Category Archives: Library

Roundup: Chimney Removal, Banned Books Meeting Moved, New Cops …

Posted on April 1, 2023 | 37 comments

Over a week past its March 23 deadline — but finally — the illegal chimney has been removed from the long-dormant new home construction at 233 Hillspoint Road.

Work at the house — formerly the site of Positano restaurant — was halted in 2019. More than 3 years of legal wrangling ensued.

The cupola was also ordered removed, by the Blight Prevention Board.

It’s still standing.

The chimney is gone, from the left side of 233 Hillspoint Road. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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The site for Monday’s schools superintendent’s ad hoc committee discussion of a resident’s complaint about material displayed in the Staples High School library has been changed. The new site is the Town Hall auditorium. The date (April 3) and time (3:30 p.m.) remain the same.

This is a follow-up to last week’s session, part of a 9-step process after Tara McLaughin sought the removal of 3 LGBTQ-themed books from the Staples collection.

Public comment will not be allowed Monday. It may be permitted at a later meeting.

Tara McLaughlin is seeking the removal of 3 books from the Staples High School library.

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Over 400 people packed the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum last night, for a VersoFest feature concert.

The Smithereens — and special guest Marshall Crenshaw — rocked the room. With 3 Top 10 hits — including “A Girl Like You” — the group remains a huge draw.

The Smithereens.(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

VersoFest continues today and tomorrow, with a lineup of workshops, a vinyl swap, a 1:4-scale version of the Grateful Dead’s “Wall of Sound,” and much more.

Highlights today (Saturday) include a keynote address by Steve Lillywhite. The legendary producer of othe Rolling Stones, Peter Gabriel, U2, the Dave Matthews Band and Phish chats with Chris Frantz, co-founder of both Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club at 1 p.m.

Tonight (7 p.m.), Psychedelic Furs front man Richard Butler delivers the Malloy Lecture in the Arts.

Click here for today and tomorrow’s full VersoFest schedule.

Marshall Crenshaw warms up backstage. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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Three new officers joined the Westport Police Department yesterday.

Ashley Calvao (age 26) comes from Monroe. A graduate of Shelton High School, she completed coursework at Housatonic Community College. She has family ties to both Westport and law enforcement.

In her previous position at Bridgeport’s Emergency Communications Center, she worked as a 911 emergency dispatcher for both police and fire.

Sean Fitzpatrick (30) lives in Stratford with his wife Taylor. He is a graduate of Housatonic Community College and American Military University. Sean holds the rank of E5 sergeant for the Coast Guard.

Tyler Mingo (30) is a lifelong resident of Norwalk, where he lives with his wife Taylor and children. He completed course work at Norwalk Community College.  Tyler is a volunteer firefighter in Darien, and spent the last 7 years with Westport’s Highway Department.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas flank (from left) Officers Mingo, Calvao and Fitzpatrick.

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No fooling: As of today (April 1), dogs are banned from Westport beaches.

Yesterday, Bentley enjoyed his final romp at Burying Hill Beach. The Weimaraner met many new friends there, and ran on the new jetty.

He looks forward to October 1, when he’ll be allowed back.

(Photo/Kat Palmer)

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Meanwhile, grooming work continues at local beaches.

A lot of sand is being moved. It will all be de-rocked and smoothed soon, in time for opening next month.

June Rose Whittaker, with a temporary mountain of sand at Compo Beach.

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Also seen at Compo:

Congratulations to Perseid — winner of the race to be the first boat of the season, at Ned Dimes Marina:

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Johanna Keyser Rossi zoomed in on the Fresh Market osprey this week.

When she got home, she noticed her photo included a scarf that the raptor had brought to her nest.

Hey: It gets cold up there at night!

The osprey’s gray scarf is on the right. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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Want to see a Westport Country Playhouse show for free?

The theater needs ushers to scan tickets, distribute programs, answer questions and direct patrons to seats.

Volunteer ushers must be over 18, unless accompanied by a guardian who works with them. They must be patient, courteous, friendly, helpful — and able to read small print in low light.

For more information, email Kelly Richards Mikolasy, house manager: krichards@westportplayhouse.org, or call 203-571-1296.

The seats are empty. But soon, ushers will be needed to direct patrons to seats.

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Three years ago, Westporter Carly Ridloff combined 2 interests. She created the Exchange Project — a “sustainable shopping event” where people can reduce their carbon footprint by exchanging clothing.

She launched it from her home. The most recent one took place here Thursday.

The movement has grown to several other areas, including New York and Florida. The first kids’ edition launches in Boca Raton this month.

Click here for more information. Follow on Instagram: @the.exchanageproject.

Exchange Project founder Carly Ridloff (right) and event co-chair Kate Freeman.

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Last week’s “06880” story about Harry Houdini and a movie of his 1917 escape from a crate in the water off Longshore made its way to Vermont.

Charles Greene III saw it, and writes:

“I’ve written a book about a female magician/illusionist from 1910 who became a princess. Her son, Frank Tchitcherine, became involved in espionage for the British and Americans. He retired to Westport.

“I’ve spoken to a person who met him. He was quite the character.

“Frank and his mother (a princess) have a connection to the Westport Library.  Several years ago, the library had documents from her time in Russia (1914 – 1918). They wound up being sold by a Westport resident through a map gallery in New York.

“Frank died in Westport in 1978.”

“06880” readers: If you remember Frank Tchitcherine (or his mother’s document), click “Comments” and add details.

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Longtime Bedford and Staples teacher Donald DiGennaro died peacefully last Sunday, at the Watermark. He was age 86.

The Bridgeport native — a longtime resident of Trumbull — taught science in Westport for virtually his entire career.

He was an avid gardener and cook, with a love for Italy and Italian food, and greatly devoted to his family.

Don was predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Theresa; son Leonard, and brothers Philip and Anthony.

He is survived by his children Philip (Dana Maiocco), Donna Pavitt (David); grandchildren Philip DiGennaro (Sarah), Michael DiGennaro (Kristyn), James DiGennaro, Joseph DiGennaro and Emly Pavitt; great-grandson Donovan DiGennaro, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held privately. To leave an online condolence, click here.

Don DiGennaro

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We usually see deer alone, or in groups of 2 or 3.

But 9 live in or near Bob Weingarten’s Greens Farms back yard.

Here’s fewer than half of them, relaxing for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Hey, at least they’re not destroying his garden.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … happy April 1!

 

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Obituaries, Police, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Amy Scarella, Staples Books Complaint, Historic District …

Posted on March 31, 2023 | 8 comments

Amy Scarella is a 1994 Staples High School graduate. Many Westporters know her as the passionate power behind Little Black Dog Rescue.

She was the woman driving around town with an SUV full of howling canines. She fundraised tirelessly to rescue dogs from kill shelters (usually down South), transport them to Connecticut, and address each dog’s many health problems. Then she matched each dog to a loving family. It’s estimated she and her team have saved over 1,000 animals.

A former teacher in the Bronx, Amy also tutored kids.

Her longtime friend Meghan Bell calls her “the friend who showed up at my house to watch my newborn twins so I could take a shower and a nap. And the friend who drove in a snowstorm to Westchester County Medical Center to pick me up when my father had a stroke and I couldn’t put a sentence together, let alone navigate I-95 in the snow.”

Amy moved to Charleston, South Carolina a few years ago to be closer to her family. Recently, she was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor. Due to its size and location, there was no more room to grow. She needed immediate surgery.

A GoFundMe page has been set up by her friends, to help with medical and rehabilitation expenses. Anyone who knows Amy’s Little Black Dog Rescue work — and those who don’t, but wishes they did — is invited to contribute.

Amy Scarella

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The next step in the handling of a resident’s complaint about material displayed in the Staples High School library is a special meeting on Monday, April 3 (3:30 p.m., Staples library).

An ad hoc committee, appointed by Superintendent of School Thomas Scarice, will follow up on last week’s session. Westport resident Tara McLaughlin seeks the removal of 3 books — sought the removal of “Gender Queer,” “This Book is Gay” and “Flamer” — from the collection.

Monday’s meeting is the next, in a 9-step process. The committee will discuss previous hearings, and “develop an evaluative judgment and recommendation for consideration by the Superintendent of Schools.”

Public comment will not be allowed. It may be permitted at a later meeting.

The 3 books challenged by parent Tara McLaughlin.

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Want input into Westport’s Historic Preservation Plan?

The Historic District Commission is conducting a survey, to guide them as they adopt one. The goal is to “establish a long-term vision for historic preservation in the community, and create a set of achievable goals and strategies for strengthening the town’s historic preservation program.”

Click here for the survey. To learn more about the Historic District Commission, click here.

This sign on Jesup Road is looking a bit historic.(Photo/Morley Boyd)

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Speaking of the Historic District Commission:

The agenda for their April 11 Zoom meeting includes 6 homes “to take such action as the meeting may determine to oppose the issuance of the demolition permit … and require the full 180-day delay.”

Among those on the chopping block: 45 Compo Beach Road.

Located across from Ned Dimes Marina, on the way to the beach entrance and just north of Roosevelt Road, it’s one of the most recognizable houses in town:

The yellow house at 45 Compo Beach Road.

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Eleven Westport organizations have received arts grants. They come from 3 state sources: General Operation Support, the Connecticut Arts Endowment, and Supporting Arts.

Westport’s total of $183,647 is distributed this way:

American Chamber Orchestra – $5,764
Beechwood Arts, Inc. – $10,000
Fairfield County Chorale  – $12,987
JIB Productions (Play With Your Food) –  $2,371
Levitt Pavilion, Friends of Westport – $54,909
MoCA Westport, Inc. – $60,782
Music for Youth Westport – $5,954
Suzuki Music School of Westport & Orange – $3,128
Westport Community Theatre – $9,417
Westport Country Playhouse –  $12,959
Westport School of Music –  $5,376.

MoCA Westport is one of 11 local organizations to receive state arts grants.

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Check out this photo:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

What is it?

You’ll find it in the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum, now through Sunday. It’s part of Verso Fest — the 2nd annual music-and-media festival.

It’s a 1:4 scale model of the Grateful Dead’s Wall of Sound. It was created by former Westonite Anthony Coscia.

The “wall” is on display, and will crank tunes (intermittently) throughout VersoFest. There’s even a class about it (and PA systems): tomorrow (Saturday, April 1, 11 a.m.), open to all.

The aim of Coscia’s project is to preserve The Wall’s place in history, and allow people to hear, see, and feel what few were able to experience.

The model features over 500 functioning speakers divided into 8 channels, producing 100 decibels with little to no distortion.

VersoFest kicked off last night, with a concert by Sunflower Bean. A crowd of over 200 people enjoyed the show.

Sunflower Bean, last night at the Westport Library’s VersoFest. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

Tonight it’s the (sold-out) Smithereens. Saturday includes panels with Steve Lillywhite and Richard Butler. Among Sunday’s highlights: a vinyl swap, and the documentary “Live from the Astroturf.”

For a schedule and full details of concerts, workshops and more, click here. All concerts are co-produced by the Library and Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

Sunflower Bean backstage at VersoFest, flanked byTalking Head and Tom Tom Club’s Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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Matthew Balga — the Whelk chef killed by a car earlier this month, while walking across Riverside Avenue after work — will be remembered on Sunday.

CT Urbanists — a safe streets advocacy group — will place a pair of “ghost shoes” at the site where he was struck.

A group will walk from the Westport train station at 11:30 a.m. to the site. All are welcome.

Similar ceremonies will honor 3 other pedestrians killed this month, in Greenwich, New Haven and Cheshire.

For more information, email jcproctor@gmail.com.

Chef Matthew Balga

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Aspetuck’s next “Lunch and Learn” webinar is all about nighttime.

“Working the Night Shift: Pollination Happens after Dark Too!” (Wednesday, April 5, noon to 1 p.m.) explores how moths, flies, beetles and other dusk and after-dark pollinators play important roles pollinating wild and managed plants, along with the ecology, diversity and importance of these hidden pollinators, and how to support them.

The presenter is Emily May (pollinator conservation specialist, and agricultural lead with the Xerces Society’s Pesticide Program). Click here for more information, and to register.

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This intriguing photo was recently found in an old barn — used for storage by many families — on Bayberry Lane.

Lloyd and Stacy Stableford think the girl (now woman) in the photo might like to have it back. If you know who she is, email sstableford@gmail.com

President Carter, with an unidentified girl.

Also found: something (possibly valuable), with a dedication. The recipient was “Gramp” referred to as “Tia’s 3rd husband”), who had been an attorney and judge in the early and mid 20th century. It hung in his law office and courtroom until he retired in 1961.

The item was embroidered in Japan in 1914 or 1915, and presented around 1920 by a Lt. Cmdr. R.S. Skelton, whose name appears in the 1883 Congressional Record.

The Stablefords’ research did not yield much. If you know anything more about “Gramp,” email sstableford@gmail.com.

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Seen on social media:

“I am absolutely heartbroken over the loss of an Orvis Recon Fly & Reel. It was my personal favorite and a gift from my wife.

It was accidently left on the right-side parking shoulder nearest the water of Ford Road in Westport Wednesday, between 2 and 6 p.m. Reward given to the kind soul who locates and returns it. Please call Mark at 475-731-7400.”

Let’s hope Mark gets his fly and reel back.

And that his wife doesn’t see this. (Hat tip: Mary Beth Murray)

Orvis Recon

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It’s not Westport, but close enough:

With 136 new apartments planned for the Route 1 border in Norwalk — including Renzulli Road becoming a cul-de-sac, and the demolition of 7 houses, plus several businesses — decades-old Sanitary Cleaners is closing next month.

The final day to accept clothing is tomorrow. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)

Sanitary Cleaners

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George Billis Gallery recently moved from Westport to Fairfield.

Their original New York location — 527 West 23rd Street — is still open.

That’s where Westport artist Sherri Wolfgang has her next exhibit.

The opening reception is Saturday, April 8 (4 to 7 p.m.). The show runs from April 4-29 (Tuesdays through Saturdays, noon to 6 p.m.). For more information, call 917-273-8621.

Art by Sherri Wolfgang

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Beginning tomorrow, dogs will begin their 6-month ban from Compo Beach.

That includes Lola — who lives on Soundview Drive, just yards from the shore.

She prepared for her new life by watching workers smooth the sand.

And by posing for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … if you want to weigh in on the Historic District Commission’s Preservation Plan (story above), do not listen to the first lines of this song (or watch the images):

(Don’t know much about Westport? Read “06880.” Learn. And then support our work. Please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Library, Local business, Local politics, Sports, Staples HS, Totally random

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Songwriting, Screenwriting Workshops Featured At VersoFest

Posted on March 25, 2023 | 1 comment

Starting Thursday, VersoFest will draw music and arts lovers from around the region.

But some featured presenters will come from much further.

Longtime collaborators Amilia K Spicer and Edward Romero are flying in from California.

Amilia — a singer-songwriter — opens for the Smithereens on Friday (March 31, 7 p.m.), the second day of the 4-day music, media and more Westport Library event.

On Saturday (April 1, 3 p.m.) she leads a master class in songwriting.

Amilia K Spicer

Veteran screenwriter Romero offers a master class in that subject on Saturday, starting at 2 p.m.

Romero has known Library executive director Bill Harmer since high school, and then at Eastern Michigan University. Over the years they’ve shared music videos and news.

When Harmer asked Romero if he’d be interested in VersoFest, the writer suggested Spicer too. He’s been a fan of her Americana/blues/country music ever since hearing her play in an L.A. bar.

Edward Romero

Spicer’s songwriting workshop will focus on “empowering people to find their own voice,” she says. She found hers by “thinking cinematically, in images.”

Romero’s approach is more “nuts and bolts,” he says. He will show members of his workshop how to approach a script with a set of practical tools. He welcomes anyone who “wants to write, is struggling with what they’ve written, or haven’t yet cracked the (industry) code.”

Both look forward to VersoFest.

“I love events that feel grassroots,” Spicer says, “and towns that support the arts.”

“I know how proud Bill is of his library facility,” Romero adds. “It’s so cool what goes on there.”

A lot more will go on starting Thursday, of course. Click here for the full VersoFest schedule of concerts, workshops, panels, a vinyl fair and more.

(From Verso Fest and the Levitt Pavilion to Westport musicians and school concerts, “06880” keeps you up on local entertainment news. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Library

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Roundup: Linxweiler Trees, Races & Champions, Ukrainian Eggs …

Posted on March 24, 2023 | 9 comments

The Post Road East improvement project has begun.

The first step — long before installing turn lanes, crosswalks, shoulders and sidewalks on the stretch between Volvo of Westport and New Country Toyota — was the removal of a dozen or so trees.

They stood for decades in front of Linxweiler House — the former blacksmith shop between Fresh Market and McDonald’s, now owned and operate by Homes with Hope.

That property looks a lot different today, than it did last weekend:

Linxweiler House, as seen from Crescent Road …

… and looking east, from near Fresh Market. (Photos/Molly Alger)

The good news: The 2 cherry blossom trees in front of Sakura still stand.

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On your mark … get set … and get ready for the 44th annual Minute Man Races

The popular Westport Young Woman’s League — set for Sunday, April 30 at Compo Beach — includes a 10K run, 5K run/walk, and kids’ fun runs (from 50 yards to 1 mile).

For professionals, it’s a USA Track and Field-certified event. For kids, family-friendly activities will take place during and after the races.

As always, there will be music, food trucks and more.

Student and first responder discounts are offered for the adult races. Contact minuteman@wywl.com for a discount code. Click here to register, and for more information. Proceeds benefit local non-profits.

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Registration is open for the 5th annual Day of Champions.

The event — family-friendly fun (and fierce competition) that raises funds for Experience Camps, the Westport-based network of activities for children who have lost parents or siblings — is May 21 (8:30 to 11:30 a.m., PJ Romano Field).

To create or join a team — or donate — click here.

To get psyched for the event, click the video below.

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Ukrainian Easter Sunday is not until April 16.

But Westport artist Mark Yurkiw — who has Ukrainian heritage, and is a member of the group that raised $252,000 for our sister city, Lyman — is celebrating early.

Throughout his career, he’s been decorating Ukrainian Easter eggs. He sent “06880” a sample of his work:

The red egg in front celebrates the birth of Mark Yurkiw’s son Cooper, in 1994.

In 2001, he created this 5-foot “egg” for the White House.

It was signed by 256 members of Congress.

Slava Ukraini!

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More progress on the house at 233 Hillspoint Road. Town officials halted construction there in 2019, after finding violations of the building permit.

Workers yesterday removed several feet from the top of the chimney. It had been built higher than its legal height.

Workers removing the top of the chimney at 233 Hillspoint. Road. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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In 2020, COVID forced Saugatuck Elementary School to cancel “The Little Mermaid” at the final dress rehearsal —  before the opening curtain.

She’s back!

A new cast of 125 students in grades 3-5 act, sing and dance — and run the lights and sound, help construct and decorate sets and props, and operate special effects.

Saugatuck alums from 2020 (and even some of their parents) have helped with the show! Set designer Julie Colotti, costume designer Miriam Young, and prop managers Alexandra Dodwell and Amy Kopisz incorporated many original pieces, along with new additions.

After his daughter Phoebe returned as a student acting coach, John Nunziato jumped in as artistic designer and special effects consultant.

Shows are Friday, March 31 (7 p.m.) and Saturday, April 1 (1 and 6:30 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.

“The Little Mermaid,” at Saugatuck Elementary School. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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You can’t autograph an Mp3 download.

But you sure can sign a vinyl album.

VersoFest’s headliners and guests, including producer Steve Lillywhite, Psychedelic Furs front man Richard Butler, and Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club drummer Chris Frantz and bassist Tina Weymouth, will autograph copies of their records, for giveaways and auction items during next weekend’s VersoFest.

Festivalgoers can submit their entries for the giveaway starting with the March 30 kickoff concert featuring rising American rock band Sunflower Bean.

Submissions are open through Sunday, April 2. That final day features a record fair (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and a vinyl record panel brunch with WPKN DJ Alec Cumming, producer Dooley-O, Kraftjerkz Records’ Kid Ginseng, WFUV DJ and House of Wax host Eric Holland, New Haven Independent arts reporter Karen Ponzio, and moderated by the Zambonis’ Dave Schneider.

The silent auction (April 1-2) offers a chance to bid on a variety of signed albums associated with the festival’s speakers and guests. All proceeds support future VersoFests.

For more information, including concert tickets and workshops registration, click here.

VersoFest vinyl.

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Speaking of music: The Grammy for Best Children’s Album went to Kaitlin McGaw, and her group Alphabet Rockers. (Sure, it was in February. But I just found out. It’s still worth sharing!)

And it’s “06880”-worthy because she’s the granddaughter of longtime Westporters Ed and Kay See.

Ed — an attorney — was longtime town counsel. He played a key role in Westport’s purchase of Longshore, in 1959.

Kay supported many local causes. She was on the Westport Library board, when the new building was built.

The See family’s stained glass window hangs over the altar of Assumption Church, near the Josê Feliciano window.

Eloise See — Ed and Kay’s daughter — is Kaitlin’s proud mother. Sandy is her equally proud uncle.

The award was even more special, because the presenter was presidential inaugural poet — and Kaitlin’s fellow Harvard graduate — Amanda Gorman.

Alphabet Rockers produces and performs music and dance that promotes racial and gender awareness.

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The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport is a beautiful building.

On April 1 (8 p.m.), its the site too of Damn Tall Buildings.

That’s the hot bluegrass/indie/roots/old-time/vintage swing/Americana band from Brooklyn. The trio will headline the UU’s Voices Café.

There’s table or individual seating. Bring your own beverages and snacks, or buy at the sweet treats table. General admission: $25 per person. A portion of the proceeds support the congregation’s Social Justice Council. Click here for tickets (live and livestream), and more information.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo proves: There’s nothing like a nice early spring day to put the top down, and enjoy the sun.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … on this date in 1721, – Johann Sebastian Bach dedicated 6 concertos to Margrave Christian Ludwig of Brandenburg-Schwedt. Today we know them as the Brandenburg Concertos.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We’re a non-profit, dedicated to bringing the community together. We rely on your (tax-deductible) contributions. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Library, Real estate, Transportation

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Staples Students Have IDEA For Inclusion

Posted on March 21, 2023 | 11 comments

When Leigh Foran moved from New York City to Westport, Long Lots Elementary School classmates asked, “What are you?” Others made fun of the food she ate.

At Bedford Middle School, a girl wore a shirt with Japanese writing. “Ask Leigh what it means,” someone suggested.

“I don’t speak Japanese,” she says. “I’m half Korean, and half Irish.”

Lindsey Price had a different experience with differences. At a Westport “Stop Asian Hate” rally in 2021, a friend’s brother spoke about the racism he faced.

“I had no idea how Westport kids are treating other kids,” Lindsey says. “I was naive.”

Despite their differing backgrounds, Leigh and Lindsey — both Staples High School juniors — have a common goal. They want to teach children, from a young age, about the importance of inclusivity, particularly with peers who might not look like them.

So they started the Inclusion and Diversity through Education and Awareness (IDEA) club at Staples.

“It’s a natural instinct as kids to be rough around the edges,” Leigh notes. We teach them to embrace diversity. It’s great to have different foods and holidays.”

“Differences are good things, not bad,” Lindsey adds. “We want to make all kids feel welcome, and be friends.”

Working first with teachers Rebecca Marsick and Alexis Aaeng, and now social studies instructor Elizabeth McVaney, the girls researched and created lesson plans. They came up with a variety of themes, including inclusion, respect, empathy, diversity, holidays, families and activities.

They approached Westport Library youth services director Mary Parmelee. she was excited, and arranged for monthly sessions in the children’s library. Leigh and Lindsey read aloud, and do activities like drawing and crafts with the youngsters.

Reading to children at the Westport Library (from left): Ava Cordella, Leigh Foran and Lindsey Price.

The lesson on food was instructive. The girls asked the children to draw their favorites. Everyone had something unique — showing that even with people who may look similar, there are differences.

With several other IDEA Club members, they’ve also done programs with the Westport Weston Cooperative Nursery School.

A youngster draws different kinds of people.

Parmelee and parents have been pleased, Lindsey and Leigh say.

For the founders, “it’s so sweet to see kids come out of their shell as the lesson goes on. There really are personal connections.”

The next Westport Library session is Saturday, April 22 (11 to 11:30 a.m.; click here for details).

Westport Library children’s section book display on diversity and inclusion, with the IDEA Club logo.

Meanwhile, Leigh, Lindsey and other club members are creating more lesson plans, and looking for more preschools to work with.

What a great IDEA!

(For more information, email leighmforan@gmail.com)

(“06880″ includes every aspect of our community. If you like what we do, please consider a contribution. Click here — and thank you.)

 

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Posted in Children, Library, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Roundup: Lynda Bluestein, Jewish Composers, Church Organ …

Posted on March 16, 2023 | 2 comments

Lynda Bluestein is a longtime and very active member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport.

She has terminal fallopian tube cancer. At 75 years old, time is short. But on Tuesday she received peace-of-mind news.

She reached a settlement with the state of Vermont. She will be the first non-resident to take advantage of a law that allows people with terminal illnesses to end their own lives.

Ten states allow medically assisted suicide. Until now though, only Oregon permitted non-residents to do it. Click here to read about Lynda’s successful legal battle, and what it means for her and others.

Lynda Bluestein and her husband Paul. (Photo courtesy of NBC Connecticut)

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The Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand series of play readings is enormously popular.

A new spinoff — the “Mic in Hand” music series — should be too.

The first event is Ari Axelrod’s “A Place for Us: A Celebration of Jewish Broadway.”

The award-winning show honors the songs and stories of Jewish composers, and their contributions to the American musical.

The Playhouse says: “Beloved melodies and lyrics by the likes of Irving Berlin, Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Schwartz and Carole King will transport you to the streets of the theater district, your bubbie’s Shabbos table, or your corner of the sky.”

The kickoff is May 15 (7 p.m.). All tickets are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Irving Berlin: One of Broadway’s greatest Jewish composer.

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Rick Tripodi was the beloved music director and organist at Green’s Farms Congregational Church.

That organ was close to Rick’s heart. As a teenager in 1965, he attended its  dedication.

Classically trained, with a master’s degree in organ performance from Juilliard, Rick designed the refurbishment of the Peragallo/Walker organ during the church’s recent renovation project.

Sadly, he died just 2 days before the instrument was reinstalled.

A memorial concert on Sunday, March 26 (4 p.m.) features David Enlow on the organ, and a 16-voice professional choir. They’ll perform Duruflé’s Requiem — a piece Rick requested a few days before he died.

The concert will be livestreamed, then uploaded to the church’s YouTube channel.

Click below to see the organ’s dedication. The video begins at the 9:00 mark.

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Leave the car at home
Leave the driving all to us
Door to door service

How’s that for a haiku? (It’s by Diane Lowman, Westport’s first poet laureate.)

Wheels2U Westport — the Westport Transit District’s on-demand, group ride, door to train platform shuttle service — is launching its 2nd annual poetry contest. The goal is to promote its Wheels2U commuter shuttle.

This year’s contest features haiku (last year’s was limericks).

The form originated in Japan. They’re unrhymed poems consisting of 17 syllables, in 3 lines of 5, 7, and 5 syllables respectively.

Gift certificates to Westport restaurants of their choice will be given to the top 7 entries. First prize is $100 gift certificate; 2 second prizes winners are $50 each; 4 third prize winners receive $25 gift certificates.

Wheels2U for you
We ferry you to the train
Worries left behind
(Diane Lowman)

Westport residents and commuters to here can use the Wheels2U Westport app to request a pickup between 5:45 and 10 a.m., and 4 and 9:30 p.m. They’ll be taken to or from the Saugatuck or Greens Farms train platform and their front door, anywhere in Westport.

Pickups should be requested 20 minutes before you would normally leave to drive to the station. The fare is $2 when paid with the Wheels2U app.

The bus to the train
Take Wheels2U for the ride
Easy, no hassle.

For more information about Wheels2U, click here. For more information about the Westport Transit District’s services for the elderly and people with disabilities, click here.

The haiku contest deadline is March 27. Entries (as many as you like) should be sent to pgold@westportct.gov, and must include your name and address. Click here for the official rules.

Wheels2U.

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Staples High School’s March Students of the Month are seniors Matthew Saw and Shanti Wimmer, juniors Juan Nieves and Isabella Rivel, sophomores Lily Hultgren and Aidan Zer, and freshmen Peter Cordts and Charlie Curran.

The program recognizes “students who help make Staples a welcoming place for peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the community: the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students who keep the high school together.” Nominations come from teachers.

March Students of the Month (from left): Lily Hultgren, Isabella Rivel, Matthew Saw, Charlie Curran, Peter Cordts. Missing: Shanti Wimmer and Aiden Zer

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Last weekend, the Westport Weston Family YMCA 4th grade boys travel finished 2nd in the 15th annual Connecticut Hoopfest tournament (Platinum Division) in Milford. Congrats to the young stars!

Westport Weston Family YMCA 4th grade travel basketball team.

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VersoFest 2023 is a music festival — and much more.

All day long on the weekend of April 1-2, experts and educators will offer 1-hour-workshops for creative and curious attendees.

They include:

TeachRock, Wall of Sound class (April 1, 11 a.m.): The Grateful Dead’s Wall of Sound was the first large-scale line array used in modern sound reinforcement systems. TeachRock’s Bill Carbone and Gina Machado explore: What is a PA system? How does it work? And why should we thank the tinkering scientists of the Dead entourage for much of how we experience live music today?

The workshop will use Anthony Coscia’s scale model replica of the “Wall of Sound” that will be on display (and cranking tunes) throughout VersoFest.

Master class workshop & Rock Photography panel (April 1, 11:30 a.m.): Katie Settel is known for her evocative performance images as the Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater’s photographer. Settel takes workshop participants through her journey, influences, and techniques.

Screenwriting master class (April 1, 2 p.m.): An overview of screenplay structure, focusing on the 90-page feature film script.
Songwriting Master Class

Songwriting master class (April 1, 3 p.m.): Whether you are a performing songwriter or just want to learn how to start a song, you can find your voice and turn your story into a musical moment. TV/Media Production Master Class

TV/Media Production master class (April 2, 11 a.m.): Producer/director Annette Jolles teach this master class, with Verso Studios crew call members. She has earned 17 Emmy Awards, and was the first female director for “Live from Lincoln Center.”

Click here, then scroll down for full details, including more events and registration information.

Anthony Coscis with his Wall of Sound.

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Upcoming at Earthplace:

“A Toast to the Trees” (Arbor Day weekend: April 29). Both beer tasting and kids’ activities! “Tasting on the Trails” offers staggered entry (no snarky joke, sorry) between 4 and 5:30 p.m; the beer garden and food trucks are available from 4 to 7 p.m. Also included: lawn games, a campfire and s’mores. Tickets are $35 for adults, $15 for those under 21. Click here to purchase.

A “Cocktails & Clams” sunset evening on the Sound fundraiser for Harbor Watch — an Earthplace program — is set for Saturday, June 10 (5 to 7 p.m.). It’s dockside at Copps Island Oyster on Norwalk Harbor, with an unlimited raw bar, hors d’oeuvres, open bar, live band and silent auction. Tickets will be available next month.

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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between March 8 and 15.

One was for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and failure to drive in the proper lane, following an investigation into an accident on December 18 on Riverside Avenue.

A second was for larceny of food and gift cards, by an employee of Fresh Market.

The third was for failure to respond to an infraction (issued in Derby), following a motor vehicle stop.

The department did not release details of any citations issued.

The store pressed charges following an employee theft.

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Just steps from downtown’s stores, traffic and parking lots, there’s a Saugatuck River scene worthy of the wilds.

Rachel Konstantin took today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, near the Taylortown Salt Marsh.

(Photo/Rachel Konstantin)

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And finally … as noted in the story above, Irving Berlin is one of America’s most famous Jewish composers. He’s known and loved for songs like this:

(From the serious to the sublime to the silly, “06880”‘s daily Roundup brings you news and information you can use. Or skip over. But hey, we’re always available. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Sweetgreen, Y Memories, March Madness …

Posted on March 15, 2023 | Comments Off on Roundup: Sweetgreen, Y Memories, March Madness …

As reported last July on “06880,” Sweetgreen will be opening in Westport.

The salad-and-bowl fast casual restaurant — with over 150 outlets in more than a dozen states — will replace Organic Krush.

Although Sweetgreen representatives went before the Architectural Review Board with plans for their new restaurant in July, Organic Krush protested vociferously that they were not leaving.

But as WestportMoms notes this morning, the Sweetgreen website lists the 374 Post Road East location as “opening soon.”

The WestportMoms post drew over 700 likes, and more than 70 comments. “Love SO much!” one said.

“My prayers have been answered,” added a second.

And this: “Best news ever. My son and I just literally high-fived in the kitchen.”

A few of Sweetgreen’s many salads.

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After 100 years, the Westport Weston Family YMCA knows plenty of folks have lots of memories. And memorabilia.

As part of their century celebration they ask members, former members and everyone else to haul out their photo albums, think back on the past, and share what they find. Click here to submit.

All year long, the Y will feature those photos and stories on their lobby monitor, website and social media, and in email newsletters.

Click here for the dedicated web page. Click below for a sample submission.

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There are many ways to enjoy March Madness.

A great “06880” connection: Dave Briggs.

The media celebrity (Fox News, NBC Sports, CNN) is hosting “March Madness Fast Break” for Turner Sports. It’s noon to midnight, Thursday through Sunday on MarchMadness.com and the March Madness Live app.

Dave calls it “Red Zone for college basketball with the best live action, analysis and social media reaction.” He partners with a pair of legends: Kentucky’s Tony Delk and Wake Forest’s Randolph Childress.

Dave Briggs, ready for all the action.

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Speaking of basketball: Tonight’s state Division II boys semifinal between #7 Staples High School and #3 Fairfield Warde is easy for fans to get to.

The game is at Westhill High in Stamford. Tipoff is 7 p.m.

The winner advances to the Connecticut championship this weekend, at Mohegan Sun.

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The Levitt Pavilion season is still 3 months away. But — to help raise funds for over 50 nights of free entertainment — the riverside outdoor venue has just announced 2 special ticketed events.

Samara Joy — 2023 Grammy Award winner for Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album — takes the stage June 3. Triple Grammy winner Bruce Hornsby follows with the Noisemakers on July 1. Both Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m.

Member pre-sales start today (Wednesday, March 15) at 10 a.m. Public sales start Friday (March 17, 10 a.m.).

Tickets are already on sale for the June 24 show: Michael Franti & Spearhead Big Big Love Tour, with Phillip Phillips.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Representative Town Meeting member Matthew Mandell joins other elected officials this morning (Wednesday, March 15, 10 a.m.; Zoom).

They’ll speak prior to the state General Assembly Planning & Development Committee’s public hearing on HB 6890, the “Live Work Ride” bill that proposes withholding, withdrawing and perhaps clawing back state infrastructure funding from communities that fail to adopt regulations permitting greater density, with limited parking and a prescribed affordability component, around transit areas.

Mandell and his colleagues are part of “CT169Strong.” It’s a statewide non-partisan group “dedicated to local control and oversight, and protecting the unique qualities of Connecticut’s 169 towns.

Click here for a link to Mandell’s meeting. The ID is 455 019 2513; the passcode is 6C436A.

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We missed Pi Day yesterday (3/14 — get it?).

But there’s still a bit of pi left over.

Check out this web site created by our Westport neighbor, Michael Winser.

It calculates the value of the famed mathematical constant to, oh, about a squintillion places, on a scrolling page.

Geek away!

Staples High School math teacher Kevin Cuccaro celebrated Pi Day yesterday, with appropriate food and a t-shirt. (Photo courtesy of Humans of Staples)

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Love the Westport Library? Want to help make it even better?

The Library and Representative Town Meeting are seeking candidates to fill vacancies on the Library board of trustees.

Trustees work closely with the executive director, in areas like funding, policies and planning. They develop long-range plans, monitor the budget and help oversee fundraising. The board meets monthly; there are also committee meetings.

Trustees must be Westport residents. There are 20 members. Half are appointed by the RTM, half by the Library board itself.

More information about the role of trustees is available here.

Applicants should email a resume and letter of interest to rpowell@westportlibrary,org. by April 17, with information on how past work and experience qualify them for consideration as a trustee.

Westport Library. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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How can parents and caregivers support healthy identity development in young children?

Many ways. And you can learn about them at “Supporting Healthy Identity Development in Young Children: Race, Culture and Beyond.” The Westport Library keynote (April 4, 7 to 8:30 p.m.) is led by Takiema Bunche Smith, founder and CEO of Anahsa Consulting and a noted executive leader, advisor, coach and educator.

The session will explore “how adults socialize young children into racial, cultural and other social identities, and what that means in the context of an inequitable US society.”

Click here for more information. The event is sponsored by TEAM Westport.

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Laurie Sorensen took this photo of snow drops a couple of days ago — before yesterday’s way-less-than-fierce “snow storm.”

But the snowy idea works well for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

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Bruce Hornsby is playing and touring now with the Noisemakers (see Levitt Pavilion story above).

But he started his career — and had the biggest hit of his career — with The Range.

That’s just the way it is.

(Whew! There’s a lot going on in Westport. And “06880” covers it all. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Smoke & Neon, Fencing Team, Lash Studio …

Posted on March 14, 2023 | 11 comments

There’s a new smoke shop in town.

Mohegan has moved into the mini-strip mall near Stanton Miles, on Post Road East by the Southport border.

Alert “06880” reader Stacie Curran noticed — particularly, the lights.

(Photo/Stacie Curran)

“I thought neon signs were prohibited in Westport,” she wrote.

I emailed my go-to at Town Hall: Planning & Zoning director Mary Young.

She was out of the office. But zoning official Laurie Montagna replied:

“Yes, we have a regulation that prohibits neon signs. 33-3.14 says, ‘Directly-illuminated gaseous signs, such as neon tube signs, that are visible from outside the building shall be prohibited.’

“Unfortunately, almost all signs installed today that look like neon, are actually LED signs.”

I’m no signage expert (or chemist). But if it looks like a duck …

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Tonight’s kickoff of a 3-part Westport Library series on cardiac health has been postponed, due to anticipated bad weather.

The session on coronary artery diseases planned for this evening (March 14) has been pushed back to March 22. The discussion on valvular heart disease planned for that date will be rescheduled. The atrial fibrillation talk is still set for April 17.

The cardiac series is curated by Andrew Wilk, and led by Dr. Robert Altbaum.

Andrew Wilk’s first session on heart disease will now begin on March 22.

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The Staples High School boys basketball took a huge step toward the state championship last night.

Ranked #7 in the CIAC Division II tournament, the Wreckers upset #2 Holy Cross-Waterbury 61-47, in the upstaters’ gym.

The quarterfinal win vaults the blue-and-whites into the state semis. They’ll meet #3 Fairfield Warde tomorrow (Wednesday, March 15), at a neutral site and time TBD.

The Mustangs defeated the Wreckers 51-44, in their regular season matchup earlier this year.

Staples was led by Chris Zajac and Cody Sale (16 points) each, Sam Clachko (11) and Charlie Honig (10).

The 2023 Staples High School boys basketball team.

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Staples’ boys basketball team has snagged all the headlines this winter.

But the school also fields a fencing team.

And not just any fencing team. A 2-time state champion one.

The Wreckers’ boys foil fencers defended their Connecticut crown last weekend.

And they’re only 2 years old.

In that time they’ve grown from 9 participants to over 20 male and female fencers. Beginners are welcome.

They practice 3 times a week, all year long. They’re coached by Westport resident Delphine DeVore, a world-ranked fencer. She’s a member of the Columbia University fencing team, and volunteers her time to work with Staples.

Club leaders, including founders and co-captains Max Peterbarg, PJ Loranger and Gleb Symonchoy are pursuing full recognition as a team sport. They hope to have enough fencers to field both boys and girls teams next year in foil, epee and saber — at both the varsity and junior varsity levesl.

For more information, check out the Instagram account: @staplesfencing.

From left: Coach Delphine DeVore, and team members Gleb Syomichev, PJ Loranger, Eric Wilson and Max Piterbarg

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Speaking still of sports:

TOPSoccer — a national program for youngsters in grades kindergarten through 8 with physical or learning disabilities — is coming soon.

Together with trained soccer coaches, each player is paired with a volunteer buddy to learn teamwork, soccer skills, and have fun.

Staples High School junior Daisy Fording and Weston High sophomore Cole Johnson are spearheading the effort.

Click here for information and registration. Questions? Email dkfording@gmail.com or Colerobertjohnson@icloud.com.

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Refined Lash Studio on Post Road East — across from Design Within Reach — is closing.

A note to clients from “Miss Vic” says: “It is with great hesitation that this chapter of my life must come to a close. I have decided to move back to the West Coast.

“I want to thank every person who ever booked with me, shared personal stories with me, and those who’ve been with me since the beginning. I hope to remain a part of your life even without a professional relationship.

“I will do my best to accommodate all schedules and send updates of my departure. I don’t have a definitive end date, I just wanted to give as much notice in advance possible.”

Sounds like it’s your “lash chance.”

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Today’s weather forecast forced the postponement of the Connecticut Appalachian Mountain Club’s presentation of “Exploring the Colombian Amazon” with Ida Lowe.

The new date is next Tuesday (March 21, 6:15 p.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church). Appetizers, pasta dinner, salads, drinks and desserts will be served. It’s $10 for members, $15 for non-members. For more information, email easasso7@icloud.com.

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This week’s “What’s Next in Weston” is part 1 of a 2-part program. 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor discusses  her town’s upcoming property revaluation , including how’s done, by whom, and how it leads to the mill rate used going forward.

The podcast (click below to listen) comes courtesy of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Grammy nominee Paul Bollenback headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (March 16, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399).

He’s joined by a hot rhythm section: Essiet Essiet on bass, Sylvia Cuenca on drums, and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” on sax.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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This serene “Westport … Naturally” scene from the bay at the mouth of the Saugatuck River was taken (naturally) before today’s weather.

(Photo/Dan Vener)

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And finally … in honor (?) of Westport’s newest store, and its bright lights:

(Whether it’s a new smoke shop or a lash store closing, “06880” has got our retail scene covered. Please click here to help support all that we do. Thank you!)

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Startup Westport: Public/Private Tech Partnership Launches Thursday

Posted on March 13, 2023 | 2 comments

Stefano Pacifico founded Epistemic AI — a proprietary mapping technology that helps discover relationships between genes, diseases, pathways, drugs and biological functions — 5 years ago.

It was based in Westport — the town he’d lived in already for a couple of years — but his employees worked remotely.

Back then, that was a novel concept.

Today, it’s the way much of America — particularly tech companies like his — operate.

Now Pacifico wants more startups — many more — to do it too.

And with their headquarters right here in Westport.

Stefano Pacifico

He understands the attraction of a New York or Boston for a tech founder. But — based on his own experience — he knows the attraction of a town with amenities like great schools, a wonderful library, plenty of recreation and restaurants, and much more.

He pitched the idea — making Westport a special, suburban center of an ecosystem of tech people and investors — to Jen Tooker.

The 1st Selectwoman — who often calls our town “the best place to live, work and play” — was all in.

The result: a public/private partnership called “Startup Westport.”

Among the others working on the project: Dan Bikel, Sam Handel, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, Gioel Molinari, Jay Norris, Peter Propp and Cliff Sirlin.

A kickoff event is this Thursday (March 16, 6 p.m.). The site is — appropriately — the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum, itself a hub of creativity and innovation.

Matt Gorin

Local infotech and biotech entrepreneurs — and anyone else interested — is invited. The program includes an introduction to the “Startup Westport” concept, and a 2023 tech business outlook by Westporter Matt Gorin, co-founder and general partner at Contour Ventures. Tooker will speak briefly.

Attendees will have a chance to meet other tech entrepreneurs, and find out what they’re doing here.

Pacifico notes that Startup Westport is not an investment vehicle, incubator or fund.

It’s also not a vehicle to learn about entrepreneurship. There are plenty of resources for that online — and at the Library.

And it’s not yet a “formal entity.”

What Startup Westport is, he says, is “a citizen-led organization to promote Westport as the most attractive place for start-up companies.”

Pacifico is not sure where the idea will go. That’s part of the reason for Thursday’s session: figuring out next steps.

But — like any good visionary — he’s already thinking ahead.

“My kids are 6, and almost 4,” he says. “They’re just starting in school. But wouldn’t it be phenomenal if, when they get to Staples, they have access to all kinds of tech startups, right here in Westport?

“I didn’t have that. It would have been amazing for me.”

(For more information on Startup Westport’s Thursday launch event, click here. For Startup Westport’s website, click here.)

(“06880” launched 14 years ago. We’re still going strong — and still rely entirely on reader support. Please click here to contribute. Thank you!)

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Dr. Altbaum Takes New Library Series To Heart

Posted on March 12, 2023 | 4 comments

Westporters take care of ourselves.

We eat well. We exercise. Very few of us are obese, or smoke. We control our cholesterol and blood pressure.

But we’re not immune to cardiac disease.

Which is why even healthy-feeling folks should check out the 3-part Westport Library series focusing on cardiovascular health.

Created by Andrew Wilk — the Emmy-winning television executive producer and director of shows like “Live at Lincoln Center” — and led by noted physician Dr. Robert Altbaum, the topics are coronary artery diseases (March 14), valvular heart disease (March 22) and atrial fibrillation (April 17).

Andrew Wilk’s first session on heart disease includes (starting 2nd from left) Drs. Robert Altbaum,

“Every one of us is 2 degrees of separation from someone with cardiac issues,” Altbaum says.

“10 percent of people over 70 have atrial fibrillation. 25 million people in the US have coronary artery disease.”

That’s the bad news.

The good news is: Medicine has made gigantic strides in treating those illnesses. Between medication, stents, and procedures like angioplasty and ablation, heart ailments are no longer death sentences.

Altbaum and his expert colleagues will discuss treatment options. They’ll answer questions from the audience.

All 3 sessions begin at 7 p.m. All will be led by Dr. Altbaum, with coronary experts. Click here for details. Click here for the livestream.

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