Roundup: Fashionably Westport, Cops, 3 Presidents …

Posted on March 29, 2024 | 10 comments

Hundreds of Westporters mingled, sipped cocktails, nibbled on light bites, listened to jazz, bid on auction items, and watched dozens of neighbors walk the Westport Library runway last night.

“Fashionably Westport” is one of the town’s hottest tickets. The annual Westport Downtown Association event is a fundraiser for Homes with Hope.

MC Dave Briggs and runway director Carey Price kept things lively.

A full day of in-store activities follows today (Friday, March 29).

Seen on the runway: 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker …

… Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella …

… and a host of other models. MC Dave Briggs is at right. (Photos/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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When it comes to watching — and understanding — a solar eclipse, most of us are, well, in the dark.

The always-helpful folks at the Westport Astronomical Society can help.

For the April 8 event, Westport Observatory volunteers will bring telescopes and safety gear to the Westport Library’s upper parking lot (near the Levitt Pavilion).

Peak eclipse is at 3:26 p.m., when the sun in Westport will be 90.7% obscured.

The next partial solar eclipses aren’t until 2028 and 2029 — and they won’t obscure the sun anywhere near what we’ll see next month.

For that, you’ll have to wait until the total solar eclipse on the morning of May 1, 2079.

 Partial solar eclipse.

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There are a thousand reasons to appreciate and admire our Westport Police Department.

Here’s reason 1,001.

Next Thursday (April 4, 5 to 9 p.m.), officers will “work” with the wait staff at Rizzuto’s restaurant. Customers are encouraged to leave extra tips. They’ll all go to Special Olympics Connecticut.

Our police are known as Westport’s finest. Thanks to the force, Rizzuto’s and Special Olympics, for this very “fine” idea.

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Music and Women’s History Month are the themes of 4 new art exhibits at the Westport Library.

“Thinking Inside the Box” on the main level is an idea put forward by artist and author Melissa Newman. 21 artists from around the area created multi-dimensional works.

In the Sheffer Gallery, Marlene Siff’s “Finely Tuned” features 5 large dimensional paintings named for, and linked to, a specific expression found in music, along with several maquettes she created prior to construction of the final pieces. Visitors to the gallery can scan a QR code next to each piece and listen to the musical selections that inspired her. Finely Tuned runs through June 10, with a reception and artist talk moderated by Miggs Burroughs on May 5 (2 p.m.).

Also running through June 10 is Camille Eskell’s exhibit, “Scheherazade: Storyteller.” Eskell’s reception and talk is on Wednesday (6 p.m.). Eskell’s digital photo-based collages incorporate textiles such as saris, hand-made paper, cast sculpture, trims, jewels, and more, to explore self-perception, societal attitudes, and psychological states related to gender bias.

Rounding out the new exhibits is “Art of the Album: And All That Jazz,” album covers from the collection of Ellen and Mark Naftalin, displayed in the Jesup Gallery. It features album covers of some of the pioneering jazz musicians who changed the face and sound of American music forever.

From left: Camille Eskell, Marlene Siff, Mark Naftalin.

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David Meth went to the transfer station the other day. The amount of trash in one gigantic vehicle stunned him.

He watched in awe as it disgorged its garbage. It took a long time.

As the truck unloaded and the pit filled, David took some photos.

“06880” often posts beautiful shots, of gorgeous Westport.

These are a bit different. But they too provide an important look into who we are.

Beginning …

middle …

… and end. (Photos/David Meth)

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Westport loves our ospreys.

But as we look at these magnificent raptors, it’s easy to forget that they survive by preying on other creatures.

The other day, one of our Fresh Market ospreys dined out on a good-sized flounder. Ospreys have a keen eye for detecting prey from afar, sharp talons for killing, and powerful beaks for tearing flesh.

That’s today’s  “Westport … Naturally” nature lesson.

(Photo/Mark Laclair)

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And finally … I was at the “3 Presidents” event at Radio City Music Hall last night. Joe Biden, Barack Obama and Bill Clinton were interviewed by Stephen Colbert.

It was a remarkable evening.

The 3 US presidents discussed the state of America and the world. They looked back at history, and forward to November.

They were interrupted several times by protestors, angry about Biden’s policies in the Middle East. “Let them speak,” he said.

Obama took a stronger tone: “You can’t just talk, and not listen. The world is complicated. It’s hard to solve these problems.”

There were speeches too by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and First Lady Jill Biden.

Plus — and this is where this feature is heading — entertainment. The list included Queen Latifah, Lizzo, Ben Platt, Cynthia Erivo, Lea Michele and Mindy Kaling.

Cynthia Erivo

The only one of those performers I had ever seen live was Ben Platt. I’m sure I would have gone to my grave without imagining seeing any of the others.

But they all slayed.

So — in keeping with our traditional end-of-Roundup musical salutes — enjoy:

(“06880” is indeed “where Westport meets the world.” Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Library, Police, Politics

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Homes With Hope: 40 Years Of Helping

Posted on March 29, 2024 | 2 comments

For a place as contentious as Westport — some folks opposed building a playground at Compo, and half the town thought building a nuclear power plant on Cockenoe Island was just ducky — you’d think putting a homeless shelter in the heart of downtown would ignite World War III.

But you would be wrong.

As Homes with Hope prepares to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Gillespie Center on April 9 with a video and reception, it’s a great time to look back on the origins of one of the first shelters in a suburban town, anywhere in the US.

Sure, there was a bit of debate about the opening of Westport’s first homeless shelter in 1984, at the former Vigilant firehouse (where OKO restaurant is now, in the parking lot between Bartaco and National Hall).

The Vigilant Firehouse on Wilton Road, circa 1977. In 1984, it became the town’s first men’s shelter.

But the moral leadership of Reverend Pete Powell, Reverend Ted Hoskins, Rabbi Bob Orkand and businessman James Bacharach, plus town support from 1st selectman Bill Seiden, human services director Barbara Butler and David Kennedy, tamped much of the controversy.

A few years later, as Arthur Tauck redeveloped National Hall into an inn, moving to Jesup Road — catty-corner from the police station — made sense.

Many hands helped make the new 15-bed home possible. (The toilets were rescued from a Beachside Avenue home that Phil Donohue was razing.)

A 5-bed facility for women — now called Hoskins Place — was built next to the men’s shelter, when the Westport Transit District office moved.

Over the years, the Gillespie Center’s conversion from a beat-up old maintenance shed behind what was then the Fine Arts Theater (now Barnes & Noble) to a well-maintained shelter has enhanced the look of the entire area.

The Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place — Westport’s men’s and women’s shelters. (Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

Less visible is what goes on inside. But the men and women who seek shelter there — and others who use the very active food pantry — know and appreciate the hard work and tremendous care given by Homes with Hope to many in town over the past 40 years.

For 4 decades the Gillespie Center — the name honors Jim Gillespie, the 1st president of Homes with Hope (then called the Interfaith Housing Association) — has provided housing, meals and hope to thousands of men and women.

And many more Westporters than that have contributed food, setup and cleanup help, equipment and funds to keep that hope alive.

Dolores Bacharach and Pete Powell reminisce about the early years of the Gillespie Center.

Several years ago, Dolores Bacharach and Rev. Pete Powell reminisced about the early days of what is now Homes with Hope. Both are featured in the new video, to be shown April 9.

Homes With Hope has grown significantly since 1984. In addition to emergency shelter for men and women, and the community kitchen and food pantry, today the non-profit agency provide supportive housing for individuals and families, rapid re-housing, diversion services, youth development programs na mentoring.

The staff develops individualized case management plans with sustainable solutions, so clients can achieve and maintain independent lives

If you’re looking for controversy — or a story about an affluent suburb that shunned its homeless — stay away from the Gillespie Center. You won’t find it there.

All you’ll see are beds, meals, and Westport’s support for our fellow humans, down on their luck.

(The April 9 celebration of Homes with Hope’s 40 years features a documentary film by Livio Sanchez, including interviews with some of the founders. For more details, contact CEO Helen McAlinden: hmcalinden@hwhct.org.)

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Pic Of The Day #2536

Posted on March 28, 2024 | 1 comment

Willowbrook Cemetery (Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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Roundup: Soundview Summer Stroll, Plant Sale, Eric Clapton …

Posted on March 28, 2024 | 1 comment

A great new summer event has just been added to Westport’s calendar.

On Sunday, July 28, Soundview Drive will be closed to vehicles. The beach exit road will turn into a street fair, with live music, kids’ activities (face painting, balloon artists, etc.), food, fun and more.

The first annual “Soundview Summer Stroll” is a collaboration between “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association.

We’re throwing a party. And the entire town is invited!

The idea came from the July 4th fireworks, when vehicular traffic is prohibited starting in late afternoon.

“06880” wondered: Why not celebrate summer the same way another day too?

Compo residents Sunil Hirani and Kristin Mott Purcell loved the concept, and got the ball rolling. The Parks & Recreation Department and Police offered their insights and ideas.

Yesterday morning, the Board of Selectwomen approved the idea unanimously.

More details will be announced soon. For now: Get ready to stroll!

Soundview Drive before the fireworks. On July 28, it will again be closed to traffic, for the “Summer Stroll.” (Photo/Diane Yormark)

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Put this on your calendar too: the Westport Garden Club‘s annual plant sale.

It’s May 11, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Jesup Green). In addition to home-grown perennials, native plants, vegetables and herbs, there are Mother’s Day garden-themed gifts, creative planters, baked goods and fresh bouquets.

Last year, the Garden Club moved the long-running event from Friday to Saturday. That drew a whole new crowd of families.

This is the 100th anniversary of the Westport Garden Club. It’s also the “Year of the Peony,” so there will be plenty of those flowers for sale too.

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The state Department of Transportation will hold a virtual meeting April 16 (7 p.m.), to provide information on the proposed rehabilitation of the Saugatuck railroad bridge.

Work would include the mechanical and electrical systems responsible for lifting and lowering the span. Construction is expected to begin the fall of 2025.

Click here to register for the meeting. Click here for the YouTube livestream.

Railroad bridge over the Saugatuck River. (Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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Dartmouth College just received a huge gift: $150 million, from the estate of Glenn Britt. The former president and CEO of Time Warner Cable died in 2014; his wife Barbara passed away last year.

Both lived for many years on Long Lots Road, in the house once owned by Harry Reasoner — and before that, Nat and Lee  Greenberg (who rented it one year to Elizabeth Taylor). In Westport, the Britts were very generous supporters of Earthplace.

The bequest — the largest dedicated entirely to scholarship in Dartmouth’s history — will enable it to raise its annual family income threshold for a “zero parent contribution” for undergraduates from $65,000 to $125,000, Forbes says.

Glenn Britt graduated magna cum laude from Dartmouth, with a degree in economics. He also received an MBA from Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business.

About 350 undergraduates  will receive the new Britt Scholarships. Click here for the full Forbes story. (Hat tip: Joan Gillman)

Glenn Britt

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“Burst-Goldtop Believers” — a Facebook group dedicated to guitar aficionados — celebrated yesterday’s 56th anniversary of Cream’s Staples High School concert with this post about Eric Clapton (he was playing a Goldtop).

Comments ranged from “the guitar is a 56 because of that bridge” to “Westport, where?”

Eric Clapton with Cream, at Staples: March 27, 1968.

Elsewhere on Facebook — “Remembering Concerts at the Pinecrest & Other Fairfield County venues” — Matthew Mandell spotted this post:

For more on that concert — and many other bands that played at Staples in the 1960s and ’70s — click here.

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“Fashionably Westport” hits the runway tonight at the Westport Library. The event benefits Homes with Hope.

No ticket? No problem! The silent auction is on now. Click here to see — and bid on — a wide variety of items.

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Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests between March 20 and 27.

A man was charged with violation of a protective order, following a domestic disturbance.

Another man was arrested for disorderly conduct, following a domestic disturbance in which the victim was pushed, striking their head on a radiator.

A man was charged with larceny, after a shoplifting complaint from HomeGoods.

“06880” previously reported the arrest of a man for reckless driving, engaging police in pursuit, resisting arrest, burglary and larceny, and conspiracy to commit burglary and larceny, following a motor vehicle theft in the Compo Beach area. Two juveniles were also involved in that incident.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 9 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 4
  • Failure to obey state traffic control signals: 3
  • Speeding: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to display lights: 1
  • Failure to return license plates: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Larceny: 1
  • Possession of a vicious dog: 1

Possession of a vicious dog is a misdemeanor. Angela Simpson’s print does not show a vicious dog.

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Speaking of guitarists: Unforeseen circumstances have forced the postponement of Jon Gailmor’s songwriting workshop at the Weston History & Culture Center.

Jon sends his regrets to young musicians in the area, and hopes to reschedule soon.

Jon Gailmor

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A few spots remain for La Plage’s 3-course prix fixe Easter menu.

Click here for the menu. The price is $95 per person, $55 for young adults. Reservations are required: 203-684-6232.

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Former Westporter David Feliciano died earlier this month in Florida. He was 75, and had been in hospice care.

The native of Puerto Rico had a career in law enforcement.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years Lorraine, and son Brian; sister Claire Beam; grandchildren Amanda (Hamilton) and Christopher, and great-grandchild Carter. He was predeceased by his grandson David.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Naples, Florida on April 3 (10 a.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

David Feliciano

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The birds are back!

This one took a rest from building a nest in one of Laurie Sorensen’s trees, to pose for a “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

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And finally … although there is no video of Cream’s 1968 concert at Staples (story above), there is this:

(“06880” is the cream of hyper-local blogs. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Beach, Education, Entertainment, Environment, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants

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A Shark Ate Elyse Oleksak’s Bagel

Posted on March 28, 2024 | 2 comments

Between Popup and Badass, Westport may be the bagel capital of the world.

Adam Goldberg’s Popup won “Best Bagel” awards at the prestigious Brooklyn Bagelfest — 2 years in a row.

Jennifer Balin’s Badass beauties draw drooling crowds at the Westport Farmer’s Market.

But our town is also home to a third bagel maven: Elyse Oleksak.

She and her husband Nick are the founders and brains behind Bantam Bagels. The company — making and selling bite-sized bagels stuffed with cream cheese and other fillings — exploded after they appeared on “Shark Tank.”

Elyse and Nick Oleksak.

Lori Greiner outbid Barbara Corcoran with a $275,000 offer, for 25% equity. The rest is history.

But history, of course, can be messy.

The night the “Shark Tank “episode aired on ABC, Elyse and Nick watched with friends in a West Village bar.

They were elated, when their laptops showed traffic spiking within seconds.

A very pregnant Elyse Oleksak, and Nick, on “Shark Tank.”

Suddenly though, their website crashed. They had done everything they could to test it beforehand — but the company they hired had done its work right.

Fleeing to a nearby 24-hour CVS, the couple worked to salvage the cascading orders — and Bantam Bagels’ reputation.

That’s just one of the stories included in “A Shark Ate My Bagel,” Elyse’s just-published memoir.

She launched it the other day at a Sorelle Gallery party.

Elyse and Nick Oleksak, and 2 of their children, at the Sorelle Gallery book launch. It was past bedtime for their 6-month-old.

It was a hometown event. For the last 7 years Elyse, Nick and their 3 young children have lived in Westport.

That too is part of the Bantam Bagels story.

Once the show aired in January 2015, the New York couple realized they could work from anywhere. Their toddler son suffered from pneumonia and lung problems, so they wanted to get out of the city.

The idea of grass and water was appealing. They knew no one here — Elyse, who grew up outside of Boston, had never heard of Westport — but from the start, they loved the town.

In 2018, they sold Bantam Bagels to the T. Marzetti Company for $34 million. They stayed on with the company they founded, and loved, in management and creative capacities.

When COVID hit, sales skyrocketed. People loved Bantam offerings like an everything bagel filled with veggie cream, a cinnamon and nutmeg-spiced egg bagel filled with maple syrup and butter-flavored cream cheese, and product extensions including stuffed pancake bites and pizzas.

Bantam Bagels: a small sampling.

But suddenly the supply chain locked up. Big customers like Starbucks and grocery store chains streamlined their selections.

It was the beginning of the end for Bantam Bagels. In May of 2022 Lancaster Colony — the parent company of T. Marzetti — closed the brand.

That’s when Elyse decided to write her book.

“Now that I have the forest-over-the-trees view, I wanted to tell the story,” she says.

“The undulations of successes and failures — that’s life.”

Elyse Oleksak reads from her book, at the Sorelle Gallery launch.

Writing the book was therapeutic. She relived the lightning-fast years in which she and Nick started, and grew, their company.

They had no down time, no weekends off. Meanwhile, Nick was still working at his day job, in investment banking. (Elyse had a Wall Street background too.)

It was a whirlwind few years, which Elyse wanted to convey to readers. To do it  right, she needed readers to connect viscerally with what it was like to build a company from scratch.

She read other memoirs — by businesspeople, actors, chefs, Prince Harry — to learn how to resonate with readers.

“This is not just a how-to business book,” Elyse says. “I wanted raw emotion, to bring people along on my journey.”

As an entrepreneur, self-publishing made sense. She was eager to market her book, and herself. Once again, she is in her go-go, problem-solving, put-it-out-there element.

Of course, marketing a book is different from marketing a bagel.

“I knew our bagels tasted amazing,” Elyse says. “I’m less sure of this product. Writing a book is incredibly personal. I’m more nervous about this.”

This time too, she notes, it’s not money that’s on the line. It’s her sense of self.

As she markets “A Shark Ate My Bagel,” Nick is busy too.

Before Columbia University (where he played baseball and met Elyse, a varsity lacrosse player), he grew up on a farm, and worked in a factory.

He always loved working with his hands. So after leaving Wall Street and Bantam Bagels, he started his own real estate company. He does much of the construction himself.

So what does the bagel company founder/bagel book author think about the Westport bagel scene?

“Nick and I were not bagel snobs. We just loved bagels. We ate all kinds,” she says.

“I love Popup’s creativity. But I love classic Village Bagels too. And Gold’s!

“Actually, I’ll eat anyone’s bagels.”

But — this being Westport — there’s a 1-degree-of-separation twist to every story.

Here’s hers: Adam Goldberg — the founder of Popup Bagels — is a prior owner of the home where Bantam Bagels’ Elyse and Nick Oleksak live now.

“There must be something in the water,” she says.

(From soup to nuts — and of course, bagels — “06880” covers Westport’s business and culinary scenes. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Media, Restaurants

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Pics Of The Day #2535

Posted on March 27, 2024 | 8 comments

A rainbow appeared over Westport tonight.

“06880” was flooded with photos. Here are few:

Harbor Road (Photo/M Fortuna)

Riverside Avenue (Photo/Jodie Brooke Aujla)

Saugatuck River (Photo/Alexis Donnerstag)

Old Hill (Photo/Lisa Hofmeister)

Sherwood Mill Pond (Photo/James White)

Nash’s Pond (Photo/Tricia Summers)

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Remembering Bill Briggs

Posted on March 27, 2024 | 7 comments

Bill Briggs — the 1964 Staples High School graduate, car aficionado and keyboardist with the Remains, the band (with Staples alum Barry Tashian) that developed a cult following that remains strong today, and opened for the Beatles on their final, 1966 tour — died yesterday.

He turned 78 a few days ago, and suffered from multiple health issues.

Bill Briggs

His daughter Jen posted on Facebook:

As you all know, my dad was quite the rock star in more ways than one. Bill could build a hot rod in his garage to drag race in the desert, he played the blues and toured with the Beatles playing keyboard and harmonica with the The Remains in the 60s, was a damn fine Porsche/Audi salesman for many years, an avid train photographer, collage artist, patient advice giver, along with one of the most hip rock and roll dads you’ll ever meet.

Bill Briggs (far left) and fellow Remains Chip Damiani, Barry Tashian and Chip Vern Miller.

My brother Jake and I will miss him so much, along with his partner Barbara Simon and his extended family.

We will have a small gathering for my dad near Boston at some point soon. Yesterday, he requested we join in on singing “Knockin on Heaven’s Door” with the music therapist. He chimed in clearly, singing, “put my guns in the ground!”

Miss your sense of humor and understanding already, Dad.

Bill Briggs, George Harrison, and Beatles tour manager Neil Aspinall on tour in August, 1966. (Photo/Bob Bonis)

Tributes poured in, from fans and friends from Bill’s many stages of life.

Remains guitarist Vern Miller wrote:

I can’t even begin to express how shattered I feel with Bill’s passing. We played together in The Remains for 57 years and were friends for almost 60 years. We toured together all over the U.S and Europe and shared so many adventures like the 66 Beatles’ tour.

Just last week we were clowning around on the phone about that great band in the sky. I told him if he gets there before I do, please make sure they know what kind of bass amp I want.

Bill, in his inevitable way of not missing a beat, quickly asked me where I wanted it placed on stage. He kept his humor right up to the end.

Michael Haydn recalled playing with Bill in the Westport band the New Schemers, in 9th through 12th grade.

Tom Hatch remembered working on cars with Bill, in the Downshifters hot rod club.

I was a Remains fan from junior high on. I felt so fortunate to get to know Bill later, as a friend.

In 1966, the Remains played a Staples High School fundraiser for the Orphenians’ upcoming trip to the Virgin Islands. Staples grads Bill Briggs (right) and Barry Tashian flanked the school’s music director and Orphenians founder John Ohanian. 

One of the true highlights of my life came about 20 years ago, in the basement of Gail and Terry Coen’s Soundview Drive home.

The Remains got together for the first time in about 30 years. They had been “rediscovered” in Europe, and were ready to embark on an overseas tour.

I was there at the first rehearsal, the moment they started playing and singing again. Their joy at being together again — and the sheer, incredible power of their musical talent — was astonishing, and overwhelming.

The Remains in 2019. From left: Chip Damiani, Barry Tashian, Bill Briggs, Vern Miller. 

Bill was an “06880” fan, always interested in his hometown, and the people he grew up with here.

In the mid-’60s, rock critic Jon Landau — channeling John Sebastian — said the Remains were “how you told a stranger about rock ‘n’ roll.”

Today, Bill Briggs’ many admirers remember him, and his magic.

Click below to enjoy some of the greatest rock music of all time.

 

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Unsung Hero #328

Posted on March 27, 2024 | 7 comments

Margaret Pinheiro Smith retired earlier this month, after 24 years as administrative assistant at Westport’s Department of Human Services.

Today, her colleagues and friends are honoring her at a luncheon.

Today too, “06880” recognizes Margaret as this week’s Unsung Hero.

Margaret Pinheiro Smith

Human Services director Elaine Daignault says: “Margaret started working for the department in 1999. During her many years here, she has gone above and beyond to serve Westport residents, while selflessly supporting colleagues and Human Services partners.

“A key contributor across Town Hall, the Senior Center and Toquet Hall, Margaret was loved for her empathetic and kind nature.

“She was the perfect person to greet residents entering our offices. She always had a smile and made sure people felt seen and heard, regardless of the reason for their visit.

“Margaret has become such a fixture in the department that many calls from clients were just friendly check-ins to see how she was doing, and to provide an update on their lives. She was the go-to gal for information, an ear, or a favor.

“When weather threatened our most vulnerable residents, Margaret went into full crisis support mode, updating our registries and calling those who live alone or have special needs. she maintained our ‘We Do Walkways’ list for seniors needing outdoor work. When a senior resident needed a quick snow clearing to get to a doctor’s appointment, Margaret immediately ‘ran out for lunch’ to shovel them out.

“Once, a senior called because she needed bottled water. True to Margaret’s spirit, she went to the grocery store to deliver a supply.

“Another time, a senior accidentally ordered 10 gallons of milk instead of one. Margaret promptly offered to pick up the extras, and helped distribute them to other households and food pantries before they expired.

“She does these things not because they are in her job description (they certainly are not!), but because she genuinely cares for others without exception.

Margaret Pinheiro Smith at her desk. She spent plenty of time working outside the office too.

“During Hurricane Sandy, Margaret (along with several other dedicated employees) ran the emergency shelter for 10 straight days. I am not sure she went home to rest during that time. Instead, she stayed on site to ensure the check-in, food service and nighttime procedures went smoothly, especially for our senior population.

“Margaret always ran ahead of the team to check venues for warming and cooling centers, bringing her cell and laptop so she would not miss a call at the front desk.

“Margaret was a huge asset and workhorse during the pandemic. She was the first to arrive cheerfully at the office each morning. Constantly thinking about what we could do to help ease the intense uncertainty of the moment, she helped coordinate the distribution of masks, COVID tests and food with her social services and emergency management colleagues. She also spent time at distribution sites to help coordinate meal distributions.

“In addition to her ‘day job, Margaret was a staple at the special weekend and evening events held by the Friends of the Senior Center. She selflessly dedicated her time to help run these events, and dazzled guests with her good nature and willingness to pitch in.

“Margaret was a Human Services ‘den mom’ – always looking out for the department to ensure everyone had what they needed, while adding special touches that make our department so beloved.

“Unafraid of hard work, she would lift heavy boxes, wipe down conference room tables, vacuum the office, de-ice the staff refrigerator and stock the staff kitchenette. No one ever had to ask Margaret to do something to support her team; she would see a need and attend to the task. She is a natural caregiver to others.

Human Services director Elaine Daignault (2nd from left), Margaret Pinheiro Smith (3rd from left), and the “Room 200 crew.”

“As the primary contact for the Westport Woman’s Club food pantry, Margaret called in orders. The generous food pantry team delivered food to Town Hall, where she helped unload groceries for clients to pick up. When recipients arrived, she helped load the food into their cars, to ensure anonymity of those needing food resources.

“Margaret dedicated 2 1/2 decades to the town. We will miss her daily presence, but what is unique about her is that her service was more than a job. It was her calling. Her dedication to her friends, colleagues and residents will not stop due to retirement. She will continue to serve and spread her light. It is in her nature to look after those she cares about.

Margaret Pinheiro Smith, with Larry Delaney. Like many clients, he became a great friend.

“On a personal level, I am so blessed to call Margaret a treasured friend and trusted colleague.

“We both joined Human Services in 1999. We have literally ‘grown up’ under the guidance and support of long-time Westport icons like Barbara Butler and Sue Pfister, among many others, including Terry Giegengack, Fran Reynolds, and countless other mentors who made our department what it is today.

Margaret is one of the last ‘old timers’ from those tremendous years of growth and development. She taught me so much about selfless leadership and humble service to others. We will miss seeing her at Town Hall every day, but her positive energy has forever changed us, and we know she is just a call away when needed.”

(Thanks to Lynn Goldberg, for nominating Margaret Pinheiro Smith as this week’s Unsung Hero. If you know a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com.)

(Unsung Hero is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!

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Roundup: Age Of Reason, Alisyn Camerota, Vote! …

Posted on March 27, 2024 | 5 comments

Age of Reason — Westport’s oldest toy store — will soon sell its last puzzle, game and science set.

The Post Road West shop closes soon. Owner Nina Berger cited “personal and business reasons” for the decision. Age of Reason celebrated its 40th anniversary in October.

All items are 30% off. The final day is April 30, or earlier if all the inventory is sold.

Age of Reason was my go-to toy store, for many reasons. It’s locally owned; it’s filled with educational, expand-kids’-minds items, not mindless junk; and Nina and her staff always knew exactly the right gift for my nephews, nieces and friends’ newborn babies — no matter how vague my descriptions of them.

Thanks, Nina, for your 40 years of brightening Westporters’ (and their children’s) minds. Best wishes with whatever comes next. (Hat tip: Jonathan Hack)

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CNN anchor, author and Westport resident Alisyn Camerota launches her new memoir, “Combat Love,” at the Westport Library tonight (Wednesday, March 27, 7 p.m.).

She’ll chat with memoirist (and fellow Westporter) Gabi Coatsworth about her story of growing up longing for stability and attachment, as the foundation of her family crumbled.

“Combat Love” chronicles Camerota’s youth in the 1980s, her relationship with a punk rock band, and her misadventures at clubs like CBGB and Max’s Kansas City, coupled with the sex, drugs, and punk rock of 1980s New Jersey.

Tonight is the first of two appearances for Camerota at the Library. The two-time Emmy Award winner returns Saturday, April 6, for VersoFest 2024. She’ll lead a  conversation with Doors drummer John Densmore about his book, The Doors Unhinged: Jim Morrison’s Legacy Goes on Trial.

Alisyn Camerota

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Connecticut’s first-ever early voting began yesterday, for the state’s Democratic and Republican presidential primaries.

129 Westporters — 105 Democrats and 24 Republicans — made history as Westport’s earliest voters. They included 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

All Westporters vote at Town Hall. The usual polling places are not open, as schools are in session.

Early voting continues today and tomorrow, March 27-28 (Town Hall Room 201) and Saturday, March 30 (Town Hall auditorium). Polls are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on those days.

Election Day is Tuesday, April 2 (6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

Republican and Democratic election officials yesterday, at Town Hall. (Photo/Deborah Greenberg)

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It’s impossible to get to every worthwhile Westport fundraiser. And the spring calendar is chock full of them.

But if there’s one you really shouldn’t miss, it’s the Dream Event, for A Better Chance of Westport. For over 20 years, ABC has provided educational opportunities — and a home — to academically gifted, highly motivated young men of color.

It’s a great cause — just like so many others. Our town is filled with wonderful non-profits, doing good in a wide array of ways.

What sets the Dream Event apart are the speeches. Current scholars, and those who have graduated from the program, speak movingly, eloquently and inspirationally about their journeys.

They describe the difficulties of moving to a town like Westport, and a school like Staples; the ups and downs of their 4 years in the program, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

It’s a heartfelt look into America — and an uplifting look into the future.

(Of course, there’s also light bites, cocktails, entertainment, and live and silent auctions.)

This year’s A Better Chance of Westport is April 27 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

Click here for tickets, and more information.

A Better Chance of Westport alumni, at the 2023 Dream Event. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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For decades, Jon Gailmor has entertained, educated and inspired Vermont kids with his unique songwriting workshops.

Now the 1966 Staples High School graduate is coming home, to do it here.

Old School Music Productions presents Gailmor — an official “Extraordinary Vermont” (per the governor) and longtime recording artist — at the Weston History & Culture Center.

The April 6 event includes songwriting sessions for 2nd-5th graders (10 to 11:30 a.m.) and 6th-8th graders (1 to 2:30 p.m.). Students work with Gailmor to find a topic, develop a theme, then create the lyrics, rhythm and melody. The cost is $40 per student. Click here to register.

At 4:30 p.m., the youngsters will perform the songs they wrote, for family, friends and everyone else who enjoys creativity and fun. Gailmor will also perform popular and original tunes. Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for children.

Gailmor received the Mayor’s Peace Prize in Burlington, and was awarded a Silver Citation by the Vermont Arts Council.  He sang as Vermont’s representative at the 25th anniversary of the Kennedy Center in Washington, and in 1996 carried the Olympic Torch through Brattleboro, on its way to Atlanta. To learn more about the legendary Jon Gailmor, click here.

Jon Gailmor, at a kids’ songwriting workshop.

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Speaking of kids: They’re fascinated by police cars, ambulances, cranes, dump trucks, buses, big rigs and fire trucks.

On May 4 (9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot), they’ll get a chance to climb all over — and take photos of — all of them, and more cool vehicles.

The Westport Weston Co-op Nursery School’s 17th annual Touch-a-Truck fundraiser includes other family friendly activities too: magicians, crafts, face painting, food trucks and live music.

Admission is $35 per family. Click here for tickets. Proceeds help fund scholarships, supplies and equipment, and special programs. 

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Right on time last night, Westport’s favorite raptors — 2 ospreys — returned to their nest, near Fresh Market.

And right on time, Westport’s favorite osprey photographer — Carolyn Doan — was there to capture them. (On camera, that is.)

The male arrived first. The female followed. They winter separately in Florida or South America, Carolyn says.

Here are her first spectacular images of the year:

(Photos/Carolyn Doan)

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Looking for a volunteer opportunity? Love Wakeman Town Farm?

Our local sustainability center invites you to a “casual volunteer coffee” on April 8 (10 to 11 a.m.).

Interested in helping with cooking classes? Have a knack for researching and writing grants? Enjoy fundraising or contacting sponsors? How about face painting, working the entry door, or otherwise helping at an event?

Learn about how you can help — without a huge time commitment.

And if you don’t know much about WTF: It’s your chance to learn.

Opportunities galore, at Wakeman Town Farm.

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Jonathan Alloy offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo from Kings Highway North, noting: “It may not feel like it from the weather, but spring has sprung.”

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … we say goodbye to Age of Reason, with this song from The Toys:

(Business, books, birds — all that and more, today and every day, in your hyper-local blog. Please support our work; just click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Local business, Politics

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Tooker, Scarice Address Westport’s $400+ Million Capital Plan

Posted on March 27, 2024 | 10 comments

With more than $400 million in capital spending looming in our budget forecast, what can taxpayers expect?

Town officials say: We’re preparing.

And: We’ve been there before.

Common Ground — the Westport Library’s project to bring civility back to civic discourse — and the League of Women Voters collaborated last night on an educational forum.

Nearly 100 residents heard 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice, Finance Department director Gary Conrad and others discuss a variety of projects and timelines, and their implications for mill rates, bond ratings and more.

Acknowledging the costs associated with — among other things — a new police/fire/EMS facility, the renovation of Longshore and downtown parking lots, and a new Long Lots Elementary School, Tooker said twice that her goal is for the Westport’s mill rate to remain “stable, consistent and competitive.”

She, Conrad and a pair of independent bond advisors said that Westport’s finances have been well managed. Though debt will rise substantially through the mid-2030s, they expressed confidence that prudent, proactive planning will position the town well for the future.

To provide historical perspective, former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe and former RTM moderator Velma Heller began the event — titled “Preparing Westport for Major Capital Spending” — by citing previous large expenses.

In 1960 for example, the town purchased the failing Longshore Country Club for $1.9 million ($20 million, in today’s dollars). The decision — in the face of a 180-home residential development on the property — showed remarkable foresight, Marpe said.

(It also was done “around a dinner table” by 1st Selectman Herb Baldwin, the Board of Finance and other officials — not in open, transparent meetings — Marpe noted wryly.)

In 1959, a developer wanted to buy the failing Longshore Country Club, and built 180 homes on the land. In just 19 days, the town bought it as a municipal club.

Other major expenditures included new schools in the 1950s and ’60s, Baron’s South, and the Senior Center.

The public debt burden ballooned to $200 million. But Westport kept its AAA bond rating — and paid it off with one of the lowest mill rates in Fairfield County.

Tooker noted that in the private sector — where she worked before entering local politics — leaders are rewarded for being “ahead of the curve.” In government, she said, the key is to be neither too early or too late.

It is not an easy needle to thread. Officials constantly ask what a variety of stakeholders want, and if the town can afford it.

She described the 3 major expenses. The $90 million combined first responder facility would replace the 1980s fire headquarters and 1950s police/EMS building.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, with photos of the Saugatuck firehouse, and police headquarters. 

Renovations to Longshore — an asset that attracts newcomers, and serves nearly all residents — would involve racquet sports, the pools, a new golf clubhouse and more, and cost about $40 million. It includes a private partnership with Delamar, which begins renovating the Inn at Longshore next year.

The downtown plan addresses more open space, pedestrian and vehicular safety, and flood mitigation, so that residents and visitors will be encouraged to spend more time shopping, dining and enjoying the Saugatuck River.

Other projects in the 10-year capital plan include sidewalks, bridges, culverts, and equipment like police cars, fire trucks and Public Works vehicles.

The Board of Finance is the first body to approve spending requests. The Representative Town Meeting gives the final okay.

From left: Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Finance director Gary Conrad, and bond advisors Matt Spoerndle, Mike Andreana, and assistant superintendent of schools John Bayers settle in at last night’s forum. Behind them is a list of expected major capital projects. 

Scarice noted that when he arrived in the early days of the 2020 pandemic, Coleytown Middle School had recently closed due to mold. The town wanted “no more surprises” with building maintenance.

Studies showed that Long Lots was at the end of its 70-year-old life. Coleytown Elementary School is getting there, though its condition is not as dire.

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice, with a photo of Long Lots Elementary School.

During COVID, meanwhile, Westport’s school enrollment skyrocketed. Our figures far outpaced those of neighboring suburbs, which have remained stagnant or even decreased. That impacts our schools — along with recreational facilities, emergency services and more.

Private bond counselor Mike Andreana said that many towns rely only on 5-year capital forecasts. That is “more reactive,” he said. “Thinking 10 years out is fantastic.”

The panel, with a chart showing Westport’s past and projected debt, from 2001 through 2037. (Photos/Dan Woog)

So what does it all mean for the mill rate?

That is set after looking at the town’s budget, borrowing, reserves, grand list and non-taxable revenues, Tooker said.

It is a rigorous process, done in conjunction with the Board of Finance.

And despite the capital forecast of up to $470 million — a figure, she emphasized, that is not set in stone — the 1st Selectwoman declared, “I am so bullish on our future as a community. There are so many exciting, positive changes.

“I’m not worried,” she continued. “But I take my fiscal responsibility very seriously. It is critical for the mill rate to remain stable, consistent and competitive.

“Westport,” she concluded, “is on fire.”

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Posted in Downtown, Economy, Education, Library, Local politics, Longshore, Police

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