Music played. People danced. The event space and rooftop buzzed with excitement.
There was a lot of looking ahead — and a bit of looking back — as Staples High School’s soon-to-be graduates gathered for a special party.
The evening was created by seniors Gavin Gravelle, Jasmine Schiffman and Stella St. Andre. As part of their internship, they decided to plan something that did not feel like a typical school event.
Students enjoyed golf simulators, private karaoke rooms, and plenty of food and drinks. As they celebrated, they reflected on their time at Staples — and the future ahead.
“I’m so excited to try something new and go to a new place,” Abbie Pleiter said.
She is heading further than any classmate: to the University of Western Australia.
Heading to colleges far and near (from left): Abbie Pleiter (University of Western Australia), Sadie Vincini (University of Connecticut), Eliza Walmark (Penn State) and Brady Dennett (Fairfield U).
Others traveling less far also look forward to what college offers.
“I can’t wait for this new chapter at Syracuse,” Nathaniel Phillips said.
For some, the excitement comes with a little anxiety. Ava Coyle — off to McGill University — said, “I’m so hyped for the new experience. But I’m a little worried about living in a different country than my whole family. It’ll be a great start to a new chapter, though.”
Two Avas: Chun (Elon) and Coyle (McGill).
Others are excited about getting back to what they love.
The University of Vermont “is a huge ski school. I love to ski, so I’m excited to hit the slopes,” Ben Zwick said.
From A (Andre Albanese, University of Richmond) to Z (Ben Zwick, University of Vermont).
The Clubhouse night was not just about having fun. It was also a time to think about pursuing new (and current) interests.
“I’m going to college for songwriting,” said Vivian Shamie. “I can’t wait to collaborate with new people, and work on myself as an artist.”
Jasmine Schiffman, one of the organizers, reflected on the hard work she put into this event.
“It’s so rewarding to see something I put so much effort into turn out so great, by giving everyone this experience,” she said.
Jasmine Schiffman, one of the senior intern organizers.
Nathaniel Phillips shows his Syracuse pride.
Next up for Kaela Cohen and Nash Teran: Southern Methodist and UConn, respectively.
4 friends: Brooke Saporta (Cornell), Isla Goldberg (University of Colorado), Sophie Stackiewicz (Florida State) and Dylan Lebowitz (Syracuse).
Molly Dubson will attend McGill. Oliver Galin heads to Syracuse.
Kody Goldman is off to Penn State. Shreyas Gorre is Michigan-bound.
Sam Rossoni (University of Pennsylvania), Luca Caniato and Katie Hannon (both University of Colorado), with some of their classmates’ schools. (All photos/Katherine Phelps)
Now the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee wants to hear yours.
A 30-question survey is live. It covers respondents’ use and knowledge of parking options, metered parking, a deck and more.
Several questions have the opportunity to expand on answers.
The aim of the survey is to vet the recommendations already developed by consultants and DPIC. Final recommendations will be presented by DPIC to the Board of Selectwomen next month.
Some of the parking survey questions cover a parking meter app.
=================================================
It’s not easy to pass a bill in Hartford.
But for months, Zander Bauer and Elijah Falkenstein plugged away.
The Staples High School juniors — founders and co-presidents of the local Make Our Schools Safe chapter — pushed for a law to authorize the purchase of emergency response communications systems and personal emergency communication devices for school personnel.
Yesterday, their efforts were rewarded. The state House of Representatives voted unanimously — 145 to 0 — to pass the legislation.
Passed earlier by the Senate, it now goes to Governor Lamont for his signature.
Congratulations to Zander, Elijah, the entire Staples MOSS club, and our own Senator Ceci Maher, its sponsor.
Elijah Falkenstein and Zander Bauer, with “stop the bleed” kits — another Make Our Schools Safe project.
The Planning & Zoning Commission continues its dizzying round of meetings, on a series of controversial projects, next Monday (June 9, remote).
This time, it’s the Long Lots Elementary School project. Commissioners will consider a new 8-24 request from the town, and a new special permit/site plan.
Last night’s bash honored the 2025 women: Mary Dobson, Arvia Few, Sharon Finkel, Bridget Flynn, Ashley Freeman, Kira Greenfield, Joanna Manfro, Liz McKay, Rachel Mila, Tara Welch, Ambar Zaatar and Becca Zipkin.
Congratulations to all. Women of Westport rock!
A few men joined the Women of Westport, at the Westport Lifestyle party. “06880” founder Dan Woog and Monique Hodges enjoyed one of the Vespas on display. (Photo/Jerri Graham)
Rich Dean and Nas Dean are known for their great work, training people of all ages at Rich Dean Boxing & Fitness on Post Road East across from the Saugatuck Church.
Now they’re known as philanthropists, too. The pair just donated $6,000 to Westport PAL’s scholarship fund.
Thank you both!
Nasir and Rich Dean.
================================================
What does 50 Cent have to do with Westport?
About $1 million.
According to The Source — a hip hop site — the rapper/actor/producer/ entrepreneur recently won a legal victory. He can now seize the Main Street home belong to Mitchell Green, a former executive with 50 Cent’s Sire Spirits Champagne and cognac company.
Green reportedly owes the firm more than $7 million, following an alleged kickback scheme. Read more details here.(Hat tip: John McCarthy)
50 Cent may soon own a Westport home.
===============================================
Speaking of entertainment: Steely Dan comes to Weston on Sunday.
Well, at least Logical Pretzel — a cover band — does.
They’ll kick off the 10th season of the Weston History & Culture Center’s “Music at the Barn” series (June 8, 5:30 p.m.).
The 2nd annual Pickleball To Slam Alzheimer’s event is set for June 20 (6 to 8 p.m., Intensity Racquet Club, Norwalk).
All proceeds from $100 tickets go toward the October 26 Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Sherwood Island State Park.
The pickleball event is hosted by Westporters Mary Sue Teplitz, Dina Upton and Lori Snow. Mary Sue’s mother died from the disease in 2012. Dina’s partner, Gary Cosgrave, passed away from it this year.
Seen on Facebook yesterday, in the Marketplace section under the “Casket & Casket Trailer” tab:
The description says: “Selling a couple caskets that were used in haunted houses. Casket trailer has some dents and rot and the inside is stripped – $300 Blue casket is in great condition overall on the outside but has some scratches and the inside is stripped – $600 Pick up in Westport, CT.”
There’s always a back story. If you know this one, click “Comments” below. (Hat tip: Frank Rosen)
We’ve showcased lots of interesting animals in our “Westport … Naturally” feature.
But we’re hard pressed to find any as intriguing as barred owls.
This one posed willingly for Lee Bollert. In fact, she says, it stared right at her — through a window — for 10 minutes.
(Photo/Lee Bollert)
=================================================
And finally … in honor of the items currently for sale on Facebook, from right here in Westport (story above):
(From downtown parking to caskets, and barred owls to 50 Cent: If there’s a Westport connection, we’ll find it. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Marina Drasnin was a Holiday on Ice figure skater.
She married, got divorced and remarried. Eight years ago, her second husband passed away.
Marina Drasnin
All along, she enjoyed a career as a photographer and artist. She worked for Larry David, arranging flowers and creating other art projects for his events. She developed books of photos, for private clients.
Marina had a beautiful home, with a garden she loved, in Pacific Palisades, California.
Life was great — until this past January, when wildfires raged. Then came torrential rains, and mudslides.
Marina’s home suffered extensive smoke damage. Most of her neighbors’ were destroyed.
After living with her friend Randy Gardner — the figure skating star — in Manhattan Beach for 2 weeks, and 2 more weeks with other friends in Ventura, she decided to take up friends’ suggestions to move east.
A Southern California native, she’d gotten to know — and love — this part of the country as a Tufts University student.
Her son went to Sarah Lawrence College, and now lives in Brooklyn. Marina’s best friend lived in Westport, and is now in Weston.
Moving was a daunting decision. She navigated a tight real estate market, from 3,000 miles away.
Suddenly, something came on the market: a 900-square foot cottage on Richmondville Avenue.
The wooden floors were new. It was clean and fresh. In back was a beautiful garden.
Marina’s Richmondville garden.
She put in an application, sight unseen. Then she googled the name of the realtor: Mar Jennings.
Amazingly, Marina learned, he’d been a figure skater.
They chatted, and found several friends in common. Mar has been “an angel,” Marina says.
And that was just the start of her love affair with her new home town.
Marina (and her 2 cats) arrived on May 1. Since then, life has been wonderful.
Marina has enjoyed photographing scenes like this.
Outgoing by nature, Marina met many new people. They’ve quickly become friends.
The staff at the Parks & Recreation office were extremely helpful. A girl working at the Longshore tennis courts introduced her to a woman, who invited her into a doubles game. The other women were equally warm.
The woman’s Greens Farms home was surrounded by lilacs and dogwoods. “I’m in heaven here, with them all around,” Marina says.
Marina is enchanted by scenes like this.
The garden in her new home — and shops like Terrain — enthrall Marina. She looks forward to checking out Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Shop, which she’s heard so much about.
“I almost got in a car accident today, looking at all the peonies and rhododendrons.” (She’s already driving like a Westporter, it seems.)
She went to the Memorial Day parade. She’s been invited to a clambake.
Memorial Day photo collage, by Marina Drasnin.
And Jenny Bentley — half of the 2Jens organizing business — is helping Marina unpack and get settled. (They met through a mutual friend, who works for Westporter Shonda Rhimes.)
“I love all these old houses and country roads,” she says.
“People in L.A. seee my Instagram and say, ‘You’re in love with Westport.’ I am. I feel safe here. I can go places by myself. I’m so happy.
“I’m happy with my neighbors. I’m happy to see people walk by. I just saw an old-fashioned ice cream truck!'”
After we chatted, Marina was off to the Westport Book Shop. She loves it too — and hopes one day to have a show there.
Compo Beach lifeguard chair (Marina Drasnin)
Soon, Mar Jennings — the realtor who helped her find the cottage she loves — will be taking her to dinner.
They’ll have a lot to talk about, from their ice skating past to the home town they now share.
Mar Jennings and Marina Drasnin.
(Welcome to Westport, Marina! Whether you’re a newcomer or a native, we hope you enjoy “06880.” A reminder: We rely on readers’ support. If you like this hyper-local blog, please click here. Thanks!)
Posted onJune 1, 2025|Comments Off on Roundup: StartUp Pitch Competition, Fulbright Scholar, Westport Community Theatre …
Less than 2 weeks remain to enter StartUp Westport’s first-ever Pitch Competition.
The event — for innovators and entrepreneurs, not baseball players or musicians — offers early-stage startups a chance to win a non-dilutive, 5-figure cash prize
It’s also a great way to plug into our town’s vibrant network of mentors, business leaders and passionate supporters.
Eligibility is simple: pre-institutional funding, a scalable business model, and a founder with Connecticut roots or strong state ties.
In September, 4 finalists will be chosen to pitch “live shark tank-style” (though with more encouragement and, perhaps, less drama).
Winners will be announced November 20, at the Westport Library.
==============================================
Congratulations to Wes DeOreo!
The 2021 Staples High School graduate (and former lacrosse player) has been awarded a Fulbright Scholarship for 2025-26.
The program offers 400 positions in over 135 countries. Awardees teach, conduct research and carry out professional projects.
DeOreo — who just graduated from Bates College with a double major in politics and German — will teach in Germany.
At Bates he served as an AESOP leader, rugby club president, athletics student assistant, and fitness attendant.
He is no stranger to Germany. DeOreo has studied transatlantic history at the University of Freiburg; and taught English and coached club lacrosse in Freiburg.
He looks forward to joinng community sports teams, and reconnect with German friends and family. After his Fulbright, DeOreo will pursue a career in public service. (Hat tip: Linda Smith)
Wes DeOreo (Photo/Phyllis Graber Jensen for Bates College)
==============================================
The curtain rises Friday on the Westport Community Theatre’s new show, “The Gods of Comedy.”
The show — about a young classics professor who calls on Greek gods for help after a priceless manuscript goes missing — is full of “chaos, confusion, and divine mischief.”
The cast includes Jacqueline Carlsen, Henry Durham, Bob Filipowitch, Carin Freidag, Martha Hegley, Paula Lacy, Marcy Sansolo, David Victor and Virgil Watson.
“The Gods of Comedy” plays weekends through June 22, in the lower level of Town Hall. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. on Sundays. There is one Thursday show: June 12, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available here.
Speaking of Library music: Dan Bikel filled the bill last night.
By day a computer scientist and AI leader at Meta, he’s also a very talented singer, songwriter and composer. (With great genes: He’s the son of Theodore Bikel, the folk singer who played Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof” over 2,000 times._
Dan entertained the Trefz Forum crowd with original songs on piano and guitar. He also performed the second movement of his Piano Concerto No. 1, showing his classical side.
Jim Naughton has shared his enormous acting talent, and the celebrity that comes with it, to advocate — and raise millions of dollars — for many excellent causes.
He has been active in areas ranging from animal welfare to the death with dignity movement. in Fairfield County and beyond.
He has been a special friend of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County, including hosting every ACE Awards ceremony.
This year, the tables are turned. The longtime Weston resident (and Tony Award winner) will be honored with the Citizen Impact Award, for his contributions to arts and culture here.
Speaking of the Westport Pops Concert: It’s this Friday (June 6, 7 p.m., Levitt Pavilion).
If you’ve been before, you know it’s a kick-off-the-summer highlight, featuring a couple of hundred talented teenage musician, under the stars. Free tickets are available here.
But note: If you’ve been before, you may have had dinner from food trucks in the Library parking lot.
There are no food trucks this year. So eat before you go — or better yet, bring a picnic. The lawn opens at 6 p.m.
Speaking of theater: Sure, the Westport Country Playhouse’s gala — celebrating 95 years of history and entertainment — is more than 4 months away.
But save the date: October 4.
And get ready to celebrate the evening’s honoree: Anne Keefe.
A cornerstone of the WCP since 1973, she has been involved in nearly every facet of the famed stage.
Key achievements include a pivotal role in the 1999 campaign to renovate and preserve the Playhouse, and her leadership as associate artistic director and co-artistic director (alongside Joanne Woodward).
For over 35 years. she’s supported the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp Gala. She has been honored with an award for lifetime achievement in stage management, selection to the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame’s 10 Women of Distinction, the Westport Arts Award for Theatre, and the Connecticut Critics Circle’s Tom Killan Award.
Keefe has taught at the Yale School of Drama, and served on the boards of the Playhouse and Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County.
Tickets and more information will be available soon.
Anne Keefe
=================================================
Sure, the bar is high for entitled parking.
But this shot — from yesterday’s dance recital at Bedford Middle School — clears that bar.
Note the arrogance of simply parking in the middle of the lot, forcing drivers in 2 directions to creep around.
Stopping right across the white line is a bonus.
The coup de grâce, of course, is that the driver is facing the wrong way. Impressive!
Bill Evans — the owner of William Evans Painting — is an unsung hero.
His crew, who have been with him for 20+ years, painted our little ranch house 2 years ago, and did a great job.
They caulked, repaired, replaced rotted fascia board, and worked together like a well-oiled machine. Under his watchful eye, everything was finished perfectly.
He’s also done lots of work inside our house. He comes up with solutions to seemingly unsolvable problems. A sliding barn door to block off Mark’s music room is just one.
During COVID, he kept his crew working. While other companies were laying off workers, he took care of them. He took jobs for less money than usual, but paid them their usual wages.
I see Bill’s signs all over Westport, and think what a good choice those homeowners made.
Meanwhile though, he is also president of Connecticut Quest for Peace. He devotes much of his time traveling to Nicaragua for this non-profit, delivering donated goods and overseeing programs and services.
His house is filled with music, food, and people who work for him and visit from Nicaragua. We walked by one evening, and were invited into a feast and music event. The language barrier did not stop the joy.
Bill first traveled to Nicaragua in 2002. It was a life-changing experience. He loves the people — especially the children — and has worked with CT Quest for Peace ever since.
His organization is a wonderful way to donate items no longer needed here, but greatly needed in Nicaragua. I gave them my mother’s sewing machine, an old model that works without electricity.
Bill Evans
Bill is as good and modest a human being as you’ll find. We need his kind of selflessness in the world more than ever.
Bill first traveled in 2002 with Randy and Linda Klein and eight other Americans to Nicaragua to visit missions and centers supported by Connecticut Quest for Peace.
Today, the warehouse of William Evans Painting Company in Bridgeport — which manages a wide variety of residential, commercial and industrial projects — is also the storage center for CT Quest’s humanitarian aid cargo. It is often overflowing. Bill continues to pick up many of the donations himself.
“We give so much,” Bill says. “But we get back much more.”
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
Friends of Sherwood Island plan a great “Trails Day Weekend” for early June.
And you don’t have to be a member to join the fun.
Kayak Paddle: Survey Terrapins and Birds in the Marsh (June 7, 8:30 a.m., end of East Beach parking lot). Count diamondback terrapins (with a guide), and document birds using iNaturalist.
Bring your own kayak, canoe or other paddlecraft, life vest and whistle/horn (required by state boating regulations), and kayak cart if you have one. Optional: waterproof binoculars for spotting birds, and/or a waterproof camera. Free; registration requested.
Butterfly Walk (June 7, 12 noon, Nature Center). Join Michele Sorensen to explore the gardens and natural areas in search of caterpillars, skippers, moths and butterflies.
Bring binoculars and a camera or smartphone, to learn to report your findings on iNaturalist. Children are welcome. Free; registration requested.
A Walk Through Historical & Archaeological Time (June 8, 1 p.m., Nature Center).
A family-friendly, educational walk on the Sherwood Island History Trail, led by archaeologists. Start at the Ice Age, when Long Island Sound was formed. Examine traces of past inhabitants of Sherwood Island, from Native Americans in 1000 BC to onion farmers of the 1940s. Artifacts, maps, old photos and recent recoveries bring the island’s past inhabitants to life. Free; registration requested.
Beach to Beach Walk (June 8, 3 p.m., Nature Center). Discover habitats, inhabitants and special features, including the 9/11 Memorial, model airport, wetlands and pine forest. Free; registration requested.
Shewood Island State Park: 232 acres of prime real estate, right here in Westport.
More environmental news: Aspetuck Land Trust and Wild Ones present a “Lunch & Learn” webinar, “Creating Beautifully Designed Food Forests for Migrating Birds” (May 30, noon to 1 p.m.).
Eva Monheim discusses edible forest gardens — intentionally created, self-sustaining ecosystems that provide food and other resources for humans and wildlife — and proper plant selection.
And — right on cue — today marked the first unfriendly and unethical “saving” of a Compo Beach picnic table.
At 8 a.m.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
A reminder — more gentle than it deserves: Those notices on the top of each table that “Picnic Tables May Not Be Reserved” are not there for decorative purposes only.
Last week’s Westport Library spring book sale was one of its biggest indoor sales ever.
But it wouldn’t have been possible without all the volunteers, book donors and patrons who participated.
Westport Book Sale Ventures says is grateful “for the scores of dedicated volunteers who commit their time, energy and enthusiasm to processing the tens of thousands of books and other media our community generously donates each year, and to the scores more volunteers who help set up and operate our 4-day sales.”
The organizers add a shoutout to volunteers from M&T Bank, Westport Rotary and Sunrise Rotary, the Y’s Men, Staples High School’s SLOBs and SLOGs, and the National Charity League.
Proceeds from the book sales support the non-profit’s dual missions: to provide employment and volunteer opportunities for adults with disabilities, while raising funds for the Westport Library.
Since opening the Westport Book Shop on Road, Westport Book Sale Ventures has provided over 10,500 hours of employment and job training for more than a dozen adults with differing abilities, at the store and in their eBay online sales operation. They’ve contributed over $200,000 to the Westport Library too.
Sourcery — a VC deal and startup trend newsletter and podcast — is a must-read-and-listen in the industry.
Founder Molly O’Shea is a 2014 Staples High School graduate. She’s always on the lookout for interesting interviews.
No suprise: From time to time, they’re fellow alums.
The most recent is Whop CTO Jack Sharkey. The 2018 SHS grad’s platform connects buyers and sellers in the digital economy, focusing on influencers and content creators.
With a million customers and 3,000 sellers, Whop has facilitated $100 million in transactions.
Molly and Jack gave nice shoutouts at the start and end to Westport, and their alma mater. You can click the Sourcery link here, or click on the video below.
Saturday’s Roundup noted the compelling presentation by Dmitry Kamensky on Friday. The Ukrainian law professor met a small group at Larry and Mary-Lou Weisman’s house, where he described the dire situation in his war-torn nation.
But Professor Kamensky also talked about the strength and will of his countrymen.
And he must have been bolstered by the show of support from the Westporters, whom he met through his work on constitutional law with Larry Weisman and Ken Bernhard.
Not to mention, the beautiful bouquet — in Ukrainian colors — arranged by Mary-Lou Weisman.
Many Westporters have weighed in on the Hamlet at Saugatuck — the retail/residential/hotel/marina complex proposed for the area near the railroad station and river.
We have not heard a lot from Saugatuck business owners and employees, however. “06880” intern Katherine Phelps reports:
The ROAN Ventures project could have a dramatic impact on our town’s original commercial center. Some restaurateurs and workers believe it will benefit them; others fear it will destroy all they have worked for.
Patrick Camaro, general manager of The Bridge at Saugatuck, is optimistic.
“It’s good for the area, it’s good for us, it’s good for business,” he says.
The Bridge at Saugatuck opened last fall.
Others fear the project could do more harm than good.
Paul Nessel, owner and butcher at Saugatuck Provisions, supports thoughtful development, but is skeptical about the project’s impact on local infrastructure.
“Traffic is already at a standstill coming through Saugatuck for several hours pretty much every day,” he says.
“If anything is wrong on 95 or the side roads, we’re really shut down. It hurts my business, and makes it hard for people to get through.”
Parking and congestion are longstanding challenges in Saugatuck — issues critics say The Hamlet may worsen. Nonetheless, proponents argue that the developer is equipped to address them.
“ROAN can help figure out the traffic situation because they can hire engineers,” Camaro said.
Charles Street traffic, at Railroad Place.
At the May 19 Planning & Zoning Commission meeting, Fiona Flynn of SLR — representing the traffic planning side — noted that the state approval for traffic volume had already been cleared.
Byron Alonso, an employee at Kneads, is passionate about the Hamlet development, specifically the long-term vision of the plan.
“I think it’s important to have better construction and the best future in Westport,” he says.
“So many people say it’s not good because we lose the natural elements and there will be traffic. But I agree with improving the future of Westport.”
Still, numerous concerns persist — particularly, for restaurant owners, about traffic.
Congestion along Charles Street and Riverside Avenue is a longstanding issue that could be worsened by new development.
Bill Rizzuto, founder and owner of the restaurant that bears his name, adds, “Saugatuck already suffers from a significant parking shortage, especially in the evenings.
“Despite this, we continue to add capacity without adequately addressing infrastructure — particularly parking.” This impacts residents as well as visitors.
Rizzuto’s’ parking lot is larger than most in the area.
When Rizzuto opened his restaurant in 2009 he struggled to secure a variance, because even his large lot did not meet required parking ratios.
In the 15 years since, Rizzuto says, while traffic is more dense, parking issues seem to have become less of an official priority.
Rizzuto notes that issues like those are crucial.
“If we want mixed-use developments in Saugatuck to thrive, we must put parking and access at the forefront of planning discussions,” the restaurant owner says.
“Ignoring these fundamentals risks undermining the long-term success of any project before it even begins.”
The debate over The Hamlet at Saugatuck — including its potential effects on parking, traffic and the impact on restaurants and businesses beyond its boundaries — continues next month.
The Flood & Erosion Control Board considers its wetlands application June 4 June 4 (7 p.m., Zoom; meeting ID 864 1571 7675; passcode 407757). The Planning & Zoning Commission is expected to again address the Hamlet at its June 9 meeting.
In the days since Dr. Mark Oestreicher announced his retirement from his dermatology practice of 46 years, the popular physician has been inundated with letters and emails from grateful patients, and their families.
They describe his caring, compassionate manner. They recall important — even life-saving — diagnoses. They say, “You were the best doctor I ever had.”
The praise is well deserved. (Full disclosure: Dr. Oestreicher is my dermatologist. I agree with all the kudos.)
Dr. Mark Oestreicher
In his near half century of practice, Dr. Oestreicher has treated tens of thousands of people. He worked in 2 offices — Westport and Trumbull — from 6:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., 6 days a week.
He saw the parents of patients, and their children — and grandchildren.
The age range, and variety of cases, is what made dermatology so initially appealing, and ultimately so satisfying.
The Bronx High School of Science graduate was the first person in his family to go to college.
After SUNY-Stony Brook, his first choice for medical school was Georgetown. But New York state offered him a $150 Regents scholarship, so he headed to Albany Medical College.
He was interested in internal medicine. A few dermatology cases, though — and conversations with dermatologists — convinced him to switch specialties.
Dermatology involves immunology, physiology and surgery. “You never get bored,” Dr. Oestreicher says.
He did his residency at UCLA. (California is also where he saw his only case of leprosy.) But an earthquake in 1979 sent him and his wife Marilyn back east. He never regretted the move.
Dr. Mark Oestreicher, and his wife Marilyn.
He knew Westport from his aunt and uncle, who built the first home on Pequot Trail. (He visited in the early 1960s to watch New York Giants football games; blacked out in the city, they could be seen here on Hartford’s Channel 3.)
Early in his career, he met highly respected internists like Paul Beres, Harold Steinberg and Robert Altbaum. He gained their trust by diagnosing difficult cases they had sent him. His practice grew.
“I didn’t want to be a technician,” Dr. Oestreicher says, explaining why he has never specialized in Botox and laser treatements.
“I have nothing against cosmetic work. It just wasn’t for me.”
Instead he earned a reputation as a master diagnostician. He recalls with satisfaction a newborn with a high fever, whose body was blistering. She had been tested for fungus and herpes. Dr. Oestreicher realized it was a staph infection. Antibiotics saved her life.
He diagnosed lupus in a woman whose skin was peeling off. He moved her to the burn unit, and saved her life.
His early detections of skin cancer have saved countless livs.
When the AIDS crisis hit in the 1980s, Dr. Oestreicher was the only dermatologist who would see those patients.
For 3 decades, he was the only one to run a dermatology clinic for Medicaid patients at Bridgeport Hospital — for free. He’ll continue there for the rest of the year, even after retiring.
Until 2 years ago Dr. Oestreicher even made house calls, to infirm patients. “She treasured those visits,” the former caregiver of one woman told him recently.
He treasured them too.
Still — in addition to his practice, and teaching at Yale, Bridgeport Hospital and Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Dr. Oestreicher somehow found time to be a Cub Scout master, and soccer and Little League coach.
The Oestreicher family.
He and Marilyn raised 4 children. Their son Matt is a singer/songwriter, who toured with Lady Gaga, worked with Rihanna and Alicia Keys, and is now assistant musical director of the Apollo Theater. Jeffrey is a pediatric emergency doctor at Long Island Jewish Medical Center, while Adam — who gets married next month — manages a tennis club in Trumbull.
Their daughter Amy — a very talented artist, performer and writer — died 4 years ago, after a multi-year battle with rare stomach problems. “She was surrounded by a circle of excellence,” her father says, of support from doctors and the community.
Two cancers — and chemotherapy, which destroyed 70% of his lungs — have forced Dr. Oestreicher to retire. His last day in the office is June 30.
Until then he sees patients in the morning, 3 days a week. He gets in early, takes oxygen, then does what he has done for 46 years.
“I spend plenty of time with each one,” Dr. Oestreicher says. “We kibbitz. We laugh.”
Dr. Mark Oestreicher, mid-career.
His cancer has limited some of what he will do in retirement. But he plans to join the Y’s Men, join Marilyn at their favorite restaurant (Sakura), and continue to make a difference in his community.
He’ll have time with his wife, too. He and Marilyn celebrate their 53rd anniversary in July. “I’m the luckiest guy,” he says.
“I always stress to my staff: We’re here to make a difference in people;s lives. They’re often scared. Our job is to let them know what’s going on, and feel okay. I never compromised. I always put them first.”
In his retirement letter to patients, Dr. Oestreicher expressed his “deepest gratitude to every one of you for entrusting me with your health over the years.
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve as your doctor, and I am grateful for the relationships we have built. Your trust and support have been the driving force behind my commitment to excellence.”
“I just love being a doctor,” Dr. Oestreicher says.
His patients love having him as their doctor, too.
Which is why the thank-you cards, letters and emails keep pouring in.
Westport’s Fine Arts Festival is just 2 days away.
On Saturday and Sunday (May 24 and 25, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), the national Top 20 show draws 165 fine artists from 19 states to Main Street and Elm Street. As always, there are returning faces. This year, 41 artists are new.
The Westport Downtown Association event includes plenty of family activities. They include Elmo and friends, facepainting, crafts, games, dancing and photo ops.
The new Long Lots Elementary School is on the agenda for a joint Conservation Commission, and Flood & Erosion Control Board, meeting June 4 (7 p.m., Zoom; meeting ID 864 1571 7675; passcode 407757).
Later in the meeting, the Flood & Erosion Control Board, meeting separately, will consider the wetlands aspects of the application for the Hamlet at Saugatuck project.
Muddy Brook, near Long Lots Elementary School. (Photo/Peter Swift)
Westport Police made no custodial arrests between May 14 and 21.
They issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 11 citations
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 10
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
Driving while texting: 2
Failure to renew registration: 2
Speeding: 1
Texting, 2nd offense: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
No passing zone violation: 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Disorderly conduct: 1
Disobeying the signal of an officer: 1
Do not disobey a police officer!
============================================
Eleish Van Breens Home celebrates “Glorious Gardens and Styled Interiors,” with a meet-and-greet and book signing with author Dara Caponigro and interior stylist Mieke Ten Have on June 4 (June 4, 4 p.m., 177 Main Street).
“Botanical beverages” and lite bites are provided by Allium. A portion of the proceeds will benefit local garden clubs.
Dara Caponigro’s book.
================================================
Everyone has heard of the Lindy, twist and electric slide.
But the grizzly bear? Maxixe? Lulu fado?
Susan de Gardiola has. And the social dance historian brings her knowledge to the Weston History & Culture Center on May 31 (2 p.m.). Her “May I Have This Dance?” celebrates the openng of an exhibit on the changes in dance and music in the years from the sinking of the Titanic through World War I.
She’ll talk about fads, and the musicians of that era too. Free for members; $10 for non-members.
The companion exhibit — from her private collection — includes original early 20th century dance manuals, rare sheet music, and dance cards.
The next day (June 1, 2 p.m.), the Weston History & Culture Center hosts a Ragtime Tea Dance. De Guardiola will teach the 1-step, 2-step, foxtrot, tango and other dances from the ragtime era. No partner or experience needed! Tickets are $25 for members, $35 non-members. Only 25 spots are available.
Irene and Vernon Castle.
=============================================
Spring is finally — and fully — here.
Greenery is everywhere. Including today’s “Westport … Naturally” view, in the Old Hill neighborhood.
His real name is George Wendt. But everybody knows his name.
(Like “Cheers” years ago, “06880” is something you trust will always be there. We rely on reader support to make that happen. Please click here to make sure we keep serving ’em up for you.)
This Saturday marks the start of Memorial Day weekend.
And — thanks to Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department — it’s also the kickoff to summer.
Plus the grand reopening of the Compo Beach playground.
The full day at Compo begins with an “unveiling” at the playground, at 10:30 a.m. There’s a special invitation to all who helped renovate it. Wear your team shirts, for a group photo.
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the family-friendly “Kickoff to Summer” includes:
Touch-a-Truck, with vehicles from Westport Police, Fire, EMS, Public Works, and Parks & Recreation Maintenance
Face painting
Obstacle courses
Program info and demonstrations
Raffle prizes, with giveaways from Longshore Golf, Longshore Sailing School, and IST Camp
Food trucks: Good Burger. The Parlor Pizza, The Milk Truck, LobsterCraft, Fork in the Road.
But wait! There’s more!
At 8:15 p.m., a bonus Movie Night at the Beach — “Trolls” — begins. Bring a blanket and chairs, for the grand finale of the Kickoff to Summer.
=================================================
The “06880” tagline is “Where Westport meets the world.”
It doesn’t get more worldly than the Olympics.
Saatva — the luxury mattress company whose made-to-order products are hand-delivered by white-glove teams; whose founder and CEO Ron Rudzin is a longtime Westporter, and which last summer opened a store across from the Sherwood Diner — will be the official provider of mattresses and bedding for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
The cardboard bed frames used in Tokyo in 2020 and Paris last year — selected for sustainability and, some reports said, to collapse under the weight of 2 people enjoying more than sleeping — did not win any medals. (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)
You can get the same bedding as Olympians, right next to Walgreens. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)
=================================================
It may rain tomorrow.
But the Westport Farmers’ Market is still on: Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot.
“Farmers don’t head inside when it rains,” the Market says. “Produce does not press pause — nor do we.
“While we might not have the perfect sunny day, we have the perfect array of food for your kitchen.”
In addition to 36 vendors, the market features “Get Growing” — educating kids on the value of shopping local through art projects and activities — plus music and more.
A little rain won’t stop the Farmers’ Market. (Photo/Quinn Fitts)
Vibrant Health — the Westport-based Vibrant Health premium superfood formulas and dietary supplements company — will not officially launch its rebrand until January.
But the new logo design and assorted branding has already won 3 awards.
None of it would have happened though, without Startup Westport.
The town’s public/private organization for tech, innovators and entrepreneurs has a strong networking component.
At one meeting, Ted Schachter introduced Vibrant Health owners Ted and Paige Parker to CJ Yeh from Cinda Media, and their design team.
The design “conveys growth, innovation, and the synergy between science and holistic well-being.” It even includes a new typeface.
More than 3,200 videos were created this year, from around the world. Students could choose to focus on Child Well-being, Rainforest Ecosystems or Sanitation, with at least one idea for a sustainable solution.
The BMS youngsters filmed “The Scoop on Poop.”
Olivia says, “We love animals, and we knew that deforestation was destroying a lot of their homes in the rainforest.”
Research was inspired by Chloe’s grandparents, who had a notebook from Thailand made from elephant feces.
Workshop instructor Sean Murphy helped his students bring their ideas to life. Click on the video below to see their work.
There’s another for sale. It’s $5,000. If interested, email carladdisonswanson@yahoo.com.
===============================================
Yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club guest speaker was a familiar face: Westport Library executive diretor Bill Harmer.
He spoke about the effect of technology (research queries are up, because Google does not have all the answers), the success of Verso Studios and Verso University, and an exciting new creative project to be announced soon.
Westport Library director Bill Harmer, at the Rotary Club. (Photo/Alec Foege)
=================================================
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — a swallowtail butterfly — was found warming itself by the side of the Sherwood Diner.
And finally … in honor of the sculpture for sale by Carl Addison Swanson and JoAnn Miller (story above):
(There’s no question about it: “06880” relies on reader support. Here’s the answer: Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Here’s the follow-up: Thank you very much!)
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
