When selling their homes, many owners want to reach as broad an audience as possible. Real estate websites, social media, even a dedicated page for YourAddressHere.com help spread the word.
But not every seller wishes – or hopes – to cast a wide net.
That’s where “private exclusives” (also called “whisper listings,” “pocket listings,” “off-market listings” and “withheld from MLS listings”) come in.
Our friends at KMS Team at Compass explain: “Offering discretion and quality, private exclusive provide the flexibility to share details about your property to selective audiences, without divulging details to the general public.”
In this area, MLS regulations allow a “private exclusive” to be activated on market after a minimum of 30 days of private marketing
Sure, you can find this $10.8 million, 6-bedroom, 7-bathroom, 7,000-square foot home on Owenoke Park on local realtors’ Multiple Listing Service. But other great properties are unlisted “private exclusives.”
That allows sellers to test the market. Meanwhile, realtors gather insights about pricing or presentation, making any necessary edits to the offering.
Private exclusives also allow owners of unique properties to spend time locating the ideal buyer. At the same time, they feel a sense of security that photos and floor plans are not available to the public.
Prospective buyers who tour private exclusive homes understand that they’re getting an early look. That can lead to attractive, pre-public listing offers.
We’ve all heard the three keys to real estate: “location, location, location.” For buyers and sellers alike, it’s good to know that every property is not necessarily located where everyone can find it.
Among Bill Scheffler’s many hobbies, one of the most interesting — for “06880” readers, anyway — is his collection of postcards.
Dating back to days when they were simple, inexpensive means of communication (and perhaps demonstrating, long before social media and FOMO, that the sender was having a great time), Scheffler’s postcards show scenes of Compo Beach, the Post Road, and a variety of inns.
There are also many private homes. Occasionally they bear names; more often, just an identification like “Greens Farms” or “Saugatuck.”
Here are 3. Most likely, the handsome houses succumbed long ago to the teardown trend.
But if you recognize any of them — or know their back story — click “Comments” below.
“Residence of Jas. Dunne, Sr., Greens Farms, Conn.”
“Residence of Mrs. H. B. Hobson, Green (sic) Farms, Conn.”
The simple message on the other side of the Hobson card, 104 years ago.
There is no identifying information on this postcard. However …
… it was mailed in 1911 from Saugatuck, to “Miss D. Adams,” in Greens Farms (no address given). Could she be related to the Adams Academy family, who lived on Long Lots Road? Or was she Dorothy Adams, longtime principal of the Bridge Street (later Saugatuck) Elementary School?
(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
In the wake of several recent controversies — including the 1756 home at 125 Riverside Avenue, whose demolition has been delayed for 6 months — there has been renewed interest in Westport’s Historic District Commission.
What is it? What does it do — and not do? Chair Grayson Braun and vice chair Scott Springer explain:
The Historic District Commission is an appointed group staffed by volunteers. We work to promote the interest of historic preservation throughout Westport, ensure that local historic districts and properties are preserved, and advise other town agencies in matters related to historic preservation.
We also review applications for demolition permit waivers for buildings that are 50 years or older, and over 500 square feet.
As a recent “06880” post illustrated, a quick glance at our monthly agenda illustrates the unfortunate fact that we spend too much of our time reviewing these demolition permit waiver applications. Demolition exacts an enormous toll on the environment, and on the historic architecture that makes older neighborhoods distinctive and viable.
Demolition permit at 125 Riverside Avenue. It’s been delayed for 180 days by the Historic District Commission. (Photo/Charlie Tirreno)
The 5th Amendment to the United States Constitution protects us from the seizure of private property. It enhances our freedom, provides us security and helps to protect our personal financial investments.
What it does not do is offer people the right to use their property in a way that harms the rights or welfare of others. Richard Moe, former president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, frequently talked about the devastation to communities that is caused by demolition.
He said, “Livability is diminished as trees are removed, backyards are eliminated and sunlight is blocked by bulky new structures built right up to the property lines. Economic and social diversity are reduced as costly new ‘faux chateaux’ replace more affordable houses.”
He explains that everyone should be able to enjoy attractive and livable environments, and that we all bear the responsibility to make sure we don’t act in a way that prevents our neighbors from doing this.
One of your readers recently asked what powers would assist the HDC in our preservation efforts. The answer to this question is easy: Local Historic Designation.
Kings Highway North is a Local Historic District.
It is the only available tool that enables us to exceed the 180-day delay, and stop demolition in perpetuity.
Local Historic Designation provides the most protection to historic properties, as buildings that are locally designated require that exterior alterations visible from a public way – which includes demolition — be granted a Certificate of Appropriateness by the HDC before any such work can take place.
Buildings that are not designated, regardless of their age or the presence of a plaque, can be demolished.
At present, there are only 7 Local Historic Districts and 22 Local Historic Properties in Westport (click here for a list). This means that fewer than 250 buildings are under our protection.
39 Cross Highway (the Chapman-Northrup House) is a Local Historic Property.
Westport also has 4 State Historic Districts and 10 National Historic Districts. However, these designations are largely honorary and do not prevent demolition, as evidenced by the destruction that regularly occurs in the Compo Owenoke National Register Historic District or the Bridge Street National Register Historic District.
Historic properties are resources important to the sustainable development of our community. They contribute to the aesthetic quality of our environment and our cultural heritage; their preservation establishes and reinforces a unique sense of community.
In addition, preservation aids in the retention and enhancement of property values by providing a stable market in which families can invest.
Bridge Street is a “National Register Historic District.” But that designation is honorary, and does not protect properties from demolition.
We are currently working on a Local Historic Property designation for Hillspoint Road, and are in the process of discussing Local Historic District Designation with a group of neighbors on Compo Road South.
But we can do better. We would love to have the “problem” of a flurry of Westporters seeking Local Historic Designation. Without it, the best we can offer is the 180-day demolition delay allowed by the state.
Anyone interested in learning more about local historic designation or the Historic Homes Rehabilitation Tax Credit available to owners of designated properties should contact Donna Douglass, HDC staff administrator: 203-341-1184; ddouglass@westportct.gov.
(Several times a day, “06880” shines a light on Westport: past, present and future. If you appreciate our work, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
Appearing the day after D-Day, it noted that 7 members of that year’s 88-student Class of 1944 had joined the military.
A special surprise at graduation was the appearance — in full uniform — of Airman Sebastian (Sebby) Lauterbach. He arrived in time to march to the stage for the ceremony.
Several months later he became one of 2 members of that class killed in combat.
Robert Gerrity — a Staples grad now living in Oregon — wanted to learn more. He found this online:
Private Sebastian Lauterbach Jr. served with the 78th Infantry Division, 311th Infantry Regiment,
He was killed in action on January 3, 1945. He was 19 years old.
He earned a Purple Heart, among other honors. He is buried or memorialized in the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten.
The Lauterbach family is well known in this area. We are honored to remember him today.
Pvt. Sebastian Lauterbach Jr.
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All hail Staples’ newest state champs: the boys rugby team.
The Wreckers trounced rival Greenwich 29-7 yesterday, at Southern Connecticut State University.
The victory was even sweeter because the Cardinals beat Staples earlier this year, in the first match of the season.
Congratulations to coach Jack Corcoran, and his young men. They stand at the top of the state, in one of the toughest sports on the planet.
Wearing state champion shirts, the Staples rugby team poses with their trophy and banner. (Photo/Terry Brannigan)
Meanwhile, the end of the road came for the Staples baseball team in Middletown.
The Wreckers fell 9-1 to Amity-Woodbridge, in the state “LL” (extra large schools) championship game.
It was a tough loss. But the Westporters held their heads high. Ranked 19th in the tourney, they were beaten by the #4 squad.
And it was Staples’ second straight trip to the championship. They made it all the way there last year too. They lost to Fairfield Warde.
Congratulations to coach Jack McFarland and his team, on an outstanding year.
Folks who have long admired the beautiful property on Prospect Road got a chance to wander through its 9 acres, and see it close up. The event was part of the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days program.
Guests enjoyed the Mediterranean graveled entry garden, 2 orchards, stone-tiered vegetable garden, blueberry and raspberry houses, beehives, sunny perennial garden, shady perennial woodland walk, conifer collection, flowering shrub and grass borders, Japanese-inspired meditation garden and maple collection, 2 pools, containers featuring citrus and cacti, glasshouse, sculpture, amphitheater and perennial/native wildflower meadow.
John and Melissa Ceriale’s vision — brought to life by garden designer Cindy Shumate — looks magical from the street.
Walking through it is an experience of a lifetime.
65 Jesup Road — the handsome “Godillot Carriage House” near Imperial Avenue — is for sale.
Built in 1882, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the one-time Westport Public Schools office (before they moved to Town Hall) was sold to a law office in 1985. It has been used for that purpose for nearly 40 years.
Zoning allows changing part of the building to 1 or more residential units, provided for no more than 25% of the building area. A single market residential unit is permitted as of right. Multiple units would have to comply with the
20% affordable housing requirement. (Hat tip: Cynthia Nigro)
f you missed the first showing of Homes with Hope’s 40th anniversary documentary: Don’t miss the next one.
It’s this afternoon: Sunday, June 9, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall.
The free event showcases the non-profit’s 4 decades of housing the homeless, feeding the hungry, and offering hope to neighbors whose lives are not as fortunate as others’.
Former Westporter Livio Sanchez’s documentary film uses interviews and archival material (including long-ago video), to trace Homes with Hope’s history, from a controversial concept (with plenty of NIMBY and it’s-not-our-problem opposition), through its move from a drafty firehouse to an old maintenance shed on Jesup Road (now the Gillespie Center), and its current array of multi-pronged programs.
Jim Gillespie’s family will be honored at the showing. He played a major role in the founding and development of the Interfaith Housing Association, the original iteration of Homes with Hope.
The Gillespie Center was named in his honor Dr. Gillespie, a clinical psychologist, was killed when struck by a car in France in 1988.
The Gillespie Center. Dr. Gillespie’s family will be on hand June 9, for the showing of a documentary on Homes with Hope’s first 40 years.
Later this month, Cleveland NPR station WKSU will broadcast and livestream “Lady at the Helm: Lillian Wald and the Nurses’ Emergency Council.”
Why should Westporters care (and listen)?
The famed nurse/humanitarian/author/human rights activist — who campaigned for suffrage, founded the Henry Street Settlement in New York, and helped start the NAACP — lived for many years on Round Pond, off Compo Road South.
Eleanor Roosevelt was a frequent visitor here.
Set in 1918, the WKSU story describes Wald’s struggle to turn New York into a sprawling field hospital, amid the world’s deadliest influenza.
The story also focuses on Black female nurses and their determination to serve, despite being barred from service during World War I.
There is another Westport connection: Funding was provided by the Betty R. Sheffer Foundation, honoring the longtime Westport philanthropist.
The Lillian Wald story airs on June 19, at 9 p.m. Click here for the livestream.
Lillian Wald’s house today.
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There are many great outdoor wedding spots in Westport. Longshore is the obvious one.
Other people get married on a beach, or in back yards.
The Westport Woman’s Club is a wonderful venue too.
Amy Schneider snapped this shot yesterday, as wedding preparations began:
Westport Woman’s Club. (Amy Schneider)
She could not take a similar image next week.
Unless a couple wants to get hitched in the middle of the Yankee Doodle Fair.
And finally … a beautiful song, for beautiful Prospect Gardens (story above):
(As we do every day, “06880” keeps you informed about Westport’s history; environmental, sport and real estate news, upcoming events, and much more. Please click here to support our work.)
One task of the Historic District Commission is to “take such action as the meeting may determine to oppose the issuance” of demolition permits, and “require the full 180-day delay,” of homes more than 50 years old.
The idea is to allow time for alternate plans to be developed.
That rarely happens. Whether immediately or after 180 days, developers almost always demolish.
Next Tuesday’s HDC meeting (7 p.m., Zoom) includes an especially large number of “delay” requests.
The first is for 125 Riverside — the Coley-Crossman home diagonally across from Assumption Church.
The others are:
2 Windy Hill Road
10 Bauer Place
32 Webb Road
21 Long Lots Lane
158 Compo Road North
159 Easton Road
33 Oak Street
20 Blue Ribbon Drive
35 Evergreen Parkway.
125 Riverside Avenue
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“06880”‘s newest feature wants to hear from any and all Westport “teens and tweens.”
This is your chance to share your thoughts, ideas and insights with our world.
Every kind of experience is welcome: good or bad, happy or sad. You can talk about local issues: what’s going on at school, with your sports or arts or other activities, the skate park, Community Gardens, downtown or anything else.
You can talk about what you love about Westport. Or what you hate.
You can talk about bigger issues: how the debate over Israel and Gaza affects you. What the upcoming election means to you — or why you don’t care. Ditto for climate change.
And you don’t have to limit yourself to writing. If you feel more comfortable expressing yourself through a video, podcast, music or art — send it along.
All submissions, in all mediums and styles, are welcome.
If you’d like your name used with your submission: great! If you prefer anonymity: also great! Just let us know.
The goal is to get your voice heard.
To start, click here; then fill out the short form. We’ll take it from there.
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Tammy Barry had a great experience yesterday, at the Greens Farms post office.
There were no $1 stamps available. So Paul helped her place 3 stamps each, on all of her daughter’s wedding invitations.
Then he hand-stamped them all, preventing them from any possible damage in the machine.
In addition, Tammy says, “he was so friendly with all the patrons. He called many of them by their first names.
“His frequent saying is ‘I got you!’ He’s the best!”
Their loyal customers will probably kill me (and Tammy) for revealing the secret, but the Greens Farms post office is a great alternative to the downtown one.
There’s seldom a line. And always a parking spot.
Paul (right) and colleague Frank, at the Greens Farms post office. (Photo/Tammy Barry)
Karen Mather had a great experience yesterday too.
It did not start out that way, though.
Driving down Greens Farms Road, she saw a adorable — but listless — baby raccoon, perilously close to the street.
She called Westport Animal Control (203-341-5076). Officer Peter Reid arrived quickly.
He told Karen that the mother had most likely been killed; the baby was looking for her.
Fortunately, Peter said, the little critter was just very hungry. It could be saved at Wildlife in Crisis in Weston — where his wife volunteers.
He brought it right over.
The non-profit facility accepts over 5,000 wounded, ill and orphaned animals each year. The goal is to heal them, then return them to their natural habitats.
Who you gonna call if you see a creature needing help? Westport Animal Control or Wildlife in Crisis.
They’re both local life-savers.
Peter Reid, saving a raccoon.
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Rhone — the men’s clothing store on Main Street and a longtime champion of mental fitness — is hosting an evening dedicated to the topic.
Tomorrow’s event (Thursday, May 30, Westport Woman’s Club, 5:30 to 8 p.m.) includes inspirational speakers, a silent auction, and a “Mind & Muscle” experience led by Eric Johnson. It combines dynamic workouts with mental health discussions, combining physical and mental well-being.
Speakers will share personal reflections of recovery, suicide prevention, and the importance of mental health,
Rhone co-founder and CEO Nate Checketts will deliver the keynote. Other speakers include professional trainer Zac Clark (“Bachelorette” contestant and Scarlett Johansson trainer), and Staples High School boys basketball coach Dave Goldshore.
All proceeds from ticket sales and the silent auction will go to Positive Directions. In addition, a generous donor will match funds up to $15,000.
There’s more: Rhone will donate 10% of proceeds from all purchases between May 31 and June 2 to Positive Directions.
Click here for tickets, and more information. Click here to bid on silent auction items.
“Art in Bloom” — a celebration of the Westport Public Art Collections, with drinks, light bites, art sales, a silent art auction, and a special exhibit of flower-themed works — is set for June 6 (7 to 9 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club).
This is the first fundraiser for Friends of WestPAC is 5 years. They welcome old and new friends, to ensure the continued growth, care, display and educational uses of the collections. Works are exhibited in public building throughout town, including schools, Town Hall, and municipal offices.
Artists include: Shirley Black, Paul Camacho, Leonard Everett Fisher, Hardie Gramatky, Clement Kamena, Lisa Daugherty, Jak Kovatch, Philippe Lejeune, Estelle Margolis, John Mavroudis, Howard Munce, Susan Malloy, Fred Otnes, Nancy Reinker, Walter Dubois Richards, Barbara Rothenberg, and others.
Those are some great names. Their work is varied, and outstanding.
Click here for tickets, sponsorship information, and donations.
Staples High School Class of 1997 graduate Lisa Marie Giallanza Sweeting died peacefully of natural causes at Danbury Hospital earlier this month. She was 45.
Her family moved to Westport from Georgia in 1983. Lisa began playing the violin in 4th grade. She played in the orchestra and sang in the choir at Staples.
She graduated from Arizona State University with a BA in broadcast management.
Lisa was the regional president of the MOMS club (Moms Offering Moms Support). She worked as the admissions coordinator at St. Joseph’s School in Brookfield, then as the office administrator and athletic director at St. Rose of Lima School in Newtown, Connecticut.
Lisa loved camping and annual trips to the Outer Banks.
She is survived by her husband, Russell Sweeting; children Lily, Ryan and Evelyn; parents Tom and Patricia, and brothers Tom Jr., and Michael.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Rose of Lima School, 40 Church Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470.
And finally … in honor of Peter Reid’s nice save yesterday:
(As today’s Roundup shows, Westport is filled with helpful, caring people. That includes “06880” readers! Please join the generous folks who support this blog. Just click here — and thank you.)
For decades, The Arrow was Westport’s go-to Italian restaurant.
Then — in shorter order — it became an Asian fusion eatery (Jasmine), a bar with music (Blu Parrot), and a food shop (Mystic Market).
Soon, it heads back to its roots.
Riko’s is the new tenant, on Charles Street near Saugatuck Avenue.
Featuring thin crust pies, including hot oil (think Colony Grille) and more, they’ve got 10 locations already, in Connecticut, Long Island, Massachusetts and Florida.
Area residents who know their Fairfield, Norwalk, Darien and Stamford restaurants rave about it.
Riko’s will be opening soon in Burlington, Vermont; Carolina Beach, North Carolina; and South Beach, Miami.
But the one in Saugatuck excites “06880” the most.
Charlie Tirreno writes: “It’s nice to remember Nancy Coley on Memorial Day.
“She was in the Women’s Auxiliary of the VFW, and very involved creating the VFW float for many years.
“She used to hang a gigantic American flag over her lawn, and invite all the neighborhood for a cookout.
“People may also want to say their goodbyes to the Coley-Crossman house on Imperial Avenue, as it has a demolition notice on it.
“Her house is by the start of the parade route, at Saugatuck Elementary School. It’s 125 Riverside Avenue.”
The Coley-Crossman House at 125 Riverside Avenue, with a demolition notice. (Photo/Charlie Tirreno)
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While many Westporters enjoyed Compo Beach yesterday, Drew Angus headed west.
The singer/songwriter (and 2007 Staples High School graduate) opened for Mumford & Sons at the Greenwich Town Party.
The event was funded by Ray Dalio — who, as the founder of Bridgewater Associates, spent plenty of time in Westport — and other Greenwich residents.
But you didn’t have to brave I-95 yesterday to see Drew. He’s one of the featured musicians at Westport’s first-ever Soundview Summer Stroll.
Mark your calendars! It’s Sunday, July 28 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
Soundview Drive — the beach exit road — will be closed to traffic. Besides music, there will be a photo booth, kids’ activities, food, and a great community vibe.
The Soundview Summer Stroll is co-sponsored by “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association.
The Westport Weston Family YMCA program is a true community. Members exercise together, form strong bonds, support each other — and support worthwhile causes too.
Yesterday morning, Sgt. Eduardo Hernandez — with 19 years of active duty in the US Army — addressed Patty Kondub’s class.
He thanked the AquaFitters, and VFW Post 399 Auxiliary — for their support.
Sgt. Eduardo Hernandez, on the pool deck with AquaFit instructors Patty Kondub and Joan Evon, and their Sunday class.
The Y has a collection box for energy bars, Gatorade, electrolytes blocks, beef jerky and water through June. It will be send to US Army Reserve Unit 411 Civil Affairs Battalion for their training at Fort Dix. Sgt. Hernandez commands the unit.
Donations can also be dropped off at, or sent to, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, 465 Riverside Avenue through June.
During yesterday’s class, Ariel Levy (right, with her mother Doree) held up Patty Kondub’s signs, encouraging the AquaFitters.
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Uh oh.
The large Longshore pool was supposed to open yesterday. However, there is an issue with the filter that could require major repairs.
The goal is to have it fixed by June 24, when pool hours expand and lessons begin.
The other 2 small pools, for little kids, are open. (Hat tip: Michael Catarevas)
Michael Catarevas — shown here in 2021 — reports that the Longshore pool is closed. (Photo/Patrick Haggerty)
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If you missed the first showing of Homes with Hope’s 40th anniversary documentary: Don’t miss the next one.
It’s Sunday, June 9 (2 to 3:30 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall).
The free event showcases the non-profit’s 4 decades of housing the homeless, feeding the hungry, and offering hope to neighbors whose lives are not as fortunate as others’.
Former Westporter Livio Sanchez’s documentary film uses interviews and archival material (including long-ago video), to trace Homes with Hope’s history, from a controversial concept (with plenty of NIMBY and it’s-not-our-problem opposition), through its move from a drafty firehouse to an old maintenance shed on Jesup Road (now the Gillespie Center), and its current array of multi-pronged programs.
Jim Gillespie’s family will be honored at the showing. He played a major role in the founding and development of the Interfaith Housing Association, the original iteration of Homes with Hope.
The Gillespie Center was named in his honor Dr. Gillespie, a clinical psychologist, was killed when struck by a car in France in 1988.
The Gillespie Center. Dr. Gillespie’s family will be on hand June 9, for the showing of a documentary on Homes with Hope’s first 40 years.
Molly Alger does not want to be the skunk at today’s (Memorial Day) party.
But she — and many other Westporters — have noticed that the wood pile at the corner of Post Road East and Roseville Road continues to grow larger.
And more unsteady.
The once-neat piles are looking less orderly.
It’s tough enough navigating that stretch of Route 1, with all the construction. Now drivers have to creep past with one eye on the right side, hoping the logs won’t suddenly crash onto the road.
Every Artists Collective of Westport’s pop-up show is different. But the receptions are always the same: energetic, educational and fun.
The next one is June 11 (6 to 8 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse barn).
In addition to a wide array of great art, there’s food and entertainment (Chris Coogan on piano).
The exhibit then runs from June 12 to 15 (1 to 5 p.m). It ends with an artists’ talk June 15 (4 p.m.).
Featured artists include Robin Babbin, Lynn Carlson, Cris Dam. Laure Dunne, Carla Goldbert, Kathryn Gray, Jen Greely, Paul Larson, Nancy Moore, Tina Puckett, Ellen Schiffman and Tammy Winser.
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Speaking of art: Westport Collective member Janine White has a solo show now through July 11, at Silvermine Galleries in New Canaan. A reception is set for June 8 (5:30 p.m)..
Her work “harnesses home economics through kitchen chemistry and crafting, to critique ideas of domesticity.” Brown cooks all-natural bioplastics from ingredients found in a pantry, making material out of it, then crochets the pieces together.
Click here to learn more, and see examples of her work.
And finally … Richard Sherman died yesterday in Beverly Hills. He was 95.
You may not recognize the Oscar and Grammy Award winner.
But you sure know the songs he wrote. Click here for a full obituary.
(You know what would be supercalifragilisticexpialidocious? If you’d click here to support “06880.” Mary Poppins, and your hyper-local blog, thank you.)
A true piece of American history came to Westport yesterday.
The Bible George Washington used when he was sworn in as our nation’s first president — on the balcony of Federal Hall in New York City — was on display, at Temple Masonic Lodge #65. That’s the building on the Post Road East/Imperial Avenue corner, shared with Harding Funeral Home.
The occasion was the 200th anniversary of the founding of the Westport Masons’ chapter.
White-gloved Masons guard the famous Bible, as Westporters watch at a respectful distance.
The Bible — which was also used at the inaugurations of 4 other presidents, and at Washington’s funeral — is owned by St. John’s Masonic Lodge No. 1 in New York.
They display it occasionally around the country, but this is its first visit to Connecticut.
Washington was a Mason. So were other famous Americans, including Ben Franklin, Paul Revere, John Hancock, and Connecticut native Nathan Hale.
Yesterday’s Roundup noted that the Westport Rotary Club awarded $200,000 in grants to 41 area non-profits.
Who got all that largesse?
After School and Summer School Programs
Connect Us – Bridgeport
Bridgeport Caribe Youth Leaders – Bridgeport
Earthplace – Westport
Builders Beyond Borders – Westport
Westport Department of Human Services – Westport
Horizons at Notre Dame – Bridgeport
Horizons at Greens Farms Academy – Bridgeport
Horizons at Norwalk Community College – Norwalk
The Carver – Norwalk
Urban Impact of Black Rock – Bridgeport
Westport Country Playhouse – Westport
First Serve Bridgeport – Bridgeport
Services for Children and Adults with Developmental Disabilities
Westport Book Sales Ventures – Westport
CLASP Homes – Westport
My Team Triumph – Westport
St. Catherine Center for Special Needs – Fairfield
Club 203 – Westport
Team Woofgang & Co. – Bridgeport
Services to Address Homelessness and Food Insecurity
Homes with Hope – Westport
Homes for the Brave – Bridgeport
Off The Streets – Bridgeport
Open Doors CT – Norwalk
Food Rescue US – Stamford
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Primarily for Children
Positive Directions – Westport
Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center – Norwalk
Kids in Crisis – Greenwich
K-12 Formal Education for Children from Low Income Families
Park City Prep Charter School – Bridgeport
Adam J. Lewis Academy – Bridgeport
A Better Chance – Westport
Services for Low Income Adults, Primarily Immigrants
Mercy Learning Center – Bridgeport
Caroline House – Bridgeport
Burroughs Community Center – Bridgeport
CT Institute for Refugees and Immigrants – Bridgeport
College Scholarships for Students in Need
Staples Tuition Grants – Westport
Norwalk Housing Foundation – Norwalk
The Susan Fund – Westport
Services for Domestic Violence Victims
Domestic Violence Crisis Center – Stamford
Emergency Medical Services
Westport VEMS – Westport
Legal; Services for Children from Low Income Families
Center for Children’s Advocacy – Bridgeport
Services to Address Recidivism
HomeBridge Ventures – Bridgeport
Activities for Seniors
Friends of the Westport Senior Center – Westport
The next time you see info on a Rotary Club fundraiser: Keep this list in mind.
And buy a ticket!
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For nearly a decade, Alan Sterling’s “Gloria” oyster boat was moored in Gray’s Creek.
After spending its final months disintegrating on shore — washed up on a bank during a storm — it was demolished and removed last week.
Here’s a view of Gray’s Creek today:
(Photo/Matt Murray)
It looks serene and lovely.
But without Gloria, it’s just not the same.
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“The Outsider” is coming to the Westport Country Playhouse.
No, not the Broadway musical based on the coming-of-age novel of the same name.
“The Outsider” — written by Paul Slade Smith and directed by Mark Shanahan — is the next “Script in Hand” offering.
It’s set for Monday, June 10 (7 p.m.).
This “Outsider” is “a timely and hilarious comedy that skewers politics and celebrates democracy.
“Ned Newley doesn’t even want to be governor. He’s terrified of public speaking; his poll numbers are impressively bad. To his ever-supportive chief of staff, Ned seems destined to fail.
“But political consultant Arthur Vance sees things differently: Ned might be the worst candidate to ever run for office. Unless the public is looking for … the worst candidate to ever run for office.”
All seats are $30. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Michael Friedman’s great Church Lane pop-up shop — featuring his very cool, very close-up and personal photos of rock stars like Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin, The Band, Paul Butterfield, Rita Coolidge, Kris Kristofferson and Johnny Winter — after next weekend.
They’re open noon to 6 Friday through Sunday, and by appointment (203-247-6869).
Now is the time to put in special orders. There’s 20% off any image, of any size (with still time to frame before Father’s Day).
And there’s 25% off framed prints currently on display.
Friedman’s shop was a perfect place where rock met pop(up). Be sure to check it out, before it checks out.
Weston High School’s valedictorian and salutatorian are not just the top 2 students in the Class of 2024.
They’re also close, longtime friends.
Valedictorian Sophie Rutkowski has dedicated herself to science research. She presented her work to the North American Black Fly Association, and studied endometrial cancer.
She also did independent study on Eastern European literature,
Musically, Sophie finds joy playing the flute and piccolo. Her groups include Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz and Pit Orchestra. She is a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and Music Mentors.
Other volunteer efforts include National Honor Society, Lachat Town Farm, and Weston High swim team community service.
Sophie is also an AP Scholar with Distinction, and has won the University of Michigan Book Award, rhe Marie Curie Award, and is part of the National Junior Classical League Latin Honor Society.
This fall, she will attend Columbia University.
Salutatorian Natasha Jain has lived in Weston since 1st grade. She is a member of the WHS Green Team and Fighting Against Climate Injustice. She has competed in mock trial competitions since middle school, and helps coach the junior mock trial team at Weston Middle School.
Natasha plays the clarinet in the Wind Ensemble, and piano outside of school.
She is a member of the National Honor Society and National Spanish Honor Society.
Natasha is also an accomplished dancer in the Indian classical form of Bharatanatyam. She recently performed a 3-hour on-stage solo dance in front of a large audience.
Natasha will attend Tufts University, and plans to major in neuroscience.
Homeowners may not know that cash discounts are available not only at gas stations, but also (in a somewhat bigger transaction) real estate.
Our friends at KMS Team at Compass say: “A study of over 2 million sales from across the country during 1980 – 2017 revealed that, on average, mortgage buyers paid 11% more than cash buyers. A more recent study of data through 2021 pegged the premium at 8%.
Locally, over the past 12 months, more than half (50.4%) of Westport real estate transactions were recorded as cash sales.
Mortgages and closing costs can mount up. In fact, New York has a graduated mortgage tax, tacking on an additional 2% or so to record mortgages on city purchases.
Click here to read more about borrowing and closing fees, including a comparison between Connecticut and New York.
The asking price for this 5-bedroom, 9-bathroom, 7,435-square foot house on 2.51 acres at oddly named Pan Handle Lane is $5,499 million. The mortgage is estimated at $38,730 a month. There may be a cash discount.
If you’re headed to today’s Dog Festival at Winslow Park, take a detour before or after to the Shell station across from the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot entrance.
The Staples High School wrestling team is running a fundraising car wash, from noon to 3 p.m.
Who knows? They might even rinse off your pooch.
They can wrestle — and wash your car!
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We are surrounded by so much greenery, we don’t always appreciate it.
Claudia Sherwood Servidio does. Her shot of Vista Terrace, inside Longshore — today’s “Westport … Naturally” image — reminds us that all around town, we are surrounded by beauty.
And finally … in honor of “The Outsider,” coming soon to the Westport Country Playhouse (story above):
(If it’s happening in Westport, “06880” will tell you about it. Please tell us you appreciate our work, with a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
There is one less Brooks, Torrey & Scott property in town.
And one more owned by Regency Centers.
Compo Shopping Center — anchored by CVS — was sold last week for $45.5 million, by the local family commercial real estate firm, to the Jacksonville, Florida-based company.
Compo was one of the first shopping centers in town (along with Westfair Village near Southport, across from what is now Stop & Shop — also built by the current Brooks principals’ father, B.V. Brooks.
Initial tenants includes McClellan’s 5-and-10 store, Compo Barber Shop, a supermarket and Gold’s delicatessen.
McClellan’s is now CVS. The barber is now Dunkin’ Donuts. The supermarket is Awesome Toys & Gifts.
Gold’s is still there.
Torrey Brooks — a third generation member of the Brooks company — told CT Insider, “basically, my brother and sister pretty much wanted to cash out.”
Compo Shopping Center recently underwent a major exterior renovation. The parking lot remains, however, one of the most difficult to navigate in Westport.
It’s right down there with Compo Acres Shopping Center — the one with Trader Joe’s — across the street.
It too is owned by Regency Centers.
Gold’s Delicatessen — a Compo Shopping Center mainstay for nearly 70 yeas.
A common sight: a wrong-way driver entering Compo Shopping Center.
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Pickleball America — one of the largest such indoor venues in the US — was formerly Saks Fifth Avenue, in the Stamford Town Center.
It’s also the site of art shows.
The latest — “Mothers and Fathers,” featuring members of the Connecticut Society of Portrait Artists — includes work from Westport artist Nancy Stember. The show runs through June 28, and is open daily until 10 p.m.
A special Father’s Day reception is set for June 13 (6-8 p.m.).
Stember’s painting — drawn from a family photo taken years ago, with husband Rishon and children Doron, Atara and Joey — is featured on marketing materials for the show.
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Speaking of mothers: “06880” joins Weston’s Jolantha the pig (below) in wishing all moms, in 06880, 06883 and beyond, a happy Mother’s Day.
Westport’s real estate market just had its best week of the year for new listings.
Yet April ended with the lowest inventory for single family homes in over 20 years.
What does that mean?
Our friends at KMS Team at Compass say that before COVID, Westport real estate was a buyers’ market. Inventory was plentiful. In 2019, homes stayed on the market an average of 122 days.
When homes sold, it was at an average 5.2% discount from list price. Sellers were encouraged to beat competition, and list their homes before the traditional “spring” market.
The number of new listings spiked earlier, then tapered down through December. For example, there were 91 new listings in January 2019, 95 in February, 98 in May, then only 20 new listings in December 2019.
During the turbulent pandemic era, Westport homes were in extremely high demand. They sold quickly, often over asking prices.
As inventory declined to historic low levels, prices still rose. Westport continued to be a sellers’ market.
For sale: 5 Boxwood Lane, off Sturges Highway. With 6 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms, it’s 10,414 square feet on 1.89 acres. The asking price is $4,285,000.
The last couple of years have continued the trend. However, with less fear of missing the market, sellers now list their homes when they and the home are ready.
Spring finds some sellers looking for new beginnings, others looking ahead to the end of the school year.
The traditional real estate wisdom of focusing on “curb appeal” still exists, making spring a great time to list. Green leaves, blooming flowers and open pools are key selling points for potential buyers.
With a year-to-date median sales price of $1,985,500 — up nearly 2% from the same period in 2023 — it is not surprising to see 19 single-family homes newly listed for sale in Westport last week.
That’s the best weekly total this year. Yet the 84 homes inventory at the end of April is less than in over 2 decades.
113 North Avenue is on the market for $2,699,000. The 3,920-square foot home includes 5 bedrooms and 3 1/2 bathrooms, on 1.02 acres. It incorporates the Charles Meeker House, c. 1887.
Why the low inventory?
The KMS Team at Compass offer several reasons.
One is that some newer homeowners can’t afford to move again. They locked into a loan when mortgage rates were between 2 and 3%, or at least under 5%. Paying around 7% would be prohibitive.
Meanwhile, owners who have been in their homes for years, and refinanced when rates were low, don’t want to downsize — yet possibly face higher monthly mortgage payments.
Many people stay put because they fell in love with their schools, town and/or neighborhoods. They’ll put on an addition or rework the current home to address their evolving needs.
Some people can afford to “move” to a different part of the country, by buying another residence elsewhere. But they’re not ready to give up their foothold in Westport. So they keep their property here.
For everyone, moving can be stressful. And expensive. Some homeowners think about selling, then decide to stay put.
So what do the coming months look like?
KMS expects the number of new listings this month and next to match or beat April’s total of 54.
July and August will be slow, as Westporters enter vacation mode. The pace will probably pick up again in September and October.
So May may bring more flowers. And, realtors (and buyers) hope: more inventory.
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