More than a dozen state Department of Transportation representatives — including deputy commissioner Laoise King — came to Town Hall last night, for a public meeting about the future of the Cribari Bridge.
“Save Saugatuck From Semis” signs greeted residents at Town Hall yesterday.
They offered a dry presentation, focused on structural engineering issues.
The public could comment afterward, they said — but only at a table near the front, speaking individually to a transcriber.
The public howled.
DOT — perceived as inflexible by many residents, during discussions over the past few years about the 143-year-old span — relented.
Residents could indeed step up the microphone and address the entire audience– including the DOT staff — the moderator said.
The public applauded.
Part of the Town Hall crowd last night.
For nearly 2 hours, the public — Representative Town Meeting members, other citizens, even the owner of the small Bridge Street house that once belonged to the bridge tender – spoke.
Nearly all emphasized two things: traffic and safety. Environmental concerns, and fears of damage to homes from the vibrations of semis, were raised too.
Kristen Schneeman — who demanded that she be allowed to speak from the lectern, not the corner table — was first. Her comments set the tone for the night.
The RTM member noted that public opinion has recently converged around 2 needs: preventing tractor-trailer traffic from creating a “fourth lane of I-95 that jeopardizes safety, health, and quality of life well beyond the Bridge Street historic area,” and preserving the historic character of a local icon.
She said that CTDOT’s Highway Design Manual calls on designers to be “imaginative, innovative and flexible,” asking “if the oldest active movable highway bridge in Connecticut does not merit that flexibility, what does?”
RTM member Kristin Purcell and Westport Alliance for Saugatuck member Dara Lamb both said that state officials are encouraging more housing in Saugatuck, as a “Transit-Oriented District.”
Why then, they wondered, should tractor-trailers be added to an already congested area?
RTM member Kristin Mott Purcell.
Greens Farms Association president Art Schoeller called Greens Farms Road “already a go-to pass-through” for I-95. His organization, he said, opposed “any alternative that would allow trucks” in that neighborhood.
Carole Reichhelm drew applause when she thanked CTDOT for their extensive work on the project.
But, she added, “you’ve given waivers and allowed exemptions many times before, for a variety of reasons. Why wouldn’t the Cribari Bridge qualify for one?
“You can’t stop Waze,” she concluded. “But you can stop trucks. We want to work with you on this.”
Morley Boyd of the Westport Preservation Alliance held a copy of the CTDOT’s own Bridge Preservation Plan. (All photos/Dan Woog)
Public comment on the Cribari Bridge project (#0158-0214) is open through April 17.
Comments can be made online (click here); by email (James.Barrows@ct.gov); voicemail (860-594-2020), or mail (James Barrows, 2800 Berlin Turnpike, Newington, CT 06131).
To learn more about the Cribari Bridge project, click here.
Tonight’s main event — a public meeting about next steps for the Cribari Bridge, with representatives of the state Department of Transportation — begins at 6 p.m., in the Town Hall auditorium.
Can’t be there? It will be livestreamed at www.westportct.gov, and aired on Optimum channel 79.
The Cribari Bridge leads from Saugatuck (above) to Greens Farms. (Photo/John Videler for VidelerPhotography.com)
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Meanwhile, Saturday’s main event will be the state high school basketball championship.
The Staples boys team — already 2-time FCIAC champions — competes for their first Connecticut crown since 1937.
Tip-off is 8:30 p.m., at Mohegan Sun.
Sure, it’s late — and at the other end of the state. But it’s been nearly a century since Westporters have been able to cheer the Wreckers on in a state boys basketball final.
Go Wreckers! And go Westporters — see you Saturday night at Mohegan Sun!
The Staples boys basketball team. (Photo/Diane Lowman)
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Looking ahead: The theme for the Memorial Day parade float contest has been announced.
And — looking back — it’s a great one: “250 Years of Honor and Service.
Certificates will be awarded in 6 categories: Best Development of Theme, Best Youth Organization Float, Most Creative, Best Community Organization, Most Colorful, and Best Overall Float.
Of course, we already know the winner in the Overall category.
It’s the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.
After all, they’ve won for the last 250 years.
Another Y’s Men Memorial Day parade float winner. This one won in 2021. (Photo/Dan Woog)
In their continuing effort to UnPlastic Westport, Sustainable Westport will show “Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics.” The documentary explores the alarming spread of microplastics throughout our planet — and our bodies.
The event — following a sold-out showing at SXSW — is April 9 (6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy). A panel discussion will follow the screening.
Westport Professionals Network co-founders Lisa Fedorchak and Katie Gervasio, analyzed the current job market, at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.
The WPN connects local college students and young professionals with job and networking opportunities. Volunteers offer mentorship and advice, in person and online.
“Right now, this is a tough time,” said Fedorchak. “The young professional unemployment rate is 10.5%.”
Lisa Fedorchak (speaking) and Katie Gervasio, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
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Westport resident Vivek Kanthan wants to end the drought of Americans ascending to the top of Formula 1.
“06880” last checked in just over a year ago, when he signed with the Formula 4 team Griffin Core by Campos — the top-ranked team in that division.
Since then, Kanthan won his first F4 race, captured Rookie of the Year honors, and set several records, including the single lap speed mark in Mexico City.
Last weekend, the 15-year-old placed 1st at the Spanish Winter Championship.
For more than 4 decades, The Susan Fund has provided college scholarships to Fairfield Country residents who have been diagnosed with cancer at some time in their life, and attend (or plan to) enroll in an institution of higher learning.
The Fund was established in 1980 in memory of her Susan Lloyd, a Staples High School graduate who lost her battle with cancer. Since its founding, the organization has provided over $2 million in scholarships to more than 300 students.
The deadline is near — April 1 — for applications for the 2026 school year. To apply or to learn more about the Susan Fund, click here.
On May 2, the Nolan Team at Compass is sponsoring a town-wide tag sale. It will likely be Westport’s biggest ever.
Residents can participate by hosting a sale at their own home.
It’s a great way to get plenty of publicity. The Nolan Team handles all promotion (including a sign for your lawn or driveway). Your address will be included on a map, and all publicity.
Shoppers can plan their own route, and visit multiple sales all day.
To participate, and for more information, click here.
300 years of passageways in Weston is the topic of an April 19 book talk at the Weston History & Culture Center.
Artist Julie O’Connor will discuss her 2008 book, “Doors of Weston.”
The lecture is free, but registration is required. Click here.
doors are accessible “portals” to understanding the evolution of Weston and its people over the last three centuries, as we celebrate America and Weston since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The Center says, “doors are accessible ‘portals’ to understanding the evolution of Weston and its people over the last 3 centuries, as we celebrate America and Weston since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.”
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between March 11 and 17.
A 44-year-old Woodside, New York man was charged with 2 counts of larceny, following 2 shoplifting incidents at Walgreens. Both involved allergy medications. One was of $2,659 worth of merchandise; the other was $1,964. He was extradited after being incarcerated for an unrelated matter in New York.He was held on a $40,000 bond.
A 50-year-old Redding man was charged with sexual assault, after a complaint by a restaurant employee that a customer had used his hand to pinch the victim’s buttocks.
A 44-year-old Plymouth, Massachusetts man was charged with failure to appear. He was held on a $25,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 9 citations
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 6
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5
Failure to obey stop sign: 5
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 4
Failure to renew registration: 4
Failure to obey traffic commission regulations: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without tint inspection: 2
With temperatures in the 20s this morning, few people were thinking about the beach.
Except for non-residents hoping to buy one of the 450 beach stickers available to anyone living outside of Westport and Weston.
They went on sale at 9 a.m. today. By 7:15, a small crowd had already formed outside the Parks & Recreation Department office at Longshore.
(Photo/Carm Roda)
Sales to Westport and Weston residents — with no limit — begin tomorrow (Thursday), at 9 a.m. Click here for fees.
If you bought emblems or registered for programs in previous seasons, your online account is already set up. Click here to log in. Then select “Memberships,” and follow the prompts.
If you have not bought emblems or registered for programs previously, click here. Then click the “Purchase Now” icon on the right.
Emblems will be mailed in 14-21 days. They are not required until May 1.
The Board of Finance’s next “office hours” — open times at which residents can chat with a member about questions or concerns — are tomorrow (Thursday).
There are 2 sessions — 10 to 11 a.m., and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. — at the Westport Library’s Room 213.
Last month’s office hours drew a diverse crowd — including 2 Staples High School students, doing a civics project.
“We had very productive conversations,” says BOF member Allyson Stollenwerck.
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Also tomorrow: Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas continues the “Your State, Your Business” speaker series.
She’ll speak at the Westport Library (Thursday, 11 a.m.). Thomas will describe her wide-ranging job, followed by a discussion and Q-and-A.
The 3-part series — sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — kicked off with state comptroller Sean Scanlon. It concludes April 2, with Attorney General William Tong.
Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas
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A reader writes: “I attended Coleytown Elementary School during the 1976 bicentennial year. We buried time capsules there, but I don’t know exactly where (I recall a ceremony by a flagpole in front of the school).
“I’m guessing they’re still buried. I reached out to the school, and am waiting to hear back.
“It would be interesting to see these time capsules opened and shared, if at all feasible.”
So, “06880” has 2 thoughts:
Does anyone remember the Coleytown El time capsules — specifically, where they were buried?
How about any other time capsules in town?
The 250th anniversary of our nation seems like a good time to unearth them.
If you have any ideas, now is the “time” to share them. Please click “Comments” below.
Coleytown Elementary School. Is there a time capsule there?
The Staples High School girls basketball fell 5 points short of the state championship game last night.
The #3-seeded Wreckers fell 67-62 to #10 Bristol Central, at Bethel High.
Staples finishes 23-4. Two of those losses were to Greenwich, including the FCIAC championship.
Staples coach Tommy Sparks told The Ruden Report, “We’re obviously proud of the fight. We were down a few times in the game where it looked like it could have been over, but the girls continued to execute, the girls continued to defend. It was a pleasure just to watch the resilience and the growth from these girls throughout the season. Obviously, it was a special season for us.” Click here for the full Ruden Report story (paywall).
On Monday, the Wrecker boys basketball team advanced to their final. Ranked first in Division I, they’ll seek their first state crown since 1937 this Saturday, 8:30 p.m. at Mohegan Sun, against #2 West Haven.
Staples 2026 girls basketball team.
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MoCA\CT’s celebration of “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — the title of their current exhibition — continues with a “community conversation” March 26 (5:30 p.m.).
Exhibit co-curator Ive Covaci leads a panel of noted musicians, artists, educators and scholars in an exploration of how jazz and blues continue to inspire creativity across art forms — and within our own community.
Panelists include: Brian Torff (bassist, composer and Fairfield University music professor; Dr. Richard Epstein (vice president, Jazz Society of Fairfield County and longtime WPKN host); Kevin Mazzarella (Staples High School band director and trumpeter), and Caitlin von Schmidt (musician, graphic designer, and daughter of artist Eric von Schmidt, whose works are the foundation of the “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibition.
Three generations of Westport Pardons — former Fordham University Gaelic Society president Ed, son Chris and grandson Conor — enjoyed yesterday’s parade in New York.
And we’re sure Conor’s teacher will “pardon” him for taking an afternoon off to salute his heritage!
Staples High School Class of 1994 graduate Lisa Bastoni was featured at First Folk Sunday in 2024. She returns October 4.
In the meantime, she’s written “There Are No Kings in America.” Suzanne Sheridan — founder of First Folk Sunday — will perform Lisa’s song at the “No Kings” rally on Jesup Green (March 28). Suzanne Sheridan at the NO KINGS Rally at Jesup Green on Saturday March 28.
PS: Creativity runs in Lisa’s family. She’s the granddaughter of noted Westport artists Walter and Naiad Einsel.
Faherty honors World Down Syndrome Day this Saturday (March 21) with a special Sweet P Bakery pop-up event.
From noon to 2 p.m. at the Main Street store, Sweet P founder Andrea Pecoriello and baker Charlie Biondo will serve some of their favorite goods, for purchase.
The bakery’s mission is to provide training and employment for adults with disabilities.
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Westporters know Frank Murgalo as “Santa Claus” at our annual Holiday Stroll (Shhhh … don’t tell the kids!)
He’s also a Marine Corps veteran, who donates time and energy to many excellent causes.
Now — at 82 — he’s written a memoir.
“My Mid-Life Crisis at 82: A Life of Mischief, Mayhem and Making It Work…” chronicles his wild, adventurous life. He’s been an auditor, fishmonger, actor and stand-up comedian. He writes about stopping Super Bowl XVII, being tackled by the FBI, and outwitting the State Department — all with an inspiring message of resilience, risk and laughter.
On April 7 (2:45 p.m.), Frank gives a book talk at the Senior Center. It’s free, but register for a seat: 203-341-5099.
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On Sunday business owners, building managers and tenants of Riverside Corners Westport gathered at Arezzo Ristorante to honor the life of Alon Panovka.
The longtime building owner and supporter of the arts died recently.
Although Alon lived in Atlanta, he spent significant time in the area. In addition to the property at Post Road West and Riverside Avenue, he owned the former post office building on Post Road East, which he redeveloped.
Known by many tenants for his thoughtful stewardship and quiet generosity, Alon also helped launch The Norwalk Art Space, which offers free art and music education to underserved youth.
Alon Panovka gathering, at Arezzo. (Hat tip and photo/Ken Warren)
Longtime Westport resident Dominick Boccanfuso died Saturday. He was 86.
The New York native moved here with his family in 1949. A proud Merchant Marine officer, Dominick was licensed to pilot vessels up to 100 gross tons. He had a lifelong passion for boating and fishing, and shared that love with family and friends.
An entrepreneur from a young age, Dominick began his career at 18, opening his first gas station with his brothers, Giuseppe Jr. and Crescienzo.
Their drive extended beyond business, ultimately leading them to build one of the fastest race cars in its class. Dominick led this effort, designing and rebuilding the car’s power plant each week to ensure it consistently ran down the track with fresh power — a testament to his ambition and mechanical skill.
In 1970 Dominick and his brothers founded Boccanfuso Bros., which quickly became a staple in the Westport community. It reflected their honesty, fairness, dedication, work ethic and strong family values.
Dominick was deeply committed to giving back. For over a decade, he sponsored Westport boys and girls Little League baseball teams. He served as a volunteer firefighter from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, and was a dedicated usher at Assumption Church during holidays. He and his nephew Giuseppe also supported the Swim Across the Sound cancer benefit by escorting participants on their boat.
Beginning in 1982, Dominick spent winters in Hallandale, Florida, with his mother Anna, participating in fundraising efforts at St. Matthew’s Church. He continued this tradition until 2006, following her passing.
He is survived by Giuseppe A. Boccanfuso III, Zhanna Boccanfuso, Giuseppe A. Boccanfuso IV, Victoria I. Boccanfuso, and Valerie I. Boccanfuso; his sister Sophia Freitag; nieces Mary, Anna, Angel, Ann Marie, Jo-Anne, Roselyn, Annie, Pamela Jo, Anna Maria, and their spouses; nephews Giuseppe D. and Crescienzo J., Billy and Joseph Oboy, Vincent and Joseph DiMeglio, and many grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Giuseppe Jr. and Crescienzo, and sisters Carmela B. Oboy and Mary DiMeglio.
Visitation will be held this Friday (March 20, 4-8 p.m. Harding Funeral Home). Funeral services will take place Saturday (March 21, 9 a.m., Assumption Church), followed by interment at Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road.
As Westporters prepare for Thursday’s public meeting with the Connecticut Department of Transportation (March 19, 6 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), nearly 1,400 residents have already made their views known. (They have also donated $2,455 to the cause.)
They signed an online petition organized by Werner Liepolt. The former Westport teacher — who lives on Bridge Street just few hundred yards from the 143-year-old span — initiated it due to what he calls “a public perception that CTDOT had not provided opportunity for public involvement.”
Werner Liepolt painted this image of the Cribari Bridge.
Liepolt asks for “federal oversight to guarantee that all alternatives are evaluated and that the richly historic and irreplaceable nature of the bridge is given due consideration.”
He has submitted his petition into the official public comment record for the Environmental Assessment currently under review by CTDOT and the Federal Highway Administration.
Under federal review procedures, public comments and petitions are part of the record considered as agencies evaluate project alternatives and potential effects on the surrounding area (including the Bridge Street National Register Historic District).
The meeting is part of the ongoing environmental and historic review process for the Cribari Bridge project.
The full petition — active until April 17 — says: “I am a resident of the Bridge Street National Register District, home to the iconic William F. Cribari Bridge—individually listed in the National Register of Historic Places that has been an integral part of our community’s identity for 141 years.
“This historic bridge, oldest operable bridge of its kind in the USA, nestled in Westport, Connecticut, is on the brink of being replaced by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) without an essential public engagement process.
“Despite its historic status, there has been a disturbing lack of transparency and involvement from the public, disregarding the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 Section 106 review procedures.
“The William F. Cribari Bridge is more than just a piece of infrastructure; it is a cherished symbol of our heritage, tying together the historical fabric of our neighborhood.
Cribari Bridge (Photo/Patricia McMahon)
“The sudden decision to replace such an irreplaceable landmark raises concerns not only within our community but also nationwide, as it sets a precedent for how historic sites might be handled without proper oversight.
“Why hasn’t there been an effort to engage the community in this critical decision-making process? The lack of transparency undermines the principles of fair public policy and overlooks the historical significance that this bridge brings to our region.
“It is imperative that the federal government steps in to ensure that the CTDOT considers all perspectives, from engineering experts to local residents, and follows due process in accordance with National Historic Preservation guidelines.
“The preservation of the William F. Cribari Bridge is essential for maintaining the cultural and architectural identity of our region, and its replacement should not proceed without an exhaustive review and input from all stakeholders involved.
Manually opening the Cribari Bridge.
“We need comprehensive federal oversight to guarantee that all alternatives are evaluated and that the richly historic and irreplaceable nature of the bridge is given due consideration.
“I urge you to sign this petition to demand federal oversight over the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s plans to replace the William F. Cribari Bridge.
“Together, we can safeguard the integrity of our cherished historic landmark and ensure a democratic process respects both our heritage and community voice.
“Let us be vigilant in protecting our past for the generations to
come.”
Among the items on tomorrow’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (Monday, March 16, 6 p.m., Zoom): a pre-application submitted by Richard Redniss, to “discuss some of the ways for Westport to positively respond to the requirements of 8002 prior to 7/1/2026.”
“8022” is the legislation that — among other things — incentivizes towns to take steps to allow more housing, requires towns to create housing growth plans, and eliminates most off-street parking requirements for developments of less than 12 units.
Redniss — principal of Redniss & Mead land use consultants — tells “06880” that the new regulation gives towns .25 of a moratorium point (toward meeting the 10% threshold for affordable housing units) for any new multi-family housing of between 2 and 9 units.
“It’s a carrot by the state” to help solve the broader housing crisis, regardless of cost.
At the P&Z session, Redniss will describe 3 projects he’s working on now. One involves either 17 units (3 of them deemed “affordable,” by state formula), or 9 (with none affordable).
Another — in a “beautiful downtown location” — could have 15 units; by current regulations to earn moratorium points, 2 would have to be affordable. However, Redniss says, because of the cost of land on the river, and with floodplain and slope issues, the economics with 2 affordable units would be “very difficult.”
8002 is “a big learning curve for everyone” — developers and town officials alike, Redniss notes. “How do we deal with this in a practical way?”
The bill — whose initial provisions take effect July 1 — is “very complicated. It’s 100 pages long.”
He and the P&Z begin discussing the implications — for only those projects with between 2 and 9 units — on Monday.
Rick Redniss
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The Westport Fire Department is filled with heroes.
But 5 are official “Hero to Heroes.”
They’re graduates of “Hero to Hero,” a non-profit that help highly qualified military members transition to first responder careers. It’s a win-win-win — for the servicemembers, their employers, and the entire community.
On March 28 (5:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club), a special event will raise awareness of “Hero to Hero” — and raise funds for an independent film, which will raise even more funds for the organization.
The “Blue Bunny” film project is led by Rita Marcocci, a Westport resident and award-winning producer.
It’s a moving story of sacrifice and friendship, weaving between Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the present-day bond between a former commander and his soldier.
Speaking of heroes: Congratulations to Dave Farrell!
Westport’s police chief was inducted Thursday into Notre Dame Prep’s Alumni Hall of Fame.
The recognition highlights his leadership, dedication to service, and lasting impact within the Westport Police Department, and the broader community too.
Westport Police Chief Dave Farrell
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Brubeck comes to Mo\CT.
Not Dave — but close.
The Brubeck Brothers Quartet — led by brothers Chris and Dan — headline “A Speakeasy Jazz Night” April 12 (6 p.m.).
Concert-goers will be surrounded by the art of MoCA’s current exhibition, Art, Jazz + The Blues.”
VIP tickets ($150 per person; tables and lounges for 4 and 6) include a meet-and-greet with the musicians; a special edition t-shirt by Westport artist Miggs Burroughs; preferred seating; personal bar service. and signature cocktails and light bites by A&S Westport.
General admission ($50) includes drinks and light bites.
As St. Patrick’s Day looms — with Passover and Easter not far behind — Dave Briggs spent yesterday taking down his Christmas lights.
But he has neighbors whose lights are still up. And every night, they’re on.
The TV journalist/social media master asks: “What’s the latest date you’ve taken your holiday decorations down? At some point, is it okay just to leave them up for next year?”
Click here or below to see his Instagram on these important questions — and to answer them.
Much of March is usually pretty gross, weather-wise.
It’s windy. The skies are often gray. There are a couple of tantalizingly nice spring days, then we snap back to a reminder that it’s still a few weeks away.
But this March, things are even grosser.
Enormous piles of snow — calcified into a hard, brown mass by tons of sand that froze in January, and shows no signs of thawing any time soon — loom in parking lots and on roadsides all around town.
They’re ugly. They’re depressing. And — not for nothing — they take up valuable parking spots.
This is the scene at a medical office complex on Riverside:
(Photo/Dan Woog)
Others — at the YMCA and Staples, on Imperial Avenue and nearly everywhere else — are bigger, darker, even uglier.
So what’s ahead?
Today’s high will be 44. Tomorrow it will reach 58 — with a chance of thunderstorms.
The rest of the week, look for 30s and 40s.
With partly cloudy skies, every day.
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Speaking of which: Is this (below) just a pile of all sand?
Or sand covering snow?
Whatever. Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image is a reminder that — whatever is going on in the rest of town, and no matter what the season — this place is always there for us.
(Photo/Mary Lou Roels)
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And finally … in honor of Dave Brubeck, whose sons will be playing soon at MoCA\CT (story above):
Congratulations to the Staples High School boys and girls basketball teams!
Both pulled away in the second half from solid opponents in last night’s state tournament quarterfinals, before raucous crowds in a home doubleheader.
Both now move on to the state semis — a first in school history.
Staples’ boys — ranked #1 in Division I — downed #8 New London 56-35. That vaults coach Dave Goldshore’s squad into a matchup against #5 Notre Dame Prep-Fairfield.
The girls of coach Tommy Sparks — seeded 3rd in Division II — topped South Windsor 42-35.
The neutral sites and times of the semifinals will be announced soon. Up next: #10 Bristol Central.
If you want to learn more about overdoses — and who doesn’t? — check out “CT Save a Life Day.”
The April 8 event (6 p.m., Westport Library) is organized through the Westport Prevention Coalition.
You’ll get liquor stickers and lock bags to prevent access to abusable substances, parent handbooks, and brief training to recognize and respond to an overdose (with a free Narcan kit). Click here to RSVP.
Narcan nasal spray.
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Speaking of Positive Directions: They’ve partnered with Westport Together, to sponsor a “Night Out” for high school students who live in Westport, or attend school here.
The March 27 event (7 to 9 p.m., Westport Weston Family YMCA) includes an open gym (basketball, volleyball and more), games, pizza from Riko’s, dessert from Stew Leonard’s, door prizes (including Starbucks gift cards, Stew’s ice cream, golf simulator time, and a Modern Dermatology facial), and music.
Speaking of the YMCA: Professional ballroom dancer Karina Smirnoff (“Dancing With the Stars”) offers a special ballroom master class on Tuesday (March 17, 10:45 to 11:45 a.m.).
Open to all ages and experience levels, it includes a performance, Q-and-A and photo opportunity. The cost is $40 for Y members, $50 for non-members.
New restaurants are opening at a fast clip downtown.
But one just left: Gogi.
The Korean barbecue spot — located in an out-of-the-way spot, inside Bedford Square behind Emmy Squared — is not completely closed.
They’ve relocated to Shelton.
(Hat tip and photo/Sal Liccione)
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The United Methodist Church is located on Rabbit Hill. The previous owner was Robert Lawson — author/illustrator of the beloved children’s series.
So it’s the perfect site for an Easter egg hunt on March 28 (2 p.m.). All kids are welcome. Click here to register.
There’s a suggested donation of non-perishable food, for local pantries.
Easter egg hunt, at the United Methodist Church.
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Speaking of kids: 2 new family-friendly shows come this spring to the Westport Country Playhouse.
“Click Clack Moo” — based on the Caldecott Honor Book by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin, aimed at pre-K through 4th graders — is set for 2 shows May 16 (1 and 4 p.m.).
“Pete the Cat” follows on June 7. It’s recommended for pre-K through grade 3.
Speaking of entertainment: Westport and Weston will have a strong presence at next weekend’s 6th annual Norwalk Film Festival.
Board member (and Staples High graduate) Jennifer Bangser notes some of the connections:
Friday, March 20: The opening night Sundance-premiered film “Little Richard: I Am Everything” takes a deep dive into the life and career of the charismatic, complicated musician. Emmy and Peabody Award-winning filmmaker/novelist/playwright/essayist/producer/professor Trey Ellis will be in conversation after the film with director/producer Lisa Cortes. Email info@norwalkfilmfestival.org for ticket information.
Saturday, March 21: Staples graduate Cynthia Gibb’s short film “Straight Laced” will be shown during the Connecticut Shorts Block (12 to 2 p.m.). It’s the story of a conscientious honors student who buckles under academic pressure in her town of overachievers and overearnest parents.
In the 2 to 4 p.m. Narrative Shorts Block, “Sit with Me While I Die” stars award-winning actor James Naughton of Weston. He plays a priest who must reconcile his lifelong dogmatic views on suffering with real-life pain.
The Norwalk Film Festival includes many more films, plus workshops and an audience-voted awards ceremony.
Chris Delorier writes: “Help, before someone gets seriously hurt!
“I live on High Point Road. At least once a week a near accident occurs from people blowing through the stop sign down the hill on Long Lots Road.
“There are many new drivers every year, many kids walking to school or on bikes. My fear is nothing will be done until it’s too late.
“Half, I bet, are innocent mistakes. It’s a tough sign to see. On Cross Highway at Bayberry Lane they put in flashing solar stop signs. At a minimum that should be done at Long Lots and High Point.
“Let’s not wait for a life to be taken. This seems like a no-brainer.”
Drivers coming down the Long Lots Road hill often ignore the stop sign (right) at High Point Road.
Congratulations to Staples’ 8 Students of the Month: seniors Isabel Jo and Henry Wood, juniors Samantha Armentano and Catalina Zapata, juniors Olivia Flinn and Nickolas Glekas, and freshmen Maya Luo and Sophia Muriel.
The honor recognizes “students who help make Staples a welcoming place for peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the community: the type of creative, thoughtful, conscientious students that keep the high school together, enabling it to grow and thrive.”
Recipients are nominated by teachers, in recognition of hard work, friendliness to staff and students, and positive contributions inside and outside the classroom.
Students of the Month (from left): Catalina Zapata, Samantha Armentano, Olivia Flinn, Isabel Jo, Maya Luo, Sophia Muriel, Henry Wood.
Journalist/author/former “Good Morning America” host Joan Lunden spoke about her new memoir — “Joan: Life Beyond the Script” — on Thursday, at the Westport Library.
With sports reporter and Westport resident Lindsay Czarniak, Lunden talked about life transitions, and the importance of embracing change.
Joan Lunden and Lindsay Czarniak on the Westport Library stage; “Good Morning America” stage is behind. (Photo/Susan Garment)
The Sally was a Fairfield County merchant sloop that was converted into a Revolutionary War vessel.
It played an important role in espionage, raids against the British, and privateering in Long Island Sound during the The Sally – and was involved in Nathan Hale’s ill-fated spy mission.
On April 11 (2 p.m., Weston History & Culture Center), historian Edward Eckert discusses The Sally. The event is free, but registration is required. Click here.
At 3:15 p.m the same day, Laura Clark Murray speaks on for “Genetic Genealogy in Action: From Researching Patriots to Solving Cold Cases.”
It too is free, but registration is required. Click here.
Merchant ship, back in the day.
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State Representative Lucy Dathan of New Canaan hopes to add Westport to her list of constituents.
She has joined the race to succeed Ceci Maher, for the 26th State Senate seat.
Dathan now chairs the Government Oversight Committee, and sits on both the Appropriations and Human Services Committees. Beyond her legislative work, she has been a CPA and CFO for start-ups.
The 26th district includes Westport, Weston, and all or part of 6 other towns. Weston First Selectwoman Sam Nestor is also running for the seat.
State Representative Lucy Dathan
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo is a reflective shot of Sherwood Mill Pond.
Much more wildlife will return soon, to the tranquil 84-acre tidal pond and estuary.
(The music will never die. And — thanks to continued reader support — let’s hope “06880” won’t either. To help keep us alive, please make a tax-deductible contribution by clicking here. Thank you all!)
A second Westporter has joined the race to succeed State Representative Jonathan Steinberg.
Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein joins Matthew Mandell in the campaign for the 136th District. Steinberg is retiring.
Goldstein — a Yale University graduate and former high school English teacher, writer, editor and manager of a family foundation, and volunteer with the Westport Arts Advisory Committee and Mercy Learning Center — filed paperwork on Thursday.
“Westport deserves experienced, thoughtful leadership that protects our schools, strengthens our communities, and takes the rising cost of living seriously,” says Goldstein. “I’m running to bring that leadership to Hartford.”
As BOE chair for 4 years, Goldstein helped lead the renovation of Coleytown Middle School, plan for a new Long Lots Elementary School and Stepping Stones Preschool, and develop a comprehensive capital improvement plan.
School budgets have passed unanimously, which she attributes to collaboration she fostered between the Board of Ed, Board of Finance and Representative Town Meeting.
Lee Goldstein
However, she notes, “Federal instability threatens funding, public health and safety, education, reproductive rights, and common-sense gun safety laws. Connecticut needs steady, values-driven leaders in Hartford who recognize what’s at stake and bring people together to solve problems.”
Goldstein tells “06880”: “I am proud of our remarkable schools. But over the past 4 years on the Board, I’ve learned that more depends on relationships and trust than on any single decision.
“Whether we’re aligning budgets with long-term priorities, advancing overdue capital work or developing complex strategic plans, progress comes from listening, persistence, and a willingness to bring people together around shared goals. The most durable decisions are rarely the most dramatic ones — they’re the ones people have a hand in creating themselves.
“What is drawing me toward Hartford right now is a mix of optimism and urgency. I think Connecticut has the capacity to respond thoughtfully to this moment -strengthening public education, protecting reproductive rights, public health, and gun safety laws, addressing affordability pressures, and helping communities plan responsibly for the long term.
“But optimism only matters if you’re willing to take responsibility for what comes next. Over time, I’ve come to feel that the next phase of the work I care about needs to happen at the state level.”
Speaking of Staples: A Better Chance of Westport — the program that provides educational opportunities to academically gifted and highly motivated young men of color — has 2 important upcoming events.
On March 21 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), you can “Shop for a Cause” at Fred, the 30 Post Road East women’s clothing store. 10% of all sales that day will benefit ABC.
It’s a great chance to find the perfect outfit for the organization’s “Dream Event” (May 7, 6:30 p.m., House on the Hill, Norwalk). It’s an inspiring evening, saluting the young scholars of A Better Chance, who enrich our community every day.
“Greens” Farms Church was an appropriate setting Monday, for Club203’s “Luck o’ the Irish” celebration.
A large crowd of adults with disabilities, and their friends, enjoyed green-themed delicious foods from Lyfe Café, desserts by Avery, and tunes from the Especially Everyone band. Attendees also made pots of gold, with MOCA\CT.
Volunteers — including many Rotarians — brought great spirit, laughter and energy to the bash.
A small part of the large green crowd at Monday’s Club203 event.
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Yesterday afternoon, Westport Police searched for a man who left a facility against the wishes of medical control.
He was located on Post Road East, near Myrtle Avenue.
The number of police vehicles and officers made the response look more significant than it otherwise might be, due to its proximity to headquarters and its occurrence during a shift change.
Police vehicles on Post Road East. (Photo/EJ Zebro)
This year’s Democratic Women of Westport “Souper Luncheon” welcomes the co-chairs of the Connecticut House of Representatives Reproductive Rights Caucus: Jillian Gilchrest and Matt Blumenthal.
The event is March 27 (11:30 a.m.). A $40 donation supports Staples Tuition Grants’ DWW scholarship. RSVP by email: dww06880@gmail.com.
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Red Hot Mamas — the online community for menopause information founded by Westporter Karen Giblin — is looking for baby boomers to be part of a special Oprah Winfrey podcast conversation focused on “generations.”
The taping is tomorrow (March 12, 11 a.m.) in New York City.
Email info@eventstics.com if interested. Include your first and last name, email address and cell phone.
Our favorite nature photographer, Lou Weinberg, writes: “In addition to rooting for the UConn Huskies in the upcoming March Madness, I’m rooting for the comeback of the rusty red and blue: Eastern bluebirds.
“They scored a big win at the Newman Poses Preserve on Monday. Eastern bluebirds seem to be rebounding well. Conservation efforts and bird boxes help. Protecting open space and planting natives are important factors in their recovery as well. Go Bluebirds!”
Weston First Selectwoman Sam Nestor has her eye on a new prize: the State Senate.
Yesterday, she filed paperwork for the 26th District seat currently held by Ceci Maher. The 2-term senator is not seeking re-election. Both Nestor and Maher are Democrats.
The district includes Westport, Weston and 6 other towns. State Representative Lucy Dathan of New Canaan also announced yesterday.
“After Senator Maher shared her plans, my family and I took time to thoughtfully consider what the future may hold,” Nestor says.
“I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Senator Maher and deeply appreciate her thoughtfulness, hard work, and graciousness in public service. While serving as First Selecwoman of Weston has been an honor, I believe I have so much more to offer our communities.”
Weston 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor
As her town’s chief executive, Nestor has secured and overseen more than $30 million in grants and funding.
“These experiences have given me a clear understanding of both the opportunities and the challenges towns face in working with the state,” Nestor notes.
“I know how state policies can help communities thrive — and I’ve also seen where unnecessary obstacles can actually make it harder for towns to meet the needs of their residents.”
Pressures on local communities include rising healthcare costs for municipal and school employees, plus infrastructure, energy and maintenance expenses.
“Every town is working hard to keep communities affordable, maintain strong schools, and manage rising costs responsibly,” she said. “I will bring a town leader’s perspective to the legislature and focus on policies that support municipalities rather than burden them.”
Before becoming first selectwoman, Nestor served on Weston’s Board of Selectmen and Board of Education.
“Those of us who live in Weston know that our lives and communities extend well beyond town lines,” Nestor says. “I know and care deeply about the towns of this district, and I look forward to listening carefully to residents in every community as we work together towards solutions that benefit all of us.”
The first candidate has declared an intention to succeed Jonathan Steinberg as Westport’s state representative.
Matthew Mandell — a 20-year member of the Representative Town Meeting (RTM), and the longtime executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — today announced his candidacy for in the 136th District.
Calling himself an advocate for open space preservation and historic protection, Mandell released a video outlining his priorities and reasons for seeking the seat.
In the video he emphasizes the importance of maintaining local control over town planning decisions, while also addressing the need for additional affordable and workforce housing in Westport.
He points to his decades of civic involvement and grassroots leadership as preparation for representing the community in Hartford.
Matthew Mandell
“I have always had Westport’s best interests in mind,” Mandell says. “From preserving the Partrick Wetlands and saving the Kemper Gunn House to creating unique town festivals and most recently spearheading the establishment of an Affordable Housing Fund, I have worked to strengthen this community. I believe I can do even more for Westport by serving at the state level.”
Mandell says his campaign will focus on listening closely to residents and community stakeholders, gathering their concerns and ideas, and working collaboratively to move thoughtful solutions forward.
Additional priorities include strengthening consumer advocacy for residents, and advancing environmental initiatives such as expanded alternative energy and improved recycling and sustainability programs.
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