Charlie and Nancy McMillan always loved Compo Beach.
Since moving to Westport in 1979 (though they were away for a few years in between). they visited often.
The pandemic made the beach even more attractive.
That fall and winter — after working on their exhibit design business from their home office, off Imperial Avenue — the couple headed to Compo, to watch the sunset.
One Compo Beach sunset …
“It really felt like we were getting out,” Nancy says. “We felt alive again.”
They were not alone. They saw the same cars there, night after night.
They also saw the same man, in a small sloop. He sailed each night until dark — accompanied, every time, by opera blaring from a speaker.
That continuity helped the couple through COVID. And as others coped, Charlie and Nancy drew strength from them.
Night after night — particularly in winter, as the sunsets grew more dramatic — Nancy and Charlie took photos.
… and another.
Each sunset, they realized, is different. The colors, the clouds, how the sun tracks across the sky — every day, it changes.
With artists’ eyes, the McMillans looked for different angles, lights and scenes.
Nancy had self-published a few books, for family members. As she and Charlie realized how many great — and different — Compo sunset photos they’d amassed, they thought of compiling them all.
To add power to the pictures, Nancy searched the internet for quotes.
“May you always have a shell in your pocket, and sand in your shoes,” read one.
“You are the sky. Everything else … it’s just weather,” was another.
The result is “Beach Light.” The book — 3 dozen photos, each with a quote, plus a few thoughts from Nancy and Charlie — was a labor of love.
Charlie and Nancy McMillan, and friend.
“Our clients always had tight budgets, and impossible deadlines. This was a chance to do what we wanted,” Charlie says.
They printed only 30 copies, for family members and close friends. They’re expensive: about $100 each.
Recipients are grateful. “I look at it whenever I need a lift,” one said.
The couple still goes to Compo, though not always for sunsets. These days, they walk their dog there in the morning.
They’ll keep doing so — much to their own surprise.
For a long time, they planned to retire to Deer Isle. Maine. It’s a place they’ve loved since college.
Now though, they will remain in Westport.
The sailing season is longer here. There’s more to do, year-round. They have a nice network of friends.
And of course, there’s the never-ending, always-changing beauty and magic of Compo Beach.
(Charlie and Nancy McMillan did not plan to publish more copies of their book. However, if anyone is interested in learning more, they welcome emails: nancy@mcmillangroup.com.)
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One more reason the McMillans love Compo Beach. (All photos courtesy of Charlie and Nancy McMillan)
Yesterday, she sent her minions here to pick up a large order from Fatto a Mano.
That’s Pierluigi Mazzella’s bakery. He’s earned a large, devoted following — at the Westport Farmer’s Market, and through online ordering — for his magic with all things sourdough: bread, focaccia, pastries and more.
Martha wanted plenty of panettoni.
And for good reason. Though Pierluigi comes from Italy — and an image of his village and his father’s boat is on his cookie boxes — his baked goods are actually out of this world.
Pierluigi Mazzella and his bakers, at Fatto a Mano. The name means “made by hand.” (Hat tip and photo/Frank Rosen)
Speaking of food: There are some changes on the restaurant scene, just over the Southport line:
A sign promises that X Ramen (“Ramen, Fried Chicken, Tea”) is coming soon to the site of the former Wafu. A quick Google search turned up no further information.
Meanwhile, a few yards east, the longtime S&S Dugout has already become Kabab & Hummus House, offering “Mediterranean Fusion Grill.”
The menu looks great, even if they did not employ an editor to check mis-apostrophied words like Soup’s, Salad’s and Special’s.
Plus, “Meat Balls” is actually one word.
Oh, yeah: They also spelled “Mediterranean” wrong on their big outdoor sign.
Last week, Sustainable Westport announced its first-ever Community Giving Challenge.
Since then, 73 Westporters have supported their mission: to help Westport make small changes and big commitments toward a healthier, more sustainable future.
If they reach 100 gifts by December 31, a generous Westporter has pledged to donate $5,000 to help expand the organization’s sustainability programs, educational initiatives, and community outreach efforts.
Sustainable Westport is ab independent non-profit, run entirely by volunteers. To donate, click here.
Jenna Diane is a Westport mother. She facilitates support groups for mothers of children from birth to age 5, receiving early intervention services (Instagram: @uniquelymothering).
Jenna writes:
My son was 18 months old when my husband and I moved to Westport. Thoughts of him attending college ought to have been the last thing on my mind.
But while new moms around me were going on playdates and enjoying baby classes, I was at speech and occupational therapy sessions, hosting birth to 3 providers in my house, and trying to not be consumed with fear over what a “developmental delay” could mean for my toddler.
Like so many mothers of young children who do not present as typically developing or receive an early diagnosis, the vision of what I expected while I was expecting imploded — leaving me in a perpetual state of anxiety over the future.
As someone who was surrounded by people who attended well-known colleges all my life, I unconsciously assumed my child’s path would be similar to my own. But at barely 2 years old, my husband and I were presented with 3 options.
Our child would grow out of his delays. He could end up with a mild learning disability. Or the delays could turn into something more significant.
Would he be college-bound? Only time would tell.
It was a difficult journey processing that my family’s path to and through school could end up being different from all I had ever known. But in a strange twist, it was a gift to see the world through a new lens.
As I encountered mom chatter about all the sports their kids were signing up for or which preschoolers were reading at an early age, all I cared about was whether my son would have meaningful friendships, develop confidence and compassion for others, learn to think for himself, and become independent.
Those who are privileged to live in a town like Westport are well aware of the hyper-competitiveness that lurks beneath the surface, even at the earliest of ages.
Wealthy communities are socialized to see admittance to high-ranking schools as emblematic of higher intelligence, and subsequently a pathway towards a high paying career.
But this cycle foments crushing pressure onto parents and students, and one must wonder at what cost. In a New York Post article, Christopher Rom, CEO of Command Education, stated, “The emphasis on elite and Ivy schools has absolutely gone off the rails.” We all know what he is referring to.
The atrocities of October 7 unearthed another ugly reality about our classist educational system. While elite institutions have long been known as bastions of intellectual and rigorous think tanks, for its renowned research from the créme de la créme professors, and churning out the best and brightest graduates, the aftermath of those attacks shattered such illusions.
The hate-spewing college protests that arose the next day, the disturbing rise in campus antisemitism and harassment of Jewish students, proclamations from professors at places like Cornell and Columbia University praising Hamas’ heinous barbarism, and the disgraceful congressional testimonies of Harvard, Penn and MIT presidents should make everyone question the value of a degree from any of these schools today.
At the very least, it should propel every parent to reevaluate such an investment in future tuition and alumni giving.
Anti-Israel protest at Tulane University.
In a letter I sent to my alma mater a week later, I wrote: “It is disturbing to observe Columbia’s leaders being either weak, ignorant or heartless in turning their backs on a historically vulnerable and traumatized community. What does it say about the education Columbia is providing, the critical thinking skills you’re cultivating, and pursuit of human understanding when you have to shut down your campus due to safety concerns on the heels of the death, torture, rape, and kidnapping of 1,300 innocent civilians? What does it say about the mass numbers of Columbia University students who are unable to distinguish between terrorism and ‘resistance?’”
As a community, I hope we will seize this moment by taking a hard look at our educational goals and aspirations for our children.
I had to do that exercise when I least expected it. But if we take this unexpected moment in history to collectively wrestle with this question, Westport will be better for it.
The recent Newsweek article detailing the pernicious, antisemitic bullying that took place in one of our schools ought to be a wake-up call that we, as parents, must do better.
We have to return to the basics. Prioritize kindness, curiosity, tolerance, a growth mindset, and courage. Teach them more than ever before how to stand up to bullies and counter bias in all its forms, including antisemitism. Help them learn how to debate, search for nuance and understanding, but also to be forceful in distinguishing and calling out the difference between good and evil.
An Ivy League degree might get Westport students an impressive stamp on their resumé, but it will not produce the next generation of leaders that America and the world desperately needs. It is clear we cannot rely on the current educational system to be leaders on moral clarity. That responsibility falls uniquely and urgently on us.
Yesterday — following several complaints about the sale of illegal substances — Westport detectives executed a search warrant at the Post Road East smoke and vape shop, located in the former Subway store.
Assisted by agents from the state Department of Consumer Protection Drug Control Division, they found “a significant number of illegal items.”
They include hundreds of jars of pre-rolled marijuana cigarettes and vape cartridges, containers of concentrated resin, synthetic cannabinoids, dozens of packages of THC gummies, marijuana, and packaging materials.
The THC in many products exceeded the limit allowed in a hemp product, and/or were not in child or tamper-resistant packaging, police say.
Savvy Smoker does not hold a cannabis dispensary, hybrid retailer, retailer or delivery service license from the DCP.
As we rush around crazily — buying, wrapping, delivering and mailing gifts; preparing treats and meals, and doing squillions of other things — it may be hard to think beyond our friends and families.
But Westporters do.
A post earlier this month offered dozens of non-profit ideas for “06880” readers to give end-of-the-year gifts. From kids to animal welfare, the environment and literacy to women’s issues, our online community opened their hearts (and wallets).
I know from many grateful volunteers at a number of organizations how much those donations helped. Thank you to all who contributed!
(There’s still time! Just click here to find a cause that’s important to you.)
For 40 years Westporters have supported Homes with Hope’s supportive housing programs and pantries, with donations of funds, food and time.
“06880” readers also responded quickly and generously to our appeal to help heat 2,000 homes in Westport’s sister city of Lyman, Ukraine.
Yesterday, when we were $3,348 from our $60,000 goal, a local couple stepped up with a pledge of exactly that amount. Thanks to their gift — and so many others, including 2 large checks — the winter will be a bit warmer for thousands of residents, thousands of miles away.
Those generous gestures come on top of so many others. Small acts of kindness — to coffee shop workers, Amazon deliverers and postal carriers, hair stylists and manicurists — go a long way for recipients.
So does donating to toy and clothing drives, and bringing and serving food at Homes with Hopes’ Gillespie Center.
Thanks to everyone who is part of “06880,” for making our community — and our world — a little bit better.
You’re not looking for pats on the back.
But here’s one anyway.
(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com)
In a town noted for long meetings, Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting was remarkable for being particularly lengthy.
For 6 1/2 hours — from 7 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. — commissioners discussed the Long Lots Elementary School renovation project. They’re involved because it can move forward only with their positive 8-24 report (or if they do not vote within 35 days).
The P&Z offered the most in-depth questions — and at times, most skeptical reception — of any town body so far.
Part of the discussion involved the possibility of separating decisions about the new building itself, and a Babe Ruth baseball field that has become part of the discussion. If approved, the field would replace the Westport Community Gardens — forcing a move to (perhaps) the Senior Center.
The meeting ended with no decision. The P&Z will continue its discussion on January 8.
Monday’s session was the first for new member John Bolton. Though he lost his bid for re-election last month, he was nominated by the Republican Town Committee to replace Amie Tesler, who resigned due to increased business responsibilities.
The P&Z voted unanimously in favor. He was immediately sworn in by Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton.
After the Board of Selectwomen voted recently to place 3-hour limits on some parking spots downtown — up from the previous 2 hours, but not enforced since COVID — officials said the signs would be delivered after the new year.
Turns out, they’re already here — and in place.
This was the scene yesterday, in the Baldwin lot off Elm Street:
(Photo/Bruce Schneider)
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Speaking of downtown:
Tonight, Michael Friedman’s pop-up gallery in Bedford Square (31 Church Lane, opposite Spotted Horse; 5 to 8 p.m.) hosts drop-in party.
Guests can enjoy the dozens of photos on the wall, of the Rolling Stones, The Band, Janis Joplin and many other music legends. All taken by Friedman when he was a rock photographer.
The images were forgotten for decades. Now, Friedman has printed them again, and turned them into a book.
“Exposed: The Lost Negatives and Untold Stories of Michael Friedman” will be given as a complimentary copy, to any purchasing a limited edition print.
Michael Friedman in his pop-up gallery. His photo shows Levon Helm, legendary drummer for The Band.
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“A Sherlock Carol” opened last night, at the sold-out Westport Country Playhouse.
The holiday family production is being performed in 14 theaters this week. The local version features the original New York City cast.
The show runs evenings through Saturday (December 23), with matinees on Friday and Saturday. Click here for tickets, and more information.
“A Sherlock Carol” opening night bows. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)
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Congratulations to Caleb Smith!
The Wreckers’ all-everything quarterback — who led his team to the Class “LL” (extra large schools) state championship 21-20 over West Haven, despite separating his shoulder on the first play — has been named MaxPreps’ Connecticut Player of the Year.
That’s on top of previous honors, like 2-time All-State and FCIAC Player of the Year.
Smith is Staples’ all-time passing leader (5,198 yards), and ranks 3rd in both career rushing yards (2,307) and rushing touchdowns (44).
Last year, he was on the state championship lacrosse team, as well as the state finalist basketball squad.
Williams College junior — and 2021 Staples High School graduate — Arianna Gerig is the New England Women’s Basketball Association Division III Player of the Week.
She averaged 31.5 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 0.5 blocks in a pair of games last week — including the most points in one game in Ephs’ history (43 against Smith College).
Chris Coogan and his band played to a full house Sunday at the Senior Center.
The holiday concert was sponsored by the Friends of the Westport Center for Senior Activities, thanks to a grant from the Westport Rotary Club — the gift that keeps on giving.
Chris Coogan (right) and his band, at the Senior Center.
And finally … happy 66th birthday to Billy Bragg. He’s not everyone’s cup o’ tea — but I’ve loved his music and messages for nearly 40 years.
(Each day, “06880” delivers hyper-local news and information you can use. If you appreciate our 24/7/365 work, please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Please click here. Thank you!)
That’s all that’s needed for Westport to reach its goal of $60,000. With just $3,348 more, we can fund two wood pellet machines — and provide heat, all winter long, to 2,000 residents of our sister city: Lyman, Ukraine.
Within minutes, we got it.
A generous and swift gift from a Westport couple — of exactly $3,348 — ensured that both wood pellet machines will be delivered almost immediately to the war-torn town.
Each machine provides wood for 1,000 people, living in badly damaged apartments after nearly 2 years of Russian attacks.
One of the wood pellet machines helping to heat Lyman.
With other donations that followed, Westport’s holiday fund drive has raised $62,672.14.
That’s on top of last winter’s $252,000, and a summertime “thank you” party that brought in nearly $50,000. Those funds have paid for an enormous variety of much-needed aid: emergency communication equipment, police and trash vehicles, meals, bulletproof vests for utility workers, children’s gifts, repairs to hundreds of apartments, portable heaters and more.
The sister city relationship between Westport and Lyman grew out of a similar project with Westport and Marigny-le-Lozon, France. That one began nearly 80 years ago, in the aftermath of World War II.
For 2 decades, Westporters helped our French friends rebuild. Youngsters who received Christmas gifts never forgot our town’s generosity. In 2022, when officials named a room in their Town Hall after Charlotte MacLear — the Staples High School French teacher who was an instrumental bridge — they suggested that Westport and Marigny join together to help a Ukrainian town. Russia had invaded that nation less than 3 months earlier.
Brian and Marshall Mayer — Westporters who founded Ukraine Aid International, a non-profit that ensures goods and supplies are delivered where they are needed most — identified Lyman, in the Donetsk region, as a place in desperate need of help.
Westport is proud of its relationship with Lyman. In addition to 3 separate fundraising drives, Bedford Middle School students sent artwork and letters. They were delivered by 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas, who last spring became the first American officials to travel east of Kiev, when they visited their counterparts in Lyman.
Marigny too has been very generous. Beginning this summer, they collected 500 toys.
Thanks to Ukraine Aid International, they’re being delivered in time for Christmas.
For the second year in a row, Lyman residents are spending the holidays under siege.
But — thanks to Westport and Marigny — for the second year in a row, they know they are not alone.
Aid to Lyman is always welcome. To donate by credit card, click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo. Thank you!
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
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