Category Archives: Environment

Roundup: Suzanne Sherman Propp, Post-High School Plans, Teens Work …

Posted on April 29, 2023 | 3 comments

Suzanne Sherman Propp came to her current gig — a very popular Greens Farms Elementary School music teacher — after a long career as a performer. (She learned her craft growing up in Westport, and as a Staples High School student.)

Suzanne Sheridan is a longtime resident, and well-known musician too. She recently started the “First Folk Sunday” series at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.

People sometimes confuse the 2 Suzannes.

A week from tomorrow — May 7, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. — Suzanne Sherman Propp headlines Suzanne Sheridan’s First Folk Sunday.

She’ll be joined by Bob Cooper. Her husband, Peter Propp, will bring his mandolin for a few tunes.

There’s brunch, and a cash bar (including mimosas and make-your-own Bloody Marys). The cover is $10; click here for tickets.

Suzanne Sherman Propp and Peter Propp.

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Staples High School’s counseling department does a great job helping seniors get into college.

But they’re just as focused on supporting students considering paths other than traditional 4-year degrees.

“Finding Your Path: Exploring Post-High School Options” (May 9, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library) features representatives from the military, community college, vocational school, and gap and postgraduate programs.

Local graduates who pursued those paths will be there too, to talk about their experiences and answer quesitons.

Students of all ages, and their families, are invited.

2011 Staples graduate Asia Bravo joined the military — and was accepted into its new Space Force program. She is shown here with B. Chance Saltzman, director of space operations.

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Middle and high school students looking to make money through outdoor yard work this spring and summer can join Westport’s Department of Human Services “We Do Walkways” program.

It’s a great way to connect teenagers with senior citizens. The suggested minimum is $15 an hour; chores are limited to outside.

Students must complete an enrollment form and receive parental permission to participate. Contact Westport’s Department of Human Services at 203-341-1050 or email humansrv@westportct.gov with questions.

Seniors can join the “We Do Walkway” list by calling Human Services at 203-341-1050 or emailing humansrv@westportct.gov.

Teenagers: lend a hand!

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Author, author!

This Thursday (May 4, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.), the Westport Senior Center hosts a “Meet the Authors” event.

More than a dozen local authors will discuss their books, in an informal questions. They’ll sell and sign them too. Light refreshments will be served.

Scheduled to appear: Winston Allen, Jill Amadio, Ronald Blumenfeld, Prill Boyle, Elaine Breakstone, Don Harrison, Scott Kuhner, Deborah Levinson, Diane Lowman, Allia Zobel Nolan, Penny Pearlman, Mark Perlman, Deborah Quinn, Lynn Ellen Russo, Patricia Sabena, Sue Stewart, Elizabeth Thomas Jean Marie Wiesen.

Prill Boyle is among the many excellent authors at the Senior Center. (Photo/Suzanne Sheridan)

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Harbor Watch needs a new boat.

The Earthplace-based organization — which for decades has monitored and restored local waterways — must get a new vessel, for research and education programs. It is imperative to maintain their biological and chemical data.

Tickets are on sale for their “Cocktails & Clams” fundraiser (June 10, 5 to 7 p.m.). The Copps Island Oysters location in Norwalk offers an unlimited and very fresh raw bar, hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, live jazz, silent auction — and spectacular views of Long Island Sound.

Tickets are $200 each; click here. Sponsorships are available too; click here. To donate for the new boat, click here.

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Reminder: The launch party for “Pick of the Pics” — the “06880” book highlighting over 100 of our blog’s best Pics of the Day — is tomorrow (sunday, April 30, 2 to 4 p.m., Savvy + Grace, 146 Main Street).

Books will be available for purchase at a special price of $20 (regular Amazon price: $24.95).

I’ll sign copies; so will Lyah Muktavaram, my “06880” intern who did 99% of the work on it.

Photographers featured in the book can pick up a free book at the launch party too.

Can’t make it? Click here to order!

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Speaking of books:

After a great run in Saugatuck, Fairfield County Story Lab is moving.

On Monday, the popular workplace for writers leaves its 21 Charles Street top-floor space for 95 Mill Plain Road, in the Fairfield Arts District.

They have to give up their prime Saugatuck spot for an equally great site a few miles east. They’ll still be near plenty of restaurants, right near a train station and I-95.

Fairfield County Story Lab offers a free work day for writers and creatives (and a free week for former members). Call 203-374-8343 for more details.

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Yesterday’s weather was forgettable.

But one couple will always remember it.

They got married — in the wind and intermittent rain — by the Compo Beach cannons.

Congratulations to the new bridge and groom — whoever you are!

(Photo/Gara Morse)

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The Westport Weston Family YMCA’s 100th anniversary celebration continues, with a yoga fundraiser May 11 (10 to 11 a.m.).

100 participants in a “Breath, Body & Balance” class at the Mahackeno Outdoor Center will be led by Greg Barringer.

There’s a $100 registration fee/donation per person. Funds go to the Y’s Financial Assistance Program, serving under-resourced families and those in need.

Participants get a high-quality 100-year anniversary yoga mat, and a flower from Blossom +Stem. Click here to register.

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Members of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston, and spouses, toured Stamford’s 400,000-square foot world headquarters of NBC Sports this week.

It was an eye-opening, behind-the-scenes look at all that goes into a telecast that most of us take for granted.

Tour guide Terri Leopold shows off the NBC Sports facility. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Sorelle Gallery’s new exhibition, “Connected Layers,” features abstract artists Julia Contacessi and Teodora Guererra.

It opens Friday (May 5, 19 Church Lane), with a reception set for Saturday (May 6, 3 to 6 p.m.). Click here for more information.

Julia Contacessi

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Westporters know Ed Gerber for his preservation work around town.

He’s also a trustee of Historic New England. In that role, he’s sponsoring a “Connecticut Preservation at Work” speaker series.

The free event kicks off June 2 (2 p.m., Metro Art Studios, 345 Railroad Avenue, Bridgeport) with speeches by the co-owners and developers of historic Crown Corset Factory, Bridgeport’s director of business development and more. For more information, click here.

Ed Gerber

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It will rain all day today. And tomorrow.

So here’s a “Westport … Naturally” photo — taken a couple of days ago — to remind us all that the weather here has been pretty good this spring.

And remember: April showers bring May flowers.

The calendar guarantees that April showers end tomorrow night.

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … April 29 is Eeyore’s birthday. He’s 40 today — and every day.

What a life!

(Our “06880” Roundup tells you what’s going on in Westport — today, and every day. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Environment, Library, YMCA

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Roundup: Free Trees, Open Doors, Police Arrests …

Posted on April 27, 2023 | 12 comments

Get your seeds!

The Westport Tree Board celebrates Arbor Day with a tree seedling giveaway tomorrow (Friday, April 28, 3 to 5 p.m., rear of Town Hall near the softball field).

The seedlings come with planting instructions for school-age children and residents of Westport on a first-come, first-serve basis. They’re donated by Bartlett Tree Service.

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A reader who works on Riverside Avenue writes: “A stroll down Main Street recently, on an exceptionally warm day, spurred me into action.

Almost every door to every retail establishment was propped open, air conditioning the outdoors. And as always (I walk 2-3 miles a day in town) I passed many parked cars, engines idling with owners sitting inside, engrossed mostly in cell phones.

I think emissions could be curtailed significantly 2 ways:
• A reduction of idling vehicles (epidemic even during reasonable weather)
• Stores not opening their doors to attract people (heating the outside in cold weather, cooling it in hot),

Legislatively, these things could take much longer than we have to reduce our emissions and our warming climate.

What if they both were tackled as PSAs? Part education via some easily digestible data, and part message along the lines of “What can I do?” Perhaps a campaign akin to the crying Native American of our childhood, the icon for the anti-pollution campaign that was very effective in cleaning up our littered roadways.

A national effort is needed. Perhaps we here can take a leadership position.

This photo ran on “06880” in 2012. More than a decade later, little has changed.

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Westport Police were busy recently.

The Staples High School school resource officer was alerted to an irate parent in the front lobby. As the SRO approached the lobby he heard a man screaming at school staff. The man became increasingly agitated, about a custody issue. A staff member had to put their hand up in a defensive move.

The SRO could not de-escalate the situation, but moved the conversation outside The man continued to act aggressively, and refused to obey lawful orders from the SRO. He was arrested, and charged with criminal trespass, interfering/resisting an officer, and breach of peace.

Another shoplifting incident at Ulta Beauty led to the arrest of 4 people, for larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, and illegal possession of a shoplifting device.

Westport Police also issued a number of citations, from April 19-26:

  • Operating a motor vehicle with a telephone, electronic device or texting: 16 citations
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 8
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 8
  • Unreasonable speed: 6
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 6
  • Improper use of marker: 6
  • Distracted driving, not cell: 5
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 5
  • Failure to comply with state traffic regulations: 4
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 3
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Improper use of high beams: 1
  • Violation of readable plates: 1
  • Illegal tint: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to carry license: 1.

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A year ago, “06880” reported on Westport10: the social and networking group for Black men in town and their families.

The other day, News12 Connecticut picked up the story, with an insightful interview with founder Jay Norris.

He talked about the benefits and opportunities for the organization — now “Westport 100,” as it’s grown from 4 men to 55, plus their spouses and children — for the members, and all of Westport.

Click here for the full interview.

A recent Westport 100 lunch at Hudson Malone.

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The opening of the Westport Woman’s Club’s 3-day art show will be special.

On May 5 (5-7 p.m.), Staples seniors Chloe Hackett and Mia Vindiola will be awarded scholarships of $10,000 each. The 2 very talented students plan to pursue arts careers — thanks in large part to the grants from the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.

The scholarships will be presented by Miggs Burroughs of the DFCAC, and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker. The scholarship project was a collaborative effort with “06880.”

The show continues May 6 and 7 (2 to 5 p.m.). Featured artists include Nina Bentley, Ola Bossin, Michael Brennecke, Ellen Ehli, Susan Fehlinger, Hernan Garcia, Erszebet Laurinyecz, Katya Lebrija, Diane Pollack, Tina Puckett, Jon Puzzuoli, Dorothy Robertshaw, Katherine Ross, Agata Tria and Kathleen Rampe.

All art will be on sale.

Mia Vindiola and Chloe Hackett.

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Several Staples student journalists with Inklings were honored recently by the Connecticut Press Club, as winners of their High School Communications Contest.

Finnegan Courtney cleaned up, taking 1st, 2nd and 3rd places for Best Newscast (“On the Wreckord,” episodes 6, 5 and 3 respectively.

Also taking 1st: Genevieve Frucht (Feature Story, for “Logan Goodman ’24 Incorporates Love for Sneakers, Art into Business”), Anna Diorio (Opinion, “The Damaging Effects of ‘I’m Just Teasing'”), and Talia Moskowitz (Sports, “Report Highlights Impact of Wealth Inequality on State Championships in Connecticut”).

Caroline Zajac was 3rd in the News Story contest, for “Connecticut Swatting Incident Highlights Growing National Problem.”

Samantha Sandrew placed 3rd for Video Feature Story, for “Sneakerheads of Staples.” Anna Diorio earned honorable mention in the category, for “The Power of a Good Book: A Discussion with Staples’ Librarians.”

Congratulations to all of Staples’ superb journalists!

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Speaking still of Staples:

The boys lacrosse team’s annual “Sticks for Soldiers” event is this Saturday (12:30 p.m., Paul Lane Field).

The ceremony — before the 1 p.m. game against Greenwich — highlights the service and sacrifice made by our military. Funds raised support wounded veterans and their families.

A minimum donation of $5 is suggested. For more information and to donate, click here or email edward.iannone@gmail.com.

Staples lacrosse players have worn special jerseys to honor “Sticks for Soldiers.”

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Longtime Westporter Daisy McCann died last Friday, surrounded by her family. She was 98 years old.

Her family says, “She lived a long and wonderful life, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith and a commitment to giving back to her community.”

Daisy was born in New York City on May 31, 1924. She earned a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Hunter College.

After World War II she married Navy veteran Hugh (Bud) McCann. They moved to Westport in 1959, where all 6 of their children lived and attended school: Hugh Jr. (Sarah) of Venice, Florida; Marguerite Francis of New London, New Hampshire; Tom (Mary Jo) of Nantucket, Massachusetts; Rosemary Semanski (Paul) of West Hartford; Tim (Tricia) of Easton, and Rich Tina) of Darien. Daisy is also survived by her grandchildren Katie, Scott, Kristen, Brittany, Shana, Kyle, Conor, Erin, Ali, Jack and Colin, and 7 great-grandchildren. Her family says, “She loved shopping for all of the wee ones in her extended family, and nothing brought a smile to her face more than their visits.”

She was predeceased by her husband.

Daisy was a trustee at St. Luke Parish, where she organized ladies’ luncheons for several decades and hosted generations of priests at her holiday parties. “She loved to feed people; it was her love language, whether at the church, in her home, or at the Norwalk Soup Kitchen.” In recent years, attending St. Luke’s regularly became more challenging, yet she never missed her daily digital Mass.

The family will receive friends tomorrow (Friday, April 28, 4-7 p.m., Shaughnessey Banks Funeral Home, 50 Reef Road, Fairfield). A Requiem Mass will be held Saturday (10 a.m., St. Luke). Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Near & Far Aid in memory of Daisy McCann at www.nearandfaraid.org (select donate); P.O. Box 717, Southport, CT 06890 (note honoree’s name in memo).

Daisy McCann

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A Burritt’s Landing bald eagle poses for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Dan Vener)

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And finally … on this day in 1981, Xerox PARC introduced the computer mouse.

(You never know what you’ll find on “06880,” right? Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Obituaries, Police, Sports, Staples HS

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Gone Fishin’

Posted on April 24, 2023 | 11 comments

Kids these days.

They spend all their time playing video games, checking social media, and …

… fishing.

Richard Wiese sees them all over the place. Compo Beach, Ford Road, the Saugatuck Reservoir — in large groups and small, even alone — teens and tweens are spending time (lots of time) enjoying one of mankind’s oldest activities.

Fishing at Compo Beach. (Photo/Richard Wiese)

Richard has a dog in the hunt. The longtime Weston resident — a former president of The Explorers Club, and host and executive producer of the Emmy-winning “Born to Explore” — grew up fishing at Stony Brook Harbor and on the Nissequogue River, just across Long Island Sound from here.

But when he took his young sons Alex and Ricky out on a boat, they quickly grew bored.

Then came COVID.

The pandemic was “an inflection point,” Richard says.

Stuck inside not of their own volition, starved for contact with friends — but warned by parents about doing anything in close proximity with them — his twin sons began hiking and biking.

And fishing.

For Richard — who grew up “doing actual outdoor activities” — it was a joy to see.

Particularly since his 2 boys were among the most avid young fishermen.

Richard Wiese and his sons.

It happened organically. Kids were discovering the lure of fishing on their own.

And though they thought they were just having fun, Richard knew they were gaining life skills.

Every hour spent fishing — not on a phone — teaches “patience and perseverance.”

When they fish, youngsters who are hyper or anxious grow calm. “It’s almost like Zen meditation,” Richard says. Then they focus, for far longer than on other activities.

Richard iese’s son, at the Saugatuck Reservoir … (Photo/Richard Wiese)

Fishing represents “optimism and hope. There’s always the promise of catching something — maybe even the big one.”

There’s also a connection with nature. That’s especially important, Richard says, for young people who spend far more time indoors than previous generations.

And — go figure — fishing is educational too.

Richard’s sons and his friends discuss water temperature, the right weight line to use, the best way to cast, the biology of the river, the weather, the birds nearby.

“Fishing is all about problem-solving,” Richard notes.

Not to mention responsibility. The same teenagers who throw their stuff everywhere, all over the house, learn quickly that if they do that with their fishing gear, they’ll spend way too much time later untangling lines.

“Every day is Earth Day” to fishermen, Richard says. His sons have learned the importance of keeping rivers, reservoirs and Long Island Sound clean and healthy.

Just a few years ago, the only folks fishing on Ford Road were men in their 50s and older. They’ve been joined by teenage boys — and Richard’s 14-year-old daughter Sabrina.

… and in the Saugatuck River, at Ford Road. (Photo/Richard Wiese)

The Wieses did not fish here over spring break. They were in South Africa.

But Alex and Ricky were less interested in a safari than in fishing. “We’d pass a pond, and they’d ask what was in it,” Richard says. “They talk about fishing incessantly.”

Except when they don’t.

Fishing is great for sitting quietly, next to friends.

But as Opie Taylor-ish as fishing seems, Alex, Ricky and their friends are still 2023 teenagers.

They have not given up their devices completely.

Yet these days when they’re on their phones, they’re likely to be checking out their Fishbrain app.

It’s where they find tips, tools, forecasts, tide charts and more.

And where they feel part of the worldwide fishing community. The app is filled with photos.

The young local fishermen learned quickly how to show off their catches.

“They hold them way out in front of the camera,” Richard says. “Every one looks monstrous.”

It’s a big one! (Photo/Richard Wiese)

(“06880” is filled with fish stories — and more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

A favorite Wiese fishing hole. (Photo/Richard Wiese)

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Posted in Environment, Sports, Weston

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Roundup: Thanks To First Responders; Earth Day Clean-ups …

Posted on April 23, 2023 | 9 comments

On Thursday I posted a video that included a driver heading south on North Avenue, blasting right through the stop sign at Cross Highway.

That evening — just a few hours later — someone did it again.

This time, there was someone else at the intersection.

Amy Lowey Horowitz writes:

“Around 6 p.m.,  I was driving east on Cross Highway. A driver coming south on North Avenue ran the stop sign at high speed, and hit the front of my car. My vehicle turned 90 degrees, ending up also facing south on North Avenue.

“The other driver pulled off, and left.

“I called the police. In what seemed like an instant firefighters, police and ambulance were there, showing me so much kindness and concern.

“I was seriously shaken up, shocked, confused and not even able to answer all their questions. The accident happened so fast.

“I hope to use ‘06880’ to thank all the people who showed up and helped me navigate those first few moments. I was too shocked to learn names. I want to thank all the first responders who showed up, and did more than just their jobs last night.

“I’m fine this morning, grateful for that, as well as the care and treatment that I received.

” also hope that someone witnessed the accident is willing to share what they saw. There were plenty of people driving past right after impact. It is likely that someone may have seen the other car go through the intersection right before he hit me.”

Any witnesses should call the Westport Police: 203-341-6000.

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It was a big Earth Day celebration yesterday downtown. The Westport Downtown Association partnered with Staples’ Service League of Boys (SLOBs) to hit the streets for a cleanup.

They started at Parker Harding Plaza, then headed down Main Street to Church Lane and Elm Street, with a side visit to the Baldwin parking lot.

It’s all bagged up. Downtown looks fresh, nice, and ready for spring.

SLOBs and friends clean up downtown. (Photo/Lee Shufro)

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SLOBs were also at work at the Long Lots preserve.

Director Lou Weinberg reports: “They killed it.”

For more information on this great project next to the Westport Community Gardens, click here.

SLOBs at the Long Lots preserve (from left): Charles Hallett, Cormac Mulvey, Zach Beebe, Dylan Hoke. (Photo/Mike Beebe)

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AND … this was the scene at the very trash-filled Elaine Road site. A large crew picked up plenty of garbage, from the boat launch underneath I-95 all the way to Compo Road South.

RTM member Andrew Colabella helped organize the effort, which included 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, town employees and SLOBs.

Looks like they even found an old highway sign among the mess.

(Photo courtesy Town of Westport)

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The Democratic Women of Westport also celebrated Earth Day yesterday, at athletic fields around town.

Informational tables at “Sustainability on the Sidelines” offered info on small steps families can take to reduce their sports footprint (For xample: carpooling, no idling, and participating in a uniform exchange).

They also gave away Gatorade powders to encourage reusable bottles instead of single use plastic.

Owen Hill had a table too, at the Democratic Women of Westport’s “Sustainability on the Sidelines” Earth Day event.

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Individuals were out in force too.

Below: Rindy Higgins, cleaning up Canal Beach in her Saugatuck Shores neighborhood.

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On Friday Jamie Walsh — chair of the Westport Shellfish Commission and his wife Grayson Braun joined former chair Heather Williams and her husband Colin Walklet.

For several hours, they did their biannual cleanup around Hendrick’s Point — the beautiful spot next to the Longshore golf driving range.

Jamie says: “Among the wide array of beer, soda bottles and cans; remnants of food packaging; bits of styrofoam and over 200 golf balls that cleared the netting that was recently repaired, the most concerning litter was the many bundles of fishing line randomly discarded in the brush.

“I’ve been part of the cleanup for a number of years, but this was the worst. We hauled out 6 large trash bags full of garbage, and enough fishing line to fill half a bag. Most of it had to be cut out of the brush.

“Improper disposal of fishing line creates a huge problem. Birds and small animals get hung up in it. Fishing line disposed on the shoreline can float off and take up to 600 years to decompose, but it generally degrades into micro-plastics that are toxic and dangerous to all marine life. Ultimately, this winds up in the food chain.

“It is our collective responsibility to be stewards of the land and waters, and dispose of all garbage and plastic items such as fishing line responsibly. I urge people to help by picking up stray fishing line they see at the water’s edge. Help us to keep our precious shorelines as pristine as possible.

“We have that responsibility to our natural resources — not just on Earth Day, but every day.”

Clearing fishing lines from the Hendrick’s Point brush.

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In non-Earth Day news, Challenger baseball — the Westport Little League program for youngsters with disabilities — celebrated its 10th anniversary yesterday.

24 players and 16 buddies — plus a cake — marked the memorable occasion.

Challenger players and buddies get ready to play ball.

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MoCA Westport was packed Friday night for a performance by jazz saxophonist Eddie Barbash. He’s a founding member of the house band for “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.” The concert was part of the “Rainbow in the Dark” exhibition.

Next up on the Music at MoCA schedule: This Friday (April 28, 7 p.m.): The Cuatro Puntos Ensemble, pianist Irena Portenko, violinist Kristen Young and musicians from Norwalk Youth Symphony present chamber music for strings by contemporary composers living in Ukraine, including newly commissioned pieces from Odessa and Kyiv. Click here for more details.

Eddie Barbash at MoCA. (Photo/Kristen Young)

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A Saugatuck resident writes:

“I’m concerned about an older man who rides his bike at twilight or early dark near the Saugatuck/Norwalk line.

“He rides erratically, crossing the road from one side to the other, stopping occasionally. He wears a drab raincoat and is nearly invisible in the low light. His bicycle has no reflective devices.

“Late commuters speed home along Saugatuck Avenue, and I fear for this fellow’s life.

“I hesitate to notify the police since the bicycle may be his only transportation. I want to warn readers to be careful in this area.”

Be careful out there!

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Wendy Crowther recently had a close encounter with nature. The result is today’s captivating “Westport … Naturally” photo.

She writes: “A pair of barred owls hung out in the evergreen trees around my yard today. They have a classic-sounding hoot often described as if they’re asking, ‘Who cooks for you, who cooks for you all?’

“As dusk neared, this one flew onto the peak of my garage, waiting patiently for something delicious to scurry by below. It was the perfect pose for a photo. He/she eventually flew off without dinner.”

(Photo/Wendy Crowther)

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And finally … today is the birthday of the amazing Roy Orbison. He died far too young of heart failure in 1988. He was just 52.

The man Elvis Presley called “the greatest singer in the world” had a 4-octave range, earning him the nickname “the Caruso of Rock.”

In fact, music scholars say, Orbison and Enrico Caruso were the only 20th century tenors capable of hitting E over high C.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We’re also a non-profit, so contributions are tax-deductible. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Children, Environment, Police, Sports, Transportation

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Roundup: Club 203 Celebrates, Martha Stewart Returns, Amy Irving Sings …

Posted on April 22, 2023 | 9 comments

Thursday was special for dozens of Club 203 members, relatives, friends and volunteers.

TAP Strength hosted the social group for adults with disabilities, at their 8th event of the year.

The “field day” was led by TAP founder EJ Zebro. His 5-person team facilitated stations for soccer, volleyball, dancing, cornhole, musical chairs and giant Jenga.

Also on “tap”: music, snacks, hacky sack prizes, and lots of laughs.

Joining TAP on Jesup Green were MoCA Westport (crafts and art project), Westport Book Shop (open late for parents to hang out), Lesser Evil Popcorn (snacks), and Kevin Godburn of Toquet Hall (tables and chairs).

Club 203’s next event: a fun day May 25, sponsored by Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department. Click here for more information on the group.

EJ Zebro (far right) and friends have fun at Jesup Green.

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Martha Stewart returns to Westport June 1 (4 to 6 p.m.).

And not just anywhere. The former resident and longtime lifestyle guru will be back at her old Turkey Hill home. She’ll share memories of her years there, as she started her business and grew her media empire.

She’ll guide guests through the gardens, ending with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the patio. (A few guests will stay for dinner with Stewart.)

It’s a fundraiser for Positive Directions, Westport’s behavioral health organization addressing the national mental health crisis.

Tickets are $1,000; $2,500 gets you that dinner. Click here to purchase, and for more details.

Former Westporter Martha Stewart.

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A baseball game between the only 2 undefeated teams in the FCIAC should be a nail-biter.

Yesterday’s was anything but.

Chase Siegel threw a perfect game. He needed just 59 pitches to shut down Danbury 10-0. The game ended early, thanks to the mercy (10-run lead) rule.

It’s been a great season so far for the 7-1 Wreckers, whose lone loss was 8-7 to non-league Fairfield Prep.

Staples has been led by pitchers Hiro Wyatt and Chris Zajac — and great defense. They’ve made only 1 error all season long. Ethan Cukier sparkled at shortstop against the Hatters.

In other Wrecker sports news, the boys lacrosse team — 6-1 after knocking off powerhouses like Massapequa, Bergen Catholic and Darien (13-11, storming back from an 8-1 halftime deficit) are ranked 16th in the latest national poll.

Chase Siegel. (Photo courtesy of Allison Ginzburg for The Ruden Report)

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Kings Highway Elementary School students arrived early yesterday, to meet 2 special guests.

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas starred in a special “Rise & Read” event. They chatted with parents and kids over donuts, hot chocolate and coffee.

Tooker knows KHS well: Her 3 children went there. She read aloud to the current students from a very appropriate book: “Duck for President.”

The youngsters then asked questions, ranging from what she did to if her job is hard, and the benefits of having an office so close to Cold Fusion.

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, and “Duck for President.”

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Compo’s South Beach is a great spot for romance.

Last night’s Pics of the Day featured a young couple enjoying the sunset in a hammock.

Also yesterday; another man proposed, to another woman.

Jody Peters saw it all happen, from a discreet distance. She reports: “I think she said yes…she put the ring on and they exchanged a kiss. It was beautiful.”

(Photo/Jody Peters)

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Everyone knows Amy Irving as an actress.

She’s now a musician. “Born in A Trunk” includes 10 cover songs, pulled from her life and career.

On June 21 (7 p.m.), Westport welcomes her to the Levitt Pavilion stage.

Free tickets are available now to Levitt members. They’ll be available to everyone else on Monday at noon. Click here for yours.

Amy Irving

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For years, one of the joys of Parker Harding Plaza — how’s that for an oxymoron?! — has been the pedestrian bridge.

Jutting into the Saugatuck River just a few yards from asphalt and automobiles, it offers a serene chance to stroll, observe nature, and relax.

Not anymore.

A chain and stern sign now keep everyone at bay.

(Photo/Diane Bosch)

It’s not clear whether the danger is because of rotting wood, to protect nesting swans, or another reason.

Nor is it clear when — or if — the bridge will be safe again.

Or who, exactly, is in charge of making it so.

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The apple doesn’t fall far …

Shea Frimmer — child of Coleytown Middle School Company’s theater program — is directing a reading of “9:47” — a world premier play. It’s next Friday (April 28, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall).

The cast includes 2 professional adult actors, and 3 students.

Tickets are $7 in advance, $10 at the door. Click here to purchase.

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State Representative Dominique Johnson’s office is open to submissions for a Pride Month video essay contest. Any high school student in Westport or Norwalk can enter.

Video submissions should answer this question: “What is something you have done to build community that makes you most proud?” Creativity counts — but videos must be between 1 and 3 minutes only.

There are 2 categories: 9th-10th grade, and 11th-12th. Winners will receive a state citation, and be honored by Representative Johnson June 10 in Norwalk.

Video submissions should be sent to Dominique.johnson@cga.ct.gov. The deadline is May 15.

Representative Dominique Johnson.

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If you’re wondering why the delay on the Merritt Parkway was longer than usual yesterday: There was a car fire by northbound Exit 41.

Be careful out there.

(Photo/Mar Servin)

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Heli Stagg manages the Westport Library café. She sees this view — and others like it, though always changing — often.

Today, she shares it with “06880” readers, for our “Westport … Naturally” treat.

(Photo/Heli Stagg)

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And finally … in honor of the prodigal daughter returning to town (story above):

(You may or may not want to pay $2,500 — or even $1,000 — to see Martha Stewart. But you can contribute any amount to “06880.” We’re happy for any help! Please click here. And thank you!)

 

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Posted in Environment, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Condo Hunt, Village Stories, Touch A Truck …

Posted on April 21, 2023 | 3 comments

In October, “06880” reported that Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito were putting their historic, gorgeous Beechwood home up for sale.

For 10 years, the internationally known pianist and his talented artist wife had opened their property — with its 216-year-old rooms, grand piano and towering copper beech tree — to the public. They hosted innovative salons, with everyone from Joshua Bell to dancers and chefs sharing their talents and ideas.

Six months later, the New York Times has picked up the story.

Frederic and Jeanine are the stars of this Sunday’s Real Estate “The Hunt” feature. Each week, the paper describes a home buyer’s search for the perfect property. Readers learn what they looked and did not purchase (and why) — and, of course, what they finally bought.

On Sunday, you can find out which of 3 Norwalk condos they decided on. You can click on the story here and find out too — but first you’ll have to take a quick quiz on which of the properties you would like, and which one you think Frederic and Jeanine preferred. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)

Jeanine Esposito and Frederic Chiu in their new home. (Photo/Jane Beiles for he New York Times)

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Earth Day is tomorrow.

With no school on Saturday, Kings Highway and Saugatuck Elementary Schools celebrated yesterday.

Parents gathered on the hill between to watch their kids sing “This Land is Your Land,” and offer tips about sustainability and the impact we all have on this planet.

4th and 5th graders beat drums to accompany the 800-plus students singing “This Pretty Planet” by Tom Chapin and Libana’s “The Earth is our Mother.”

The event was the the brainchild of Ashley Moran of SES and Priscila Jones of KHS, with great enthusiasm from music teachers Colleen Cooney and Amy Laurino. (Hat tip: Allegra Gatti Zemel)

Earth Day at Kings Highway and Saugatuck Elementary Schools.

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Every pediatrician’s office has story books in the waiting room.

Village Pediatrics has them outside too.

Patients — and their parents – know that a visit to 323 Riverside Avenue includes time exploring the “story walk” along the Saugatuck River, behind the building.

Dr. Nikki Gorman and her colleagues put up the first story when they moved in, nearly 8 years ago. They’ve changed them seasonally every since.

The Village staff enjoys picking different books to highlight — those with interesting stories, and plenty of illustrations.

The featured book right now is (aptly) “Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring.”

Everyone is welcome to enjoy this great tale. You don’t need an earache or cough to visit Village Pediatrics — well, at least their story walk.

Medical office assistant Nick Schiff Denota joined Village Pediatrics 2 years ago, after graduating from Weston High School. He takes pride in putting up and maintaining the story walk.

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Speaking still of kids: Fire trucks, police cars, ambulances, cranes, dump trucks, buses, big rigs, boats and others roll into the Imperial Avenue parking lot on Saturday, April 29.

They’re all part of the Westport Weston Co-op Nursery School’s 16th annual Touch-A-Truck fundraiser (9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; quiet hour without sirens or horns is 9 to 10 a.m.).

Children of all ages can get up close, climb on, and take photos with vehicles of all shapes and sizes.

They’ll also enjoy food trucks, music, balloon animals, magic shows, face painting, sensory play and more.

Admission is $35 per family. Click here for tickets.

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Moving on to teenagers: What’s the difference between the ACT and SAT exams? Which one should my child take? How much do test scores matter? How do test-optional schools evaluate applications?

Those questions and more will be addressed — and hopefully answered — next Tuesday (7 p.m., Zoom).

College admissions counselor Amy Chatterjee talks about “Everything You Didn’t Know — But Should — About the SATs/ACTs.”

The webinar — sponsored by S4 Study Skills — is free, but registration is required. Click here to sign up.

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As part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Rowan Center — a local sexual assault resource agency — wants everyone to know how to keep children safe.

On Monday, April 24 (7 p.m., MoCA Westport), they’ll share information about social media, mental health, and sexual violence prevention education. Click here for more information. The event is free.

To RSVP, email info@therowancenter.org.

Artwork for the Rowan Center event.

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The limited edition vinyl LP of “Verso Records: Volume One” has arrived. Now, the Westport Library gets ready to celebrate the “artists, conspirators and community” that helped create the first vinyl record ever recorded, produced and released by a public library.

June 3 marks the official release. It includes 12 live tracks from tri-state area artists. Genres include rock, jazz, hip hop, folk and indie. All were recorded at the Library’s Verso Studios.

A release party is set for that night (7 p.m., Trefz Forum). Four of the bands will perform live.

The release party is free. A $25 ticket option includes a copy of “Verso Records: Volume One” and a free drink. (No record player? A digital copy will be available for $10.)

The album is available for pre-order. Preorders can be picked up at the release party, or will be shipped afterward.

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Speaking of music: The United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston celebrates International Jazz Day with a unique, open worship service for all ages and denominations.

The April 30 event (4 p.m.) combines the liturgical traditions of vespers with the exciting, soulful sounds of saxophone player John Collinge, bassist Steve Clarke, pianist Pat Marafiote, drummer Chris Stanley, guitarist Antonio Penn, and vocalist Jae Jones.

It’s a great introduction to jazz for young audiences, and a toe-tapping service for all.

Admission is free (donations are accepted). For more information click here, or call 203-227-4707.

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The comedy/mystery “Bad Accents” kicks off the Westport Country Playhouse’s “New Works” series on Monday (April 24).

The audience is invited to meet playwright Matthew Greene and director Liam Lonegan (Playhouse assistant artistic director) in the lobby after the performance.

Click here for more information, and tickets. All seats are $25.

The cast of 5 includes Halima Henderson.

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“06880 has covered the hatching of swan eggs by the Saugatuck River, a few yards from the hustle, bustle and carbon monoxide of Parker Harding Plaza.

But a couple of days ago — after that birth — Alina Rodescu-Pitchon spotted another mother, with her nest.

“Westport … Naturally” — and all of downtown — is twice blessed.

(Photo/Alina Rodescu-Pitchon)

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And finally … Otis Redding III only 3 years old when his father and namesake died in a 1967 plane crash.

Otis III — who went on to a fruitful, career as a musician — died Tuesday in the Redding family’s home town of Macon, Georgia. He was 59, and suffered from cancer.

Otis III was not burdened by his father’s fame. He had his own band. But he also sang Otis’ biggest hit, “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay.”

Otis III worked with his family’s foundation to organize summer camps, teaching children to play music. And he served as president of the local chapter of Meals on Wheels. Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” scours the world for Westport stories. To help us do it, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Education, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Real estate, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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Pic Of The Day #2194

Posted on April 20, 2023 | 4 comments

Deadman Brook (Photo/Susan Leone)

4 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Environment, Pic of the Day

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Roundup: Grounded Boat, Beach Food, THC …

Posted on April 20, 2023 | 6 comments

A boat ran spectacularly aground yesterday at Compo Beach, near the cannons.

(Photo/Pete Powell)

For the rest of the day — as the tide went out — it sat there, stuck on the jetty rocks.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

Two people on board the New York vessel, “Andiamo” — motoring, not sailing — were rescued by Norwalk police. Neither was injured.

One observer — among the many who flocked to see the unusual sight — said the pilot had tried to avoid lobster traps.

(Photo/Karen Como)

As evening drew near, the boat remained. A salvage crew was expected to attempt a rescue, at midnight’s high tide.

(Photo/Michael Diggin)

Nearly everyone who was there sent photos to “06880.”

Thanks to all who submitted shots. Sorry I could not use them all!

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Two applicants have submitted additional material, in advance of Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (7 p.m., Zoom; click here for the link).

Bluepoint Wellness is in the pre-application process to allow sales of “hybrid” (medical and recreational) marijuana sales at its 1460 Post Road East location. Currently, recreational cannabis sales are not allowed in Westport. Click here for their materials.

There is also a pre-application on a proposal for a change from a single family residence in a residential area into a home offering services for up to 12 unrelated seniors in need of memory care. No specific location has been identified. Click here for those materials.

And the P&Z will hear a request for a “fitcore extreme” (ropes-style) course at Coleytown Middle School, and will discuss a modification of standards of accessory dwelling units. Click here for those materials.

Bluepoint Wellness, at 1460 Post Road East, is in the same shopping plaza at Bevmax. There is no large scene above the medical marijuana dispensary.

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Last month, Bedford Middle School 7th graders wrote letters, drew pictures and created posters for youngsters in Lyman, Ukraine — Westport’s sister city.

In a couple of weeks, Ukraine Aid International will deliver them all to boys and girls in that embattled town.

Now, every other Westport student can do the same.

It’s a great project for families and friends. Letters, drawings, posters of encouragement — all are welcome. They’ll be combined with the BMS project, for delivery to Lyman soon.

They can be dropped off on the front porch of 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore’s house: 2A Baker Avenue (between Compo Road South and Imperial Avenue). Blue and yellow balloons (Ukrainian colors) will be on the mailbox.

The deadline is May 5. Questions: Email amoore@westportct.gov.

One of the Bedford Middle School 7th grade pieces of writing and art, for students in Lyman.

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Parks & Recreation director Jen Fava reports that Hook’d — the Compo Beach concession stand — will open April 28.

From then through the Friday before Memorial Day, it will operate from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

From the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, hours will be weekdays, 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; weekends and holidays, 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Hours of operation from the Tuesday after Labor Day through October 1 are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; from October 2 to October 15, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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Yesterday, Old Mill Grocery & Deli was named as one of 10 Preservation Award honorees, by the Westport Historic District Commission.

Today they added another. The century-old spot at the foot of Compo Hill is one of 7 Award of Merit winners, from Preservation Connecticut. The ceremony is May 4, at the New Haven Country Club.

For more information, click here.

A small group of Westporters marshaled a massive effort to save the building from developers, and open Old Mill Grocery & Deli. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between April 12 and 18.

One arrest followed a January complaint by a customer of First County Bank, alleging someone had cashed a fraudulent check for $2,940 using their identification, after her car had been broken into and her purse stolen.

The bank provided surveillance photos of the suspects, and said the same women were involved in similar incidents at banks in other towns. A suspect was arrested in New Jersey, extradited to Connecticut, and charged with larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, identity theft and conspiracy to commit identity theft. The whereabouts of the other suspect are unknown.

The other arrest came after an officer noticed a vehicle traveling on Post Road East at an extremely slow speed, with flashers activated. He later saw the vehicle in a parking lot. While speaking with the driver, he suspected the use of drugs or alcohol. The driver failed field sobriety test, and was arrested for driving under the influence.

Don’t leave your purse in the car!

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Phases 1 and 2 of the Long Lots Preserve project are completed.

Phases 3 and 4 are underway. And Sustainable CT has offered to match ever dollar donated.

Funding will support the purchase — wholesale — of trees, shrubs, wildflowers and grasses.

They range from $6.50 hyssop wildflowers and $45 viburnum shrubs to $115 pin oaks and $245 grey birch trees.

Plantings will be spaced densely, to out-compete invasives, and maximize habitat and food resources for migrating birds and other wildlife.

Click here for more details, and to donate.

Earlier work at the Long Lots Preserve.

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Tuesday was Yom HaShoah, the Day of Remembrance of the horrific deaths of more than 11 million people –including 6 million Jews — during the Holocaust.

A town-wide memorial service was held Monday night at the Conservative Synagogue. Over 200 attendees heard readings by students, followed by a memorial candle lighting and Holocaust prayer led by Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn, to remember those who were lost.

The evening included a video discussion with Bill Sperber of Detroit and Albert Hersh of Cleveland. They were imprisoned at Auschwitz at the same time, but had never met previously.

They described life in the concentration camp, their release and journey to the United States, and their lives since. It was an emotional and inspiring evening for Westporters — and, 77 years later, for Bill and Albert.

Click below for the video: “Two Survivors, One Conversation.” (Hat tip: Dick Kalt)

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The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston took a field trip this week to the Wilton Library.

Michael Bellarosa, curator of its Dave Brubeck Collection, provided a tour of the largest collection of artifacts dedicated to the memory of the legendary jazz pianist and composer, a long-time resident of Weston and Wilton until his death in 2012 at 91.

Michael Bellarosa, Brubeck Collection curator.

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Scott Haimes — the CEO and artistic director of New York’s Roundabout Theater, who helped rescue it from bankruptcy and become one of America’s largest nonprofit theaters, died on yesterday. He was 66, and had lived with cancer for over 20 years.

Earlier in his career, Haimes was managing director of the Westport Country Playhouse. Click here for a full obituary.

Todd Haimes (Photo courtesy of the NY Times)

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The grounded boat wasn’t the only unwanted visitor at Compo yesterday.

Check out these “guests,” in today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

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And finally … yesterday’s action at the Compo Beach jetty brings to mind:

(One more Roundup, once again jam-packed with stuff. Please click here to support this daily “06880” feature. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, History, Local business, Local politics, Police, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Fox News, Teardowns, THC …

Posted on April 19, 2023 | 14 comments

Yesterday’s historic $787.5 million settlement by Fox News in its defamation lawsuit was huge news, all over the country. (Except on Fox).

And a big part of that news was due to the work of Dominion Voting Systems’ co-lead attorney, Stephen Shackelford.

The Harvard Law School graduate and former Justice Stephen Breyer’s clerk’s already high reputation in the legal community has skyrocketed.

But in Westport we know him, his wife Stefanie and 4 kids as our neighbors. And in District 8, residents know him as their RTM representative.

On behalf of American democracy: Thank you, Steve!

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Yesterday’s “06880” Roundup included 2 homes that fell to the wrecking ball. One was on Roseville Road; the other on South Compo.

Today, Carl Addison Swanson sends a photo of one that has been lovingly restored.

39 Cross Highway — just west of Weston Road — is a house we all pass by often. After years of neglect, it’s gotten a ton of TLC. Today, it looks great.

Known as the Charles Chapman House, this is one of 10 homes that will be honored by 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Westport’s Historic District Commission on May 4 (7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium). It’s one of 4 earning a Preservation Award.

Old Mill Grocery & Deli will receive a Legacy Business Prevention citation. A year ago, a small group of neighbors organized an effort to save the former Elvira’s/Joey’s by the Shore market from probable sale to a develop.

Old Mill Grocery & Deli. (Photo/Matt Murray)

Green’s Farms Church will be cited too, for its extensive renovation.

Green’s Farms Church (Photo/Bob Weingarten)

The other 7 Historic District Commission honorees:

• 35 Post Road West –Davis Taylor House – Preservation
• 276 Main Street – Patrick Rice House – Helen Muller Preservation Award
• 8 Mayflower Parkway – Preservation
• 19 Soundview Drive – Stevens Cottage – Preservation
• 161 Cross Highway – Legacy Business Preservation
• 163 Cross Highway – Excellence in Ongoing Care and Maintenance
• 21 Danbury Avenue – Preservation

19 Soundview Drive – before (left) and after.

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Last week, the Westport Police Department conducted unannounced compliance inspections of 12 establishments that sell tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes.

All 12 were found “compliant” with laws regarding sales to anyone under 21.

However, WP Convenience at 1761 Post Road East — in the Westfair Shopping Center, opposite Stop & Shop — was found to have “a large number of illegal vape and THC products for sale,” police say.

“Many of these items did not display the required QR codes and/or were packaged to look like candy. These colorful packages resemble popular candy and snack foods, but their contents often contain high doses of THC, which can cause marijuana toxicity, especially in unsuspecting children.”

Police confiscated the items, along with “a number of canisters of suspected marijuana.” WP Convenience does not have a dispensary license.

Police note: “Westport zoning regulation prohibits all sales of retail (non-medical) cannabis products, including Delta-9 THC and Delta-8.”

Besides WP Convenience, the 12 retailers found compliant with laws about selling tobacco and e-cigarettes to anyone under 21:

  • Merritt Country Store – 337 Main Street
  • Country Deli Store – 332 Wilton Road
  • Sunoco Food Mart – 240 Riverside Avenue
  • Westport Shell – 322 Post Road East
  • Cumberland Farms – 690 Post Road East
  • Wheels – 786 Post Road East
  • Westport Cigar & Vape – 1248 Post Road East
  • Exxon Tiger Mart – 1510 Post Road East
  • Shell Food Mart – 1530 Post Road East
  • Mohegan Smoke Shop – 1803 Post Road East
  • Mercury – 1830 Post Road East

items sold illegally at WP Convenience. (Photo courtesy of Westport Police Department)

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Savvy Kings Highway Elementary School parents (and nannies and other caregivers) know that there’s a way to beat the afternoon car pickup line, which can stretch along Post Road West almost to Norwalk:

Just park in Nash’s Plaza, the small shopping center between the school and the animal hospital.

Make your kid a “walker.” He or she walks a few yards to your car, and you’re outta there.

That does not sit well with the merchants there, who see their patrons’ parking spots taken up every afternoon by non-patrons.

Which is why this sign has appeared there:

What’s next? Carvana, across the very dangerous street?

It would be nice if kids could, um, take the bus.

But with the current school day, some of them get home around midnight.

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Westport Community Gardens is accepting applications for membership. Limited space is available for new members. It is distributed on a first come, first served basis.

The site, adjacent to Long Lots Elementary School, is a community of people who grow flowers, herbs and vegetables in a sunny, fenced-in (deer-proof) location. Members range age from 5 to 95,

To learn more about the Community Gardens, click here and here. If you’re interested in a plot, click here.

Westport Community Gardens is a true community.

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Here’s a sure sign of spring: the 44th annual Minute Man Race is set for Sunday, April 30.

As usual, Compo Beach will hum with family activity for the Westport Young Woman’s League event. 100% of the net profits benefit charities in Westport and Fairfield County.

Since 1956 — even before the long-running (ho ho) event began — the WYWL has distributed over $4 million in grants.

The main events are certified USA Track and Field runs of 10K and 5K, and a 5K walk.

A Kids Fun Run includes a 50 yard dash (ages 3-5), 100 yard dash (6-7), 1/2 mile run (8-9) and mile run (10-12).

The event also features a Kids Zone with fun activities — and for the first time, food trucks during and after the race.

Click here to register, and for more information.

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The Westport Weston Family YMCA joins in 5 Days of Action (April 24-28), a campaign that equips and empowers organizations to protect children from sexual abuse.

The Y encourages all adults and organizations to help make the community a safer place. For more information and resources, click here.

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There were smiles all around yesterday, as the Westport Rotary Club received the Charles Pettengill Award as “The Best Club in Rotary District 7980.” For non-Rotarians, that’s the 4 coastal counties of Connecticut — 57 clubs in all.

The award recognizes excellence in all 5 areas of service: community, international, youth, vocational and club.

The last 3 COVID years were difficult on all community organizations, but Westport Rotary responded creatively. They held LobsterFest virtually in 2020 — and raised a record amount. The 2021 and ’22 LobsterFests built on that.

More than $250,000 will be distributed to local, regional and international projects from LobsterFest 2022.

So make plans for LobsterFest ’23. Save the date: September 23. Tickets go on sale in July.

From left: Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore present the “Best Rotary Club” citation to Westport Rotary Club president Karl Merganthaller and past president Leslie Robert.

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Sprite Island — looking west from Canal Road on Saugatuck Shores — is the misty subject of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Nancy Axthelm)

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And finally … thanks again, Steve Shackelford:

(Another day with tons of Westport-related news, all covered by “06880.” Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Local business, Politics, Real estate

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Pic Of The Day #2192

Posted on April 18, 2023 | 2 comments

Post Road log pile (Photo/Molly Alger)

2 Comments

Posted in Environment, Pic of the Day

Tagged