Category Archives: Real estate

Roundup: Real Estate, Food, Trees …

Posted on April 9, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: Real Estate, Food, Trees …

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The 1st quarter of 2022 is in the books. That means it’s time for some real estate stats.

Westport had 86 house closings, a 25% decrease from a year ago but
still the 2nd-most number of closings for this period since 2006.

The average house closing price of $2.2 million was the highest for the quarter in the past 2 decades. The average closed price per square foot rose to $509, up 23% from a year ago.

Reflecting high demand and low inventory, houses in the quarter sold on average for 102% of the list price — the 4th  straight quarter that average has been over 100%

Eight-five Westport houses were pending (properties with signed contracts) on March 31. That’s down slightly from the end of March 2021, but still high by historical measure.  (Hat tip: Rose Marie Colletti, Brown Harris Stevens)

This Bluewater Hill home is on the market for $12 million.

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Two years ago, Westport Farmers’ Market started its #Who Grows Your Food” campaign. The goal was to expand people’s knowledge of what farmers look like, to gain more support foro local agriculture.

Anne Burmeister and Ashley Skatoff offered to help. They lent their photographer lenses and creativity, capturing the essence of the farmers while creating an intimate story that eaters could follow along with.

Last fall, the Farmers’ Market partnered with MoCA Westport. Dozens of Burmeister and Skatoff’s stunning photographs became part of an art exhibit called “Between the Ground and the Sky.”

Now, those 52 photos from over 15 farms are available for purchase.

Each 18″ x 27″ original print (23″ x 32″ with border) is $500. All are signed and dated by the artist. The print includes information about the farm and photo, plus text created by the artist for the display at MoCA. The certificate is signed by the farmer.

All proceeds support WFM programming. Purchased photos may be picked up at the first 3 markets of the season: May 12, 19 and May 26.

For more information and to purchase, click here.

“Chicken Tractors” by Anne Burmeister is one of 52 Farmers’ Market photos available for sale.

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Arbor Day is near — and the Westport Tree Board is ready. Among the events throughout the month:

Saturday, April 23 (10:30 a.m. to noon, Jesup Green, free): The Tree Board and Westport Book Shop celebrate Earth Day with a fun event to promote reading for all ages, with attention also on the value of trees. Interactive family-friendly activities involving reading and early learning; educational materials and a native tree sapling giveaway, courtesy of Bartlett Tree Company.

Friday April 29 (Arbor Day, 3 to 4 p.m., Town Hall, free):  The Tree Board hosts their annual native sapling giveaway, plus brochures and advice from professional associations on tree-related topics, from site selection to proper maintenance.  Native saplings for giveaway are donated by Bartlett Tree.

Saturday, April 30 (3 to 4 p.m., Earthplace): The Tree Board hosts a live discussion and free information session with a tree professional on the basics of tree planting and maintenance, including selection, mulching, pruning, pest management and more. Native tree saplings, courtesy of Bartlett, will be available while they last.

As part of Arbor Day, Earthplace also hosts a “Toast To The Trees” family event 4 to 6 p.m.), with kids’ activities and s’mores, handmade pizza, beverages for adults and kids, plus a “tree walk” tour.  Click here to purchase tickets.

Beginning mid-April, the Tree Board and Westport Library will create a “StoryWalk” at the Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum (2 Woodside Lane).  The featured book is “Be a Tree!” For more information, click here.

A Norway maple at the Wadsworth Arboretum.

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Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice offered a video update yesterday. He covered 4 areas:

The 5-year capital forecast to bring all schools — especially Long Lots and Coleytown Elementary — up to the district’s standards.

The uptick in the COVID Omicron sub-variant.

The Westport Public Schools’ ongoing equity study.

Ukrainian refugees. Scarice notes that Westport has already welcomed some to town, and any student settling here will be accommodated — as will all refugees from anywhere who come to Westport. He asks anyone with any information on refugees in Westport to call his office: 203-341-1025.

Click here to view the video update.

A screenshot of Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice, giving a video update from his office.

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Speaking of Westport Public Schools: Horace Lewis was the beloved head custodian at Staples High School, and served the district for 3 decades. He suffered a stroke shortly after retiring last summer, and died in December.

Classrooms, hallways, teaching kitchens, storage areas, auditorium, gym, fieldhouse, cafeteria, library, TV studio, boilers and HVAC systems — Horace kept them all sparkling and working. Despite a stressful job, staff and students knew Horace as the walkie-talkie carrying, most cheerful custodian.

Over the years, countless students (and parents) enlisted Horace’s help after leaving coats, backpacks, sporting equipment and phones at school. Even after his official retirement, Horace stayed on to help the schools cope with COVID cleaning requirements.

To honor Horace’s legacy of hard work, service to others and positive outlook, Staples Tuition Grants has created a scholarship in his name. The first need-based award will be offered this year. Click here to donate to this special fund.

Horace Lewis

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Among the most impressive parts of Westport Country Playhouse’s production of “Next to Normal”: the set.

Like everything that appears on the Playhouse stage, it was constructed by the in-house production staff — with help from  Jake Krasniewicz, assistant box office manager.

But that’s not his only side gig.

The Stratford native plays bass, ukulele, guitar, banjo and synthesizer. At Berklee College of Music he studied film scoring.

After graduating, Jake spent time in Boston’s music scene. When he returned to Connecticut, he formed Drop Party. The band plays an amalgam of genres, and call their style “a way to access emotions without sounding like radio music.”

Drop Party is part of this weekend’s Westport Library VersoFest. On Sunday (April 10, 7 p.m.), they open for Selwyn Birchwood.

What does all this have to do with building the set?  After college, Jake helped out at his father’s welding shop. The Playhouse technical director recruited the assistant box office manager to help with the extensive welding needed for the “Next to Normal” set.

He particularly enjoys funk. But it seems “heavy metal” is also one of Jake’s outlets. (Hat Tip: Bruce Miller)

Jake Krasniewicz takes a break from ticket sales and music,, to help create the “Next to Normal” set.

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There’s always something going on Westport — and much of it flies under the radar. And I do mean “radar.”

Last Saturday, over 100 automotive enthusiasts and industry leaders filled
the Autostrada facility — formerly the Steinway piano showroom — to kick off the Piston Foundation’s 2022 season.

Attendees came from across the US and Europe. They heard the non-profit
foundation lay out its mission to “bring more young people into the collector car industry so the craftspeople who built this American touchstone can transfer their skills to a new generation.”

The site included a “collection of exotic automobiles.” A silent auction raised funds for students and apprentices to pursue careers in automotive craft, restoration specialties and service.

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Staples High School seniors Sophie Alcyone and Alexandra Maskoff were honored this week, at the 27th annual High School Arts Awards ceremony.

Selected by the Staples staff, Sophie was recognized for visual art, Maskoff for music. The event was sponsored by the Connecticut Association of Schools.

From left: Sophie Alcyone and Alexandra Maskoff.

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With spring arriving fitfully, Jonathan Alloy offers 2 “Westport … Naturally” photo.

He writes: “My wife Sarah hung a pretty seasonal wreath on our front door, which real birds used to build a real nest — now complete with real eggs! Robins perhaps?”

Here’s the wreath:

And the eggs:

(Photos/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … the Westport Library’s VersoFest (see story above) and Talking Heads’ Chris Frantz present an intriguing concert tonight (7 p.m.). Headliners are Enid Ze and Daniprobably. Click below for a sneak listen; click here for ticket information, and more.

 

 

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Posted in Education, Environment, Library, Real estate, Staples HS, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

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Drew Angus’ Wrecking Ball

Posted on April 7, 2022 | 6 comments

This old house is quiet now
But I still hear the sounds
The Stones on the stereo
Mets on the radio
Mom screaming turn it down
Dust on the shelves
Dents in the rug where my bed once rested
Tomorrow the Wrecking Ball tears it down.

The words may be unfamiliar. But the feelings resonate with anyone whose childhood home was chopped down.

Just like the one on Colony Road, where Drew Angus grew up.

I still see my family and me
Framed on the walls
My brother’s first steps
Big wheel wrecks
And the fire pit in the fall
You might see some shutters and shingles 
But to me it’s something sacred
Tomorrow the Wrecking Ball tears it down.

Drew’s parents moved there in 1994, when he was 4 years old. Four houses shared one driveway.

Drew Angus’ Colony Road home.

“It was such a fun place to grow up,” he says. “We rode our bikes to school. There was a huge ravine in the back. We played manhunt, hide-and-seek and paintball. It was the best trick-or-treating spot in town, before Gault.”

Drew graduated from Staples High School in 2007. He’s now a singer/songwriter, with a great following. This summer, he’ll join the Lumineers and Stevie Nicks at Bridgeport’s Sound on Sound Festival.

Drew Angus

He sings about what he knows. One of those is that his childhood home is now just a memory.

Oh tomorrow the Wrecking Ball tears it 
Down to the dirt in a cloud of dust
22 years and what’s left of us
Surrenders to the Wrecking Ball
Oh, surrenders to the Wrecking Ball.

Drew had so much to write about. He and co-writer Neil Herman captured some of his feelings in the lyrics above and below. But he remembers so much more: The scratches on the floor from a rowdy sleepover. The spot where orange soda spilled during a birthday party. His bedroom wall, painted like a western movie scene.

Not all the memories are great, of course. But right now, they’re all he has.

That, and his song.

If this old house could speak somehow
What would it say?
Thanks for the memories
But just like a melody
It’s my time to fade away
Take one last look
Carve your name in the door
And kick out the kitchen windows
‘Cause tomorrow the Wrecking Ball tears it down.

“Wrecking Ball” cover.

The backhoe creaked up the driveway. Drew asked if he could hop in. The operator showed him which lever to push. Within seconds, the garage came tumbling down.

Oh tomorrow the Wrecking Ball tears it
Down to the dirt in a cloud of dust
22 years and what’s left of us
Surrenders to the Wrecking Ball
Oh Surrenders, surrenders
Surrenders, surrenders
Surrenders to the Wrecking Ball.

The lyrics, he says, are “some of the truest to my heart of any song I’ve written.”

It’s tough to put himself out there like that. And countless other people are losing their homes for other reasons, like foreclosures and bombs.

But, Drew says, “this is my story.”

And — at least in “06880,” and places like this — it’s many of his fans’ stories too.

This old house is quiet now 
But I still hear the sounds…

(Click here to stream Drew Angus’ “Wrecking Ball” on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and other platforms.)

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Posted in Entertainment, Real estate, Staples HS

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Roundup: Memorial Day Parade, Bright Lights, Knotweed …

Posted on April 6, 2022 | 6 comments

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And the grand marshal of the 2022 Memorial Day parade is … Jean Wells.

Born 104 years ago in Indiana (!), she moved to Westport in 1926, Jean attended Bedford Elementary School (now Town Hall), and Katherine Gibbs School.

In 1943 she joined SPARS, the women’s division of the Coast Guard. She attained the rank of Yeoman 2nd Class, and was discharged in 1945. Jean returned to Westport, and in 1957 married David Wells.  They have 2 sons, David and Jonathan.

Jean has been active with the Red Cross, and volunteered at Norwalk Hospital for over 32 years.  She also visits with her fellow veterans at the VA hospital.

Her selection as grand marshal fits well with this year’s Memorial Day parade float contest them: “Honoring Women Veterans.”

The Memorial Day parade begins at 9 a.m. on May 30. A ceremony follows immediately, on Veterans Green.   

Jean Wells and her caregiver, Simone Nevi, at her 102nd birthday in 2019.

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Last month, “06880” reported on a dispute between residents of Cottage Lane and SIR Development. Neighbors complained that lights from the new construction at 1480 Post Road East were shining brightly onto their property.

On Monday, the Planning & Zoning Commission voted 5-2 to approve the original lighting plan that had been passed by a subcommittee, and supported by Cottage Lane homeowners. SIR had requested that a later plan, submitted by them, be okayed.

Click here for the full story, first reported in Westport Journal.

Lights at 1480 Post Road East. (Photo/Chris Grimm)

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Swoon — the great antiques/art/accessories/custom furniture/design services space in Sconset Square — was the setting last night for Jane Green’s launch party.

The bazillion-selling author (and longtime Westporter) just published her first novel inspired by a true story, “Sister Stardust” re-imagines the life of troubled 1960’s icon Talitha Getty, as only Jane Green can.

Jane Green, at her launch party. (Photo/Jerri Graham)

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Speaking of Sconset Square: Josh Levkoff and Stacey Lewis (and their 2 toddlers) are new in town. They run their own small businesses, and are looking to get involved in many ways.

Josh — a jeweler — is wasting no time. He’s teamed up with Bespoke Designs, for a “Sip and Shop” event tomorrow (Thursday, April 7, 5 to 7 p.m.) and Friday (April 8, 10 to 3 p.m.), at Bespoke (in Sconset Square).

He’s already got the Westport spirit. A portion of the proceeds will go to MoCA Westport, for children’s programming.

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Prince Charles’ goddaughter is coming to town.

Designer, entrepreneur and humanitarian India Hicks — recently feature in People Magazine — headlines a special event at MoCA Westport (May 12, 5 to 7 p.m.).

After a cocktail hour, India will chat with CT Cottages & Gardens editor-in-chief DJ Carey about her most recent book, “An Entertaining Story.”

Tickets includes hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and a copy of her book. Click here to purchase.

India Hicks

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Nix the knotweed!

That’s the title of Aspetuck Land Trust’s next “Lunch & Learn” (April 13, noon to 1:15 p.m., Zoom).

Natural gardener Suzanne Thompson offers an overview of the worst invasive plants in the area (yeah you, mugwort, garlic mustard, multiflora rose, Japanese barberry, and of course knotweed).

She’ll talk about how to remove or combat them, and re-establish native ecosystems that support pollinators, wildlife and insects. Click here to register.

Suzanne Thompson

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Sports and entertainment — two of America’s most popular and fascinating industries — intersect at the Westport Library on April 26 (6:15 p.m. reception, 7:15 p.m. program).

Westporter Mark Shapiro talks about his career — first with ESPN, now at Endeavor (the talent and media agency with clients in movies, television, music, theater, digital media and publishing — and the NFL, NHL and Ultimate Fighting Championship).

He’ll chat with author and investigative journalist Jim Miller. It’s the next “Andrew Wilk Presents …,” courtesy of the “Live at Lincoln Center” producer.

The event is free. Click here to register to attend in person, or via Zoom.

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Tickets are selling fast for “Next to Normal,” the first Westport Country Playhouse production of the 2022 season.

But you don’t have to see the show to be part of a series of special events, delving deeply into the theme of mental illness.

“Next to Normal: Dig Deeper” is free, and open to all. The sessions begin approximately 2 1/2 hours after the curtain time.

Tom Kitt, the show’s composer, is the guest this Sunday (April 10, 3 p.m. curtain). He’ll discuss his musical that received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and 2 Tony Awards for Best Score and Best Orchestrations.

Other programs include post-play dialogues with the audience. The first is a conversation about the music from “Next to Normal” and its significance to the subject matter (Thursday, April 7).

Pastoral counseling services and spiritual well-being will be discussed with Rev. Dr. Bernard Wilson of Norfield Congregational Church (April 12).

A perspective on the musical’s mental health themes will be presented by Dr. Jeffrey Borenstein, CEO of the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation, on April 19. He discusses how to live with and help people coping with mental illness

Resources for those living with mental illness will be explored by Linda Autore, CEO of Laurel House, on April 22.

Click here for more information on “Next to Normal.”

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Caravan of Thieves — the gypsy jazz/acoustic guitar/upright bass/violin/ mesmerizing harmony group, including Staples High grad Dan Asher — brings its magic to the Unitarian Church’s Voices Café this Saturday (April 9, 8 p.m., in-person and livestreamed).

The press release calls Caravan of Thieves “theatrical, humorous and intense … (they) defy classification, and music loving fans may feel compelled to join the band in momentary fits of claps, snaps and sing-alongs.

Voices Café and Caravan of Thieves share a commitment to social justice. A portion of the concert proceeds benefit community organizations under the Unitarian Church in Westport’s social justice programs, including anti-racism, identity and equity, immigration and refugee efforts, and local programs that serve under-resourced communities.

Groups of 4 or more can reserve table space. For more information and tickets, click here.

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It’s baaaaaaaaack!

One of our town’s most beloved — and ephemeral — signs of spring has returned, right (or slightly ahead of) schedule.

The “Daffodil Mile” (measured liberally) is again in bloom, alongside Main Street in front of Willowbrook Cemetery.

It’s one of our favorite “Westport … Naturally” sights.

Given the state of the world, it’s more treasured today than ever.

(Photo/Arlene Yolles)

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And finally … in honor of the “Westport … Naturally” photo above:

 

 

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Local business, Local politics, Real estate, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Salad Winners, Staples Fencers, SpongeBob …

Posted on April 4, 2022 | 3 comments

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Over 1,000 salad-eaters cast votes in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s month-long Great Westport Salad Contest.

And the winners are …

  • Best Caesar Salad: Romanacci
  • Best Chef Salad: Joe’s Pizza
  • Best Cobb Salad: La Plage
  • Best Deli Salad: A&S Fine Foods
  • Best Greens Salad: The Porch
  • Best Make Your Own Salad: Parker Mansion
  • Best Mediterranean Salad: Manna Toast  
  • Best Unique Salad: Capuli.
  •  Honorable Mention (coming within 5 votes of the winner): Calise’s

Winners received plaques to hang. Each winner will also offer a free  salad to eight lucky voters who won the lottery in the category they voted for.

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Ruth Steinkraus Cohen was a remarkable woman.

A Juilliard-trained pianist and teacher; a singer, editor, radio host and activist; secretary to Eleanor Roosevelt at the World Federation of the United Nations Association; founder of the International Hospitality Committee of Fairfield County, and Westport’s jUNe Day celebration; publisher of the worldwide “United Nations Calendar for Peace”; music chair of the Friends of Music for almost 40 years; co-founder and/or noard member of the New York Chamber Soloists, Performers of Connecticut, the Opera Company of Boston, Opera New England, Young Audiences of Connecticut, and Westport’s Art Advisory Committee — it’s no wonder our town’s downtown bridge is named for her.

The Steinkraus name is in the news again — at least, the real estate news.

A trust owned by the Steinkraus family (including Ruth’s late brother Bill, a 1968 Olympic equestrian gold medalist) has listed their amazing “Grand Great Island” property — off the Darien coast — for sale.

Located on a 60-acre island, it includes a stable, riding rings and grand house (called a “villa”), plus a whiskey and wine cellar with contents dating back to Prohibition.

Called “the largest private island ever to be offered for sale on the East Coast,” it can be yours for just $100 million. Click here for details. (Hat tip: Wendy Crowther)

Great Island, now up for sale by the Steinkraus estate.

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Congratulations to the Staples High School fencing team — the state champion fencing team, that is.

What? You didn’t know Staples had a fencing team?!

That’s okay. This is their first year. Eight fencers, coached by Jim Roberts, competed against 9 schools in the state tournament last month, at North Haven High. The Wreckers edged Fairfield 5-4 for the title.

Congratulations to junior Gleb Syomichev, sophomores Max Piterbarg and PJ Loranger. Fencing club co-founder Anna Pan, a senior, helped out.

(From left): Gleb Syomichev, PJ Loranger, Anna Pan and Max Piterbarg,

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There’s lots of recycling in “The SpongeBob Musical.” When the curtain rises this weekend on Coleytown Company’s spring show, the middle schoolers will have incorporated it into their sets.

Working with art teacher Linda Kangro, students took Jordan Janota’s designs and built them all out of garbage and recycling donated by the community.

Kangro let the youngsters into the recycling and trash, and told them to use their imaginations. The result will be something to see. No word, though, on whether they’ll recycle the set to use in the next show.

(“The SpongeBob Musical” will be produced Friday, April 8 (7 p.m.); Saturday, April 9 (7 p.m.) and Sunday, April 10 (1 p.m.). Click here for tickets.

Eli Abrams (as Perch Perkins) with recycled “coral” on the proscenium.

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Play ball!

This year marks the 40th season for the Boss Boys’ Sunday morning softball game. They play at the field behind Town Hall, with stretching and batting practice from 9 to 9:30, and a game afterward.

They’re looking for new players. The cost is $30 for the season; it covers bats, balls, scoring books and “maybe a holiday barbecue.”

Interested? Email bryan.alix@gmail for details.

When this photo was taken in 1992, the Boss Boys’ softball game had already been going for 10 years. It’s lasted 30 more since.

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Former Westporter Jack Grogins — known for his quick wit and passion for tennis, jazz music and rare books — died last week. He was 91.

The Norwalk native and University of Connecticut graduate (undergraduate and law school) enlisted in the Navy in 1956. He went on to practice in the field of insurance defense at the Hartford Insurance Company in 1958.

Jack started his own law practice in 1961. He also served for many years as a part-time prosecutor for the Bridgeport Circuit Court.

As a young man, Jack taught tennis and competed in tournaments around Connecticut. He continued into his 60s, ranking among the top tennis players in the Connecticut Senior Olympics.

He realized his life-long dream with his appointment as a Superior Court judge in 1994. He remained in that position until 2001, when he became a judge trial Referee. Jack remained a highly respected jurist until his retirement in 2018.

Jack was predeceased by his wife Marilyn. He is survived by his daughter, Judge Auden Grogins (Ian), sister-in-law Arlene Glotzer, niece Helen Glotzer, and cousin Molly Passero and her 4 children.

Funeral services will be held tomorrow (Tuesday, April 5, 10 a.m., Abraham L. Green & Son Funeral Home, Fairfield). The family will receive visitors prior to the service, at 9 a.m. Shiva will be observed tomorrow from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the family residence.

Jack Grogins

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We can never get enough osprey photos. Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image was taken yesterday. Carolyn Doan writes: “The Fresh Market osprey is bringing nesting material, while she sits in the sun. It’s all part of the mating phase.”

(Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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And finally … on this date in 1964, the Beatles occupied the first 5 — five! — spots on Billboard’s Hot 100. They’re below, from #1 to #5.

But that’s not all. They Fab 4 had another 7 songs on the charts that week: “I Saw Her Standing There” (#31), “From Me to You” (#41), “Do You Want to Know a Secret” (#46), “All My Loving” (#58), “You Can’t Do That” (#65), “Roll Over Beethoven” #(68) and “Thank You Girl” (#79).

Yeah, Beatlemania was a thing.

PS: I don’t care how old — or young — you are. These songs put a smile on everyone’s face.

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Posted in Children, Education, Entertainment, Obituaries, Real estate, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Julia Marino, Beach Digs, Beach Dogs …

Posted on April 1, 2022 | 5 comments

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A bigger crowd will honor Olympic medalist Julia Marino tomorrow than was on hand when she actually won it.

Spectators were not allowed on the Chinese mountain where the Westport native snagged her snowboard slopestyle silver. Her parents, sister and friends watched from half a world away, on Vivid-Tek’s big screen.

They — and many more fans — will fill the Trefz Forum tomorrow, for the town’s celebration.

But if you haven’t already registered, don’t try getting in. All the (free) tickets were gone in a few hours.

You can still see it, though. The 7 p.m. event will be livestreamed. Click here for the link.

Hey — if watching Julia win an Olympic medal on a screen was good enough for her family, doing the same for her celebration should be okay for you.

Julia Marino, on the Olympic podium. Tomorrow she’ll stand on the Library stage.

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Fashionably Westport — the Downtown Association’s great benefit for Project Return, the Homes with Hope program for homeless women — kicked off last night with a runway event at the Westport Library.

Fashionably Westport continues today (Friday, April 1) with activities and promotions at downtown and Playhouse Square retailers and salons

Participating merchants include Middlemarch, WEST, Noya Jewelry Design, FRED, Marine Layer, Splash of Pink, Southern Tide, Cotelac, Barbour, Stephen Kempson London, Express Edit, Winged Monkey, Fleet Feet, The Plumed Serpent, Bobbles & Lace, Brochu Walker, 7 For All Mankind, Splendid, Scout and Molly’s, Great Stuff, Pure Salon and Artistex.

Looking fashionable last night at the Library (from left): Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden, RTM member Sal Liccione, frequent food drive volunteer Anna Rycenga, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley.

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Some of Westport’s most historic, unique — and breathtaking — homes are for sale.

And they’re all next to each other, on one of Westport’s most historic and unique sites: Compo Mill Cove.

#44 — a 1917 bungalow — is the gray house, most visible (and most painted and photographed) from Old Mill Beach. The oldest one on the Cove, with original framing and fireplace intact, it’s accessible via a footpath and teak boardwalk, just beyond 2 wooden bridges.

Incredibly, it never floods. Even Superstorm Sandy did no damage. The price was recently reduced to $3.295 million.

Fun at 44 Compo Mill Cove.

Also on the market: #42 (the cottage rebuilt in 2006 by Michael Greenberg), and #48 Compo Mill Cove. Like #44, they’re owned by Robin Tauck, and feature natural plantings. Together, they’re on hundreds of feet of private beachfront.

42 Compo Mill Cove, aka “The Pirate Shack.”

There’s an open house for all 3 Sunday (April 3, 1 to 3 p.m.). Park in the Old Mill lot, and walk over the bridges.

PS: Though not owned by Robin, #46 is far sale too. That means all of the Cove point is for sale.

Buy one of these spectacular homes.

Or all 4!

44 Compo Mill Cove is the gray house on the right side of this photo. Other homes nearby are also for sale.

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April 1 is noteworthy for 2 things:

  • April Fool’s Day
  • The start of the 6-month dog ban at Westport beaches.

A couple of alert readers/avid dog owners captured the final day of Fido and Fifi’s freedom yesterday, at Compo.

Frank, Oggy, Utah and Winston (Photo/Nicola Sharian)

(Photo/Collette Winn)

See you October 1!

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Pause + Purpose — the new mindfulness studio, across from the Library on Jesup Road — calls its sessions “Pause for a Cause.”

From tomorrow through Monday (April 2-4), that cause is Ukraine. All proceeds from meditations hosted by the studio staff will go to World Central Kitchen, to help feed the Ukrainian people.

Click here to book a session. Click here to learn more about Pause + Purpose.

Inside Pause + Purpose.

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An “06880” reader sends this cautionary tale:

The other day, an older woman was shopping at HomeGoods, near Southport. She returned to her car — close to the store — and put her bags in the car.

A “normal-looking person” said, “Hey, be careful backing out. Your rear tire is flat.”

She got out to look. When she turned back around, he had already grabbed her purse and vanished.

Be careful out there.

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Some “Westport … Naturally” photos can sit for a while before I use them.

Not this one.

Soon, the branches will fill out. In a couple of weeks — fingers crossed — this image of Owenoke Park, looking toward Compo Beach, will seem very dated.

Fingers crossed, anyway.

(Photo/Jonathan Prager)

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And finally … in honor of today:

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Posted in Beach, Library, Local business, Police, Politics, Real estate, Sports

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Pics Of The Day #1806

Posted on March 28, 2022 | 3 comments

Bankside House — the 12-unit condo project at the site of the former Save the Children headquarters on Wilton Road — is rising rapidly.

Here is a look at the building, and some of the people building it.

(All photos/Rowene Weems Photography)

 

3 Comments

Posted in Pic of the Day, Real estate

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Roundup: Ukraine Rally, Morningside Subdivision, Virtual Bingo …

Posted on March 26, 2022 | 7 comments

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There’s a slight time change for today’s Support Ukraine rally on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge in downtown Westport.

The event — created quickly this week, in response to President Zelensky’s call for a global peace rally — begins at 11:30 a.m. this morning (Saturday). The event runs through 1 p.m.

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The long-rumored subdivision of one of Westport’s last remaining large residential open spaces is moving forward.

The first agenda item on the Planning & Zoning Commission’s April 4 meeting (7 p.m., Zoom) is an application for 6 building lots at 109 Morningside Drive South. That’s the property owned by the Kowalsky Family, off Clapboard Hill Road.

109 Morningside Drive South

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In the early days of the pandemic — when everyone hungered for human interaction, and Zoom was a novelty — Stan Witkow organized a virtual Bingo game.

Each week, players from Westport — and around the globe — competed. The winner donated his or her winnings to any charity of his or her choice.

In 2 years, players raised more than $20,000 for COVID-related non-profits.

The game continues. Now though, the weekly pool will support Ukrainian relief efforts. Witkow and friends created a list of reliable organizations from which winners can choose. So far, nearly $1,000 has gone to help Ukraine.

New players are welcome. Email stan@witkow.com.

A screenshot from the virtual Bingo game.

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We can never have enough osprey photos. And Carolyn Doan is one of the best photographers of our favorite raptors.

She took this shot this week, at the nest by Fresh Market. It’s a scene we’ll never tire of:

(Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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Wakeman Town Farm welcomes Easter with its 5th annual “EGGstravaganza.”

On Saturday April 9 (10 to 11;30 a.m.), families can bring egg baskets to WTF. Two hunts (ages 4 and under, and 5 and up) kick off the morning, followed by egg-themed games, story time readings, photos with Big Bunn and visits to the farm’s real animals.

New this year: Families can “adopt” a chicken, and meet and name it there.

Tickets are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Easter at Wakeman Town Farm,

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Speaking of Easter: If there’s a holiday ahead, Winslow Park Animal Hospital is ready.

Here’s the scene in front of the Post Road East clinic:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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The next holiday after Easter is … Arbor Day.

Earthplace celebrates with “A Toast to the Trees” on April 30 (4 to 6 p.m.).

There’s a trail walk, campfire, pizza, kids crafts, s’mores and (I guess this is the “toast” part) beer tastings. Click here for tickets.

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With in-person performances back at the Westport Country Playhouse, there’s a great need for … ushers.

They perform important tasks: greeting patrons, scanning tickets, distributing programs, answering questions and more.

Ushers must be at least 18, unless accompanied by a guardian who will usher with them. Ushers are paired to work together as a team. Dress code is white shirts and black skirts/pants.

For more information contact Kelly Richards Mikolasy, house manager: krichards@westportplayhouse.org; 203-571-1296.

Where’s my seat? Ushers know! (Photo/Robert Benson)

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Cloud Nine — a new designer consignment shop at 339 Main Street (next to Coffee An’) — celebrates its arrival with a special event on March 30.

That day, 10% of all proceeds go to AWARE. That great non-profit assists women through action, resources and education.]

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Last fall, the Westport Woman’s Club put out a call to non-profits needing assistance.

Dozens responded.

A few days ago, 29 organizations got their wish. The WWC handed out $39,000 in grants, to:

Bridgeport Caribe Youth Leaders; Bridgeport Rescue Mission; Burroughs Community Center; Caroline House;  Center for Family Justice; Child Advocates of Southwestern Connecticut; Circle of Care for Families of Children with Cancer; Circle of Friends; CLASP Homes; Domestic Violence Crisis Center;  ElderHouse; Family & Children’s Agency; Food Rescue US; Help for Kids; Homes with Hope; Human Services Council/Children’s Connection; Malta House; Person-to-Person; Positive Directions; REACH Youth Program at Bridgeport Hospital; Regional Hospice of Western Connecticut; St. Catherine Center for Special Needs; Sweet P Bakery; The Rowan Center; VFW; Westport Department of Human Services Family and Elderly Programs; Westport Community Theatre; Women’s Mentoring Network.

The Westport Woman’s Club has been helping others since 1907. Here’s to the next 115 years!

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Today’s colorful “Westport … Naturally” photo comes courtesy of Jeanine Esposito. She writes:

“A cardinal couple (who mate for life) joined lots of other newcomers in searching for a place to make a nest for their family in Westport. This is from our Beechwood window, on Weston Road.”

(Photo/Jeanine Esposito)

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And finally … you knew it was coming. To celebrate the opening of Cloud Nine, next to Coffee An’ (story above):

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Posted in Downtown, Environment, Local business, Politics, Real estate, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Green Acre Teardown, Tax Help, Ukraine Aid …

Posted on March 24, 2022 | 13 comments

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Westport teardowns happen so often, they’re not news.

This one might be.

A 5,400-square foot, 5-bedroom, 4 1/2-bathroom 1930 Tudor at 36 Green Acre Lane — well known by visitors to nearby Haskins Preserve — will be demolished soon. A 180-day waiting period set by the Historic District Commission has expired.

Westport Journal reports that property was sold in 2020 for $2,570,000. 

36 Green Acre Lane will be demolished soon.

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Who you gonna believe?

The sign on Jersey Mike’s says “Permanently Closed.” A couple of screen shots on social media show the Westport location as “Temporarily Closed for Renovation.” The app and website list it along with all the others as open.

Meanwhile, the phone rings there, but no one answers.

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It’s late March. April 15 — Tax Day — is closer than you think.

Help is closer than you think too — at least, for preparing your forms.

No-cost, full-service tax preparation assistance is available, with special attention to seniors and low- to moderate-income households.

The program — offered by Westport’s Department of Human Services, through VITA/IRS volunteers — includes both personal counseling by appointment at Town Hall and the Senior Center, and virtually through a secure website.

Counseling at Town Hall is available Mondays (1 to 6 p.m.) and the Senior Center (Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursdays from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.). Appointments are required; call 860-590-8910.

Click here for the virtual option.

The free Tax Assistance Program is available to all individual filers regardless of income or age. Last year, more than 5,000 returns were prepared and filed – almost all electronically – by the counselor group that services Westport. Federal refunds totaling $4,500,000 were received by clients..

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Staples High School Class of 1972 graduates Tom McCann and his wife Mary-Jo Birtwell McCann live on Nantucket now.

But they’re helping Ukraine relief efforts. And they invite Westporters to participate.

For the past 10 days, Mary-Jo shopped and shipped for items to send to 2 refugee centers in Poland. Next week, Tom and 4 others from the island will head to those centers, to assist personally.

Financial support is needed for the mission. Venmo this link, or send a check to: Tom McCann, 35 Hummock Pond Road, Nantucket, MA 02554.

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Speaking of Ukraine: Steve Taranko reports that a recent shipment of tourniquets — donated by generous Westporters and others — has arrived overseas.

Unfortunately, they’re desperately needed.

Tourniquets in Ukraine. (Photo courtesy of Steve Taranko)

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Bob Knoebel — longtime Westport YMCA aquatics director and Water Rats coach — now lives in Idaho. The other day, he traveled east and visited with his own Staples High School swim coach from 51 years ago, Bruce Gardiner.

Bruce is retired, after a long career as director of admissions at Lehigh University. Bob posted a photo on Facebook, adding: “Thanking you properly for being a fantastic coach, and apologizing for the awkward, tongue-tied thank you I delivered at the banquet as team captain in 1971.”

Bob Knoebel (left) and Bruce Gardiner, at Lehigh University.

Bob also sends along an update on his godson Enrique, profiled 4 years ago on “06880”:

He’s graduating from Bates College in May with a double major in economics and Latin American studies, and landed a job at First Republic Bank in San Francisco.

In the Small World Department: He worked remotely from campus this year for native Westporters and Water Rats David and Danny Platow who are at a New York branch of First Republic.

Bob had nothing to do with it, though. Enrique was linked to them by his boss, after interning for her last summer in San Francisco.

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Staples just wrapped up a very successful World Language Week.

Each day began with music related to the Language of the Day — Spanish, French, German, Italian, Latin and Mandarin. Morning announcements (including the Pledge of Allegiance) were made by students, in the language of the day.

Language clubs raised awareness — and funds for less fortunate youngsters in other countries.

The Italian Club, for example, collected $400 for at-risk youths in Napoli. The club  also offered Italian pins, bracelets, lanyards and Italian goodie bags. Grazie! (Hat tip: Bruno Guiduli)

Italian Club members outside the Staples cafeteria, with goodies (from left): Luca Caniato, Bruno Guiduli, David Sedrak, Amanda Rowan, Maisy Weber, Caroline Motyl.

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In September, the Westport Unitarian Church high school youth group embarked on an intensive environmental initiative. The goal was to become more mindful of how everyday decisions profoundly affect the Earth.

That effort culminates next month in a trip to Alaska, to see the effects of climate change close up. Members hope to return both nourished by nature, and awakened to the realization that we live on an amazing planet that we often take for granted.

To help fund their trip, the youth group presents an “Afternoon of Music and Laughter.” It’s this Sunday (March 27, 2 p.m., both in-person at the Unitarian Church and via Zoom). The program includes vocal music, classical piano and guitar, comedy routines and more.

Tickets are $25 each. They’re available at the door, and online (click here).

Unitarian Church high school youth group.

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Thomas Howard, a well-respected economist, lifelong adventurer and Westport resident, died last week while mountaineering in the Adirondacks.  He was 63.

His family says, “Many will remember him for his deep morality, thoughtfulness, loving nature, intellectual capacity, generosity, and playful sense of humor.”

He was born in 1958 in Richmond, Virginia. At both the Highgate School in London and Hopkins School in New Haven he was an avid track and cross country runner, at one point setting the 10K record in Britain for his age group.

At Dartmouth College he studied math under John Kemeny. and became his teaching assistant. He completed an honors thesis exploring the equations and logic required to teach computers to talk. He earned a doctorate in economics from Yale University, where he expanded on an interest in econometrics and completed a dissertation on employment uncertainty under advisor Robert Shiller.

During his 40-plus year career Tom worked as a computer programmer for the Pentagon, a macroeconomist for Fuji Bank, and a consultant for Arthur D. Little and PIRA Energy. He was skilled in forecasting, econometrics, data analysis, and formulating options trading strategies. Other employers included Louis Dreyfus, Statoil and, most recently, the Department of Defense.

Tom was an accomplished mountaineer and hiker. He spent over 40 years climbing some of the most challenging mountains on the globe: ascending Mt. McKinley, Mt. Huascaran in Peru and Xixabangma Peak in the Himalayas, to name a few. He hiked the 273-mile Long Trail in Vermont and the entirety of the 2,000-mile Appalachian Trail, from Maine to Georgia. In October 2021 he crossed the entire White Mountain Presidential Range in one day. Tom aspired to climb the second-highest mountain on all 7 continents. Hw finished the first part of this journey when he scaled Mt. Kenya in the fall of 2021.

Tom is survived by his wife, Zhu Zhang Howard (Julie), and daughters Gwendolyn and Madison Howard. He met Julie while working in New York; they married in 1993, and moved to Westport in 1997. He is also survived by his siblings Margaret Paar of Niantic; James Elbert of Wallingford; Amy Howard Chase of New Rochelle, New York; Mary Howard of Branford; Martha Howard of Guilford, and Emily Howard of Washington, DC, plus many nieces and nephews.

Visitation hours at the Courtyard Marriott, 474 Main Street, Norwalk will be tomorrow (Friday, March 25, 5-8 p.m.). A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, (March 26, 11 a.m., St. Luke Church), and can be viewed via livestream. A reception will follow to celebrate his life. Masks are recommended.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in the name of Tom Howard to Search and Rescue of the Northern Adirondacks, benefitting search and rescue efforts in the Northern Adirondacks, or St, Luke Church.

Thomas Howard

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Today is pretty gray. Two days ago, dogs romped on Compo — as our “Westport … Naturally” feature shows. Their time is limited though. On April 1, they’re banned from the beach for 6 months.

(Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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And finally … in honor of Staples High’s World Language Week (story above), and the fundraising work of the school’s Italian Club, here’s a song everyone loves:

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Posted in Environment, Obituaries, Real estate, Restaurants, Sports, YMCA

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Home For Sale: $13.5 Million. 4 BRs. 5 Baths. No Parking.

Posted on March 16, 2022 | 18 comments

The most expensive property in Westport does not come with an attached garage.

In fact, parking is so far away it takes a hand cart to haul your groceries, luggage — and everything else — home.

You cross 2 bridges, open a gate, and walk down a narrow path. It’s different than most Westport homes. But the people who do it say that the walk — to Compo Cove, past Sherwood Mill Pond — makes them feel like they’re in Nantucket.

Or some place even more special.

That house can be yours. If you have $13.5 million.

50 Compo Cove

The amenities — including an infinity pool with spectacular Italian marble mosaic tiles, the highest-end appliances, and much more — are amazing. The views of Long Island Sound, the Mill Pond, wildlife and nature — are astonishing.

The infinity pool …

But still … it’s $13.5 million. It takes a special person to sell a special house like that.

… and one of the bathrooms.

Sarah Stone has the listing. A broker with Douglas Elliman in Greenwich, she is used to dealing with luxury properties. Around here, that’s around $3 million and up.

Which makes #50 Compo Cove ultra-luxury.

Properties like these stay on the market much longer than your basic $2 million home, which these days can ignite a bidding war and be snapped up before the open house ends.

The marketing is different too. A realtor selling a home like this aims far beyond traditional buyers. For Compo Cove, Elliman’s Knight Frank affiliate has reached out to wealthy buyers across Europe, in Dubai — even (though perhaps this is a tougher sell since February 24) Russian oligarchs.

Sarah Stone in the bar.

Those are the types of people, Stone notes, who have more than one home. Compo Cove may be a residence, but it’s not the only one. Catastrophes like hurricanes and floods that render a home unlivable for months may be minor inconveniences if there are several other places to live.

Compo Cove entrance.

I’m sure those other places are spectacular too.

But I can’t imagine any of them come with their own wooden bridges and walking path.

Office with a view.

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Posted in Beach, Real estate

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Nile Rodgers Leaving The Westport Family

Posted on March 14, 2022 | 2 comments

Nile Rodgers has been a good Westport neighbor.

The Chic front man/3-time Grammy Award-winning/Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee/ “We Are Family” songwriter-producer has played at the Levitt Pavilion, helped out the Library, and contributed to the Saugatuck Shores vibe.

But he’s joining Ashford & Simpson, Neil Sedaka and Johnny Winter — among others — on the list of former Westport music royalty.

His Bermuda Lagoon home is on the market for $5.25 million. The price does not include his recording studio.

Nile Rodgers’ house. (Photo/Stephanie Loda for Greenwich Photography)

The Wall Street Journal reports:

The roughly half-acre property has about 90 feet of waterfront on the Bermuda Lagoon off Long Island Sound, Mr. Rodgers said. He bought the house in 1980 for $269,000, he said, because it offered a dock that he could use for boating.

Nile Rodgers’ house features water views from everywhere. (Photo/Stephanie Loda for Greenwich Photography)

Built in 1953, the house has an indoor pool, a library, a dining room and a great room with vaulted ceilings and a fireplace…

The recording studio, where Mr. Rodgers said he has hosted artists including Diana Ross, Slash, Blondie and Mick Jagger, has an outdoor terrace overlooking the lagoon. The studio, which was once an additional bedroom, is outfitted with audio equipment and a vocal recording booth, which isn’t included in the sale. It also has a Sub-Zero refrigerator and wet bar….

Nile Rodgers will be taking his gold and platinum records with him. (Photo/Stephanie Loda for Greenwich Photography)

He said he is selling the property because he plans to spend more time at his home in Turks and Caicos; he also has homes in New York City and Florida. He said he plans to donate proceeds from the sale of the house to his “We Are Family” foundation, which promotes cultural diversity and mentors youth.

Click here for the full story (and some awesome photos). (Hat tip: Jeff Jacobs)

Nile Rodgers (Photo courtesy of Daily Mail)

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Posted in Entertainment, Real estate

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