Category Archives: Environment

Roundup: Rainbow Crosswalk, WFM Grow-a-Row; DTC Candidates …

Posted on June 1, 2023 | 7 comments

Pride Month is just a few hours old.

But already, Westport has a rainbow crosswalk.

Dr. Nikki Gorman (right) and Danielle Dobin, hard at work. Gorman and Galia Gichon are the crosswalk’s sponsors.

A hardy crew of 11 — including Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore;  crosswalk sponsor Dr. Nikki Gorman; Public Works Department director Pete Ratkiewich; RTM members Harris Falk and Sal Liccione; Planning & Zoning commission chair Danielle Dobin; Westport Pride founder Brian McGunagle, and members Nicole Klein, Bethany Eppner and Geoff Gaspar — gathered at the Jesup Road/Taylor Place intersection at 5 a.m. today, to install the crosswalk.

Putting down the crosswalk, as the sun rose.

The selectwomen unanimously approved the installation, for the month of June. If it holds up under traffic, it will become permanent.

Ta da!

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Every Thursday is special at the Westport Farmers’ Market.

Starting next week, things will get even more so.

On June 9, the Market’s partnership with Grow-a-Row Westport begins again. The organization helps market goers fight food insecurity in the area, by donating wholesome, home grown produce.

Home gardeners drop off their fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs at the Grow-a-Row Westport collection cooler, by the WFM information booth. Volunteers from Food Rescue US – Fairfield County bring the fresh produce to Fairfield County agencies serving food-insecure residents.

Last year, donated produce was shared among Westport Housing Authority’s 221 households, including seniors and children. It’s considered a luxury by many recipients.

The Westport Farmers’ Market takes place at the Imperial Avenue parking lot every Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., through November.

Westporter Cornelia Olsen donated a huge rutabaga last year.

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The Democratic Town Committee’s slate of suggested candidates for November’s local elections has many familiar names.

But one of those names is in an unfamiliar slot.

The Nominations Committee has recommended these candidates to run for re-election: Lee Goldstein and Neil Phlllips (Board of Education); Paul Lebowitz (Planning & Zoning Commission); Jim Ezzes (Zoning Board of Appeals), and Nancy Dupier (Board of Finance).

The one surprise: Danielle Dobin, Planning & Zoning chair, was recommended to run for the Board of Finance.

Dobin — who has served on the P&Z since 2017 — is in the middle of her 2nd 4-year term. An attorney, she has a background in land use, real estate, acquisitions and business development.

The DTC will vote formally on the recommendations on July 18.

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Last weekend, 150 artists from around the country came to town, for the 50th annual Fine Arts Festival.

Soon, hundreds of local students will display their own works. They’re the Fine Arts Festival artists of the future.

The Westport Public Schools’ visual arts exhibition — SPARK — is on view June 8-11 at MoCA Westport. Works of students from pre-K through 12th grade will be on display.

New at SPARK this year is a special exhibit by Westport professional artist Mark Yurkiw: “Help Build the Bridge: Westport-France-Ukraine.” Constructed by Yurkiw, and adorned with art from students, the goal is to extend messages of good will to children in Westport’s sister cities.

A reception is set for June 11 (2 to 4 p.m.).

Artwork by Staples High School student Sophia Kuhner.

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Speaking of MoCA:

Connecticut Magazine’s June issue is out. It’s a guide to the state’s “hidden gem” museums.

MoCA is (of course) one of the 42 that are featured.

But it’s the only one on the cover:

Click here to view the entire issue.

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Sherwood Island State Park celebrates Trails Day this weekend with 4 great (and free) events.

Kayak paddle (Saturday, June 3; 9:30 a.m.; arrive by 9:15, east end of East Beach parking lot). Bring your own kayak, canoe or other paddlecraft, plus a pump/bailer; life vest and whistle or horn are required. Bring waterproof binoculars for spotting birds, and/or a waterproof camera. It’s a long carry over the beach, so bring a kayak cart with wide wheels for sand if you have one.

Butterfly walk (Saturday, June 3; 2 p.m., Nature Center). Michele Sorensen leads an exploration of the gardens and natural areas of caterpillars, skippers, moths and butterflies. Bring binoculars, and a camera. Children are welcome (ages 4 and up).

Nature walk (Saturday, June 3; 2 p.m., Nature Center). Walk the beach;  discover habitats, inhabitants and special features like the 9/11 Memorial, model airport, wetlands and pine forest).

Horseshoe crab walk (Sunday, June 4; 11 a.m., Nature Center). Be prepared to wade in shallow water. Learn about crabs’ distinctive biology, life cycle, medical uses and conservation needs. 

Archaeology walk (Sunday, June 4; 1 p.m., Nature Center). Archaeologists Dawn Brown and Ernie Wiegand will highlight points of interest, terrain, and examine traces of past inhabitants of Sherwood Island, from 1000 BC to the 1940s, including Native American, early settlers and onion farmers. Artifacts, maps, old photos and recent recoveries will be used.

Click here for more information all all events.

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Among Westport’s many hidden gems, Blau House & Gardens may be the most unknown of all.

Located at the end of Bayberry Ridge — a narrow, rutted road off Bayberry — the house was designed by theatrical stage set designer Ralph Alswang. It’s set between towering great oaks.

The grand gardens — by advertising executive Barry Blau — were created in response to the house. They incorporate native plants interspersed with a blend of exotics. They must be seen to be believed.

On June 11, you’ll get your chance.

“The Last Lallapaloosa” includes a host of activities.

Planting ceremony: Native rosebud trees; 9 a.m.; free (maximum 40 people)

Tour of Blau Gardens: 10 a.m.; $20 per person (maximum 36 people)

Book reading and signing of “Pinkalicious: Fairy House” by author/ illustrator Victoria Kann: 11 a.m.; $15 per child (maximum 25 children). Each child received 2 Pinkalicious books; other activities include coloring, plant a bean to take home and watch grow; find the fairy houses in the garden.

Gentle yoga with Millie: 1 p.m.; $20 per person (maximum 20 people)

Book reading and signing of “The Frog Who Wanted to See the Sea” by author/illustrator Guy Billout: 2:30 p.m.; $20 per child (maximum 20 children). Also: find a frog along the stream; plant a bean to take home and watch grow.

Tour of Blau Gardens: 4:30 p.m.; $20 per person (maximum 36 people)

Garden reception: 6 to 8 p.m.; $75 per person (maximum 50 people). Help create a Blau House & Garden future.

Click here to register (deadline: June 5), and for information on payment and shuttle transportation from Coleytown Elementary School.

A small part of Blau Gardens.

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Did you hear the one about the dozen comedians who are taking the stage to raise money for writers?

Not the striking TV writers in LA. This event — “Lit & Wit” — is for the Westport Writers’ Workshop outreach program. It provides free writing instruction to underserved populations and communities.

The event is June 7 (7 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club; $50 per ticket).

Click here for tickets. And enjoy Jerry Kuyper’s very witty lit-minded logo below.

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Longtime Westporter Marty Resnick casts off this week, on a month-long sailing voyage to Portsmouth, England. His crew mates are Roger Townsend and Gareth Thomas.

Fair winds!

Marty Resnick (left) and crew. (Photo and hat tip/Tom Roth)

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Wendy Levy loves Burying Hill Beach.

She often finds a fresh way at looking at the water, sand, pier, marshes, tidal pools — and of course, the “burying hill” at the Greens Farms oasis.

Her photos often find their way to our “Westport … Naturally” feature. Here iis today’s image:

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … today is June 1.

That means one thing:

(Celebrate June with a donation to “06880.” Please click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Children, Downtown, Education, Environment, Local politics

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Sustainable Westport Directors Chart Net Zero Path

Posted on June 1, 2023 | 13 comments

Everyone talks about sustainability. We all want our planet — and town — to continue existing, without depleting our natural resources.

There’s even an organization — Sustainable Westport — with the word in its name.

But not many of us know exactly what that is, or what it does.

Johanna Martell and Gately Ross do.

Johanna Martell and Gately Ross.

They’re co-directors of the organization. After its formation in 2006, when 1st Selectman Gordon Joseloff appointed a Green Task Force, the volunteer group proposed and helped enact policies to help reduce Westport’s carbon footprint.

In 2017, the Representative Town Meeting passed its recommendation for the town to become Net Zero by 2050. 

To expands its reach, the Green Task Force separated from the town, and was rebranded as Sustainable Westport in 2020.

While remaining financially and operationally independent, the organization moved under the umbrella of Earthplace, a non-profit committed to building passion and respect for the natural world.

This year, Sustainable Westport separated from Earthplace to become a 501(c)3 itself, with its own board of directors and staff.

But the mission of Sustainable Westport has not changed. The goal is to inspire, support and connect residents, organizations, and the town of Westport to use best efforts to become a Net Zero community by 2050.

Martell joined Sustainable Westport after a career largely in commercial real estate. A local resident since 2013, she realized during COVID that she wanted work with more meaning. Her friend Nico Eisenberger suggested Sustainable Westport.

Martell had taken environmental law in college. And though she had never worked for a non-profit — “and for no money,” she says — the fit seemed perfect.

Ross — whose career was in veterinary medicine, but had a marine conservation background, and who moved to Westport in 2007 with the first of her 3 children — was also looking to get back in the work force, and knew she’d work well with Martell.

At that point, Sustainable Westport was best known for its Zero Food Waste Challenge. Ross’ involvement began with the first composting class, at Greens Farms Elementary School.

In 2019, Greens Farms Elementary School students avidly joined the compost effort.

But there is a whole new group of Westporters — parents with school-age children — who know little about Sustainable Westport. Ross and Martell were eager to tap into that network.

It’s been harder than they thought. Though the schools have been champions for sustainability since before the two got involved, efforts have been siloed.

In their first year as directors, Martell and Ross tried to go through PTAs. But they realized that’s only one approach.

“We needed both top-down and bottom-up,” Ross says.

They’ve begun meeting with personnel throughout the Westport Public Schools. They’ve expanded their reach to other stakeholders: Wakeman Town Farm, the Westport Farmers Market, RTM Environment Committee, town departments and more — including 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and operations director Tom Kiely.

Westporters flock to the Farmers’ Market. They do their share to educate shoppers about sustainability.

The goal is to get “all the different groups talking with each other.”

“Planning and Zoning, Public Works — everyone needs to think about sustainability,” Martell notes.

“We know it’s hard to add more to people’s plates. But we can provide them with information and resources, to help in any way we can.”

“We want to engage more people — especially young families,” adds Ross. “They’ve got kids who are growing up. We want them to think about what their town and planet will look like in the future.

“We know people can be disinterested or, on the other hand, can feel overwhelmed. But the first step inspires the second, and the third. Then you can see, you’re making a difference.”

So are Sustainable Westport’s (unpaid) co-directors optimistic or pessimistic that their organization is making an impact?

“It depends on the day,” Ross admits. “Some things are frustrating. Naively, we thought the process would be easier and faster.”

“Things can be controversial,” says Martell. “This is a very engaged town. People have opinions about everything.”

Still, Westport — the first municipality east of the Mississippi River to enact a plastic bag ban, which followed up with a plastic straw ban — is seen as a sustainable leader, despite the difficulties of enforcement.

“Other towns look to us,” Ross says.

So Sustainable Westport keeps moving forward.

In January, they launched “Refill Not Landfill.”

The program encourages residents to use reusable mugs at coffee shops to reduce waste, combat climate change, and help support small businesses.

At checkout,  participants scan a QR code to enter their name and email. Five refills (at any location) qualifies for a monthly raffle.

“We all carry water bottles. Why not coffee cups too?” Martell asks.

 

“Coffee cups are not recyclable. That’s a huge generator of trash that we’re addressing.”

Participation is “fantastic” by 15 local coffee shops, cafés, markets and restaurants.

But not enough residents have joined in.

Gately Ross and Johanna Martell keep plugging forward — one coffee cup, compost pile and paper bag at a time.

They’re in it for the long haul. And they’ve got their sights set on that Net Zero town target: 2050.

(To learn more about Sustainable Westport, click here.)

(Want to help sustain “06880”? Please click here. Thank you!)

Participants in Sustainable Westport’s “Refill Not Landfill” program

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Posted in Environment, Restaurants

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Roundup: Fine Arts Festival, Ospreys, Dementia …

Posted on May 29, 2023 | 1 comment

The 50th annual Fine Arts Festival ended yesterday just as it began Saturday: with huge crowds, a great variety of excellent art, plenty of music and food, and tons of smiles.

The Westport Downtown Association drew raves for the organization, execution and energy of what many called the “best ever” of all 50 shows.

The family-friendly event included a children’s art project, sponsored by the Artists Collective of Westport. Youngsters drew a huge whale in chalk, near Bedford Square.

It was part of Westport artist Jana Ireijo’s “Vanishing Mural” project. It looked great. But it will eventually disappear — emphasizing the fragility of the natural world.

The not-yet-completed, but eventually vanishing, whale. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The Fine Arts Festival was pet-friendly too — for real dogs, and artistic ones.

(Photo/Ted Horowitz)

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Yesterday, as Carolyn Doan does what she often does — checking on the Fresh Market ospreys — a concerned woman in the parking lot said she had not seen them in a couple of weeks. She worried they were no longer there.

Carolyn reports, happily, that all is well. Both adults were in the nest, doing fine.

“They are probably taking care of hatching eggs or very young chicks now,” she says.

“When they sit on the eggs, it’s very hard to see them. Thank you to the nice lady who asked about them!”

And thank you, Carolyn, for sending along this photo:

(Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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Of all the difficult traffic merges in town, one of the worst is heading west on Coleytown Road, where it runs into Lyons Plains Road.

You stop, crane your neck, and hope for the best. Not only can’t you see to the right — but oncoming traffic does not stop, in either direction.

Some drivers may not be aware of that last fact.

Fortunately, a new addition to the stop sign lets you know.

It won’t help you see. But in this case at least, a little knowledge is not a dangerous thing.

(Photo and hat tip: Stacy Prince)

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The League of Women Voters of Westport’s annual meeting and lunch is Wednesday, June 7 (11:30 a.m., Green’s Farms Congregational Church).

The public is invited — and welcome to stay for a very timely panel.

The topic: “Building Consensus in Today’s Political Climate.” Panelists include  Jim Marpe, former Westport first selectman; Ken Bernhard, former Connecticut state representative, and Dr. Nora Madjar, associate professor of management at the University of Connecticut School of Business.

The lunch (cheese platter, sliced beef tenderloin, poached salmon, 4 salads, dessert) is $50 per person. RSVP to celestelacroix@hotmail.com, or send checks to LWV Westport, PO Box 285, Westport, CT 06881.

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Homes with Hope brought back its famed “Gather ‘Round the Table” fundraiser, for Project Return at Susie’s House.

Among the 240 guests at the Shorehaven Golf Club luncheon were the keynote speaker,  Connecticut Commissioner of Housing Seila Mosquera-Bruno; Westport 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and the many town employees who work hard behind the scenes to support the home and program.

Plans have been approved for renovations, to better accommodate homeless women in Fairfield County. The program offers long-term housing in a nurturing, home-like environment.

From left: Lena Holleran, Connecticut Department of Housing; Homes With Hope program director Paris Looney; Seila Mosquero Bruno, Connecticut Commissioner of Housing; executive director Helen McAlinden;; Carmen Ayala of Homes with Hope, at the “Gather ‘Round the Table” fundraiser.

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Looking for “The Complete Family Guide to Dementia”?

Thomas Harrison and Dr. Brent Forester — authors of a book by the same name — will be at The Residence at Westport on June 19 (4 p.m.), talking about that subject.

A limited number of complimentary books are available. To RSVP, email ddunning@residencewestport.com, or call 203-349-2002.

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Before he graduated in 2005, Igor Pikayzen was already one of the most talented violinists in Staples High School’s long musical history.

After Juilliard, a master’s degree and artist’s diploma from Yale University, a doctorate in musical arts at CUNY and solo appearances with major orchestras at Carnegie Hall and Alice Tully Hall in New York, Tchaikovsky Hall in Moscow and more, he founded Festivo Edalio.

The opening concert June 11 (7:30 p.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church) celebrates the joy of sharing live music.

Pikayzen will play Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons.” As the violinist says, “‘Edelio’ means ‘forever young.’ This masterpiece remains beloved 300 years after it was composed.”

The program also includes the “Estaciones Porteñas” of Argentine legend Astor Piazzolla.

Edelio continues at the Pequot Library June 14 (7 p.m.). The return to chamber music features Mozart’s impeccable piano quartet in G minor, the rarely played edgy and tumultuous first Shostakovich trio, and the triumphant Dvorak piano quartet.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Igor Pikayzen

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Most “Westport … Naturally” photos are completely natural.

Today’s, from Hillandale Road, shows a man-made assist to Mother Nature.

Come to think of it, the hedge and stone wall look a bit unnatural too.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … on this (and every) Memorial Day, we salute all the men and women who served in our armed forces. And we remember the far too many, who gave their lives so that we can be here today, living ours.

(“06880” is honored to bring you news and information about Westport, on this holiday and every day. Please consider a contribution to help us continue. Click here — and thank you.) 

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Environment, Politics, Transportation

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Roundup: Metro-North, Super-Duper Weenies, All-Terrain Wheelchair …

Posted on May 26, 2023 | 1 comment

The Connecticut Legislature could cut up to $40 million from the $267 million the state pays to fund Metro-North’s New Haven line.

That would slice the number of daily trains from 309 to 260. Both peak and off-peak service would be affected.

Click here for the full New York Daily News story. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)

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Club 203 had a super-duper time last night.

Literally.

The Super Duper Weenie Truck) fed over 100 attendees, at Longshore’s Evan Harding Point picnic area.

The group — part of Westport’s social organizations for adults with disabilities — enjoying dancing, dining, dessert, yard games, art with MOCA, and relaxing, all with great views of Long Island Sound.

Organizers give a shoutout too to their “super-duper volunteers.”

Club 203’s next event is June 15 (6:30 to 8 p.m.), at the Westport Library. Click here for details.

Club 203 fun at Longshore. (Photo/Jacqueline Lobdell)

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Wakeman Town Farm is a fantastic resource for people of all ages and interests.

Now, it’s accessible to those with mobility issues.

The Westport Garden Club recently donated funds for a Fold & Go all-terrain electric wheelchair. It’s been delivered, just in time for the spring/summer season.

People with limited mobility, or their friends or relatives, should email  education@wakemantownfarm.org before a visit. The Farm’s dducation coordinator will have the wheelchair waiting.

From left: Kelle Ruden, Joan Andrews and Ginger Donaher, with the all-terrain wheelchair at Wakeman Town Farm.

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Visitors to yesterday’s Westport Farmers’ Market enjoyed great weather; the usual wide variety of food, herbs and more — and a “Ducks in Buckets” game.

The Westport Sunrise Rotary Club was there, promoting their annual Great Duck Race.

$10,000.00 in prize money will be given away; the grand prize winner gets $5,000 of it. All proceeds go to charities.

The annual fundraiser is Saturday, June 24 at Jesup Green. Attendance is free. Tickets to compete are available online; at the Farmers’ Market next Thursday (July 1); from any club member, and the day of the race.  

Pitching in for the Great Duck Race, at the Farmers’ Market.

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Climate change and racial justice are key issues.

And they’re related. Environmental impacts cross borders. They affect every group of citizens.

On June 1 (7 p.m., Westport Library), Roosevelt Institute director of climate policy Rhiana Gunn-Wright will explore the connections between environmental justice and racial justice. Her talk is called “Just Transitions to Regional Sustainability.”

The event is part of a Saugatuck Congregational Church initiative to “embrace our coastal community” and is a partnership with the Library, TEAM Westport, and Sustainable Westport. Click here for more information.

Rhiana Gunn-Wright

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“06880” usually bird dogs new businesses.

But we missed the arrival recently of Birddogs.

The mens’ shorts/pants/polo shirts shop is open in Brooks Corner. It’s their 3rd brick-and-mortar store. The others are in New York City and Short Hills, New Jersey.

Click here for their minimalist website. Or check them out for yourself.

(Photo and hat tip/Stacey Henske)

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Coming soon at the Westport Country Playhouse:

A reading of the comedy “Quick Service” as part of the New Works series (June 5, 7 p.m.; meet the playwright and director afterward). All tickets are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

A “Script in Hand” play reading of Agatha Christie’s “The Murder Of Roger Ackroyd” (June 12, 7 p.m.). All tickets are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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A longtime tradition continued this morning.

A group of dads gathered at 5:30 a.m. to install a water slide for Kings Highway Elementary School’s field day.

At 100 feet long and 50 feet wide, that’s no easy task.

Even harder, no doubt, will be wrestling it — big and wet — back into its original packaging.

Great weather for a water slide!

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Sorelle Gallery on Church Lane showcases Daniel Pollera and Michele Poirier-Mozzone, from June 2 through 24.

He focuses on land and seascapes, while she paints soft, fragmented figures from underwater vantage points. Both explore themes of water and light, and the relationship between them.

Click here for more information.

Artwork by Daniel Pollera

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Speaking of art: Around the corner from Sorelle, in Sconset Square, Vanessa Lewis’ recently relocated her Penfield Collective “retail concept” (I’m assuming that means “store”) from Fairfield.

Now there’s a new addition, right outside.

Donna Forma’s sculpture has been installed at the door. Made of laminated walnut, it has been treated to become weather resistant.

The new artwork is all in the family. Lewis is Forma’s daughter.

Donna Forma’s sculpture.

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Summer is near. Which means more and more beachgoers will see sights like this — today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

Horseshoe crabs are fascinating creatures. Scary, ugly, primordial, they send a strong message: “Stay away. This is our beach. We were here first.”

We walk warily past them.

Unless you’re a kid. In which case you pick them up, with a combination of courage and awe.

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And finally … Rolf Harris, the Australian singer whose “Tie Me Kangaroo  Down, Sport” was a huge novelty hit, but whose long career on British television ended when he was convicted of sexually abusing teenage girls — died earlier this month in England. He was 93.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Celebrate Memorial Day weekend the traditional way: with a contribution to “06880.” Please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Library, Local business, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Yankee Doodle Fair, Wakeman Farm Stand, Emmy Squared …

Posted on May 23, 2023 | 8 comments

Okay, now we know summer is just around the corner.

The Westport Woman’s Club has announced the dates for the Yankee Doodle Fair.

The decades-in-fact-almost-a-century-old tradition returns Fathers Day weekend. From Thursday, June 15 through Sunday, June 18, the grounds and parking lot on Imperial Avenue will transform from a staid club into a carnival, for “kids” of all ages.

Profits support charities throughout Fairfield County, need-based scholarships to Staples High School students, and the Woman’s Club food closet.

Among the rides: a carousel, Flying Dumbo, Dizzy Dragon, Frog Hopper, Scrambler, Cliff Hanger, Zero Gravity and Expo Wheel. Unlimited ride wristbands make things easy (and inexpensive). 

Entertainment includes rock and country/bluegrass bands. There are raffle prizes and a “take a chance” tent. 

Plus of course a food court with hamburgers, hot dogs, Greek food, Good Humor ice cream, baked goods — and beer and wine.

Last year, proceeds helped the WWC fund $300,000 for a new Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services ambulance.

The greatest show on earth (or at least, in Westport). (Photo/Lee Scharfstein)

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Another sign of summer: The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand opens June 10.

Running every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October 28, the stand features fresh organic produce and flower bouquets from the Farm, WTF honey and logo wear, plus local artisanal products like organic coffee, bread, pastries, extra virgin olive oils, gourmet balsamic vinegars and salsas.

BMW of Darien  is the summer and fall sponsor of the Wakeman Town Farm farm stand. The dealership will also serve as a lead sponsor of WTF’s annual fundraiser, Harvest Fest.

The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand.

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Speaking of food: Westport pizza lovers (perhaps that’s a redundant phrase) salivated at news that Emmy Squared is coming to town.

The Brooklyn-based restaurant is known for its “Detroit-style pizza”: square, crisp bottom, fluffy dough, cheesy crust and sauce strpes.

Their double-stack burger — served on a pretzel bun — was named one of the “20 Best Burgers in New York” by The Infatuation.

There are 8 location in New York, Nashville, Philadelphia, Washington and Louisville. Number 9 will be …

… at the site of the now-closed Amis Trattoria.

That’s the center-of-town location next to Anthropologie, where Church Lane meets the Post Road near Main Street.

No word yet on an opening. The salivation continues.

Pizzas from Emmy Squared.

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gorjana comes to 74 Main Street on June 16.

And if you don’t know — as I did not — what is replacing the Sunglass Hut, read this breathless press release from the Laguna Beach-based jewelry brand (which for some reason does not use a capital letter in its name):

“When gorjana Westport officially opens its doors, shoppers will be immersed in a welcoming coastal bungalow inspired by co-founders Gorjana Reidel and Jason Griffin Reidel’s Southern California roots. Light wood finishes, a crystal quartz chandelier, three sparkling window pendants and a hand-dipped Lauren Williams Tapestry inspired by the iconic Laguna Beach coastline create the perfect backdrop to gorjana’s elevated yet effortless designs.

“Located in a beautifully restored historic building along bustling Main Street, the store will bring together the best of Southern California with the charming history of Westport right in the heart of the coastal city. gorjana Westport is the perfect shopping destination for out-of-towners and locals alike.

This is gorjana’s 49th location, but only the second in Connecticut. The first was in Greenwich.

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Two weeks ago, a college student named Emily posted a TikTok. She wanted to give a hand-painted romantic gift to a classmate she had a crush on, but needed her followers to give her confidence.

@wayn3sw0r1d

both of our love languages are gift giving, and she’s also extremely crafty, so no i dont think this is too much #fyp#foryou#wlw#wlwtiktok help

♬ original sound – wayn3sw0r1d

The video went viral, with over a million views. She got more validation than she ever dreamed of.

Five days later, she shared an update. The woman she gave the gift to loved it.

Now they’re dating.

The woman is Samantha Webster — a 2021 Staples High School graduate.

As for Sam, she texted her parents that she had a new girlfriend.

And, she said, a million people knew before her parents did.

@wayn3sw0r1d

Replying to @Mikala Walker the highly anticipated cupdate: I didnt get a chance to package it up all cute, but I was too excited I couldn’t wait any longer💛🌼#fyp#foryou#wlw#wlwtiktok#dandelions

♬ Dandelions (Originally Performed by Ruth B.) – Piano Karaoke Version – Sing2Piano

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MoCA Westport just hired its first-ever director of performing arts.

Kristen Young knows MoCA well. She’s worked there for 3 years, most recently as its music associate. She created the Music at MoCA concert series, bringing a diverse range of emerging and established artists to the museum.

In her expanded role Young will curate all performing arts experiences, fostering collaborations with music programs across the region, and providing music education opportunities.

Young holds a master’s in violin performance and a graduate certificate in arts management and entrepreneurship from the University of Oklahoma, and a bachelor’s in music management from the University of Delaware.

Kristen Young (Photo/Nina Capozzi Photography)

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Speaking of music: Jazz at the Post favorite Melissa Newman returns this Thursday (May 25; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner begins at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $15 cover; reservations: JazzatthePost@gmail.com).

The Westporter will be joined by guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Bobby Leonard.

Melissa Newman

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Speaking still of the performing arts:

Saugatuck Congregational Church song leader Anthony DeLuco hosts a recital at the church on June 10 (4 p.m.). It’s a fundraiser, to support his attendance at an intensive vocal workshop this summer in Salzburg, Austria.

DeLuco is a young Western Connecticut State University graduate (with many honors and awards). He’s in his second year as a high school teacher.

He’ll play works by Mozart, Schubert, Schumann and more. Donations can be made at the recital or by clicking on this GoFundMe link.

Anthony DeLuco

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It’s not graffiti, at the Post Road/Main Street intersection.

And they’re not hieroglyphics.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

They’re markings for utility workers.

But what do all those symbols, arrows and colors mean?

If you know, please click “Comments” below.

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Understated yet colorful landscaping near Saugatuck Shores stands out in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/David Stone)

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And finally … on this day in 1829, Cyrill Demian was granted an Austrian patent for the accordion.

(“06880” is your home for accordion music — and much more. Please click here to support what we do. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Environment, Restaurants

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Dog Day Afternoon (And Morning)

Posted on May 22, 2023 | 3 comments

Yesterday’s 7th annual Dog Festival brought the usual thousands of canines — and owners, families and vendors — to Winslow Park.

Pooches prowled, preened, ran through an obstacle course, competed for prizes, enjoyed treats, and sniffed each other avidly.

Thanks to the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, dozens of volunteers, all the sponsors — and of course, every dog. It would not have been your day without you.

(All photos/Dan Woog)

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Posted in Environment

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Pic Of The Day #2224

Posted on May 20, 2023 | 1 comment

Leonard Schine Nature Preserve (Photo/Mark Mathias)

1 Comment

Posted in Environment, Pic of the Day

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Roundup: Fireworks, Whoopi Goldberg, Chad Knight …

Posted on May 19, 2023 | 3 comments

Fire up the celebration!

Westport’s Independence Day fireworks come early this year.

The best party in town is set for Thursday, June 29. The site — as always — is Compo Beach.

The Westport Police Athletic League and Parks & Recreation do the heavy lifting. The event is sponsored — once again — by longtime Westport residents (and veteran fireworks goers) Melissa and Doug Bernstein.

“This is our favorite time of year in Westport, seeing this amazing community gather together for such a joy-filled event,” they say.

Ticket sales begin on June 1 at the Westport Police station (50 Jesup Road) and Parks & Recreation office (in Longshore Park).

Tickets ($50 per car) are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Proceeds benefit Westport PAL, and their programs serving thousands of youngsters.

Middle row: Craig Bergamo, Westport PAL president hands Doug Bernstein the first fireworks ticket. Enjoying the Compo Beach scene are (front, left to right): Parks &  Rec director Jen Fava, PAL fireworks chair Emma Rojas, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Melissa Bernstein. Top: Deputy Police Chief Ryan Paulsson, Police Chief Foti Koskinas. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Whoopi Goldberg was in town last night.

So were Rosie Perez and Natasha Bedingfield. And many other names, boldface and Roman text.

The event was a benefit fashion show for Pink Aid. The site was Christian Siriano‘s The Collective West.

And yes, he’s another boldface name.

Rosie Perez, Whoopi Goldberg and Natasha Bedingfield — but you knew that. (Photo and hat tip: Dave Briggs)

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Perfect weather drew a large crowd to yesterday’s Westport Farmers’ Market.

Several new vendors, plenty of old favorites, and fresh food, herbs and more make this the most exciting year yet, for the 18-year-old institution.

It runs every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Imperial Avenue parking lot, through mid-November.

Among the attractions yesterday in the photo below: samples from Alma Mexican food, dished out by their Staples High School interns (from left): Whitman Teplica, Cole Lieberman, Ben Douglas and (preparing a tostada) Steve Divino.

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Chad Knight is a Westport legend.

The baseball star — who led his 2013 team to the Little League World Series championship game, then was a 4-year Staples High School starter who paced his 2019 team to the FCIAC championship, and was named Gatorade State Player of the Year — just graduated from Duke University.

Before he did, he capped off his Blue Devil baseball career (during Asian American Heritage Month) with a story for the Duke athletic department. He wrote eloquently about how his heritage shaped his life — both athletically and musically.

Click here for Chad’s insightful, introspective story. (Hat tip: Steve McCoy)

Chad Knight

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Traffic alert!

This Sunday (May 21), the Bloomin’ Metric Bicycle Tour roars through town.

From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., riders will head out from Sherwood Island State Park. There are 4 distances — 25, 40, 75 and 100 kilometers — and 4 different routes.

So be aware: There will be even more bike riders than usual, all over town.

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The Westport Library unveils 3 new exhibitions for spring. They highlight the work of Connecticut artists Nancy Moore and Charles Douthat, and “the art of the album” with a display related to the Chicago blues.

All three exhibits run through August 8: Moore’s “Women Telling Stories” in the Sheffer Gallery, Douthat’s “Three Seasons” in the South Gallery, and “Chicago Blues” in the Jesup Gallery.

An event and reception June 4 (2 to 4 p.m.) celebrates the exhibit with a talk between Moore and noted Westport artist Miggs Burroughs at 3.

Douthat comes to the Library June 14 (6 p.m.) for a reception and talk with Burroughs.

Chicago Blues features albums from the collection of Westporters Ellen and Mark Naftalin, the American blues keyboardist inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band in 2015. It includes album covers of important original blues musicians.

Click here for more information on the artists and exhibits.

Exhibits at the Westport Library.

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The Black Duck women-in-the-men’s-bathroom-photo story continues to have, um, legs.

In the wake of yesterday’s story — in which Duck founder and former owner Pete Aitkin gave the back story — Brad French sent “06880” a photo of himself with Mary Scully, one of the 2 lovely bartenders.

It was taken at Compo Beach.

And what happened to the great-looking couple?

They got married.

The story continues …

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Coming up at Earthplace:

Wildflower ID: Stroll through the gardens and meadow with a naturalist. (Sunday, May 21, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., $10 per person; register here).

Family Campfire: Earthplace provides the marshmallows and s’mores; bring your own sticks. Meet an animal ambassador; participate in a guided activity. (Friday, June 9, 6 to 7:30 p.m., member families $30, non-member families $40; register here).

Foraging 101: An Earthplace naturalist leads an introductory class on sustainable foraging for wild salad greens and pungent ingredients, including a walk. (Sunday, June 11, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., $10 person; register here).

Group Canoe Paddle: Search the Saugatuck River for egrets, ospreys, ducks, shorebirds and more. Canoes, paddles and personal flotation devices are included. One canoe each trip is reserved for participants and families with special needs. (Sunday, June 18, 2 time slots: 10 a.m. to noon, and 2-4 p.m.; click here for fees and more details, including scholarships for income-eligible residents).

Adult Crafting Night: Bring your adult beverages; use natural crafting materials guided by staff. Unwind while creating beautiful decorations or useful health and beauty products to take home. (Thursday, June 29, 6 to 8 p.m.; $45 per adult member; $50 per adult non-member; register here).

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The Westport Weston Family YMCA is ready for their first Holi Color Festival.

People of all backgrounds are invited to the traditional Indian celebration of colors and unity, It’s Saturday, June 3 (10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mahackeno Outdooro Center).

Holi symbolizes the triumph of good over bad, the arrival of spring, the joy of friendship, and equality for all.

The event features activities for all ages, including color play (throwing non-toxic organic colors), BollyX (a Bollywood-style dance class), traditional Indian food, henna, face painting and bounce house.

Westport Y CEO Anjali McCormick grew up in India, and has fond memories of playing Holi as a child.

She says, “This celebration unites people with different beliefs, cultural traditions and experiences in the vibrant colors of friendship, renewal and acceptance. At the Y we believe in creating spaces where people of all backgrounds can come together, learn from one another, and build meaningful connections. We invite everyone to join us as we strengthen the bonds that make our community truly exceptional.”

Pre-registration is required. Click here to register, and for more information. Questions? Email kgiglio@westporty.org.

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Moxie Salon & Beauty Bar invites the public to their grand opening May 25 (772 Post Road East, 3 p.m.).

From May 22-26, they offer:
● $19.99 blowouts for first time clients
● $20 off any color service
● $10 off haircuts
● $89 blowout and makeup
● 20% off hair extensions.

Owner Carrie Steele — a Greenwich teacher — offers 20% of all services to teachers, every day.

Moxie is a full-service hair salon. They have 17 locations in the tri-state area.

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Lynroy Henry — former assistant track coach at Staples High School — is still working with kids.

He sends word that the Open Doors Foundation is collecting donations for its summer camp.

Items needed are bikes, used sneakers, Mead notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, rulers, backpacks, laptops and electronics.

Donations can be dropped off at 10 Bay Street, by June 4.

Items can also be picked up weekdays, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Questions? Email lynroyhenry@gmail.com, or call 203-919-0921.

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Jill Grayson made the most of being stuck yesterday while stopped on Easton Road by the firehouse.

She saw something she’d never seen in Westport: a pileated woodpecker.

Jill had enough time to take several photos — and then send this one to “06880,” for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Jill Grayson)

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 And finally … on this day in 1895, José Marti — the Cuban poet, philosopher, essayist, journalist, translator, professor and publisher, who helped liberate his country from Spain — was killed by Spanish troops. He was 42 years old.

(“06880” is a non-profit, dedicated to bringing our community together. Donations are tax-deductible. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Library, Sports, YMCA

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Leaf Blower Ordinance Begins Tomorrow

Posted on May 14, 2023 | 21 comments

Westport’s new gas-powered leaf blower ordinance takes effect tomorrow.

Representative Town Meeting member Kristin Schneeman writes:

In January, Westport became one of the first towns in Connecticut to limit the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.

This year, from May 15 through October 15, gas-powered handheld and backpack leaf blowers may not be used on Sundays or holidays; after 3 p.m. on Saturdays, and before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. on weekdays (unless you are a homeowner doing their own yardwork or are using an electric blower.)

Beginning in 2024, gas blowers will be banned between May 15 and October 15 each year.  Please let your landscapers and neighbors know!

The town has chosen to regulate the use of gas leaf blowers for a number of reasons:

  • Most gas leaf blowers use extremely inefficient “two-stroke” engines that spew large amounts of fine particulate matter and other pollutants into the air. The California Air Resources Board studied lawn and garden equipment and found that the best-selling commercial gas leaf blower put out more smog-forming pollution in one hour than a Toyota Camry driving 1,100 miles.
  • Health of residents and workers. The pollutants leaf blowers emit are known to cause cancer, heart problems, respiratory issues, problems in pregnancy, and even premature death for those with certain conditions. Landscape workers suffer the most, due to chronic exposure. Gas leaf blowers can also blast air at 200+ miles an hour, kicking up clouds of dust, mold, pollen, animal feces, and other tiny particles that linger in the air. These can irritate and cause health problems for both humans and pets.
  • Gas leaf blowers are so loud that they can cause hearing loss fairly quickly for anyone within a 50-foot radius. Their noise has a strong low-frequency component that makes it travel especially far and pass through walls and windows easily. A typical crew operating multiple machines generates enough noise to exceed EPA community standards for 800 feet in all directions, making it difficult to concentrate for people working from home or attending school remotely.

 

Electric leaf blower.

  • Leaf blowers destroy the natural layer of leaf litter that protects and nourishes plants and wildlife, including pollinators hibernating there for the winter.
  • Lawn and garden beauty. Simply leaving short grass clippings on the lawn recycles their nutrients into the soil. In the fall, leaves can be mulched with a lawn mower or left on garden beds, where they will protect plants through the winter, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure and health. Instead of leaf blowers, we hope Westport property owners will use and encourage their landscapers to use some combination of battery-powered tools, mulch mowing, rakes, and “leaving the leaves” in garden beds.

For more details, scan the QR code or click here.

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Posted in Environment, Local politics

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Pic Of The Day #2217

Posted on May 13, 2023 | 2 comments

Swan on the Saugatuck (Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

2 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Environment, Pic of the Day

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