FLOOD FOLLOW-UP: LONGTIME WESTPORTER, CIVIC VOLUNTEER NEEDS HELP
Debra Kandrak has done a lot for Westport.
In 2019, she started a campaign to “paint the town yellow.” Every fall, she encourages residents, businesses and non-profits to plant daffodils.
Every spring, we reap the spectacularly beautiful result. (Click here for our most recent “06880” photos.)
Now, Debra needs our help.
The September 13 rain bomb damaged her home, and destroyed 3-room rental unit in her lower level. It supplements her income. Health issues limit her ability to work.
It was the first water intrusion she’d ever had, in 28 years here.
Debra says, “I am 70 years old and trying to manage this on my own. It has become a nightmare, and an expense I was not prepared for.” Insurance (of course) does not cover her losses.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help. Click here to donate, and more information.
September 13 flooding, at Debra Kandrak’s home.
last call: tickets for “historic homes of 06880” tour
Tickets are almost all gone for the 4th annual “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour.
This Sunday’s (November 1) event — produced in collaboration with the great KMS Team at Compass crew — is our biggest yet.
There are 5 homes — one more than usual — and we’ve added an extra hour (12 to 4 p.m.).
This year’s homes are spectacular. Each is historic, and retains its original look and feel; all have been adapted thoughtfully and beautifully, for today’s lifestyle.
They include:
- The 100-year-old stone residence, with renovated gardens, ponds and fountains, at 50 Sylvan Road North (former home of actor Frank Gorshin, The Riddler on “Batman”)
- “9 Hearths” (actually 11), owned by former 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker nearby, at 56 Sylvan Road North
- 50 Turkey Hill North, the much-admired former inn and tavern across from St. Luke Church, owned for over a century by the Burr and Banks families
- 311 Greens Farms Road, one of the oldest homes in Westport; featuring original flooring and beams, with a complementary addition
- 217 Compo Road South, an 1855 Victorian farmhouse and carriage house that epitomize thoughtful renovation, with history at the forefront.
To order tickets, click here. For more information on each home, click here.
50 Turkey Hill Road North
SAVE THE DATE: HOLIDAY STROLL SET FOR DECEMBER 5
Speaking of “06880” community events: Our 6th annual Holiday Stroll is set for Saturday, December 5.
Co-sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association, it’s become one of our town’s most beloved traditions.
From 4 to 7 p.m., Main Street, Elm and Church Streets are filled with holiday fun.
Staples Orphenians and a string ensemble play. There’s a DJ too, plus Santa Claus, face painting, a photo booth and much more.
Merchants and restaurants offer special promotions (including freebies). Vendors and non-profits fill the streets. PopUp Bagels will be there too, celebrating their opening in Westport.
It’s the second night of Hanukkah — so there will be a menorah lighting, with our friends from Chabad of Westport.
There’s something for everyone. See you at the Holiday Stroll, December 5!
PS: Local businesses: Click here to participate.
Tons of action, at last year’s Holiday Stroll. (Photo/John Walker)
special westport art on sale for holidays
Speaking of the holidays: Here is perhaps the coolest, most “Westport” gift of the year.
Westport River Gallery has commissioned a special digital work: “Westport USA.”
Several artists have collaborated on a piece that blends iconic locations of yesteryear, with some of our town’s most recognizable names: Paul Newman & Joanne Woodward, Anne Hathaway, Patty Hearst, Martha Stewart, Rodney Dangerfield, Neil Sedaka, Michael Bolton, Norman Rockwell, Liz Taylor (with her home), Don Imus, Christopher Lloyd, Phil Donahue & Marlo Thomas.
The price is just $49, unframed. Email westportrivergallery@gmail.com, or call 203-226-6934 to order.
“Westport USA”
wwpt: #1 in the NATION!
Congratulations to WWPT!
The Staples radio station — 90.3 FM, but you should already have it on your pre-sets — was named the Best High School Station in the country this past weekend.
For the second straight year.
The honor came at the John Drury High School Radio Awards in Chicago.
In addition, Thomas Scott was named Broadcaster of the Year.
Dylan Robbin — who, we are proud to say, is a member of “06880”‘s board of directors — was a finalist for Broadcaster of the Year. He also took 2nd place with Thomas and Charlie Curran for Best Underwriting or Commercial (for Gaetano’s Deli), and 5th for Best Sportscast.
Declan Jandora was a finalist for Broadcaster of the Year. In addition, he placed third for Best DJ.
Kudos to advisor Geno Heiter, and the entire staff at The Best High School Radio Station in the US.
WWPT-FM advisor Geno Heiter (left) with Declan Jandora, Thomas Scott and Dylan Robbin — and their awards.
CYBERSECURITY: 3 WAYS TO STAY SAFE
“06880” has posted several pieces recently about cybersecurity. (Reminder: We were hacked — big time — a few weeks ago.)
Each time, we’ve sung the praises of tech god Sam Disraelly.
Now, have a chance to learn how to prevent damage by bad guys — and to meet Sam, one of the real good guys.
The event is tomorrow (Tuesday, October 27, 6 p.m., VFW Post 399). It’s hosted by (of all groups) the Wilton Drum Hill chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (who only had to worry about Benedict Arnold).
But that’s not all.
Soon, Sam will team up with the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, for a pair of Verso University “Lunch and Learn” sessions at the Westport Library.
Both are at noon, on November 13 and December 11. The first topic is “AI for Small Businesses“; the second builds on that one, for “Next Steps” (though previous attendance is not required).
No technical background required. The Library says: “Bring your lunch, your questions, and a real task you’d like help with.”
Sam Disraelly
LUX BOND & GREEN CELEBRATES 30 YEARS
Lux Bond & Green celebrated 30 years in Westport Saturday.
The Brooks Corner (Main and Elm Streets) location was the second, for the 128-year-old, 5th generation, family owned and operated business.
To celebrate 3 decades here, all month long they’ll donate proceeds from all watch batteries, sizing and jewelry cleaning to Swim Across The Sound. For customers who mention Swim Across the Sound, a percentage of that sale will also benefit the non-profit.
LBG partner Roberto Coin also turns 30 this year. The store celebrates with 2 trunk shows. A percentage sales will benefit Connecticut Food Share.
On November 1, Lux Bond & Green will donate another month of watch sizing, batteries and jewelry cleaning to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Mentioning the non-profit during any purchase will generate a donation too.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie reads a proclamation. Store and Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce officials listen.
winslow park animal hospital celebrates halloween
As it does for (nearly) every holiday, Winslow Park Animal Hospital offers special decorations.
Drivers stuck at the Playhouse Square light — or waiting to turn into the Westport Country Playhouse (aka Winslow Park) parking lot — are enjoying the Halloween fun.
(Photo/Ed Simek)
go big or go home: entitled parking edition
Speaking of Playhouse Square: We offer this photo, without comment.
Feel free to add your own.
(Photo/Dave Matlow)
PINKALICIOUS DAY AT THE GREEN
October is orange, for Halloween. Jesup Green is, well, green.
But pink was the predominant color yesterday there. “Pinkalicious” author (and Westport resident) Victoria Kann read from (and signed) her new book, “Snickerdoodle.” Trick or treating followed.
Victoria Kann and friend. (Photo/Susan Garment)
“WESTPORT … NATURALLY” & SONG OF THE DAY
Fall foliage continues to amaze and inspire us.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo is from Lansdowne Condominiums.
(Photo/Lauri Weiser)
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And finally … on this date in 1825, the Erie Canal opened. For the first time, Lake Erie had direct access to the Hudson River — and beyond.
(With the Stroll and special art, “06880” is ready for the holidays. If we’re on your gift list, please click here to make a tax-deductible donation. What a way to start the season — thank you!)