Roundup: Israel Support, I-95 Detours, Aid In Dying Legislation …

Posted on October 14, 2023 | 23 comments

Last Sunday — just 24 hours after Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel — 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker released a strong statement.

She said then:

The attack on Israel and its citizens is horrifying. There is no justification for senseless acts of violence.

I as the 1st Selectwoman of Wesetport, along with our residents, stand with the people of Israel as they defend their country in the face of unspeakable terrorist acts.

Many Westporters have family and friends in Israel. Our community is profoundly affected by this tragedy. I extend my deepest condolences for the lives lost.

We are with you, Israel.

She reiterated her words yesterday. In a joint statement, Tooker and TEAM Westport chair Harold Bailey said:

TEAM Westport joins the Town of Westport and our First Selectwoman in offering its deepest solidarity and sorrow to the people of Israel for the unspeakable and unfathomable acts of inhumanity they have suffered at the hands of Hamas. As such, we also decry any attempts to justify or celebrate those atrocities. While there is much to be done to ensure stability over the long-term, in whatever is done, we urge the unrelenting focus on the humanity of all potential victims involved.

On the home front, we fully support the increased protection of the Jewish community within Westport and the greater U.S.  against the rising  scourge of antisemitism. Overall, we encourage all segments of our community to join as one in this support with the full understanding that when one of us is harmed, we are all harmed.

Many town officials — including 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, in the front row directly in front of Senator Richard Blumenthal  — were at Monday’s solidarity gathering at Temple Israel. (Photo/Allison Wachstein)

==================================================

Plan ahead!

The I-95 northbound entrance ramp at Exit 17 will be closed beginning Monday, October 16 through Friday, October 31. The closure is part of the ongoing bridge rehabilitation project. Traffic will be detoured to Riverside Avenue, then to the Post Road, Sherwood Island Connector, and onto Exit 18.

In addition, parts of I-95 itself will be closed — as will the northbound Exit 17  entrance and exit ramps, and the southbound exit ramp — along with nearby Saugatuck Avenue, from 8 p.m. Friday, October 20, through 6 a.m. Monday, October 23.

The closures are necessary for the new I-95 northbound bridge to be placed using Accelerated Bridge Construction techniques. While I-95 northbound is closed, 2 lanes of I-95 northbound traffic will be crossed over on the I-95 southbound bridge. Traffic flow in both directions will be severely impacted all weekend.

For additional information on the project, including detours, click here.

The I-95 Exit 17 entrance and exit ramps were closed intermittently last week. Blasting helped prepare the site for the “bridge slide” coming soon.

==================================================

For several years, James Naughton has been a passionate, articulate advocate for proposed medical aid in dying state legislation.

On Monday (October 16, 7 p.m., Westport Library) the Tony-winning actor and Weston resident — whose wife died after a long battle with pancreatic cancer — leads an important discussion.

“Medical Aid in Dying: Connecticut Wants It; Why Isn’t It the Law?” includes State Representative Jonathan Steinberg (former co-chair of the Public Health Committee); State Senator Ceci Maher; filmmaker Maribeth Abrams, who is producing a documentary about advocate Kim Hoffman, who died in 2022, and Tim Appleton, campaign director of Compassion & Choices.

Click here for more information, and to register.

James Naughton

=================================================

“Houdini” (Jackson) and well over 100 other Club 203 guests packed the Senior Center Thursday, for the social club for adults disabilities monthly get-together.

Houdini (aka Jackson) at the Club 203 Halloween party.

This one was (of course) Halloween-themed. Attendees enjoyed Spooky Bingo, a barbecue, baked goods, candy (of course) and more.

Senior Center staff helped facilitate the event. Sweet P Bakery, Fresh Market, Stop & Shop and CVS provided donations, while MOCA led “frightening” art projects. Club 203 co-founders Stacie Curran and Sharuna Mahesh also thanked the many volunteers who helped.

Good times at the Senior Center, for Club 203 members and friends.

==================================================

Speaking of Halloween:

This is the coven, at the corner of Hillandale and West Parish Roads:

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

==================================================

In what has become an annual tradition, RTM members celebrated Restaurant Week with a lunch last yesterday. This year’s site: Zucca, which has replaced Tarry Lodge in Saugatuck.

On hand were 24 of the 36 representatives, plus 2 former moderators (assistant town attorney Eileen Lavigne Flug and Velma Heller), plus Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton and Tatiana Plachi of the town clerk’s office.

Pro tip: Restaurant Week is actually two weeks. The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event ends tomorrow (Sunday). For a list of restaurants and their special deals, click here.

RTM members and friends celebrate Restaurant Week at Zucca.

=================================================

Amidst a gaggle of signs — for political candidates, upcoming galas, sports registration, driveway paving companies and everything else — there is a new, official looking one, in the rear of Compo Acres Shopping Center, by Compo Road South:

That’s a sign we can all agree belongs there. 988 is the new, important, easy-to-remember 24-hour hotline for people in crisis, including those considering suicide.

=================================================

Fred Cantor and his wife Debbie Silberstein recently visited their former neighbors, Gordon and Dot Hall.

They’ve lived in the same house near Hillspoint Road since 1955.

Dot recently celebrated her 92nd birthday. Gordon will soon be 96.

This fall marks the 70th anniversary of the beginning of their Westport teaching careers.

Fred wonders if there are any other married teaching couples around from the 1950s?

To which I’ll add: Are there any other teachers — period — from that decade still in Westport?

Dot and Gordon Hall (Photo/Fred Cantor)

==================================================

Westport was not the only artists’ colony in these parts.

Weston had a robust arts history too. On November 15 and 16 (6:30 p.m.), the Weston History & Cultural Center offers a look into their lives — along with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and insights from curator Laurie Weiss.

It’s called “Weston Illustrated: Penned, Painted and Sculpted.” Among the featured artists, who lived and/or worked in Weston during the first half of the 20th century: Wood Cowan, Charles and James Daugherty, Stevan Dohanos, John Held Jr., Ada “Johnny” Held, William Meade Prince, Laura Gardin Fraser and Stuart Benson

The event is limited to 12 people per night. Tickets $30 for members, $40 for non-members) include a signature cocktail and light appetizers. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

==================================================

Aspetuck Land Trust’s next “Lunch & Learn” webinar is Friday (October 20, noon to 1:15 p.m.).

The topic is “Cultivating Backyard Habitat for Pollinators in Every Season.” It will be led by Desiree Narango, conservation scientist at the Vermont Center for Ecostudies.

Click here to register, and for more information.

==================================================

Diva Showstoppers — featuring a Glinda and Elphaba from the Broadway company of “Wicked” — flies into Westport for two shows on one day this winter: January 20.

“Good Witch/Bad Witch” has entertained audiences across the US, with its vocals and banter.

It’s recommended for ages 7 and up — including parents. All tickets are $40. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

==================================================

Former Staples High School assistant coach Ty Matthew Guarente died Wednesday, surrounded by his family. He was 28.

His obituary says: “the son of the late Lisa Marie Guarente and Gary Guarente faced life’s challenges with remarkable bravery, inspiring all who knew him. Despite the obstacles he encountered, his spirit remained unbreakable. He touched the lives of many with his kindness, resilience, infectious smile and sense of humor.”

Ty was a 2012 graduate of Brien McMahon High School, where he was a varsity letterman in football, wrestling and lacrosse. He earned a bachelor of science in sports management from West Virginia University. He was treasurer and head of recruiting for Theta Chi fraternity.

After graduating Ty returned home to Norwalk and began a career in coaching, impacting the lives of student-athletes at several local high schools across many different sports, including football, wrestling and lacrosse.

“Despite being involved in a car accident in 2019 that deprived him of the ability to walk, Ty endured, continuing his coaching career and remaining a fixture in the local sports community. His family and many friends from both near and far made sure that Ty was never without love and support, and he cherished every call, text, and visit.”

In addition to his father, Ty is survived by his brother Michael (Luz), sisters Jessica Guarente and Jessica Wilchfort (William), brother John Andresen (Jennifer), 8 nieces and nephews, and grandmother Ginger Sollazzo Raymond.

A celebration of Ty’s life will be held tomorrow (Sunday, October 15, 3 to 7 p.m., Collins Funeral Home, Norwalk). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday (October 16, 10 a.m., St. Matthew Church, Norwalk).

Ty Guarente

==============================================

Today is not much of a beach day.

But yesterday was. Lauri Weiser spotted this scene — just right for “Westport … Naturally.”

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

=================================================

And finally … Rudolph Isley, one of the Isley Brothers as well as a co-writer of many of their hits during their decades-long (and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame) career, died Wednesday in his sleep, at his Chicago home. He was 84.

The Isley Brothers pre-dated the Beatles (who had a hit with their cover of the group’s “Twist and Shout”), and lasted long after the Fab 4 disbanded. Click here for a full obituary.

Here are just 3 of their classics:

(It’s your thing … do what you want to do! But please consider a contribution to “06880.” Just click here. Thank you!)

23 Comments

Posted in Arts, Education, Environment, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , , , , ,

Online Art Gallery #183

Posted on October 14, 2023 | 1 comment

Timely world events and timeless nature share space in this week’s online art gallery.

As we do each week, we welcome all kinds of art. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — whatever you’ve got.

Email it to 06880blog@gmail.com. Share your work with the world! (PS: Please include the medium you’re working in — art lovers want to know.)

Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone is invited (no, urged) to contribute.

“Under Attack” (Amy Schneider)

“Levon” — acrylic resin abstract wood canvas (Patricia McMahon)

“Fall is Here; The Sun is Brightly Shining” —
encaustic wax painting burnished with shellac (Dorothy Robertshaw)

“Signal Flags 01” — abstract art with a strong Mondrian influence (Ken Runkel)

“Evan Harding Park at Longshore” — watercolor (Jo Ann Davidson)

“Fishing Boat Nellie at Sunset” (Peter Barlow)

“Sidelined” (Lawrence Weisman)

“South Bank of the Arno River” (Kathleen Burke)

“New Bridge” (Karen Weingarten)

“Who You Calling a Frogmouth?” (Mike Hibbard)

“Fleeting Fall” (Jerry Kuyper)

Suzanne Casey says: “I came out of needlepoint retirement to make this stocking for my brother’s first grandchild. (My brother is Michael Wheatall, Staples High School Class of 1979.) I also made them for all of my children, nieces and nephews when they were born — but the last of those was 20 years ago.”

“A Golem of War, Now loose in Israel and Ukraine.” Artist Steve Stein explains: “A golem, according to Hebrew legend, is a mass of clay magically given life. It can be a force for good or more often a force of evil, war and mindless destruction.”

(Entrance is free to our online art gallery. But please consider a donation! Just click here — and thank you!)

1 Comment

Posted in Arts

Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

Scarice Details School Security, Support Efforts After Attack On Israel

Posted on October 14, 2023 | 4 comments

In the wake of last weekend’s attack on Israel — and several security issues that followed this week, at schools across the country — superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice offers these words to the Westport community:

Like all of you I have watched and listened in horror to the atrocities committed in Israel over the past week. Categorically together with you, the Westport Public Schools stand against, and condemn, all forms of hate and violence.

Our job as public educators is to support the growth and development of our students. That work is optimized in an environment marked by physical and emotional well-being, one in which students feel safe, and an abiding sense of belonging and affiliation. This is the foundation of all learning.

As much as we try, the chaos and evils of the outside world penetrate the walls of our schools. When this happens, we respond to the best of our abilities.

Rather than divide and scatter, as chaos and evil can do, we work to pull closer together as a wider Westport school community to serve our students. This is evident in how our teachers and support staff earnestly seek resources to support our students, in how our police and first responders organize to ensure our schools remain safe, and in how local community groups, such as our faith community and town Human Services Department mobilize in times of need.

In the Spirit of Our Shared Humanity
I came across this last night.  In the spirit of our shared humanity, in the face of inhumane acts, I find this to be someone who can sometimes say the difficult things out loud while transcending whatever boundaries exist between us.  I’m dating myself a bit here, and I’m not even a diehard U2 fan, but as I experienced a range of emotions this week, from abject sadness to outright fury, his voice and language spoke to me, and I hope it resonates with you.

School Security
Given the current and enduring climate of social media, I’d like to reiterate my security message to the school community from September. I expect a continued assault on our senses from social media in the coming weeks and months. Social media has proven to exploit some of the very worst of humanity. These messages will likely stir profound fear.

Yet I want to assure our school community that we have tremendous resources in place to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff.

Last month the town approved funding for additional armed police officers who are assigned exclusively to our campuses. These 4 school security officers are dedicated entirely to patrol our campuses.  They do not act as general patrol officers for our town, but as police officers for our school campuses.

One SSO is assigned to each of the following:  Coleytown Middle and Elementary; Kings Highway/Saugatuck Elementary, Staples High/Bedford Middle, and Greens Farms/Long Lots.  Their schedules align with arrival and dismissal times of the schools.

In addition to these 4 police officers assigned to our schools, the district hosts another police officer, a school resource officer at Staples High School. This officer implements the “triad model” of “school resource officer policing”: educator, informal counselor, law enforcement officer.

Ed Wooldridge is Staples’ highly regarded and very popular school resource officer.

Furthermore, each school has a full-time security guard who is assigned to the interior of our schools.  Together with the building administration, each security guard is in close contact with each campus assigned SSO.

As the building administration and security guards work to ensure safety inside our schools, the SSOs are assigned to patrol our school campuses, school grounds, and assist with traffic, pedestrians, and overall safety measures. SSOs are invited in our schools by building administrators when necessary.

Above all, these additional officers significantly increase response time in the event of an emergency, a critical strategy in school security.

We are on high alert every day. This is the reality of school security in the modern world. We are well resourced and prepared each day to provide a safe learning environment.

Other Responsive Efforts to Coordinate Support for Students
In order to coordinate our responsive efforts, I discussed our approach with the PTA presidents from all 8 schools in our monthly meeting on Wednesday. This group is instrumental in providing me feedback from the parent population.  Furthermore, this group of parent leaders/volunteers offers consequential input into the district’s decisions and has an ongoing opportunity to share insights and feedback from the parent population. I am a better educational leader as a result of their critical feedback.

In addition, I reached out to Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn, president of the Interfaith Clergy Association of Westport and Weston, to schedule a meeting next week with the local rabbis as I seek additional guidance on how to best support our Jewish students. This will be followed by a subsequent meeting with the Interfaith Clergy Association of Westport and Weston.

Our team has been in contact with Jewish Family Services in order to coordinate and provide support to Jewish families or staff in need. Jewish Family Services provides open office hours with trained social workers who offer clinical support in the following areas for those in need:

  • coping with emotional responses to trauma
  • expressing grief and fear
  • finding comfort in community

Finally, I held the monthly meeting of our district Leadership Team, composed of all 45 district administrators. We reviewed our security protocols, discussed how to best support students and staff, and coordinated resources within, and outside, the school buildings.

Support for Families In Talking with Your Children
One of our roles as educators is to provide parents with resources to support the development of your children. Although this is a very challenging topic, the following resources should prove helpful if you are struggling with a discussion with your child:

Please do not hesitate to contact one of our counselors, school psychologists, or building administrators if you need additional support and guidance with your child.

4 Comments

Posted in Education, Police, Politics, religion

Tagged , , ,

Pic Of The Day #2369

Posted on October 13, 2023 | 9 comments

Burying Hill pier (Photo/Nancy Breakstone)

9 Comments

Posted in Beach, Pic of the Day

Tagged

Friday Flashback #369

Posted on October 13, 2023 | 8 comments

The Westport Weston Family YMCA is 100 years old.

Last Friday, 300 members, supporters, friends and employees gathered under a huge tent at the Mahackeno Outdoor Center to celebrate the centennial.

They enjoyed dinner, dancing, an auction — and plenty of stories.

Bob Knoebel — former Water Rat swimmer and coach, then the Y’s first aquatics director — now lives in Idaho. But he came “home” for the occasion.

He has plenty of great memories. Among them: Charlie Moffat.

For 17 years Charlie was the face of the Y. He collected membership cards, handed out towels, and told absolutely everyone — with a wide smile — “Have a nice day.”

Charlie was so popular that when he retired, the Y’s most famous badminton player came to his party.

You might recognize him: a fellow named Paul Newman.

Paul Newman and Charlie Moffat (Photo courtesy of Bob Knoebel)

==================================================

50 years ago this week:

First Selectman John J. Kemish, “to the accompaniment of fight songs played by the Staples band,” signed documents at a ceremony in which the federal government transferred the 6-acre Nike missile site to the town of Westport.

CBS News filmed the event. Paul Newman (a few years prior to meeting Charlie Moffat) stood behind Kemish. He remarked, “It’s a great day for Westport.”

Paul Newman (far left) at the Nike Site ceremony in October 1973. 1st Selectman John Kemish is at the far right. The 2 men in the middle are unidentified. (Photo courtesy of Jim Kemish)

(“06880” covers Westport’s past, present and future — every day. Please help us look back, and ahead. Click here to contribute. Thank you!)

8 Comments

Posted in Friday Flashback, YMCA

Tagged , , , ,

Roundup: Traffic Meeting, Uncorked, Roy Wood Jr. ,,,

Posted on October 13, 2023 | 9 comments

Remember those 9 neighborhood meetings held last year about traffic?

And the report that followed, this past February?

On October 26 (7 p.m., Town Hal auditorium), the town hosts a “Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Update Session.”

On hand will be staff members knowledgeable about traffic management, roadway conditions, engineering, possible speed calming solutions, and the regulations and oversight authority of the town.

Public Works, Planning & Zoning and Public Safety Departments will update the public on progress made. Residents can also provide input on areas of concern.

RTM member Kristin Schneeman addressed a 2022 traffic and safety meeting. Next to her were fellow RTM reps Lori Church, Nancy Kail and Sal Liccione.

==================================================

Westport Sunrise Rotary has 2 signature events each year.

The Great Duck Race is for kids and families.

The Westport Uncorked wine tasting is for adults.

The 21-plus (mostly a bit older) crowd turned out in force last night. The Inn at Longshore was filled with wines of a wide variety of vintages and vineyards. There was plenty of tasting, plenty of buying — and plenty of money raised for the many good works Sunrise Rotary does, locally and much further afield.

Everything, in other words, was ducky.

A small portion of the large crowd at Sunrise Rotary’s Inn at Westport “Uncorked” wine tasting. (Photo/Dan Woog)

==================================================

Saturday’s “Stand Up For Homes with Hope” benefit at Fairfield University’s Quick Center is sold out.

But the headliner — comedian Roy Wood Jr. — is still working hard to make it a success.

He came to Westport yesterday to see what the fundraiser is all about. He toured the Gillespie men’s shelter, the Hoskins Place women’s shelter, met the clients and staff, and had lunch with the board.

Roy Wood Jr.’s job is to make people laugh. He’s done it as a correspondent on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, and as MC of last spring’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner.

But he saw first-hand the very serious, even life-changing work that everyone associated with Homes with Hope does, 24/7/365.

He’s sure to give a shout-out to them all Saturday night.

Along with plenty of jokes.

Roy Wood Jr. (back row, center) with Homes with Hope board and staff.

=================================================

The Blondinit — the new Israeli restaurant — has not yet opened on Church Lane.

But as they prepare to welcome diners, owners Solomon and Inda Sade are thinking of the beleaguered nation.

They show their solidarity, loud and clear:

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

==================================================

Westport Police made no custodial arrests between October 4 and 11.

They issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 9 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 7
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle while texting: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1

================================================

An incorrect date was given yesterday for Lynn Flint’s 1-day art show, to benefit Bridgeport artists in need of help with rent, food, fuel and materials.

.It’s Thursday, October 26 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), on Belaire Drive. A sign on Saugatuck Avenue (near the Norwalk border) will direct art lovers to the sale.

==================================================

It took several years of work, Stan Witkow says. But he finally has a tomato and garlic harvest.

And today he shares it “06880,” as our “Westport … Naturally” feature of the day.

(Photo/Stan Witkow)

==================================================

And finally … in honor of Roy Wood Jr., and his appearance tomorrow’s “Stand Up for Homes with Hope” fundraiser:

(Every day — we hope — “06880” makes you laugh, cry, think and act. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

 

9 Comments

Posted in Arts, Local politics, Police, Restaurants, Transportation

Tagged , , ,

Board Of Ed Candidates Debate Academic Rigor, “Soft Skills,” Library Books And More

Posted on October 13, 2023 | 49 comments

Mia Bomback reports:

Four candidates for the Board of Education weighed in on a variety of issues involving students, teachers and parents last night. 

There were no raised voices. But differences between the sitting board members, and those who hope to unseat them, were clear.

On books, bullying and the budget, the incumbent Democrats defended their service, while their Republican challengers called for changes. Westport’s League of Women Voters sponsored the event, at Town Hall.

Lee Goldstein, the Board’s current chair, and her running mate, Neil Phillips, Board of Ed secretary, are facing Camilo Riano and Jamie Fitzgerald. 

Goldstein and Phillips cited their combined 25 years of public service. Fitzgerald and Riano — running for their first elected positions — noted their experience as consultants, educators and entrepreneurs. All 4 candidates have children currently enrolled in, or who have gone through, Westport Public Schools. 

From left: Board of Education candidates Lee Goldstein, Jamie Fitzgerald, Camilo Riano and Neil Phillips, at last night’s League of Women Voters debate. (Photo/Mia Bomback)

Perhaps the most divisive issue was the role of mental health in schools. Asked about the most critical issues in the district, Fitzgerald described a departure from a focus on “academic rigor.” She called diversity, equity and inclusion, and social and and emotional learning, “soft skills” that take away from classroom time. 

Goldstein argued that the mental well-being of students is of the utmost priority. Social and emotional awareness are not “soft skills,” she argued, “but rather people skills, that teach children to effectively regulate their own emotions and situations. We can’t avert our eyes, and pretend that kids are alright.”

On the issue of the removal of books from school libraries, Phillips defended the Board’s adherence to previously established procedures when a complaint was lodged against a collection of books at Staples last year. 

Riano and Fitzgerald, meanwhile, emphasized the need for restricting content that is not “age appropriate” for school-age students.

“Frankly, it’s a perverted debate,” Fitzgerald said. “The school librarians decide to stock sexually explicit books, which are frequently far more obscene than is necessary. I don’t want my children seeing that, especially not in a public school.”

Goldstein responded, “every parent has the right to decide what’s appropriate for their children, but not what’s appropriate for everyone else’s.” 

Riano and Fitzgerald also called for reform in the structure of the board itself. Referring to the budget and recently contested equity study, Riano described the board as operating under “a galactic black hole.”

“Transparency is missing from the Board of Ed,” he said. “As a parent, I’ve experienced the Board of Ed implementing plans in a very secretive way. It makes it difficult for us, parents, the stockholders of this enterprise, to have representation, to know what’s going on with our schools.” 

Phillips and Goldstein countered Riano’s claims. They said that all information regarding Board of Education meetings and decision are made public on the Town’s official website, including the personal cell phone numbers of Board members. 

In their closing statements, Riano and Fitzgerald called for an emphasis on academic rigor, intellectual development, parental participation and “taking politics out of schools.” 

“We want to change the direction of the district. The emphasis on academics is being lost, and we’re beginning to see it in the rankings,” Riano said.

“Across the nation and here in Westport, many Americans are outraged by the attempt to take what should be a neutral place, our classrooms, and turn it into a political football. It’s not just a question of what ‘team’ you are on, because, while maybe some parents think they might be ‘winners’ in this ‘political game,’ we know who the losers are: the children, because the more we allow political beliefs to cloud our judgement, the less concerned we are with what actually works.”

In his closing statement, Phillips vowed to continue to dedicate time and care to “listen to the parent community, to the teachers and most importantly, to the students.”

“We lead from a basic foundation of mutual respect between ourselves and the administration, where integrity matters, process matters and trust matters,” he said. “This has been a hallmark of our public schools, but there is still more important work that needs to be done.”

“Neil and I, in all our years, have approached this work from the standpoint of making things better,” Goldstein said, in her closing statement. “We see problems, and we try to fix them. We see things that are going really well, and we try to build on them. Our academics are rigorous and exceptional, and we want our students to be profound thinkers who can manage difficult material in the humanities, math and sciences.

“But what I also know is true is that academics are not enough. We need to support our students emotionally and encourage such as perseverance, empathy and leadership. It’s never been more important to ensure our kids learn to navigate such a fraught and complex world.”

Other questions included the use of artificial intelligence in schools, the best way to teach slavery, bullying, and the most effective means of communication with the public. Absent from the conversation was any question about the controversial reconstruction of Long Lots Elementary School.

(“06880” covers the Westport education scene. But we can’t do it without your help. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

49 Comments

Posted in Education, Local politics

Tagged , , , , ,

[OPINION] “Compacted” Long Lots Could Work

Posted on October 13, 2023 | 21 comments

On Wednesday night, several Planning & Zoning Commission candidates promised to examine thoroughly the proposal for a new Long Lots Elementary School, and to “think outside the box.”

One “06880” reader is doing that.

Yulee Aronson is a licensed professional engineer, with 40 years of construction management and project controls experience, overseeing many high-profile and complex projects. He says, “I have never encountered a construction problem that couldn’t be overcome.”

Locally, Aronson has worked on the reconstruction of Staples High School and the William F. Cribari Bridge, and the chlorination building at the wastewater pollution facility. Other projects include Penn Station access, the reconstruction of La Guardia Airport, and the Baltimore Potomac Tunnel replacement.

He writes: 

The Long Lots School project may be the most expensive capital construction project in Westport’s history.

The project site is unique. It houses the school, athletic fields for the town, and community gardens. In addition, such major construction project will have an impact on the delicate ecosystem of the neighborhood.

Thus far, the options developed by the Town-hired consultants and presented by the School Building Committee are deficient in taking into consideration the interests of all parties that occupy the property. SBC’s recommended solution, Option C, keeps all stakeholders at the site but relocates the community gardens. Relocating the gardens destroys the delicate ecosystem that was created over the course of the last 20 years.

Long Lots “Option C”

Over the course of public hearings, several alternative solutions were presented by various professionals who live in town. These solutions consisted of a new school building of a similar size and function, properly sized athletic fields proposed in the footprint of the existing school, and the community gardens to remain in place with no environmental impact to the neighbors. For one reason or another, these solutions were dismissed as not viable

I’ve reviewed the report prepared by the consultants. I conclude that the selected Option C can be “compacted,” thus eliminating the need for building the baseball field over the gardens. An example of such “compaction” is as follows:

The proposed school footprint can be narrowed by 50 feet by stretching it in a north-south direction, and narrowing the courtyard in the east-west direction. The classrooms would “slide” along the perimeter of the interior wall of the courthouse, without affecting adjacency.

Additionally, the northern part of the parking/drive area can be moved closer to the school building by 50 feet, straightening the “S” configuration. The grass islands between parking/drive lanes can be eliminated for a gain of another 50 feet, leaving small islands for site lighting.

This would allow for the shift of the baseball field by about 150 feet in the westerly direction, and off the footprint of the existing gardens.

If I’m off by another 50 feet I’m sure it could be found by moving the baseball field closer to the parking area by 25 feet, and shifting the entire school building west another 25 feet.

Lastly, during construction, a controlled and safe fenced-in passageway could be created to allow gardeners access for continued maintenance of the gardens.

To reiterate, this is just one of several possible solutions that could be developed.

When a municipality or any other public entity embarks on major projects such as this, it often seeks peer reviews of the designs prepared by their primary consultants to make sure that they get the best value for their money and obtain the best solution.

It would be prudent for the town to seek an independent peer review of the currently proposed design. This review should be performed by an independent professional entity in charge of finding a design solution that satisfies the interests of all stakeholders. Alternatively, this can be requested of the current consultants.

(“06880” gives a voice to readers, through comments and opinion pieces. But we rely on readers to support us too. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

21 Comments

Posted in Education, Local politics

Tagged ,

Pic Of The Day #2368

Posted on October 12, 2023 | 3 comments

Saugatuck River and west bank at night (Photo/Susan Garment)

3 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Pic of the Day

Tagged ,

Roundup: Dog Fears, Melissa & Doug, Art Aid …

Posted on October 12, 2023 | 12 comments

Dogs are joyful: As of October 1, they are allowed back at Compo Beach.

But the other day, longtime Westporters Stefani Cohen and Cathy Malkin noticed a young child crying, afraid of the dogs.

The women kept their pets at a distance. But several other owners allowed their dogs to run up to the family. Upset and frustrated, they left the beach.

Stefani and Cathy see that scene often, at other places too like sports events and outdoor restaurants. Up to 20% of the population — adults as well as children — have some fear of dogs.

They know that with exposure therapy, it is possible to overcome a fear of dogs. In fact, they’ve written a book: “Overcoming Your Child’s Fear of Dogs: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents.”

Now they’re presenting an online workshop about it (Tuesday, October 17, 7 p.m.). The material is appropriate for all ages. It covers an understanding of cynophobia, strategies to face that fear, ways to stay safe around dogs, and the importance of noticing a dog’s body language to tell when to interact and when to stay away.

In addition to anyone fearful of dogs, the webinar is aimed at therapists, dog professionals, educators and parents.

The cost is $27. Click here to register, and for more information.

A fun sight — but not for everyone. (Photo/Dan Johnson)

=================================================

Melissa & Doug — the beloved toy company founded by Melissa and Doug Bernstein in 1988, in their Westport basement and his parents’ nearby garage — has been sold.

Spin Master announced yesterday that they bought the Wilton-based firm for $950 million.

Spin Master was attracted by Melissa & Doug’s trusted brand of early childhood toys, and timeless products. They are sustainable wooden toys, without screens. Last year’s net sales were $490 million.

Click here for the full story.(Hat tip: David Loffredo)

==================================================

It’s always hard for artists to make ends meet.

Some Bridgeport artists are in serious straits. Lynn Flint is doing what she can to help.

She’s running a 1-day estate sale at her home. Proceeds will help them meet immediate needs, including rent, food, fuel and art materials.

A member of the Bridgeport arts community will be there, offering information on the arts (who will have their own open studios in November).

So I am having an experimental one day only estate sale in the ground level area of my home since I am handicapped and can no longer run up and down stairs.

It’s Saturday, October 26 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), on Belaire Drive. A sign on Saugatuck Avenue (near the Norwalk border) will direct art lovers to the sale.

=================================================

In just over one year, Club 203 has become one of Westport’s most important non-profit organizations.

Yesterday, the Westport Rotary Club learned about the town’s social club for adults with disabilities from co-founders Stacie Curran and Sharuna Mahesh. They told moving stories of the need for such a group — and the joy and bonds created at every monthly meeting.

A host of Westport groups and businesses have hosted Club 203 activities, in a town-wide showing of interest and support.

Stacie Curran (left) and Sharuna Mahesh of Club 203, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

==================================================

Speaking of Rotary:

Rick Benson — one of Westport’s more energetic and productive members since joining in 1989 — recently received a huge honor.

In Toronto, Rick was recognized with a zonal Donald MacRae Peace Award. It celebrates members who demonstrate the advancement of international goodwill, understanding and peace through peacemaking efforts or humanitarian activity of international significance.

Rick is a previous recipient of local, district and zone honors — and the Rotary International Service Above Self Award, in 2020.

Rick Benson, his wife Totney, and his Donald MacRae Peace Award.

=================================================

STAR Inc. and Voices Center for Resilience present a special program: “A 22-Year Journey from 9/11 to Today: Helping Families and Communities Prepare for Emergencies” next Wednesday (October 18, 7 p.m., Westport Library).

Mary Fetchet — founding Director of Voices Center for Resilience — lives in New Canaan. Her son Brad died in the September 11 attacks.

She will share her personal experience and perspective on preparing communities in advance of a tragedy.

A panel discussion about emergency management in Westport will include 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, emergency management director and Deputy Fire Chief Nick Marsan, Deputy Police Chief Ryan Paulsson, Human Services director Elaine Daignault, and state Department of Emergency Services representative Robert Kenny.

Attendees will receive a tip sheet and emergency management packet.

For more information and to register,  click here.

==================================================

Trick or treat!

Halloween is less than 3 weeks ago. These guys — at the corner of Clapboard Hill and Devon Road — can’t wait.

Then again, maybe they have all the time in the world.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

==================================================

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” Saugatuck River photo comes from Sunny Sherman.

Her words are as meaningful as her picture: “It’s hard to forget the horrors happening in Israel right now. But I thought you and your readers might like to enjoy (unfiltered) what I am blessed to see almost nightly.”

(Photo/Sunny Sherman)

==================================================

And finally … in response to Stefani Cohen and Cathy Malkin’s upcoming webinar (story above):

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. If you support local journalism, please support us. Just click here — and thank you!)

 

12 Comments

Posted in Arts, Beach, Children, Environment, Local business

Tagged , , , , , ,