Everyone knows that traffic — including the Merritt Parkway — is worse than ever.
We’d give anything to go back to the good ol’ days, when traffic flowed like …
… well, anyway.
The photo above (courtesy of Anthony Dohanos) shows what happened after a washout collapsed an entire section of the southbound pavement. The Merritt was closed between Westport and Darien, with delays of up to 8 hours.
Okay. That was unusual. This is more like what we dream of:
Several readers would love to come to Thursday night’s “06880” party. But they don’t have beach stickers.
As much as they like a good time, they’ve decided it’s not worth the daily parking fee. Can’t say I blame ’em.
Uber is one alternative. Here’s another:
I’ll do my best to connect riders and drivers — privately, of course. No guarantees.
But it’s just one more way in which “06880” is “where Westport meets the world.”
One way to get to the “06880” blog party. There are others.
Lots of cars look alike these days. Lots of them don’t even need keys to start. And lots of us have lots of things on our minds.
That can be a dangerous combination, as Evan Stein learned this weekend.
Here’s his car theft story — with a part-O. Henry, part-Westport twist.
I went to the beach on Saturday. Put on sunblock, had a nap and listened to podcasts. My wife Jenny went for a walk.
Evan Stein took this selfie Saturday at Compo Beach.
At 2:45 my alarm went off. I packed up our stuff and put it in the back seat of my parents’ car, which I borrowed because I don’t have a beach sticker this year.
When the stuff was in the car, Jen got back from her walk. We did a lap around the marina, and walked back to our car.
We headed across town to my parents’ house, about 10 minutes away. As we pulled into the driveway, I reached up to open the garage door buttons.
The buttons weren’t there.
I puzzled over this for a moment, then said to Jen, “I think this might not be our car.”
She said, “Of course it isn’t. We borrowed your parents’ car.”
I said, “No. I mean, I don’t think this is their car!”
I had driven to the beach in a Toyota SUV. I now drove an Infiniti SUV.
Evan Stein sent along this approximation of the 2 SUVs.
It was the same color. Same basic shape. But there had been clues. There were more cameras as we backed out of the space at the beach. There was a map on the screen as we drove home. There were 2 beach stickers. My father does not leave extra stickers on the windshield.
And as we looked around, we saw children’s seats in the back. Thank G-D there were no sleeping kids!
Then there was a purse by Jen’s feet. It was not her purse.
The culprit.
Presumably, there was a key fob in the purse. How else could the car have started?
I pulled into the driveway. I told my parents we were home. But I said we had to go back to the beach. We had taken someone else’s car.
My dad followed us to Compo. When we arrived, the couple whose car we had taken were talking to the Westport Police.
I pulled into a spot by the showers. I got out and apologized for taking the car.
The officer took my name and phone number. He seemed more focused on reminding the couple to not leave their keys in the car.
My father and I walked back to his car. I drove us home.
“Grand Theft Auto” challenge unlocked. Fortunately, without an arrest.
The morals of the story: Don’t leave your key fob in your car. And pay attention!
Posted in Beach, Police, Transportation, Westport life
Tagged auto theft, Compo Beach, Evan Stein, key fob
Saugatuck train station (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
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Chipotle didn’t make it. Neither did Qdoba.
But Salsa Fresca is betting the 3rd time’s the charm.
The idea is the same: build your own Mexican meal — burrito, bowl, taco, salad, nachos, quesadilla — from a list of items.
Salsa Fresca is a lot smaller than either of the 2 chains that preceded it. They had hundreds. This will be just the 9th Salsa Fresca in New York and Connecticut. The closest locations now are Danbury and Bedford Hills.
They’ll open in the exact same spot — at the foot of Playhouse Square, underneath Kennedy’s Barber Shop — that Qdoba vacated more than 3 years ago.
So I’ll say this about Salsa Fresca: They’ve got some big cojones.
(Photo/Dan Woog)
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The Westport Library Café is — like so much else — reopening up more and more.
Hours are now 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.
Come for the treats. Stay for the views!
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Hey — it was a great idea while it lasted.
With no 4th of July fireworks yesterday, “06880” reader Jennifer McCarthy floated the idea of rescheduling the pyrotechnics — this year only — to Labor Day.
Looks like a washout, though (just like Friday night’s would have been). Westport PAL — longtime sponsor of the annual event — says that town officials nixed the concept a while ago, not wanting to risk being a super-spreader.
In addition, staffing would be tough. Many seasonal employees will already be back in college.
See you at Compo in early July, 2022!
Fears of another super-spreader event mean no fireworks until next year. (Photo/Rick Benson)
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The Gillespie Center food pantry is out of essentials.
Items needed include canned meats (chicken, tuna, salmon, Spam), pasta sauces, jams and jellies, hot and cold cereals, canned fruits and vegetables,, and paper and reusable bags.
They can be dropped off at the Gillespie Center courtyard (behind Don Memo restaurant) today, tomorrow and Wednesday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Yesterday, America celebrated its 245th birthday.
But anyone wandering by the Dunkin’ Donuts parking lot across from the Southport Diner yesterday — just over the town line — might have thought it was our 145th.
(Photo/Bob Weingarten)
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows delicious raspberries, ready to ripen at Baron’s South. Yum!
(Photo/Molly Alger)
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And finally … on this day in 1954, Elvis Presley recorded his first single, “That’s All Right,” at Sun Records in Memphis. The world was never the same.
Rainy train, last night (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #1537
Posted in Pic of the Day, Transportation, Weather
Tagged Metro-North Westport station
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Many religious organizations take deserved summer breaks.
The Conservative Synagogue is launching a big Tikkun Olam (Repairing the World) project. Their goal is to supply over 100 backpacks, fully stocked with school supplies, to local children in for the start of the school year this coming fall.
The first phase — during July — involves fundraising. Then come packing the backpacks, and delivering. For more information, click here.
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Westporters of a certain age remember fondly their introduction to the Westport Country Playhouse.
Now young Westporters of a certain age — grades kindergarten through 3 — return to the storied theater. “Story Hour with Jenny” — a live, in-person series — presents an interactive reading of the picture book “Wings” on Sunday, July 11 (11 a.m.). It’s about a boy whose appearance makes him the target of bullies.
“Story Hour with Jenny” is a series of readings of social justice picture books written and illustrated by BIPOC artists. Themes center on the 4 pillars of the Playhouse’s education department: empathy, collaboration, activism and literacy.
To register, click here, call 203-227-4177, or email boxoffice@westportplayhouse.org.
Jenny Nelson, Westport Country Playhouse director of education and community engagement.
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Westport Rotary Club has a new president.
Lyla Steenburgen took over from Leslie Roberts at the annual Pass-the-Gavel Lobster Bake, at the Ned Dimes Marina.
“During the pandemic, a lot has been written about happiness and how to find fulfilment in life,” said Lyla, gift advancement officer at Bridgeport Hospital Foundation/Yale New Haven Health.
“Experts all say that it comes from connecting, belonging, being a part of something bigger than yourself, and engaging with and helping others – that’s Rotary. Rotary gives us the opportunity to render some service to the world in return for living in it. We are healthier and better citizens because of it.”
Leslie Roberts (left) hands the gavel to new Rotary Club president Lyla Steenbergen.
The Sunrise Rotary also changed presidents, at the same site. George Masumian will be replaced by Rick Jaffe. Mark Mathias sent along this drone video of the event:
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“06880” has posted plenty of “entitled parking” photos — many of them at Fresh Market.
This driver took up 6 spots (!) yesterday. But big props. If you’re going to park a vehicle that size, this is the way to do it.
(Photo/Seth Schachter)
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows droppings collected by Jay Dirnberger. They’re from a kousa dogwood tree.
(Photo/Molly Alger)
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And finally … today in 1846, Adolphe Sax patented the saxophone.
(Two questions on the Doors’ song: Why did Robbie Kreiger have an amazing black eye? And did Jim Morrison actually forget his cue, midway through?)
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Some things are worth waiting for.
For Gwen Goldman McLoughlin — the Westporter who waited 60 years to be a New York Yankees bat girl — last night was a long-deferred dream come true.
The festivities began even before the game. Tina Cervasio, Channel 5 sportscaster, tweeted this photo of a delighted Gwen, ready to play ball. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)
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After a 5-hour delay Sunday night — caused by 111-degree heat in Eugene, Oregon — Henry Wynne battled for a spot on the US Olympic track and field team.
The Staples High School Class of 2013 graduate had to finish 3rd in the 1500-meter finals.
Running outside for much of the race, he surged to a 3:37.70 finish. But that was good only for 5th.
Since 2016, Wynne — one of the greatest runners in Connecticut history — has s suffered a knee injury, pneumonia, and surgery on his small intestine. He’s persevered through it all — and COVID — yet came up just short Sunday night.
Henry Wynne, in an indoor race for Staples High. (Photo courtesy of MSG Varsity)
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Tomorrow (Wednesday, June 30, 7 p.m., Westport Library), Silver Hill Hospital’s president and medical director Dr. Andrew Gerber and other experts will present a workshop to help parents learn how to talk with and support children as they try to understand tragedies.
The program is a joint effort of Westport’s Department of Human Services, the Westport Public Schools, Westport Together, and the Westport Prevention Coalition, in partnership with the Library. Click here to register to attend in person. Click here for the livestream link.
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Connecticut’s Superior Court holds remote hearings o 2 proposed settlements, between Westport’s Planning & Zoning Commission and developers. These could be the final steps on the road toward construction.
The 157-unit Hiawatha Lane settlement will be discussed on July 19 (10:30 a.m.). The 68-unit Lincoln Street settlement is set for the same day, at 2:30 p.m.
Anyone interested in listening to or participating in the hearing should email abby.bowker@jud.ct.gov, or call 860-548-2851 for instructions.
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Wondering about electrical vehicle incentives and free charging opportunities?
The EV Club of Connecticut has the answers. They’ll provide them during a free virtual webinar: (July 27, 7 p.m.).
The program is co-sponsored by the Town of Westport, and Sustainable Westport. Click here to register, and for more information.
Electric vehicles lined up by the Staples charging stations (from left): Chevy Bolt, Tesla S, VW, Tesla X, Nissan Leafes,
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is black-and-white — in color:
(Photo/Jamie Walsh)
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And finally … today in 2007, Apple released its first iPhone. The world has never been the same.
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Westport has taken a big step toward adding more bus shelters.
Last night the Planning & Zoning Commission voted 5-0, with 1 abstention, on a text amendment. It adopts a definition for “bus shelters,” and exempts them from being considered a “structure.” That removes many obstacles from where they can be located.
Transportation and employment advocates have pushed for more bus shelters for years. Before last night bus shelters were deemed to be structures, and could not be located within the 30-foot setback along roads.
Thus, except for one shelter near Stop & Shop, bus riders on the Post Road must stand in all kinds of weather, on sidewalks or even the roadway.
Approval for new bus shelter locations will be made by the director of Public Works, in consultation with the Police and Fire Departments.
Among the people working for years for this change are members of the ad hoc Bus Shelter Working Group (Pippa Bell Ader, Harold Bailey, Ross Burkhardt, Ron Corwin, Jennifer Johnson, Melissa Kane and Larry Weisman), plus Peter Boyd of Sustainable Westport, and Planning & Zoning director Mary Young.
Click here for full details of the text amendment.
Waiting for the bus. (Photos courtesy of Planning & Zoning Commission Bus Shelter Working Group)
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Earlier this month, “06880” reported on a proposal to build a cell tower on private property at 92 Greens Farms Road.
An information session is set for Monday (June 28, 5:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium
To provide written comments before the session, email selectman@westportct.gov.
A cell tower been proposed for the property on the left: 92 Greens Farms Road. (Photo courtesy of Google Maps)
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Though the Westport Country Playhouse will not host any live productions this summer, the famed theater is opening up for special events.
They include cabaret performances tomorrow (Saturday, June 26, 8 p.m., with Tonya Pinkins and Brad Simmons, and another cabaret July 24); an in-person screening of the virtual production “Tiny House” (Tuesday, June 29), and more. (Click here for details.)
Playhouse managing director Michael Barker filmed a “welcome back” video. Click below to enjoy.
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Longtime Westporter Herman Smith died June 17. He was 84
Herman lived in The Villages, Florida for nearly 20 years, but called Westport and Danbury home. He was the second of 4 generations of Westport residents, following his father who started a business in the 1940s.
Herman was educated in the Westport school system, from kindergarten through his graduation from Staples High School in 1955. He then attended the Engineering Institute of Bridgeport. He was also honorably discharged from the United States Air Force, and served in the National Guard.
Herman was in management at United Parcel Services, working in the South New England District for over 30 years. He retired in 1995.
Herman Smith
Herman was an original member of the Gents, and a long time member of the African American Club at The Villages. He enjoyed his time with the Frogs and Flakes, and the ROMEOs with his neighbors on Lawson Loop.
He was also a collector of baseball hats, an avid golfer and a world traveler. He and his wife Mary Fran traveled to over 25 countries, and visited all 7 continents.
His favorite spots and activities included his gardens in Westport, boating on Candlewood Lake, golfing at the Villages, watching the ocean at Daytona Beach Shores and making memories at Disney with his family.
He was predeceased by his parents, John Herman and Jane Smith, and sister, Jane “Patsy” Smith. Herman is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Mary Frances; children Mark of The Villages, Florida; Susan of New Haven, and Scott (Jane) of Westport, CT), and grandchildren Brandon, Jacob and Joshua.
Herman’s family will celebrate his legacy by establishing a scholarship in his name to advance the education and talents of promising youth. In lieu of flowers, they ask for contributions to that scholarship once it is established. Donations may also be made to another charity that fittingly honors Herman’s kind spirit, generous soul and full life.
A memorial service is planned for July 10 (11 a.m., Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, The Villages, Florida). A celebration of Herman’s life will also be held in Connecticut in September.
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Last night’s Strawberry Moon was marred by a few clouds. But Daniel Johnson was one of many Westporters who gathered at Compo Beach. He captured this great shot:
(Photo/Daniel Johnson)
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Today in “Westport … Naturally”: Miggs Burroughs spotted this white deer in his Old Hill backyard. It (or a relative) has appeared once a year, for the past several years. Miggs writes:
“According to Native American legend, the appearance of an all-white deer signifies an abundant harvest. I must say, I have more weeds this year than ever.”
(Photo/Miggs Burroughs)
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And finally … in honor of the Planning & Zoning Commission’s vote last night that will lead to more (much-needed) bus shelters in Westport:
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Did you miss this morning’s partial eclipse of the sun?
Franco Fellah didn’t. Here’s what the amateur astronomer saw:
(Photo/Franco Fellah)
A wider view, courtesy of Jay Walshon:
(Photo/Jay Walshon)
Meanwhile, WCBS-TV’s lead weather anchor — and Westporter — Lonnie Quinn set up for his remote shot at Compo Beach. He had a short commute to work today.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
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Last year — as students graduated, sad and largely uncelebrated during the pandemic — Aarti Khosla decided to help.
The owner of Le Rouge Handmade Chocolates decided to give a chocolate heart to every graduate in the Bridgeport school system.
Thanks to her customers, she did.
This year, graduations are a bit more normal. But — now a new “tradition” — the gifts continue.
There are 1,081 graduates in the Bridgeport district. So far, 275 have been “sponsored” by Le Rouge clients. Over 800 are still needed — by Tuesday.
It’s easy. For just $8 — “the cost of a coffee and croisssant,” Aarti says — anyone can sponsor a chocolate heart. Click here to help.
Speaking of $8 — last year, Aarti notes, “the smiles on graduates’ faces were priceless.”
“Give a Little Love” with chocolate hearts.
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Congratulations to Westport’s newest Emmy winner!
Michael Carey — part of NBC Sports’ Sunday Night Football team — was part of the crew awarded the prestigious prize for “Outstanding Live Sports Series.”
Carey — a segment producer — is a 2001 Staples High School graduate. He captained the ’00 boys soccer team.
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Amazon may or may not be taking over the world.
But the shopping behemoth is taking over Avi Kaner’s parking spots.
Every morning at 8:30, the former Westport 2nd selectman/Board of Finance chair — and, more importantly for this story, an owner of the 16-store Morton Williams grocery store chain in New York — sees trucks part in front of 2 of his Upper East Side markets.
Workers appear. For the next 5 hours, Crains’ New York Business reports, they use hand trucks to deliver groceries to residents who ordered from Amazon online.
“They use it like a warehouse,” Kaner says. “The city is allowing these places to block our business.”
An Amazon spokeswoman described the scene as an “exchange point.”
Kaner notes that Morton Williams’ sales in residential areas are down only 5-15% from pre-COVID levels, but that stores in business districts are still doing just half of their previous numbers. (Click here for the full Crains’ story.)
Avi Kaner in a Morton Williams store. (Photo/Danny Ghitis for the New York Times)
Next up at the Remarkable Theater: “Guardians of the Galaxy.”
The superhero film shows tomorrow (Friday, June 11, 8:30 p.m.; gates open for tailgating at 7:30). Click here for tickets and more information.
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The Westport PAL car show set for June 20 has been postponed to July 17. It’s still 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; still at the railroad station parking lot near Railroad Place and Franklin Street); it still features cool cars, food and raffle prizes.
Tickets are still $15 each. But kids — that is, anyone under 12 — are still free.
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Naturally, “Westport … Naturally” shows a deer or two, every once a while. This pair was too cool for school.
(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)
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And finally … today, people across the Northern Hemisphere can watch an annular (partial eclipse) of the sun. Because no one has recorded a song by that name, this will have to do.
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