Category Archives: Politics

Roundup: Hazardous Waste, Good Food, The Oscars …

Posted on March 4, 2025 | 1 comment

Get wasted!

The Department of Public Works’ annual Household Hazardous Waste Day is  Saturday, April 5 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station).

This free program enables residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich to safely dispose of household hazardous wastes.

Products like cleaners, gasoline and pesticides can pollute the environment and jeopardize public health if disposed of improperly.

Residents may dispose of these types of hazardous waste: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.

Before bringing household hazardous material to the collection site:

  • Make sure items are clearly labeled. Do not mix chemicals. Incompatible products may react, ignite, or explode, and mixed waste may become non-recyclable.
  • Keep products in original labeled container.
  • Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
  • Tighten lids of all containers, and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
  • Put boxes in the trunk or in the back of the vehicle away from passengers.
  • Keep your windows open.
  • Leave pets and children home.
  • Do not smoke or eat while handling hazardous materials.

Westport residents may recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector. It’s open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.

The following items are not acceptable: ammunition, flares, and commercial hazardous waste.

Questions? Call Public Works: 203-341-1793.

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Sure, you shop at the Westport Farmers’ Market. You love the fresh fruits, vegetables, produce, meats and more, and you stock up every Thursday, at the Imperial Avenue parking lot (spring through all), and Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center (winter).

But wouldn’t it be nice to have some great recipes, to add extra creativity to all that great food?

The Farmers’ Market Recipe Program is your answer.

Directed by chef Jes Bengtson of @terraincafe, the Farmers’ Market Instagram features monthly videos by top local chefs and foodies. Each one includes information on how to source ingredients from WFM, how to prep, and how to prepare.

You can find them on the Farmers’ Market’s Instagram (click here), Facebook page and website.

Hungry yet? Look below, for a list of monthly culinary stars.

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Speaking of food: This is Soup Month in Westport.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker made the proclamation yesterday, at Calise’s Food Market. It was the first serving of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce Great Soup Contest.

All month long, 16 soup-making spots will compete in 7 categories. Judging will be done online, by soup-loving Westport residents.

And every voter is entered into a drawing to win a free soup, from one of the 7 winners.

The 16 competitors are Basso, Calise’s, Capuli, Gaetano’s, Garelick and Herbs, Gold’s Deli, Joe’s Pizza, Kawa Ni, Little Pub @ Dunville’s, Old Mill Grocery, Organic Market, Rive Bistro, Rizzuto’s, Romanacci, The Whelk and Tutti’s.

The 7 categories are: Best Chicken, Beef, Vegetable, Asian, Onion and Matzoh Ball Soup, and Best Chowder. Each place can enter up to 4 categories, but can win no more than 2.

Voting runs through March 31. Visit the venues, enjoy their offerings, then click here to vote.

Kicking off the Great Soup Contest (from left): town attorney Ira Bloom, Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell, assistant town attorney Eileen Flug, 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Calise’s owner Carmen Cenatiempo.

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Speaking still of food: Finalmente has not served its last meal.

The Post Road East restaurant — next to Jeera Thai, across from Design Within Reach — will reopen, perhaps as early as the end of this month.

The new owners — Giuseppe Cinque, a familiar name to Fairfield County diners — will keep the old name. But he’s updating the menu, and renovating the interior.

CT Insider first reported the news. Click here for their story.

Finalmente, before it closed last May after 19 years.

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The Board of Finance begins its review of 2 proposed 2025-26 budgets tomorrow (Wednesday, March 5, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium; livestream on Cablevision Channel 79, and westportct.gov).

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker will present the town budget. Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein offer the Westport Public Schools budget.

Click here to view Tooker’s proposed budget. Click here for Scarice and Goldstein’s proposed budget.

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If you watched the Academy Awards on Sunday, you saw plenty of gorgeous dresses.

You may have especially admired Halle Berry, Queen Latifah and Whoopi Goldberg’s outfits.

Each was special. But all were created by Christian Siriano. The fashion designer lives in Westport, and has his own shop-by-appointment store, The Collective West, on Post Road East. (It will close soon however, and relocate to New York.)

Click below to see Whoopi Goldberg. Click here for more of Siriano’s designs, on his Instagram page.

Whoopi Goldberg, in a Christian Siriano gown.

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Speaking of the Oscars: Michael McCorry Rose interrupted rehearsals for Westport Country Playhouse’s next show — the romantic comedy “Theatre People” — to attend Sunday night’s ceremony.

He had good reason: He was a cast member of the film “Wicked.”

But the Playhouse was on his mind. Standing on the carpet, he gave a shoutout to the character he will portray beginning March 25: the narcissistic Victor Pratt, aka “Broadway’s Favorite Baritone.”

Click here for more information, and tickets to “Theatre People.” Click below for the video of Rose, at the Oscars.

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Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport has an active March. Among the activities:

  • International Women’s Day Lunch (March 8, 11:30 a.m., Gabriele’s Steak House).
  • Girls Night Out (bring a dish for potluck dinner, BYOB drink, and karaoke energy).
  • Book group (March 27; private home): “A Hundred Summers.” Contact Peggy O’Halloran: pohal@aol.com.
  • Cooking group (date and theme TBD). Email mia.goldman@yahoo.com.

For more details, including membership, click here.

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Westport Pride’s annual drag show is going on the road.

This year’s special guest is Patty Bourée. The 18+ event — with cocktails, songs and comedy — is March 22 (7 p.m.) at The Knowlton, Bridgeport’s premier event space.

“Come dressed to spring eternal,” organizers say. And why not? It’s the second day of spring!

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Patty Bourrée

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Sara Caswell headlines this week’s “Jazz at the Post” (Thursday, March 6, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7; music charge $20, $15 for veterans and students).

A classically trained string player, she has toured or recorded with Bruce Springsteen, Esperanza Spalding, Regina Carter and others, and led her own band. Caswell teaches at the Berklee College of Music, New York University and the New School.

Joining her are bassist Ike Sturm, guitarist Jesse Lewis, painist Alex Browner and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.

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You have to look hard to see the 2 bobcats in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

But that’s the idea of camouflage.

Ivan and Danielle Alexander spotted the animals on Sunday, in their Coleytown neighborhood.

(Photo/Ivan Alexander)

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And finally … in honor of Westport Pride’s upcoming drag show (story above):

(Where else but “06880” can you learn about hazardous waste, the Oscars and a drag show, all at once? If you enjoy our daily Roundups, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Local politics, Politics, Restaurants

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It’s Official: Tooker Announces Governor’s Run

Posted on March 3, 2025 | 49 comments

Westport will have a new 1st selectperson next fall.

And — current 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker hopes — in 2026, when Connecticut votes next for governor, she’ll head to Hartford.

This afternoon Tooker — a Republican in her first term as 1st selectwoman, after serving on Westport’s Boards of Education and Finance — officially announced her candidacy for the state’s highest office.

Governor Ned Lamont has not yet announced his intentions for a third term. If he does not run the field may include several high-profile Democrats, including Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, former Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin, Speaker of the House of Representatives Matt Ritter, State Comptroller Sean Scanlon, and Attorney General William Tong.

On the Republican side, Erin Stewart, the Republican mayor of New Britain serving her 6th and final term, is exploring a gubernatorial race.

Four of Connecticut’s 5 most recent governors have been from Fairfield County. The last previous Westport resident to run for governor was Republican Julie Belaga, more than 3 decades ago.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker

In a statement announcing her candidacy this afternoon, Tooker’s campaign called her “a champion for fiscal responsibility, economic growth, and government accountability…. With a proven record of leadership in both the
public and private sectors, Tooker is running to bring bold, results-driven solutions to the state.”

“For too long, Connecticut families and businesses have been burdened by high taxes, rising costs, and a state government that lacks accountability,” she said.

“I’m running for governor to restore fiscal discipline, create an economy where businesses and workers thrive, and make Connecticut a place where families can afford to stay, work, and retire.”

Tooker called it “an incredible honor to be the leader of this amazing community. I have served in multiple elected roles for almost 14 years. We have achieved so much together for the town we all call home. I am ready to bring my experience and commitment to Hartford to ensure a stronger future for our entire state.”

Last month, Tooker delivered the State of the Town address at the Westport Library. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Tooker will campaign on a plan to rein in state employee costs, which have grown 33% in 5 years; lower energy costs, in part by removing public benefits charges from electric bills; and lower taxes and expand aging-in-place programs to ensure that seniors can remain in their communities.

She also pledges to launch a statewide innovation initiative to position Connecticut as a leader in AI, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing. This will, she said, “create high-paying jobs, and drive economic revitalization in cities like Hartford, New Haven, and Bridgeport.”

A press release called Tooker “a genuine lover of Connecticut and experienced public servant (who) has successfully led efforts to enhance economic development, improve public safety, and strengthen local schools.”

A University of Notre Dame graduate with a degree in economics and international studies, Tooker spent her private sector career in the reinsurance industry.

Working and living abroad for more than a decade “broadened her perspective and reaffirmed her belief that the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy as Americans are unmatched anywhere in the world,” her biography on Westport’s town website says.

Tooker’s volunteer efforts in Westport have included the Westport Weston Family YMCA board of trustees, Westport Sunrise Rotary Club, Sunrise Rotary 21st Century Foundation board, the Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund Committee, and coaching in the Westport Soccer Association.

She and her husband Mo have 3 children.

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Posted in Local politics, Politics

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Roundup: Orange Balloon Memorial March, Tyler Hicks’ Ukraine Photos …

Posted on February 24, 2025 | 4 comments

150 people met at the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot yesterday, for a special RunForTheirLives walk.

The “Orange Balloon Memorial March” honored the Bibas family, along with Oded Lifshitz, a founder of Kibbutz Nir Oz. All lived there, before being kidnapped on October 7, 2023.

RunForTheirLives-Westport founder Melinda Wasserman opened the march with moving words about how the Bibas boys had come to feel like “our own children,” followed by similarly grief-imbued comments by Jennifer Wolff.

Gathering in the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot …

Temple Israel’s Rabbi Elena Nemitoff-Bressler led the crowd in the Mourner’s Kaddish.

The group then carried orange balloons, most of them donated by Party Hardy owner Jackie Marshal.

… beginning the march downtown …

The balloons were tied onto both sides of the Ruth Steinkraus Bridge. They blew in the winter wind the rest of the day, a reminder of the flame-haired children Hamas had executed.

Event organizers called it “a stunningly moving event. Our grief-stricken community united in both mourning for those we have lost, and celebration of those who have been returned to their families and loved ones, and, of course, to Israel.”

… and leaving balloons on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.

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Today marks the 3rd anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

For 3 years, Tyler Hicks has covered that war.

The 1988 Staples High School graduate is a Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer for the New York Times.

Today, in a video on the newspaper’s website, Tyler explains some of the images he’s shot.

Tyler Hicks, in a screenshot from the New York Times video.

From demolished buildings to dead soldiers and civilians, he describes what each one meant then — and what it all means today.

Click here for Tyler’s riveting photos, and stories. (Hat tip: Amy Unikewicz)

Captioning, as Tyler Hicks explains one of his images. (Photo/Tylelr Hicks for the New York Times)

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There’s nothing like theatre people.

And on March 10 (6 to 8 p.m.), 2 weeks before the curtain rises on the Westport Country Playhouse production of the backstage comedy “Theatre People,” the 94-year-old institution salutes itself, its legacy, and the people who bring its shows to life.

“Get Ready for Theatre People! An Evening of Cocktails, Fun Tales and Backstage Tours” features an “alumni panel,” with actors Mia Dillon, Keir Dullea, Joe Delafield and Michael McCormick, former co-artistic director Anne Keefe, and more. Playhouse artistic director Mark Shanahan is the moderator.

The pre-show evening also includes behind-the-scenes tours led by WCP archivist and historian Bruce Miller, and a cocktail party.

Discount ticket offers will be available at the event for performances of “Theatre People.” The comedy is set in 1948 in a Newport mansion populated with characters in love with theater. They try to write a Broadway hit, but create as much drama among themselves as on paper.

Tickets for “Get Ready for Theatre People!” are $25; $15 for Encore Club members; click here to order. Click here for more details on “Theatre People” (March 25 through April 12).

Westport Country Playhouse historian Bruce Miller, with some of the 500 head shots near the dressing rooms underneath the stage. They’ll be part of the “Theatre People” tour.

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The countdown is on for Fashionably Westport.

And only a few tickets remain.

This year’s 5th annual event is set for this Friday (February 28, 7 p.m., Westport Library). Sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association, it’s a benefit for Homes with Hope.

The show features the latest styles, from the town’s mot sophisticated and fashion-forward retailers.

Models are all local friends and celebrities. The emcee and runway director are neighbors too: Dave Briggs and Carey Price, respectively.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

There’s a silent auction too, with categories like art, beauty, business, entertainment, food and wine, health and wellness, sports and travel.

Plus (of course!) fashion.

Bidding begins this Thursday (February 27, 6 p.m.). Click here to see all items.

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We’re 3 weeks away from the 5th anniversary of the week COVID rolled into Westport.

Within 24 hours, downtown was deserted. It took months for life to return.

But even in 2025, Main Street is still quiet early on Sunday mornings. William Weiss captured this “Last Picture Show” (Westport-style) image yesterday:

(Photo/William Weiss)

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Mary Brewster comes from an artistic family.

Her father, Howard Munce, was one of Westport’s most noted and beloved artists. He died in 2016, at 100.

She’s been knitting baby hats for quite a while. Now she has created a business: Hat Cakes. (The design looks like a little cake.)

She staged one on a plate, with miniature animals and fake snow. Images posted on social media have received positive feedback. Mothers (and grandmotherss) especially love them.

Contact marybrewste@gmail.com for more information. We hope Hat Cakes sell like hot cakes.

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As winter slowly — v-e-r-y slowly — prepares for its transition to spring, the days are growing longer.

Jerry Kuyper captured this hopeful sunset, in the woods off Rayfield Road, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … Jerry Butler — “The Iceman,” who as the first leader of the Impressions, as a duet with Betty Everett and as a solo artist had a long and successful career — died Thursday in Chicago.

He was 85, and suffered from Parkinson’s.

Among his many hits:

(Welcome to another week — and, each day, another Roundup bringing you news of events, people and sights all around Westport. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Politics, Westport Country Playhouse

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Marc Selverstone: Presidential Scholar Studies #47

Posted on February 24, 2025 | 10 comments

Marc Selverstone is a presidential scholar.

He teaches and writes about the American presidency.

In 2025, that’s like being someone who studied ocean liners and icebergs in 1912.

That’s my analogy, not his.

Marc Selverstone

Selverstone — a 1980 graduate of Staples High School — is the University of Virginia Miller Center’s director of presidential studies, and co-chair of its Presidential Recordings Program.

The Miller Center is non-partisan. When we spoke on Friday, Selverstone chose his words carefully and judiciously.

But still …

In the 50 years since its founding the Center has examined tapes, conducted oral histories, convened panels, and embarked on many other projects. It gauges the trajectory of the presidency as an institution, and make recommendations to ensure its effectiveness in American life.

Neither Selverstone nor his colleagues have ever seen a presidency like the current one.

They are not journalists, writing about executive orders, negotiations and norms-breaking as they occur.

They are not pundits or talking heads, explaining it all on TV or podcasts.

Presidential scholars wait. They need access to documents, records, memoirs and other historical information, to examine and assess the success or failure of any particular administion.

But still …

In his first term, President Trump showed an unprecedented disregard for the Presidential Records Act. In many ways, his second administration is even less bound by tradition (and laws) than the first.

It’s clear, Selverstone says, that — unlike in 2017 — the Trump administration was ready to govern from Day One.

“They had a very clear sense of what they wanted to do in terms of policy and execution, and who they wanted to have involved,” he notes.

“That’s especialy true with their use of executive orders. There have been dozens already.

Since January 20, President Trump has signed a flurry of executive orders.

“it’s so hard to get things done through Congress. So presidents reach for executive power. Most presidents of a different party come in and reverse some orders of the previous president, and add some of their own. But this expands greatly on what other presidents have done in the first 100 days.”

Because Republicans control the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the White House, Trump can “flex his executive might as much as possible,” Selverstone says.

“His followers like that — even though, by and large, many Americans are concerned about too much executive power.”

Selverstone adds, “We’d be hard pressed int he modern era to identify another president who tiptoes to the line, to suggest that laws or courts might not matter.

While Congress is a co-equal branch of government, right now members are “not really holding the president’s feet to the fire, in areas like personnel and policy.”

In recent years, Selverstone says, the balance of power has shifted more to the executive branch. The Trump presidency had accelerated that trend.

In fact, he adds, “as Trump asserts authority over ndependent agencies in a way that makes some people uncomfortable, he seems to invite court challenges. Favorable rulings could expand his power even more. That to me is a very different presidency.”

Recent Supreme Court rulings have widened presidential power.

Meanwhile, the Federal Election Commission is, like other independent agencies, in Trump’s crosshairs. Its independence is no longer assured.

The norms being overturned now date back to the post-Watergate era, after Richard Nixon sowed fears about an “imperial presidency.” Selverstone is very familiar with that period, through his work with the Miller Center’s Recordings Program. He helped transcribe and analyze White House tapes that Nixon — among other presidents — made in secret.

“Whistleblower protection, inspectors general, the FBI — they’re all being neutered now. Not even Nixon would have done that,” Selverstone says.

President Nixon tested many presidential norms.

What does all this mean for Selverstone, and the Miller Center?

“We pride ourselves on being a non-partisan institution,” he says.

“We look at an array of challenges, and explore how the presidency addresses them in national life. As trust in government plummets, that’s of great concern to us at the center.

“We engage citizens from all walks of life, in both parties. We run programs that look at uses of presidential power, with people from both sides of the aisle.

“We convene scholars to think throught how we got here, what it means for us now, what might be done, and ask, will it stand the test of time?”

An important conference is set for the fall. Major figures from past administrations — Republican and Democratic — who “believe in good government” will offer insights into the past, present and future.

Based on the first 5 weeks of the administration of the 47th president of the United States, they’ll have plenty to talk about.

(“06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” This story — about a Staples grad who studies national politics — is one small example of what we do. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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

Posted on February 22, 2025 | 14 comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

That’s “kind” of a great idea!

Kings Highway’s “kindness rocks.”

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

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

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

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

Mike Dobbs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on MoMA CT, click here.

MoMA’s “On Fire” exhibition.

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

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

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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

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

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

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Roundup: High Winds, Presidents, Running …

Posted on February 17, 2025 | 3 comments

Today’s high winds have caused 48 power outages in Westport, and 39 in Weston.

This was the scene on Cedargate Lane, off Whitney Street:

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

Winds of 20 to 30 miles mph hour — with occasional gusts possible over 50 mph — are expected through 6 p.m.

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This news is very timely, for Presidents’ Day.

The University of Virginia’s Miller Center is a non-partisan center that studies  presidential scholarship.

On March 20 they’ll host a special session: “How the Best Did It: Leadership Lessons from Our Top Presidents.”

It’s special for another reason: 2 of the 3 participants are Staples High School graduates.

Speaker Talmage Boston (SHS ’72) is an attorney, historian and author. His latest book examines presidential leadership. He has been named a “Texas Super Lawyer” by Thompson Reuters every year since 2003, and among the “Best Lawyers in America” every year since 2013.

Moderator Marc Selverstone (SHS ’80) is the Miller Center’s Professor of Presidential Studies. A historian of the Cold War, he is the author of “The Kennedy Withdrawal: Camelot and the American Commitment to Vietnam.” As co-chair of the Center’s Presidential Recordings Program, Selverstone edits the secret White House tapes of Presidents Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon.

Click here for more information, and a link to the livestream and archived video.

Talmage Boston and Marc Selverstone.

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Registration is open for the Joggers Club’s Kids Running program.

It’s great for youngsters grads kindergarten through 8th grade looking to perfect their skills, as well as those looking just to burn energy.

The program runs every Sunday from April 6 to June 4, 4 to 5:15 p.m. at the Staples High School track. The cost is $149 for Joggers Club members, $199 for non-members.

Workouts range from the 100 yard dash to fun conversational runs.

Sessions begin with stretching and warmups, followed by coaching on speed, endurance and strength. Each day ends with relays and games.

Coaches include 5 experienced adult runners, and stars of Staples High School’s cross country and track teams.

All members receive a running shirt, trophy, and visit from an ice cream truck.

Email thejoggersclub@gmail.com for more information.

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They can’t believe it’s here. But the Staples Class of 1965 is planning their 60th reunion.

The main event is September 20, at the Patterson Club in Fairfield. Many more activities are also in the works.

A committee of 12 — including Westporters Merle Spiegel, Joey Kaempfer and Mike Greenberg — have been at work for a year already, determined to make it the best reunion in history. (Three members are expected from Australia!)

They’ve found good addresses for 230 classmates — but they need more. If you’re a ’65 grad — or know someone who is — email Staplesreunion1965@gmail.com.

The “new” Staples, circa 1959. By 1965, a new addition was built to the 2 buildings, on the right (south) side of the ones pictured. The auditorium (center left) and gym (largest building in the rear) are the only original structures that remain today.

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Ed Simek writes: “These 3 trees always catch my eye as I drive through Longshore. They’re on the fairway, separating the 8th and 9th holes.”

No one is playing golf there today. But it’s an intriguing photo nonetheless — perfect for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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And finally … sure, this is Presidents’ Day.

But it’s also National Condom Week.

Enjoy!

(Celebrate today — and every day — with “06880.” May we suggest a tax-deductible contribution, to support our work? Please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Politics, Sports, Weather

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Roundup: Shonda Rhimes, Old Dominion, Selma Miriam …

Posted on February 13, 2025 | 4 comments

Shonda Rhimes has stepped down as treasurer of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

The Emmy-winnng producer/director/screenwriter/author/CEO of Shondaland — and a Westport resident — resigned after President Trump fired the longtime president of the Washington arts institution, and was named chairman of the board by new members he had appointed.

Opera star Renée Fleming also stepped down from the board. And Ben Folds said he would resign as an adviser to the National Symphony Orchestra, which operates under the Kennedy Center umbrella.

Shonda Rhimes, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Jerri Graham Photography)

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Chairs of 4 major Westport bodies have written a joint letter.

Lee Caney (Board of Finance), Lee Goldstein (on behalf of the Board of Education), Paul Lebowitz (Planning & Zoning Commission) and Jeff Wieser (moderator, Representative Town Meeting), express their “disgust at the creation of the antisemitic snowman which appeared recently.

“That might be the act of one very misguided person, or it may be the view of other Westporters who do not respect the diversity of our vibrant community.

“We want to state as representatives of every member of this wonderful community, however, that the snowman has no place in Westport and is a despicable act. It is shameful that anyone would harbor such hate, and we hope it will never occur again in the town we love.”

Town leaders reacted to this snowman, built last Sunday at the Newman Poses Preserve.

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How do you celebrate winning 7 straight Country Music Association Group of the Year awards?

If you’re Old Dominion, you play 7 shows at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium.

And you give the money to charity.

The band — which includes guitarist/vocalist Brad Tursi, a 1997 Staples High School graduate — raised a cool $1.25 million.

They gave it (of course) 7 charities: MusiCares, Save the Music, Backline Care, Opry Trust Fund, CMA Foundation, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Ramsey Foundation.

And — this really shouldn’t be a side note — the “7 for 7 Residency” the band set a record for most consecutive shows in Ryman’s history.

“06880” reader Tricia Summers — who went to 2 of the shows, and loved them — sends along this photo of Tursi, at the Ryman:

(Photo/Tricia Summers)

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A memorial service for Selma Miriam — the co-founder of Bloodroot vegetarian restaurant, and a longtime advocate for feminism and social justice who died earlier this month at 89 — has been set.

It will be held at 6 p.m. Sunday, March 9, at the United Congregational Church of Bridgeport (2200 North Avenue).

Selma’s many friends and admirers are invited.

Selma Miriam

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Last Saturday’s food drive to stock the Homes with Hope pantry was a huge success.

As they do every year just before the Super Bowl, the Sunrise Rotary Club and Westport Police Department collected over 500 bags of food and supplies, and more than $1,500 in cash, outside Stop & Shop.

But it was not the only drive held that day.

Addison Moore — a 2023 Staples High School graduate, winner of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s Young Entrepreneur award, and now a pre-law student at Lafayette College — ran his own effort.

He organized it quickly, out of concern that a predicted snowstorm would impact the Gillespie Center’s stock.

He set up near the Westport Library, and in just a few hours collected a couple of hundred pounds of food.

It takes a village. Congratulations, Addison — and all who donated, to either food drive — for being part of ours.

Addison Moore, with his food collection.

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Susie Kowalsky read yesterday’s Roundup story on compostable cups and containers with interest.

She writes: “Rizzuto’s and Casa Me both use compostable containers for takeout and doggy bags. I’m sure there are more in town, but these are two I frequent.  They are sturdy, and do not leak.”

Details on a Casa Me compostable container.

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Presidents Day is known not for celebrating presidents, but for deals.

Mattresses, TVs, cars … they’re all on sale this weekend.

So are 25% 2-play subscriptions to the final shows of the Westport Country Playhouse’s “Season of Laughter.”

“Native Gardens” (February 18 through March 8) and “Theatre People” (March 25 through April 12) are the shows. Click here to learn more about them.

To access the discount, click here. A code will be provided beginning Saturday at westportplayhouse.org, and on Facebook (Westport Country Playhouse) and Instagram (wcplayhouse).

(In addition to the Presidents Weekend special promotion, the Playhouse regularly offers discounts on single tickets to students, senior citizens, educators, military and first responders, Indigenous peoples, professional playwrights, and groups, as well as options for pay-what-you-will and library passes.  Click here for details.

Playhouse seats are 25% off, this Presidents Day weekend. (Photo/Robert Benson)

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It’s not always easy for senior citizens to live in the suburbs.

Fortunately, Westport’s Department of Human Services has resources for residents who need help with outdoor tasks like yard work, snow removal and other light chores.

The office has a list of middle and high school students who want to help. The recommended fee is $16 per hour, but both sides are welcome to negotiate a different agreeable amount.

Seniors who require assistance with outdoor chores can call the Department of Human Services at 203-341-1050, or email humansrv@westportct.gov.

Middle and high school students who want to help can use the same contact information above. Written permission from a parent or guardian is required.

Local teens are eager to help seniors.

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A large crowd packed Riko’s Pizza last night, for a combined social event of the Westport and Fairfield Chambers of Commerce.

It was an introduction to the new Saugatuck restaurant for some, and a chance to network for all.

Chambers of Commerce, at Riko’s Pizza. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — gets dressed up for every holiday.

She especially loves Valentine’s Day.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

“06880” has chronicled Jolantha’s many intriguing costumes. Now you can see them all, in one place.

Her friend Hans Wilhelm has created a website — with photos, and her story.

It is quite a tail — er, tale.

Click here to see, and read.

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Daniel Purcell III — co-owner of Purcell Moving Inc., with his brother Larry, and former owner of Westport’s Sportsman’s Bar — died February 10. He was 82.

He enjoyed playing softball, boating with his family, tinkering with cars and trucks, long car rides, flea markets, and time with family and friends.

He played shuffleboard with his daughter Sandra at the Ukrainian Club in Southport on Monday nights He was also president and lifetime member of the Screwballs

Daniel is survived by his wife Stacy; daughters Laura Romano (Rob) and Sandra Scotto (Rob); granddaughters Ashley Gorkin (Elliot) and Kaitlyn Scotto; great-granddaughter Olivia Barbara Gorkin; 2 sisters, 4 brothers, sisters-in-law and brothers-in laws, nieces and nephews, and a great-nieces and great-nephews.He was predeceased by his first wife Barbara, and son Donald.

A celebration of life will be held at the Eagles Club (6 Mott Avenue, Norwalk) on June 10 (3 to 7 p.m.). Condolences may be left online. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.

Daniel Purcell

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Geese obey the sign. They refuse to land, and just skim the surface in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature image.

(Photo/Carl McNair)

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And finally … let’s hear it again for Westport’s own (sort of) Old Dominion (story above):

(From the Kennedy Center to Ryman Auditorium — if there’s a Westport angle to a story, “06880” finds it. If you appreciate our hyper-local, worldly coverage, please click here. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Local politics, Obituaries, Politics, Westport Country Playhouse

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[OPINION] Westport Veteran Says: Protect Civil Service Protections!

Posted on February 13, 2025 | 23 comments

Duane Cohen is a native Westporter. He still lives here. He writes:

With the recent dismantling of government agencies by the Trump administration, I felt compelled to dig up a memory I would rather keep buried.

However, my story is important to recognize the progress we have made, understand how far we have come, and realize how scary it is to have Trump dismantling our protections.

In December 1970, at age 17, I enlisted in the US Navy. At age 18 while on active duty, I was injured when I fell 10 feet on my back during a storm that also caused our ammunition ship to lose its radar antenna, and crack the hull.

Duane Cohen, in the Navy.

When we returned to the States, I sought medical treatment. It was determined I had hearniated a disc in my lower back. I still have it, 50 years later.

The disability was determined to be 10% disabling. With therapy and exercises I gained and maintained work to support myself and my family.

In the early ’70s, returning veterans were able to take a Post Office entrance exam at any time, and were given a preference for hiring.

I took the entrance exam. I was hired in a probationary job, loading and unloading trucks at the Danbury Post office for 90 days.

At the end of the probationary period, I was offered a position as a mail carrier in Norwalk.

I accepted the position, and was hired by the Norwalk postmaster on a Friday afternoon. I was told begin work on Monday morning.

When I reported for work on Monday, I was told to leave. I did not have a job. The medical examiner (who never examined me) said I was “not a candidate” because of my disability.

I was told I had no recourse, because there were no laws against discriminating against a disabled person

Duane Cohen, then …

I had nowhere to go, no one to help. I wrote letters. I went to the VA, Disabled American Veterans, and many military and legal organizations. I was told every time, “If the PO won’t hire you, it’s for your own good. You can’t do the job. Find something else.”

But I knew they were wrong. That is when I found someone at legal services in Norwalk who took my case for free.

My doctor and I certified that I could do what was required, carrying up to 35 pounds of mail.

Somehow, the story was picked up by the New Canaan newspaper. After the article came out, people started helping.

Letters were sent to Rosalynn Carter, the president’s wife, who was advocating for disabled veterans.

I received a letter from Senator Ribicoff, who asked to meet with me in his office. He arranged for me to be examined by the Post Office medical dxaminer, for the first time. I passed the exam.

My case went before a judge. It was determined that the Norwalk Post Office had hired me, and was now discriminating against a disabled employee by not allowing me to do my job. It was determined the postmaster had hired me before the chief medical officer was able to determine his discrimination, which he would have gotten away with. If the postmaster had not hired me, in those days they could have discriminated against me for being a disabled person, let alone a Vietnam veteran.

I won the case with all my back pay, night differential, and all benefits from the day I was hired,  including seniority.

… and now.

When I was asked where I would like to work, I wanted to be as far away from the Norwalk postmaster as I could be. I elected to work in Stamford.

Within a few months, the Norwalk postmaster was promoted. He became the Stamford postmaster, in charge of Darien, Westport and Greenwich.

He then unjustly fired me twice. He had to rehire me both times, with back pay. Fortunately, as a civil servant I was protected by the Equal Opportunity Commission and the Merit Systems Protection Board.

The EEOC and many other agencies in place to protect us from bullies like the postmaster are being eliminated by Trump.

That is why I dusted off this  memory. We cannot go back!

(“06880″‘s “Opinion” pages provide local perspectives on a wide variety of issues. If you appreciate this — or any other feature — of Westport’s premier blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Politics

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Pics Of The Day #2856

Posted on February 12, 2025 | 5 comments

This afternoon’s “Snowmen of Love” project — a ringing response to the antisemitic snowman discovered Sunday at Newman Poses Preserve — drew a spirited, creative, all-ages crowd to Saugatuck Congregational Church.

“06880” photographer Ryan Allen was there too. The Staples High School sophomore captured all the joy and fun of the day.

(All photos/Ryan Allen)

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Posted in Pic of the Day, Politics, religion

Tagged ,

Snowmen Of Love

Posted on February 12, 2025 | 18 comments

Despite just a couple of hours’ notice — and in the middle of a busy weekday afternoon — many Westporters showed up today, on the Saugatuck Congregational Church lawn.

Some were congregants; others were not. Some were in the prime of their snowman-making days; others were well past.

All went to work, turning last night’s snowfall into an even prettier site: “Snowmen of Love.”

That’s the name Rev. Kari Nicewander gave to a quickly conceived project.

The goal was to counter Sunday’s snowman of hate: a crude representation of Adolf Hitler — complete with swastika, mustache, and outstretched arm salute — at Newman Poses Preserve.

They had fun. They worked together. They drank hot chocolate.

And they sent a message to everyone passing by, on Post Road East: Our snowmen have hearts.

(All photos/Karen Kim)

(Photo/Harris Falk)

18 Comments

Posted in Politics, religion

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