We don’t know what the weather will be like then, but it’s got to be better than today.

Two years ago during “Art About Town,” clay sculptor Peter Rubino created Beethoven — as the “5th Symphony” played in the background.

Three included Allen Raymond.

Allen Raymond, circa 1963.

That’s a no-brainer. The 90-year-old former publisher (and town historian) has not just lived on Compo Cove since 1922. He’s served on more boards, advised more town leaders, brokered more good and smart deals, and contributed more to every facet of life — educational, recreational, spiritual — than anyone since the Bedfords.

And they were an entire family.

But it’s not just the 1st selectman candidates and me who revere Allen Raymond. Here’s an email I got from another admirer:

“I noted the frequent mention of Allen Raymond as a person the selectman candidates would ask for guidance.

“Why?

“Certainly, Allen has been a successful figure in town for many years. He is generous with both his time and his money. He has sat on almost every guiding committee we have, from church to Y to kitchen cabinet.

“He has already been honored by many organizations – including the Y’s renaming of Sunny Lane to Allen Raymond Lane.

Allen Raymond: The man, and his sign.

“One more honor is coming up. On Wednesday, June 5 the Westport Rotary honors him at their annual Golf and Tennis Fundraiser at Longshore.

“But I think the real reason that people want to speak to him is because they want to know how he and others managed to get things done. How to get the purchase of Longshore done – without lawsuits and squabbling.

“How to get organizations like the Westport Historical Society and Earthplace to be sustainable, contributing, active town resources.  How to draw people into a church to celebrate its history, as well as its present contributions and mission.

“I think the Rotary honor is a good reason for potential politicians, as well as friends and neighbors, to come together one more time to ask for Allen’s advice, and celebrate his ability to get things done.

It’s especially tough for someone who’s turning 80 years old. By that time in life, you’ve pretty much gotten everything.

But this 80-year-old was Bill Klemish. He lives in Florida now, but still remembers the 1950 Staples football team. He was captain, and they were undefeated.

A quick note to Dan DeVito — president of the Staples Gridiron Club — was all it took. Dan sent a Wreckers sweatshirt, and a nice note.

Bev Breault (Staples Class of 1952) presents Bill Klemish with his Staples football sweatshirt.

The guests at Bill’s party  – held at his daughter Marilyn’s home near Sarasota — could certainly relate to Staples. Their names read like a Who’s Who of Westport: Marge Santella, Bev Breault, Carole Maddock, Ann and Don Rully, Barbara Allen Yamnicky, Bunny Maier, Jack Lauterbach, Bob Duffy, John Hastings; Bill, John Michael and Mary Kate Klemish, Florence Dohanos, Linda Gilchrist, Jenny Walton, Bill and Mary Ann Stirling, Althea D’Aiuto, Jessie Huberty and Ardela Whortley.

Ray Maddock was there too. He and Bill have a lot more in common that Staples football. They’ve been friends since kindergarten in Westport — 75 short years ago.

There is an amazing 13-year-old friend here in Westport. Phoebe is battling leukemia, and is scheduled for a bone marrow transplant next week. That’s great news. Her only sibling, Hallie, beat the 1-in-4 odds of being a match, and is courageously giving her sister another chance at life. Hallie is 12. Though the girls are very different, they are incredibly close. Both attend Bedford Middle School.

When Phoebe learned she had  bone cancer of the leg 2 years ago — on her mom Ellen’s birthday — the town of Westport rallied around the Spear family to help in any way possible.Through Caringbridge.org Phoebe developed a world-wide fan base. She made connections with other kids with cancer all over the country, as well as on the pediatric oncology floor at Sloan-Kettering.

When Phoebe went for her 2-year check up in April, everyone noted how great she looked and how happy she was. After chemo, 2 surgeries, 2 attempts at physical therapy and all of the side effects, Phoebe was on her way back to normal (as normal as can be when you have a lung screening each month).

But as Phoebe and Ellen pulled off Exit 18, a doctor asked them to return.  On Monday morning they found out Phoebe had secondary cancer — this time in her blood. It is very rare in people under 70.

Phoebe (left) and Hallie Spear.

Phoebe spent her 14th birthday the other day receiving chemo, fighting off nausea and sleepiness. She’ll receive her bone marrow next week. Her hair is once again gone.

Phoebe is extremely intelligent. She knows how to read her monitor, and understands the terminology used for her condition. She doesn’t complain. She is more concerned about why cancer exists, and would rather discuss her experience from an academic perspective than an emotional one.

This trying time has been made more difficult because Phoebe is not producing platelets. She receives them intravenously, for 5 hours a day. These platelets come from donations made at Sloan by friends, family and perfect strangers. Donors must have a decent iron count,and cannot be pregnant. Any blood type works, and anything Phoebe does not use will go to another patient.

A bone marrow transplant requires a lot of platelets. So I ask anyone who is able to consider donating (she will need platelets for a month). I did it a few weeks ago and am going back Thursday afternoon (I’m happy to drive in with anyone interested). They even have free cookies! 

Thank you for reading this. Please forward it to anyone who might step up. The Spear family is so grateful. Phoebe sent me an e-card thanking me for my donation. No child should ever write that note.

Westport Police Chief Dale Call, on closed-to-passenger-cars Railroad Place this morning.

A few minutes ago, passengers arriving from Grand Central and points west spent a 2nd day boarding shuttle buses that would drop them at stations all the way to New Haven.

Those are scenes we figured would be repeated all week — if not far into the future — following Friday’s train derailment and wreck a few miles from here.

But Metro-North has announced that limited train service to New Haven begins at 3 p.m. today — right about now.

And the 1st train from New Haven to Grand Central leaves at 4:23 p.m. today.

Tomorrow (Wednesday), regular service resumes up and down the line.

That’s astonishing. In less than 4 days, Metro-North crews have completely cleaned up the huge mess from a mammoth train crash.

The next time there’s a hurricane, windstorm or other natural disaster, we’re hiring those guys.

Not as tattered as the one Francis Scott Key saw over Fort McHenry — but close.

These days, a big, new and handsome flag stands proudly downtown.

Just in time for Memorial Day.

The imported plant is incredibly invasive. Its stems are dense. Its leaves grow 35 feet or more. It spreads underground, overpowering sidewalks, fences and stone walls.

Caryn Rickel of the Institute of Invasive Bamboo Research (!) told the Connecticut Post, yellow grove bamboo is “the worst alien invader that the USA has ever encountered.”

Bamboo grows on a West Ambler Road property line — and behind the house too.

Westporter Priscilla Weadon calls it “the fastest-growing grass on the planet.”

She should know. An Ambler Road neighbor planted bamboo a few years back. Now it’s everywhere — defying even “really powerful chemicals.”

Priscilla’s lawn is covered in new bamboo. She says it grew over 4 feet in a matter of days.

Priscilla says bamboo runs the length of a pond on North Turkey Hill. It’s on Turkey Hill South and Green’s Farms Road. Behind the shopping center next to Mitchells.

More bamboo — on South Turkey Hill, near the intersection with Green’s Farms Road.

The Post story notes that Westport is “home to several astonishing mini-forests of yellow groove bamboo. If your only experiences with the plant are the torches at your neighbor’s tiki party, you’re in for a jaw-dropping experience.”

In many states, Priscilla says, “you cannot sell your home if there is bamboo growing in or bordering” your property. She strongly backs a bill working its way through the Connecticut legislature, providing protection and monetary damages to homeowners for the removal of bamboo. (It must be dug up, sifted through, and the rhizomes — fast-growing underground stems — incinerated.)

Right now, bamboo is not on the list of the state’s invasive species. The Post says  that’s because it is not attacking natural habitats — only siding, roofs and the like — and its effect on native plants and animals is negligible.

This bamboo — behind Party Harty and Westport Hardware — grows through asphalt.

The problem, the Post says, is with people who plant bamboo. Some apparently grow it just to get revenge on a neighbor. (The more neighborly reason is to create a privacy screen.)

There’s no word on how Westport’s bamboo infestation began.

Or — to Priscilla Weadon’s dismay — how and when it will end.

Now, there’s a very real chance it might turn into scrap wood.

Jean Paul Vellotti — a Westporter trying to save the Laurel — just sent this email: 

I’ll get right to the point: We have 48 hours to save the Laurel or she will be crushed.

I’ve lost my docking spot. There are few docks available. One is at Captain’s Cove in Bridgeport. The summer dock fee there might be about $5,000. That’s money I don’t have.

The Laurel.

I had just found a great space for the Laurel Oyster Bar in Sono, complete with a dock and parking. We had contacted the owners this morning before the bad news, and they are getting back to us.

Maybe someone who wants to invest in the business can come forward. It’s pretty hard to have an oyster bar on an oyster boat without the oyster boat.

I really hate to see her crushed, which is a real possibility. Aside from getting a huge bill that will take me years to pay, we would lose the oldest oyster boat in America. We have to try to keep her floating. Even if we can save her for the summer and donate her to Mystic, our job will be done.

If you have any ideas — or can help — email vellotti@aol.com.

Tracy Sugarman

Tracy will be remembered as an artist, author, civil rights activist, documentary filmmaker, and brother, father and grandfather. Among the speakers: Charles McLaurin, the Mississippi civil rights leader who was a close friend.

Two days earlier — on Friday, May 24 (5-7 p.m.), the Westport Historical Society opens a summer-long exhibit. It explores Tracy Sugarman’s life and work, as a “citizen-artist.”

It’s appropriate that both events take place on Memorial Day weekend. Two years ago, Tracy — as proud of his military service as he was of his social activism — served as grand marshal of our parade.

For the next month they’ll work at law firms, advertising agencies, research labs, non-profits, stores and more, from here to New York.

It’s a great taste of the real world, just before graduation and whatever lies ahead beyond high school.

But talk about bad timing!

Nothing can prepare a teenager for the real world like commuting — on one of the most chaotic days in Fairfield County transportation history.

I-95 on a typical day — when the trains were running normally. (Photo by Keelin Daly/CT Post)

The Republicans have already chosen Jim Marpe. The Democrats meet tomorrow. The 3 names most frequently mentioned are Ken Wirfel, Jonathan Steinberg and Helen Garten.

To get a sense of who these would-be 1st selectman candidates are, I asked a few simple questions. Here are their responses. The Democratic candidates are listed in reverse alphabetical order because — well, I’m a Woog. The Republican candidate is listed last, because he is unopposed.

Ken Wirfel, former member, Board of Finance

Main reason I’m considering running: I’m passionate about Westport. Westport is just recovering from the fiscal crisis and needs someone who can secure its future. We need a first selectman who can share with us a vision how we can assure the continued excellence of our school, retain our talented workforce and allow our seniors to remain in place if they so choose.

Main reason I considered NOT running: I consider the other announced Democratic candidates my colleagues and friends. I want to run a campaign that is respectful of their abilities and desires to serve the town, while setting myself apart.

Major problems facing Westport: Labor contracts and union plans. Many will come up in the next 4 years. We’ve got to end most defined benefit plans and “bend the curve” on others by lengthening service years and extending retirement age before eligibility for benefits.

Biggest thing Westporters talk about that is NOT a problem:  Deer population.

Ken Wirfel on the roof of Fenway Park, during a Yankees game.

First thing I’d do after being sworn in: Kiss my wife and children. Meet with all department heads and engage in a thorough review of goals and responsibilities. Meet with chairs of all RTM committees, town boards and commissions to assess whether they are receiving timely and adequate information from town departments.

5 Westporters I admire:  Alan Nevas, retired federal judge; fount of common sense and decency. Michael Szeto, retired from IBM; currently teaching at MIT’s Sloan School; passionate about education and American competitiveness in the global economy. Michael Kassen, president of AIPAC; a tremendously decent, thoughtful, moderate guy playing a major role at a time of Middle East threats. Keith Stein, involved in numerous community activities; quiet, unassuming guy; great dad, son, husband, brother, athlete and cook. Barbara Butler, director of human services; if Westport’s government has a soul, it runs through her department; she constantly affirms my belief that government can be a force for good in our community.

My favorite places in Westport: My wife’s backyard garden, a beautiful respite from the rest of the world. Compo at dawn, for years part of my early morning bike route before a commute into New York.

My favorite places NOT in Westport:  Nantucket; British Columbia; open water anywhere.

If I was not running for 1st selectman, I’d be…:  Planning road trips to college hockey games in Boston next year.

If I was tweeting about Westport, I’d say…:  A Life Well Lived. You Deserve Westport. @KenWirfel

Jonathan Steinberg, State Representative

Main reason I’m running: I love this town and I’m excited by the prospect of making it an even better place to live and work. I’ve worked hard on Westport’s behalf on the RTM and in the State Legislature, and I know I have the experience and perspective to be an effective leader.

Main reason I considered NOT running: Campaigns require an all-out commitment. My family has always been very supportive, but running for office takes a toll on family life. I strive to maintain a balance, because family matters so much to me.

Jonathan Steinberg

Major problems facing Westport: The good news is we are not facing major problems. But we’ve all noticed a change in the tone of public dialogue lately. There’s a tendency to form factions and fight, rather than work together. There’s so much good about Westport, and so many good people who want to move the town forward, but there’s an increasing lack of civility and willingness to see the other side’s point of view.

Biggest thing Westporters talk about that is NOT a problem: There’s a big myth about fiscal problems in Westport. Westporters should not be misled: The town is in fine shape financially — better off than most municipalities, with a Triple-A bond rating. We simply need to plan well for future employee pension and healthcare obligations, and be resolute in contract negotiations.

First thing I’d do after being sworn in: Get around town as often as possible as part of a continual effort to engage Westporters on what’s on their minds. Perhaps I’ll start with a big “brown bag lunch.”

5 Westporters I admire: Barbara Butler: no one has done as much for Westporters in need, always with grace, compassion and good humor. Dick Harris, an environmental hero. Ann Sheffer, whose commitment to the arts has kept Westport in the forefront of cultural excellence. Allen Raymond, who has been in the middle of many of the biggest Westport moments, from the Longshore acquisition to the new library and Y. My parents: my father took great care of the health of generations of Westporters — and made house calls, while my mother’s “best books” lecture at the library is always SRO.

My favorite places in Westport: A serene spot in Salmon Park with a beautiful view of the Saugatuck. The library, hub of activity and information where there is always something stimulating happening. Any of the ball fields on a Saturday morning. And of course an intimate, state-of-the-art movie theater on Main Street (okay, it doesn’t exist — yet!)

My favorite places NOT in Westport: Madison Square Garden for a playoff game; Portofino, Italy on the quay at sunset; wherever my daughters are living at the time.

If I was not running for 1st selectman, I’d be…: doing my best for Westport as its state representative.

If I was tweeting about Westport, I’d say…: Westport is a great place: amazing amenities, a strong sense of community, a tradition of giving and helping. I’m proud to call it home.

Helen Garten, Board of Finance vice chair

Main reason I’m considering running: I love Westport, and I think I have the skills, experience and energy to make a difference.

Main reason I considered NOT running: I am not a politician!

Major problem facing Westport: As is true for many communities, the long-term cost of Westport’s employee retirement benefits — pension and retiree medical — could eventually crowd out other funding needs. The solution is to craft a sustainable benefits package that protects our taxpayers and treats our valued employees fairly. Westport is already ahead of many towns in pension reform, but we still have a long way to go. Getting there will require skill, creativity and consensus building.

Helen Garten, awarding medals at a Special Olympics event.

What’s not a problem: Westport has not been, and is not, in financial trouble. To the contrary, we came through the recession with services funded, taxes reasonable and reserves strong. That’s why we can plan for the future now.

First thing I’d do after being sworn in: Hold the first of the revived First Selectwoman’s Brown Bag lunches. There is no better way to share ideas and learn what Westporters are thinking.

5 Westporters I admire: Allen Raymond, who has done more for Westport than I can mention. Katy Goldschmidt, who inspired me to get into and stay in Westport politics. PTA parents, whose tireless efforts keep our schools great. My husband Michael, who has no idea what he’s in for if I do run for first selectman but will never complain. Dan Woog, who runs the most lively and interesting blog I know of.

Favorite places in Westport: Compo Beach, particularly in the off season. The Westport Public Library, our downtown anchor. The  Saugatuck River behind my house, which is beautiful in every season.

Favorite places not in Westport: Fort Sewall in Marblehead, Massachusetts where I grew up; Cuttyhunk Island; the Princeton University campus.

If I was not running for first selectman, I’d be…: sailing to Bermuda (seriously!).

If I was tweeting about Westport, I’d say..: although we seem to disagree on almost every issue, we all care passionately about our community.

Jim Marpe, former chair, Board of Education

Main reason I’m running for 1st selectman: I love Westport. I’m excited at the prospect of using my unique background in both the private and public sectors to make our town even greater. I saw the impact I could make as a public servant on the Board of Education, keeping Westport schools world-class while improving efficiency in a non-partisan matter. My consensus-driven approach will help enhance our services, protect our “crown jewels” and make it easier for our seniors to stay in Westport.

Main reason I considered not running: The time I spend with my wife and daughter, and the time I dedicate to various community service activities, are very important to me. The 1st selectman’s job is more than full time, so I face giving up significant portions of family and community service. Fortunately, my family is excited about the positive differences they believe I can make.

Jim Marpe at the Rotary Club, of which he is a long-time member.

Major problems facing Westport: Westporters are concerned that many “crown jewel” services and amenities are showing wear and need attention. Seniors want to “age in place” but worry about property tax increases and housing options. Employee pension and benefit costs must be restructured to still make our community an attractive place to work, but at a cost taxpayers can afford. We must seek cost efficiencies through technology, restructuring operations and greater cooperation between the town and schools. We must revitalize our ability to attract and retain businesses that are appropriate to our town’s character.

Biggest thing Westporters talk about that is NOT a major problem: The amazing number of community service organizations and their dedicated, tireless and creative staff and volunteers who do an extraordinary job of filling the gaps that government cannot or should not fill. Westporters are an engaged, well-intentioned, civic-minded group who care about their neighbors and the direction of the town.

First thing I would do after being sworn in: Meet with every town department head to identify their key challenges and opportunities, and agree on the top objectives for the coming year and their impact on the budget process. This will lay the groundwork for quickly developing a 4-year strategic operating plan. Simultaneously we will aggressively develop strategies for upcoming labor and pension contract negotiations.

5 Westporters I admire and why: Allen Raymond, who has dedicated most of his 90 years to Westport through public office and leadership of many community organizations. Joanne Woodward, through whose leadership we still have our iconic Westport Country Playhouse housed in a modern yet familiar facility, with an expanded mission. Al DiGuido, whose Al’s Angels and its dozens of volunteers demonstrate the impact an individual can have on a community and the lives of children. Paul Green, who through his “Nevah Surrendah” organization and his commitment to exercise has educated and motivated Parkinson’s disease sufferers to fight back, and inspires us all. Mary Ellen Marpe, my wife, who besides putting up with my late evening meetings and erratic schedule has made her own impact on Westport through 11 years of operating the Academy of Dance, and now having a leadership role in ITNCastalCT.

My favorite places in Westport: Ned Dimes Marina at sunset on a summer evening. Getting a haircut at Compo Barber Shop. Any restaurant, diner, deli or bar that is locally owned (outdoor dining appreciated). Westport Country Playhouse; the “Staff Recommends” table at the library. Longshore golf course; coffee and conversation at Mitchells. Walking my dog in Winslow Park, at Compo and Burying HIll in winter. Shopping at the Farmers Market and Double L Farm Stand. Wakeman Town Farm.

My favorite places NOT in Westport: Anywhere with vineyards, wineries and tasting rooms; a sailboat or motorboat on Long Island Sound; Manhattan; Boston; Chicago; Tuscany.

If I was not running for 1st selectman, I’d be…: continuing to work with the Family Y, Rotary, Green’s Farms Church, Y’s Men, Stamford Symphony and the Riedel & Cody Foundation. I would spend more time with my wife and daughter, and walk my dog more often. I might even lower my golf handicap.

If I was tweeting about Westport, I’d say…: Love Westport. A creative, sophisticated, caring community in a unique setting; world-class schools; activities to match every interest.

Beginning tomorrow (Monday, May 20), 2013 Metro-North will run limited service from the Westport train station to points west. There is NO train service from Green’s Farms. Commuters should check http://new.mta.info/mnr/ frequently for updates.

Connecticut DOT will operate shuttle buses from Bridgeport, with stops at Fairfield Metro and Fairfield train stations, and Westport as the terminus. This will have a significant impact on the Saugatuck station, as we expect most riders on these shuttles will board trains at Saugatuck. At this time Metro-North estimates they will run at about 75% capacity from Westport.

Heavy delays and high traffic volume are expected on local roads – especially if commuters from towns east of Westport drive here to board trains. If at all possible, car pool to the train station. It is expected that parking will fill fast and early. Additional police personnel will be on duty.

There will be limited shuttle bus service from Green’s Farms station to Saugatuck station for commuters who find themselves there in the morning and returning in the evening during peak hours only. Buses with limited seating will run a continuous loop to and from Saugatuck. This is separate from the CT DOT shuttle system. Please check http://www.norwalktransit.com/ for more information.

Finally, please note these important traffic pattern changes:

• All Saugatuck station passenger vehicle drop-offs in the AM and pickups in the PM will be directed to Ferry Lane on the eastbound side of the station. Passengers can then use the tunnels to reach the NY-bound platforms.

• Railroad Place will be used by incoming shuttle buses and local business traffic. If you are parking (while spaces remain), you may be stuck behind loading/unloading buses. Please be patient.

Friday’s scary train wreck just a few miles east will play havoc with this week’s commute. The Westport and Green’s Farms train stations are closed. There will be limited service from South Norwalk to Grand Central, and full service from Stamford.

But parking lots at those stations — and others on the New Haven line — will be packed. And I-95 and the Merritt will be even more crowded than usual.

So “06880″ is trying to help.

If you plan to drive to a train station, New York or somewhere along the way, and have room for riders — or if you seek a ride somewhere — click “Comments” below. Leave your contact info (phone, email, Twitter…). When a match is made and you want your comment removed, email me (dwoog@optonline.net) and I’ll take it down.

Similarly, if you’ve got any brilliant ideas on how best to handle the upcoming commuter chaos, click “Comments” to share with all.

Now a pair of local sisters — working with 2 partners in Los Angeles — have brought the idea of “tag sales” into the 21st century.

They’ve created an iPhone and Android app that allows users to take photos of items they’re selling, “tag” them, and instantly offer them to local buyers.

Of course, the app is called TagSale.

The primary market is college students. They often sell bikes, refrigerators, couches and textbooks. And they always use their cellphones.

The traditional way they got rid of most stuff was posting flyers — or dumping it outside their dorm or house. Then came Craigslist, but the interface is archaic and antiquated; sellers have no idea who they’re dealing with, and any ad is soon swamped by dozens of others.

Textbooks, meanwhile, have long been sold back to college bookstores. But they paid a pittance, then turned around and jacked up the re-sale price.

TagSale addresses those problems, says partner Ronnie Klein — a mother of 2 (with another due soon) who has lived here for 5 years. Her own mother, Cherie Flom Quain, grew up here too, and is a Staples grad.

Users take cellphone photos of whatever they’re selling — an entire room, if they want. They tag each item, with individual descriptions.

Unlike Craigslist, TagSale offers ratings and reviews — eBay-style — for every seller. Like Instagram, users can “like” or comment on items for sale.

Tagging items in the app is very simple.

TagSale’s creators — who include Ronnie’s sister Michelle, and the partners out west — are still figuring out the best markets. They lean toward college students, and will soon roll out a feature where only users who log in with a .edu email address can see what’s for sale on their campus.

Users without a .edu email can still find other offerings in their neighborhood.

The natural question is: “Show me the money.” Klein says local merchants will be able to offer (buy) information about their own promotions and sales — for example, “half off today at our dry cleaners”. Banner ads may be sold too.

Eventually, regional and national chains like JC Penney will be able to photograph, say, their clearance racks, and tag items they’re selling.

Since its launch last month, over 1500 users have downloaded TagSale. Feedback has been great — and sales are climbing.

Meanwhile, the app’s creators are seeking students to help promote it on their own campuses (email team@tagsaleapp.com for more information).

And, of course, it’s available to download. Even if you’re not a college student, TagSale is a great way to tag and sell items.You won’t need a real tag sale ever again.

A steady stream of customers – from Brian Williams, Jack Welch and Jim Calhoun to your basic, everyday Joe Hedge Fund Manager and CEO — drops in. They grab a bagel, schmooze, and buy a suit or three.

Today was extra special. Bill Mitchell — son of founders Ed and Norma, father and uncle of the 3rd generation to run the store — turns 70 tomorrow.

The store was packed with well-wishers (and stocked with champagne and cake).

In the midst of all the A-Listers and heavy hitters, it was easy to overlook one older man.

But Walt Melillo was there too. He’s 90 now, but in 1958 he was the 1st non-family member hired by Ed and Norma.

Bill Mitchell (left) and Walt Melillo.

Walt worked Friday nights and all day Saturdays . His real job was as an elementary school teacher (Saugatuck, then Burr Farms). In fact, both Bill and I were Walt’s students.

Today was a great day for Bill Mitchell. He was especially happy to share it with one of Westport’s most important — but seldom recognized — big, big names: Walt Melillo.

Christine Pakkala has taken workshops, and been mentored, at the Sylvan Road center since 2008. Beyond important writing skills, she’s gained confidence. And learned to put herself waaay out there.

She did it so well that her essay — “The Vacation Nightmare That Changed My Life” — won 1st place in the prestigious Ladies’ Home  Journal writing contest. Chosen from thousands of submission, it earned her $3,000 — plus publication in the June issue.

Christine Pakkala (Photo by Kristin Hoebermann)

Christine wrote grippingly about her fear of flying. She finally overcame it in order to spend Christmas in Costa Rica with her husband, attorney and author Cameron Stracher, and their kids (Simon, then 13, and Lulu, 10).

The vacation turned grim when Cam collapsed after a run. The only CAT-scan machine in the country was in San Jose — and the only way to get there was on a tiny plane.

Back in Westport — after a long commercial flight — the couple learned that a major artery was 90 percent blocked. He had survived only because his runner’s heart was so strong.

After a stent and medication, he’s back running. Christine has flown half a dozen times since then. And, of course, she writes.

A former Fulbright Scholar who received her Master of Fine Arts degree from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, she says, “I’ve had Pulitzer Prize-winning writing teachers. But the best advice came from Jessica Bram and Suzanne Hoover” — 2 of her Westport Writers’ Workshop teachers. “They taught me to first listen to myself, then listen to others.”

Now others are listening to Christine. Last month she taught students how to break into children’s books. She should know: She’s got a multi-book publishing deal.

Christine got interested in writing for kids when Simon was in kindergarten. Her tales incorporated his classmates as characters. She read them aloud, and teachers encouraged her to do more.

She listened. She wrote. She branched out from kindergarten to middle grade fiction, and now to a harrowing but healing account of her terrible trip to Costa Rica.

Which — thanks to confidence gained through the Westport Writers’ Workshop — is a prize-winning essay, shared with Ladies’ Home Journal readers everywhere.

(To read Christine’s essay, click here.)

He died last night in California, where he was a student at Claremont McKenna College. His older brother Akbar — a Staples 2009 graduate — also attends Claremont McKenna. Their parents were in California, for Akbar’s graduation tomorrow.

Friends filled Facebook with tributes to Ali, a product of Westport schools since kindergarten. Two themes predominated: his genuine friendliness to everyone, and his tremendous spirit for the Staples volleyball team.

Funeral services have not yet been announced.

Ali Mirza

So the front window of Jonathan Adler‘s Main Street store offers a helpful link to its website.

But the 24-hour site sells no 420.

Pottery, not pot.

What a buzzkill.

Now they’re a way to get teenagers through the door.

Several good story lines surround tomorrow’s Westport Library Comic-Con (Saturday, May 18, 1-4 p.m.).

One is that the event — it stands for “comic book conventions,” if your knowledge of comics ends with Archie and Jughead — is being held here at all.

Comic-cons are very popular — they include contests, games, workshops and more, and they are not just for teenagers — but they usually take place in convention centers and hotels.

A 2nd story line is what’s on tap: a talk by Paul Kupperberg (longtime comic author and former editor at DC Comics); a cartoon workshop with Christopher Hart (author of over 50 how-to-draw books); a trivia contest (run by former “Jeopardy” contestant Staples semifinalist Emily Greenberg); a showcase of artwork by local high school talent; a costume contest; comic books for sale; a card game and video game…you get the idea.

Oh, yeah: There’s food too.

But the best story line — for me, anyway — is that tomorrow’s Comic-Con has been planned entirely by teenagers.

Teen planning members joined the library’s Jaina Lewis (sitting) at a Connecticut Library  Association presentation last month.(From left): Matt Walton, Zoe Ginsberg and Shira Gitlin. All 3 are Staples students.

For over a year, teen services librarian Jaina Lewis has worked with a teen committee. They organized the Hunger Games and Haunted Library programs; they’re running the library’s Memorial Day float, and they are very excited about Comic-Con.

Jaina loves the group’s excitement. “They don’t think of the Westport Library as a place where they can’t do things,” she says. “They think of it as a place where they can make their ideas happen.”

For Zoe Ginsberg, the best part is “focusing on how great everyone in Westport is.”

She helped gather presenters from around the area. “These aren’t just stars coming for a paycheck,” she says. “They’re real people, with real talent. At larger Cons you can only see the talent from a distance. Here, everything will be up close and personal.”

Matt Walton appreciates being given rein by Jaina to pursue whatever he’s interested in.

In fact, he says, “I’ve honestly never read a comic book. But there’s so much variety in what’s going on — TV, film, virtually every kind of entertainment and media available — that I’d have a great time even if I wasn’t involved.”

(Comic-Con admission is $8, payable in advance or at the door. To register or for more information, click here or call 203-291-4809.)

As “06880″ reported, the firefighters are paying forward — to communities struck by Hurricane Sandy, and near Newtown — the kindness they were shown after in New Jersey after the storm. Seven years earlier, following Hurricane Katrina, the same firefighters had built playgrounds along the Gulf Coast.

Westport was chosen by relatives of Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting victim Dylan Hockley, because of a family connection here.

Westport firefighters and Public Works, Gault Energy, Kowalsky Brothers and AJ Penna Construction are all donating time, labor and materials to prepare the site for the new playground. Sunrise Rotary is contributing funds.

The groundbreaking on June 7 will be a community event. Jake Hockley — Dylan’s brother — will be the “foreman,” and cut a ceremonial ribbon. 26 butterflies — one for every student and educator killed in Newtown — will be released into the air.

In addition to being beautiful, the butterflies symbolize the Butterfly Effect: Something as small as a butterfly flapping its wings can cause change halfway around the world. Dylan’s parents, Nicole and Ian, call Dylan their butterfly. He — and the 25 others who died — can be a catalyst for change, they say.

But the effort does not end there.

The Long Lots PTA has created “Butterfly Effect” t-shirts (left and below) and car magnets (above). Part of the money raised will go to Sandy Ground: Where Angels Play. That’s the umbrella organization coordinating the construction of 26 playgrounds in the tri-state area, of which Long Lots is one.

The rest will go to Dylan’s Wings of Change, a memorial fund created in his memory to provide support for children — like him — with autism, and other special needs.

They’re also selling Sandy Ground bracelets ($5, at Elvira’s, Christie’s Country Store and Wishlist).

Long Lots — and Westport — received a wonderful gift. The New Jersey firefighters and Hockley family say they’re just paying it forward.

Now we’ve got a chance to do the same.

(T-shirts for $10, and “Butterfly Effect” magnets for $5, are for sale at Christie’s Country Store on Saturday, May 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m, and at a table near the Westport Y at the Memorial Day parade. Requests can also be sent to goodygirls@mac.com. If you’d just like to donate to the cause, send a check payable to “Long Lots PTA” to Lauren Goodman, Long Lots Elementary School, 13 Hyde Lane, Westport, CT 06880).

But my great, longtime friend Neil Brickley is. And even though he no longer lives here, he keeps up with the 06880 (and “06880″).

Last week’s episode caught his eye. The plot involved a murder that took place 20 years earlier. The victim was stabbed to death on a street, and the case had gone cold.

“Elementary’”s writers could have chosen anywhere for their fictional murder. It might have been New York, or a made-up place like Mayberry or Mayfield.

But the murder took place in Westport.

We’ve come quite a way from the days when Lucy Ricardo accidentally destroyed our Minuteman statue.

(If your browser does not link directly to YouTube, click here.)

In anticipation of the centennial celebration, the Friends of Sherwood Island will install educational panels on the history of the Sherwood family. Daniel Sherwood and his wife Catherine Burr settled the area in 1761. They farmed onions and potatoes, and harvested oysters.

An aerial view of Sherwood Island State Park.

But before the signs can be installed for a historical walking tour, an archaeological survey must verify the locations of houses and barns.

Next Wednesday (May 22, 10 a.m.), Connecticut state archaeologist Nick Bellantoni will make a presentation and inspection visit. The public is invited to attend his free lecture and walk-about tour. Entrance to the park is also free.

Elwood Betts will be there. The 87-year-old Westporter remembers where the Sherwood house was; he visited the farm complex as a 6-year-old. (Just as notably, he’s a Sherwood descendant.)

In preparation for Wednesday’s event, Elwood Betts (left) shows archaeologist Ernie Wiegand where the 1787 Sherwood house stood.

Archaeology professor Ernie Wiegand will exhibit Native American artifacts from Sherwood Island and nearby Green’s Farms. He’ll also help identify arrowheads, stone axe heads or other artifacts residents have picked up over the years.

Sherwood Island is an enormously popular state park — and a spot many Westporters have never set foot in. You may not be able to make it to next Wednesday’s event — but don’t wait another 100 years to go.

To raise awareness of the dangers of drunk driving, the Teen Awareness Group (TAG) plastered the halls and lockers with informational signs and graphic posters.

A coffin near the cafeteria hammered home the point that drunk driving kills.

A video — shown to the entire school — was the day’s centerpiece. The TAG-  produced documentary featured members of the Staples and Westport communities, sharing personal stories of the impact drunk driving had on their lives.

The effect was powerful. And — in every aspect of the word — sobering.

Click below to watch the video. Click here if your browser does not link directly to YouTube.

“Salinger” — 9 years in the making — is a documentary about a very famous American writer.

JD Salinger

But, the Times says, J.D. Salinger’s reclusiveness makes marketing the film difficult. Not only was the author — who died in 2010 — not involved in the film; neither was his son, nor the few members of a small circle of friends.

“Mr. Weinstein indicated that the secrets will be part of the fun as he and his company forge a strategy for selling ‘Salinger’ to the masses,” the Times reports.

So the “06880″ question of the day is this: Does the film that Westporter Harvey Weinstein is releasing contain any information about Salinger’s 2 or 3 years in Westport?

He came here in 1949 or ’50 — details are sketchy. But according to the Times — and reported on “06880” the day he died — Salinger “holed up in a house on South Compo Road” in 1950 to write Catcher in the Rye.

Does Westport make it into “Salinger”? Because Salinger certainly made it to Westport.

The wooden house next to Terrain — in its Curran Cadillac days, before it was spruced up.

But not as busy as the Historic District Commission’s night will be.

Meeting at 7 this evening (Town Hall, Room 201), they’ll comment on an application from Terrain to demolish the 19^th century wooden building at the corner of Crescent Road (opposite the firehouse), and replace it with 9 parking spots.

But that’s just a warm-up okay. The agenda also includes:

• To take such action as the meeting may determine to reconsider waiving the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 44 Spicer Road. 
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 60 West Parish Road.
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 12 Harding Lane. 
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 6 Rebel Road.
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 46 Partrick Road.
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application for the house and garage at 8 Compo Hill Avenue c. 1920 identified on the Historic Resources Inventory.
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 35 Church Lane, identified on the Historic Resources Inventory as the Kemper-Gunn House c. 1890.
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 121 Imperial Avenue.
•  To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 28 Turkey Hill Road South.
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 6 Harbor Road. 
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 37 Evergreen Parkway, identified on the Historic Resources Inventory c. 1915.
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 4 Jackie Lane. 
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at One Lantern Hill Road. 
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 7 Grist Mill Lane. 
• To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 15 Appletree Trail. 
•  To take such action … to waive the balance of the delay period for a demolition permit application at 28 Maple Avenue. 

That’s a lot of work. Afterward, they might want to go out for a beer to relax.

I suggest the Spotted Horse. It’s a nice old building, with lots of ambiance.