On Sunday, 7 inches of rain inundated Westport. All over town, businesses and homes were flooded.
Among the hardest hit neighborhoods: Compo Beach. Homeowners on Soundview Drive, the 4 side roads and Bradley Street are used to storms. Many have recently raised their structures.
But this time was different. The drains that typically overflow — but eventually carry water away — may not have worked.
As water coursed through his home, a resident emailed 2 of his Representative Town Meeting members, Kristin Mott Purcell and Chris Tait. He copied “06880.” He wrote:
High tide was nearly 4 hours ago. The flood waters have receded exactly 2 inches since then.
I know, because it is very easy to mark the water levels on our (and our neighbors’) garage doors.
Two inches of receding water, as we approach low tide.
Flooded street near Compo Beach, a few hours after the rain ended.
When storm drains are clear, and the drain pipe “flaps” and pumps are working at Compo Basin, water pours into the storm drains with a vengeance after a flood event like this.
It is easy to see the “vortex funnels” above every storm drain, even if the water is 2 or 3 feet deep. And the water dissipates very quickly.
There is no vortex above the storm drains tonight. The water has nowhere to go.
I will give you 10-to-1 odds we will find out the town did not open the floodgates at the marina or Gray’s Creek. They probably also did not turn on the pump that helps move out the water.
Fairfield Avenue, after the storm passed. Water at one point was 3 feet deep, a neighbor says.
The town is not responsible for freakish, heavy rainfalls or the sudden accumulation that results from them. But we surely should have a drainage system that suits one of the wealthiest towns in the country, and that has experienced this problem time and again over the past few decades.
I want to work with both of you to get to the bottom of this issue this week. We have sustained a massive amount of damage, much of which could have been avoided or minimized, if we could have gotten the water out of our house quickly.
Instead, it has been nearly 9 hours that we have had more than a foot of water inside our living spaces. That is unacceptable.
“06880” spoke with RTM member Chris Tait yesterday. He says:
“I talked to (Public Works director) Larry Roberts. He told me the pumps were running, but the rain backed up the system. They’re 12-inch pumps, that work over a 24-hour period. Not right away.”
Tait says Roberts told him that standing water on Bradley Street — visible Monday — was caused by debris clogging the pipes.
The RTM member will meet with DPW engineers, to see whether a drain by the Minute Man monument — broken several years ago — was fixed properly.
Flooding on Bradley Street at Fairfield Avenue, Monday afternoon.
Compo Beach resident Jim Hood insists, “It doesn’t add up.”
He says he stood on top of a storm drain during the storm, and could not see “even a ripple. If water was going down even slowly, I’d see it. For 7 or 8 hours, there was nothing.
“Then suddenly, it went down quickly. It defies the laws of physics.”
“06880” reached out to 1st Selectman Kevin Christie for comment. As of last night, he had not responded.
And learning that one damaged bridge may disrupt downtown traffic for up to 18 months.
The small, almost unnoticed, span on Jesup Road linking Imperial Avenue with the police station, Jesup Green, the Westport Library, Levitt Pavilion and Taylor parking lot — and a way to avoid the parallel Post Road — was severely damaged.
It’s early in the process. Further study is needed. But repairs — if necessary — could take up to a year and a half.
More information will be available as the process unfolds.
Small bridge on Jesup Road, at Imperial Avenue.
Off Church Lane, plenty of work remained.
And in Deadman Brook by Myrtle Avenue, a dumpster remained stuck.
(Photos/Sal Liccione)
While the rest of the town had dried out, however, significant standing water remained at Bradley Street and Fairfield Avenue.
Here’s a shot from yesterday afternoon, 24 hours after the rain ended:
This is a survey only. Submitting it is not a claim or request for assistance, and does not guarantee that disaster relief or other recovery assistance will be available.
Information collected will help state and local emergency management officials document the extent of the damage, and determine whether the State of Connecticut may be eligible for post-disaster programs through FEMA and/or the Small Business Administration.
Finally: CBS News sent a reporter to Westport, to document the cleanup effort. Interviewees included Sal Liccione and Morley Boyd — and a photo from our “06880” blog. (Hat tip: Jeff Mitchell)
After nearly 3 hours of debate, the issue of lights on athletic fields came into clearer focus last night.
Planning & Zoning Commission members discussed — in detail, with civility and plenty of back and forth — applications for 70-foot poles at PJ Romano and Wakeman Fields.
PJ Romano came first. The site behind Saugatuck Elementary School has elicited little public comment, because there are already temporary lights, and it is on well-traveled Riverside Avenue.
Traffic was more of a concern than noise. Commissioners insisted on a 9 p.m. weekend cutoff; no multi-team tournaments, and use restricted to Westport sports and Parks & Recreation Department activities. A straw vote showed 5 of the P&Z members in favor of the application.
Those and other restrictions will be clarified in writing by P&Z staff, and presented to the Commission on October 5 for a vote.
Temporary lights are currently used at PJ Romano Field. Here, a Westport PAL football team practices. (Photo/James Kingsley)
Wakeman — adjacent to Bedford Middle School — has elicited greater concern by neighbors.
Commissioners discussed the need for low-level lighting to ensure safety of players and parents once the lights are off; for audio limited to varsity games only (no practices), and to end once the game begins; a prohibition on multi-team tournaments; limited hours of usage, and the addition of several trees along the perimeter.
Another straw poll showed a majority in favor of the proposal, with those conditions. P&Z staff will clarify those conditions, and it too will be presented for an October 5 vote.
The Wakeman B turf field (left-center, above) is the only one that would be lit. (Drone photo/David Pogue)
Speaking of the Playhouse: Last night marked the first Script in Hand play reading of the season, with the premiere of “The Next Best Thing.”
The cast and crew. Front row (from left): Mia Dillon, Ayla Kopp, Tina Johnson, Hauako Stepper, Cindy Cheung, Grant Shaud, Alicia Thompson. Rear: Director Mark Shanahan, playwright Matt Hoverman. (Photo/Kelsey McFarland)
This year — as every year — LobsterFest is sold out.
So this is not a plug for tickets. It’s just an interesting update.
On Saturday, Compo Beach will welcome 1,500 guests for Westport Rotary Club’s annual event.
In celebration of its 15th year, Rotarians recently presented 1st Selectman Kevin Christie with an official LobsterFest hat.
From left: 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, LobsterFest chair Denise Thomas, Rotarian extraordinaire Rick Benson (in lobster suit), president Ron Henkoff, and LobsterFest entertainment chair Robert Augustyn. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
As the afternoon nears, Rotary offers heartfelt thanks to the Westport community for its overwhelming support.
LobsterFest’s sponsors have been exceptionally generous. This year’s event will raise over $400,000.
Special help comes from the Westport Fire and Police Departments and Emergency Medical Services, and many children’s entertainers (some work gratis).
The success of LobsterFest depends on over 200 volunteers. A few spots remain. Click here to sign up.
In other Rotary news, they’ve announced the winner of their lobster-naming contest.
It’s … Clawdia!
Congratulations to Vienna Tranquillo of Oxford. She earns a $25 gift certificate to The Sandbar at Compo Beach.
For 27 years, “Booked for the Evening” BOOKED for the evening has served as
the Westport Library’s signature celebration of ideas, achievement and community.
What began as a fundraising event has evolved into a cherished tradition that reflects the heart of the Library’s mission: fostering a love of learning, inspiring curiosity, and expanding our understanding of the world.
Each year, BOOKED brings together Library supporters, town leaders, cultural advocates and others for a night honoring a man or woman whose work has
made a lasting impact on society.
Tom Brokaw, E.L. Doctorow, Billie Jean King, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Patti Smith, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Addario, Ron Chernow, Alan Alda, Justin Paul and Itzhak Perlman are just some of the honorees over the past quarter century.
This year, the Westport Library honors award-winning director, actress, choreographer, producer and cultural icon Debbie Allen. The event is Wednesday, October 28.
She is perhaps best known as dance instructor Lydia Grant in the 1982 series “Fame.” She was also the show’s principal choreographer.
Allen has earned 3 Emmys, a Golden Globe, 5 NAACP Image Awards, a Drama Desk honor, the first-ever Astaire Award for Best Dancer, 4 honorary doctorates, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
She has choreographed the Academy Awards 10 times, directed and produced episodes of “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal” and “A Different World,” and was the creative force behind Steven Spielberg’s “Amistad.”
Appointed by President George W. Bush as a Cultural Ambassador of Dance, Allen spent more than 15 years as an artist-in-residence at the Kennedy Center.
She’ll be in conversation with Shonda Rhimes. The noted TV creator, producer, author, CEO of global media company Shondaland — and a Westporter — was the 2022 “Booked” honoree.
Business leaders, professionals and community members are invited to he next Executive Network Series event.
VTB Financial Group and Prestige Cabinetry & Design host the September 29 gathering (6 to 9 p.m., Rizzuto’s). It’s a benefit for Ann’s Place, a non-profit providing support and resources for individuals and families impacted by cancer.
Pianist Marc Copland headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., VFW Post 399; dinner service at 6:45). Bassist Yuriy Galkin, pianist Steve Johns and saxophonist Greg Wall join in.
Maryssa Miller sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, and writes: “Every sunny afternoon, this little guy comes out of his home and perches in the same exact spot on the stone wall in my backyard to get some sun.
“Then he goes right back to wherever he lives. He’s been doing this since early August.
“I’m going to be moving in town soon. I’ll miss seeing him every day!”
And finally … in honor of tonight’s Westport Country Playhouse “Year in Anatevka” (story above):
(If I were a rich man … I wouldn’t have to suggest that readers help support this blog they read every day. But I’m not, so I do. Here goes: Please click here. And thank you!)
Westport Parks & Recreation Commission chair David Floyd has lived here for over 30 years.
A football, basketball and track athlete at Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda, Maryland, and a University of Maryland graduate, he helps oversee so many local amenities: our beaches, Longshore, athletic fields, parks, and much more.
The other day, David came to the Westport Library, for an “06880” podcast chat. Click here or below, for an inside look at some of the most special places and programs in town.
Longtime Bridge Street resident Werner Liepolt has watched the Cribari Bridge debate closely.
In the other direction from his home, another story is unfolding. A proposal to demolish the one of the 2 office buildings at 55-57 Greens Farms Road — and replace it with a 250-unit apartment structure — 30 percent of them “affordable” under state statute — is working its way through town bodies.
The Conservation Commission will discuss the plan at a public hearing on Wednesday (September 16, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium and livestream).
Liepolt — a recognized consulting party for the Cribari Bridge project — wrote to 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, Representative Town Meeting members and other officials:
TC Greens Farms LLC has proposed demolishing the approximately 60,000-square foot office building at 57 Greens Farms Road and replacing it with a 250-unit multi-family residential building, with 30 percent of the units designated as affordable housing.
The reported development cost is approximately $100 million, and the proposal has now entered Westport’s municipal review process.
55 Greens Farms Road — the building closest to the street — would be demolished, and replaced with a new apartment structure.
This location is directly relevant to Cribari Bridge Project 158-214. Greens Farms Road is part of the residential corridor connecting I-95 exits 18 and 17 by way of Bridge Street, the Cribari Bridge and Riverside Avenue.
Traffic generated or redistributed at 55–57 Greens Farms Road therefore has the potential to affect the traffic baseline, route choices and cumulative conditions surrounding the bridge and the Bridge Street Historic District.
I am not suggesting that all traffic generated by 250 apartments should simply be treated as new traffic. A responsible analysis must compare the proposed residential use with the actual or reasonably anticipated occupancy and traffic generation of the office building being removed. Nor is this an objection to the affordable housing component of the proposal.
Bridge Street traffic. (Photo/Werner Liepolt)
However, a development of this magnitude on a road feeding the bridge corridor cannot reasonably be ignored while the Federal Highway Administration and Connecticut Department of Transportation prepare a revised Environmental Assessment. The traffic analysis should examine:
Existing and projected daily and peak-hour traffic from the property
The assumptions used for the office building being demolished
Anticipated distribution of residential traffic toward I-95 exits 17 and 18 and toward the Cribari Bridge
The interaction between this development and each bridge alternative under consideration
I-95 diversion and navigation-app routing through Greens Farms Road, Bridge Street and Riverside Avenue
Construction traffic, emergency access and pedestrian and bicycle safety
The combined effects of foreseeable development and changes in the bridge’s weight, geometry and accessibility to larger vehicles.
This is particularly important because altering the Cribari Bridge could itself change driver behavior and route selection. A development analysis that assumes the present bridge, and a bridge analysis that omits the proposed development, could leave the public with 2 incomplete studies and no examination of their combined consequences.
Those consequences could include additional congestion and cut-through traffic, changes in the volume and composition of vehicles, increased noise and air pollution, pedestrian and cyclist hazards, and effects on the residential character, setting and integrity of the National Register-listed Bridge Street Historic District.
Aerial view of 55-57 Greens Farms Road. The street is at the bottom. It feeds into Bridge Street and the Cribari Bridge (left, off the image).
These matters are relevant to the revised environmental review and, where historic properties may be affected, to the continuing Section 106 consultation.
I respectfully request that:
This development proposal and this correspondence be entered into the Project 158-214 administrative and consultation records
FHWA and CTDOT obtain and review the developer’s traffic-impact study and underlying assumptions
The revised Environmental Assessment disclose whether and how this development is incorporated into its traffic baseline and indirect and cumulative-effects analysis
Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office consider whether resulting traffic conditions associated with the bridge alternatives could affect the character and setting of the Bridge Street Historic District
Consulting parties receive a written response explaining how this new information will be addressed before the revised Environmental Assessment is completed.
No single agency should review only its isolated portion of these projects while overlooking the corridor-wide consequences created by their interaction. The public deserves a current, coordinated analysis before decisions become effectively irreversible.
(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all. Submissions may be sent to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this hyperlocal blog with a tax-deductible contribution, please click here.)
Every 9/11 ceremony at Sherwood Island State Park — the site of Connecticut’s official memorial — is special.
Yesterday’s was especially moving. It marked the 25th anniversary of that terrible day.
The site, just a few yards from Long Island Sound, is where the Twin Towers could be seen, on a clear day. It was also readied for use as a staging area on September 11, 2001. Sadly rescue operations were not needed.
The names of 161 men and women with Connecticut ties — all killed that morning — are engraved in the memorial.
State officials and victims’ families spoke yesterday. Afterward, Andrew Colabella captured the scene as roses were laid on top of the stone of Westport resident Jonathan Uman. and a visitor took in the beautiful sunset.
(Photo/Andrew Colabella)
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During 12 years at the helm of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, Matthew Mandell has turned the business organization into a well-rounded civic force.
He has helped launch 14 Slice of Saugatuck festivals, 10 Westport Dog Festivals, dozens of Supper & Soul shows, COVID concerts, the Great Westport food competitions, Restaurant Week, monthly Business After Hours networking, the Halloween Window Painting contest, and this year’s “Your State, Your Business speaker seriess.
The Chamber raised and donated over $100,000 to local non-profit organizations like Homes with Hope, TAILS and many others.
During his tenure, membership in the Chamber nearly tripled.
Yesterday, Mandell announced he is retiring as executive director and president. His resignation is effective at the end of the year.
.Mandell will continue to serve on the Representative Town Meeting (RTM0, and Earthplace board of trustees. He will also advise the Chamber on upcoming events.
“It has been an exceptional experience, one that has been an honor for me to be a part of. When you love the subject matter, Westport, it’s easy to put your heart and soul into something like this. But it’s time to find a new path with different opportunities and go from there,” he says.
Paul Lebowitz, chair of the Chamber’s board of directors, says, “Matthew’s greatest contribution may be the events he created that brought our business community and the people of Westport together, ,,,Matthew was our chief cheerleader, tireless promoter, and advocate. His enthusiasm was contagious. His commitment to the organization, the businesses we represent, and the town has been remarkable, and we are grateful for everything he has given.”
NOTE: The Westport Library hosted TEDx talks a dozen or so years ago. This event is not affiliated with the Library. The planning committee is led by executive director Sholeh Janati.
Westport Animal Control officer Peter Reid follows up on yesterday’s Roundup story about illegal shellfishing in Westport waters. He writes:
“I have tried to orchestrate a state ENCON (Department of Energy & Environmental Protection) environmental conservation police) response in past years, to little avail.
“One of my big concerns was that these people were harvesting juvenile diamondback terrapins. There were anecdotal reports of turtles in the harvesters’ buckets last summer.
“I have been in touch with the DEEP turtle biologist, and folks at the Western Connecticut State University terrapin conservation initiative. They are willing to help us.
“Perhaps we are too late this year. But I encourage citizens who see this kind of activity to contact Westport Animal Control, reporting time and scope of activity. We will see if we can get this stopped.”
Nighttime shellfishing at Old Mill Beach. (Photo courtesy of Connecticut Centinal)
The Democratic Town Committee has nominated Mike Durkin as its new registrar of voters. He would replace longtime registrar Deborah Greenberg, who is stepping down.
The DTC says Durkin is “a longtime Westporter with experience in strategic marketing, sales and business operations. Mike’s work spans fields including technology, e-commerce, sports marketing and entrepreneurial ventures.” smoothly.
The DTC will vote oon his nomination at their meeting on Tuesday (7:30 p.m., Zoom). Registered Democrats may make nominations from the floor.
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between September 2 and 8.
A 24-year-old Bronx man was charged with larceny of a motor vehicle and operating a motor vehicle under suspension, after an officer on routine patrol was alerted by a license plate reader of a stolen Kia Forte traveling eastbound on Post Road West. He was held on a $10,000 bond.
A 55-year-old Norwalk man was charged with 2 counts of violation of a protective order, after twice coming to the victim’s residence despite a court order of protection. He was released on a $75,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to obey stop sign: 7 citations
School zone violation: 3
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
Texting while driving: 2
Distracted driving: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
Improper use of markers: 2
Assault: 1
Breach of peace: 1
Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
Speeding: 1
Traveling unreasonably fast: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Failure to drive to the right: 1
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1
Failure to renew license: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without proper instructor: 1
Laurie Gilman, a retired editorial and research director, has lived in Westport for 15 years. An avid reader, she recently helped establish the Winslow Book Club.
She has a significant other of 40 years, many beloved nieces and nephews, and an 8-year-old pug named Charley who was taken in when he was a year old. Charley walks her around Winslow Park nearly every day. Laurie writes:
We are less than a week away from a vote by the Planning & Zoning Commission on Text Amendment #874. It would alter the zoning laws at Winslow Park in order to build a “dogport” — a fenced area for dogs.
A survey, petition and letters show this is unpopular among dog owners and citizens who want to preserve open space in Westport.
Winslow Park (Photo/Ron Henkin)
The only convincing argument for this project is for dog safety. Gaps remain in the park’s perimeter, where dogs can reach busy roads. Very well thought out, detailed plans have been submitted to the P&Z website that would remove those gaps, and cost Westport less in terms of money and open space.
In addition to ignoring the good ideas to fence the park, a dogport has its own problems with dog safety — for example, dogs being more aggressive in an enclosed area. So we’re pretty sure this isn’t about the issue of dog safety. Far from it.
The amendments explicitly states, “By concentrating off-leash activities into a designated area the proposal helps reduce conflicts between park users, improves predictability for families and walkers, and promotes responsible pet ownership through rules, regulations, and accountability.”
How is it possible to “concentrate” all unleashed dog activity into a dogport when the majority of dog owners at Winslow want to walk with their dogs? Only if rules are changed that force dog owners into the dog port.
Dogs, on and off leash.
A rule requiring dogs to be leashed throughout the park could happen. But that won’t go far enough, because dog owners will still want to walk their dogs on leash. What is more likely is taking the extraordinary step of denying dog owners access to the rest of the park.
“The proposal helps reduce conflicts between park users.” We think the dog owners at Winslow have a very good relationship with all the other users of the park: kids riding bikes or scooters or sleighing during the winter; parents walking their children who stop to pet our dogs, and people of all ages out getting their walk in.
We have never witnessed a conflict between park users without dogs and those with dogs. We have seen conflicts between dog owners. If you were to go to the park today you might find posters of a woman whose dog attacked another dog, and did not take responsibility for the aggressive behavior from her dog.
We are all aware of this incident, and are on the lookout for the owner and her dog if they return. We are a community that acts to keep the park peaceful and protect all its users.
Winslow Park community. (Photo/Cat Malkin)
Finally, a dog port “promotes responsible pet ownership through rules, regulations, and accountability.” There are already rules and regulations posted at Winslow, and the vast majority of owners follow them. Keeping dog owners accountable seems to imply bad behavior of dogs. That can happen in or outside of a dog port.
We all value the beautiful open space and trails at Winslow. By passing this amendment and “concentrating off-leash activity,” dog owners are rightfully concerned that their access to the rest of the park will end.
It’s not a stretch to imagine other uses of the park will replace us. What those may be should concern all of Westport residents who want to protect the unique and cherished open area that is Winslow.
Laurie Gilman
On behalf of the Friends of Winslow Park
(“06880” Opinion pages are open to all readers. Email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To help support this hyper-local blog, please click here.)
From athletes and environmentalists to dog lovers, deli patrons and anyone interested in Saugatuck, Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting has something for everyone.
“06880” readers are not shy about telling us when someone is up to no good.
Illegal tree cutting, inconsiderate e-bike riders, ill-mannered dogs in supermarkets — we hear it all.
But somehow we missed what seems to be the biggest story of the summer.
At least, according to the Connecticut Centinal.
The oddly spelled site — which Media Bias/Fact Check calls “an extreme right-biased imposter website (rated) Questionable based on the promotion of propaganda, conspiracy theories, pseudoscience, poor sourcing, and false claims” — recently published a “BREAKING EXCLUSIVE: Illegals Raping Natural Resources In Westport, Cops Don’t Care, Town Doesn’t Care, State Doesn’t Care.”
The story (by “Staff Writer”) says, “There are a lot of people in Westport, CT who profess to care for the environment, or is that just a control mechanism to gain political power?
“Because, no one cares in Westport when their environment is being destroyed as long as its [sic] being done by illegal aliens. By the hundreds. Every Night. Till there is nothing left.”
After noting state and town shellfishing regulations — including permits, size and sunrise to sunset limits — the site claims: “illegal night harvesting is happening at a massive scale in Westport, and across the state.
“‘Unbelievable, isn’t it? Take a ride by old Mill and look at the Spanish guys with Minor’s [sic] hats on, responded one resident we asked who lives in the Compo Beach area when asked if what was going on nightly is legal.
“There’s no blue crabs left. No steamers. No Clams. No mussels.
“Another resident of Old Mill told us, ‘There’s nothing left, they stripped the place clean.'”
The story concludes, “It would be nice if all those environmentalists in Westport actually cared. Mother nature is screaming for help.”
The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters — founded by Westporters Julie Belaga and Russ Brenneman 26 years ago — has chosen another local for a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Jonathan Steinberg, Westport’s outgoing state representative — will be honored October 9 (6 p.m., Elm City Club, New Haven).
CTLCV calls him “a leading voice in the Connecticut General Assembly on clean energy, environmental protection, and public health for more than 15 years. He has played a key role in major environmental efforts, including the plastic bag ban, fracking waste moratorium, GMO labeling, and microplastics legislation, while consistently advancing renewable energy, solar power, and utility accountability.
“As House chair of both the Public Health Committee and the Energy & Technology Committee, Jonathan helped shape modern energy policy and led the charge on the State Water Plan to ensure Connecticut’s waters remain protected.”
He is one of 4 awardees. The other are State Senator Tony Hwang, State Representative Mary Mushinsky and New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker.
The latest reports from Lyman, Ukraine are somewhat encouraging.
Russian forces have not succeeded in capturing Westport’s sister city. In fact, Ukrainian troops have pushed Russians back in some areas north of Lyman.
But Russian forces continue offensive operations. Fighting could intensify this fall. (Hat tip: Robert Gerrity)
Recent damage in Lyman. (Photo/Tyler Hicks for New York Times)
Jerry Garcia can’t be at VFW Post 399 this Saturday, September 12. (He died in 1995.)
But the next best thing — The Mystery Train Band — will pay tribute to the Grateful Dead icon. They also play Bob Dylan, The Band, The Beatles, Van Morrison and other classic artists.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; the music starts at 7:30. Tickets are $10, at the door or online. Pizza, hot dogs and drink specials are available too.
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Kawa Ni’s very popular “Paint + Sip” events continue this month.
Artists — of any and all levels — are invited to the restaurant’s rooftop garden. There, Lauren Smith leads them in a special event, overlooking the Saugatuck River.
For $56 you get painting supplies, an 8″x10″ canvas, and Kawa Ni fare. Wine, sake and cocktails are available for purchase.
The Service League of Boys (SLOBs) is Staples High School’s largest club.
As the school year begins, they’re looking for new members. Students and parents are welcome.
The organization promotes leadership through community service. You’ve probably seen them helping out at many events, all over town.
Students and parents are invited to a meeting next Tuesday (September 15, 7:30 p.m., Staples cafeteria). For more information, click here, follow them on Instagram @shsslobs, or email president@shsslobs.com.
Jazz at the Post kicks off its fall season tomorrow (Thursday, VFW Post 399; dinner service from 6:45 p.m.; shows at 7:30 and 8:45).
Pianist Janice Friedman presents a new program, including creative touches on music by Paul Simon, Billie Eilish and Amy Winehouse, as well as her own originals.
Friedman has played with saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall since the late 1980s. They’ll be joined by bassist Dave Kingsnorth and drummer Mike Campenni. Click here for tickets, and more information.
And finally … in honor of Jerry Garcia’s (tribute) appearance at the VFW (item above):
(It’s no mystery: “06880” relies on support from readers like you. If you appreciate these daily Roundups — or anything else on our hyper-local blog — please click here to donate. Thank you all!)
In sustaining objections to Old Mill Grocery & Deli’s use of their 107-year-old property on Hillspoint Road last February, Superior Court Judge Dale Radcliffe said that allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages and outdoor dining in residential zones was “an impermissible expansion of the existing nonconforming uses.”
However, according to attorneys for OMG’s owner, the Soundview Empowerment Alliance, his ruling implied that a different regulation could pass legal muster.
While lawyers pursue an appeal of the Superior Court ruling, they have asked the P&Z to consider a new text amendment.
On September 14 (6 p.m., Zoom), commissioners will hear a proposal from Eric Bernheim to create a new “Food and Beverage Planned Development District, for lots used as grocery stores, delicatessens and Retail Food Establishments; Restaurants and Cafes and taverns.”
This would allow the P&Z to create floating zones for outdoor eating and the sale of alcohol in “pocket zones.” It would apply to establishments like OMG, Gruel Britannia and the Country Store on Wilton Road.
As the 25th anniversary of 9/11 nears, Christ & Holy Trinity Church invites the community to a screening of an important documentary.
Filmed over 5 years, years, “The Trees: Growing a Forest at Ground Zero” shows life returning to Ground Zero. It includes the story of the Survivor Tree, a damaged callery Pear that was the last living thing to come out of the wreckage, and is now an enduring symbol of resiliency for New York City.
The showing (Sunday, September 13, 11 a.m.) will be followed by a conversation with the producer and director, Westporter Scott Elliot.
A new Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand play reading series begins September 14 (7 p.m.). It could not be more timely.
“The Next Best Thing” is a comedy about the battle between an outspoken, inappropriate grandmother and the “kinder, gentler” AI android duplicate her family builds to replace her when she dies. This play asks the question even ChatGPT can’t answer: Should we embrace what’s difficult about the people we love — or remember only the Next Best Thing?
Looking for a fun afternoon, with competition, food, camaraderie — and a chance to help support a new initiative?
A Better Chance of Westport’s inaugural Cornhole Tournament is set for Saturday, October 3 (11:30 to 3 p.m., Longshore’s Evan Harding Point).
Proceeds will help launch ABC’s College Scholarship Fund. It’s a way to expand their commitment to the scholars they sponsor and support during their time at Staples High School, as they move on to the next chapter of their educational journeys.
There are many ways to help Homes with Hope. And not all of them take place at the men’s and women’s shelters, or the food pantry.
On Saturday, September 26 (8 to 11 a.m., 19 Church Lane), residents are invited to volunteer to pack essential care items. It’s a great family activity — and an excellent way to meet like-minded, caring people.
Click here to register. The event is sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association, FLB Law, David Adam Realty and Willo.
But Long Island Sound is still warm. So was yesterday’s weather.
A good-sized crowd took advantage of both, enjoying the late-summer holiday weekend.
(Photo/Pam Kesselman)
(Photo/Ed Simek)
The sun will be out this afternoon, and tomorrow. A high of 71 is predicted for today. Tomorrow it will warm up to 78.
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Hollywood Nights brought great energy — and great Bob Seger tunes — to the Levitt Pavilion last night.
Summer vibes continue this coming week with 3 free shows: ever-popular DNR (the almost all-doctor rock band; Thursday, September 10, 7:30 p.m.), in their annual tribute to EMS and first responders; the equally popular Sweet Remains (Saturday, September 12, 7:30 p.m.) and the Brian López Electric Trio (Sunday, September 13, 7 p.m.).
Channeling Bob Seger at the Levitt. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
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Former Westport resident William Luedke IV died August 20. He was 74.
After growing up in Schenectady, New York and Danville, illinoise, Will’s family moved here in 1968. He spent 7 summers as a Compo Beach lifeguard, rising to director of beaches in 1975. Compo was always one of his favorite places.
Will graduated from Williams College in 1974 cum laude, with honors in history. At Vanderbilt University School of Law, he was a member of the Law Review. He met Carolyn, his wife of 47 years, there.
Will joined Bracewell & Patterson in Houston, and helped build their financial institutions practice. For many years they were one of the nation’s most active firms in back mergers and acquisitions.
He was also a trustee at Wayland Academy, his alma mater. He also served on the board and executive committee of the Independent School Chairperson’s Association.
Retirement in 2019 offered Will more time for his vast book collection. He also loved to cook, run (he was Bracewell’s race winner for 8 years), play golf, grow herbs, collect art and play guitar.
Will is survived by his wife Carolyn; daughter, Hannah (Siddharth), brother Fred Fritz of Dallas; sister Ann Luedke Lobdell of Stonington, Connecticut; and 3 nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held October 1 (11 a.m.First Presbyterian Church, Houston).
In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made in Will’s memory to Wayland Academy, (Attn: Advancement Office, 101 N University Ave., Beaver Dam, WI 53916).
Will Luedke
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Nature takes many forms, as our “Westport … Naturally” photo feature often shows.
Sunil Hirani spotted this colorful arrangement on Soundview Drive:
(Some things are worth waiting for. But supporting “06880” is not one of them. We rely on readers to keep us going. Please click here to help. And, um, we hope you’ll do it today. Thank you!)
A reminder: Tomorrow (Sunday) is our special “Day in the Life of Westport” day.
Residents of all ages are invited to take up to 3 photos of any kind, illustrating life in Westport. They can be taken anywhere in town, at any time from midnight to 11:59 p.m.
Suggestions include neighborhoods, work, traditions, celebrations, acts of service, family life, recreation, arts, faith — whatever happens on a Westport Sunday.
Submitted photos will become part of an online community archive and digital image library (and featured on “06880”).
Organizers also plan to create a large photographic mosaic incorporating every submission, with selected images potentially featured in a public exhibition and/or commemorative book.
Photos must be taken tomorrow only, then submitted by midnight to dayinthelife2026.artcall.org. The submission website will accept photographs only on the day of the event.
“A Day in the Life of Westport” is a collaboration between the Artists Collective of Westport, the League of Women Voters Westport, the David T. Langrock Foundation, and “06880.”
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Homes with Hope is an avid supporter of “A Day in the Life of Westport.” And to show how many people are involved, they will pose for a photo at 2 p.m. tomorrow, outside the Gillespie Center men’s shelter.
They’ve invited members of the Westport Rotary and Sunrise Rotary Clubs. All volunteers — those who prepare and serve meals, those who donate to the food pantry, etc. — are welcome to join in the photo. Town officials will be there too.
It’s a great way to demonstrate the town’s support for Homes with Hope.
And to be part of the historic “Day in the Life of Westport” too.
Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place will be filled with Homes with Hope staffers and volunteers tomorrow.
Last month, Paulie Veneto began pushing an airline beverage cart in Boston.
The retiree — who was working on September 11, 2001 — is honoring the memory of his colleagues who were killed that day by pushing the cart 210 miles, to Ground Zero in New York.
This is the 5th tribute walk for “Paulie’s Push,” to raise awareness of their heroism in the face of unimaginable danger.
Once again yesterday, the Westport Fire Department offered a welcome pit stop for lunch and hospitality, at their Post Road East headquarters.
Yesterday, his route took him through Westport. He stopped briefly at fire headquarters on the Post Road.
After a brief ceremony, and a meeting with firefighters, he was back on his trek.
At Eno Lane on Saugatuck Avenue, resident Mike Sharpe brought neighbors together to show support and appreciation — and have the honor of helping push the cart.
Carolyn King reports, “It has become a meaningful tradition, and a beautiful reminder of the importance of coming together.”
Paulie will reach in New York by Friday.
Paulie Veneto (white shirt), his cart, and Westport firefighters and officials.
Paulie Veneto and 1st Selectman Kevin Christie push carts down Riverside Avenue.
Hers was at the dump across the Saugatuck River. With the Taylor parking lot dump closed by court order (neighbors complained — that was a thing 70 years ago too), and nowhere to put the quickly growing town’s garbage, the Westport Woman’s Club agreed to allow limited dumping on landfill next to their Imperial Avenue clubhouse, where a new parking lot was being built.
In response to negative public opinion, sportscaster and Westport resident Win Elliot organized an October 1957 event. Vanderbilt presided; there was a grand piano, and a sterling silver tea set.
Elliot said, “At a well-run dump you can hold a tea or a formal ball. There is absolutely no smell.”
A year later, that dump was filled to the height specified in the agreement. The town moved its dump to a site off Saugatuck Avenue.
The Imperial Avenue parking lot has had many uses since: for commuters, as the site of the Remarkable Theater, the Westport Farmers’ Market, and of course the Westport Woman’s Club’s signature event, the Yankee Doodle Fair.
A hat tip to longtime WWC official Dorothy Curran, for setting the record straight.
And not dumping on us for the error.
Imperial Avenue parking lot — and former dump — built on landfill adjacent to the Westport Woman’s Club (white building, center right).
Yesterday’s Westport Sunrise Rotary meeting went to the dogs.
Brute — a Belgian Malinois, and member of the Westport Police Department K-9 corps — was the star of the morning meeting.
He graciously let his handler, Corporal James Loomer, do the talking.
Loomer joined the WPD in 2010. With Brute wagging his tail encouragingly, Loomer discussed his background in K-9 operations, patrol, and narcotics and explosives detection.
Corporal James Loomer, and Brute. (Photo/Katie Augustyn)
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Michal Amzallag has spent her career in banking law, financial crimes and commercial negotiation.
Then she had kids. And she realized no one was teaching them about money. “Understanding money at 8 instead of 28 is the biggest head start anyone gets, and almost nobody does,” she says.
So she is building the courses she kept looking for.
“Compound Kids” is 8 weeks of hands-on money skills, for youngsters age 8 to 13.
They use real money — part of the registration fee — and real activities. There are no worksheets or lectures; just hands-on activities.
There will be 2 courses this winter, at the Westport Library, divided by age (8-10, and 11-13). Click here for more information.
Michal Amzallag
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Speaking of money: We normally would not mention an upcoming meeting of the Pension Investment Committee and 401(k) and Defined Contribution Plan Investment Committee.
They do important work, sure. But it’s not the headline-grabbing, dog park-, athletic field lights- and Saugatuck redevelopment-type work of, say, the Planning & Zoning Commission.
Still, one agenda item from their next session caught our eye: “Aristotle Discussion.”
We got very excited. Would the Pension Investment Committee and 401(k) and the Defined Contribution Committee actually sit around discussing the Greek philosopher’s thoughts on formal logic and syllogisms?
Nope.
Turns out Aristotle is a family of mutual funds.
We learn something new every day.
Or, as a famous Greek philosopher once said, “All men by nature desire to know.”
Aristotle, the mutual funds guy.
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Speaking of meetings: The Blight Prevention Board meets September 10 (7 p.m.; Zoom).
Mihali made a triumphant return to the Levitt Pavilion last night. Their 11th show at the outdoor theater may have been their best yet.
Tonight (Saturday, 7 p.m.), Hollywood Nights brings their acclaimed Bob Seger Experience to Westport. Click here for tickets.
Summer vibes continue this coming week with 3 free shows: ever-popular DNR (the almost all-doctor rock band; Thursday, September 10, 7:30 p.m.), in their annual tribute to EMS and first responders; the equally popular Sweet Remains (Saturday, September 12, 7:30 p.m.) and the Brian López Electric Trio (Sunday, September 13, 7 p.m.).
This year’s official Connecticut 9/11 ceremony — held annually at Sherwood Island State Park’s memorial to the victims of that horrific day — is Wednesday, September 9. It starts at 5:30 p.m.
“06880” reported an incorrect date earlier. The event is held every year prior to September 11, to give families and friends a chance to attend the ceremony at Ground Zero on that date.
The 9/11 Living Memorial at Sherwood Island State Park.
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The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee continues its hiatus.
The September meeting has been canceled, for the 9th consecutive month. The DPIC last met on December 11, 2025.
In January, 1st Selectman Kevin Christie removed Randy Herbertson as chair. A replacement has not been named.
In early July, Christie told “06880,” “we’re aware of the issue and are looking into it.”
Part of the DPIC Master Plan, when it was live on the town website.
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Just 4 days remain before “A Day in the Life of Westport.”
This Sunday (September 6), every Westporter can help create a unique portrait of the town. We’ll do it by taking a photograph that captures one real moment from our day.
Whether it’s a sunrise at Compo Beach, breakfast with family, volunteering at a community event, walking the dog, cheering from the sidelines or enjoying a quiet moment at home, every image will become part of a collective portrait of our town.
“A Day in the Life of Westport” is a collaboration between the Artists Collective of Westport, the League of Women Voters Westport, the David T. Langrock Foundation, and “06880.”
Inspired by the classic Life magazine photo essays documenting “A Day in the Life of America,” the project invites residents of every age to photograph one moment on Sunday, then submit it online with a brief caption describing what the image means to them.
Each participant may submit up to 3 shots, each accompanied by a brief caption describing the moment. For more information and submission details, click here or email Westportphoto2026@gmail.com.
Prospect Gardens — the spectacular 9-acre arboretum-style Greens Farms space featuring flowers, plants — is open to public twice a year. The next date is Saturday, September 19 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). The Staples high School Jazz Ensemble plays at 10:30 a.m.
New this season: “en plein air” artists, sitting in the gardens with paints and easels.
Among other treats, visitors can enjoy tall yellow helenium sunflowers, white Queen Anne’s lace, purple asters and evergreens; the very full vegetable garden; apples, quince and grapes in the orchards; water lilies and lotus ponds in the frog ponds.
Like any good town gathering place, Jesup Green hosts a variety of events. Some are political. Some are social.
On September 19, it’s cultural. The Japan Society of Fairfield County sponsors its annual Aki Matsuri fall festival (1 to 4 p.m.; marketplace opens at 12:30).
The family-friendly fest features taiko drum performances, a Japanese folktale dramatization, martial arts, ikebana flower arranging, calligraphy, J-pop dance, traditional Obon dancing, and Japanese-related activities.
New this year: group calligraphy, and a food truck selling matcha, other specialty teas and baked goods.
Speaking of Jesup Green: Since it opened 5 years ago, the Westport Book Shop across the road has featured artists of the month. They exhibit their work, and greet fans at a reception.
This month’s guest artist won’t do that.
George Hand Wright has been dead for 75 years.
But he’s perhaps the most famous Westport Book Shop artist ever. The longtime Westport resident was acclaimed nationally during his life (1872-1951).
Wright was a painter, illustrator and printmaker, and one of the early founders of Westport’s artistic community. His work appeared regularly in Scribner’s, Harper’s, Collier’s and The Saturday Evening Post. The Library of Congress holds over 100 of his illustrations.
The selected work is on loan from Ed Gerber. The Wright expert lives in (and has preserved) the artist’s former Westport home, on Cross Highway. It is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Wright’s nephew Frank Boylan was Gerber’s godfather.
A reception for Gerber, and Wright’s exhibit, is set for September 16 (6 p.m.). Copies of “George Hand Wright: An Artist’s Life Examined” — written by Kirsten M. Jensen, and underwritten by Gerber – will be available for putchase.
Ed Gerber, at the Westport Book Shop’s George Hand Wright exhibit.
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Westporters are an active bunch. Which means our bodies sometimes break down.
Westport Regenerative Orthopedics & Longevity is a new care facility in Westport.
Drs. Michael Cantor and Ilana Etelzon offer non-surgical options and advanced recovery technology for joint, tendon, muscle, back, neck and sciatic pain; sports and overuse injuries, and chronic and lingering issues.
Treatments include Regenexx procedures, PRP injections, bone marrow concentrate, MLS laser therapy, TenJet tendonitis treatment, hormones and peptide therapy, and IV vitamin drips.
Positive Directions — The Center for Prevention and Counseling — has a new executive director.
Kim DiBella-Farber, who has spent over 20 years leading nonprofit organizations in Connecticut and nationally, returns to the state where she began her career.
For 55 years, Positive Directions has offered mental health, substance prevention and peer support services. For more information, click here.
Kim DiBella-Farber
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Long Island Sound sparkles, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.
And — thanks to the Mobi-mat — people with mobility issues can make it all the way down the sand, to the shore.
And finally … speaking of the Prospect Gardens open house (story above):
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