At 8 a.m. the Sunday before last, Kristin Mott Purcell was already hard at work.
The Soundview Summer Stroll was 2 hours away. In the months before, the Compo Beach resident had already arranged for permits and a police officer; served as a liaison with the Parks & Recreation Department; helped arrange bands and kids’ activities; posted signs, and taken care of dozens of other details that would bring smiles to the faces to a few thousand visitors to her neighborhood.
Now she was setting up tents, marking spots for 20 non-profit organizations, and troubleshooting music and food issues.
In between she found time to water the planters that brighten up (and slow traffic down on) the beach exit road a few yards from her home.
It was all in a morning’s work for the always-smiling, ever-volunteering longtime Compo resident. (Not coincidentally, she represents the area — and all of District 1 — on the Representative Town Meeting.)
Kristin Mott Purcell
The Compo Beach Improvement Association is one of the sponsors of the Soundview Stroll (along with “06880). But in reality, Kristin is the CBIA.
She’s been a stalwart of the 100-year-old organization, keeping it running at a time of diminishing volunteers. She serves as treasurer. She helps organize the end-of-summer party. And then there are those planters …
If a job needs doing, Kristin does it. And if she’s doing it, it’s done the right way. (But always with a smile.)
Kristin Mott Purcell (left), with Deborah Webb and Michelle Cardello, at the festive start of Soundview Drive. They help ensure it always looks good.
Kristin was an early and driving force behind the creation of the Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum, adjacent to Earthplace. She helped lead the drive to put holiday lights on the Cribari Bridge, when Al DiGuido stepped away after 25 years. She joined other RTM members planting tulips at the Minute Man monument.
All that is in addition to her full-time, “real” job. Kristin founded Amberlake Capital, an outsourced marketing and investor relations partner to emerging and established investment managers.
I’m sure I’m missing a few — probably more than a few — other activities that Kristin is part of.
That’s because she does not go around touting her work. She just does it — quietly, efficiently, effectively.
And always with a smile.
Those Soundview Stroll tents did not put themselves up. Or take themselves down.
It took Kristin Mott Purcell to do it. Which is why she is “06880”‘s Unsung Herof the Week.
And every other one too.
Last Friday, Kristin Mott Purcell’s (center) husband Terry, daughters and friends threw a surprise birthday party for her. The site was (of course) Compo Beach.
(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com. “06880” is proud to honor them — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to help us do that, by supporting this hyper-local blog.)
As students head off to college, they pack many things: Clothes. Electronics. Favorite items from home.
And: Narcan.
Positive Directions offers a safety kit for students with the medication that quickly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, plus fentanyl test strips, a lock bag for drugs, info cards and more.
There’s also a 15-20 minute info session on mental health, substance risks and resources at college, including overdose signs and how to administer Narcan.
To celebrate, a proclamation signed by Governor Lamont will be read at 11 a.m. tomorrow (Thursday), at the Westport Farmers’ Market.
It’s all part of the weekly event — with fresh produce, breads, meats, ice cream, pizza, Thai food, dog treats, food trucks, knife sharpening, live music and more — at the Imperial Avenue parking lot. Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., every Thursday through November.
Westport Local Press just posted several dozen shots, by noted event photographer JC Martin. Click here for those images — and to see if you’re included.
The Campaign School at Yale University is coming to Westport.
The event — just before Election Day (Saturday, October 24, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) — is a 1-day training program covering how to prepare to run for office, work on a campaign, or effectively lead on an issue in your community.
The curriculum includes speaking techniques, networking skills, and the components necessary to begin a political career, both personally and professionally.
Questions? Email Info@TCSYale.org, or call 203.734.7385.
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The Westport Rotary Club got a backstage look at the Levitt Pavilion yesterday — without leaving Green’s Farms Church.
Andy Fleischman, president of the Levitt board, spoke at the weekly lunch gathering.
A finance attorney with music industry experience, he got involved with the outdoor venue in 2018, to help improve its relationship with the town. He also was interested in the acts being booked, but did not want to interfere in what was already an impressive summer lineup.
He’s helped bring younger popular acts to the open-air theater. A few years ago, he contributed to the effort to book Wilton’s Goose. They recently sold out 2 nights at Madison Square Garden.
Up-and-coming jam band Eggy, which played at the Levitt this summer, also has developed a national profile.
Andy Fleischman at the Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
A few hundred StartUp Westport members ate, drank, socialized — and of course networked — at the group’s summer get-together last night, at Compo Beach.
StartUp Westport is the town’s public/private partnership for entrepreneurs and innovators. It sponsors general and special interest meetings, mentor programs, a pitch contest — and, like last night, an opportunity for creative, like-minded and very interesting people to hang out together, by the water in beautiful weather.
There was a lot going on here last night. Besides the National Night Out on Jesup Green, StartUp Westport’s summer social (above) and the Y’s Men’s regular hot dog event — both at the beach — there was an indoor activity at the Westport Library.
Author Chris Bohjalian spoke with CT Public’s Catherine Shen about his new novel, “The Amateur.” It’s a suspenseful, emotionally charged story about tragedy, privilege, secrets, and the devastating ripple effects of one split-second mistake.
Chris Bohjalian and Catherine Shen. (Photo/Susan Garment)
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We feature many fascinating creatures in our daily “Westport … Naturally” series.
But none are more intriguing than owls. Who knows why we have such a soft spot for them?!
Yesterday, an “06880” reader asked about the status of the Cross Highway bridge replacement project.
Timing is everything. Two hours later, Department of Public Works director Larry Roberts announced the launch of a Monthly Project Update.
It’s designed to keep residents informed about municipal infrastructure and construction projects. Beginning now, it’s available on the town website,
Each update will include the name and location of projects, a brief scope of work, the current status, and the anticipated completion date.
Other projects underway include Compo Road South sidewalks and Compo marina seawall replacement (estimated completion, this fall), Sherwood Mill Pond tide gates (November), and Compo marina pier replacement (spring 2027).
Questions about any current or upcoming project? Call DPW: 203-341-1120.
So about Cross Highway: It’s still scheduled to be completed “prior to the start of the school year.”
This is the bridge that’s being replaced.
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Every year, the Levitt Pavilion offers 50-plus nights of free entertainment.
But it relies on several paid-ticketed events to keep the (stage) lights on.
A few of those shows are upcoming. The biggest: Bonnie Raitt (next Sunday, August 9).
Coming soon:
The Revivalists, with Olivia Barnes (August 11)
The Machine performs Pink Floyd (August 21)
Andy Frasco & the UN and Kitchen Dwellers, with Magoo
Charlie Hall’s Get Up With It: Miles Davis Centennial (August 24)
Mihali: Full bnd show, with Mr. Mota (September 4)
Hollywood Nights: Bob Seger Experience (September 5)
Tuesday (August 4, 7 p.m.): The Joy Clark Trio. Her debut album, “Tell It to the Wind,” marks Clark’s arrival on the national stage as a proud, queer Black woman. She blends the social consciousness of folk, the rhythms of southeast Louisiana, and the soul-centered music she grew up with.
Wednesday (August 5. 7 p.m.): Children’s Series, with Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winner Flor Bromley.
Thursday (August 6, 7:30 p.m.): Homage to the “Days Between*” with The Red Planet and special guest Crispin Cioe — the Westport saxophonist who played on “Love Shack,” and has recorded and toured with the Rolling Stones, James Brown, Ray Charles, the B-52s, Robert Plant, Solomon Burke, Joe Cocker, Debbie Harry and Aretha Franklin. *The “Days Between” is the 9-day period from August 1 to 9, marking the birth and death of Jerry Garcia.
Friday (August 7, 7:30 p.m.): The Devon Gilfillian Time Will Tell tour. Devon’s music ranges from neo-soul and R&B to funk and rock. Devon recently appeared at the Newport Folk Festival.
Other free August shows include breakout band Improvement Movement with Memo, Christine Ohlman (aka the Beehive Queen), Logical Pretzel (the music of Steely Dan), pop classical stars the String Queens,. Lizzy & the Triggerman (swing) and Broadway and American Songbook favorite Frank Mastrone & Friends. Click here for details, and more information.
Free shows at the Levitt Pavilion.
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Speaking of entertainment: Congratulations, Daniel Planas!
Last Thursday during the weekly Jazz at the Post show at VFW Post 399, the young saxophonist from Stratford received the Jazz Society of Fairfield County’s Micky Golomb Scholarship. He is a rising sophomore, studying music at the University of Connecticut.
Created to honor the memory of a local saxophonist, educator and regular attendee of the Jazz Society’s Thursday performances, the scholarship is awarded to students pursuing a career in jazz performance, composition and/or jazz education. It is based on musicianship, determined by a jury of professional jazz educators.
In addition to the receiving the $5000 award, Daniel joined an all-star group of jazz musicians at last week’s Thursday night Latin Jazz show. He played with Michael Mossman, professor of jazz studies at Queens College and Julliard, Cuban pianist Luis Perdono, 6- time Grammy winner Vince Cherico, Alex “Apolo” Ayala, Carly Moldanado, and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
Daniel Planas (left) and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” wall, at VFW Post 399.
A new networking tradition began last week at Zucca Gastrobar.
Business owners, executives, entrepreneurs and local leaders joined at the debut of the Executive Networking Series. The initiative strengthens business relationships, while introducing local companies to nonprofit organizations throughout Fairfield County.
It was created through a partnership between VTB Financial and Prestige Cabinetry & Design LLC
The first event featured Operation Hope and the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club. Representatives from both groups highlighted the impact their programs have across the region.
A generous donation was presented to Operation Hope by Dushi Marble & Granite. The next Executive Networking Series will be announced soon. For more information, email anna.b@PCDTeam.com.
Executive Networking Series at Zucca. (Photo/Sylvia Janik Photography)
Local resident Peter Mossa died on July 25. He was 58.
His family calls Peter “the kind of person who could brighten any room simply by walking into it. He had a true sparkle, infectious enthusiasm, and a gift for making everyone feel like a friend. He never cared much for formalities — you were far more likely to find him in shorts, a t-shirt and barefoot than dressed up.”
He enjoyed his family, spending time with friends, sharing stories, making people laugh, snowboarding, snowmobiling and celebrating the holidays at his parents’ home in Vermont. Summers were spent on his boat, fishing or tying up with friends to barbecue.
Peter was also a gifted craftsman, whose skill and attention to detail left a lasting mark on countless homes and the lives of those who live in them. His strong work ethic, integrity and dedication earned the respect of everyone.
His family says, “For many years, Peter battled clinical depression. He sought treatment, held onto hope, and never stopped trying to find healing. Though his illness ultimately claimed his life, it never defined the man he was. Peter is deeply loved, and his loss leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Peter is survived by his wife Arlene; children Haley and Max; parents Joseph and Deanna; siblings Susan Young (Larry), Joe Jr. (Luisa) and Katie Carmody (Josh); in-laws Wendy Jacobsen (Stephen); several nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends,
His family says, “For those who knew Peter, please remember his laughter and sense of humor, his compassion, his strong loyalty, and his unending love for family and friends. While our hearts are shattered, we find comfort in knowing he is now at peace. We’re forever grateful for the joy he brought into our world and the love he shared so freely.
The family encourages anyone struggling with depression or mental illness to reach out for help (everwellct.org), keep talking, and hold onto hope. Peter’s story is a reminder that mental illness can affect anyone- and is an illness —not a weakness—and that every life is precious.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Pete’s name to your local Humane Society, animal shelter or your favorite charity organization.
Peter’s memorial aervice will be held August 6 (11 a.m., Norfield Congregational Church, Weston). Casual Florida attire is encouraged.
Mark Mathias provides today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, with this note:
“After last week’s storm overflowed Deadman Broo between Winslow Park and Saugatuck cemetery, the marshy parts did what they were supposed to do and absorbed much of the overflow.
“The moisture also brought to life this beautiful fungus/mushroom/whatever (I’m not a botanist) that I trust will remain while the ground stays moist.”
And finally … Vicki Wickham was not a household name. But she was “a behind-the-scenes force in popular music who helped oversee the influential British television showcase ‘Ready Steady Go!'” and managed artists including Labelle and the singer Dusty Springfield.
(If you’ve ever discovered a great show — or other event — here, well, that’s our job. We do it 24/7/365. But we can’t do it without your support. Please click here to thank us with a donation! Thank you!)
For well over 50 years, the Levitt Pavilion has hosted thousands of concerts and shows. Hundreds of thousands of folks of all ages have enjoyed all sorts of entertainment.
Soon, the outdoor venue will be even more accessible.
Work is proceeding well on a ramp, from the Imperial Avenue parking lot to the Levitt.
The ramp is funded through the town budget via an appropriation. Construction is expected to be completed by mid-September — perhaps earlier.
The new ramp, near the Levitt Pavilion. (Photo/Lauri Weiser)
Public Works director Larry Roberts says, “We built flexibility into the construction schedule to allow the contractor to work around the busy lineup of shows at the Levitt. I am pleased with the progress to date.”
The ramp is just one part of a broader effort to improve accessibility to town-owned facilities — including the Imperial site. Newly configured ADA-compliant parking and a new handicap-accessible bathroom have recently opened there.
For more than 70 consecutive months, VFW Post 399 sponsors a blood drive.
But it’s not enough. For only the second time in its history, the Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis.
All blood types are urgently needed, but the shortage is particularly severe for type O blood. The supply of type O positive blood has fallen below 1 day, and the Red Cross has begun limiting distribution of certain blood products to hospitals.
NOTE: The Westport Library has just scheduled a blood drive for August 13 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
In Connecticut, only about 1/3 of blood donation appointments for the next month are filled. Thousands of open appointments are critical to meeting patient needs.
You can help by:
making an appointment through the Blood Donor app (RedCrossBlood.org), or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Referring businesses, organizations or individuals interested in hosting a blood drive to the app.
Remember: At any moment, someone we love, a neighbor, or complete stranger could depend on a lifesaving blood transfusion.
Deer are a dime a dozen here. We get several photos a day, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature. Sorry; we can’t use 99% of them.
But an albino deer — that’s worth posting.
Marie Gross spotted this one in her back yard. It was visiting her bird feeders.
(Photo/Marie Gross)
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And finally … in honor of the Long Island Sound dolphin pod (story above):
(From dolphins and albino deer to blood drives and ADA ramps, “06880” reports it all. And we do it 24/7/365. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you1)
It showed Cockenoe Island — the 28-acre sanctuary a mile off Compo Beach.
With a nuclear power plant.
The AI-generated image was a reminder of what might have been. In the 1960s, United Illuminating proposed building exactly that.
Remarkably, some Westporters thought it was a good idea. (“Great for our tax base!”)
Fortuitously, others were aghast. After several years of controversy — and politics, and negotiations — the town paid $200,000 to buy Cockenoe Island.
It’s been ours ever since.
It’s still unbuilt, uninhabited, and an oasis for all. Anyone can sail or kayak out there. (A permit from the Conservation Department is required for overnight camping.)
So even though the Cockenoe nuclear power plant kerfuffle happened decades before he was born (and predates his parents too), Alex wanted to follow up.
The other day, he flew his drone over the island.
The result: a spectacular view, from exactly the right height and angle.
In fact, it’s one of the best Westport images I’ve ever seen.
(Drone photo/Alex O’Brien)
Posting it here does not do it justice. Nor does enlarging it, with your fingers or whatever tool you have on your computer or phone.
Alex’s high-res shot deserves to be seen — and admired — in a much larger format.
Fortunately, the young photographer has a nice side business selling prints. Email him: alex@westportdronephotography.com. (And click here to see more of his work.)
Alex did not ask me to post this. He doesn’t even know I’m doing it.
But it’s the least I can do to celebrate him, and 60 years of a nuclear power plant-free Cockenoe Island.
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