Category Archives: Media

Roundup: Bad Bad Drivers, Burgers, Mandarin School …

Posted on June 30, 2022 | 1 comment

Most of the day, I slide my bad/entitled parking photos near the end of “06880.”

More important info comes at the top. By the time you get to a photo of some self-centered numbskull taking up 3 spaces, hogging half a sidewalk or whatever, you’re ready for a diversion. Sure, they’re selfish, self-satisfied SOBs, but they’re not really hurting anyone.

Well, this cretin could have:

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

Think about it.

This “person” — who somehow is licensed to drive a motor vehicle — ignored a very large “Do Not Enter” sign 100 yards or so back.

Then he (it was a young guy) drove past vehicles facing the other direction on both sides, plus at least one very large arrow. also pointing the other direction.

And then he walked away.

Words fail, at a time like this.

Except for one final thought: It’s a pretty shitty parallel parking job, too.

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The Westport Library’s soaring, flexible and well-used indoor space is called the Trefz Forum.

Most people who enjoy the pyramid seating, giant screen and state-of-the-art sound system have no idea who Christian J. Trefz — the man for whom it’s named — is.

That will change on Saturday, July 9. His new memoir — “The Right Side of the Hamburger” — will be celebrated with a book launch at a private party. It’s available for sale at the Library the next day, and on Amazon.

In association with The Legacy Project USA — a Westport company specializing in documenting and writing life stories for people who want to preserve and tell their history — Trefz spent over a year working on his book.

It tells the tale of how he and his brother became successful. The son of German immigrants, Chris and Ernie grew up in New Haven. They learned important lessons about family closeness, hard work, and determination.

The brothers purchased their first McDonald’s franchise in 1964. Their empire now encompasses over 50 McDonald’s restaurants throughout Connecticut and New York.

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In each issue, the bi-monthly print/digital Civilian Magazine profiles 10 or so influencers, in areas like sports, business, politics, fashion and pop culture.

Last year, local photographer Jenae Weinbrenner was assigned to a shoot at  Nile Rodgers’ Westport home.

With COVID raging, there were no agents, assistants or creative directors around. For an hour, Nile and Jenae talked about life, music, and their love for this town.

“As a photographer, you never get that kind of one-on-one time with a celebrity,” Jenae says. “This was special. I’m so grateful I got to experience it. He was the kindest person — and generous too.”

The other day, the publication retweeted the story. Jenae realized she had never shared it with her “06880” friends and neighbors.

Click here for the magazine (it’s behind a paywall).

Nile Rodgers (Photo/Jenae Weinbrenner for Civilian Magazine)

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Happy Panda Mandarin School opened 12 years ago, in the basement of a Weston home.

It grew quickly, and relocated to Wilton.

Now it’s moved again: to 2nd floor space in Westport’s Nash’s Plaza (179 Post Road West).

Classes resume September 1: Chinese HSK (1-6 levels), Chinese Made Easy (1-4 levels), Writing and Homework Help.

For more information click here, email info@hpmandarinschool.org, or call 203-291-9228. (Hat tip: Felicia Catale)

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One Chinese door opens, another closes:

Open Rice — the Post Road takeout place between the Sherwood Diner and Earth Animal — is shuttered.

Loyal customers are disappointed. Unfortunately, there must not have been enough of them.

Open Rice is closed.

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Wheels2U Westport is expanding.

As of July 5, the Westport Transit District’s on-demand, group ride, door-to-train shuttle service will soon include from Hiawatha Lane to Saugatuck Shores in the westernmost area of Westport, and Westway Road and Parsell Lane in the east.

Now, virtually all of the town is covered.

Reverse commuters can also use the service to travel between the trains and their place of employment in Westport. 

Wheels2U can also be used to enjoy dinner at Saugatuck restaurants.

Riders using the Wheels2U Westport app request a pickup  between 5:45 and 10 a.m., and 4 and 9:30 p.m., for rides between the Westport or Greens Farms train platform and their front door. Pickups for trips to the stations should be requested 20 minutes before you would leave to drive there. The $2 fare is paid via the Wheels2U app.

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

Wheels2U’s Saugatuck Shores expansion. Click on or hover over to enlarge.

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Friends since middle school, Dixie Webb O’Brien, Jeff Ruden, Kim Hamer and John McCarthy are planning their Staples High School Class of 1982 reunion — with a twist.

In addition to getting together after 40 years (!), they wanted to give back to the town they still live in, and love.

Classmates are encouraged to donate to Staples Tuition Grants. Already, they’ve raised $2,000.

‘82 grads can reserve a spot for the August 6 event at Saugatuck Rowing Club, plus Friday and Sunday gatherings —  and/or make a donation to the class tuition grant — via email :dixiewebbobrien@gmail.com

Staples Class of ’82 co-chairs (clockwise from upper left): Jeff Ruden, Dixie Webb O’Brien, Kim Hamer, John McCarthy.

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Longtime Westport resident Janet Bangser died earlier this month, at the age of (her family says) “don’t even.”

An only child born in 1928 in New York City to Jules Rutstein, a dentist, and Esther Klar Rutstein, assistant to the producer at Radio City Music Hall, she attended Horace Mann School for Girls, then earned a BA in English and American literature from Brown University in 1949.

A voracious reader, one of her first jobs was to write script synopses for MGM.

International travel was a dominant theme throughout Janet’s life; she made overseas trips from an early age. She and her husband Bill Bangser visited many countries on 6 continents, including several extended stays in Europe with their 4 children. Janet and Bill made lifelong friends around the world.

The family moved to Westport in 1961. When her children were grown Janet entered the travel industry, as an agent for Minute Man Travel. In 1978 she formed Pathfinder’s Travel, a full-service agency in Westport. For the next 40 years, Janet and her staff used first-hand knowledge of travel destinations to serve corporate and vacation travelers. Janet remained active in the business well into her ninth decade. She and Bill continued their frequent travels, often with Westport friends.

In addition to her business and motherhood, Janet served as president of the local chapter of the National Council of Jewish Women.

Janet was predeceased by Bill, her husband of 67 years. She is survived by her children: Andrew (Barbara) of Westport; Paul (Liz) of Bethesda, Maryland.; Jill (Jeff) Boynton of Newington, New Hampshire. and Dan (Jennifer) Bangser of Norwalk; 8 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren, and her sister-in-law Rita Bangser of Somers, New York.

Janet’s family says, “we will forever miss the devoted matriarch of our family, her intellect, her love of travel (and good wine!), her cooking, her eternally positive outlook, and her entrepreneurial spirit.”

Burial was private. All are welcome at a memorial service on July 23 (10 a.m., Westport Library). In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Westport Library.

Janet Bangser

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Most “Westport … Naturally” photos are striking — but straightforward.

This one asks a question: Can you spot the bee?

Thanks for this great submission go to 15-year-old Benji Porosoff!

(Photo/Benji Porosoff)

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And finally … in honor of the top story above:

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted in Media, Obituaries, Restaurants, Staples HS, Transportation

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“06880” Podcast: John Videler

Posted on June 27, 2022 | 2 comments

As much as I enjoy writing “06880,” I know many readers come for the photos.

And in a constellation of stellar “06880” photographers, John Videler shines very, very brightly.

The other day he put down his camera, headed to the Westport Library, and chatted about his craft.

I spoke with the 2nd-generation Videler Photography owner (his father started the business) about how he works; the variety of his clients; his favorite shots in Westport, and (of course) what it was like to grow up here.

Click below for our interview. To see some of John’s “06880” work, click here.

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Posted in Arts, Media

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“Gloria”: Singer’s Ode To An Oyster Boat

Posted on June 24, 2022 | 10 comments

Chris Bousquet is a singer-songwriter. He led High Lonesome Plains, and has performed with Roger McGuinn, John Sebastian, Asleep at the Wheel, the Nields, the Turtles and J. Geils.

A decade or so ago, he read about Westport oysterman Alan Sterling, and his boat Gloria (named for an old girlfriend). Bousquet calls it “a profoundly moving story of grief, continual struggle, and the simple triumph of carrying on.”

Gloria (Photo/Bruce McFadden)

Having grown up in Clinton, Connecticut, Bousquet always found the sea to be “ethereal and transcendent.” Staring out at the water, he believes in the interconnectedness of all things. So when Sterling noted in the story that a gull might be Gloria watching over him, Bousquet understood.

The sea can be warm and caressing, but also brutal. “Alan was well aware of the cold and raw, but it didn’t blind him to the beauty,” Bousquet says. Inspired, he reworked an old song into a new one: “Gloria.”

Bousquet never met Sterling in person. He thought about sharing the song with him, but felt it was presumptuous. Sterling died on July 4, 2014. Bousquet wishes he had told the oysterman what an inspiration he’d been.

“He made me appreciate my life — and my wife! — even more,” Bousquet says. “I don’t mean to sound trite. But he reminded me to head out on my proverbial boat, and sail on each day.”

Bousquet calls the song “my plywood skiff version of Alan’s oyster boat.”

Alan Sterling culling his oysters.

Gloria remained in Gray’s Creek after her owner’s death. For years it served as a memorial to Westporters: of a rugged individual, a centuries-old tradition, and our ties to the sea.

But over the past year, Gloria deteriorated. The old oyster boat is near collapse.

“Gloria, ” this spring. (Photo/Bruce McFadden)

Yet she — and Alan Sterling –live on.

Connecticut Public Television and PBS have produced a documentary called “Oyster Heaven.” It documents the history of oystering in our state’s waters, from Native American times through the industry’s collapse, and on to its current renaissance.

Screenshot from “Oyster Heaven.”

Much of the documentary focuses on Norm Bloom, and his Norwalk-based Copps Island Oysters.

The song “Gloria,” though, serves as the film’s theme. It’s the perfect choice.

Chris says, “I give this song with love and gratitude to the people of Westport — and Alan and Gloria.”

(To view “Oyster Heaven” — and hear “Gloria” — click here.) 

(Like PBS, “06880” relies on support from the public. Please click here to contribute whatever you can.)

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Looking back, Media

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Roundup: Mariangela Lisanti, Maserati, Staples Class of ’52 …

Posted on June 23, 2022 | 10 comments

In 2001, Mariangela was a Staples High School rock star.

The senior won the national Siemens Westinghouse Science & Technology Competition. And the Intel Science Talent Search (where she met President Bush). Each came with a $100,000 scholarship (!).

But she did not stop there. Mariangela was captain of the Staples math team, founder and captain of the engineering team, concertmaster of the Chamber and Symphonic Orchestras, and the recipient of honors in Italian and Spanish (both of which she is fluent in.) Of course, she was valedictorian.

Then, at the Intel International Science & Engineering Fair in San Jose, California, the Harvard-bound graduate was awarded the Glenn Seaborg Nobel Prize Visit Award — earning a trip to the Nobel ceremony in Stockholm.

So what is Mariangela up to these days?

She earned a Ph.D. from Stanford in 2010, then completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Princeton Center for Theoretical Science. She’s been on the physics faculty at Princeton University since then.

A theoretical particle physicist by training, her research focuses on the nature of dark matter. Mariangela’s interdisciplinary work incorporates ideas from astrophysics and data science. Currently, she’s focusing on how variations of the Cold Dark Matter paradigm affect galactic and sub-galactic scale observables.

So why today’s “06880” shout-out?

She’s just been named a Simons Foundation Investigator. This too is a very big deal.

The Simons Investigators program supports outstanding theoretical scientists in their most productive years, when they are establishing creative new research directions, providing leadership and mentoring junior scientists.

Simons Investigators are appointed for 5 years, renewable for another 5. Each Investigator receives research support of $100,000 per year. An additional $10,000 per year is provided to the Investigator’s department

Congratulations, Mariangela. You continue to make Staples, and Westport, proud.

Keep rockin’ the world! (Hat tip: Steve Stein)

Mariangela Lisanti

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Speaking of Staples: Sunday’s “06880” Roundup gave a shout-out to the Class of 1962. They celebrated their 60th year reunion at the Ned Dimes Marina.

But they’re mere children, compared to the Class of ’52. Let’s hear it for them!

Nine alums just enjoyed their 70th (!) reunion at Rive Bistro — not far from their old high school, on Riverside Avenue. (Today it’s Saugatuck Elementary).

Ed Backus — a 1948 graduate — joined them, making them feel very young.

The class has met every 5 years since graduation day: Friday the 13th, 1952. “Our Staples ties are strong!” says Jess Thompson Huberty.

They are indeed. Hail, Staples! Hail, Class of ’52!

Staples High School Class of 1952 at Rive Bistro: Seated (from left):Lu List Morris, Susan Stokes. Middle row: Roxanne Gette Martin, Barbara Hendricks Chamberlain, Jess Thompson Huberty, Sonja Messelt Ziluca, Don Switter, Ed Backus. Rear: Bill Gault. Sending regrets: Bev Breault, Lynn Lucke Lutkin, Steven Miller, Concetta Palazzo Fedak, Mary Ellen Kottgen McKenna.

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The Maserati owner figured he’d be okay on Sunday. His car stuck just a yard or two past the “No Parking” sign on Hillspoint Road, coming from Compo Beach toward Old Mill.

The sign is there for a reason. It’s a dangerous spot. This happened next:

(Photos/Jerry Kuyper)

But that’s not the end of the story.

As of yesterday afternoon — 72 hours later — the very expensive convertible was still there.

(Photo/John Richers)

And debris from its body still littered the road.

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Speaking of parking, how about this trifecta near Gaetano’s?

The driver is:

  1. Facing the wrong way
  2. Next to a “No Parking” sign, which is right by a …
  3. Fire hydrant.

Must have been a deli emergency!

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The Westport Journal has a new executive editor. Thane Grauel succeeds Jarret Liotta in the top post at the year-old online news site July 1. Liotta will focus on photography and video projects.

Grauel has been a reporter at the Westport News, managing editor at the Westport Minuteman and editor of The Hour, among other publications.

“The news business is so different now,” he told “06880.” “At the Westport News we had 5 guys covering Town Hall, plus sports, business, entertainment and real estate. The chains have gobbled everything up. People are not being served like before.”

However, Grauel says, “Westport is one of the best-covered towns in Connecticut, online. People here are really engaged. They want to know what’s going on.”

Grauel is a 4th-generation Westporter, though after Kings Highway Elementary School his family moved to Milford. He graduated from the University of Connecticut, and is a Navy veteran.

Thane Grauel (Photo courtesy of Westport Journal)

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Speaking of writing:

Bilingual journalist and writer Camila Vallejo earns the first-ever Writer-in-Residence prize from Fairfield County Story Lab, the shared workspace in Saugatuck for creative types.

Vallejo covers housing and social justice issues for Connecticut Public Radio and WNPR, and is a member of Report for America. She has been a part-time producer for All Things Considered (read and hear some of her stories here).

The FC Story Lab’s Writer-in-Residence prize is for early-career writers. Vallejo’s residency will enable her to work for free at the Story Lab in Saugatuck. The Lab will install a new media suite, so she can record radio pieces there. While she reports statewide — including pieces on housing disparities in Fairfield County — she often files stories from a closet at home.

“Unfortunately, this isn’t unusual today,” says FC Story Lab co-founder Carol Dannhauser.

“Many media companies have trimmed their newsrooms and all but eliminated their bureaus. This means that young reporters, especially, can’t experience the alchemy that happens in a newsroom, where people bounce ideas off of each other and offer suggestions when stories hit a dead-end.”

During her 6-month residency, Vallejo will host 2 events for students and recent graduates interested in a career in journalism or media.

Camila Vallejo

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So how many jellybeans were in the Staples Tuition Grants contest?

41,330. The winning guess of 41,472 — off by just 142 — was by Emerson Watkins. In second place (41,501) was Sean Wagner. Both will receive gift certificates to their favorite Westport restaurant.

Hundreds of people entered the contest. Guesses ranged from 540 to 751,000.

STG plans to continue the contest next year. It’s another great (and fun) way to help raise some of the $400,000 that was given in scholarships to Staples seniors and alumni this year.

As you can see, there were 41,472 jellybeans here.

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Last summer, dozens of Fleishers Craft Butchery employees at 4 locations walked off the job after CEO John Adams removed Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ Pride signs that workers had put in windows at the Westport store.

Though they had been there for months, a customer had only recently complained.

After the walkout, most employees quit. The shops remained closed until March, when one in Brooklyn reopened. Now it — the final store in what was once hailed as “the mecca of the good-meat movement,” with “rock star butchers” — has closed too.

New York magazine says that after the Westport incident — and the effects of COVID on, particularly, the Upper East Side location — “Fleishers never again found its footing.” Though owner Rob Rosania apologized and offered employees raises to return, the company was cooked.

With the final closing, you can put a fork in Fleishers. (Click here for the full New York magazine story. Hat tip: Tom Prince)

The Fleishers signs. (Photo courtesy of Chloe Sorvino, for Forbes)

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One store closes, another opens: Westport’s newest business is Wash The Dog. Angela Koza’s “self-service dog wash” just opened at 375 Post Road West.

There are 6 stainless steel tubs, so people can wash — and blow dry — their dogs. Full service grooming also available.

The grand opening is this Saturday (June 25). Arf!

Wash the Dog!

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Speaking of creatures, Dave Lowrie writes:

“I’ve been waiting to capture the right ‘Westport … Naturally’ photo. I think I have it: an early visitor to my compost pile.”

Bingo!

(Photo/Dave Lowrie)

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And finally … in honor of Mariangela’s galactic work (story above):

(Across the universe — well, across “06880” — readers contribute to keep us going. Please click here to help.)

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Posted in Education, Local business, Media, Staples HS, Transportation

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Big “06880” News: We’re Tax-Exempt!

Posted on June 20, 2022 | 14 comments

In just a few months since becoming a non-profit, “06880” has been more than just a blog.

We partnered with the Westport Library on an educational evening about Ukraine. We helped arrange a meeting between one of the Little Rock 9 civil rights pioneers, and students in Westport and Bridgeport. We sponsored the 1st-ever downtown Holiday Stroll.

And now that the IRS has granted us official tax-exempt status, we’re poised to do even more.

For 13 years, readers’ contributions have generously funded “06880.” Donations support all aspects of the blog, including writing, web hosting fees, software, and more.

Now — with donors receiving tax deductions, plus opportunities for corporate matching grants and foundation funds — we can begin hosting events; developing more community-wide educational, entertainment and inspirational programs; hiring writers for fuller coverage, and supporting worthy causes.

Thanks for your support so far. We hope our tax-exempt status eencourages other individuals, plus foundations, to help. Click here to donate. Click here for more on “06880”‘s mission, and our board of directors.

PS: Mark your calendar: Thursday, July 21. That’s our annual “06880” blog party, at Compo Beach.

And — thanks to our non-profit status — this year the town is allowing a limited number of out-of-towners (without beach stickers) in for free. See you there!

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Posted in Economy, Media

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Roundup: Compo Beach Lots, Korean War Vets, Horseshoe Crabs …

Posted on June 15, 2022 | 10 comments

For years, Compo Beach guests have been greeted by a gorgeous display of flowers and shrubs, at the main entrance directly opposite the Soundview lot.

Sometimes they’re greeted too by small signs saying “Lot Full.” They’re hard to read, and traffic backs up as drivers try to figure out what to do next.

This year, there should be less confusion. A large electronic sign at the entrance will announce how much space is available in the Soundview, main and daily ($$$) lots.

I’m sure people will still stop and ask the gate attendants all kinds of questions, and try to talk their way in despite seeing “0” availability.

At least they’ll have plenty of warning.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Across America yesterday, the red-white-and-blue flew in honor of Flag Day.

At the Senior Center, meanwhile, flags — and an honor guard, and dignitaries — honored Westport’s Korean War veterans.

Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, state Commissioner of Veterans Affairs Thomas Saadi and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker presided at the luncheon and ceremony.

Pete D’Amico described his experiences in that 1950s conflict. Alexander Boboc recalled a fallen comrade. Other veterans like Bill Vornkahl, Bob McCarthy and — in uniform — Tom Lowrie shared stories too.

The ranks of Korean War veterans are diminishing quickly. Yesterday’s recognition was truly important. (Hat tip: David Lowrie)

(From left):VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 3999 quartermaster Phil Delgado, Navy Lt. JG (ret.) Tom Lowrie. and fellow Westport resident Bob Tirrerno — local commissioner to the State Veterans Affairs office — look at a photo of Lowrie’s radar aviation squad.

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Summer arrives Tuesday. But you can get a jump on it Saturday.

That’s the first of 2 “Summer Outdoor Shopping Days.” Main Street from the Post Road to Elm Street will be closed, for better strolling (and strollers). Brooks Corner will be closed too, for vendors. Church Lane is already closed, for the summer.

Merchants on upper Main Street and Elm Street will also participate.

Some stores will offer discounts. Others will highlight special merchandise.

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Horseshoe crabs are very weird creatures. (I know: So are humans.)

Living on Long Island Sound, we’re used to them. But most of us don’t have much horseshoe crab knowledge (beyond “don’t step on them”).

This Sunday (June 19, 3 p.m., Sherwood Island State Park Nature Center), Friends of SP hosts a talk by Dr. Jennifer Mattei. The Sacred Heart University biology professor and director of Project Limulus (named for a horseshoe crab genus) will discuss why they’re important for the health of the Sound — and for your own good health.

The family-friendly session includes a walk on the beach, to look — very carefully — for spawning horseshoe crabs.

Dr. Jennifer Mattei and friends.

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It’s college scholarship time.

And the Westport Woman’s Club is doing its part.

As it has for many decades, the organization recently gave grants to graduating Staples High School seniors.

This year’s total was $36,000. Recipients include Chloe Manna (Emily Duvoisin Scholarship), Tatiana Dragun (Lea Ruegg Scholarship), Juliette Savarino (Emily Fuller Scholarship), Sam Betit (Most Active Member Scholarship, in honor this year of Suzan Murphy), and Olivia Pace, George Kocadag and Malachi Evans (WWC Scholarships).

Funding for the grants comes in part from the Yankee Doodle Fair. The annual event runs tomorrow (Thursday) through Sunday, at the WWC Imperial Avenue grounds.

Attending the ceremony were Congressman Jim Himes, State Senator Will Haskell, State Representative Stephanie Thomas, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and Staples High School administrators and counselors.

Westport Woman’s Club scholarship winners, with government and school officials.

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You never know what you’ll find on Cablevision Channel 78.

The educational access channel is the home for town meetings, board schedules — and videos produced in the Westport public schools.

Two of those earned honors in the Area 9 Cable Council contest, for their public service announcements. The prize: an “Eddy” (Ed Access Trophy).

Kings Highway placed first in the Elementary School category, for “Think Before You Print” (discouraging printing unnecessary copies of anything).

Kings Highway winners (from left): Kylie Dorfman, Presley Levin Samantha Frank, Adrienne Bihl, Alexander Sheefel, Grey Shugrue.

Staples took second place in the High School division, for “After.”

Staples winners (from left):Jane Weil, Ava Waldman, Jacob Baker. Not pictured: Cooper Tirola

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To plan ahead: Here’s the Levitt Pavilion schedule for June:

  • June 19: Michael Franti & Spearhead (limited tickets remaining)
  • June 21: Comedy Night #1
  • June 22: Children’s Series launch (Josh Lovelace/Young Folk)
  • June 23: Isle of Klezbos
  • June 24: Isabella Mendes Bossa Nova Project
  • June 25: James Langton’s New York All-Star Big Band
  • June 26: Danny Jonokuchi & the Revisionists
  • June 28: Queer + Quiet: An Evening with  Treya Lam
  • June 29: Children’s Series (Falu)

Free tickets are available on the Levitt Pavilion website, and at the box office window 2 hours before show time.

A small portion of the Pops Concert crowd last Friday. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Live theater is back at the Westport Country Playhouse.

And so is their London Theater Tour.

In April, audiences returned to the historic local institution. In October, the WCP hosts a week-long, theater-filled trip.

Managing Director Michael Barker and Artistic Director Mark Lamos led similar trips in the past, with great success. This time, Lamos will pick 5 of the most exciting shows, plus non-theater activities. Past trips have included tea with a cast member, a discussion with a London theater critic, and backstage tours.

For more information (and to book a spot), click here.

The West End Theatre

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UPDATE: The mistake below is on me. Molly Alger sent 3 photos; I misunderstood her. She knows the difference between raspberry and milkweed. I don’t. My apologies.

Molly Alger sends this photo and report, from the Baron’s South walking path:

“The raspberries are ready to bloom. They must be checked daily if you want to save any from the birds and deer.”

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally … as raspberries (above) and strawberries start to ripen:

(“06880” would not exist without reader contributions. Please click here to donate!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Entertainment, Environment, Media, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Beach Rules, Gun Violence, Dog Poop …

Posted on June 4, 2022 | 15 comments

The cost of a Westport beach sticker for out-of-towners — $775 — has been the subject of heated debate, everywhere from the pages of “06880” to the halls of the State Capitol.

This past wee, radio listeners around the state heard about it.

“Ethan & Lou” discussed it on their i95 show. in typical 2-radio-host-trying-to-engage-listeners style.

The station put a variation of the riff on their website too. In the context of complaints about Connecticut’s “rocky (not sandy)” beaches, they mentioned both the expense of Compo, and the many rules posted on the town website. (Hey, guys: The rules are posted at the beach, too.)

The website complains: “No Alcohol!? Can’t bring my dog? Can’t listen to music? No hooch, no pooch and no Scooch? Sounds un-American.”

Of course, alcohol is permitted on South Beach (unlike most state beaches). The “music” ban refers to “amplified music, including bands and DJs” (though they seem to be okay, upon request to Parks & Rec). As for “Scooch” — well, at least it rhymes.

Click here for the full story — including a link to the “Ethan & Lou” segment.

There are definitely lots of rules at Compo Beach.

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The Remarkable Theater continues to be a remarkable resource for Westport.

This Tuesday (June 7, 8 p.m.), they’ll screen a special show for the soon-to-graduate Staples High Class of 2022.

The 71-minute video includes never-before-seen footage of their 4 yeas at school.

Tickets are only $5. Click here to reserve a spot; then pile your friends into a car and head to the Imperial Avenue parking lot!

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Yesterday was National Gun Violence Awareness Day.

The timing — coming after a slew of mass shootings — was propitious. But in a cascade of bad news, the day itself might have been missed by many.

One Westporter, however, marked the occasion on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge:

(Photo/Dina Upton)

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“06880” has posted photos previously of 1 or 2 plastic poop bags left in otherwise pristine parks, or on people’s lawns and driveways.

But this image — sent by David Brant, executive director of Aspetuck Land Trust which oversees (among many other properties) Haskins Preserve — seems almost perverse. The sign about dog waste — and that there is no “Poop Fairy” — are literally inches away.

Is it a “Candid Camera” stunt? Part of an elaborate psychology experiment?

Or are Westporters just dumping on us?

Whatever the reason: It’s not funny.

Whoever you are: Shame on you.

And just remember: Whatever goes around, comes around.

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The Staples High School baseball team plays in the state “LL” (extra large schools) quarterfinals today (Trumbull High School, 2 p.m.).

But win or lose, they’re already champions.

On Thursday — the day after their 2nd-round upset of higher-ranked Amity-Woodbridge — the Wreckers collected thousands of dollars of cleats, bats and other equipment.

They donated it to Bluefish Travel Baseball, a program in Bridgeport.

The 2022 Staples High School varsity baseball team. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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A recent pre-Memorial Day story about a Westport connection to an American soldier saved by a German guard during World War II was fascinating.

But Tom Feeley — who recounted the tale — had misremembered the name of the soldier, whom he met and befriended at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.

Tom called him “Mike Brody.” His name was actually Samuel Meyer Brody.

And — because this is “06880,” where “Westport meets the world” — there is another local tie. Sam Brody was longtime resident and RTM member Dick Lowenstein’s 3rd cousin.

Here is a photo of Sam (left) and Dick at the Senior Center. Sam died the next year, at 96. Click here for a full obituary.

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Lifelong Westporter and former firefighter Stanley Prackup died on Wednesday. He was 87.

One of 8 children, he graduated from Staples High School in 1953. He played baseball there, and was a sharpshooter in its Rifle Club.

Stanley enlisted in the Navy after high school, and served on the USS Valcour and Intrepid.  He was awarded the Navy Good Conduct Medal.

After the navy he attended the University of Connecticut.

He was a postal carrier for several years before joining the Westport Fire Department. He served as a firefighter for 20 years, until 1988. He also owned his own landscaping business.

Stanley and his wife Joan built a home here, and lived in it for over 40 years. Devoted to his religion, he was happiest in his garden, and spending time with family and friends.

He was predeceased by his brothers, Frank, Michael and George, and sisters Rose, Barbara and Alice.

Stanley is survived by his wife of 58 years, Joan Prackup; daughters Brenda Prackup, Linda Prackup-Desautels and Sandra Prackup; grandson Luke Desautels; sister Virginia Fiordelisi, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial mass will be held Monday (June 6, 10 a.m., St Luke Church), followed by interment at Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road. Click here for a livestream of the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Cancer Research Institute.

Stanley Prackup

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Ordinarily this bad parking job at the Taylor Lot near the Westport Library would not be “06880”-worthy.

But the car has been there since at least early last week.

With the window open, people have left angry messages for the owner.

If it’s yours, please claim it. If there’s a problem, please contact the police!

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David Fiore sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, noting: “As seen from our kitchen window at breakfast. A chippy enjoying the view, having his own breakfast on our weeping cherry tree berries.”

(Photo/David Fiore)

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And finally … speaking of chipmunks:

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“06880” Podcast: Danielle Dobin

Posted on May 31, 2022 | 1 comment

Nearly every Westport issue — affordable housing, traffic, a changing retail environment, trees — involves development, and the changes Westport undergoes, embraces, accepts, rejects or otherwise undergoes.

Which means they all involve, in some way and at some point, the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Chair Danielle Dobin sees it all. The other day, I chatted with her in the Westport Library’s Verso Studios for the latest “06880” podcast. She spoke candidly and insightfully about the pieces of the P&Z puzzle we all see — and those most of us never think about.

Click below for our podcast:

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Roundup: Harry Styles, James Corden & Staples …

Posted on May 31, 2022 | 7 comments

The other day, James Corden and Harry Styles set out on the streets of Brooklyn. They were searching apartments for a location to shoot a music video Styles’ new album. They had just 3 hours to do it.

Luckily, they found Hadley Ward, Isabel Perry and Caroline McKenchnie. All are 2015 Staples High School grads, living together. (Katie Settos — another roommate — was away.)

The British duo sure found the right people. The apartment was decorated with photos of both Styles and Corden, to their delight (and the young women’s slight embarrassment).

It’s a great video — even without the Westport connection. With it, this becomes an instant classic.

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The great vibe from yesterday’s Memorial Day parade still lingers.

The winners of the float contest are feeling particularly good. Congratulations to:

  • Best Youth Organization Float: Suzuki Music School
  • Best Community Organization Float: Westport Old Fire Truck
  • Most Colorful Float: VFW Auxiliary #399
  • Special Pep Award: Junior Colonial Fife & Drum Corps.

And the winner for Best Overall Float is …

… I can’t believe there’s even any suspense …

… the Y’s Men of Westport/Weston.

Their float honored Mary Pickersgill, Francis Scott Key and the national anthem.

I’ll have to check the records, but I think the Y’s Men have won Best Overall Float every year since Francis Scott Key was hanging out at Fort McHenry.

The Y’s Men’s float. You can’t see it in the photo, but there was “smoke,” reminiscent of the 1814 battle that inspired Francis Scott Key to write our national anthem. (photo/Dan Woog)

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Not to raise a big stink, but an “06880” reader sent this photo:

The reader sent a note, too: “I would like to acknowledge the anonymous donor/s who selflessly, when no one was looking, left the precious doggie gift, wrapped by the side of Valley Road.”

Another photo — not suitable for a public blog — was left “unwrapped” at the end of the reader’s driveway.

“But really,” the reader adds, “you shouldn’t have.”

The reader added this suggestion: a database of each dog’s DNA, included as part of the dog license. “The mere existence of such a database would immediately put an end to this behavior,” the reader says.

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Carl Addison Swanson’s latest book, “Ipso Facto” — another in his Ian Fletcher legal thriller series — has just been published.

There’s another Westport angle, besides the author being a Staples High School graduate: It’s based on a notorious murder case here, from the 1960s.

The Amazon listing says: “When a hedge fund billionaire is murdered in a tony suburb of Connecticut, the handyman Black is the first to be arrested. Blue blood attorney Ian Fletcher to the rescue?”

Swanson has written over 50 books. In addition to the Fletcher novels, they include the Hush McCormick series, Tug Christian thrillers, Scooter mysteries and Justin Carmichael nostalgic memoirs. Click here for his website.

Click here to order “Ipso Facto” from Amazon.

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Aspetuck Land Trust daisies provide a pop of color for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … I first heard of Ronnie Hawkins when I saw “The Last Waltz.”

But the Arkansas-born rockabilly artist — who spent most of his life in Canada, and influenced generations of musicians with his outsized, energetic music and performing style, and was a friend of Bill Cliinton’s — led quite a life beyond The Band.

He died Sunday, at 87. Click here for a full obituary.

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Roundup: Senior Records, Family Day, “The Scream” …

Posted on May 19, 2022 | 1 comment

We all know how great Westport is.

This morning (Thursday) at 11:30 a.m., everyone in the tri-state area will find out too.

Well, everyone watching “New York Live,” anyway.

The WNBC Channel 4 show features our town. The long (for TV) segment includes scenes of Compo Beach, Longshore, downtown and much more, plus interviews with 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, La Plage executive chef Frederic Kieffer, and Savvy + Grace owner Annette Norton.

Of course, “New York Live” is not live. It’s clear from the not-quite-spring foliage that the segment was taped a couple of weeks ago. That’s show biz!

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The other day, “06880” reported that Westport artist Norma Minkowitz shattered 3 US records at the National Senior Games in Fort Lauderdale.

Now she’s demolished a fourth.

On Tuesday, Norma ran the 1500 meters in 8:35 — a full 2 1/2 minutes faster than the prior record in her 85-89-year-old age group. It won the 80-84 division too! (Hat tip: Jeff Mitchell)

In 2016– age 79 — Norma Minkowitz led a pack of much younger runners.

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Lynsey Addario continues to provide graphic — and important — images of the war in Ukraine to the world.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times photojournalist — a 1991 Staples High School graduate — contribute a series of images to yesterday’s story, headlined “In Ukraine, Gruesome Injuries and Not Enough Doctors to Treat Them.”

Click here to understand the toll the fighting has taken. It is not easy to see. But it would be worse to look away.

The boots of a slain soldier named Ihor (right), next to tennis shoes belonging to another soldier, killed a day earlier. They were placed outside a hospital, for soldiers who might need them. (Photo/Lynsey Addario)

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It took 4 months. But author Heather McGhee finally delivered her Martin Luther King Day address last night.

The author of “The Sum of US: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together” spoke at the Westport Library. The town’s 16th annual event — sponsored by the Westport/Weston Interfaith Council and Clergy, Westport Country Playhouse and TEAM Westport — had been postponed by COVID.

The program included songs from the Bridgeport Boys Choir, and a dance by the Regional Center for the Arts.

Heather McGhee, at the Westport Library. (Photo/David Vita)

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Lucia Wang is editor of Staples High School’s STEM Journal.

But her writing is earning notice far beyond Westport. The junior just earned an honorable mention in the New York Times’ global STEM writing contest.

Out of 3,564 entries, judges chose 8 winners, 16 runners-up and 33 honorable mentions. Click here for the full story.

Her essay was titled “Crumbling Paintings, Swelling Crystals and Menacing Monsoons: Climate Change’s Erasure of Humanity’s Oldest Art.”

But Lucia does not spend all her time studying climate change, and writing. She’s also a member of the Wreckers’ varsity tennis team. They finished 15-1 this year, and compete in the FCIAC semifinals at 4 this afternoon at Staples.

Congratulations, Lucia!

Lucia Wang

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On Monday (May 23, 7 p.m.), the Planning & Zoning Commission will review a lease between the town and the Westport Police Athletic League (PAL) for the PJ clubhouse at PJ Romano Field behind Saugatuck Elementary School, plus the lawns, driveway and walkways around it. Click here to see all application materials.

PAL has leased the building from the Board of Education for over 50 years. The lease expired last November. On March 21, the BOE relinquished control back to the town, effective July 1. The proposed lease is 20 years.

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Everyone, of all ages, is invited to MoCA Westport’s Family  Day (June 18, noon to 2 p.m.).

The theme is “inclusion and kindness.” Among the attractions: Piglet, the deaf and blind pink puppy who has inspired a global movement for acceptance, inclusion, empathy and kindness. Westport’s own Melissa Shapiro share his story and talk about her new children’s book, Piglet Comes Home.

Norwalk artist 5iveFingaz will create a mural of Piglet in real time. Visitors can view “Spark,” a showcase of K-12 Westport Public School student art curated by Staples High School students.

Other highlights include a sensory art activity led by MoCA Westport instructors, live music by local favorite Dustin Lowman, an ice cream truck, a meet and greet with dogs from Westport Animal Shelter Advocates, and homemade dog treat giveaways from Earth Animal.

Click here for tickets.

In other Piglet news, Melissa Shapiro’s new children’s picture book, “Piglet Comes Home: How a Deaf Blind Pink Puppy Found His Family,” will be published June 7.

It’s beautifully illustrated, and will be a favorite with parents, children’s librarians — and of course young readers — everywhere. Click here to order, and for more information.

Piglet, with his new book.

 

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The next Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand play reading is “The Scream: A Musical Comedy Fantasy.” The June 13 (7 p.m) live performance will also be livestreamed, from June 16-19. Script in Hand readings offer intimate storytelling, as professional actors bring words to life without sets or costumes.

Click here for more information, and tickets.

“The Scream: A Musical Comedy Fantasy” is based on Edvard Much’s famous painting.

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Former Staples High baseball player George Goldstein is the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) Pitcher of the Year. He’s only the second relief pitcher in history to win the honor, and just the second Middlebury College pitcher to do so.

With the season still continuing, Goldstein holds several Middlebury baseball records, including career saves and career appearances. He is second in best season and career ERA, and saves in a season.

George Goldstein pitches in the snow earlier this season. (Photo/David Goldstein)

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A hummingbird has flitted around Paul Delano’s house recently, collecting spider webs for its nest. He captured this great shot — perfect for “Westport … Naturally.”

(Photo/Paul Delano)

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And finally … in honor of the next Script in Hand play reading at the Westport Country Playhouse (story above):

                                                                  

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