Roundup: Sister Cities’ Goal, Saturday’s Stroll, Wreckers Roll …

Posted on December 4, 2024 | 1 comment

Nearly 80 years ago, Westport’s sister city relationship with Marigny, France began with Christmas gifts.

Westporters donated, then shipped dozens of presents, for youngsters in the Normandy town that was just beginning to recover from World War II.

The tradition continued for years. The boys and girls who received those gifts — now in their 80s — have never forgotten Westport’s generosity.

Now Marigny is paying it forward. For the second year in a row, they have collected, and shipped, Christmas gifts for children in Lyman, Ukraine. That’s the sister city that Marigny and Westport now share.

They’ll add others — a total of 500 — for other youngsters in Kharkiv and surrounding towns, which like Lyman have been devastated by Russia’s invasion.

Gifts galore, in Marigny.

This Saturday, Marigny residents are invited to a “symbolic send-off ceremony” of the presents.

Donors, partners and friends of the Westport-Marigny-Le-Lozon-Lyman Association, and the Rotary Clubs of the Manche region, will be there. They’ve been working on this project all year long.

The ceremony takes place in one of the central squares in the village: “Place Westport.”

Meanwhile, don’t forget: Westport is helping Lyman this holiday season too.

We’re raising $56,000, to ensure that 200 kids in our sister city enjoy time away from the terrors of the past 3 years. That will pay for them — scattered now, as they have been evacuated from their homes — to get together, with friends, teachers and counselors, at a therapeutic camp in the Carpathian Mountains.

To help, please 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.”

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Ho ho ho!

Look who’s promoting this Saturday’s “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll.

Click below to see. Then click here for full details on the festive, family-friendly event.

See you on Main Street, from 5 to 7 p.m.!

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The Staples High School football team rolled to a 42-6 victory over Manchester  last night, in the quarterfinals of the state Class “LL” (extra large schools) tournament.

There #2-ranked Wreckers move on to the semifinals on Sunday. They’ll face #3 Greenwich at 12:30 p.m. That contest, like yesterday’s, will be played at home.

The Cardinals are familiar with Paul Lane Field. Just lat week, on Thanksgiving Day, the Westporters trounced them, 27-0.

The No. 2 Staples football team put together a dominant effort in the state Class LL quarterfinals Tuesday, clobbering No. 7 Manchester 42-6.

Quarterback Neil Weil (9 of 18 completions for 155 yards; 3 touchdowns), Shane Sandrew (2 touchdowns), Anthony Armentano (2 TDs) and Nathan Smith (1 TD) keyed the decisive win.

Nathan Smith, in action against Greenwich last week. (Photo/Douglas Healey)

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Last night, Westport’s Town Representative Meeting celebrated its 75th anniversary with speeches, cake, and a commemorative booklet.

But the legislative body is also looking forward.

Their page on the town website has been updated. Gone is the dull, bureaucratic look. It’s now livelier — at least, in the confines of what a municipal website should look like. (Click here to see.)

A header shows members marching proudly (and non-partisanly) in the Memorial Day. Photos liven up the links, to pages like FAQs, Members, District Map and Minutes.

There’s even a link to that new 75th anniversary brochure.

Screenshot of the new town website RTM page.

PS: Planning way ahead: The RTM invites all Westporters to a “Community Conversation,” with members.

Mark the date: Sunday, March 23, 2025, 2 p.m. at the Westport Library.

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Also last night: A large crowd celebrated the release of Alison Milwe Grace’s new book, “Savor: Recipes to Celebrate,” last night at Wakeman Town Farm.

The energetic, talented owner of AMG Catering & Events greeted her fans and friends. She answered questions from her aunt, longtime Westporter Liz Milwe.

And, of course, she made sure her guests were well fed.

Alison Milwe Grace, her book and her chacuterie. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Easton Road was closed in both directions between Bayberry Lane and Sturges Highway this morning.

A large tree fell on a pickup truck, blocking both lanes. The driver was hospitalized.

A state crew was on the scene, cleaning debris.

(Hat tip and photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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Saugatuck Rowing Club’s Holiday Festival this Sunday (December 8, 1 to 4 p.m.) will benefit the Survive-Oars, the great program that helps breast cancer survivors heal and find community on and off the water.

The afternoon features live music, mulled wine, spiked warm cider, fire pits, s’mores, a raw bar, charcuterie, hot cocoa, dunkable grilled cheese and tomato soup, and a cash bar.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there (1 to 2:30 p.m.).

Guests are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for Al’s Angels.

Tickets are $50 (tax-deductible) — and kids are free. Click here for tickets.

Saugatuck Survive-Oars

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Also this Sunday: The Saugatuck Congregational Church’s Winter Choral Concert (December 8, 7 p.m.)

Two favorite groups — the Staples Orphenians and Dartmouth Brovertones — perform classic pop tunes, and Christmas favorites. Admission is free.

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“Broadway’s Bad Boys” invade the Westport Country Playhouse next month, for 5 performances (January 23-26).

They’ll showcase many of the good songs that villains sing. There’s “Phantom of the Opera,” “Beauty and the Beast,” even a little Harold Hill.

Click here for dates, tickets and more information.

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The plantings up and down Soundview Drive — courtesy of the Compo Beach Improvement Association — delight beachgoers every spring and summer.

But they have a special beauty now, as winter nears. Celia Campbell-Mohn captured their late-fall look, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … on this day in 1956, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash recorded together at the Sun Record Studios in Memphis. It was the only time the “Million Dollar Quartet” played together, and was entirely unplanned.

(We’re not asking for a million dollars [though we wouldn’t turn it down.] But we hope you appreciate “06880” enough to toss a few coins, or whatever feels right, our way. Just click here — thanks!)

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Posted in Downtown, Local politics, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Net Zero Goal: How Attainable Is Sustainability?

Posted on December 4, 2024 | 16 comments

In 2017, the Representative Town Meeting resolved that Westport would try its best to become a Net Zero community by 2050.

We were one of the first municipalities in the state to set that goal.

How achievable is it?

Last night, the RTM approved — by a vote of 23-8 — a request from the Parks & Recreation Department superintendent to spend $862,670 for a 4-year lease program for 12 pieces of maintenance equipment for the Longshore Golf Course.

The current equipment has been in service an average of 13 years, with approximately 240,000 miles each.

A look at a joint meeting last week of 2 RTM committees — Parks & Rec, and Finance — sheds light on the opportunities, and challenges, that town officials face.

Right now, the committees learned, up to 80% of Parks & Rec’s mechanic’s time is spent repairing equipment. That works out to $65,000, plus $27,000 in replacement parts. Nearly $100,000 is spent annually, keeping old equipment working.

The Longshore golf course needs constant maintenance. (Photo/Dave Dellinger)

The state bid process means we’d pay the lowest price available. Parks & Rec officials selected Toro. They’ve been using that company, and have maintenance equipment to service Toro specifically.

Some of the equipment sought is not available in electric models. Triplex mowers are — but cost $26,000 more apiece. Four mowers would add $104,000 to the price, plus charging stations.

In addition, there is a 1-2 year wait time for the electric versions. Perhaps, committee members said, it makes more sense to consider electric mowers at the next lease.

The cost of the new equipment will be recovered by raising golf fees. With 36,000 rounds played a year, raising fees by $2 to $5 a round would generate about $200,000 a year. Full recovery would take 4 years.

The 4-year leases include a $1 buyout. After that time, the town has rights to place them up for auction to recover full value of the machines.

The plan would be to embrace the leading technology then, with new equipment.

Golf is the number one revenue producer for Parks & Rec. Committee members noted the importance of maintaining the Longshore course at a “very high level.”

Officials noted that Parks & Rec is the department in town that has “most embraced electric machinery.”

One attendee said that the town should have a broader discussion about electric and automated mowers. They would reduce manpower and other costs, and place a greater focus on sustainability everywhere.

The RTM Finance Committee approved the proposal for new equipment 4-1, with 1 abstention. The RTM Parks & Recreation Committee also endorsed the prooposal, 5-1, with 1 abstention.

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Sustainable Westport was not pleased with the committees’ recommendations. They said:

Sustainable Westport supports all efforts to reduce community emissions.

Entering into a 4-year lease for 12 pieces of gas-powered golf course maintenance equipment will have deleterious effects on both human health and the environment. We encourage the town of Westport to be a leader in sustainability instead of quickly dismissing further investigation into electric alternatives.

Mike West, superintendent of the Parks & Recreation Department, reported to the RTM Parks and Recreation Committee that some, but not all of the equipment needing to be replaced, was available in an electric model.

Would the town consider purchasing some of the 12 pieces in an electric model? It does not need to be all or nothing.

Other towns are implementing electric maintenance equipment successfully (click here).

We understand that there is a premium to going electric, but in order to fully understand the cost and benefit, we should see an analysis that includes fuel and maintenance savings.

Sustainable Westport defines sustainability as the intersection of economically responsible, environmentally sound and socially just reduction of impact on resources.

In 2017 Westport town leadership, the RTM and Sustainable Westport overwhelmingly approved the town goal of being Net Zero by 2050. To achieve this goal, we need to move to reliable, resilient and renewable energy and electrifying our lawn and maintenance equipment, as well as cutting down on excessive and unnecessary use of gas-powered equipment is a move in the right direction.

Gas-powered maintenance equipment is a major source of carbon monoxide, which when inhaled cause fatigue, headaches, confusion, and dizziness due to inadequate oxygen delivery to the brain.

One hour of gas blower use creates as much pollution as driving a sedan 1,100 miles; small engines, like those found in gas leaf blowers, are a larger source of smog-forming emissions than passenger cars.

Westport and Fairfield County already has one of the highest ozone levels in the state. Gas leaf blowers are a major source of nitrogen oxide, which combines with VOCs and sunlight to form additional ground-level (“bad”) ozone. The EPA recommends any area with high ozone levels restrict gas leaf blower use.

Fuel spillage associated with gas-powered equipment contributes to groundwater pollution.

Encouraging the reduction in the use of gas powered lawn equipment is part of an overall goal to transition to zero emissions lawn equipment, which is a key component of moving closer to becoming a Net Zero community.

Westport needs to honor its commitment to using best efforts to get to Net Zero by 2050 and we do that, in part, by making small changes. Electrifying Longshore maintenance equipment is a great place to start.

As the Parks & Recreation Department noted at the RTM committee meeting, “golf is the number one revenue producer for P&R.”

Longshore golf course is a highly visible and popular community asset that is frequented by Westport residents of all ages.

Let’s show Westport residents that Westport cares not only about providing a well-cared for and maintained public golf course, but that Westport also cares deeply about doing so in the most sustainable way feasible.

(“06880” covers the environment, town politics, recreation — separately, and when they intersect. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Local politics, Longshore

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Pic Of The Day #2785

Posted on December 3, 2024 | 2 comments

Saugatuck River reflections (Photo/Nancy Lally)

2 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Pic of the Day

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Roundup: Holiday Stroll, New Cops, Gavin Creel …

Posted on December 3, 2024 | 2 comments

There are 22 days until Christmas — but only 5 to the 4th annual “06880”/ Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll.

This Saturday’s event (December 7, 5 to 7 p.m.) will turn downtown into a fun, family-friendly and festive street festival. It’s a chance to meet friends and neighbors, enjoy free nibbles and drinks, and enjoy great discounts.

Staples’ elite Orphenians will sing. There’s a DJ, “piglet” reindeer, a “Human Snow Globe,” and the very popular s’mores fire pit.

Kids’ highlights include photos with Santa, Staples Players’ Buddy the Elf and other characters, face painting and ornament making.

Over 70 retailers, restaurants and others offer gifts, giveaway and more. Click here, then scroll down for the full list.

PS: Please bring a toy or two, for the Westport Police Department’s Toys for Tots collection box. Plus a letter to Santa, to drop in his very own mailbox.

S’mores … 

… and Santa. (Photos/Dan Woog)

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The Westport Police Department has added 2 new officers.

Devonte Savage, age 30, comes from Bristol. He has worked for both the Hartford and Meriden Police Departments, most recently as a School Resource Officer.

Handel Sam, also 30, is a Bridgeport resident. Formerly a personal trainer, he will study for 6 months at the Milford Police Academy, then do 4 more months of field training in Westport.

Chief Foti Koskinas thanks the new officers for “taking a chance on the Westport PD. (They had) several employment opportunities, and chose Westport.”

Police Chief Foti Koskinas (center) with Officers Handel Sam and Devonte Savage.

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Yesterday’s Roundup reported on the removal of holiday decorations from a Bayberry Lane stop sign, at Easton Road.

Unlike October, when a resident took down a Halloween skeleton from the same spot, this one was done by Westport’s Public Works Department. Decorations are not allowed on public road signs.

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Mark your calendar for these upcoming Westport Farmers’ Market events. All are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their winter location: Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, on Sylvan Lane:

Saturday, December 7: Artists’ Market (3 dozen artists show and sell their wares)

Monday, December 23: Holiday Market

Tuesday, December 31: New Year’s Eve Market

Coming in January: the annual coat, mitten and hat drive, plus an educational program with wellness instructors.

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Markley Rizzi exhibits her oil paintings all month, as the Westport Book Shop’s featured exhibitor.

“My awareness of the earth, water and sky, and their relationship to the human spirit, allows me to paint freely, drawing on life experiences such as being a mother and my love for the water and the environment,” the artist says.

A reception is set for December 18 (6 to 7:30 p.m.).

Markley Rizzi, with her artwork.

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Yesterday, friends and family of Gavin Creel celebrated his life, at the St. James Theatre.

Tonight at 6:45 he receives the ultimate actor’s tribute: The marquee lights of all Broadway theaters will be dimmed.

Creel — who died on September 30 at 48, of melanotic peripheral nerve sheath sarcoma, a rare form of cancer — was well known in Westport.

In January 2022, PBS broadcast “Stars on Stage,” a special performance taped 4 months earlier at the Playhouse.

Eight months later, when Renée Elise Goldsberry headlined the WCP benefit gala, Tony and Olivier Award winner Gavin Creel offered “coffee and conversation” as a silent auction item

Creel was a graduate of the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theater and Dance, about a decade before Staples High School 2003 graduate Justin Paul.

But when Paul and his musical theater songwriting partner, Benj Pasek, were just starting their careers, Creel gave them a boost by performing their songs.

Yesterday, screenwriter and theater journalist Jill Johnson Mann posted the audio of an interview she conducted with Creel, for Westport Magazine.

He talks about his journey to stardom, the challenges of the pandemic, the highlights of his Playhouse performance, and more. Click below to listen.

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Speaking of the Playhouse:

A full house turned out last night for “True Art.” The final Script in Hand reading of 2024, it was a sharp and funny tale of ambition, deception and self-discovery in the cutthroat art world.

Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand curator Mark Shanahan (3rd from left) poses with cast members and others (from left): Alyssa May Gold, Kimberly Senior (director), Charlie Reid, Bob Ari, Rebekah Vega-Romero (stage directions), Deidre Madigan, Jessica Provenz (playwright). (Photo/Dave Matlow)

Meanwhile, series and single tickets are now on sale for the 2025 Script in Hand season.

Readings are set for 8 Mondays: January 13, February 3, April 14, May 5, June 9, September 8, November 3 and December 1. Click here to purchase, and for details.

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Pianist David Hazeltine returns to the VFW this Thursday (December 5), to headline Jazz at the Post.

He has recorded 35 CDs as a leader, and hundreds more as a sideman.

Hazeltine is joined by trumpeter Josh Bruneau, bassist Boots Maleson, drummer Tim Horner, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Shows are 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Dinner service begins at 7. Tickets are $20; $15 for veterans and students. Click here for reservations.

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The first frost of the year was yesterday.

Pam Docters captured a tiny bit of it, for our “Westport … Naturally” all-weather feature.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … on this date in 1960, the musical “Camelot” opened on Broadway. It has since become associated with President Kennedy’s administration.

(Camelot may not be real. But “06880” sure is. And we really do rely on reader support to keep existing. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Entertainment, Police, Westport Country Playhouse

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Good News For Westport’s Homeless And Hungry: Gillespie Center Reopens Soon

Posted on December 3, 2024 | 4 comments

As the housing crisis worsened last year, Westport’s Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place — the downtown site with beds for 15 men and 4 women, respectively — closed.

The reason: much-needed renovations. Homes with Hope — the non-profit that for 40 years has housed the homeless, provided meals and a food pantry for the hungry, and offered other supportive services — moved its residents into Linxweiler House (on the Post Road between McDonald’s and Fresh Market), and other shelters.

HwH is a ray of hope for unhoused people — and the working poor, who also face difficulties finding a place to live. CEO Helen McAlinden says a person must earn $42.50 an hour to afford a studio apartment in Fairfield County. Many Homes with Hope clients, meanwhile, make just $15 an hour. Even with 2 or 3 jobs, they cannot pay rent.

Gillespie Center, before renovations. (Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

Linxweiler House has been a temporary solution. After initial hesitation, Crescent Road residents have embraced their new neighbors.

But soon, the Gillespie Center will be back in operation. After months of construction, it will be more functional, efficient and welcoming than ever.

It’s not just for homeless people, either. A large, well-lit new conference room will be available, free, for non-profits to use.

The other day, McAlinden showed off the space. An entirely new kitchen will enable volunteers — individuals, families, organizations, and Cecily Gans’ Staples High School culinary classes — to not just serve, but also cook, meals.

Clients can use it too, to learn or improve their cooking skills.

Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden, in the new kitchen …

An ADA-compliant bathroom means that people with disabilities can shower and take care of themselves too.

An isolation room is available for clients who get sick. When not in use, it can be used for extra beds.

The men’s dorm has been split into 2 rooms. The result is more privacy — and light.

The women’s shelter now shares a hallway with the men’s. Previously, women had to leave the kitchen or community room and walk outside, to a separate entrance.

The second floor food pantry — open to the public — is now served by a dumbwatier. “No more hauling sacks of potatoes up the stairs!” McAlinden explains.

… and food pantry …

The pantry will have have a refrigerator and freezer, allowing it to store milk, cheese, eggs and meat.

There’s space too for toiletries, like toothpaste and soap.

The refrigerator and toiletries have been some of the most popular features of the temporary pantry at Sasco Creek Village. It’s been a great success, since moving there in May.

But McAlinden looks forward to getting the pantry back under the Gillespie roof. And the Westport Housing Authority, which oversees Sasco Creek Village near the Southport line, will be happy to get its community room back.

“This is an unbelievable, state-of-the-art facility,” says McAlinden proudly. The bulk of the funding caem from a federal Department of Housing ARPA grant. An anonymous gift paid for the dormer conference room that will be used by any non-profit that needs it.

… and outside the entrance. (Photos/Dan Woog)

Westport Department of Human Services director Elaine Daignault played a key role in the project. She wrote the grant, coordinated efforts with the town, and managed the project with McAlinden.

“So many people have been so supportive,” McAlinden notes.

Final construction, including wiring, plumbing, floorng and painting, is underway now. Beds will be delivered soon. Clients are expected to move back in before Christmas.

The Gillespie Center — and Homes with Hope — continue to be the gift that keeps on giving.

(“06880” covers every aspect of Westport life. If you appreciate our 24/7/365 work, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Categories, Downtown, Economy, Local politics

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Pics Of The Day #2784

Posted on December 2, 2024 | 6 comments

After 25 beautiful years, Al DiGuido and Al’s Angels could no longer light the Cribari Bridge.

No problem!

A townwide effort — including, among many others, the Selectwoman’s office; Westport Fire, Police and Public Works; Penna & Sons Construction; Westport PAL — brought lights to the span, in lightning time.

Helping hands, last night. (Photo/David Moore)

A large crowd turned out tonight, for a brief ceremony.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

Kids counted down. The switch was thrown. Another holiday season “officially” began. 

And — this really was a special moment — a few snowflakes fell.

Before the photos, let’s enjoy a special Drone of the Day, courtesy of the great John Videler:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

A happy Westport family. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The view across the river, from Wakeman Place (Photo/Margot Simmons)

(Drone photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

Westport PAL’s Craig Bergamo (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

From left: Vincent Penna, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, RTM member Kristin Mott Purcell, Westport PAL president Craig Bergamo (holding a toy, donated to the PAL collection). (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

Vincent Penna and Police Chief Foti Koskinas (Photo/Dan Woog)

Volunteers, funders — and the sponsors’ sign. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

(Drone photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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Posted in Pic of the Day, Saugatuck

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“06880” Podcast: Steve Zimmerman

Posted on December 2, 2024 | Comments Off on “06880” Podcast: Steve Zimmerman

Steve Zimmerman has one of the best jobs in town: coordinator of music and visual arts for the Westport Public Schools.

He came here after 25 years as band director at schools in Pennsylvania and Connecticut. He’s been named Connecticut Music Educator of the Year, and of 50 Yale Distinguished Music Educators.

Steve has sung at Carnegie Hall, and performed as a trombonist all over the East. The other day, he added “06880: The Podcast” to his resumé.

Click below, to hear — just a couple of weeks before Staples High School’s 84th annual Candlelight Concert — our wide-ranging conversation.

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Roundup: Cribari Bridge Lighting Tonight, Wheels2U Upgrades, Ukraine Aid Party …

Posted on December 2, 2024 | 4 comments

Westport’s holiday miracle — the less-than-a-week project that ensured the Cribari Bridge will be lit again this year — is nearly complete.

The start of the stringing process, last night. (Photo/Andrea Moore)

The Public Works and Fire Departments, plus AJ Penna & Sons Construction, Kevin Ancker of Riverside Mobil and a corps of volunteers, unboxed, strung and tested hundreds of bulbs last night, on the 135-year-old Saugatuck River span. The Police Department added logistical support.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

The new lights worked perfectly. And tonight, the town celebrates.

The test worked! (Photo/Andrea Moore)

The gala bridge lighting is set for 5 p.m. today (Monday). Everyone 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.

(Photo/Andrea Moore)

PS: Lead sponsors are The Bridge at Saugatuck, Saugatuck Financial and Neat Lending.

Other sponsors include LandTech, Westport PAL, the Colabella family, and our very own “06880” blog.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Wheels2U — Westport Transit District’s on-demand transit program offering $2 shared rides between any Westport address and the town’s 2 train stations — has announced new upgrades.

They include:
● More comfortable vehicles. The new fleet of minivans (many of them wheelchair-accessible) provides a smoother, quieter ride than previous vehicles.
● A “greener” ride. The new vehicles are significantly more fuel-efficient as well.
● Longer hours. Morning service has been expanded by half an hour, from 5:45 to 10:30 a.m. Evening service is 4 to 9:30 p.m. weekdays.
● Improved booking. Users can request rides starting at 5:30 a.m. for a pickup as early as 5:45, and as early as 3:45 p.m. for a 4:00 pickup. They can request rides as late as 10:30 a.m. or 9:30 p.m. too.

The new vehicles are already in operation. They replace the entire old fleet.

Wheels2U new vehicle. (Photo/Rick Jaffe)

 

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Ukraine Aid International — the boots-on-the-ground organization making a difference in that war-torn nation, founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer — is hosting a holiday celebration this Sunday (December 8, 1 to 5 p.m., Redline Restorations, 2475 Fairfield Avenue, Black Rock).

And it’s free!

The afternoon includes antique cars, plus footage from UAI’s latest missions in Ukraine.

It’s a chance to celebrate the perseverance of Ukraine, with food and drink, holiday activities, and creative kids’ crafts.

Click here for details, and to register.

A reminder: Westport is raising $56,000, to ensure that 200 children in our sister city of Lyman can attend a therapeutic camp this winter, away from the horrors of their country’s 3-year war.

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.”

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Before Halloween, our Roundup included a photo of a Bayberry Lane stop sign, at Easton Road.

A very elaborate skeleton dangled beneath the red hexagon.

Bayberry Lane at Easton Road, before Halloween. (Photo/Sandy Rothenberg)

Another holiday is near. An “06880” reader writes:

“Someone has now twice cut down my holiday decorations outside my house. The neighbors and community love it. I get compliments and even ‘thank yous’ from passersby.

“I realize that I may not be allowed to hang stuff on the sign, but making my community happy surpasses that until I’m told by someone with authority that I cannot do it.”

Are private citizens allowed to hang decorations from a stop sign? If they are — or even if they’re not — are other private citizens allowed to take them down? Stay tuned …

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Buffalo Rose — the hot folk/Americana band — returns to Voices Cafe this Saturday (December 7, 8 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).

WFUV’s John Platt calls the sound of the 6-person group “intoxicating,” hailing “the combination of their tight string band rhythm and supple harmonies.”

Voices Cafe concerts offer a choice of coffee-house style seating, tables or individually. Bring your own beverages and snacks; coffee and sweet treats are available for purchase.

Voices Cafe concerts support social justice programs through the UU. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Buffalo Rose

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We’re a day late. But let’s welcome December, “Westport … Naturally” style:

Compo Beach sunrise (Photo/Stephanie Mastocciolo)

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And finally … in honor of the controversial Easton Road sign, at Bayberry Lane (photo above):

(Stop what you’re doing! It takes just a few seconds to click here, and donate to “06880.” We appreciate it — and you get a tax deduction too. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Police, Politics, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Transportation

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The Gift Of Giving

Posted on December 2, 2024 | 11 comments

‘Tis the season to be jolly.

And to give.

Despite high egg prices, this was a good one for many Westporters. As we buy presents for loved ones, friends, and people whose good graces we need to keep, we should also think about helping others.

Give what you can.

(Of course, helping them can also ease our own tax burdens next spring. This is still a great country!)

But who to give to?

Far be it for “06880” to say. So here is a list of some worthy local organizations. Each one has a clickable link 🙂

I know I’ve missed some. Rather than bite my head off (too un-Christmas-y), please mention them in the “Comments” section. I’ll add them to this list.

And please: Keep your suggestions local (southern Fairfield County). There are way too many very worthy national and international groups to include. Thank you!

Animals

Christine’s Critters: Rehabilitation of big birds
Connecticut Humane Society: Westport branch
Save Our Strays: Animal rescue
PAWS: No-kill animal shelter
Red Leash Rescue: Provides refuge, love and care to abandoned, homeless, surrendered or discarded dogs
Rising Starr Horse Rescue: Gives at-risk horses a second chance at life
TAILS: Spaying and neutering
Westport Animal Shelter Advocates: Care, shelter and adoption of homeless dogs
Wildlife in Crisis: Preservation and emergency help

Arts and history

Artists Collective of Westport: Creativity, education, shows, forums and more
Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County: Supporting cultural organizations, artists and creative businesses
Levitt Pavilion: More than 50 nights of free entertainment
MoCA Westport: Exhibitions, concerts, education and more
Music Theatre of Connecticut: Musical theater education for youngsters ages 4 through high school
Remarkable Theater: Providing entertainment and employment for people with disabilities
Weston History & Culture Center: Discovering, collecting and preserving Weston’s heritage
Westport Country Playhouse: 93-year-old cultural institution. They survived a near-death experience this year, and are coming back refreshed and revitalized.
Westport Museum for History & Culture: Exhibits and education
Westport Public Art Collections: Bringing art to schools and public spaces

Community aid

Bridgeport Rescue Mission: Fighting poverty, offering help
Center for Family Justice: Provides services to fight domestic, child and sexual abuse
Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants: Service and advocacy for immigrants, refugees and survivors of human trafficking and torture
Integrated Immigrant & Refugee Services: Resettlement agency
Lifebridge Community Services: Bridgeport youth development behavioral health and family resources organization
Norwalk Hour: Aid to families in need
United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut: Access to food, shelter, transportation and childcare
VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399: Helping veterans, servicemembers and their families
Westport Department of Human Services “We Care”: Many options, including financial help with school supplies and heating costs
Westport PAL: They do it all: college scholarships, youth sports programs, fireworks, ice rink, etc., etc., etc.
Westport Weston Family YMCA: Help in many ways.
Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation: Philanthropic arm of the Westport Fire Department

Community-building

06880: This blog — now a non-profit — sponsors community-wide events. Projects include the Holiday and Summer Strolls, the Lyman Ukraine sister city project, helping sponsor the Cribari Bridge lights, and collaborations with the Westport Library. “06880” also publishes this daily blog, to help create community.

Disabilities

Catch a Lift: Westport supports veterans through fitness programs
Circle of Friends: Teens work with children with disabilities
CLASP: Group homes and opportunities
Club203: Provides fun, engaging activities for adults with disabilities
MyTEAM Triumph:  Road race support for children, adults and veterans
New Canaan Mounted Troop: Youth development and therapeutic equestrian center serving children and adults with disabilities, and giving horses a second chance
STAR Lighting the Way: Support for all ages
Sweet P Bakery: Provides jobs for adults with learning disabilities; supplies The Porch at Christie’s with delicious baked goods

Education and youth

A Better Chance of Westport: Education and support for outstanding minority boys
Achievement First: Schools provide Bridgeport families of color with a high- quality education at no cost
Adam J. Lewis Academy: High-quality experience for Bridgeport youngsters
Carver Foundation: K-12 pre- and after-school programs in Norwalk
Center for Children’s Advocacy: Legal aid for education, healthcare, housing and the juvenile justice system
Child Advocates of SW Connecticut: Providing advocates for abused children
Child & Family Guidance Center: Counseling and support for youth and families
Kids in Crisis: 24-hour support, including emergency housing and crisis counseling
Neighborhood Studios: Arts education for Bridgeport youngsters
Piston Foundation: Helping young people acquire the education and hands-on training to build a career in the collector car industry, through trade school scholarships, apprenticeships and advocacy
Ralphola Taylor Community Center: Bridgeport organization offers leadership development, educational workshops, field trips; holiday store rewards youngsters for good behavior — they “buy” gifts (for points) for their families
Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities: Helping fulfill potential; support for parents too
Staples Tuition Grants: Need-based scholarships for Staples High School students and alumni
The Susan Fund: Scholarships for young people affected by cancer
Wakeman Boys & Girls Club: Southport organization serving area youth in a variety of academic, athletic and social ways
Walter Luckett Foundation: Mentorship, test preparation, STEAM, job prep for Bridgeport youth; partner with Westport Library

Environment

Aspetuck Land Trust: Preserving open space; maintaining 45 preserves
Connecticut Audubon Society: Protecting birds, other wildlife, and their habitats through conservation, education and advocacy
Earthplace: Education, wildlife exhibits, and a 62-acre sanctuary
Friends of Sherwood Island: Preserving, maintaining and enhancing our state park
Lachat Town Farm: Offering environmental education and cultural experiences for all ages in Weston
Norwalk River Valley Trail: Maintaining 30 miles of open space 
Save the Sound: Protecting Long Island Sound
Sustainable Westport: Helping our town become Net Zero by 2050
Wakeman Town Farm: Sustainability center, with plenty of programs
Westport Farmers’ Market: Food, education, programs and more

Food and shelter

Filling in the Blanks: Providing weekend meals for children in need
Food Rescue US: Helping volunteers pick up and deliver excess food
Homes with Hope: Supportive housing, food pantry, food distribution and more
Open Doors Shelter: Aiding Norwalkers in need
Person-to-Person: Food, rent help, clothing and more

Grant-giving and foundations

100 Women Who  Care of Fairfield County: Raising funds to give them away!
Fairfield County Foundation: Philanthropy to strengthen communities
Near and Far Aid: Fighting poverty in Fairfield County
Newman’s Own: Okay, they’re global — but they’re headquartered in Westport!
Westport Rotary: Noontime chapter meeting of Rotary International
Westport Sunrise Rotary: 7:30 a.m. chapter meeting of Rotary International
Westport Woman’s Club: Raising funds for charitable, educational, cultural and public health services
Westport Young Woman’s League: Building community through volunteerism and social activities

Health and Safety

Al’s Angels: Help for children and families battling diseases and hardships
Breast Cancer Emergency Aid Foundation: Funds for non-medical expenses
Domestic Violence Crisis Center: Help for victims and families
Fairfield County House: End-of -life facility, providing hospice and palliative care in a home-like setting
In a Heartbeat: Cardiac screening for youngsters
Mission: Helping survivors create lives after cancer
Pink Aid: Financial aid and services to woman and families facing breast cancer
Rach’s Hope: Addressing the challenges families face during and after a child’s critical illness, requiring an extended stay in intensive care
Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service: Providing staffing, supplies and apparatus to keep the town safe

LGBTQ+

PROUD Academy: New school for LGBTQ+ students and allies, proving a safe, affirming learning community
Triangle Community Center: Providing programs and resources for the LGBTQ+ community
Westport Pride: Our town’s own LGBTQ+ organization — sponsors of the June festival, and much more

Literacy

Mercy Learning Center: Life skills training for low-income women
Read to Grow: Promoting children’s literacy from birth, supporting parents as babies’ first teachers
Westport Book Sales: Providing employment for people with disabilities — and offering books, while providing funds for the Westport Library
Westport Library: They do it all!

Mental health and addiction 

Laurel House: Mental health and recovery resources
Positive Directions: Treatment and prevention for addictive behaviors

Seniors

Friends of the Westport Center for Senior Activities: Support for the Senior Center (below)
Mozaic Senior Life: Skilled nursing and other care
Westport Center for Senior Activities: Senior Center provides programs, meals and more

Sister City

Ukraine Aid International: Founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer, UAI ensures that donations go directly to Westport’s sister city of Lyman, Ukraine. Our current drive is to provide a therapeutic camp experience to the children of Lyman, who have been displaced from their homes close to the front lines. Click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)

Women and girls

AWARE: “Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education”
Dress for Success Mid-Fairfield County: Empowering women by providing professional clothes and other support
LiveGirl: Leadership development and mentoring for females, grades 5 through college
Malta House: Shelter and programs for young pregnant women and their babies

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Pic Of The Day #2783

Posted on December 1, 2024 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #2783

Long Island Sound (Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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Posted in Beach, Pic of the Day

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