Category Archives: Police

Roundup: Menorahs, Wreaths, Trash Pick-ups …

Posted on December 7, 2023 | 7 comments

Hanukkah starts tonight at sundown.

All set to celebrate is Jolantha, Weston’s favorite pig.

But where’s her gelt and dreidel?

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

==================================================

Speaking of the Festival of Lights: The Schneerson Center for Jewish Life sponsors community menorah lighting celebrations in Westport and Weston.

The “original Westport menorah” at Compo Acres Shopping Center (Trader Joe’s/Wells Fargo parking lot) — now in its 16th year — will be lit Monday (December 11, 7 p.m.).

The day before (Sunday, December 10, 5:30 p.m.), a menorah will be lit at the Weston Shopping Center. It continues a tradition begun 20 years ago.

Both ceremonies include music, cookies, gelt and dreidels.

==================================================

Now, on to Christmas:

Westport Scout Troop is selling wreaths as a fundraiser this weekend (Saturday and Sunday, December 9-10, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., while supplies last; Saugatuck Congregational Church).

Wreaths are $30 and $45. Baked goods and hot cocoa are available too.

Funds will help projects, like the recent construction of lanternfly traps for Sherwood Island State Park. The troop also partners with Sustainable Westport each year, for a mattress recycling drive.

==================================================

There are just 18 days left until Christmas.

Everyone should be mailing gifts and cards like crazy.

But — astonishingly — this was the scene at noon yesterday, in the post office lobby:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

Come on, Westport! This is show time for our postal clerks.

It’s when they shine: helping with packages, dispensing advice, tossing all your stuff into the back to be whisked away — all with the efficiency of a thousand Rudolphs.

Our great US Postal Service men and women are ready to serve you. Give ’em the business!

==================================================

With leaves off the trees, and leaf pick-up by the town almost complete, the trash that litters our town has become quite visible.

Andrew Colabella, and his faithful crew of garbage pickers, come to the rescue.

And anyone can join.

After a successful spring, they’re starting again this Sunday. Everyone is invited to meet at 10 a.m. this Sunday (December 10), at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector. They’ll work throughout the Greens Farms neighborhood.

Volunteers should wear boots, bring gloves and trash bags — and dress warmly.

For questions, or to be added to the email list, write acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

Andrew Colabella (center, front) and friends, picking up trash at the Westport train station last winter.

==================================================

Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between November 29 and December 6.

A man was charged with assault, unlawful restraint, interfering with an emergency call, larceny, sale of narcotics, possession of cannabis greater than 1.5 ounces, illegal possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle, and criminal possession of a firearm.

The charges came after police responded to a report of domestic violence in a vehicle on the Sherwood Island Connector. After the assault, the man refused to let the victim leave, and prevented a 911 call.

The suspect left the area on foot. Officers located him in a vehicle traveling the wrong way on the I-95 northbound exit ramp, and initiated a traffic stop.

Westport Police also issues these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 12 citations
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 2
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1.

A handgun was found, following a report of domestic violence.

=================================================

Speaking of crime:

Scooter Swanson — editor, and nephew of the TV dinner magnate — says his mail carrier tells him that leaving cash in the mailbox as a holiday gift (whether in an envelope or not) is subject to theft.

The carrier claims that UPS, FedEx and Amazon drivers yank out the cash cards intended for him and other US Postal Service colleagues. (This has not been verified.)

Swanson was ripped off of a $10,000 check for his credit card when it was robbed by a “correctional officer” making his nightly tour of mailboxes through neighborhoods.

Fortunately, People’s Bank reimbursed him for his loss. The Hartford also considered it personal property, and reimbursed him another $10,000.

PS: Swanson was once a federal attorney.

Think twice about leaving holiday cash for your mail carrier inside your mailbox.

==================================================

Tickets are on sale now for Saturday’s state “LL” (extra large schools) football championship game, between Staples and West Haven.

Kickoff on December 9 is 5 p.m., at Central Connecticut State University’s Arute Field.

Tickets ($10 each) will not be sold on site; they can only be purchased by clicking this website.

Go Wreckers!

The 2023 Staples High School football program.

==================================================

Music is everywhere — including, often, the Westport Library.

On December 12 (7 p.m.), a multi-media presentation tracks the impact of music on a variety of art forms, in a range of venues.

Speaker John Brandt — a dancer, singer, actor, percussionist, PR consultant and lifelong Westporter — will highlight how music is “the soundtrack of our lives.”

The event — sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston — is free, but registration is required (click here). For further information, email jkbrandt@aol.com or call 203-246-6280.

John Brandt

==========================================

Speaking of the Library:

The second of 3 “Short Cuts Film Festival” showings is next Thursday (December 14, 7 p.m.).

Documentaries selected from the Tribeca Film Festival include:

  • “Then Comes the Body” by Jacob Krupnick: An unlikely ballet school outside Lagos, Nigeria, gains national attention after a video of students dancing in the rain goes viral.
  • “In Her Element” by Idil Ibrahim: Hip-hop artist Daisha McBride takes the traditional rock and country audience in New Orleans by storm.
  • “Team Dream” by Luchina Fisher: Determined friends and competitive swimmers journey to the National Senior Games.
  • “Deciding Vote” by Jeremy Workman & Robert J. Lyons: Fifty years ago, a now-forgotten New York assemblyman cast single tiebreaking vote that legalized abortion in New York, and la the groundwork for Roe v. Wade.

After the screenings, “Team Dream” director Fisher will discuss her film, and documentary filmmaking in general.

Short Cuts Film Festival concludes on January 18, with a program of narrative shorts.

Tickets are $26.50; click here to purchase. Films are suitable for ages 12 and up. Refreshments and popcorn will be provided.

=================================================

Mark Yurkiw — whose work has lately been heavily influenced by his Ukrainian heritage — is December’s guest exhibitor, at the Westport Book Shop.

His exhibit — “Art is Always of Its Time” — includes 12 illuminated works using large-format film transparencies of 3-D images of the 1980s and ’90s.

Yurkiw is an artist, sculptor, filmmaker, scientist, designer, creative director and consultant. His work appears in magazines, advertising, television, feature films, exhibitions and public art. It has been exhibited globally, including most recently as part of a 2-man United Nations exhibit.

A reception for Yurkiw will be held December 14 (6 to 7:30 p.m.). Reserve a spot by phone (203-349-5141) or email: bookshop@westportbooksaleventures.org.

Yurkiw’s art is on exhibit through December 31. All work is available for purchase.

   

Mark Yurkiw, at the Westport Book Shop.

==================================================

The Weston Weston Family YMCA’s Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund honors its 2023 grant recipients at 5 p.m. next Tuesday (December 12) at the Y.

This year, the Fund will award $315,000 in grants to 31 organizations throughout Fairfield County. Their programs support equitable educational programs for students.

Recipients will be announced then.

==================================================

In her 80s, Ruth Sherman is still an indefatigable walker.

At Compo Beach yesterday morning, she spotted this:

(Photo/Ruth Sherman)

Other walkers told her it reminded them of a dog, lizard, rabbit, even a parrot looking sideways with its fist up.

What do you see?

We’ll ask that question, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature. Click “Comments” below.

==================================================

And finally … It wouldn’t be Hanukkah without 5-part harmony from “South Park”:

(Oy! Time to celebrate the holidays with a donation to “06880.” Please click here. תודה!)

7 Comments

Posted in Environment, Library, Police, religion, Sports, YMCA

Tagged , , , , , , ,

Roundup: FOIA, Startup Westport, First Responders …

Posted on November 30, 2023 | 5 comments

John McCarthy writes:

“In June, the town and Police Department contracted with a company called RequestFOIA to give a web-based Freedom of Information Act request portal, through which people could submit FOIA requests.

“It is now live and reachable by clicking on “Public Record Request” on the Police Department website. After clicking, you are sent here.

“It doesn’t look like anyone has used it yet. I have not seen any official notice of it going live.

“This could be a great tool for the town, especially if it was expanded to all other departments and commissions.”

To make a public record request through the Westport Police Department website, click on the box at the right of the home page.

==================================================

Like any good startup, Startup Westport has made a big mark in a short time.

Since its formation last winter, the citizen-led organization — a public/private partnership to promote Westport as the most attractive place in Connecticut for start-up tech companies — has brought together a diverse group of residents.

They’ve heard speakers, networked, and energetically leveraged the astonishing amount of creativity lurking here in offices, homes and coffee shops.

On Tuesday night, over 100 members partied.

Startup Westport’s first annual holiday gathering, at the Westport Country Playhouse Sheffer Barn, was a fun, festive — and intellectually fertile — event.

Founders Jay Norris, Peter Propp and Cliff Sirlin spoke. So did Dan O’Keefe, Connecticut’s first chief innovation officer (who spoke at a previous meeting), and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

But mostly, the evening was a chance to meet and chat with like-minded folks.

And eat, drink, and be tech-merry.

(To learn more about Startup Westport, click here.) 

Scenes from Startup Westport’s first holiday party.

==================================================

When Planning & Zoning Commission chair Danielle Dobin was elected to the Board of Finance earlier this month, the Democratic Town Committee was charged with recommending a replacement.

14 “outstanding” candidates stepped up, the DTC says. Tonight, members will vote to accept the Nominations Committee’s recommendation of Amy Wistreich. The full P&Z will then vote on that recommendation, at their next meeting.

Wistreich was appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals in 2019, then elected to a full term in 2021. She currently serves as secretary. She has a degree in environmental design, and spent her career working in all areas of construction, including architecture, engineering, design, planning, project management, contracts and insurance, in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors.

Amy Wistreich

==============================================

Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between November 15 and 29.

A man was arrested, following an investigation into a December 2020 larceny at HomeGoods. He then returned stolen merchandise, got store credit, used it to purchase other items, returned those, and got full credit baci.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 13 citations
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 7
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Driving while texting: 2
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to carry driver’s license: 1
  • Improper use of marker plates: 1
  • Learner’s permit violation: 1

The sign probably does not work. But be warned: You can be fined up t9 $500 the first time you pass a standing school bus.

==================================================

Speaking of Westport Police:

At first glance, this looks like a major catastrophe. A cop car, ambulance and fire truck — all with flashing lights — right on the holiday-lit William F. Cribari Bridge.

No worries.

It’s a posed shot, showing Westport’s 3 vital first responders, at a site we all love.

Westport Police, the Westport Fire Department and Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service wish everyone in town — residents, business, employees, visitors — a happy, healthy holiday.

In other words: One in which their lights are not needed. And instead, we all enjoy the lights on the bridge.

=================================================

Yesterday’s story on Lucia Palmieri — the very generous Westporter who is inviting kids and parents to meet the Westport Fire Department’s Santa on December 8 — left out one very important detail: the time.

It’s “after 5 p.m.,” Lucia says.

For details on how to participate — including donations made to the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation, and how to drop off the wrapped gift for your child ahead of time (that’s how “Santa” knows what to give) — click here.

=================================================

David Bowie will have a big role at VersoFest 2024.

Sure, the English singer/songwriter/musician/actor died in 2016. But Tony Visconti — who was his producer and arranger, along with T. Rex and Thin Lizzy — will offer the keynote address at the Westport Library’s 3rd annual event.

The Saturday, April 6 discussion  of Visconti’s art and career is set for Saturday, April 6 (1 p.m.). The event is free, but requires registration. Click here for tickets.

The 4-day music festival and conference runs from Thursday, April 4 through Sunday, April 7. It includes panels, workshops and performances. Further details will be announced soon.

Tony Visconti and David Bowie.

==================================================

If you’ve been wondering about “The Miyawaki Method: Microforests in the Age of Climate Change”: You’re in luck!

That’s the topic of Aspetuck Land Trust’s next “Lunch & Learn” webinar.

Set for Friday, December 8 (noon to 1:30 p.m.), it features micro-forest creator and environmental advocate Maya Dutta. She’ll discuss this unique method for reforestation, and how micro-forests can build communal and climate resilience.

Click here for more information, and to register.

==================================================

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is a very cool image of this week’s Beaver Moon.

Nancy Lally captured it through the trees, in all its bright glory.

(Photo/Nancy Lally)

==================================================

And finally … in honor of VersoFest 2024 — and the keynote address by David Bowie’s former producer and arranger (story above):

(VersoFest — set for next April — will be here before you know it. So will December 31. Give yourself a tax-deductible break before the New Year. Please click here, to support “06880.” Thank you!)

5 Comments

Posted in Environment, Library, Local politics, Police, technology

Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Unsung Heroes #311

Posted on November 22, 2023 | 10 comments

It’s been a busy few months for the Westport Police Department.

They’ve dealt with a violent carjacking and other auto thefts; ramped up security at local houses of worship following Hamas’ attack on Israel; rescued boaters from Long Island Sound, and searched for their missing companions.

Meanwhile, their daily duties — traffic enforcement, ensuring school safety, responding to dozens of calls a day — continue.

But it was all hands on deck last weekend, when a Staples High School freshman was reported missing.

Members of the Detective Bureau, and many other officers, quickly mobilized. They descended on the Bayberry Lane preserve where he was last seen. They scoured trails on foot, utilized area K-9s, and called in drone operators to search by air.

They followed leads, including a 2-second phone call believed to be placed from a Wifi kiosk in New York.

Just 24 hours later, they located him in a library near Grand Central Station.

It was a harrowing — but thoroughly professional — investigation. When the teen was reunited with his family, officers were exhausted.

But they were proud too.

And as thrilled as the young man’s family and friends.

You could say “that’s their job.” But it’s hard to find any police force that does it better, more thoroughly, or with more care and concern.

(To nominate an Unsung Hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To help support “06880,” please make a tax-deductible contribution by clicking here. Thank you!)

10 Comments

Posted in Police, Teenagers, Unsung Heroes

Tagged

Roundup: Foiled Car Thefts, 80 Turkeys, Gift Wrapping Service …

Posted on November 22, 2023 | Comments Off on Roundup: Foiled Car Thefts, 80 Turkeys, Gift Wrapping Service …

The video is grainy. But it sends an important message.

Westport’s Police Department released film from a Nest camera, recorded early Monday morning.

It shows 2 people running up a driveway, where 2 cars are parked. One person tries to open one driver’s side door; the other attempts to open the other vehicle.

Both are locked. The men quickly scamper away, to a car waiting on the road.

Screen shot of the attempted theft. A man is trying the doors of the re car; another approaches the vehicle on the left. The getaway car is at the upper right.

“A great example of what happens when you lock the car doors … they leave!” the police say.

There is no stronger proof than this: Residents should always lock their cars.

If everyone does, the difference in auto thefts will be like night and day.

(If you are on Facebook, click here to play the video.)

==================================================

While many Westporters were preoccupied with planning a Thanksgiving feast for family and friends, Gillian Anderson worried about area residents who can’t afford a turkey dinner or holiday experience.

When she learned that the Light on the Hill food pantry at Summerfield United Methodist Church in Bridgeport had fallen short on its Thanksgiving food drive for 250 families, Gillian called on her friends at the Westport Rotary Club and the United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston.

They quickly volunteered to raise money, then shop and drive carloads of food — including frozen turkeys — to Bridgeport.

80 turkeys, 180 boxes of stuffing mix and 50 cans of cranberry sauce were procured and transported. All 250 families received their Thanksgiving dinners.

The Turkey Drive generated so much enthusiasm at Westport Rotary that this holiday project may become a new club tradition.

Lots of turkeys, at Summerfield United Methodist Church.

==================================================

Just in time for holiday gift giving (and its tedious cousin, gift wrapping), Jean Symonette has started a new business  out of her Westport home.

The Wrapping Bow-tique — a wrapping service — “understands that the presentation of a gift is as crucial as the gift itself. With hundreds of paper and ribbons to choose from, we transform ordinary presents into gifts that are as unique and beautiful as the sentiment behind them.”

The Wrapping Bow-tique also creates environmentally friendly gift boxes.  All are repurposed, and reusable with lids that lift off. They are hand wrapped in premium paper, and adorned with bows.

Click here for the website; click here for the Facebook page; click here for Instagram.

Questions? Email jeanwrappingbowtique@gmail.com.

Wrapping Bow-tique samples.

================================================== 

For many years, the Westport Weston Family Y has opened its doors and programs to the special needs community.

This winter, the Y expand its programming, and reestablishes its partnership with Special Olympics Connecticut.

The Y’s special needs programs include gymnastics, swimming, open play, and organized sports like basketball and soccer. People of all ages with social, behavioral and physical differences can enjoy a variety of activities that promote wellness, creativity, socialization and belonging. 

To support those efforts, the Y has hired Brittany Williams as special needs coordinator.

Y chief operations officer Christina Scherwin says, “Last weekend we celebrated our gold medal champions. ‘Team Happy’ participated in the Special Olympics unified basketball state tournament, and placed first in their division.

“It’s not about the color of the medal though, but the process. These participants have worked really hard improving their skills, attention and teamwork. It is so rewarding to see their progress and dedication shine through.”

This spring, the Westport Weston Family Y debuts its first Special Needs Prom. Participants ages 14 and up will enjoy a prom experience, with a red carpet entrance, live DJ, dancing, photo booth, food, and fun activities.

The Kiev family’s contributions support this expansion of the Y’s programming.

To volunteer on the court or poolside as a coach, player, mentor, prom date or helping organize social activities, or to become an event sponsor, email bwilliams@westporty.org. For more information, click here.

Westport Weston Family Y Special Olympics participants.

================================================== 

Earthplace invites Westporters (and their holiday guests) to check out several drop-in offerings this Thanksgiving weekend (except tomorrow).

“Story and Animal Program” runs every day except Sunday (and Thanksgiving) at 10;30 a.m. Children 5 and under enjoy and animal-themed story, and an encounter with an Animal Hall resident.

“Birds of Prey Feedings” are held daily at 11 a.m. Watch the feeding, and learn what birds eat in the wild.

“Saturdays at Earthplace” (November 25, noon) is a chance for children of all ages to take part in a nature-based arts and crafts activity. A parent or caregiver must be present.

For more information, click here.

==================================================

Yesterday’s Roundup included an incorrect date for Club 203’s next event.

The social group for adults with disabilities will celebrate the holidays on Monday, December 4 — not “next Monday’ — from 6:30 to 8 p.m., at MoCA.

There’s square dancing, a Western photo area, food and giveaways. Parents are invited to stay and celebrate too.

Click here for reservations, and more information. Questions? Email club203ct@gmail.com.

==================================================

The Westport Country Playhouse “Script in Hand” season concludes with “Warrior Class.”

The December 4 (7 p.m.) play is about a candidate for Congress. “The ghosts of his college days come back to haunt him. Nothing reveals true colors like a sprint to the finish, when friends become enemies and allies can turn on a dime. ‘Warrior Class’ is a political battle of race, romance, forgiveness and debt.”

All tickets are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

===========================================

Steve Halstead sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, with this note:

“A pileated woodpecker eats an early Thanksgiving dinner on a tree behind our house.”

(Photo/Steve Halstead)

==================================================

And finally … I’ve posted Dion’s powerful “Abraham, Martin and John” video before.

Today, on the 60th anniversary of the assassination of President Kennedy, here is an especially haunting version of a song that — sadly — never grows old.

(If you learn nothing else from “06880,” it’s this: Lock your car! If that saves you several thousand dollars, consider a contribution to your hyper-local blog. Please click here. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Roundup: Foiled Car Thefts, 80 Turkeys, Gift Wrapping Service …

Posted in Children, Environment, Local business, Police, Westport Country Playhouse, YMCA

Tagged , , , , ,

Roundup: Lyman Police Aid, Westport HR Hire, HS Dodge-a-Cop …

Posted on November 21, 2023 | 5 comments

The Westport Police Department’s latest donation of excess used equipment — including communication devices, and much-needed hats — has been delivered to their counterparts in our sister city of Lyman, Ukraine.

It is much needed, as the war grinds on and heads into a second winter.

NOTE: Donations to Lyman are always welcome. Click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)

Lyman police officer, with a Westport Police walkie-talkie — and hat.

==================================================

The town of Westport has hired a human resources director.

Candice Holley’s appointment is effective immediately.

She has over 20 years’ experience in human capital and human resources implementation, with a strong background in talent acquisition, recruitment and retention.

Most recently, Holley served as an independent HR consultant. Previous positions include vice president, people and operations, for the Sandy Hook Promise Foundation, and global director, human resources, with Barnes Group.

She graduated from Seton Hall University with a degree in social and behavioral Sciences. She also attended the University of Mississippi to earn a degree in Psychology, and the University of Cincinnati for political science.

Candice Holley

==============================================

One of Westport’s favorite holiday toy drives — the Westport Police Department’s, in partnership with the Police Benevolent Association and Police Athletic League — is open for donations.

Toys will be provided to children in need throughout Fairfield County, and at area hospitals.

Officers will accept new, unopened and unwrapped toys — and cash donations — in the ASF Sports & Outdoors parking lot (1560 Post Road East), between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., on the next 2 weekends (Saturday and Sunday, December 2-3 and 9-10).

There will also be toy collection boxes at:
• Westport Police Department, 50 Jesup Road
• ASF Sports & Outdoors Store, 1560 Post Road East
• Awesome Toys & Gifts, 429 Post Road East
• The Toy Post , 180 Post Road East

Questions? Contact Craig Bergamo by phone at (203) 341-6000, or
email (cbergamo@westportct.gov).

==================================================

More than a dozen teams — each including Staples students, and at least one Westport Police Department officer — battled last night, in the high school fieldhouse.

A portion of the large group of students and cops. (Photo/Dan Woog)

It was all in good fun. The annual “Dodge-a-Cop” event was a way for teenagers and cops to meet and bond — and for the Westport Youth Commission to raise funds for the Homes with Hope and Westport Woman’s Club food pantries.

Kevin Godburn, longtime Youth Commission member through the Department of Human Services (2nd from left) with (from left) members Jake Shufro, Cabry Lueker (president) and Anaam Olasewere (secretary, Dodge-a-Cop manager). (Photo/Dan Woog)

Gault Energy and Mitchells co-sponsored the evening, which included prizes, pizza and drinks.

And plenty of good, clean, cops-and-kids competition.

The winning Dodge-a-Cop team included Corporal (and Westport PAL president) Craig Bergamo (right). (Photo/Cabry Lueker)

=================================================

Club 203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — celebrates the holidays next week.

The party is set for MoCA, next Monday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. It’s a “hoedown,” so Western-themed attire is suggested.

There’s square dancing, a Western photo area, food and giveaways. Parents are invited to stay and celebrate too.

Click here for reservations, and more information. Questions? Email club203ct@gmail.com

==================================================

Westporter Rosie Jon — who paints with her toes better than nearly anyone can using hands — celebrates 10 years as an artist with her first-ever exhibition.

It’s set for the gallery at Green’s Farm’s Church, from December 1 to January 12.

Opening night begins at 6 p.m., and includes a chance to watch Rosie create her beautiful art, and a Q-and-A.

Attendance is limited. Click here to register.

==================================================

Speaking of art:

The Westport Library welcomed Norm Siegel last night.

The noted local artist discussed his new exhibit, “Visual Curiosities.” It’s on view through January 8.

Norm Siegel (far right) with (from left) admirers Nina Bentley, Miggs Burroughs and Lynn Untermeyer Miller, last night at the Westport Library. (Photo/Carole Erger-Fass)

=================================================

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” subject is getting ready for winter, at Winslow Park?

Are you as industrious?

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

==================================================

And finally … on this date more than 80 years apart, 2 key entertainment events happened.

In 1877, Thomas Edison announced his invention of the phonograph: a machine that can record and play sound.

In 1959, disc jockey Alan Freed, who popularized the term “rock and roll,” was fired from New York’s WABC radio over allegations he had participated in a payola scandal.

(Art, music, kids, Town Hall — it’s all here in the Roundup, just like every day. But all this stuff takes time and effort. “06880” relies on reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

5 Comments

Posted in Arts, Children, Police, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Missing Teen Found Safe

Posted on November 19, 2023 | 14 comments

The search for a missing Staples High School freshman is over.

And the news is good.

Thanks to shared information by law enforcement, and social media platforms, the Westport Police Department tracked Max Yeater to a New York City library near Grand Central Station.

Detectives reunited the 15-year-old with his family at 5 p.m. today.

Westport Police thank the public, their law enforcement partners and the media for helping bring Max back to Westport.

Max Yeater, from a photo distributed yesterday after his disappearance.

 

14 Comments

Posted in Police, Staples HS, Teenagers

Tagged ,

Help Find Max: Please Share This Flyer

Posted on November 19, 2023 | 10 comments

The family and friends of Max Yeater — the missing Staples High School freshman — ask “06880” readers to share this flyer on social media with friends in New York City and Vermont.

You can forward this post, or click here to save the poster as an image.

 

10 Comments

Posted in Police, Staples HS, Teenagers

Tagged

Missing Youth: More Details

Posted on November 19, 2023 | 1 comment

A friend of the Yeater family clarifies some of the details released by the Westport Police Department this morning, about missing 15-year-old Max Yeater.

The friend says that the phone call to one of Max’s friends was brief — only 2 words — and that the friend believed it came from Max. Then the line went dead. The call was from a LinkNYC kiosk.

There has not been full confirmation that Max is in Manhattan. Westport Police continue their search, and he is still considered missing.

Max Yeater

1 Comment

Posted in Police, Staples HS, Teenagers

Tagged

Missing Youth Update: Phone Call Traced To NYC

Posted on November 19, 2023 | 1 comment

Missing Staples High School freshman Maxwell Yeater has been heard from.

Yesterday, Westport Police conducted an exhaustive search of Newman’s Preserve Trail yesterday, looking for the 15-year-old.

They searched trails on foot, utilized area K-9s, and called in drone operators to search by air, but could not locate him

During the investigation, police were contacted by a friend of Maxwell, who said he had received a call from him. The friend provided the phone number from where the call was placed.

Police discovered that the phone number was associated with Wi-Fi calling kiosks in New York City.

Detective Bureau members continue to work on the case. They ask anyone with information on the whereabouts of Maxwell to contact the Westport Police Department, at 203-341-6000.

They are also reaching out directly to Maxwell, and ask him to contact his family or law enforcement.

Maxwell Yeater

1 Comment

Posted in Police, Staples HS, Teenagers

Tagged ,

Roundup: Holiday Farmers’ Market, Thanksgiving Club 203, WestportREADS …

Posted on November 16, 2023 | 1 comment

The seasons change. And the Westport Farmers’ Market does too.

They’ll usher in the new one with a special Holiday Market on a Tuesday (November 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), at the WFM’s winter home: Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, 7 Sylvan Lane.

Thirty vendors spread throughout 3 greenhouses will offer everything for Thanksgiving (and beyond): turkeys, veggies, breads, appetizers, desserts, even fresh pasta for those so inclined.

The full list:

  • Fort Hill Farm
  • Cloudy Lane
  • Riverbank Farm
  • Edgewise
  • Oxhollow Farm
  •  Woodland Farm
  • Kent Falls Brewery
  • Paul’s Custom Pet Food
  • Wave Hill Breads
  •  Herbaceous Catering
  • Farmers & Cooks
  •  Boxcar Cantina
  • Kneads Bakery
  •  Calf & Clover
  • Seacoast Mushrooms
  •  Sprout Juice
  • Badass Bagels
  •  Ideal Fish
  • Sport Hill Farm
  • Fatto a Mano
  • Herbal Deva
  • Bubble & Brew
  • Muddy Feet Flower Farm
  • Jackie’s Empanadas
  • Plantidote
  • Nit Noi Provisions
  •  Ideal Fish
  • Stylish Spoon
  •  Kontoulis

================================================

Club 203 — Westport’s social organization for adults with disabilities — gathered at Earthplace last night for a special monthly event.

Called “Thankful and Grateful,” it was a chance to share a sense of belonging, and the knowledge of mattering in each other’s lives.

Everyone wished each other a joyful Thanksgiving with turkey sandwiches from The Porch at Christie’s, “turkey artwork” with MoCA, and visits from Earthplace’s feathered friends.

“We begin the holiday season with inspiration, and connections to the community,” Club 203 says.

Club 203 celebrates Thanksgiving at Earthplace.

==================================================

The 2024 WestportREADS book is …

“The Art Thief.”

Michael Finkel’s true tale of the world’s  most prolific art thief — Stéphane Breitwieser, who stole not for money, but for personal treasure and adoration — continues the town’s 22-year tradition of greeting the new year by reading one book together.

Copies of the book are available for borrowing now at the Westport Library. More volumes arrive next month. “The Art Thief” is also available in e-book and audiobook versions.

A variety of “Art Thief”-oriented programs — including discussion groups, art activities and more — begin in January. The capstone event is January 26, when Finkel appears in-person at the Library to deliver the WestportREADS keynote address.

Finkel is a journalist and best-selling memoirist from Utah. A heralded New York Times reporter, he was terminated for compositing quotes in a 2001 story.

Shortly afterward, he discovered that Oregon murderer Christian Longo used “Michael Finkel” as an alias. Finkel reached out to Longo, forging a relationship that served as the basis for “True Story: Murder, Memoir, Mea Culpa.” It was adapted for a 2015 film, “True Story.”

Finkel’s follow-up, “The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit,” chronicled Christopher Knight, an intentional recluse who lived for 27 years in the woods of Maine with almost no human interaction. He survived by grifting life essentials.

The WestportREADS selection has been widely acclaimed. The New Yorker said: “’The Art Thief,’ like its title character, has confidence, élan, and a great sense of timing. It is propelled by suspense and surprises. … This ultra-lucrative, odds-defying crime streak is wonderfully narrated by Finkel, in a tale whose trajectory is less rise and fall than crazy and crazier.”

For more past WestportREADS selections, and to learn more about the annual event, click here.

==================================================

Kings Highway Elementary School modeled kindness this week.

On Monday and Tuesday, students and staff participated in their annual Walk-a-Thon/Read-a-Thon, to raise money for the Westport Department of Human Services Holiday Program. It provides financial assistance for food, shelter, utilities, medical expenses and other needs.

Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd graders walked around the PJ Romano track for an hour — 90 laps. Principal Tracey Carbone and Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice cheered them on.

Meanwhile, 3rd through 5th graders read in classrooms, collecting funds pledged for their books.

Yesterday, nearly 2 dozen KHS parents worked out for a great cause — Project Purple — at the nearby F45 studio. Over $1,200 was collected for the non-profit that supports patients and raises awareness about pancreatic cancer, in honor of KHS parent George Filopoulos.

Kings Highway Elementary School walk-a-thon.

==================================================

Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between November 8 and 15.

A man was arrested for violation of probation.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 9 citation
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Speeding: 1
  • Driving unreasonably fast in a school zone: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to obey a stop sign: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Occupying a house trailer on a highway: 1
  • Failure to carry a license: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

It’s illegal to be in a house trailer on a highway.

==================================================

VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 has become Westport’s favorite go-to jazz spot, thanks to the weekly Jazz at the Post series.

Last night, the Riverside Avenue venue welcomed a different jazz sound.

The US Air Force Rhythm in Blue jazz ensemble — featuring Westport’s own trumpet virtuoso and arranger Michael P. Mossman — delivered inspiring music that celebrated patriotism, and the essence of the genre.

The performance was both a tribute to veterans and a celebration of Air Force heritage, resonating through the power of music.

Trumpeter Michael Mossman of Westport, with the US Air Force Rhythm in Blue jazz ensemble.

==================================================

Claudia Sherwood Servidio captured today’s “Westport … Naturally” image in the fantastic fall light, near the Westport Woman’s Club:

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

==================================================

And finally … on this date in 1907, Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory joined to form Oklahoma — admitted to the union as our 46th US state.

(Whether you live here, in Oklahoma or anywhere else, “06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” Please click here to help us keep doing that. Thank you!)

1 Comment

Posted in Children, Education, Entertainment, Library, Local business, Police

Tagged , , , ,