
What is an average water company bill?
Residential customers are charged $3.37 for the first 100
cubic feet (748 gallons) of water and $3.29 per 100 cubic feet
after that. There is also a service charge based on the size of the
meter. The most common rates range between $33 and $45 per
quarter.
How much does sewer service cost?
The costs are based on water consumption. The department of
public works receives consumption information from the water
company. It then takes the two lowest quarters, multiplies by
two, and then by the rate of $4 for every 100 cubic feet con-
sumed. The bill covers a year in advance based on the previous
year’s usage.
If someone has a private well for water but is on the sewer
system, they are charged the average of residential users. A
meter can be installed on the well at the homeowner’s request
and then the bill would be adjusted and based on the meter read-
ing. Homeowners with a question about their bill are encour-
aged to call the sewer commission at 203-656-7331. Abnormal
charges can indicate a water break.
How much would it cost me to hook up to the
town’s sewer system?
A sewer permit is $150, and is obtained from the sewer com-
mission, which has its office at the Department of Public Works
in town hall. If there is work to be done inside the home, that
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darien answerbook • 63
would require a permit from the building department, obtained
by the homeowner’s plumber at the homeowner’s expense. The
final hookup from the main line under the street to the house is
at the homeowner’s expense.
Connecting to the sewer system is at the homeowner’s dis-
cretion. Houses are not required to be hooked up unless there
is a problem with the septic system.
What cable television service is available?
Cablevision of Connecticut (203-847-6666), 28 Cross Street,
Norwalk, serves Darien and offers a variety of packages. The
Web site is cablevision.com.0
Can I get propane gas delivered to my home?
There are a number of suppliers, including The Rural Gas
Company (203-261-3641/ruralgas.com); Petro Fuels (800-
645-4328/petrohp.com); and Hocon (1-800-801-3835/hocon-
services.com).
Where can I get fuel oil locally?
In town, there are Sound Energy (203-661-6010), Dominick
Fuel Inc. (203-655-8255/dominickfuel.com), Darien Fuel Co.
(203-655-3045), and Herbert Fuel (203-655-9744). There
are also Servco Oil (203-762-7994/servcooil.com) in Wilton;
Rowayton Fuel & Oil Co. (203-866-9616) in Norwalk; and L.
H. Gault (203-227-5181/gaultinc.com) in Westport.
Who handles trees leaning on power lines?
Call the public works department at 203-656-7346 and
Conneticut Light & Power at 800-285-2000. CL&P has “Storm
Center” information on its Web site, cl-p.com.
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64 • darien answerbook Pets & Animals
Where do I get a dog license?
The town clerk’s office (203-656-7307) in the Darien Town
Hall, 2 Renshaw Road. All dogs must be licensed by the time
they are six months old.
A valid rabies certificate is required. The cost is $19 for non-
spayed or non-neutered dogs, and $8 if your dog’s been spayed
or neutered. Dogs must by licensed by July 1, and by state law,
there is a $1 penalty imposed for each month past July the dog
is unlicensed.
Cats aren’t required to be licensed, but cats must be immu-
nized against rabies.
My dog is lost. Where can I get help?
Call the dog warden, Chip Stahl, at 203-655-8686. If the
dog’s been missing more than 24 hours it’s a good idea to call
the animal control officers in neighboring towns.
What should I do if a loose dog is on my property,
chasing my kids or cats?
Call the dog warden at 203-656-8686.
What is the law regarding roaming dogs?
State law prohibits dogs from roaming on someone else’s
private property or on any portion of a public highway when
not attended by an owner and 100% under the owner’s control.
Allowing your dog to roam could get you a $92 fine
It is illegal to allow a dog to soil another person’s property
and this can net the dog owner a $75 nuisance fine.
Dogs are allowed at most town parks, such as Woodlands
Park, Sellecks Woods, Tilley Pond Park, and Cherry Lawn Park.
They are not allowed at any time at either Weed Beach or Pear
Tree Point Beach
The state considers cats to be feral by nature, and because of
that, local and state animal control officers don’t pick them up.
Does anyone offer dog obedience classes?
Ox Ridge Obedience Training offers a number of classes
from spring through fall, outdoors, at the First Presbyterian
Church in New Canaan. For details, call Jane McLane at 203-
966-3851.All for the Dog, 74 Hoyt Street, offers dog obedience
training. Call 203-327-3157.
Are there animal hospitals in town?
There is the VCA Darien Animal Hospital, 1302 Post Road,
Darien (203-655-1449/vcadarien.com) provides full medical,
surgical and dental services, boarding and more. Park Animal
Hospital, 168 Noroton Avenue, Darien (203-655-7795/parkani-
malhospital.com) is a full service hospital in town. It also has a
Norwalk location (17 Park Street/203-849-7733).
Where can I take my pet in an emergency?
Park Animal Hospital (see above) offers a 24-hour emer-
gency service.
Veterinary Referral and Emergency Clinic (203-854-
9960), 134 West Cedar Street, Norwalk, is open 24 hours.
If your pet has eaten something poisonous and you can’t
reach your own veterinarian right away, you can call the
ASPCA Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435. It is staffed
24 hours, but there is a $60 consultation charge..
Where can I board my dog?
You can board your dog at Park Animal Hospital or VCA
Darien Animal Hospital (203-656-1449).
Or, if you’d rather Fifi stay home while you’re away, The
Sitting Service, 1031 Post Road, offers pet sitting services in
your home. Call 203-655-9783 or visit thesittingservice.com.
February 17, 2011
What should I do before boarding my pet?
Check with the kennel to see what vaccinations are required.
Most require dogs to be immunized against rabies, distemper,
and bordatella. Cats generally require vaccinations against
FVRCP, rabies, and feline leukemia.
Where can I adopt a dog or cat?
The dog pounds in towns like Norwalk or Stamford are good
places to start. There’s also Strays and Others (203-966-
6556/straysandothers.petfinder.com) in New Canaan, the no-
kill Animals in Distress cat shelter (203-762-2006) next door
to Wilton Town Hall on Danbury Road, Pet Animal Welfare
Society (203-750-9572/pawsct.org) in Norwalk, the Connecticut
Humane Society (203-227-4137), Save Our Strays (203-255-
0514) in Westport. Many animal rescue groups also list adopt-
able animals on petfinder.com.
What about horses?
All horses must live in stables or barns. For more complete
information about setbacks, etc., call planning and zoning at
203-656-7351.
Where can I get riding lessons or board a horse?
The Ox Ridge Hunt Club is at 512 Middlesex Road. Call 203-
655-2559 or visit oxridge.com for information.
What is Friends of Animals?
Friends of Animals is a nonprofit, international animal
advocacy organization based in Darien. It works to cultivate a
respectful view of animals, free-living and domestic. For infor-
mation, visit friendsofanimals.org or call 203-656-1522.
What is the town doing to control deer herds?
The Darien Deer Management Committee collects scien-
tific data and develops ways to reduce the over-abundant deer
population. Concerns involve tick-borne diseases, deer-vehicle
collisions, plus damage to woodlands and landscapes through
over-foraging. To curtail the spread of Lyme disease the com-
mittee reports the deer density must be reduced. For more infor-
mation , visit darienct.gov. Darien is a member of a Fairfield
County group that deals with the health, safety, and ecological
issues relating to the county deer population. For information,
visit deeralliance.com.
There appears to be an abandoned fawn in my yard.
What should I do?
Definitely do not touch it or move it as your scent will scare
off the mother, who may be hiding nearby. Nearly all “aban-
doned” fawns are truly not abandoned. Deer will leave their
fawns for periods of time. Often, deer give birth in the middle
of the night and leave the fawn during the day, particularly
if people are around. The fawn’s camouflage helps protect it
from predators. If there is a dead doe nearby the fawn may be
orphaned. Call DEP at 860-424-3011.
Are there any wildlife rehabilitators nearby?
Yes. Wildlife in Crisis (203-544-9913) helps rehabilitate
orphaned, sick and injured wildlife. The organization is always
looking for volunteers and donations. The mailing address is
P.O. Box 1246, Weston 06883.
In Ridgefield is Back to the Wild Rehabilitation Inc. (203-
438-0618/backtothewildrehab.com).
Also, check online at wildlifeorphanage.org, which has
information on common wild animals and their habits. The
Connecticut Wildlife Rehabilitators Association can be
reached at 203-389-4411.
February 17, 2011 Transportation
How many cars and trucks are registered in town?
There are nearly 17,800 passenger vehicles registered in
Darien, according to the assessor’s office. The assessor works
closely with the Department of Motor Vehicles annually estab-
lishing the average retail value using the NADA price guide as
recommended by the state office of Policy and Management and
the Connecticut Assessors Association. The DMV establishes
values for most vehicles giving special attention to the 17-digit
vehicle identification number. In situations where the VIN num-
ber isn’t easily identified, the assessor identifies and prices each
car, truck or trailer using a variety of price guides and sets final
assessments at 70% of value for each Oct. 1. Vehicles that are
sold or replaced are assessed on a monthly pro-rated basis and
are annually reconciled on what is called the supplement Motor
Vehicle list.
How many miles of roads are there in Darien?
There are nearly 82 miles of town roads and 11 miles of state
roads in Darien.
How can I find out about road closures?
You can check for road closures in town by logging onto
municipalclosures.com/darien. You can also sign up for
Darien Times news alerts by going to DarienTimes.com.
Who maintains and plows our roads?
Darien’s Department of Public Works (203-656-7346)
is responsible for building and maintaining the town’s roads,
streets, bridges, storm sewers, sanitary sewers and other related
components. Under the direction of Robert Steeger, the depart-
ment includes 30 full-time and five part-time employees.
State roads are maintained by District 3 of the Connecticut
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darien answerbook • 65
Highway Department (203-389-3020).
What are the typical speed limits in town?
The speed limit is 35 miles per hour on the Post Road and 25
miles per hour on most other roads in town.
What’s the fine for speeding here?
All fines for motor vehicle infractions and violations are set
by the state and published in a booklet available in most public
libraries, police departments, and DMV offices. It is also avail-
able online at jud.ct.gov/Publications/Infractions/infractions.
pdf.
Speeding tickets for cars going over 55 miles per hour range
from $123 for going one to nine mph over the posted limit to
$211 for 23 mph and over the posted limit. Fines are higher for
construction, utility, and school zones. Traveling unreasonably
fast pertains to cars going under 56 mph. The fines in this brack-
et range from $103 for one to nine mph over the posted limit
to $191 for 23 or more mph over the limit, again with greater
penalties for construction, utility and school zones.
What’s the fine for passing a school bus?
Passing a standing school bus will cost you a hefty $460, and
that’s for a first offense.
Where are the train stations?
The Darien Train Station is on West Avenue; the Noroton
Heights station is on Noroton Avenue. Both serve the New
Haven Line of Metro-North. The nearest handicap-accessible
stations are in Stamford and South Norwalk. Travel time for the
train into Grand Central Terminal is about an hour from Darien,
a few minutes less from Noroton Heights. The fare for travel
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66 • darien answerbook Transportation
to Grand Central Terminal with tickets bought at the station is
the same for either station: one-way peak, $12.25; one-way off-
peak, $9.25; senior one-way, $6. Fares are significantly higher
if bought on the train. A monthly commutation ticket is $264.
You may also purchase tickets online at mta.info.
The Darien ticket office is open Monday through Friday from
6:10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (it’s closed from 11 to 11:20). At Noroton
Heights, there is no staffed ticket office. There is a concession
stand. There are two ticket machines at each station.
Train schedules are available at the stations, by calling 800-
638-7646 or online at mta.info.
Amtrak trains can be boarded at Westport, Norwalk, or
Stamford. For information, call 800-872-7245 or go online to
amtrak.com.
Where can I park in town?
There are approximately 1,680 permit, metered, and voucher
parking spaces available at municipal lots throughout town, and
at the Darien and Noroton Heights train stations.
How do I get a permit to park at the train station?
Even though the town sells more permits than there are park-
ing spaces, there is still a long waiting list for both train stations.
When a spot becomes available, the next person on the list
moves up. The cost is $315. There are 775 permit and voucher
spaces at the Noroton Heights station and 544 spaces available
for the Darien station (including municipal lots on Leroy and
Grove). For information, call 203-656-7330.
Is there free municipal parking?
There is free parking in the train station parking lots on week-
ends and holidays, as well as in town municipal lots. Weekends
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February 17, 2011
are free in the Koons’ Lot, also known as the West Avenue lot.
How does the parking voucher system work?
Parking vouchers are for use in designated spaces at the com-
muter parking lots and both train stations. They are sold for
$3 each or in books of 10 for $30. They may be purchased at
either train station until 9, Darien Produce at 27 Tokeneke Road,
Station Variety at 873 Post Road, or Leary’s Liquor Cabinet at
186 Heights Road. If you need more information, call the town
hall receptionist at 203-656-7330.
Where can I park overnight?
Parking for up to five days at a time is allowed at the train
stations. If using vouchers, you would need to display a voucher
for each day.
How do I get a handicap parking permit?
Apply at the DMV in Stamford or Norwalk. Proof of disabil-
ity with form B-225 is required. Call 800-842-8222 for informa-
tion, or the Department of Social Services at 203-656-7328.
Where is the closest motor vehicle department?
The closest full-service office is in Norwalk at 540 Main
Avenue. The office is open from 8 to 4:30 on Tuesday,
Wednesday and Friday; 8 to 7 on Thursday; and 8 to 12:30
on Saturday. There is also a satellite office at the Stamford
Government Center, 888 Washington Boulevard, Stamford,
open from 8 to 4:30 on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday;
and 8 to 7 on Thursday. Limited services include license and
registration renewals, replacement of photo licenses and lost
plates, name changes, non-driver identification cards, driver test
appointment applications, and handicap parking permits.
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February 17, 2011 Media
What newspapers cover the town?
The Darien Times, a Hersam Acorn Newspapers weekly
founded in 1993, and The Darien News-Review, also a weekly,
report news of the town in print and online.
How can I get an announcement in the papers?
The Darien Times (203-656-4230/DarienTimes.com) wel-
comes letters to the editor, business, community, school, social,
religious groups’ news and the like. E-mail your submissions
to editor@darientimes.com, call us or drop by our office at 10
Corbin Drive, Darien. Include daytime contact information.
Send sports news to sports@darientimes.com. The Times has
a free guide on doing publicity releases at DarienTimes.com.
Circulation information: 203-894-3309 or 800-372-2790.
For the News-Review, call 203-655-7476.
How do I get an ad in the Times?
For a classified advertising, call 1-800-372-2790 (e-
mail: classified@hersamacorn.com). For display advertis-
ing, call Elizabeth Cote (203-966-9541, ext. 106, for real
estate advertising) and Lauren Spicehandler (203-966-9541,
ext. 114), account executives. Ms. Cote’s e-mail address is
ecote@hersamacorn.com and Ms. Spicehandler’s is lspicehand
ler@hersamacorn.com.
How can I voice my opinion about what appears in the
newspaper?
The editorial staff of The Darien Times invites readers and
others to drop by its weekly editorial meeting every Thursday
morning, 10 to 11, at the Sugar Bowl. Each week the staff cri-
tiques the paper and discusses stories for the upcoming week.
Visitors may simply listen or voice their opinion.
Can I read The Darien Times online?
Those looking for the latest Darien news can find it on The
Darien Times’ recently revamped online site, DarienTimes.
com; those looking for stories from previous issues can find
them in the same place.
For the latest, up-to-the-minute news, sign up for Breaking
News from The Darien Times. Visit DarienTimes.com and click
on Sign Up for Breaking News in the upper left-hand corner.
Readers may also follow hometown news coverage by signing
up on Twitter/DarienTimes and Facebook/DarienTimes, and
now our news reports and Web site is accessible from mobile
smart phones.
Page one stories, and the top sports stories from the current
week’s issue of The Darien Times are available on the paper’s
home page and remain accessible at no charge for several
weeks. The entire content of the newspaper is added to the
archive within about two weeks after publication.
The Times’ archives are searchable by going to darientimes.
com and clicking on “Print Archives” at the bottom of the
page. Users may then search for information going back as far
as June 2003. Just enter a keyword or phrase, choose a time
frame (or search all available years), and click “search.”
The first few paragraphs of all articles that match the search
criteria entered are available for previewing. To access the entire
article, several pricing options are available. Pictures from The
Times are not available through the archive, but may be ordered
by calling 203-656-4230, or e-mailing editor@darientimes.
com.
All obituaries going back to September 2005, an up-to-date
calendar, useful Web links, and the Darien Answerbook, as
well as access to the Hersam Acorn classifieds, real estate list-
ings, and the top stories from the Arts & Leisure section and
special monthly supplements are also available at no charge on
darien answerbook • 67
The Times’ Web site.
DarienTimes.com also includes such features as “Improve
Darien,” where residents can report potholes, broken traf-
fic lights and other road problems. There are also “Article
Reprints” and “Photo Store” sections.
Where can I search the Internet for free?
The Darien Library offers computer stations with Internet
access.
How can I find local Web sites?
There is a listing of local Web sites right here in the
Darien Answerbook. The Darien Community Information
Network (darien.org) offers links to many community groups.
A sampling of other interesting information sites and blogs:
AllAboutDarien.com; AFADarien.com (real estate guide);
TheGoldCoastStandard.com.
What radio stations carry news of Darien?
Both WNLK (1350 AM) and WEFX (95.9 FM) in Norwalk
and KOOL (96.7FM) in Stamford cover some Darien news,
sports, weather and personalities.
Are there any local television news programs?
Channel 12 on Cablevision (849-1321) is based in Norwalk
and covers Darien news.
Darien News Channel TV 79 is the town’s government
access channel provided by Cablevision. Two areas of town
hall — Room 206 and the auditorium — have been wired for
the live telecast of certain meetings. Meetings — Board of
Selectmen, Board of Education, Board of Finance, Planning
and Zoning, etc. — are also aired on a tape delay. The station is
run by an all-volunteer crew and receives no taxpayer money.
There is a guideline book for submissions. Call David Dever
at 203-323-7786 or Jim Cameron at 203-655-0138 or e-mail
channel79@darienct.gov. For the schedule, tune in Channel 79
or visit online at darienct.gov/tv79. For a free program guide,
e-mail channel79@darienct.gov.
Blue Wave TV Educational Access Channel 78 is based at
Darien High School. The station airs programming related to the
Darien public schools. Most of it is high school-related since
the video production courses are there, but the station is happy
to air concerts and assemblies from the middle and elemen-
tary schools as well. A video bulletin board carries high school
events and announcements.
Do any specialty publications cover our area?
Fairfield County Weekly (203-382-9666/fairfieldweekly.
com) covers activities, arts and point of view news in the state
and is free.
Connecticut Magazine (860-524-1020/connecticutmag.com)
is a monthly that covers the state.
Connecticut Parent (203-483-1700/ctparent.com), published
monthly, is available at libraries, schools, YMCA’s, child care
centers, hospitals, doctors’ offices, and other family-oriented
retail locations.
Fairfield County Business Journal (914-694-3600/fairfield-
countybusiness.com), published weekly, contains business news
of the county.
New Canaan-Darien Magazine (203-222-0600/ncdmag.
com) is a bimonthly magazine with news and features of the area.
The Official Connecticut State Vacation Guide (including
a special section on Fairfield County) is an interactive online
guide available at the state tourism bureau Web site, ctvisit.
com. You can also go to visitfairfieldcounty. com or call 860-
567-4506.
68 • darien answerbook Reader’s Index February 17, 2011

100 Things to Do, 58 Caregivers, 30, 39, 41 Darien Masonic Club, Book Club, 39, 42, 42, 43, 48
211, 29 Carrier Alert, 44 55 43, 44 License, dog, 64
60 Plus Club, 44 Cars, 65 Darien Nature Center, Friendly Visitors, 44 License, driver’s, 65, 66
AARP, 44 Catholic Family 53 Fuel oil, 63 License, fishing, 53
ABC program, 23 Services, 39 Darien Players, 56 Funeral homes, 28 License, hunting, 54
Activities, school, 22 Caterers, 48 Darien Post Office, 14, Garbage collection, 31 License, marriage, 13
Affordable Housing Cats, 64 62 Garden shops, 61 LifeLine, 44
Advisory Cell phones, 34, 38 Darien Professionals Gardening clubs, 56 Lions Club, 54
Commission, 14, 16 Cemeteries, 6, 28 Network, 62 Genealogy, 56 Magazines, 67
After-school programs, Center for Hope, 30, 39 Darien Sail & Power Gifted students, 20, 23 Marriages, 13
22 Chamber of Commerce, Squadron, 52 Golf, 22, 44, 49, 51, Masons, 55
Aging in Place in 58, 60, 62 Darien Senior Center, 52, 58 McGuane Park, 50
Darien, 29 Cherry Lawn Garden, 26, 42, 43, 44, 54, 56 Governor, 17 Meals on Wheels, 44
Alarm registration, 34 50, 64 Darien Senior Men’s Hair salons, 60 Medical equipment, 28,
Ambulance service, 34 Cherry Lawn Park, 50, Association, 56 Hall rentals, 62 41, 44
American Association 64 Daughters of the Hazardous waste, 32 Medicare, 46
of University Women, Child Guidance Center, American Revolution, Health department, 31, Meeting spaces, 62
55 42, 43, 48 56 32, 39, 42, 43, 51 Men’s club, 54, 55, 56
American Cancer Children’s services, 48 Day care, adult, 45 Health food, 60 Mental illness, 30, 43
Society, 42, 43 Chore service, 39 Day care, children, 48 Health services, 39, 42, Middlesex Parish, 6
American Red Cross, Churches, 46 Delis, 59 43 Military communica-
39, 42, 44, 50, 54 Clubs, health, 52 Democrats, 14, 15, 54 Healthcare, senior, 45 tions, 38
Animal hospitals, 64 Clubs, private, 54, 55 Depot, The, 48, 50 Higher Ground Movies, 44, 56
Animal shelters, 64 Coastal Waters Advisory DMV, 65 Ministry, 47 Museums, 58
Antiques shows, 58 Commission, 15 Doctors, 39 Hiking, 50, 52 Music lessons, 57
AP courses, 21 Coffee shops, 60 Dogs, 64 Historian, town, 8 National Register of
Aquarion, 63 Colleges, 14, 21, 25 Domestic violence, 29, Historic districts, 8 Historic Places, 8, 58,
Area code, 10 Commission on Aging, 43 Historic points of inter- 60, 62
Art galleries, 58 44 Drinking age, legal, 48 est, 6 Newspapers, 67
Assisted living, 39 Community Fund of Dry cleaners, 60 Historical society, 6, 8, Newsstands, 60
Autism, 43 Darien, 29 Dump, town, 31 48, 58 Noroton Yacht Club, 53
Baby-sitting, 48, 50 Compost, 32 Eating disorders, 43 Histories, town, 8 Norwalk Hospital, 34,
Baked goods, 60 Concerts, summer, 51 Ed Alert, 22 Hockey, ice, 22, 49, 52 39, 42, 46
Baker Park, 50 Congress, U.S., 16 Elder abuse, 46 Hockey, field, 21 Notary public, 13
Banks, 62 Connecticut Academic Emergency Message Home care, 28, 39 Nursing homes, 28, 39
Baseball, 22, 49 Performance Test, 20 Line, 38 Home companion ser- Office of Emergency
Bates-Scofield House, Connecticut Mastery Emergency rooms, 34 vices, 46 Management, 38
6, 8, 58 Test, 20 Emergency, townwide, Homebound seniors, 44 Officials, town, 18
Beaches, 11, 39, 50, 51 Connecticut Turnpike, 6 38 Horses, 64 Oil tanks, 32
Beautification Consumer protection, 62 Emissions, 65 Hospice, 39, 39 Orchestras, 57
Commission, 14, 30, Continuing education, Etiquette classes, 48 Houses of worship, 46 Paramedics, 34
55 25 False alarms, 34 Houses, old, 6, 8 Parents’ groups, 57
Better Business Bureau, Cotillion of Darien, 48 Family & Children’s Housing Authority, 15, Parking, 66
62 Counseling, 28, 30, 41, Agency, 29, 39, 42, 45 Parking, handicap, 66
Bible study, 47 42, 43, 48 46 Housing sales, 8 Parks and Recreation
Bicycling, 52 Counseling, teens, 44, Family and Youth Housing, affordable, 11, Dept., 49, 50, 51, 52
Blood drives, 29 48 Options, 42, 48 14, 28 Parks, 50
Blood pressure, 42 CPR classes, 29, 41 Family Centers, 29, 42 Housing, senior, 28, 45 Passports, 13
Board of Education, 12, Crime statistics, 38 Farmer’s market, 60 Hurricanes, prepara- Pear Tree Point Beach,
18, 19, 67 Dancing, 48, 58 Faxes, 62 tions, 39 50, 51, 64
Board of Selectmen, 11, Darien Arts Center, 25, FEMA, 31 Ice cream shops, 60 Permit, beach, 50
12, 18, 67 56 Fences, 30 Income, household, 8 Permit, building, 30
Boating, 51, 52 Darien Boat Club, 50, Finance Department, 16 Infoline, 23, 29, 42, Permit, zoning, 30
Bond rating, town, 13 52 Fingerprints, 38 43, 46 Person-to-Person, 28
Books, used, 28 Darien Book Aid, 28 Fire departments, 34, 54 Jazz, 57 Pet adoptions, 64
Bookstores, 60 Darien Community Fire marshal, 34 Jewish Family Service, Pharmacies, 42
Budget, school, 12 Association, 44, 54, Firefighters, 34 42, 46, 48 Picnic areas, 50
Budget, town, 12 55 First aid, 29, 41, 50 Jobs, seeking, 26 Piedmont Club, 55
Building Department, Darien Community First selectman, 11 Jobs, student, 27 Pizza, 58
16, 63 Matters, 28 Fish, fresh, 60 Jogging, 52 Planning and Zoning
Building inspectors, 30 Darien EMS, 34, 54 Fishing, 53 Junior League, 55 Department, 16
Burning, leaf, 32 Darien Environmental Flood zone, 31 Justice of the peace, 13 Police, 34
Buses, 56 Group, 56 Flu clinics, 42, 44 Kennels, 64 Political parties, 14
Cabaret performances, Darien Gift Certificate, Food markets, 60 Kids in Crisis, 48 Population, 8
57 60 Football, 21, 49 Kiwanis Club, 55 Postal service, 62
Cable television, 63, 67 Darien Land Trust, 56 Frate Park, 50 Lacrosse, 22, 49 Power outages, 38
Calendar of events, 30 Darien Library, 13, 14, Freedom of Information, League of Women Probate, 15
Camps, summer, 49 26, 56, 58, 67 16 Voters, 17, 56 Propane gas, 32, 63
Car washes, 61 Darien Little League, 49 Friendly Connections Liberation Programs, Public works, 32, 65
February 17, 2011 Reader’s Index darien answerbook • 69

Radio stations, 38, 67 School enrollments, Social worker, 28 Temples, 46 34, 44, 50
Radon, 43 19, 20 Softball, 21, 49, 50, 52 Tennis, 22, 50, 51, 52 Voter enrollments, 14
Recycling, 32 School registration, 21 Special education, 23 Theater company, adult, Water, well, 31, 63
Refuse Disposal Area, Schools, art, 25 Special events, 44, 50, 56 Weed Beach, 50, 51, 52
31 Schools, dance, 25 56, 58 Theater groups, kids, 48 Welcoming services, 62
Registrars of voters, Schools, nursery, 24 Speed limits, 65 Thrift shops, 61 Wellness programs, 39,
14, 18 Schools, public, 19 Spinal cord injuries, 43 Tilley Pond Park, 34, 41
Rehabilitation, physical, Selleck’s Woods, 50 Sports, children’s, 49 50, 52 Wood chips, 32
39, 39, 41 Senate, state, 16 Spring cleanup, 32 TOPS, 48 Woodland Park, 50, 52
Representative Town Senate, U.S., 17 Stamford Hospital, 34, Town Administrative WyldLife, 47
Meeting, 12 Senior citizen activi- 39, 41, 42, 45 Officer, 11 Yellow Dot program, 44
Republicans, 14, 15, 54 ties, 44 Stephen Mather House, Town clerk, 12, 13 YMCA, 48, 49, 50,
Restaurants, 60 Septic systems, 63 6 Town offices, 11 Young Life, 47
Revaluation, 12, 13 Sewer service, 63 Stephen Ministers, 47 Toy stores, 61 Youth Commission, 14,
Riding, recreational, 64 Sexual abuse, 43 Stony Brook Park, 50 Transportation, senior 50, 51
Roads, 65 Sidewalk sales, 58, 62 Substance abuse, 29, 42 citizens, 44 Youth director, 18, 48
Rotary Club, 55 Singing groups, 57 Support groups, 42, 43 Treasurer, town, 13 Youth programs, reli-
Running clubs, 52 Siwanoy Indians, 6 Swimming, 48, 49, 51, Tuxedoes, 61 gious, 47
Safe Rides, 48 Skating, ice, 52 52 Unemployment rate, 10 YWCA, 49, 50, 52, 56,
Sailing, 48, 49 Soccer, 21, 49, 50 Tax rate, 12 Veterans groups, 56 58, 62
SAT scores, 20 Social services depart- Tax relief programs, 12 Visiting nurses, 39, 39, Zoning regulations, 30
School calendar, 20 ment, 18, 28, 41, 42, Taxes, property, 12 41, 42, 44
School cancellations, 22 43, 44, 50 Television, local, 67 Volunteers, 27, 28, 29,

Darien Web Sites

A Better Chance.abcdarien.com
American Red Cross: dsredcross.org, ctredcross.org
Calvary Baptist Church of Darien: calvarybaptist.darien.org
Center for Hope: centerforhope.org
Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut:
childguidancect.org
Children’s Council of Darien: ccd.darien.org
Community Fund of Darien: communityfunddarien.org
Darien Advocates for Education of the Gifted: daeg.org
Darien Antiques Show: darienantiquesshow.org
Darien Arts Center: arts.darien.org
Darien Boat Club: darienboatclub.org
Darien Book Aid: dba.darien.org
Darien Community Association: dca.darien.org
Darien Community Information Network: darien.org
Darien Continuing Education: dariencontinuinged.com
Darien EMS Post 53: post53.org
Darien Environmental Group: darienenvironmentalgroup.org
Darien Fathers’ Forum: fathersforum.darien.org
Darien Fire Department: darienfire.org
Darien High School Girls Swim Team: girlswim.darien.org
Darien Historical Society: historical.darien.org
Darien Junior Sailing Team: sail.darien.org
Darien Land Trust: darienlandtrust.org
Darien Library: darienlibrary.org
Darien Lions Club: darienctlions.org
Darien Little League: dybs.org
Darien Nature Center: dariennaturecenter.org
Darien Players: players.darien.org
Darien Post 6933 Veterans of Foreign Wars:
angelfire.com/ct3/darienvfw
Darien Power Squadron: dps.darien.org
Darien Professionals Networking Group:
darienprofessionals.com
Darien Public Schools: darienps.org
Darien Republican Town Committee: darienrtc.com
Darien Sail & Power Squadron: dps.darien.org
Darien Senior Activities Center: dsac.darien.org
Darien Soccer Association: dariensoccer.org
Darien Technology & Community Foundation:
darientechnologyfoundation.org
Darien Times: darientimes.com
Darien United Methodist Church: umcdarien.org
Darien Winter Club: darienwinterclub.org
Darien YMCA: darien-ymca.org
Darien Youth Baseball & Softball: dybs.org
Darien Youth Hockey Association: dyha.com
Darien Youth Lacrosse Association: dylax.com
Democratic Town Committee: dtc.darien.org
Depot, The: dariendepot.org
Fairfield County Football League: fairfieldcountyfootball.org
Family Centers: familycenters.org
First Church of Christ, Scientist: christiansciencect.org/darien
First Congregational Church of Darien: uccdarien.org
Friendly Connections: familycenters.org
ITP Foundation of Darien: itpfoundation.org
Kiwanis Club of Darien: darienkiwanis.org
League of Women Voters of Darien: lwv.darien.org
Middlesex Club: middlesexclub.org
Middlesex Genealogical Society: mgs.darien.org
New Life Christian Fellowship: nlcf.ws
Noroton Presbyterian Church: norotonchurch.org
Noroton Fire Department: norotonfd.org
Noroton Heights Fire Department: nhfd.us
Noroton Yacht Club: norotonyc.org
Obie Harrington-Howes Foundation: ohhf.org
Pear Tree Point School: ptpschool.org
Person-to-Person: p2p.darien.org
Republican Club of Darien: republicanclub.darien.org
Republican Town Committee: darienrtc.com
Rotary Club of Darien: rotary.darien.org
Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church: saintlukesdarien.org
Saint John R.C. Church: stjohndarien.org
Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church: stpaulsdarien.org
Saint Thomas More Church: stmdarienct.org
Senior Men’s Association: sma.darien.org
Talmadge Hill Community Church: thcchurch.org
Town of Darien: darienct.gov
YMCA Piranha Swim Team: piranhaswimming.org
Young Life of Darien/Rowayton: darien.younglife.org
YWCA of Darien-Norwalk: ywcadariennorwalk.org
70 • darien answerbook
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darien answerbook.11
ABC A Man with a Van . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Abercrombie, Burns, McKiernan & Company
Insurance, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
All Star Paving & Sealing, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Atria Darien . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Ballroom Magic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
BBM Home Improvement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Bob’s Unfinished Furniture/Gun Exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Carolton Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Castelli, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Colombo Domestics, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Darien Board of Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Darien Chamber of Commerce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Darien Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Darien Pediatrics Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Darien Rowayton Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Edward Tunick, Men’s Clothier. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Elaine Falkenberg/William Raveis Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Flair Fitness Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Fredric & Company of Darien. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Fuji of Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
The Gardener’s Center and Florist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Geary Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Goldenberry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Grieb’s Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
H & L Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The Healthy Child. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Infinity Fitness in Darien. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Lawrence Funeral Home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Leary’s Liquor Cabinet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
February 17, 2011
d a r i e n a n s we r b ook
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a d ve r t i s e r s
Life Solutions Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
LinguaKids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Methodist Family Center Preschool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
New Canaan Crew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
New England Building & Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
New Ridge Builders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Northeast Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Ox Ridge Hunt Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Palladino Septic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Palmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Park Animal Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Pease Septic Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Pennington Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Richard Jones Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Schilke Enterprises Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Seasons Too . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Shepherds Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Stewart’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Susan Kane Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Taylor Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Tibbetts Real Estate/Darien. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Uncle’s Deli. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Vanech Residential Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Wild Birds Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
WinePort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Y.Z. Jewelry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24,25
Yankee Doodle Stove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
YWCA Darien/Norwalk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
February 17, 2011 darien answerbook • 71

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