And the winner of the 2022 Westport Green Building Award for Achievement in Sustainable Design and Construction is …
… 24 Owenoke Park.
Owners Keith and Kate Melnick; architect Jack Franzen; builders John and Steve Segerson and Pam Brennan, and interior designer Chrystal Toth received the honor from Sustainable Westport, and the town of Westport. They called it “a stellar example of what is possible with sustainable design and construction in a residential project.”
24 Owenoke Park. (Photo courtesy of Google Earth)
Moving to Westport in 2016, the Melnicks’ goal was to incorporate sustainable building features they had discovered while living in Switzerland and Australia into their new home. Sustainable aspects of 24 Owenoke Park include an efficient building envelope, use of sustainable building materials, a solar photovoltaic system, and a geothermal heating and cooling system.
The building envelope includes double-pane insulated glass with low emittance coating, to reflect heat and keep it from penetrating the glass. This reduces heating and cooling demands on the home, along with the size of the heating and cooling equipment.
Exterior of 24 Owenoke Park …
The heating and cooling system is an all-electric geothermal heat pump, lessening the home’s reliance on fossil fuels. When heat is required, the heat pump draws heat from the ground; for cooling, the heat pump rejects heat back into wells drilled 535 feet into the ground. Because the ground temperature is nearly constant year-round, less energy is required to extract and reject heat to the ground than to the air.
A 7.8kW solar array installation of photovoltaic panels produces clean electricity, powering the home and allowing it to send electricity back to the electric grid instead of pulling from it. The solar PV panels also power an EV charger for their electric car.
Ultra-high efficiency tankless water heaters provide hot water only when there is a call from a sink or shower, eliminating the need to keep water heated 24/7.
The interior of the home includes natural finishes and furnishings, and paint that minimize Volatile Organic Compounds (chemicals often found in building materials and interior furnishings that can cause health problems). The paint also includes cradle-to-cradle certification that assures the health and safety of the end product, as well as sustainable manufacturing practices.
… and the interior.
All appliances are Energy Star-rated. They meet energy efficiency standards set by the US Environmental Protection Agency or US Department of Energy.
To learn more about what you can do to make your home more sustainable, or the Green Building Awards Program, click here.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (1st row, 2nd from left) presents the award to the Melnicks. The ceremony was also attended by town officials, and the home’s designers and builders. (Photo/Jenaé Weinbrenner)
Posted onDecember 12, 2022|Comments Off on Christmas Comes (Finally) To Washington Avenue
The anticipation is not quite like a little kid waiting for Santa.
But for 18 months, residents of Washington Avenue have looked ahead to the release of Netflix’s new Christmas movie “The Noel Diary.”
The film — starring Justin Hartley (“This is Us”) and Bonnie Bedelia (“Die Hard,” “Parenthood”) — is about a man who returns home on Christmas to settle his estranged mother’s estate, then discovers “a diary that may hold secrets to his own past and of a beautiful young woman on a mysterious journey of her own.”
Not exactly “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
But hey: It was filmed in Westport.
In the spring of 2021, a film company took over Washington Avenue — a tight-knit street connecting Main Street and Evergreen Avenue near downtown.
They’d negotiated deals with 6 homeowners. Their old New England-y, decidedly non-McMansion-type houses became a Hollywood set.
Screenshot from “The Noel Diary.”
It was “Christmas in June” — cinematically, and perhaps for the checks those families received too.
It was also at times a pain in the butt.
On June 28, 2021 I wrote about the Washington Avenue adventure. You can read that story below.
It’s the Westport way to “Netflix and chill.” Even if it was not exactly chilly way back in June 2021, on suddenly wintry Washington Avenue. (Hat tip: Carol Anne Ances)
Here is the “06880” story from June 28, 2021: “Behind The Scenes Of ‘Noel Diary”:
The guys from the film company were up front.
“We’ll take over your house for a couple of weeks,” they told Brett Adams. “It will be crazy.”
They offered a contract. It specified exactly what they’d rent — the porch on his handsome Washington Avenue home, that sort of thing — and what they were responsible for. It spelled out the COVID restrictions, and other contingencies.
Brett signed. A couple of weeks later, the production crew arrived: all 50 to 75 of them.
“We probably didn’t fully understand that,” Brett says. “Or what it would mean for the entire street.”
Welcome to life, when your quiet Westport home becomes a bustling Hollywood movie set. Along with 5 others, next door and across the street.
A few of the many trucks, at the load-in on Washington Avenue.
The Adams’ house will be seen on screen a year and a half from now. December 2022 is the anticipated release of “The Noel Diary,” the Netflix film starring Justin Hartley (“This is Us”) and Bonnie Bedelia (“Die Hard,” “Parenthood”).
Yes, Christmastime. “The Noel Diary” is (duh) a holiday film.
And yes, it was filmed in Westport, on the hottest days in June. That’s the way the movie industry rolls.
Like anyone else in the business, Adams and his family learned to roll with the punches.
The saga began in March. Working at home, Adams saw people taking photos of his house.
Working with representatives from the state’s Office of Film, TV and Digital Media, they were scouting for 2 porches. They’d come to the right place: Adams’ — and the facades of other nearby houses, on the end of the usually quiet road just off Main Street — are historic and gorgeous. There’s not a McMansion in sight.
Filming began in other Fairfield County towns. The first sign of Westport’s star turn came when several enormous trucks massed in the Playhouse parking lot. That was the staging area.
Adams’ first sign that the crew was ready to take over — and do it their own, practiced way — was when they installed a massive generator on the side of the house. Then came tents in the back.
And huge cranes, for lighting. Plus cutting down a tree, for a better shot of another house across the way.
The Adams’ house. No, there is not usually a blue postal box in front.
The original contract included rental of the porch, a bit of the first floor interior, and basement (as a break room for the crew). Quickly, the producers asked to rent the driveway and garage too. Those riders were added.
Adams, his wife and son Will were both fascinated and blasé about the production. They watched in wonder as actors sweated through take after take in 90-degree heat (someone’s specific job was helping them take off their heavy coats).
Bedelia asked Brett if she could come inside between takes. Sure, he said. Will — a Staples High School junior — came downstairs during a study break, greeted the Emmy-nominated actress with a casual “hi!”, then went about his business.
Just like in the movies: The star gets her own chair.
The shaded porch became a favorite hangout for hair and makeup crews. Brett would take breaks from his own work, and ask them about their work. “I have my job, and they have theirs,” he says. “I learned a lot about what they do.”
One surprising lesson: how long it takes to shoot one scene. Each involves multiple angles, and many takes.
Once, a boy rode a bike up and down the street, over and over again. Another time, a dog chased a car — over and over and over again.
Brett was also astonished at the number of people involved, in every aspect, from the production manager to the guy watering the street.
The final night, the crew created a snowfall. Brett was impressed. “They really can create magic,” he says.
Winter in June. The snowman is a nice touch.
Nearly everyone who tromped onto Brett’s porch, and into his basement, had kind words for how nice and accommodating everyone in Westport had been. Apparently, that’s not always the case.
He returns the compliments. Negotiations were not stressful, he says. “They’re very practiced at this. They know antagonism will never get them anywhere.”
When a recycling bin went missing. someone hustled over to Westport Hardware and bought a new one.
The actors were great too, Brett says. Hartley took photos with everyone. Director Charles Shyer (“Father of the Bride,” “Private Benjamin,” “Alfie”) — “classic Hollywood, 79 years old in sneakers and a t-shirt” — was often available for interesting conversations.
“He never yelled ‘action,'” Brett observes. “There was someone else around to do that.”
“I don’t know where a Netflix film fits in with the whole art scene. But for a couple of weeks, even though it could be a nuisance, it was pretty cool.”
Besides, there was this: While work colleagues apologized for dog or toddler interruptions, Brett had another excuse.
“Sorry, guys,” he’d say. “They’re filming a movie at my house.”
Some scenes were filmed at night. These days, Washington Avenue is back to normal. (Photos/Brett Adams)
(Ho ho ho! Please consider a holiday gift to support “06880.” Click here — and thank you!)
Comments Off on Christmas Comes (Finally) To Washington Avenue
Just before 1 a.m. today, a car went off the road, into the Saugatuck River.
The Westport Fire Department responded with 3 engines and a rescue truck. Firefighters wearing cold water rescue suits removed the lone occupant, who was trapped in the vehicle.
Westport EMS transported the patient to the hospital, with unknown injuries.
Westport firefighters in action early this morning. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)
Speaking of accidents: Another of those baffling midday, clear weather crashes took place yesterday, at the Hillandale Road/Morningside Drive South intersection.
(Photo/Bob Weingarten)
With the way people drive these days, though — and the so-much-to-do pressure of the holidays — perhaps it’s not that surprising.
Just keep this image in mind the next time you want to gain 2 seconds at a stop sign.
Or think that your errand is more important than everyone else’s.
A recent “06880” story on what’s for sale — illegally — in Westport smoke shops and convenience stores noted that recreational marijuana sales have not yet begun in Connecticut.
Yesterday, state officials announced that adult-use marijuana sales will begin January 10.
More sites will be approved in coming months. None are in Westport. The Planning & Zoning Commission has — at least for now — banned non-medical marijuana sales here.
Click here for a full report on recreational cannabis stores statewide.
A Teen Business Holiday Shop fills the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum today (Saturday, December 10, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
An array of creative, high-quality products — jewelry, services and more — are on sale. All were created by local teenage entrepreneurs.
The event is sponsored by Up | Next Teens. The student-founded and run organization teaches teens the principles of entrepreneurism, with a commitment to social activism.
A portion of the proceeds will help fun the group’s efforts to help alleviate food insecurity.
PS: There’s live music, baked goods — and gift wrapping too!
Staples High School Class of 2010 graduate Luke Hammerman is the digital audience manager for the National Military Family Organization. The non-profit supports and enhances military families through advocacy and programming.
Luke wants Westporters to know about the group’s holiday drive — and remind them that Tuesday is the anniversary of the National Guard’s founding (in 1636!).
He also found this link to an inspirational “06880” story about some Westport military families in years past.
During World War II, 8 of the 12 Cuseo brothers enlisted in the military. Bottom row (from left): Charles, Robert, James, George. Middle: Angelo, father James, mother Lucia, Albert. Top : Nicholas, Frank, Anthony, William, Joseph, Michael. Not pictured: Mildred.
Westport will be well represented at “Layers Revealed” — the new exhibit at Norwalk Art Space.
Photographer Jerri Graham and artist Melissa Newman are in the show, which explores “all of life’s intricacies and complexities.”
“Slowly, the layers of our lives are revealed and once they are, we fully come through,” Graham says. Through “each frame of the camera,” she aims to highlight “a fraction of a second of a life that will be lived for a time unknown. Within these fractionated layers, we find our lives and ourselves.”
“Layers Revealed” encourages viewers to explore the many cycles and layers of humanity, nature, beauty, creation and decay.
At the opening reception Thursday (December 15,, 6 to 8 p.m., 455 West Avenue, Norwalk), Graham will take portrait photos at a pop-up space.
She’ll also host 3 portrait photo sessions (December 18, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m.; January 8 (10 a.m. to noon) and January 15 (noon to 2:30 p.m.). Book sessions at 203-252-2840; donations are accepted. Students ages 13 to 18 who are interested in helping Graham (and learning about lighting, composition and more) can apply here.
On January 15 (3 p.m.), Graham will give a talk. On January 28 (11 a.m.), Newman — who is also a vocalist — will join guitarist Tony
Lombardozzi for a jazz brunch performance at The Norwalk Art Space.
“In With the Old” — a Discovery+ series — features old-home enthusiasts transforming abandoned structures.
In the current season 3, Staples graduates Brian and Megan Austin Philpott work their magic on a “little Weston cabin.”
Also shown: former Westport Planning & Zoning Commission member Al Gratrix. Spoiler alert: It’s his grandchildren’s log cabin. (Hat tip: Chip Stephens)
The Dartmouth College Brovertones serenaded Staples High’s Choralaires yesterday, with tunes ranging from Hozier to The Beach Boys.
Luke Rosenberg’s singers were especially excited to hear SHS 2020 graduate Sam Laskin. They asked plenty of questions too, about college and a cappella life.
Sam Laskin (front row, 3rd from left), the Brovertones, and the Staples Choralaires.
There’s a new event on the Westport benefit calendar.
On March 19, Sunset Wine Party hosts a wine tasting at the Inn at Longshore. All net proceeds go to Berni & Murcer, a non-profit supporting area children with cancer.
The event includes grazing tables, music, and private VIP rooms
And finally … another little known — but hugely important — music pioneer has died.
Jim Stewart, a white man who who with his sister founded Stax Records — the hugely successful R&B/soul label — died Monday in Memphis. He was 92.
A country and rockabilly fan who “had scarcely seen a Black person till I was grown,” his work with artists like Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Wilson Pickett and Carla Thomas helped create the soundtrack of the ’60s and early ’70s.
His house band — Booker T. & the M.G.s — included Black and white musicians, an enormous step for the very segregated city of Memphis.
The Planning & Zoning Commission continued its discussion of the Hamlet at Saugatuck proposal last night.
P&Z members and proponents of the plan — which includes hotel, retail, residential and waterfront space near the train station — spoke about height, floor area ratios and requirements for public open space.
Votes on text and map amendments — necessary for the project to move forward — may be taken at the next P&Z meeting (Monday, December 12).
The last time we checked in with Vivek Kanthan, he had qualified to represent the US in the 2022 ROK Superfinal World Karting Championship in Italy.
He did win. But now the 13-year-old Westporter is a world champion.
Vivek Kanthan: world karting champion.
The venue was South Garda Karting Track in Lonato, Italy. Ninety racers from 25 countries qualified through their own national competitions.
The event is raced over 4 days. Competitors are eliminated, until only 36 drivers remain for the Superfinal world title.
Vivek won all 4 elimination heats, with a perfect score. He was the first American ever to do so.
In a very tactical, skillful and tense Superfinal, he executed a switchback passing maneuver on the last lap, to win by 0.077 seconds. Racers from Australia and Romania were 2nd and 34d, respectively.
Next year, Vivek moves up a race category. He will continue to compete in Europe against the world’s best kart racers. To follow his Instagram, click here.
Westport Book Shop’s December artist exhibitor is Westporter Jarvis Wilcox. Seven oil paintings featuring nature, landscapes and still life are on display in the Jesup Green used book store. A reception is set for December 10 (5 to 7 p.m.).
Wilcox painted in upstate New York for a decade, then in the Hamptons for 25 years. He now lives here, and is a member of the Artists Collective of Westport, and Silvermine Guild.
All artwork on display is available for purchase. To see more of his work, click here.
Steve Davis returns to VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 on Thursday (December 8), for Jazz at the Post. He brings some great collaborators too.
Davis — one of the most widely recorded trombonists today — will feature selections from his latest CD, “Correlations,” and his Grammy Award-winning original compositions.
He’ll be joined by saxophonist/”Jazz Rabbi” Greg Wall, pianist Rick Germanson, bassist Jason Clotter and drummer Jason Tiemann.
Shows are 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. There is a $15 cover. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
Take a culinary tour of Italy — without leaving Westport.
Chef Robert L. Gorman leads the first in a series of Wakeman Town Farm dinners on January 6 (6:30 to 9:30 p.m.).
In Tim’s Kitchen, guests will experience many flavors of Italy. Chef Robert starts with imported salami and cheeses; moves on to tagliatelle Bolognese and a variation on bistecca Fiorentina with gremolata and harvest-roasted vegetables, ending with classic tiramisu. He’ll discuss the background of each course, too.
Click here for tickets ($150 each) and more information.
And finally … today is the 53rd anniversary of Altamont.
On this day in 1969, a free Rolling Stones concert turned violent. 18-year-old Meredith Hunter was stabbed to death by Hells Angels security guards. There were 3 other deaths; scores of injuries; many stolen vehicles, and lots of property damage.
Less than 4 months after Woodstock, Rolling Stone magazine called it “rock and roll’s all-time worst day.”
The recent “06880” story about 233 Hillspoint Road [the former Positano restaurant, now being rebuilt as a private home] led me down the Google rabbit hole, to a wonderful surprise.
Over Thanksgiving weekend, my family and I had a Positano reunion at the former Chef Joseph’s son and daughter’s recently opened West Village restaurant, Ferdi.
The hospitality and food is instantly, wonderfully, familiar, while also sparkling with the imprint of the next generation of Chef Fernando and Manager Aida.
My sister and her husband were with us, visiting from Ohio. They married on the beach outside Positano 21 years ago, and had their wedding party at the restaurant. (Its first, I think.)
My adult children, who also were at this dinner with my husband and me, grew up talking to young Fernando and Aida during our countless meals at Positano.
The evening was meaningful for all of us — and we have “06880” to thank for getting the ball rolling.
Aaron and Brett Fortunoff are Bedford Middle School students, with big hearts and great goals. They write:
“In the spirit of giving and being thankful, we can’t forget about those who are less fortunate and fail to receive a proper daily breakfast — the most important meal of the day.
“So we teamed up with a non-profit called Cereal4All that helps provide cereals to local food pantries. We hope ‘06880’ readers can help us with this important cause.
“For local readers, we will be by both entrances of Stop & Shop this weekend (December 3 and 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). We will then deliver the collected cereal to food pantries in Fairfield County.
“There will also be a collection box at Temple Israel in Westport, from December 2 to 16.
“For readers are not local, we created an Amazon wish list you can donate to. Also, you can Venmo our mother, Laurie. She will buy cereal with the money raised: @lauriefortunoff. You can also click here and donate directly to the charity. The donation is tax deductible.
The stars are aligned. This is your chance to order a 2023 Westport Astronomical Society calendar.
It’s filled with daily astronomical data from Phil Harrington, and illustrated with astro-photography from talented WAS members.
The calendar is $15 for members, $20 for non-members ($5 shipping for 1-2; $10 for 3-5). It’s available at any upcoming event (click here for the calendar), or by email (alex@was-ct.org; include quantity and shipping address; you’ll be invoiced via PayPal).
And finally … Keith Levene — a founding member of both the Clash and Public Image Ltd. — died earlier this month in England. He was 65, and suffered from liver cancer. Click here for a full obituary.
(Don’t be a punk. Please support “06880.” Click here to help. Thank you!)
Just in time for the holidays: Westport’s Department of Human Services’ Giving Program is back.
Donations from community members are a huge help to Westport families facing financial hardship. One hundred families with school-aged children benefit each year from the program.
This year, rising costs for food, housing and fuel has added strains to many local budgets.
Gift cards and cash donations are matched with families, who then purchase food and simple holiday gifts for their children. Beneficiaries are anonymous.
The program enables parents to personalize their presents, and participate fully in the holiday season.
Residents and organizations can donate cash, checks or gift cards to the “Family to Family Seasonal Holiday Giving Program” online (click here). Contributions can also be dropped off at Town Hall, or mailed to the Department of Human Services c/o Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.
Westport residents facing financial difficulties can contact Human Services at 203-341-1050 or humansrv@westportct.gov for confidential assistance.
CTBites’ weekly blog leads with a story about Casa Me.
The story on the new restaurant in the longtime Sconset Square corner begins:
Casa Me elevates the local restaurant scene with its exceptional Northern Italian vacation-inspired cuisine.
For months Westporters and passersby wondered what was to become of the slightly rundown restaurant in Sconset Square in the midst of a massive renovation and remodel that seemed to take forever. Rumors began to circulate… a Mexican restaurant was coming to town (another?). A Spanish restaurant was moving in. (That’s across the street.) There was also some speculation that a new concept by restauranteur Mario Fontana, owner of the Bodega restaurants both in Fairfield and Darien was going to open.
Fontana was indeed opening a new restaurant, Casa Me, but the cuisine would be distinctly vacation-inspired Italian cuisine. This time he would be joined by his wife, the lovely Pina Ferlisi, who would take on the role of Creative Director after leaving a long and successful career as a fashion director for such esteemed brands as Henri Bendel and Alexander McQueen.
The Westport Public Art Collections’ new program will display large format artwork. loaned by local and regional artists.
The goal is to expand WestPAC’s mission of bringing original works to schools, to help stimulate discussion and connections with art and other curricula.
The middle school program was piloted last year when Coleytown reopened, with Eric Chiang’s “Are We Born Connected” and “History Civilizations.”
Two artists are loaning works for the 2022-23 school year. Jay Petrow offers a large-scale canvas “So Sorry” for Bedford Middle School, while Liz Leggett’s 3 abstractions are at Coleytown.
Both Westport artists have completed their installations. Throughout the school year they’ll speak to art classes, be interviewed by student newspapers and TV, and continue sharing their stories, experiences, and practices with students and staff.
A reminder: Staples High School Candlelight Concert tickets go “on sale” to the public — don’t worry, they’re still free! — on December 1.Performances are Friday, December 16 (8 p.m.) and Saturday, December 17 (3 and 8 p.m.).
The event combines 80 years of tradition with a modern holiday spirit. The Symphonic Orchestra, Symphonic Band and Choral Ensembles perform Candlelight favorites like “Sing We Noel” and “Hallelujah Chorus.” Also movements from Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite,” music from “Home Alone” by John Williams, and the first movement of Dan Forrest’s “Jubilate Deo.”
Set your reminders. Candlelight tickets get gobbled up fast!
The Westport Museum for History & Culture is teaming up with Verso Studios at the Westport Library for a new podcast.
“Buried in Our Past” focuses on the histories all around us, It offers a new way to look at the past, and rethink the present.
The monthly podcast is recorded at Verso Studios. It’s available on the Library’s YouTube channel, and through Apple and Spotify.
The debut episode (available now) features the true story of the first Thanksgiving with guest Greg Porretta, a Julliard-trained actor and Westport Museum board member. Click below to see:
Last month, 5-year-old Daisy Jonas contracted RSV, the respiratory virus that is especially dangerous in young children. She spent 3 nights — including her birthday — at Stamford Hospital.
Her parents were grateful for the new toys given to her during her stay. Now it’s time to give back.
Daisy’s older brother — 9-year-old Levi — wants to join her in collecting toys from Westporters, for Stamford Hospital. New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off by December 18. Email biancablairjonas@gmail.com for the address; click here for an Amazon wish list.
Westport resident Dr Jim Gadzik, Westporter — a trauma surgeon at Norwalk Hospital — has a life outside of the operating room.
He can cross off one bucket list item. He’s just written a play.
“Magic: A Ballroom Musical” will be staged at Norwalk’s Wall Street Theater this Saturday (November 26, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.).
It’s an original, Christmas-themed, family-friendly show, featuring 30 songs and 7 ballroom dances.
Jim explains: “It is the story of Pam and Bob, 2 lonely people who find love in a ballroom studio on an enchanted Christmas weekend when they are offered free lessons as a holiday gift by an intriguing dance instructor. If you like Hallmark, Disney and happy endings, you’ll love ‘Magic.'”
Click here for tickets, as well as the livestream link.
Speaking of doctors: Bob Altbaum is guest speaker at the Y’s Women’s next meeting (Monday, November 28, 11:30 a.m., Green’s Farms Church). The public is invited.
Dr. Altbaum retired last year from Internal Medicine Associates of Westport, where he spent his entire career. He joined them in 1978.
An exceptional diagnostician, he is also a Renaissance man. He teaches, hikes, snowshoes, plays tennis and pickleball, and is a keyboardist in the doctor-filled rock group DNR. They play at places like the Levitt Pavilion, and fundraisers for pancreatic and breast cancer, Norwalk Hospital and ALS.
“The Laramie Project” — the Unitarian Church of Westport’s weekend play — was a simple but powerful production examining the aftermath of the 1998 murder of gay University of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard.
It was also timely, coming on the same weekend a man killed 5 patrons of a gay club in Colorado Springs, and wounded many others.
After the actors took their bows, the audience remained for an insightful talkback.
“Laramie Project” talkback, at the Unitarian Church. (Hat tip and photo/Jill Johnson Mann)
A number of new retailers and restaurants have joined the Holiday Stroll.
The December 3 event (5 to 7 p.m., Main Street and environs) is co-sponsored by “06880” and the Westport Downtown Association. There’s kids’ activities (and Santa!) in front of Cold Fusion, special store deals, cocoa and nibbles, and plenty of neighborly fun.
Greens Farms Academy’s Harbor Blues will sing holiday songs at 5 p.m. Staples High School’s Orphenians will follow at 6:30. Both will be at the tent in front of Cold Fusion.
In addition, Nick Calabrese — a professional singer and music teacher — will lead anyone who wants to join in on a carol sing through downtown. It starts at the corner of Main and Elm Streets at 5 p.m., and will head on to Church Lane and back up Main. Everyone is invited to listen — or sing.
A box will be set up for donations for the PAL holiday toy drive. Feel free to bring an unwrapped, new gift (or two!).
(NOTE: There’s still room for a face painter, and other kids’ stuff. If you’ve got a kids’ talent and want to help, email 06880blog@gmail.com).
Meanwhile, here’s the latest list of Holiday Stroll participants:
Bartaco: Hot chocolate on their patio
Basso:
Black Bear Wines & Spirits: 15% off all wines
Bobbles & Lace: Glass of wine & Bobbles Bucks ($$$ off your purchase)
Bridgewater Chocolates: Complimentary chocolate tastings and hot chocolate
Brooks Brothers: The entire store is 30% off all weekend
Capuli: Giving out churros
Cold Fusion Gelato: Check back soon!
Don Memo: Giving out festive adult and children’s beverages
Fred: Complimentary holiday treats
Jeera Thai: 20% off on takeout meals
Joe’s Pizza: Garlic knots
Kerri Rosenthal: 15% off read-to-wear and accessories
Le Route Aartisan Chocolates: Free hot chocolate
Lift Wellness Group: Discount on bundled psychotherapy and nutrition services; gift cards with 10% discount
Lux Bond & Green: Refreshments and surprises
Manna Toast: Hot chocolate
Megan’s Martha’s Vineyard Boutique: 20% off, and a giveaway bundle
Moxie Salon & Beauty Bar: Spin The Wheel to Win! 20% off hair extensions; $20 off voucher; $25, $50, $75, $100, $200 gift certificates; complimentary spray tan or blowout; $50 off Balayyage or Ombre; complimentary makeup application, girls hair tinsel and/or braids
Nomade: Candied almonds in bamboo cone, and cookies
Noya Jewelry: Hot holiday drinks
Rye Ridge Deli: Free hot chocolate, tea, coffee
Savvy + Grace: Holiday treat, and mailbox for kids to drop off letters to Santa
Scout & Molly’s: 20% off purchase, light snacks
Sorelle Gallery: Gif boxes with discounts from 5 to 15% for any Holiday Collection item; light festive refreshments (prosecco, candy canes, sparkling water, etc.)
The Cashmere Sale of Westport: Holiday candy
The Tailored Home & Studio Café: Complimentary Santa’s cookies and hot chocolate; 50% off sale on all pillows
The Toy Post: A small toy for each child
Upnorth: 20% off, and a giveaway
West: Raffle for $150 gift card (no purchase necessary); winner drawn at 7:30 p.m.
Walrus Alley: Happy hour prices for food and drinks
Westport Book Shop: Free book, and a coupon for a future visit
Winfield Street Street Coffee: Hot cocoa and cruffins (pecan cinnamon rolls with a croissant dough)
Former Boston Red Sox pitcher John Trautwein spoke last night at Town Hall on a tough but very important subject: suicide.
He runs the nonprofit Will To Live Foundation. Raising awareness of teen suicide, it is named after Trautwein’s son Will, who took his life. There were no warnings — no signs of anxiety, depression or unhappiness.
His message about his son — a healthy, happy, popular, athletic, and musical teenager, who came from a loving home yet lost the will to live — resonated deeply with the audience.
John Trautwein at Town Hall. (Hat tip and photo/Andrew Colabella)
That’s the 12-unit condo complex rising on the west bank of the Saugatuck River, at the site of the former Save the Children (and before that, Famous Schools) offices.
The buildings were designed by Roger Ferris + Partners. They’re built by David Waldman’s David Adam Realty and Urbane New Haven, and are marketed by KMS Team, at Compass. They’ll be finished next year.
Staples High School’s girls soccer team battles for its 2nd consecutive state championship this Sunday (November 20). The Wreckers — ranked #3 in the “LL” (extra large schools) division — take on #1 Cheshire. Kickoff is 4 p.m. at Trinity Health (formerly Dillon) Stadium in Hartford.
Meanwhile, you can see Staples’ future football stars in action.
The PAL 7th and 8th grade teams play for the Fairfield County Football League title tomorrow (Saturday) at Wilton High’s Fujitani Filed. Game times are 4 and 6 p.m.
The League of Women Voters welcomed Westport’s registrars of voters — Democrat Deb Greenberg and Republican Marie Signore — for post-election coffee yesterday, at VFW Post 399.
The registrars said that nearly 65% of eligible Westporters voted in last week’s election The statewide average was 57%.
They noted an increase in young voters, and hailed the efforts of Staples High School students — many of them not yet eligible to cast ballots — for their work at the polls.
“We have amazing poll workers,” Greenberg said. “The first things we do after an election are thank them, and pay them.”
Connecticut LWV president Laura Smith said that for registrars everywhere, Election Day is long, but satisfying and worthwhile.
Smith also hailed the voting process in Connecticut. “It’s safe and secure,” she said. “There are so many checks and balances.”
Though it may mean more work for registrars, there was praise that a ballot measure to allow the General Assembly to provide for early voting passed, by about a 60-40 margin.
If legislators approve, details like where exactly to vote, and for how long, would be ironed on. Connecticut is one of only 4 states — with Alabama, Mississippi and New Hampshire — to not provide early voting.
The Westport Police have released arrest reports for November 9-16.
Six people were detained in custody.
One had many counts: larceny, 1st degree; conspiracy to commit larceny; forgery; conspiracy to commit forgery; telephone fraud; conspiracy to commit telephone fraud; criminal impersonation; conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation; illegal use of credit card; conspiracy to commit illegal use of credit card; fraudulent use of automated teller machine; conspiracy to commit fraudulent use of automated teller machine; identity theft; conspiracy to commit identity theft. and failure to appear.
An accomplice was charged with larceny 4th degree; forgery; telephone fraud; illegal use of credit card; criminal impersonation; fraudulent use of automated teller machine; identity theft — and conspiracy to commit all those acts.
There was one arrest for identity theft; receipt of money, goods, services by illegal credit card use; larceny, 2nd degree; forgery, and criminal impersonation.
One person was arrested for possession of controlled substance (narcotics); drug paraphernalia; tampering with or fabricating physical evidence, and interfering with an officer/simple assault.
One person was charged with 2 counts of both larceny, 6th degree, and conspiracy to commit a crime.
One person was charged with violation of a restraining order (threatening).
Arline Gertzoff was a proud 1964 Staples High School graduate. After her death this fall, Staples Tuition Grants has created an award in her honor.
STG encourages Arline’s many friends — from her work with the jUNe Day United Nations hospitality committee, to the Representative Town Meeting and local politics — to donate in Arline’s honor. Click here for that link; click here to learn more about Arline.
Staples Tuition Grants provides over $400,000 a year, to over 100 graduating seniors and alumni already in college. Click here to learn more about STG.
The long Thanksgiving weekend will be filled with activities at Earthplace. They’re perfect for visiting relatives and friends (and everyone else).
Two miles of trails are open from dawn to dusk. Walk off your Thanksgiving turkey — or see one in the wild. The 62-acre wildlife sanctuary includes fields, forests, ponds and a stream. Some trails are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Click here for a trail map.
“Saturdays at Earthplace”: Explore the sanctuary, create art, climb trees, identify flora and fauna, get dirty, catch bugs and enjoy the great outdoors. All ages. Click here for details.
Family campfire (Saturday, November 26, 1:30 to 3 p.m.). A guided activity with s’mores and animals. Click here for details.
“Story and Animal Program” runs Mondays through Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. For children 5 and under. Click here for details.
Birds of prey feeding takes place daily at 11 a.m. Learn about diets, behavior and care. Click here for details.
Earthplace also offers holiday shopping (reusable water bottles and travel straws, t-shirts, hoodies, hats, stuffed animals, books, honey and more), and science box kits with themes like acids and bases, birds, ecosystems, plants, pollution and polymer ($35 per box; call 203-557-4400 or email info@earthplace.org).
One of Earthplace’s many trails. (Photo/Rowene Weems)
The New York Post does not often cover high culture.
But the tabloid takes note of Beechwood’s Arts & Innovation Series — as well as Beechwood itself.
The Weston Road home of internationally renowned pianist Frederic Chiu and his wife, artist Jeanine Esposito, is on the market for $2.59 million. Built in 1806, the magnificent 7-bedroom home on 2.63 acres has been the site of a decades-long series of events, bringing together creative people from the worlds of music, art, dance, design, food and more.
The Post recounts some of Beechwood’s history too, from visits by Abraham Lincoln, George Washington and Frederick Law Olmsted (and possibly Buffalo Bill and Rock Hudson).
Click here for the full New York Post story. Click here for the real estate listing.
The Staples High School girls soccer team is getting ready to defend their state championship.
The Wreckers got 3 goals from the Chudowsky sisters — 2 by Natalie, 1 from Evelyn — to shut out Glastonbury 3-0 last night, at Naugatuck High. Staples was ranked 3rd in the state “LL” (extra large school) tournament. The Titans were 2nd.
This Saturday or Sunday (day and time TBD) at Trinity Health (formerly Dillon) Stadium in Hartford, coach Barry Beattie’s squad will face top-rated Cheshire. They edged Ridgefield 2-1 in the other semifinal.
Last year the Wreckers and Ridgefield shared the title, after tying 0-0 through 80 minutes of regulation play, and 30 minutes of overtime.
This year, one team will definitely win. State tourney rules have been changed, adding penalty kicks to decide a winner instead of co-champions.
The Staples girls soccer team. (Photo/JC Martin courtesy of Westport Local Press)
In other Staples sports news, sophomore Annam Olasewere broke 2 state records in the girls swimming state meet.
Her 1:47.86 finish at 200 meters smashed a 17-year-old mark. Annam then busted her own record by .26 seconds in the 100 freestyle with a 49.88 time.
Overall, the Wreckers finished 5th, with 431 points. Ridgefield won the team title, with 761.
Greens Farms Academy’s new theater director Kellie Comer is getting ready for her first musical there.
The Upper School’s “The Lightning Thief” opens tonight (Thursday, 7:30 p.m.). Shows continue tomorrow and Sunday at 7:30, with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $5 at the door. Click here to read more about the show, and its director.
Kellie Comer (Photo courtesy of GFA Dragon Digest)
Also last night: The Conservative Synagogue‘s Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn and his wife Riki were feted by the New York Board of Rabbis. The couple received a 2022 Humanitarian of the Year Award, at the Pierre Hotel.
A former president of the board, Rabbi Wiederhorn’s most recent humanitarian effort was delivering clothing, food and other aid to Ukrainian refugees in Poland, in the early days of Ukraine’s war with Russia.
The rabbi and his wife were in good company last night. Former US Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer received the same Humanitarian of the Year honor.
Rabbi Jeremy and Riki Wiederhorn, at last night’s awards ceremony. (Photo/Avi Kaner)
Yesterday’s Roundup featured a $7.9 million house. It’s being built on one of the most famous spots in Westport: 233 Hillspoint Road, site of the former Positano restaurant.
Diagonally across the street, at 246 Hillspoint, there’s another well-known home. Built in 1930, it’s the last remaining bungalow on the increasingly modern (and pricey) stretch of water-view road.
Of course you know it:
At 695 square feet, with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom on a 3,049-square foot lot, it could have been yours — for a mere $2 million.
But you had to act fast. Offers were due by Sunday
I don’t know a lot about real estate. But I’m guessing the buyer does not plan to live there as is.
So that $2 million is just a starting point. (Hat tip: John Richers)
David Winther graduated from Staples High School in 2006. He went on to a career as a talent agent (focusing on music and arena touring. He works now in Los Angeles at Elite World Group as a director of global partnerships. He also owns Winther Agency, which strikes brand and licensing deals for content creators.
The other day, he was interviewed by ShoutOut LA. Asked who deserved credit for his success, he gave shout-outs to 2 people from his Westport past: his mother Lynn, and his mentor Jack Klinge.
David said:
My 2 sisters and I got to grow up in Westport, CT, an affluent town with great education systems that push kids academically, athletically etc. to excel. She worked 2 fulltime jobs to get us a “slot” in that town. Ma missed a lot of soccer games, football games, lacrosse games, band recitals to afford that town. I think there was a certain teenage angst I had where I didn’t understand it and actually grew distant from her for a while. Now, in my mid-30s I see what she did and what she keeps doing and how much she gave for her kids. I know she would do it again in a second.
Second, Jack Klinge. I didn’t have a father figure at all my entire life. The town of Westport has a great program that mentors kids who may not have the “typical” nuclear family… In my case I was a latchkey kid in a rich town. Jack and I met when I was in 2nd grade and we started off our first day by going outside and playing soccer against each other. The relationship was great. He became more like a grandfather figure who would give me sage advice and be at my games. He would be proud. I know he is proud, even though I thoroughly believe he still doesn’t understand what I do, haha!
Thank you Mom. Thank you Jack.
In a follow-up conversation, David told “06880”:
I owe everything I am as a person and a professional to my upbringing and my roots. My roots will always be with Westport. Without the strong leaders like Cathy Schager, Jack Klinge, John Dodig, David Roth and many many more, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
To any parent reading this: Please trust in Westport. There is a special love and care for its community to succeed in whatever they want to do in life.
Rick Tripodi was the beloved music director and organist at Green’s Farms Congregational Church.
That organ was close to Rick’s heart. As a teenager in 1965, he attended its dedication.
Classically trained, with a master’s degree in organ performance from Juilliard, Rick designed the refurbishment of the Peragallo/Walker organ during the church’s recent renovation project.
Sadly, he died just 2 days before the instrument was reinstalled.
The organ will be re-dedicated this Sunday (November 20, 4 p.m.). Justin Bischof — known internationally for his improvisations — will play. His program will include themes submitted by the audience.
Pianist Brian Marsella returns to “Jazz at the Post” this Thursday (November 17; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 6:30 p.m.; VFW Post 399, 465 Riverside Avenue).
He’s joined by bassist Reid Taylor, drummer Brian Floody and the “Jazz Rabbi,” saxophonist Greg Wall.
The cover charge is $15. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
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