Category Archives: Library

10-Year Capital Forecast: $473,000,000

Posted on February 28, 2025 | 10 comments

This week’s charrette about a new public safety headquarters, to be shared by Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services, drew public attention to Westport’s 10-year capital forecast.

It includes nearly 70 projects estimated to cost at least $1 million. They range from those well into the planning stages, to others far in the future.

The cost of all $1 million-and plus projects: $431,521,675.

Another 200 or so items are listed for than $1 million each. They bring the total 10-year capital plan to $473,517,178.

Not every project will come to fruition, of course. Those that do may be substantially altered. And the capital forecast changes annually.

Most would be funded by bonds. Private funds would be sought for major recreational improvements like artificial turf on athletic fields, a Longshore clubhouse cart barn, the Inn at Longshore renovations, and a pedestrian bridge across the Saugatuck River. ARPA is funding some previously approved projects. too.

The combined public safety facility is the costliest item. It’s listed at $92.5 million.

Coleytown Elementary School renovation/replacement is projected to cost $85 million, while the Long Lots Elementary replacement — much further along in development — is listed at $80 million.

The next most expensive project — listed for $12.2 million — is for replacement of the Coleytown fire station.

Coleytown Elementary School (center) and the Coleytown fire station (lower left) are both in the new 10-year capital forecast.

Click here, then scroll down to “2024-25” for the first 2 items: “10-Year Consolidated Capital Forecast,” and the forecast over $1 million. Here are the projects listed for at least $1 million:

Central public safety headquarters: $92.5 million

Coleytown Elementary School renovation/replacement: $85 million

Long Lots Elementary School renovation/replacement: $80 million

Coleytown fire station replacement: $12.2 million

Longshore pool area improvements: $8.83 million

Longshore construction fees/clubhouse cart barn parking and surrounds: $8.175 million

Inn at Longshore renovations: $8 million

Longshore parks maintenance facility: $6.695 million

Replacement of the Longshore maintenance shed has caused controversy in town.

Transform Parker Harding Plaze (combine with downtown project): $6 million

Staples High School roof replacement of 2006 addition/other areas not replaced in 2023: $5.275 million

Bedford Middle School roof replacement: $5.225 million

Jesup Road/Taylor Place design and construction: $5.1 million

Kings Highway Elementary School roof replacement: $4.993 million

ARPA projects approved previously (facilities, human services, health, arts, schools): $3.707 million

Saugatuck fire station renovation: $3.6 million

Staples High School Loeffler field and baseball field, artificial turf: $3.5 million

Loeffler Field at Staples High School. Artificial turf here, and on the adjacent baseball diamond, would be funded privately. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Public ssafety radio system subscriber units replacements: $3.25 million

Greens Farms Elementary School roof replacement and replair, exhaust fans replacement: $3.235 million

Longshore golf course irrigation system: $3.095 million

Old Mill walkway reconstruction, rehabilitation of tide gates: $3.082 millionARPA funds, $2.498 million bonding

Saugatuck Elementary School HVAC upgrades (5 years out): $3.072 million

Longshore and Evan Harding renovations: $3.045 million

Longshore pickleball courts: $3.025 million

Cross Highway bridge over Deadman Brook: $2.5 million

Sidewalk rehabilitation: $2.5 million

Longshore waterline installation: $2.2 million

Pedestrian bridge across Saugatuck River design and construction: $2.15 million

Greens Farms Elementary School retrofit AHUs: $2.132 million

Like all Westport schools, Greens Farms Elementary needs constant attention. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

Fire Department replacement of ladder truck: $2.1 million

Deadman Brook at Jesup Road design, permitting and construction: $1.95 million

Longshore Zone 5 parking and enhancements: $1.948 million

Long Lots Road bridge over Muddy Brook design and construction: $1.8 million

Longshore tennis and platform courts renovation: $1.78 million

Town Hall space planning design and renovation for ADA compliance: $1.75 million

Revaluation — assessor: $1.69 million

Hillandale Road culvert replacement at Muddy Brook: $1.675 million

Charles Street, Park Street and Riverside Avenue signal streetscape: $1.675 million

Wakeman E field artificial turf: $1.65 million

Staples High School, replace sports flooring: $1.624 million

Fire Department, replace engine or quint: $1.6 million

Coleytown Middle School artificial turf: $1.6 million

Staples High School, evaluation of stage rigging: $1.576 million

Riverside Avenue and Bridge Street, landscaped roundabout: $1.575 million

Town Hall exterior repairs, painting, chimney replacement: $1.55 million

Town Hall needs upgrading too.

Fire Department, replace engine or quint: $1.5 million

Replace 6 Freightliner plow trucks: $1.5 million

Imperial Avenue parking lot, improve appearance and safety: $1.5 million

Long Lots Elementary School, athletic field renovations artificial turf: $1.5 million

Compo Road South sidewalk replacement: $1.47 million (grant)

Deadman Brook at Myrtle Avenue culvert: $1.4 million

Bedford Middle School, replace millwork: $1.358 million

Replace 5 Freightliner plow trucks: $1.25 million

Compo Beach entrance, walkway, fencing: $1.25 million

Longshore renovation, Cuttings Lane East: $1.215 million

Westport Library, partial roof renovation: $1.2 million

Partial Westport Library roof repair is in the capital forecast.

Greens Farms Elementary School, replace hot water boiler, pumps and valves: $1.186 million

Coleytown Elementary School, casework replacement: $1.143 million

Staples High School, AHU at gym with AC and BMS controls: $1.129 million

Staples High School, AHU at gym: $1.056 million

Staples High School, replace cooling tower filter, pump, water treatment, BMS controls: $1.046 million

Compo Beach retaining wall, north side: $1.025 million

Fire Department, replace rescue truck: $1 million

Staples High School, asphalt repair and replacement: $1 million

Pump station #8 rebuild: $1 million.

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Economy, Education, Library, Local politics, Longshore, Police, Staples HS

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Roundup: Staples Sports, Springsteen, Substances, …

Posted on February 27, 2025 | 3 comments

It took 62 years. But the Staples High School boys basketball team scored another FCIAC championship.

The Wreckers won the league title last night, pulling away at the end. Seeded #2, they knocked off top-ranked Ridgefield 68-58, before a raucous Fairfield University crowd.

It was the second victory for Staples in 6 days over the Tigers. Last week, on the road, the Westporters denied Ridgefield’s bid for an undefeated FCIAC record, on the last day of the regular season.

It was also the first FCIAC crown, in 3 straight trips to the finals.

Adam Udell — named MVP of the title contest — led the victors with 24 points. Fourteen came in the crucial 4th quarter. Matty Corrigan added 19 more.

Next up: the state tournament. The boys — seeded 4th in the 16-team Division I — host their first game on Tuesday (March 4, 6:30 p.m.). They face #13 Kolbe Cathedral.

The girls basketball team begin their state title quest too, away.

Adam Udell heads to the basket. (Photo/David G. Whitham for The Ruden Report

Wearing championship medals, Wreckers celebrate their first FCIAC title in 62 years. (Photo courtesy of Staples boys basketball)

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Bruce Springsteen is coming to VersoFest!

Well, not exactly.

But pretty close.

On Saturday, April 5 (1 p.m.), a free panel discussion on the 50th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” features an all-star cast of The Boss’s collaborators and experts.

They include Mike Appel, Springsteen’s first manager and co-producer of “Born to Run”; former Columbia Records promotions director Michael Pillot, who spearheaded the album’s promotion, plus music historians Robert Santelli and Kenneth Womack.

The panel will be hosted by author and pop culture historian Arlen Schumer. In 1978 he was art director of Thunder Road, the first magazine devoted to Springsteen’s life and music.

Co-host Dick Wingate is a former music industry executive who managed the production of Springsteen’s “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” and many other influential albums.

VersoFest highlights also include a conversation between Patti Smith and Westport journalist/rock memoirist Alisyn Camerota; a concert with the Wallflowers; a chat with hardcore punk legend Henry Rollins and Nabil Ayers, president of the record label Beggars Group; interactive art exhibits; a graffiti workshop led by visionary artist 5iveFingaz, and a weekend family kickoff celebration.

Sunday (April 6) caps off the weekend with a VersoFest Oral History Podcast live recording with David Letterman musical director Paul Shaffer, and “Saturday Night Live” tour de force Christine Ohlman.

Click here for the full VersoFest schedule, plus tickets and more information.

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Tuesday’s charrette at the Senior Center was an early step in discussions of  possible construction of a combined Police/Fire/Emergency Medical Services facility. (Click here to read yesterday’s “06880” story on that meeting.)

Town officials noted the scarcity of available land for the approximately 10 acres needed for the project. The best site, they said, is at the current I-95 Exit 18 commuter parking lot.

One of the posters displayed at the event showed locations of current police and fire stations, schools, and other town-owned property.

Click below to see. Red dots indicate current fire and police facilities; green dots show public schools, and yellow shapes indicate large town-owned properties.

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This is not your kid’s school “show and tell.”

The Westport Prevention Coalition invites parents to a special “hands-on” meeting March 6 (12:30 p.m., Town Hall Room 201).

The topic is “Today’s Emerging Substances & Our Youth.”

Attendees can “browse through today’s substances,” learn about new products being marketed, hear about the risks of gaming and gambling, and pick up free parenting handbooks and resources.

Edibles are an ever-changing part of the cannabis market.

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A reader concerned about “the usurpation of commuter parking spaces at the Westport train station by Avis car rental” writes:  “While they have specially reserved spaces, they typically take another 10-15 commuter spots with impunity and without penalty.

“This was fine during COVID. But now that ridership is increasing, especially with the implementation of the congestion tax, commuters need all our convenient spots — particularly at 6 a.m., on cold or rainy days.”

“06880” reached out to the Westport Police Department, which oversees parking at the town’s 2 train stations.

Deputy Chief David Farrell says, “Avis rents 20 designated spaces at the Saugatuck station – and they pay the daily fee for each. If they utilize other spaces, they receive $25 tickets per vehicle. Now that more people are using Metro-North, strict enforcement is underway.”


Avis cars in non-designated train station spots, earlier this month.

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On Sunday, 150 people walked from the Westport Country Playhouse to the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.

There they placed orange balloons, in memory of the 2 “flame-haired” little boys murdered by Hamas, after being kidnapped on October 7, 2023.

On Tuesday night, co-organizer Jennifer Wolff and her husband went downtown, to remove the deflating balloons.

Two had fallen into the Saugatuck River — in the shape of a heart.

“It felt like an appropriate sendoff,” Jennifer says.

“I hope whomever this balloon heart passes thinks of the Bibas boys, who were put to rest that day with their mama.”

(Photo/Jennifer Wolff)

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The Planning & Zoning Commission took a field trip Tuesday to Baron’s South.

Their tour of the 22-acre property included Golden Shadows, the 1950s-era “mansion” owned by Baron Walter Langer von Langendorff, the perfume mogul. It, and adjacent buildings, are being considered for affordable housing.

Former Representative Town Meeting member Harris Falk took up the invitation to join the tour. He dressed in his trademark colorful outfit.

Inside the house, P&Z member Neil Cohn noticed that Falk’s get-up blended in almost perfectly with the Baron’s wallpaper.

Harris Falk, inside the Baron’s mansion. (Photo/Neil Cohn)

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One more special Westport arts figure has been added to next Thursday’s relaunch of the Susan Malloy Celebration of the Arts: Gina Rattan.

The 2004 Staples graduate — a Broadway director and creative consultant — joins artist Miggs Burroughs, arts leader Melody James, and singer/actor Melissa Newman for the March 6 (7 p.m.) evening of conversation and storytelling. All are Westport residents.

Weston actor James Naughton will moderate the panel discussion, focusing on how Westport has become a magnet for artists, performers and creatives for decades; how the town’s artistic spirit has evolved, and continues to thrive in new and exciting ways; and the role of the next generation in carrying forward Westport’s rich cultural heritage.

Click here for more information.

Gina Rattan

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Speaking of the Library: Club203 sure knows how to have fun.

Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities celebrates March with a special karaoke event.

The Westport Library hosts the sing-out on March 18 (6:30 to 8 p.m.).

Attendees can request their favorite songs now. For details and registration, click here.

Club 203, at last year’s Westport Library event.

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Jerry Kuyper captured — with a camera, from a safe distance — this Tuesday night visitor on Rayfield Road, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

“The bluestone walkway is just under 2 feet wide, for scale,” he says.

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … as soon as you saw the story on the Bruce Springsteen event at VersoFest (above), you knew what today’s featured song would be, right?

After 50 years, it’s still one of the great rock songs of all time.

(There’s no place left to hide. Please click here to support your hyper-local, 24/7/365, Boss-loving blog. Whether you were born to run, or have always stayed in the 06880, we thank you.)

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Photo Challenge #530

Posted on February 23, 2025 | 7 comments

The Westport Library is one of the most popular spots in town.

And the Library Café is one of the most popular spots inside that very versatile building.

So it was no surprise that nearly 2 dozen readers quickly guessed last week’s Photo Challenge.

Pam Docters’ image showed a once-well-used card catalog, now repurposed to hold utensils, condiments and sugar, for patrons sandwich eaters and coffee  drinkers.

Click here to see the photo. And kids: If you have no idea what a “card catalog” is, ask your parents. (Or grandparents.)

Congratulations to Dick Lowenstein,, Susan Israel, Joyce Barnhart, Lynn Untermeyer Miller, Sal Liccione, Nina Marino, Molly Alger, Alison Wachstein, Seth Schachter, Andrew Colabella, Ed Simek, Beth Berkowitz, Rachel Sara Halperin, Karen Como, Scott Brodie, Jonathan McClure, Jack Backiel, Peter Gold, Janice Strizever, Susan Garment and Karen Kim.

For correctly guessing last week’s Photo Challenge, you all win a free library card!

This week’s challenge is below. If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” underneath.

(Photo/Stephanie Mastocciolo)

(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: License Plate Readers, Hostage Walk, College Mental Health …

Posted on February 22, 2025 | 14 comments

When the Board of Selectwomen meet Wednesday (February 26, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium), they’ll discuss the usual types of items: road closures for events like the Memorial Day parade and road races, sewer connections, etc.

One item is different: approval of a maintenance agreement between the town and the state Department of Transportation “for permission to work within the highway right-of-way to install, maintain and replace automatic license plate readers.”

The town already has one set of license plate readers, at I-95 Exit 17. This agenda item is for another set, at I-95 Exit 18 at the Sherwood Island Connector.

The readers are a response to the rash of car thefts in the area. They give the Westport Police Department a head’s-up if a stolen car is entering town off the highway — or headed out of here, onto it.

The selectwomen’s approval is needed to ensure the state that local officials will maintain the devices.

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Early reviews are in for “Native Gardens” — and they’re raves.

Westport Country Playhouse’s current production — a hilarious yet thought-provoking show about a neighborly dispute that turns into a battle of cultures — gets high marks for its acting, message, and breathtaking set.

The show runs through March 8. Click here for tickets, and more information. Click below for the trailer:

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Tomorrow’s Run4TheirLives walk honors the Bibas family. The 2 boys, ages 4 and 9 months, were killed by Hamas, after being kidnapped from their kibbutz. The fate of their mother is unknown.

As they’ve done for over a year, Westporters will gather at 11 a.m. in the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot on Sunday, then walk through town.

They will say the Mourner’s Kaddish, carry orange balloons in memory of the flame-haired brothers, and pray for their mother.

All Westporters of all ages are invited to join. Wear orange sweaters, coats, hats or reflector vests; bring orange balloons or Bibas signs.

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In November, Startup Westport’s “Young Innovators” forum drew an SRO crowd to the Westport Library.

Entrepreneurs and investors from their 30s through 70s were awed by presentations from a quartet of Staples High School alumni — none older than 25 — who have crushed the tech world.

The star of the star-studded panel was Dylan Diamond. The 2017 grad is co-founder and CEO of Saturn. The Gen Z calendar app has raised $68 million, scaled to millions users, reached 18,000 schools, and hit #1 in the App Store  — all after starting out as a high school project.

The event was moderated by Molly O’Shea. The oldest person on stage — she graduated from Staples in 2014 — is no slouch herself. A venture capital investor, Molly founded Sourcery, the VC deal and startup trend newsletter.

Now she’s posted a podcast with Dylan. It opens with a huge shout-out to the Startup Westport event (which she links to, and includes in every Sourcery social post).

Click below for Molly and Dylan’s very insightful — and entertaining — chat.

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There are many ways to prepare students for college. Sometimes overlooked — but crucial — is to focus on mental health.

On Tuesday (February 25, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library), Dr. James Geisler will discuss mental health challenges on college campuses, and help parents support their children’s transition to higher education. For more information, click here.

Graduation is fun. But preparing for the next step is very important.

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This year’s Westport Woman’s Club gala celebrates women who have made significant contributions to philanthropy and service to the community.

The April 5 event (6 p.m., Patterson Club, Fairfield) will be emceed by Scott Foley. His 30-year career in films and on TV include “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scream 3,” and (currently) “Will Trent” and “La Dolce Villa.”

He lives in Westport with his wife, 3 children and many pets.

The evening includes a performance by the R&B, soul and dance band the  Bernadettes, plus a silent and live auction.

Guests will enjoy a vibrant performance by The Bernadettes, an R&B/Soul and Dance band, creating a lively atmosphere as well as an opportunity to bid on wonderful silent and live auction items.

Click here for tickets, and more information. Sponsorships are available for $1,000 (to provide clothing for children in need), $5,000 (a need-based scholarship for a graduating senioro) and $10,000 (225 bags of food to struggling families).

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Kings Highway Elementary School students spent Kindness Week spreading joy — within the building, and the entire district.

Every student helped design and create a “kindness rock” — a KHS tradition.

Fifty of them will be delivered to Westport’s 4 elementary schools, 2 middle schools and Staples High — along with a video message explaining their significance, and how each school might use them.

That’s “kind” of a great idea!

Kings Highway’s “kindness rocks.”

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As a 2-year captain of Staples’ boys soccer team, Mike Dobbs earned renown on the field. Like any soccer player (except the goalkeeper), he did plenty of running.

After a start at Athletic Shoe Factory in Westport, he’s spent his professional career in the running shoe industry. And he’s still running — though on roads, not soccer pitches.

Mike will compete in the Boston Marathon in April. It’s a way to compete — and raise money for Dana Farber Cancer Research, in honor of his late mother Sharon (a well-known and dedicated Westport Soccer Association volunteer).

The funds Mike raises will go to the Claudia Adams Barr Program. Click here for more information, and to contribute to his campaign.

Mike Dobbs

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There’s always something going on at MoCA CT. Ahead:

Upcycle Sculpture Workshop (today, Saturday, 1 p.m.): Tour of WestPAC’s :On Fire” and the high school exhibition “Humans & Nature”; then create sculptures with artist Remy Sosa.

Darwin Shen (violin), Michelle Kim (piano): Putting on the Fritz  (Sunday, February 23, 4 p.m.): Recital of rarely performed, newly discovered and reconstructed works by Fritz Kreisler.

Art Adventures! Drop-Ins for Kids (Saturdays, 12 to 1:30 p.m.): For children of all abilities: multi-media classes with space to explore new techniques and expression through art.

Community Conversation: Art, Infrastructure, and the Environment (February 27, 6 p.m.): Moderated by curator Ive Covaci; a diverse panel of speakers discuss the intersection of art, sustainability, and community resilience.

Upcoming Art Workshops: Hands-on classes include Ceramic Multi-Bowl Building with Leah Corbett (March 6) and Basket Weaving with Tina Puckett (March 8).

East Coast Contemporary Ballet: Galerie de Danse (March 6 and 7, 7:30 p.m.): Dance  and live music in a gallery setting. .

RSO Quartet: Daylight & Dances (March 8, 7 p.m.): Sring players of the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra; works by Haydn, Price, Bartok and Puccini.

Sound Healing Meditations with SoulOSoaring (March 18, 6 p.m.): Healing practitioner Terry Eldh uses crystal alchemy singing bowls, crystal harp and koshi chimes.

Current Exhibition, through March 2: “On Fire”: Over 75 works in a variety of media; explores how artists from the 1930s to today have envisioned and responded to the interrelationships of energy, infrastructure, and the environment. The 4th annual exhibition by Westport Permanent Art Collections, inspired by 8 paintings created by Ralph Boyer in 1934 for the old Staples High School, as part of the Federal Public Works of Art Project. These paintings usually hang in the Westport central fire station.

For more information on MoMA CT, click here.

MoMA’s “On Fire” exhibition.

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This kingfisher bird hangs out by the bridge between the Imperial Avenue parking lot and the Westport Library parking lot.

He seemed to be looking sideways — right at Johanna Keyser Rossi — as she captured him for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … on this date in 1872, the Prohibition Party held their first national convention, in Columbus, Ohio. It took nearly 50 years, but the 19th Amendment went into effect in 1920. Thirteen years later, it was repealed.

(“06880” relies on reader support. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. We’ll drink to that!)

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Posted in Arts, Library, Police, Politics, Sports, Staples HS, technology

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Walter Luckett Foundation: From Hoops To Hope

Posted on February 17, 2025 | 10 comments

Walter Luckett scored more points than any other high school basketball player in New England history.

He won a state championship at Bridgeport’s Kolbe Cathedral High School, and was named National High School Player of the Year in 1972.

After appearing on the cover of Sports Illustrated as a Ohio University freshman — and then a successful college career — he was drafted by the Detroit Pistons.

He scored 28 points against a team that included Julius Erving and Earl Monroe But the effects of a knee re-injury — after first damaging it in high school — derailed his hopes for NBA stardom.

Luckett returned to his hometown. He earned an MBA, became Unilever’s manager of community relations, and married his high school sweatheart, Valita. She enjoyed similar corporate success, at Southern New England Telephone.

But the couple’s real impact is far from the office. Since forming the Walter Luckett Foundation in 2013, they’ve impacted thousands of young people, ages 8 to 22, in Bridgeport, New Haven and Waterbury.

Through leadership and youth development training; literacy, standardized test prep and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) programs, and mentorships, job preparation and more, they are changing lives throughout the region.

Nicole Carson (left), a Kolbe Cathedral High School graduate and wellness spa owner, is a Luckett Foundation mentor. She shows Kolbe students how to make a cleansing product. (Photo/Dan Woog)

And — thanks to a partnership with the Westport Library — their work has a Westport component too.

When Shonda Rhimes spoke there at last month’s Martin Luther King Day celebration, a contingent of Walter Luckett Foundation students had front-row seats.

They asked provocative questions, and saw a role model up (very) close and personal.

“Who you are is up to you,” the Shondaland CEO; creator, head writer and executive producer of “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice,” and “Scandal,” and producer of “Bridgerton” told the teens.

Walter Luckett Foundation students were front-row guests at the Library’s Martin Luther King Day celebration. They were inspired by Westport resident Shonda Rhimes — and Christian Servance (above),  a gospel singer and special friend of the Foundation.

A Luckett Foundation contingent was at the Westport Library last year too, when King’s speechwriter Clarence Jones made history come alive.

Carlotta Walls LaNier — one of the Little Rock 9, who integrated Central High School in 1957 — spoke at the Westport Library in 2022. She spent an hour before her talk in a private session with Walter Luckett Foundation students from Bridgeport and New Haven, and Staples High School.

The teenagers may or may not have heard of her in their history classes. But they were prepared with excellent questions.

“Can people change?” one teenager asked.

“Yes,” LaNier said — “if they are open to accept different experiences, and learn from them. If you are true to yourself, you can learn on a daily basis.”

Another question was about “our better angels.”

“It’s hard to find them,” LaNier admitted. “But I know they’re out there. That’s why it’s so important to learn, and talk about, our country’s history.”

Before her Westport Library appearance, Carlotta LaNeir (above, and in 1957) spoke with Luckett Foundation students.

Earlier, at the Westport Library’s inaugural VersoFest, Luckett and his wife brought a group of teenagers to the keynote by actor/writer/producer/martial artist/former Westport personal trainer Michael Jai Wright.

He described his quest to bring a full-scale, state-of-the-art, employing-hundreds studio and production facility to Connecticut.

“I was not put on this earth to make a billion dollars,” he told the crowd — packed with Luckett Foundation teens. “I’m here to share a billion dollars.”

All those messages are important for the Bridgeport and New Haven students to hear.

But it’s equally important for Westport’s young people to be exposed to the Luckett Foundation youth. More programs are planned for the future.

Walter and Valita Luckett (center), with Kolbe Cathedral basketball coach and Luckett Foundation member John Pfohl, and Kolbe graduate and Foundation mentor Nicole Carson. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Staples High School is just 10 miles from Kolbe Cathedral, home base for the Luckett Foundation.

The Bridgeport private school is far smaller than its Westport counterpart — 325 students, compared to 1,900 — but its focus on academic success, and the rigor of its classes, is just as strong.

Luckett credits Kolbe for much of his success. It provided a basketball court for his athletic talents, and it instilled the values of hard work and goal-setting that have driven his life’s work.

To see Luckett, his wife, and the Kolbe staff in action is inspiring, and powerful.

The other day, I spent time with them at Kolbe.

I saw Nicole Carson — a 2005 Kolbe graduate, and owner of Carson Aesthetics Wellness Spa in Milford — work with students, teaching them the chemistry behind her cosmetic products.

I learned about the Luckett Foundation’s work with Bridgeport elementary schools, and the importance of mentors from Sacred Heart Universtiy.

I heard a graduate say, “I wouldn’t be who I am without Mr. Luckett and his foundation. Coming back to Kolbe is like coming home. It keeps me grounded.”

I listened as John Pfohl, Kolbe’s boys basketball coach, extolled Luckett for his legacy. One of the Foundation’s programs brings high school players to Madison Square Garden, for a day of learning about sports management.

For some, it is their first time ever in New York City.

Kolbe Cathedral, at Madison Square Garden.

But even on that trip, Luckett says, “we talk about a lot more than basketball. We talk about what’s next, after the ball stops bouncing.”

I heard about the Foundation’s many important partners, including Unilever, M&T Bank and State Farm.

“We’ve been blessed,” Walter Luckett says, of he and his wife’s lives. “We’re just sharing our blessings.”

“We’re looking for an equitable playing field for all,” Valita adds. “These kids are brilliant. They just need support and assistance, to continue to blossom and grow.”

“We’re in Fairfield County — one of the most affluent areas of the country,” Walter notes. “But Bridgeport is a different world.

“We’re a safe haven,” he says of Kolbe, and the Luckett Foundation. “I wish we could provide for everyone.”

Together with their partners — including the Westport Library — Walter and Valita Luckett are providing many resources, in plenty of ways, for great young men and women.

And for our future.

(To learn more about the Walter Luckett Foundation — including how to contribute — click here.)

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Pic Of The Day #2860

Posted on February 16, 2025 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #2860

Soggy Sunday at the Westport Library (Photo/Patricia McMahon)

Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #2860

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Roundup: Malloy Lecture, Craig & Lindsay’s House, Longshore Sign …

Posted on February 16, 2025 | 1 comment

Since 2002, the Malloy Lecture in the Arts has brought some of the world’s most extraordinary creative voices to Westport.

Clive Davis, Arthur Miller, Joyce Carol Oates, Christopher Plummer, Salman Rushdie and others have sparked thought-provoking, engaging conversations for Westport Library audiences of all ages.

The lectures were underwritten by Westport artist Susan Malloy.

Now — thanks to the Malloy Fund for the Arts — the Library is reimagining the series.

The relaunched event will celebrate Westport’s artistic legacy, while also looking toward its future.

On March 6 (7 p.m.), the Library hosts an evening of conversation and storytelling. Some of Westport’s most influential artists will reflect on how this town has shaped generations of creatives.

Actor/director Jim Naughton — a Weston resident — will moderate the panel discussion. Participants include graphic artistMiggs Burroughs, whose work has defined the town’s artistic identity; Melody James, a leader in the arts known for fostering creative expression; and singer/ actor Melissa Newman, who launched her photo-based book about her parents, Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman, at the Library in 2023. All are Westport residents.

Ann Sheffer — a passionate arts advocate and philanthropist whose family’s contributions have helped shape the cultural fabric of Westport — will also speak.

Additional special guests will be added closer to the event.

Their conversation will explore how Westport has become a magnet for artists, performers and creatives for decades; how the town’s artistic spirit has evolved, and continues to thrive in new and exciting ways; and the role of the next generation in carrying forward Westport’s rich cultural heritage.

Susan Malloy

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Ever wished you could snag an invite to Craig Melvin and Lindsay Czarniak’s house?

I’ve never gotten one. But thanks to the New York Times, I — and anyone else on the planet with internet — can check out a few highlights.

Today’s New York Times Real Estate section — and a previous digital feature several days ago — shows a few rooms. The new NBC “Today” host reveals how the family landed in Westport (it was midway between New York and Bristol, Connecticut, where she works for ESPN), and near a train station.

He talks about their strong relationship with the town (youth sports coaching, PTA, etc.).

And he shows off his grandmother’s beloved chair, and his own candle-making equipment.

All of the comments on the Times story are favorable. Many note how genuine and hard-working the couple is. Many others cite how lived-in and well-loved the house seems to be. It’s not fake or prettified, like many celebrities’ homes.

One commenter applauded the creases in the couch, as evidence that it’s actually used.

Click here for a tour of Craig and Lindsay’s home. (Hat tips: John Karrel, Les Dinkin)

Craig Melvin’s chair, vinyl and more. (Photo/Tony Cenicola for The New York Times)

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The entrance sign at Longshore was showing its age.

There’s a new one now — courtesy of Marty Rogers, Westport’s favorite sign-maker.

It looks a lot like the old one. But it’s fresher, cleaner — and, like its predecessor, will last for quite a while. (Hat tip: David Tetenbaum)

Henry Smith and Marty Rogers, of Marty’s Sign Design.

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As a busy doctor — and the mother of 2 — Jordan White doesn’t have a lot of time to dance.

But the 1994 Staples High School graduate is making time for Dancing with the Doctors. The April event pairs a Providence doctor with a professional dancer. Proceeds benefit Hope Health Hospice & Palliative Care.

Dr. White is a consultant medical director at the Rhode Island Department of Health, and a course leader in the Primary Care-Population Medicine Program at Brown University’s Warren Alpert Medical School.

She focues on RIDOH’s refugee health program, family planning/reproductive justice, and the health of pregnant and parenting families.

Click here to vote for (and donate to) Dr. White.

Dr. Jordan White

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Staples High School’s elite Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra performs a free concert on March 4 (2:45 p.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church).

The public is invited to this Y’s Men of Westport and Weston-sponsored event.

Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra

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Hernan Diaz — author of “In The Distance,” the Westport Library’s 2025 WestportREADS selection — entertained a large Trefz Forum audience Thursday, in a keynote conversation.

Catherine Shen — host of Connecticut Public’s morning talk show and podcast
“Where We Live” — asked provocative questions. Diaz answered scintillatingly, with depth and insight.

Catherine Shen chats with Hernan Diaz. (Photo/KT Kaminski)

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We all know the dog days of August.

Half a year away, here is a “Westport … Naturally” dog day of February.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … on this date in 1923, Howard Carter unsealed the burial chamber of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.

(Through snow, rain, sleet, hail — and brilliant sunshine — “06880” is here for you. We’re your 24/7/365 source for hyper-local news, events, opinions and more. Please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Roundup: Cabaret Ole, Art Scholarships, Westport Hardware & Playhouse …

Posted on February 15, 2025 | 1 comment

Staples Orphenians have shared their music with audiences all over the world. They’ve particiated in global educational events too.

This June, the elite high school choral group heads to the Spain Choral Festival

To ensure that every singer can particiapte, they’re hosting a “Cabaret Olé” fundraiser.

The March 30 event (6 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church) features members of
grammy-nominated VOCES8 and other Broadway stars, along with tapas, other light bites and a silent auction.

Funds raised will also support the VOCES8 Foundation, which is developing an educational music hub in the Westport area.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Staples Orphenians

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Speaking of the arts: Less than 2 weeks remain for high school seniors to apply for $5,000 worth of scholarships.

The Drew Friedman Community Arts Center grants go to students with financial need who want to pursue an arts education at any level — university, community college or an arts school. All Westport 12th graders are eligible, no matter where they currently attend school.

The DFCAC is funding the scholarships. It was founded by Friedman — the downtown property owner, restauranteur (Onion Alley, Cobb’s Mill Inn, Stonehenge Inn) and philanthropist whose first wife Bobbie was an accomplished artist.

The Drew Friedman Community Arts Center also sponsors workshops and projects for students. The center is administered by Nick Visconti, Friedman’s longtime business partner.

To apply, students who currently participate in art classes or art activities should send up to 8 digital images (JPEGs) of their work. It can be any medium — photography, painting, sculpture, drawing, digital art, or other.

Applicants should also submit a statement of up to 300 words describing the value of art in their life, and the world at large.

Send images and the statement (or any questions) to info@DrewFriedmanCommunityArtsCenter.org (subject line: “2025 Scholarship”). The deadline is February 28.

2024 Drew Friedman Scholarship winners Chloe Hackett and Mia Vindola (holding checks) with (from left) DFCAC co-directors Miggs Burroughs and Nick Visconti, and First Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

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Speaking still of the arts: The Westport Country Playhouse and Westport Hardware may seem to have little in common.

But they’ve teamed up on a special “buy one, get one free” offer for the upcoming production of “Native Gardens.”

The show’s theme is “good fences make good neighbors (or do they?)” — and of course Westport Hardware sells every type of garden accessory imaginable.

For more information, and tickets, click here, or call the box office (203-227-4177). Use or mention the prmoo code “COMMUNITYBOGO.”

Fences — common to the Westport Country Playhouse and Westport Hardware.

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Congratulations to John DiBartolomeo!

The 2009 Staples High School basketball star — who went on to earn Division III National Player of the Year honors at the University of Rochester — has had a long professional career in Israel.

On Thursday, his Maccabi Tel Aviv team won the prestigious Israeli Cup.

Click here to read all about his pro career. (Hat tip: Chuck Haberstroh)

John DiBartolomeo

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Speaking of sports: DiBartolomeo’s fellow 2009 Staples graduate Parker Kligerman won his 4th-ever NASCAR Truck Series race this week, an event leading up to the Daytona 500.

But he was disqualified an hour later. His truck failed ride height checks, and was too low in the rear. His team said they’d appeal.

Click here and click here for the full story. (Hat tip: Frank Rosen)

Parker Kligerman

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Yesterday’s “06880” Friday Flashback noted that there are 19 Westports in the United States, and 22 around the world.

Right on cue (and it was actually the next day there), Pippa Bell Ader checked in.

She and her husband David are in New Zealand, visiting her sister. Here’s one of the Aders’ stops, on the west coast of the South Island:

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Doris Ghitelman captured yesterday’s full “snow moon” yesterday. Her intriguing “Westport … Naturally” image was taken at the Saugatuck train station.

(Photo/Doris Ghitelman)

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And finally … on this date in 1764, the city of St. Louis was established in Spanish Louisiana (now Missouri).

(If it happens in Westport, Connecticut — or Westport, New Zealand — you’ll read about it on “06880.” If you enjoy our hyper-local coverage, with a global twist, please click here. Thank you!)

 

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Wallflowers Step Into VersoFest Spotlight

Posted on February 14, 2025 | Comments Off on Wallflowers Step Into VersoFest Spotlight

Dylan is coming to VersoFest!

Not Bob. As impressive and high-powered as the Westport Library’s annual music and media festival is, it can’t (yet) snag the Nobel Prize-winning singer/ songwriter/cultural icon.

But his son Jakob — creator, frontman and lead vocalist of the Wallflowers — brings his alt-rock band to the Trefz Forum on Friday night, April 4.

For over 30 years, the Wallflowers have honed a sound that meshes timeless songwriting and storytelling with a hard-hitting, definitely modern musical attack.

They’ve sold more than 10 million albums, and won 2 Grammys.

Jakob Dylan

Their recordings include 1996’s “Bringing Down the Horse” — with hits like “One Headlight,” “Three Marlenas,” and “6th Avenue Heartache” — as well as “Breach,” “Rebel, Sweetheart” and “Glad All Over.”

In recent years Dylan stepped outside the band, with a pair of acoustic, rootsy records, then with the 2018 film “Echo in the Canyon.” He collaborated on the soundtrack with Neil Young, Eric Clapton, Beck and Fiona Apple.

Dylan returned to the Wallflowers in 2021, with a fresh group of musicians.

Despite the hiatus, Exit Wounds was a return to the band’s signature sound, even as Dylan surrounded himself with a fresh cast of musicians.

“I came up in an era of great rock ‘n’ roll bands making great music, and it’s the way I always imagined I would do it one day,” he says.

“That’s always been my vision with the Wallflowers: to be a great rock ‘n’ roll band. I’ve worked on it for 30 years now, and I still have a lot to say. It’s something I started a long time ago, and it’s far from finished.”

The Wallflowers’ show is not the only VersoFest highlight. The night before (April 3), rock star and National Book Award winner Patti Smith kicks off the 4-day festival.

In addition to the Wallflowers and Smith, this year’s VersoFest includes hardcore punk pioneer Henry Rollins, and longtime David Letterman music director Paul Shaffer.

There is a symposium celebrating the 50th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run,” special exhibits by local graffiti artist 5ive Fingaz, a gospel revival, workshops and more.

Click here for details on all the VersoFest events — and to purchase tickets.

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Roundup: Parks & Rec Summer Registration, CMS At The Playhouse …

Posted on February 14, 2025 | 3 comments

Online registration begins at 9 a.m. March 11 for 2 of the most popular Parks & Recreation Department summer programs: Camp Compo and RECing Crew.

Registration opens the next day (March 12, 9 a.m.) for all other spring and summer offerings.

Parks & Rec officials urge residents to log in now to their online accounts, to verify family information.

  1. Log in and select “Manage Family Member” (bottom right).
  2. Click the first name in the column under “My Family Members” to check key details.
  3. Verify date of birth and ensure your child’s grade (as of September 2025) is correct.
  4. Click “Save” at the bottom.
  5. Go to the “Contact Information” tab and review/update your contact details. Click “Save” again.
  6. Repeat for each family member in your profile.

Address Change? Email us at recreation@westportct.gov with updated information.

Login issue? Don’t create a new profile. Email recreation@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-5152.

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Coleytown Middle School theater students got a special treat Wednesday.

Westport Country Playhouse technical director Jason Thompson led a tour of the theater, for Coleytown Company’s tech crew.

It was not a random invitation. Thompson is working with the students to build the set for “Matilda,” the CMS show that runs April 4-6.

The visit was coordinated by Ben Frimmer. He wears 3 hats: theater arts educator for Westport Public Schools, director of Coleytown Company, and Playhouse trustee.

“I want to make Westport students more aware of the only professional theatre in Westport,” he says.

“Coleytown has one of the strongest middle school tech programs in the country. But I think it’s critical we expand students’ knowledge past what we do at school. This trip allowed them to experience the world of professional technical theatre.”

Coleytown Company’s tech crew toured the historic Playhouse, visited the scene shop, and watched set building underway on stage for the opening next week of “Native Gardens.”

Jason Thompson, Playhouse technical director (right) and Matthew Melchiorre, Playhouse director of production (left), explain set construction of “Native Gardens” to  Coleytown Company’s tech crew.

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Speaking of the Playhouse: They’ve added 2 new events to their April calendar.

“Me, Myself, and Barbra” is a tribute to Ms. Streisand, by Jenna Pastuszek. She was inspired by a meeting with the singing star, who inspired her to embrace her inner Barbra.

The show is April 24 — Streisand’s birthday. Tickets are $45 and $40; pre-show party and show tickets are $55 and $50. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

“2 Motherpluckers” is a musical, featuring a pair of guitar-playing, songwriting local moms — Julie Foldesi and Stacie Morgain Lewis — on a hilarious journey through the bumps of motherhood.

Broadway star/Westport resident compares it to “the Indigo Girls meet Kristen Wiig.”

The Lucille Lortel White Barn Center show is April 29 (7 p.m.). All tickets are $20. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Three new art exhibits are on display at The Westport Library. “Good Bones: 60 Years of Multi-Dimensional Commentary” by Nina Bentley, “City Sights” by Susan Fehlinger, and “Art and Jazz” by Jean Krasno run through March 25.

Bentley’s art is often conceptual in nature, offering poignant commentary on a wide array of social issues. “Good Bones” is a retrospective of decades of her work, composed of sculpture, prints, pen and ink, and multimedia assemblages.

Fehlinger worked for 35 years as a television producer in New York City. Yearning to paint, she left her job in 2003 and embarked on a career as an artist.

Her style emphasizes  texture, color, and light. Her compositions play with scale, placement, and negative and positive spaces.

Krasno is inspired by the magic of jazz music, conveyed through the rich voices, poetic lyrics and rhythmic performances of artists like Dave Brubeck, Miles Davis and Duke Ellington.

“Art and Jazz” creates a sensory experience that combines her art with the music that sparked its creation, incorporating a listening component with QR codes that link to jazz songs.

Art, by Nina Bentley

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The Westport Board of Education Policy Committee’s next meeting is February 27 (11 a.m., Town Hall Room 309).

Discussion items include:

  • Second reading of possible revisions to the suicide prevention and intervention policy.
  • First reading of possible revisions to existing policies involving the Americans with Disabilities Act, non-discrimination, and sex-based discrimination and harassment.
  • First reading of a possiible new policy on transportation.
  • Discussion of a policy on survey of students/student privacy.

Meanwhile, one of the agenda items for the Planning & Zoning Commission’s February 24 meeting (6 p.m., remote; click here for the link) is a special permit request by Fairfield County Hunt Club.

They’re applying to build an indoor racquet sport facility, for club members and guests.

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Congratulations to 14 Staples High School musicians. They auditioned successfully for the Connecticut Music Educators Associaton All-State Festival.

Their names and talents are below:

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A late model Audi was stolen around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, from the parking lot at Bridge Square.

The thief opened the door, and drove off. It appears the keys might have been left in the car.

The epidemic of car thefts continues in Westport. Once again, “06880” reminds residents to lock your cars — always. Never leave your keys in your cars. Always be aware of your surroundings. And if you have a garage: Use it!  (Hat tip: Ben Meyer)

Don’t be a victim!

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Many Westporters (judging by comments on, and to, “06880”) don’t like dogs on the Compo Beach boardwalk.

But many others (using the same unscientific method) don’t like signs warning them to keep away.

They’re too large and intrusive, readers say.

One resident has another point of view. “At least they’re the right height for dogs to read,” he says.

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Eve Potts spotted this at the Regents Park condos, after our most recent storm. It’s today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature. She calls it “Nature’s Sculpture.”

(Photo/Eve Potts)

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And finally … Happy Valentine’s Day, to all who celebrate it.

There are squintillions of songs to choose from. These 3 seem to cover it well:

(Sure, you can show your love for “06880” with flowers or chocolate. But we prefer that you click here, and make a tax-deductible contribution. Hey, we’re honest! Thank you all …)

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