Category Archives: Weston

Roundup: Madden, Narcan, Veggies …

Posted on April 4, 2025 | 2 comments

Here’s a high five to Coleytown Middle School student Madden Orlovsky.

On Wednesday he celebrated World Autism Day by covering the ESPN studio with his artwork.

Madden Orlovsky and his dad at ESPN, with Madden’s artwork.

It was a truly special day — for Madden, his father Dan (a noted ESPN personality), Dan’s studio colleagues, and tens of millions of viewers and social media followers.

Click here for a great Twitter/X post. Former Westporter Mike Greenberg called it “the best show ever.”

Screenshot of Madden Orlovsky, his father Dan, and the ESPN crew.

The network’s 28 million Instagram followers loved Madden too. Click here or below.

Finally, click here to watch Dan talk about the day with Pat McAfee. (Hat tips: Dave Briggs, Beth Cody, Jeff Mitchell)

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Save a Life Day is Wednesday (April 9).

In Westport, that’s more than a proclamation.

At 7 p.m. (Town Hall), Aspetuck Health District and Positive Directions invites residents to learn how to recognize an opioid overdose, and how to use Narcan to save a life.

An important related event is National Drug Take-Back Day (April 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

In addition, Westport and Weston Police Departments have medication disposal safety boxes in their lobbies. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for safe disposal of prescription drugs.

And in recognition of Alcohol Awareness Month, on Monday (April 7, 7 p.m., Zoom), the Westport Prevention Coalition hosts a virtual community discussion: “Exploring Westport’s Relationship with Alcohol.”

Panelists will share perspectives as a parent, person in recovery, mental health counselor, substance counselor, LGBTQ community member and teen. Click here to register.

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Wakeman Town Farm and Sustainable Westport honor Earth Day together.

Their April 26 “Spring Garden Fest” event includes a workshop on growing  dahlias, a talk about sustainable garden practices and choosing the best pollinator plants for your garden, a demonstration of battery-charged garden tools, and a free native “seed bomb” from Terrain. Click here for details.

Meanwhile, do you love vegetables? Want to plan a garden? But have no clue how to begin?

If you can wait till May 5 (7 p.m.), check out Wakeman Town Farm’s “Wild About Veggies” workshop. Click here for more information, and to register.

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The 4th annual Verso Fest — 4 days of music, workshops and more — kicked off last night.

Patti Smith sat down with former CNN anchor Alisyn Camerota for an in-depth, wide-ranging conversation.

Tonight, the Wallflowers headline an 8:30 p.m. show. Click here for details and tickets. Click here for the full VersoFest lineup.

Patti Smith (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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The Planning & Zoning Commission meets this Thursday (April 10, 6 p.m., Town Hall Rooms 201/201A).

There is 1 agenda item: “Discussion of the proposed Long Lots Elementary School submitted by the Long Lots School Building Committee to receive feedback on site design at 13 Hyde Lane.”

The public may observe, but not participate. Written public comments prior to the meeting will be accepted. Click here for the “Contact” page on the town website.

A very preliminary drawing of the new Long Lots Elementary School was shown at the “State of the Town” meeting this winter.

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ADL Connecticut, Temple Israel, TCS, Chabad of Westport, the Fairfield Jewish Advocacy Coalition, the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County and Beth El Norwalk are joining together to sponsor please join us for a screening of the documentary “October 8.”

The April 17 event (6:30 p.m., Westport Library) will be followed by a talkback and Q-and-A with the production team.

The documentary explores the explosion of antisemitism on college campuses, social media, and America streets beginning the day after the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas.

The film also “uncovers how, over decades, Hamas created sophisticated networks in America to permeate US institutions and examines the tsunami of online antisemitism, propaganda and disinformation unleashed by Iran, China and Russia — with the sole purpose of dividing American society.”

Click here for more information, and to register.

There are also 2 screenings at the AMC Royale in Norwalk, on April 8 (6:30 and 7:30 p.m.). Click here for details.

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The curtain rises tonight on the Coleytown Company production of “Matilda The Musical.” A few seats remain for this weekend’s 4 performances of the Roald Dahl-inspired show.

Coleytown Company promises “colorful characters, rousing songs, and an inspiring storyline.” The show will entertain audiences of all ages — especially elementary school, with its “relatable and magical” story.

Shows tonight (Friday, 7 p.m.), tomorrow (Saturday, 1 and 7 p.m.), and Sunday (1 p.m.). Click here for tickets.

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Looking for a Seder?

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport hosts a multi-generational Passover Seder potluck on April 19 (5:30 p.m.).

Passover honors the Israelites’ freedom from slavery in Egypt. At a Seder, families, friends and strangers remember the Exodus through stories, music and ritual foods.

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation evokes the spirit of many different religions, and celebrates various traditions. Everyone, of all ages, is invited to this Seder. The only requirement is to pre-register, by clicking here.

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Last Sunday’s Westport Swim Club meet at Staples High School drew 50 swimmers, and over spectators.

It was a fun, productive event — complete with cowbells and pizza — for youngsters who had been working on their strokes, with old friends and new ones.

Click here to learn more about the Westport Swim Club.

Westport Swim Club youngsters and coaches.

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How do you move an asteroid?

If anyone knows, it’s Nancy Chabot.

On April 15 (8 p.m.; Zoom and YouTube), the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory’s planetary chief scientist tells the Westport Astronomical Society about the Double Asteroid Redirection Test: the first mission to move an asteroid.

Get ready to rock.

Dr. Nancy Chabot, framed by an asteroid.

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The Staples High School team of Alexia Damian and Sophie Jacques recently placed first in the Connecticut Debate Association’s state finals (novice division).

Coach John Bengston’s sophomore squad won all 4 rounds, in the 40-team event. their coach.

Please find attached a photo (photo by Lucy Basso ’27) of the team from left: Debate Coach and Social Studies Teacher John Bengston, Alexia Damian ’27 and Sophie Jacques ’27

Staples debate team coach John Bengston, with Alexia Damian and Sophie Jacques.

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Congratulations too to Bruce Matos!

The Weston High School junior recently led a drive that distributed over 12,000 pounds of food to more than 1,300 underserved residents in Florida.

He rallied his peers to join the effort. Click here for his inspiring blog post.

The project was part of Joshua’s Heart Foundation, which fights food insecurity.. Bruce serves on the junior advisory board, and leads the partners and sponsors team.

Bruce is also an Eagle Scout with Troop 788 in Weston, a member of the National Honor Society, a Congressional Award gold nedalist, and a 4-time recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

He also serves as presidenet of WHS’ HOSA Club, secretary general of Model UN, and vice president of the American Heroes Club. And … Bruce is also a black belt in kung fu.

Bruce Matos, helping fight food insecurity.

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Speaking of Weston: The town’sCommission for the Arts and Friends of the Weston Library invite artists to submit up to 3 works. They’ll be considered for the Weston Connections Art Exhibit, set for the Library in July.

Artists (age 14 or older) must have a “connection” to Weston — a local subject matter, current or former resident, or work or volunteer there. Click here for details.

Weston Library

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Every year, “06880” runs photos of American oystercatchers at Compo Beach.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows one at Burying Hill Beach.

It’s a beauty.

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

Photographer Lou Weinberg says: “Whenever I see these beautiful birds, it gives me hope the environment still has some sustaining power. Nature wins!

“The American oystercatcher subsists primarily on shellfish. They live in a narrow ecological zone consisting of salt marshes and barrier beaches.

“According to the American Oystercatcher Working Group, threats to these native coastal birds include direct loss of habitat from coastal development and expanding human recreational activity, elevated predation from predator populations augmented by human activities, loss of primary food sources by: pollution, decline in water quality, restricted groundwater flow, disease, invasive exotic marine organisms, and (of course) effects of global climate change, particularly sea level rise eliminating small isolated islands used for nesting and roosting.”

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And finally … in honor of Coleytown Company’s big show this weekend (story above):

(Did you have a good week? Did you learn anything from “06880”? If so, please consider clicking here to support our work. We could not do all this stuff without you. Thanks for your help!)

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Posted in Education, Environment, religion, Weston

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Podcast: Weston 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor

Posted on March 24, 2025 | 4 comments

Today, “06880: The Podcast” becomes “06883.”

Sam Nestor — Weston’s 1st selectwoman — made the long drive south, to the Westport Library’s Verso Studios stage, to talk all about her town.

From sidewalks to schools, and her career path to the future, everyone in Weston and far beyond will enjoy this inside look into our neighbor to the north.

4 Comments

Posted in Library, Media, Weston

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Roundup: Susie’s House, A Better Chance, Playground Volunteers …

Posted on March 15, 2025 | 2 comments

After months of renovations, Susie’s House reopens April 1.

The 124 Compo Road North residence is run by Homes with Hope. Named for former director Susie Basler, it provides stable, affordable living for 6 young women ages 18 to 26 who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness.

At Susie’s House they’ll get back on their feet through education and employment, eventually moving on to independent living. Each woman will have a mentor, community support and case management.

Community members are invited to a pre-opening tour next Saturday (March 22, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.). To RSVP, email events@hwhct.org.

Susie’s House

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For nearly 25 years, A Better Chance of Westport has provided education, a home, mentors, and opportunities for a powerful future to smart, self-motivated, creative and very cool young men of color, from around the country.

It’s one of our town’s best non-profits. Hundreds of Westporters have volunteered, in a variety of important roles. And they’ve gotten as much from the ABC scholars as they’ve given.

The “Dream Event” is A Better Chance’s annual fundraising gala. Along with the food, drinks and auction items, there’s something more: inspiring speeches, from the current scholars, and those who have graduated and gone on to great success.

This year’s event is April 26 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library). Click here for tickets, and more information.

Then-current and past A Better Chance scholars, at a previous Dream Event.

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The renovation of the Compo Beach playground is just a few weeks away.

Just like during its construction in 1989, and first renovation in 2006, it’s a community project.

Whether you’re a parent whose kids use it, or used to when they were younger — or even if you have no kids’ connection to this great Westport attraction — organizers are looking for volunteers to help.

Professional builders, skilled volunteers, unskilled hands — all are welcome to sign up for slots.

All volunteers will receive a playground t-shirt! Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be served by community vendors.

There’s a “KidZone” on site for children (potty-trained, please!). 12- and 13-year- olds can help out there.

14-17-year-olds are welcome on the build site. They cannot handle tools, but there are many other ways to help.

Click here to snag a spot, and to learn more.

In 1989, scores of volunteers helped build the playground.

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Yesterday’s Roundup gave a shout-out to Thursday’s Westport Book Shop gala.

Since 2021, the Jesup Green store has provided jobs, training, and a great place in the community to people with disabilities.

One highlight of the Westport Library event was a short video. The stars are employees themselves.

They describe the confidence and joy they get out of serving customers, learning new skills, and earning a paycheck.

As the video notes, Westport Book Shop is a place where “people’s stories shine” — in countless ways.

Click below (or click here), to enjoy this powerful video, produced by Westport’s own The Visual Brand:

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I would not have thought there’s a lot of litter in the neighborhood around Greens Farms Road, Maple Avenue South and Clapboard Hill Road.

Then again, I don’t live there.

Dan and Nicole Donovan do.

Every few months, they take a walk with a garbage bag.

A large one.

Yesterday, their 1-mile walk yielded 10 pounds of trash.

Ten pounds!

Dan Donovan, with his Greens Farms neighborhood trash.

The most common item by far, Dan says, was alcohol bottles, with the little nips.

Thanks, Dan and Nicole, for picking up after so many inconsiderate folks.

It’s a good thing you don’t live near Compo Beach!

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Earthplace’s 4th annual Beer Garden (April 26, 4 p.m.) has something for everyone — of all ages.

Adults enjoy a self-guided trail walk with craft beer tastings, while kids sample sparkling drinks, and participate in arts and crafts.

The beer garden includes food trucks, s’mores, lawn games, and a selection of full-size beers available for separate purchase. Click here for tickets, and more information.

S’mores at the Beer Garden.

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Weston Field Club has reopened.

The private club closed in November, after “financial irregularities” caused what the board president called an “existential crisis.”

With a new general manager, there’s an open house today (Saturday, 1 to 3 p.m., 38 Ladder Hill Road South, Weston). They’ll show off their facilities, and describe their programs like aquatics, racquet sports, trap shooting and camps.

Weston Field Club is also offering summer trial memberships, for $3,000 and $5,000. Click here for the website. Click here for more details, from Weston Today.

(Photo courtesy of Weston Today)

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Compo Beach is once again getting ready for prime time.

Crews are  redistributing and smoothing sand, in preparation for the can’t-come-soon-enough great weather.

This was the scene a couple of days ago, at South Beach:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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The Aspetuck Land Trust is ready for an active spring, both live and online.

Lunch & Learn: “Assisted Plant Migration Helps to Expand Our Native Plant Palette for Climate Change” (March 28, 12 noon, Zoom webinar). How can we help plant species move north as temperatures rise? Explore the role humans play in helping move plants, as well as helping animals move more freely to aid in seed dispersal.

Plant Sale (Opens for Members April 4). ALT’s spring and fall native plant sales feature hard-to-find native plants, trees, shrubs and perennials. Plants are ordered online, and picked on weekends at the Caryl & Edna Haskins Preserve. Click here to join or renew membership.

Vernal Pool Walk with Edward Pawlak (April 12, 10 a.m., Trout Brook Valley Jump Hill Preserve; click here to register).

Earth Day Weekend Ephemeral Wildflower Walk with Vernal Pool Expert Anthony Zemba (April 19, 10 a.m., Trout Brook Valley Jump Hill Preserve; click here to register).

Anthony Zemba leads a wildflower walk.

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It may be a (sub)urban legend, but I’ve heard that Violet Lane is named not for the flower, but for someone whose last name was Violet.

On the other hand, today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows that there indeed are violets on the small road off Myrtle Avenue.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

Which raises these important questions: Is there myrtle on Myrtle Avenue? And was it named for the plant, or a woman called Myrtle?

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And finally … in honor of Westport’s violets (story above):

(There’s a mystery about Violet Lane. But there’s none regarding “06880.” We’re your hyper-local blog, here for you 24/7/365 — and we rely on you for support. Please click here to help. Thanks!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Weston, Westport life

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Time Is On His Side: Governor Honors Keith Richards On Wednesday, At Westport Library

Posted on March 3, 2025 | 12 comments

Keith Richards is about to get some satisfaction.

The Rolling Stones co-founder, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, author — and Weston resident — is the first recipient of a major award.

And he’ll get it right here in Westport.

On Wednesday (March 5, 4 p.m.), Ned Lamont will present the inaugural Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence to the legendary guitarist. The Westport Library event is an invitation-only affair, not open to the public.

Among the attendees: many state and local dignitaries, and noted musicians. The Library closes that day at 3 p.m.

Keith Richards and his daughter Theodora at Sherwood Island State Park, 2021.

The Governor’s Award of Excellence celebrates residents who enrich our state’s cultural and civic life. Recipients epitomize Connecticut’s core values: creativity, resourcefulness, passion, dynamism and generosity.

The award includes a custom-designed medallion, crafted by state trooper Danny Carvalho and manufactured by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, plus a ribbon designed and sewn by Enfield fashion designer Justin Haynes.

Richards will also receive a proclamation from Lamont, offering the “Key to the State.”

Keith Richards (right) and Westport guitarist Charlie Karp, at the Georgetown Saloon. After leaving Staples High School in 11th grade, Karp went on to play with Buddy Miles and Jimi Hendrix. (Photo/Ray Flanigan)

“Connecticut has long been home to some of the world’s most innovative minds, boldest artists, and most generous hearts,” Lamont notes.

“This award was created to honor those whose creativity, resourcefulness, and passion have made a lasting impact on our state and beyond. Keith Richards is the epitome of these values — not only as one of the most influential musicians of all time but as a dedicated supporter of the arts, education, and community causes right here in Connecticut.”

Richards’ ties here are deep. A Westonite since 1985, he has long supported the area.

His philanthropy includes organizations 2 organizations that support people with disabilities: SPHERE and the Prospector Theater.

Keith Richards, with his daughters Theodora and Alexandra. Alexandra was married at Lachat Town Farm in Weston, though this photo is not from that reception.

Richards has also been an advocate for arts, education, and accessibility initiatives throughout the state.

Richards has also written 2 books: a memoir “Life,” and the children’s “Gus & Me: The Story of My Granddad and My First Guitar.”

“When you are growing up there are 2 institutional places that affect you most powerfully: the church, which belongs to God, and the public library, which belongs to you,” Richards says. “The public library is the great equalizer.”

“The Westport Library is beyond thrilled to host this momentous occasion honoring Keith Richards, a true cultural icon whose influence transcends generations,” adds Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer.

“As a library that celebrates creativity, storytelling, and the transformative power of the arts, we couldn’t imagine a more fitting place for this historic event.

“Keith’s legacy is woven into the fabric of music history, and we are honored to provide the stage where Connecticut will recognize his immeasurable contributions. This is not just a celebration of an artist, but of a life lived boldly, authentically, and with an undeniable passion for inspiring others.”

Weston’s own Keith Richards.

Richards — one of the greatest guitarists in the history of music — helped found the Rolling Stones nearly 70 years ago.

His songwriting partnership with Mick Jagger is among the most successful and prolific in rock history. Their singature songs include “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” “Satisfaction,” “Ruby Tuesday,” “Start Me Up,” “Happy,” “Miss You,” “Brown Sugar,” “Gimme Shelter,” “Wild Horses,” “It’s Only Rock n’ Roll (But I Like it),” and “As Tears Go By,” plus scores of others.

Richards’ solo albums include “Talk Is Cheap,” “Live at the Hollywood Palladium,” “Main Offender” and “Crosseyed Heart.”

He played a solider in the 1969 film “Man on Horseback,” himself on “The Simpsons,” and appeared in 2 “Pirates of the Caribbean” films as Captain Teague, the father of main character Jack Sparrow (who himself was loosely based on Richards).

In 2015 he released a Netflix documentary, “Keith Richards: Under The Influence.” It was partially filmed in Connecticut.

Richards was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1993, and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2004.

On Wednesday, he’ll add another great honor to that list.

Keith Richards with fellow Rolling Stones (from left) Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood and Charlie Watts, the drummer who died in 2021.

 

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Posted in Categories, Entertainment, Library, Weston

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Roundup: Weston Fire, Staples Football, Westport Soccer …

Posted on December 9, 2024 | 10 comments

The Thanksgiving Day fire just over the border in Weston destroyed one family’s home. It disrupted the holiday for their 26 guests — and for dozens of firefighters and other first responders from several towns.

Carmine Cenatiempo did not battle the blaze. But he deserves a shout-out nonetheless. Weston Emergency Medical Technician Ben Frimmer writes:

“Our crew was on scene for over 16 hours. When an event like that happens, we feed our teams in the field.

“It’s challenging to find food at 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving. Curtis Gunn called Carmine (who owns Calise’s Market in Westport.

“Within an hour and a half, he had left his own Thanksgiving meal, cooked and delivered food to feed the team. I was quite impressed with his selflessness.”

Carmine Cenatiempo, at his deli.

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Both Staples High School football games this year this year against Greenwich were shutouts.

Each team won one of them.

Unfortunately for the Wreckers, the Cardinals’ victory came yesterday, 14-0 in the semifinals of the state “LL” (extra large schools) tournament. 

It was revenge for the visitors, who were trounced 27-0 at the same Paul Lane Field on Thanksgiving Day.

Staples — ranked second in the state tourney ends the season 10-2. Greenwich, seeded #3, advanced to the title game against #5 West Haven. The game is set for 6:30 p.m. Saturday, at Central Connecticut State College.

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Speaking of sports: There was a reunion of sorts in Las Vegas on Saturday.

Staples graduates Lau ten Cate and Dylan Hoke were on opposing teams — for Amherst and Connecticut College, respectively — in the championhship match of the NCAA Division III men’s soccer tournament.

After scoreless sregulation and overtime, Amherst won 4-3 on penalty kicks.

Ten Cate — who played for Beachside’s MLS Next academy team during his high school years — has been injured this year, and did not play in the final. Hoke, a former Wrecker and Beachside athlete, played 93 minutes. He had an excellent freshman season for the Camels.

Lau ten Cate (left) and Dylan Hoke

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Every Sunday since Hamas invaded Israel on October 7, 2023, a group of residents has marched through town. They remind passersby of the need to bring the hostages home.

Yesterday, Jennifer Wolff reports, they were joined by a special guest: Santa Claus.

The Big Guy even chanted: “Bring them home now!”

Santa Claus, with yesterday’s Run4TheirLives marchers.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is even more intriguing than usual.

Can you come up with a clever caption? Email 06880blog@gmail.com!

(Photo/Pat Weist)

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And finally … on this date in 1851, the first YMCA was established n North America. It opened in Montreal.

(Sports, politics, heroes — they’re here today, and every day, at “06880.” If you appreciate our hyper-local coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Local business, Politics, Sports, Staples HS, Weston

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Roundup: Cribari Bridge Lighting, Lyman Fundraising, Small Business Day …

Posted on November 30, 2024 | 4 comments

Two days after they were ordered, the holiday lights to brighten the William F. Cribari Bridge arrived.

An energetic, efficient and very committed group of Westporters made sure that the beloved annual tradition — in danger when the lights were removed, and the long-time sponsor stepped back — continues.

The lights will be hung Sunday night, starting at 10 p.m. (the bridge will be closed during that time).

The gala bridge lighting is set for 5 p.m. Monday. The entire town is invited.

Westport PAL — one of the lights’ sponsors — will have collection boxes for the toy drive they run, with the Westport Police Department. Unwrapped toys can be dropped off at the bridge, and the Bridge at Saugatuck restaurant.

The restaurant will also offer half-priced wine and beer from 5 to 8 p.m.

Cribari Bridge lights. (Photo/January Stewart)

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Westport’s fundraising drive — to send children from our sister city of Lyman, Ukraine to a camp in the mountains, a respite from a third winter of war — has gotten off to a slow start.

Our goal of $56,000 would enable 200 boys and girls to enjoy time together, with teachers and therapists, at Karabin. The sports, crafts, games and movies — along with schoolwork — takes place in a setting far removed from their hometown, a few miles from the Russian front.

Right now, Lyman’s youngster have been evacuated. The therapeutic camp is a chance to enjoy normalcy, with friends and trusted adults.

It costs about $280 to send one child to Karabin, for 10 days.

How about it, Westport? Can we raise $56,000, to ensure that 200 kids in our sister city enjoy time away from the terrors of the past 3 years? 

Just click here. Under “Designation,” choose “Westport-Lyman sister city” from the dropdown menu. You can also choose a monthly or one-time donation. If you use the mail or Venmo option, please make a note: “For Westport-Lyman.”

Students from Weston’s sister city of Siversk, at the Karabin camp. Westport is raising funds for children from Lyman, our sister city.

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Yesterday was Black Friday. Next week is Cyber Monday.

Today is Small Business Saturday.

There are plenty of local stores to choose from. They’re the heart and soul of our town. Think local!

Meanwhile, next Saturday — December 7 — is another opportunity to support small businesses.

The “06880” Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll features over 70 merchants, offering discounts, deals, gifts and freebies. Click here for details.

WEST Boutique on Post Road East is one of many locally owned businesses.

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Here is an update on the Thanksgiving Day house fire, near the Westport border.

At 3:42 p.m., Weston Fire was alerted to a fire at 40 Weston Road. The garage fire spread quickly into the 10,000-square-foot residence. Firefighters’ efforts were thwarted by dangerous fire conditions and structural collapse.

In addition, a vehicle drove over the water supply hose on Weston Road, damaging the line and stopping the flow of water for several minutes.

The 25 or so people inside the home escaped without injury. But the house is uninhabitable, and the heat from the fire melted the plastic on some cars in the driveway, CT Insider reports.

Personnel remained on the scene for over 16 hours, battling the blaze. Mutual aid assistance was provided by several fire departments including Westport, along with the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Weston Public Works Department, Weston Police Department, Westport Police Department and Weston EMS.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Weston Fire Marshal. Preliminary investigation shows it began in the garage, the result of frying a turkey. (Hat tip: Bill Dedman)

Thanksgiving Day house fire in Weston. (Photo and details courtesy of Weston Volunteer Firie Department)

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At Staples High School, Class of 2019 graduate Ryan Smith won 2 cross country state championships.

He went on to Bates College, where he competed in back-to-back NCAA national championships.

On Thursday, he won Pequot Runners’ 47th annual 5-mile Turkey Trot.

Wearing his Staples white singlet, he crossed the finish line, soggy but triumphant, in 24:54.

Not far behind — in third place — was current Staples track athlete Sam Zwick-Lavinsky.

Click here for all results.

Ryan Smith

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It’s a natural fit: Dogs, and wide-open beaches.

Obeying the sign to keep off the boardwalk, Bobo shows how to enjoy Compo correctly, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … today is the 100th birthday of satirist Alan Sherman. He had a brief heyday in the early 1960s — including the novelty smash hit below —  before dying in 1973, 10 days before his 49th birthday. He had been undergoing treatment for emphysema, asthma, and obesity, and died of respiratory failure.

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Posted in Children, Local business, Politics, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Sports, Staples HS, Weston

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Roundup: Turkey Trot, Football, Soccer …

Posted on November 29, 2024 | 8 comments

Yesterday’s rain did not dampen the Turkey Trot.

Hundreds of runners — including 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker — took part in the annual event. They got some exercise, saw some friends, and worked up an appetite for the feasts that followed.

(Photo/Jim Wolf)

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Rain did not deter the Staples football team, either.

Both the offense and defense excelled, in a 27-0 pasting of traditional Thanksgiving Day rival Greenwich at Paul Lane Field. The Cardinals are now 8-2.

The decisive win lifts the Wreckers’ record to 9-1, and gives them the #2 spot in the state “LL” (extra large schools) tournament. Fairfield Prep is #1.

Staples will host #7 Manchester (6-4) in the LL quarterfinals. The game is set for Tuesday (December 3), at a time to be determined.

Nathan Smith intercepts a pass, and scores.

Action from yesteray’s Staples (blue) vs. Greenwich football game. (Photos/Douglas Healey)

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Meanwhile, not far away at Wakeman Field, nearly 30 current and former Staples boys soccer players ignored the rain, and enjoyed their annual Turkey Bowl alumni game.

The oldest participant was Dave Wilson. He captained the Wreckers in 1975, then led the Dartmouth College squad too.

Among the players: Dylan Hoke. A Connecticut College freshman, he’ll be playing in the NCAA Division III national semifinals Thursday. The Camels face Washington & Lee, in Las Vegas.

Turkey Bowl players. (Photo/Barry Guiduli)

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Westport Police and Fire Departments assisted their Weston counterparts yesterday, in battling a fire that desroyed a home near the Broad Street and Weston Road intersection.

Traffic was diverted for several hours, as firefighters from Westport, Weston and Georgetown fought the blaze.

Water was pumped from the pond between West Branch Road and Broad Street. Smoke was smelled as far away as North Avenue, nearly 2 miles away.

(Photo/Sayje Benjamin Photo, via Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services)

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These 2 hooded mergansers have not headed south yet for the winter. They joined a black duck, paddling around Burying Hill Beach and posing for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … Happy Black Friday!

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Posted in Sports, Staples HS, Weston

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Teens Turn Antisemitism Into Teachable Moment

Posted on November 20, 2024 | 13 comments

A disturbing antisemitic incident has had a very positive outcome.

Late Monday evening, Rabbi Michael Friedman sent this message to his Temple Israel congegants:

Dear Friends,

A few weeks ago, on the day before Kol Nidrei, and just a few days after the first anniversary of October 7, a swastika was etched on the football locker of a Jewish student at Weston High School.

A swastika etched on a Jewish student’s locker is different from a swastika drawn, for example, on a bathroom stall or the seat of a school bus (both of which have also happened locally in recent years), because this is a targeted act.

But the story I want to tell you is not one of persecution and antisemitism. Instead, this is a story of resilience and pride, and about the great faith we should have in the next generation.

The student on whose locker the swastika was etched — who grew up here at Temple Israel — was brave enough to inform coaches and the athletic director.

Weston High School athletics

Then later that very evening another Jewish student on the football team — also a Temple Israel student — recorded a courageous and emotional message to his teammates about the impact this swastika had on him, and posted it on the team’s internal chat.

The school administration and town police swiftly coordinated a thorough investigation, according to the policies and procedures that they have in place. Ultimately the investigation was inconclusive; we don’t know who etched the swastika.

A group of Temple Israel teens had recently formed the Jewish Student Union at Weston High School, and swiftly jumped into action.

They approached the principal and administration, advocating for a schoolwide assembly to address the incident. These teen leaders envisioned, shaped, organized, executed and led that schoolwide assembly on Friday morning. They demonstrated initiative and leadership throughout the process.

The assembly included words from the targeted student, the testimony of a Holocaust survivor which was paired with an engaging video, and a message from Senator Blumenthal that the students them themselves had reached out and obtained.

The students also asked me to speak. I taught about the power of symbols, which not only stand for something concrete but also invoke certain emotions and feelings.

I showed a series of symbols on the screen and asked students to share what that symbol made them feel.

When we got to the swastika, Jewish students were able to share in front of their peers how the etching of a swastika on a Jewish student’s locker made them feel targeted, and how the act reverberated throughout the Jewish community of our town.

Finally a representative from the ADL taught about strategies by which one can oppose hate.

The assembly was an excellent and impactful educational experience for the entire school. I want to underscore that the students themselves envisioned, created, shaped and ran the assembly from start to finish. And I credit the school administration for trusting and supporting them, and for giving them the opportunity to stand up and lead.

I am so very proud of the Temple Israel teens who took action following this antisemitic incident.

When the response to an act of hate could have been fear or silence, what the high school community saw instead was courage and pride. Each of them — starting with the one whose locker was targeted, continuing to his football teammate, and then to the many leaders of the JSU — provide a model for all of us.

Many of them began in our Early Childhood Center. All of them were (or are) students in our Kesher program. They embody what success looks like for all our children: to be knowledgeable and proud Jews, and when the time comes for them to act in the world, they do so with courage and integrity.

Thanks to them, even in these trying times which can often feel very dark, we know that the future is very bright.

L’shalom,
Rabbi Michael S. Friedman

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Posted in Education, religion, Sports, Teenagers, Weston

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Roundup: Helene Help, Weston Meteor, Political Debate …

Posted on October 9, 2024 | 2 comments

All morning yesterday, and through 2 p.m., the Stop & Shop parking lot was packed.

Residents responded in droves to calls from the Westport Rotary Club and Sunrise Rotary to bring supplies of all kind — food, tools, medical items,  generators and more — for victims of Hurricane Helene.

An enormous truck was packed. By mid-afternoon, it was on its way south.

(Photos/Connie Belta)

Many folks contributed cash too, for the Rotarians to buy more supplies.

The Rotary Clubs — and countless hungry, hurting folks in North Carolina — thank all who helped.

And if more is needed for Florida, we’ll be there too.

(Photo/Gina Giannone)

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On December 14, 1807, a comet landed in Weston.

Over 200 years later — on October 18-20 and October 25-27 — Lachat Town Farm will be transformed into a modern-day, supernatural site.

Visitors will walk through a strange landscape, encounter disturbing creatures, and see scary stuff. They’ll be challenged to “solve the mystery behind the meteor before it’s too late.”

The special, immersive Halloween adventure includes a 45-minute interactive walking tour filled with live actors, horrific scenes, and chilling surprises. Lachat says: “Experience the ‘almost true’ story of the meteor, and discover Weston in a completely new light.

In a nod to 2024, seasonal treats and drinks will be available for purchase.

Parental discretion is advised, with a recommendation for ages 12 and up. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Thirty people will be accommodated per time slot. For tickets and more information, click here or call 203-246-8431.

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Candidates for Westport’s State Senate seat, and the 2 State Representative districts here, will face each other on the Westport Library stage.

The October 22 debate (12 p.m.) is sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce. Executive director Matthew Mandell will serve as moderator.

Kami Evans and Ceci Maher are vying for State Senate District 26. Jonathan Steinberg and John Bolton are running for the State House in the 136th District; Peter Bang and Dominique Johnson are in the 143rd District race.

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First it was Waldbaum’s.

Then Barnes & Noble.

For a while it was supposed to be Amazon Fresh.

On October 24, the anchor tenant of Post Plaza is once again a supermarket.

BigY opens that day, at 1076 Post Road East. A “grand opening” celebration is set for November 7.

Opening soon. (Photo/Arthur Hayes)

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MoCA’s Photography Fine Art Fair will attract a large crowd (October 18 and 19, noon to 4 p.m).

An early access ticket (October 18, 11 a.m. to noon) offers a chance to browse and buy one-of-a-kind and limited edition photos from talented and emerging photographers.

Click here for early access ($100) and general admission ($10) tickets.

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Supper & Soul returns to the Westport Library — and 12 downtown restaurants.

The event — which combines a 3-course dinner, rock/jam band concert at the Library, and happy hour prices for after-show drinks — is Saturday, November 9.

The band, Pajamas, will make their much-anticipated Connecticut debut. They have roots in the Grateful Dead, David Bowie, Phish and Goose.

This is the 11th dinner-and-concert event sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

One ticket ($84) covers a 6 p.m. meal at participating restaurants, the 8 p.m. concert, and drinks at those restaurants afterward. Concert-only tickets are $32.

Participating restaurants are Arezzo, Basso, Capuli, Casa Me, Don Memo, Emmy Squared, Il Pastaficio, Mexicue, Nômade, Spotted Horse, Goji and Walrus Alley.

For more information and tickets, click here.

Pajamas headlines the November 9 “Supper & Soul.”

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We may see Ben Casparius in the World Series.

The 2017 Staples High graduate has been added to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ National League Division Series roster. They face the San Diego Padres.

Casparius replaces another right-handed pitcher, who is injured.

The 25-year-old was called up from the minors in August. He was 2-0 in 3 relief appearances, with a 2.16 ERA. He struck out 12 batters and walked 4, in 8 1/3 innings. (Hat tip: Jeff Mitchell)

Ben Casparius

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For 17 years, Earth Animal’s Mitten Project has helped CT Foodshare tackle food insecurity.

Once again, the Post Road store will match every dollar donated by customers.

Last year’s drive raised $65,000. This year’s goal is $70,000.

The Mitten Project will run through December 31. The campaign begins with “Pumpkins for Good.” All proceeds from this month’s sale of pumpkins and gourds at Earth Animal will go to CT Foodshare.

It will be followed by the sale of handmade fair-trade mittens, dog treat Advent calendars, and a “Shop & Give” program involving local businesses.

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The latest “Little Free Library” — small roadside structures, courtesy of private homeowners — is at 69 Morningside Drive South.

It’s like others around town — filled with books to borrow (with an invitation to donate your own) — but with a twist.

This one has a bench. So you can start reading even before you get home.

69 Morningside Drive South. (Hat tip and photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Robert Steven Williams’ new documentary, “To the State of the Good Life,” is as timely as a film can be.

An intimate look at the American Dream through the story of a DACA recipient in Nebraska, it highlights the struggles of over 600,000 similar immigrants.

It will be shown at the Westport Library on October 17 (7 p.m.). Afterward, Williams moderates a panel discussion with experts — and Raúl Arcos Hawkins, who is featured in the video.

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Also at the Library: a special 9/11 event.

Tom Canavan worked on the 47th floor of the North Tower of the World Trade Center. As he escaped the wreckage on September 11, 2001, he was caught under the collapse of the adjacent 110-story South Tower.

Digging his way out of steel and debris, Canavan became one of 19 people to survive the collapse of the Twin Towers.

On December 3 (7 p.m.), Canavan will share his story in an interview with Christie Seyglinski and Andrew Colabella.

Colabella is a Westport Town Representative Meeting member, and civic volunteer.

Seyglinski grew up in the shadow of the Twin Towers. When the 9/11 Memorial opened, she became a volunteer. She is a close friend of Canavan’s.

Tom Canavan, and the Twin Towers.

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Yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club lunch speaker, Shannon Calvert, is ab amateur astronomer, photographer, and president of the Westport Astronomical Society.

The WAS hosts viewing nights on Wednesdays at their Bayberry Lane observatory, and provides classes and workshops in astronomy, telescope training and astrophotography.

They also organize monthly online public Zoom call with experts from around the world, representing different scientific fields.

Calvert’s magnificent photos of nebulas, galaxies, star clusters and supernovas are aesthetically beautiful, scientifically informative — and the highlight of his presentation.

A Shannon Calvert photo of the universe.

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Tracy Porosoff describes today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo: “My sunflowers may look dead to us, but to the goldfinches, they look delicious! They are visiting and munching away.”

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … on this day in 1701, the Collegiate School of Connecticut was chartered in Old Saybrook. The school later moved to New Haven, and changed its name to Yale University.

(When was the last time you heard about the Weston meteor? You never know what you’ll learn on “06880.” But we can’t do it without our readers’ support. Please click hre to contribute. Thanks!)

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Posted in Local business, Politics, Restaurants, Sports, Weston

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Roundup: Westoberfest, Kyle Martino, Burying Hill …

Posted on September 23, 2024 | 3 comments

Westoberfest had all the elements of an early fall (okay, last day of summer) celebration on Saturday.

Beer (from 22 breweries) and pumpkin crafts drew perhaps the largest crowd in the 7-year history of the Westport Downtown Association event, to Elm Street and environs.

But plenty else kept them there, including 2 dozen vendors, 6 food trucks, music, and kids’ activities.

Westoberfest has quickly become one of the highlights of the WDA — and entire Westport — calendar.

We’ll drink to that!

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When Kyle Martino was growing up in Westport, he played pickup soccer with and against much older players — including college stars who had graduated from Staples.

The training worked. Martino went on to become 1999 National High School Player of the Year; MLS Rookie of the Year; a teammate of David Beckham’s on the Los Angeles Galaxy, and an 8-time US men’s national team player.

Martino’s passion for the game continues unabated. He has developed a unique retractable goal that turns any basketball court or blacktop into a small-sided field, and a non profit (Over Under Initiative) to bring soccer to underserved communities.

On Friday Martino was in Westport, discussing his ideas, seeking input and help, and encouraging his home town to be a national leader in the movement back to small-sided soccer, and encouraging informal play by all ages.

He brought some heavy hitters to the meeting at a private home: Cobi Jones, his former Galaxy teammate and the all-time leader in US men’s national team appearances (164), plus Edson Buddle, his longtime friend from New Rochelle who scored over 100 MLS goals.

Dave Briggs was at the meeting. He asked Martino to explain his mission. Click below to listen:

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According to Reproductive Equity Now, anti-abortion centers — also called “crisis pregnancy centers” — are “facilities that pretend to be reproductive health clinics, but in reality, exist to dissuade people from accessing abortion care using deceptive advertising, abortion stigma, and medical disinformation.” REN says that in Connecticut, they outnumber “legitimate abortion clinics’ nearly 2 to 1.

On October 16 at MoCA CT, the organization will screen “Preconceived.” The new documentary “exposes anti-abortion centers’ deceptive and dangerous practices.”

There are 2 showings: 10 a.m. (click here for tickets) and 7 p.m. (click here for tickets). The evening event includes light refreshments at 6:30, and a brief post-screening panel with elected officials and providers.

All proceeds benefit Reproductive Equity Now.

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Regular visitors to Burying Hill Beach know that the entrance road floods routinely.

But the breadth of yesterday’s water — particularly in the absence of any rain — surprised even veteran beach-goers.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

As with Saturday’s flooding at Quentin Road and Compo Beach Road, we may be heading into a new “new normal.”

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Adam Vengrow gives a shout-out to Billi at the Post Road East Mobil station, across from Playhouse Square.

Adam writes: “I popped a tire yesterday, and couldn’t find where.

I went right tot he best. It was Sunday morning, but Billi stopped what he was doing and fixed us right up. Love them!”

(Photo/Adam Vengrow)

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Visitors can relive the golden age of Weston at The Peter Thorp House on Sunday (September 29, 4 to 7 p.m.).

The Weston History & Culture is hosting a fundraiser, with guided tours of the historic property, a cocktail party in the rose garden, a musical performance, and raffles.

Early bird tickets ($125) include 5 raffle tickets; click here.

Peter Thorp House garden.

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The Pantry — the Fairfield market very popular with Westporters — has reopened, following a recent fire.

Owners were buoyed by support from local merchants. Westport’s Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center sent parsley, basil and edible flowers. Harry’s Wine & Liquor offered beer and wine for the clean-up crew. Other businesses helped too, Mary Condon reports.

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The only downside to Saturday’s LobsterFest were the spotted lanternflies covering trees at nearby Compo Beach South Beach.

They landed on a few attendees, who brushed them off, then squished them.

“You hate to do it, because they’re really so pretty,” one festival-goer said.

“But they really are gross.”

And invasive.

Here’s a “Westport … Naturally” photo of a dead lanternfly. It is indeed both pretty and gross.

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And finally … songwriter Billy Edd Wheeler died this past week in North Carolina. He was 91. Click here for a full obituary, and click below for his most famous song.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution, to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Local business, Sports, Staples HS, Weston

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