Roundup: Parker Harding Meeting, NASA Monitoring, Bridge Crashing …

Posted on August 3, 2023 | 6 comments

Next up for the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee: a public review and feedback meeting covering additional plans for its “Master Plan for Downtown Parking and Pedestrian Areas: Reconnecting the Riverfront.”

Particular focus will be on the Parker Harding Plaza design.

The session is set for August 22 (7 p.m., Westport Library). All residents and downtown stakeholders are invited to attend.

Information on the project is available on the DPIC website. Feedback is welcome in its comments section.

DPIC also conducts regular public meetings, typically the 2nd Thursday of each month at 8:30 a.m.

Screenshot from the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee website.

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Yesterday’s Roundup included several photos of Monday night’s NASA rocket launch, to resupply the International Space Station. It was (very) visible over Westport.

But NASA is not through with Westport.

Yesterday morning, Diane Bosch and her husband Eric chatted with a team from the space agency, at Compo Beach’s Ned Dimes Marina. A NASA boat was docked there.

As best as the Bosches could determine from the visitors, they were monitoring air quality, and satellite launched earlier this year from Elon Musk’s SpaceX group.

“They were a bit secretive when we tried to understand what they were doing,” Diane reports.

“They did say they were in town from the NASA site in Virginia — and they had nothing to do with the rocket launch the night before.”

Monday night’s rocket launch. (Photo/Marjolijn Baxendale)

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between July 26 and August 2. A woman was detained for violation of probation.

Police also issued the following citations:

  • Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 2 citations
  • Speeding: 1
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 1
  • Evading responsibility: 1
  • Interfering with an officer: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1

One arrest was made for violation of probation.

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Speaking of driving issues:

The most recent truck-vs.-Saugatuck Avenue railroad bridge encounter took place Sunday evening.

As usual, the bridge won.

Aftermath of the Saugatuck Avenue railroad bridge strike. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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There are tag sales.

And then there’s the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport tag sale.

That event — one of the best bargain-hunting dates on the calendar — is this Saturday (August 5, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., 10 Lyons Plains Road).

Early birds can go at 8 a.m. ($20, at the door).

The indoor event has something for everyone: clothing, dishes, housewares, sheets, towels, pillows, small furniture, rugs, household appliances, artwork, puzzles, toys, electronics and more.

Everything is “priced fairly, to move.”

Questions? Email uuchurch@uuwestport.org, or call 203-227-7205.

A small portion of the big Unitarian tag sale.

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Yesterday’s “Unsung Hero” feature gave a shout-out to Westport’s favorite long distance swimmer and Swim Across the Sound volunteer, Liz Fry.

The annual event involves nearly 200 swimmers. They raise money for underserved cancer patients in the Bridgeport area.

A typical Swim brings in $300,000.

This year’s total — over $455,000, and counting — blew that number out of, um, the water.

Congratulations to all who participated. And of course to Liz Fry, without whom none of that would be possible.

Liz Fry

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Crabbers — with LED headlamps and big nets — were out again yesterday at the Sherwood Mill Pond, starting around 8:20 p.m.

Concerned residents — including environmentalists worried about over-fishing, along with neighbors disturbed by the bright lights — have contacted the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, as well as Westport Police and the Parks & Recreation Department.

Crabbing last night in the Sherwood Mill Pond. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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Guardians caring for children do not have it easy.

But, says Westport-Weston Probate Judge Lisa Wexler, they may be eligible for thousands of dollars in grants to help with housing, food, transportation and enrichment activities.

Guardians can be grandparents or other relatives, or sometimes close family friends with long-standing relationships with a child.

Guardians save Connecticut $72 million a year, by keeping thousands of children out of foster care. However, unlike foster parents, Probate Court-appointed guardians receive no financial support for taking on this important (and often unexpected) responsibility.

State Kinship Fund awards grants of up to $550 a child — or $2,200 a family – a year help pay for necessities like glasses and clothing, or enrichment activities like summer camp, art supplies or creative books. The Respite Fund covers childcare, rent, transportation and food. These grants are capped at $2,200 a year.

Applications are at ctprobate.gov under the “Children’s Matters” tab, or by calling the Westport-Weston Probate Court: 203-341-1100.

State grants help guardians pay for enrichment activities.

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Outdoor music continues this weekend on Church Lane.

Accompanying diners and shoppers this evening is Dan Tressler. Tomorrow night: Vinnie Ferrone.

Musicians are sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association.

Outdoor dining on Church Lane.

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It’s the dog days of summer.

And Westport has officially gone to the dogs.

On Monday, Yogi Bear — a 2-year-old Keeshond — was named “Honorary Mayor of Westport” by 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

Yogi (accompanied by his friend Cathy Malkin) was at Town Hall to push his agenda of free cookies for all dogs.

As honorary mayor, he promised to spread love and joy everywhere.

Yogi then headed to Old Mill Grocery & Deli, where he shared a slice of vegan pizza with State Representative Dominique Johnson. It’s bipartisan: She agrees with Tooker that there should be free cookies for all dogs.

Yogi Bear with State Representative Dominique Johnson.

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An alert “06880” reader spotted a new bat house the other day, at Compo Beach.

If it’s yours, email 06880blog@gmail.com. Include where at the beach you may have lost it. I’ll contact the person who found it, and make arrangements for you to pick it up.

Bat house

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We love our butterflies.

But they often fly too fast for us to appreciate them fully.

Today, we’re in luck. David Hyman captured (on camera) this beauty. Enjoy this beautiful addition to our “Westport … Naturally” series:

(Photo/David Hyman)

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And finally … in honor of the bat house found at Compo Beach (story above), here’s a hat tip to our former neighbor, Meat Loaf:

 (Right off the bat today, you can help “06880.” Please click here to support this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Environment, Police

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Arts Legacy Lives In Beach Back Yard

Posted on August 3, 2023 | 9 comments

Nearly every evening, Andrew Colabella heads to Compo Beach to enjoy the sunset.

Even the drive there is calming. But on Sunday, as he turned onto Bradley Street, he saw something unusual.

There — at the stop sign midway to Compo Beach Road — he noticed a number of large canvases, spread throughout a backyard.

Was someone moving in? Moving out? Was it a private outdoor pop-up art show?

He stopped to see.

A man sat in back by a table, looking at his phone. Andrew stood at the edge of the lawn, mesmerized by the abstract art and abundant colors.

“Hello,” the man said gently.

Andrew asked if he could wander around. He usually saw art like this peering through windows, walking or driving by a home. He’d never seen it spread out across a lawn.

Warmly and eagerly, the man told Andrew about his art.

His name is David Johnson. He spent his life working in advertising, in Chicago.

His friend, a sculptor, had a studio with a little corner for an easel and canvases. David discovered a waye to express his creativity in a form other than advertising.

With a dream and a vision, his images bled on to the canvas from his soaked paintbrush.

His friend and other artists were taken aback by his talent, a gift he had not known he had.

They urged him, “get a gallery! Rent one out, host a show, sell it — show it!”

David asked, “How?”

With a bit of  support from friends, his art was showcased. It is now bought around the country.

David’s wife, Holly Jaffe Johnson — fashionable, warm and energetic — greeted me — invited me into their house.

The Von Castelberg Cottage was once a little brown home. It’s now been restored and revitalized, with Norman Rockwell-esque charm.

They moved here in 2019. Andrew began telling them about Westport’s history — a refuge for the wealthy, but also a home for creative artists from around the world.

David and Holly have a deep appreciation for Westport’s past. Andrew puts them “in the same category as those artists — and more importantly, with those who moved to town with a deep love, passion and understanding of Westport, what it is and what it means.

“They improved and respected its history, but also shared their artistic gift.”

Andrew calls the event “an impromptu, amazing greeting and conversation with an Odysseus sirens-like calling, but through visual stimulation and colorful abstract canvases that called me to trespass into a midsummer night’s dream of bountiful color.”

Andrew realized he must not be the only person who noticed the art.

David and Holly told him that 3 pieces had just sold. They were making their way to fellow Westporter — and artist in his own way — Christian Soriano.

“Always keep your eye out in Westport,” Andrew says.

“The legacy and gifts of our artists could be right behind your fence, down the street — or on your way to the beach.”

(All photos/Andrew Colabella)

(“06880” covers Compo Beach, the arts — and everything else going on in town — 24/7/365. Please support our work. Just click here. Thank you!) 

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Posted in Arts, Beach

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Pic Of The Day #2297

Posted on August 2, 2023 | 2 comments

Relaxing at Compo’s South Beach (Photo/Nicole Gorman)

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Gardeners Air Long Lots Concerns; Building Committee Responds

Posted on August 2, 2023 | 25 comments

“06880” intern and Staples High School Inklings writer Charlotte Berner was at Tuesday’s Long Lots School Building Committee meeting. She reports:

Westporters had a chance last night to comment on the future of Long Lots Elementary School.

The Long Lots School Building Committee has not yet finalized a plan to renovate the 70-year-old building, or construct a new one.

The first 15 minutes of last night’s Town Hall meeting were open for public discussion. A work session followed; then came another public comment period.  

Long Lots Building Committee members at Town Hall. (Photo/Charlotte Berner)

The main focus of comments in the packed meeting room involved how the building plan may interfere with the Westport Community Gardens and Long Lots Preserve. Both are located just south of the school.

Over 20 residents noted the importance of the gardens to Westporters, described the significance they hold for the town, and voiced concerns about the gardens’ fate.

”The community garden was really never called up,” Gardens Committee member Toni Simonetti, said. “We basically got wind of what was happening. There was no official communication with us.”

The work session focused on the feasibility report for the school’s potential reconstruction options. These options include renovation, renovation with a building expansion, as well as a complete reconstruction of the school. 

​​At the end of the work session, attendees said that the project’s digital map of school building options all covered the current Community Gardens.

However, committee members stressed that the area covering the gardens was a temporary placeholder. So far, they said, they have only addressed the building itself.

“We were going through and only looking at the building,” LLSBC member Srikanth Puttagunta said. “We did not suggest anything about where the gardens go, or whether they stay or move.”

Long Lots Elementary School … (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

“This meeting was to review the written content of the draft report,” LLSBC chair Jay Keenan said. “It allowed us to give our comments back to the design team in order to edit the report.”

“Which options are there, or are there any options for building the school or renovating the old school that includes keeping the gardens preserved?” Simonetti asked. 

Similar questions were raised by many attendees. 

Keenan replied, “At no time during any part of our process have we proposed eliminating the community gardens from the property.” 

The LLSBC hopes to make a recommendation for the school’s reconstruction to First Selectwoman by the end of the month. Further review would come from the Board of Education, Representative Town Meeting, Board of Finance and other town bodies.

“We understand the challenges that may be associated with relocating different activities or programs on the property,”  committee member and vice chair of the Board of Education Liz Heyer said.

“But at the end of the day, all the needs have to be balanced between what’s needed educationally, what’s needed recreationally and what’s needed for other community aspects such as the gardens.”

The next Long Lots Building Committee meeting is tentatively scheduled for August 8 (6 p.m., Town Hall), to review design plans for different options.

… and the nearby Westport Community Gardens. (Drone photo/Franco Fellah)

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Moments ago, the Long Lots School Building Committee posted this on its Facebook page:

On August 1st, the committee reviewed a draft of the Feasibility Report which, when finalized, will include:
1. summary of sites studies and building assessments
2. preliminary building design plans based on educational requirements
3. architectural engineering and construction components
4. site design plans for building concepts
5. sustainability enhancements
6. pricing and construction timelines

Focus of the meeting was to provide comments to the content of above items #1, 3 & 5 in the report. Public comments were shared at the beginning and end of meeting.
Next meeting is tentatively scheduled for August 8th at 6pm at Town Hall (location TBD) to review design plans for the different building options.
—————————————
AT THIS STAGE, ALL DESIGN PLANS ARE EARLY DRAFTS AND WILL CONTINUE TO EVOLVE

Design plans for the building itself are being refined for the different options.

Site plans for surrounding elements (circulation, parking, gardens and fields) have not yet been presented (any site design plans that have accompanied building designs are solely for purpose of allocating space on the site).

Preliminary site plans for surrounding elements will be part of the Feasibility Report submitted in late August, but note that both the building and site design plans will still go through many iterations.

Over the course of the project, changes to preliminary building and site design plans will occur due to natural design and construction processes (further site testing, architectural engineering and construction developments, pricing constraints).

WE APPRECIATE YOUR ENGAGEMENT – PLEASE APPRECIATE THE LLSBC’S MANDATE TO EXPLORE ALL OPTIONS

We are working hard to balance the needs of all stakeholders – students, parents, community gardeners, recreational athletes, neighbors and all residents, as we continue to develop preliminary design plans. We are exploring all options to design an educationally excellent, sustainable, efficient and beautiful elementary school, while minimally impacting students and programming during construction, as well as minimizing costs for taxpayers.

The gardens and preserve will not be eliminated. We do recognize the effort involved in relocating gardens. We are exploring multiple options to determine what will be feasible. We are also partnering with Parks & Rec to ensure we maintain comparable field space at LLS or elsewhere in town.

There will be plenty of opportunity for public comment at town governing body meetings (BoE, BoS, BoF & RTM) when the Feasibility Report is shared in late August. Public comment is also welcome at the beginning of LLSBC meetings.

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Posted in Education, Environment, Local politics

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Unsung Hero #296

Posted on August 2, 2023 | 5 comments

For years, “06880” has been a Liz Fry fan.

The 1976 Staples High School graduate — who is as low-key as she is accomplished, so we would never have heard about this from her — made the Guinness World Record Book as the oldest person to swim the Ocean Seven.

That is no walk in the park. It’s a stupefying long-distance swim challenge, in some of the most difficult bodies of water in the world: the North Channel, Cook Strait, Molokai Channel, English Channel, Catalina Channel,  Tsugaru Channel and Strait of Gibraltar.

Liz Fry, in action.

Liz — who swam her way into the record book at 60 years old — is not a professional swimmer. She has an undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut and a master’s from Fordham, and works with global markets on tax initiatives.

But that’s not why the soft-spoken, unassuming swimmer is today’s Unsung Hero.

The nomination comes from one of her many fans. She doesn’t tout her work with Swim Across the Sound.

So Nancy Saipe will.

Liz Fry, out of the water.

The annual event — held last weekend — involves nearly 200 swimmers raising money (typically $300,000) for underserved cancer patients in the Bridgeport area.

“She volunteers all of her time to run an incredibly safe and fun swim,” Nancy says.

“She gets the whole community involved: swimmers, boat captains, kayak escorts, police, EMTs, the Coast Guard. On land, there are lot of others: timers, traffic directors, photographers and more.”

Last year and this, Liz inspired Nancy. She marvels that high school students, college students, grandparents — “everyone cheers each other on, due to the welcoming environment Liz creates.” Many participants are from Westport.

Some swimmers complete the 15 miles solo. Most are on relay teams, of 2 or more people. The University of Connecticut, Lehigh and Marist form teams; so does the Westport Westport Family YMCA Water Rats. Some families make teams.

Liz Fry (Photo courtesy of New York Daily News)

“Liz ensures that anyone who is passionate (and qualified) can swim on a team,” Nancy says.

“She is so enthusiastic about all the people involved. And she is so dedicated to raising money for cancer patients.”

Congratulations, Liz, on a job not easily — but very well — done. You are “06880”‘s well-deserved Unsung Hero of the Week!

(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com)

(If you like this weekly feature — or anything else that “06880” does — please support our work. Just click here. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: NASA, WFD, GOAT …

Posted on August 2, 2023 | 2 comments

Compo Beach-goers got more than the usual evening delights — a beautiful sky and welcoming breeze — yesterday.

Even if they weren’t aware of it.

A few minutes after 8:30, a NASA rocket with supplies for the International Space Station took off from Virginia.

Its contrails were clear to anyone who looked.

A few minutes later, the rocket ignition itself was visible.

(Photos/Jennifer Kobetitsch)

Another view of the rocket launch. (Photo/Marjolijn Baxendale)

Soon came a full moon rise — the “sturgeon moon” — over the cannons…

(Photo/Michelle Harmon)

,,, and another view, slightly higher …

(Photo/Mary Robertshaw)

… and then, this timeless image ….

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

… and another:

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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Beth Keane lives off South Compo Road, not far from the fire and police stations, and EMS headquarters.

Lately, she’s heard an increased number of sirens all day long.

I live near her. I’ve noticed it too.

She notes, “This absolutely is not the fault of our wonderful emergency services.” 

Beth wonders if there are more emergencies overall. More likely, she thinks, sirens are used more frequently “due to the increasingly horrible traffic congestion. That may be the only way to clear a path.

“It is not so routine these days to maneuver a police vehicle, fire truck or ambulance given the current congested traffic situation in good weather — let alone through snow and ice.

“At high speed it is dicey at best, probably hair-raising, and a testament to the skill of our protectors.”

I thought about this on Monday, when a fire truck raced west on the Post Road.

The 2 lanes (plus turning lanes) were stopped for a red light at Imperial and Myrtle Avenues. With no traffic coming toward it, the vehicle maneuvered into the eastbound lane, slowed at the light, then continued toward the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, as cars slowly moved right in front of Bank of America.

It’s a scene repeated several times a day. Those sirens are definitely needed.

Drive carefully, so you won’t need emergency vehicles.

But if you see one coming — ahead of you, or behind — pull over. Give it room. To help us, they need our help.

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You’d expect a goat at Wakeman Town Farm.

But at The Porch at Christie’s?

Sure! The farm, and the restaurant just a few yards east on Cross Highway, teamed up to create the “WTF G.O.A.T. Bowl.”*  It includes strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, bananas, Arethusa Farm yogurt and quinoa — topped with Wakeman Town Farm honey.

It’s $12, and is available through September 30.

Also new at The Porch: animal sugar cookies of sheep, alpacas and goats. Made by their nonprofit Sweet P Bakery, they’re $3 each. 10 % of the proceeds are donated to WTF.

The animal cookies are also available at the Town Farm’s Saturday farm stand.

* The letters stand for “Greatest Of All Time.”

Wakeman Town Farm’s GOAT Salad at The Porch.

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The Westport Library board of trustees has a new president.

Barrie Rosen takes over for Jeremy Price. He remains on the board, as immediate past president.

Rosen — a longtime Library advocate — has served on the board since 2020. She leads marketing communications at Consumer Reports after earlier stints at YP (formerly Yellowpages.com), Fox News, News 12 Connecticut, and several public relations agencies. She also serves on the board of Staples Tuition Grants.

Joining the board as new members are Bob Boroujerdi, a former partner at Goldman Sachs who most recently served as a managing director at Third Point LLC; Mark Silverstein, an internet technology and media executive who has worked at Spotify, Luminary, and HuffPost; and Martina Sze, chief development officer at HealthVest.

Of the 20 Library board members, 10 are selected by the board itself. The other 10 are chosen by the Representative Town Meeting.

Top row (from left): Immediate past president Jeremy Price, president Barrie Rosen, secretary Melissa Banks. Bottom: new board members Mark Silverstein, Bob Boroujerdi and Martina Sze.

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Lou Weinberg was the Westport Rotary Club’s guest speaker yesterday.

The Westport Community Gardens director described the tight community of avid, organic gardeners that has evolved over their 20 years at the current site, just south of Long Lots Elementary School.

He also talked about the Long Lots Preserve, the project that has reclaimed overgrown town land surrounding the garden. It’s filled now with native plants, birds and insects (particularly bees).

Lou Weinberg, at the Westport Rotary Club. His slide show highlighted the Westport Community Gardens — and the gardeners who make up the community.

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Paul von Schmidt died on July 23, at 67. He was born in Westport to Peter and Annie von Schmidt, and lived in Collinsville, Connecticut.

Music was one of Paul’s greatest passions. After graduating from Staples High School, he studied  in Vermont to be a luthier. He opened a successful business in Barkhamsted, Connecticut, making and fixing stringed instruments.

He worked with Ovation Guitars. He also repaired guitars for music stores throughout the state, supporting and advocating for local musicians. He was a talented guitar player in his own right, too,

Paul was a talented chef (known for his homegrown, homemade hot sauces), artist and avid learner.

He is survived by his daughters Tara von Schmidt and Alissa Savage-Paul (Chris); grandchildren Alexandria Savage, Ariana Savage and Finn Paul; brother Christian, extended family, and countless friends.

His family says, “Paul’s life was defined by music, storytelling and good friendships. In his honor we encourage you to raise a glass, strum a guitar string, or plan your next adventure, just as he would have wanted.”

A celebration of his life will be held in Westport on August 22. Click here for more information. To plant a tree in Paul’s memory, click here. (Hat tip: JD Dworkow) 

Paul von Schmidt

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There are tons of beautiful waterfront gardens.

At the top of any list: Martin Greenberg and Becky Keeler’s, on the Saugatuck River.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature includes one small section of their gorgeous — and very green — property.

(Photo/Becky Keeler)

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And finally … Happy International Clown Week!

(“Isn’t it rich …?” Sure! Please click here to support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Library, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants

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Flying High, With Aiden Schachter

Posted on August 2, 2023 | 21 comments

My job as the founder/editor/publisher of “06880” has opened many doors.

Including the one on a Piper Cherokee 3-seater prop plane.

Last Saturday marked one of my most memorable mornings ever. I flew over Westport just after sunrise, enjoying a view of the beach, downtown and my home that is usually reserved for birds.

My pilot was Aiden Schachter — a rising senior at Staples High School.

He’s 17 years old. But Aiden is no ordinary kid.

After starting on a flight simulator in 7th grade,  he advanced to lessons. On his 16th birthday in March 2022, he soloed.

He flew a plane before he drove a car.

Last month — after studying hard for the oral, written and check ride tests, and 5 hours in the air performing landings, takeoffs, maneuvers, emergency prep for landing at unplanned locations and more — he earned his pilot’s license.

Aiden Schachter, the day he got his pilot’s license.

That’s not Aiden’s only accomplishment. He’s built a thriving national business building and selling LED lightclouds. And he’s a varsity wrestler.

Keep your eye on Aiden. He’s going places.

One of those places was Sikorsky Airport. When I met him early Saturday morning, he was in his element. He bantered easily with men and women who have worked at the Bridgeport facility for decades, then went to work filling out paperwork for the flight.

He strode confidently to the small plane.

He performed his pre-flight checklist with utter seriousness. He explained everything about the plane to me in the manner of any experienced pilot (without the fake drawl).

He communicated with the air traffic controller. He revved the engine.

And off we flew!

We cruised at 3,500 feet, around 115 miles an hour.

The world looks different from that height.

Bridgeport’s Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater and Total Mortgage Arena are at the lower left.

Two things stand out: the amount of water. It’s everywhere: the Sound, rivers, tidal ponds, backyard pools.

Sherwood Mill Pond, with tiny Hummock Island (left center). At the bottom is Old Mill; the footbridge leads to Compo Cove (right). Above it: Sherwood Island State Park.

Compo Beach packs a lot into a (relatively) small space. Above it: Gray’s Creek, and the Longshore golf course.

Cockenoe Island. Saugatuck Shores is at left; Compo Beach is at the top, just below Owenoke and Gray’s Creek.

And the amount of greenery. It’s no wonder the power goes out so often. Trees are everywhere; at least a few of them are bound to fall.

The Longshore pools, marina and golf course are on the left; Gray’s Creek and Owenoke next to it, on the right.

It’s actually possible, from 3,500 feet, to see the border between Bridgeport and Fairfield, then Fairfield and Westport. The size of residential lots changes that dramatically.

Aiden gave me a full tour of our town.

There were fresh perspectives everywhere. One example: Downtown — which occupies such an outsized part of our mental picture of Westport, along with plenty of debate and economic power — takes up a tiny area of real estate.

The Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge leads to downtown. The Giegerich office on Riverside Avenue is the large white building; the Levitt Pavilion is across the Saugatuck River, to the right.

Parker Harding Plaza (bottom); above it, Main Street, Bedford Square and Church Lane. The Post Road is on the right. 

Winslow Park. That’s the Westport Country Playhouse and Playhouse Square (left); at the top left is the Gorham Island office building.

Saugatuck is another part of town that punches far above its weight, relative to its actual geographic size.

Saugatuck, looking west. The railroad station and I-95 are at left; the Cribari Bridge and then Saugatuck Rowing Club are to the right. In the distance are Norwalk’s Avalon apartments (formerly Norden). 

Aiden says that Staples High School is the biggest building in town.

Staples High School is bordered by Paul Lane Field, Loeffler Field, Jinny Parker Field — and plenty of trees. 

The Aquarion water tanks on North Avenue stand out in what seems from the air to be a forest. They’re a lot more conspicuous at ground level. (All photos/Dan Woog)

There are 17-year-old drivers I’d never get in a car with.

But flying with Aiden Schachter? My heart soars like an eagle.

Taking off …

… mid-flight …

… and landing. (In-flight photos/GoPro) 

(Every day with “06880” is a new adventure. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Staples HS, Transportation, Westport life

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Pic Of The Day #2296

Posted on August 1, 2023 | 1 comment

Sherwood Island geese (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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Roundup: Bobcats, Long Lots, Parks & Rec …

Posted on August 1, 2023 | 6 comments

Bobcats have recolonized this area for over a decade. Numerous recent sightings have caused alarm on social media.

According to the Westport Police Department, bobcats are “generally unobtrusive neighbors. They are very focused on finding prey, which primarily consists of rodents like mice, rats, chipmunks, squirrels and rabbits. They also prey upon young or infirm deer.

“Bobcats avoid conflict with humans and pets, but could pose a threat to small, unattended dogs, particularly if the dog were to chase the cat.”

Police recommend close supervision of small pets. Dogs smaller than 35 to 40 pounds can be at risk from coyotes, particularly if the dog is older.

“Bobcats generally retreat from encounters with dogs, but there is potential for a dangerous encounter if the cat is cornered,” police say.

“As we enter late summer, parent coyotes and bobcats leave their denning areas.  Several citizens have seen bobcat kittens and coyote pups playing in their yards. These juvenile animals pose no threat to humans, and they will gradually become more wary of people as they get older.

“Any time you see a coyote or bobcat in your yard, it is advisable to keep your pets indoors for a few hours, then walk the dog on a lead when going out. Bobcats and coyotes typically cover a fair amount of ground each day, and they move on quickly.

“The same hazing strategies used for coyotes (high-decibel storm whistle or air horn) are effective for bobcats. If you are concerned about frequent sightings, or would like more information, contact Westport Animal Control: 203-341-5076.”

Bobcat (Photo/Sean Hogan)

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Tonight’s Long Lots School Building Committee special meeting (Tuesday, August 1, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 309) begins with public comment and/or questions about the project.

An agenda revision posted yesterday notes that the public comment portion of the agenda will be limited to 15 minutes.

Members then meet for a work session with the design team, for project status updates and review. The public can attend the work session, but cannot participate.

Long Lots Elementary School.

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Seasonal employees — lifeguards, marina staffs and guest services workers — are the summer lifeblood of Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department.

Yesterday evening, those young men and women were treated to a pizza dinner at (appropriately) Compo’s South Beach.

Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore joined department officials in saying “thanks” to the crews that guard the Sound and Longshore pool, greet visitors, and keep our town jewels shining.

Some of the guests at yesterday’s “thank you” party. Parks & Recreation officials included (far left) deputy director Rick Giunta and aquatics director Danilo Sierra-Giraldo and, from far right, waterfront operations foreman Michael Giunta and operations director Carm Roda. (Photo/Dan Woog

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Check out the new “06880” header (the photo at the top of our home page).

The beach sunset/moonrise photo comes courtesy of Chris Harris. Enjoy it below, too:

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A webinar on how to lower energy costs is set for Thursday (August 3, 6 p.m.).

Representatives from the federal Department of Energy and state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will describe a variety of money-saving programs.

The online event is sponsored by Congressman Jim Himes. Click here for the link (visible when the webinar begins).

Need help paying for solar panels? Find out how at Thursday’s webinar.

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Friday’s Tacombi fundraiser for Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services just got even better.

In addition to a sneak peek at the sure-to-be-hot new Mexican restaurant on the Post Road near Southport — and an opportunity to support one of our town’s most important organizations — guests will be entertained by Jake Bernard.

The 2011 Staples High School graduate — known then as Jake Yarmoff — will add his own special touch to the evening.

The event begins at 5:30 p.m. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Jake Bernard

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Speaking of new restaurants: Emmy Squared opens August 21.

The Brooklyn-based restaurant is known for its “Detroit-style pizza”: square, crisp bottom, fluffy dough, cheesy crust and sauce strpes.

Their double-stack burger — served on a pretzel bun — was named one of the “20 Best Burgers in New York” by The Infatuation.

There are 8 location: New York, Nashville, Philadelphia, Washington and Louisville. Number 9 is the site of the now-closed Amis Trattoria, in Bedford Square.

Pizzas from Emmy Squared.

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Speaking of openings:

Tend comes to town tomorrow.

The “national dental provider that promises to make you look forward to the dentist” unveils its first Connecticut location at 1375 Post Road East (next to Ulta Beauty).

It’s the 25th overall in the nation. The dentists also have “studios” in New York, Washington, Boston, Atlanta and Nashville. They launched in 2019.

A press release says: “Tend is a full service dentistry that aims to serve all your oral care needs under one roof — from exams and cleanings to restorative care, oral surgery, orthodontics, cosmetic treatments and more. Tend is technology-driven, which means booking online is seamless, there are no wait times when you arrive because all intake is done digitally and in advance, and they even have an app so you can track your treatment journey at your fingertips.”

Tend works with “most major insurance providers.”

Tend’s Westport location is between Ulta Beauty and Balducci’s.

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Carl Addison Swanson reports that his August Book of the Month — “Fat People Are Harder to Kidnap” — is in its 2nd edition. It’s also been optioned to film.

Click here for all his books. Click the “Hush McCormick” tab for “Fat People.”

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This week’s “This Week in Weston” podcast features two of the town’s 1st Selectwomen.

Elected official Sam Nestor introduces Riley Crafts, the town’s “1st Selectwoman For A Day.” Seven-year-old Riley shares her impressions, experiences and questions about her experience.

Click below to listen to the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston production.

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The sun is out. Joe Carpenter’s scaevola enjoys every ray, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

(Photo/Joe Carpenter)

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And finally … in honor of Tend coming to Westport (story above):

(Horrors! You’ve forgotten to contribute to “06880”! Don’t fear — click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Education, Environment, Local business, Restaurants, Weston

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Westport Artists Offer Works To Support Lyman

Posted on August 1, 2023 | 1 comment

One of the highlights of the recent LymanAID fundraiser for Westport’s sister city was an art show.

Mark Yurkiw put out the call for contributions. Many fellow Artists Collective of Westport members responded.

Some works were Ukrainian-themed. Others were not.

All are very, very special.

Most of the artwork was bought by attendees at the event. But a few remain.

Now Mark and the Artists Collective are offering them for sale through “06880.” All proceeds from the donated works benefit Lyman thanks to Ukraine Aid International, the Westport-founded organization that delivers relief directly where it’s needed most.

Available works are shown below, with estimated values. Readers are asked to offer at least 50% of the value — though, Mark says, “we hope you’ll be guided by your generosity to support the people in our war-torn sister city.”

Call 646-873-0050 to ensure that the art you hope to purchase is still available. You can also make an appointment to see the art in person, before buying.

When you are ready to purchase, call 646-873-0050 to schedule a pick-up. You can then make your donation by clicking the Ukraine Aid International website. Under the “Designation” dropdown menu, select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.”

“These are the best of our local artists, whose work is collected far and wide, Mark says.

“Their donations are outstanding examples of their work. Their generosity is overwhelming. “We were bowled over by the quality of the artists, and the works they offered. All we can say is ‘wow’ and ‘thank you!'”

Browse away. Then call, donate, and pick up.

Our sister city of Lyman thanks you!

Miggs Burroughs: Miggs is a lifelong Westporter. His work is represented in museums, and has been exhibited and collected extensively. Click here for more work information on Miggs Burroughs.

“Buddha & Shrine” (above). This large lenticular photo is mounted and ready to hang (18”x 22”). Estimated value: $600-$900.This is a limited edition, signed by the artist on the reverse.

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Mark Yurkiw: “Yearning to Breathe Free” (above); sculpture, 4″ x 4″ x 4”; Plexiglass case mounted 3D print of original human size crouched Statue of Liberty; originally commissioned for coat drives that raised almost 2 million coats for the homeless. 3-D print signed for Ukraine. Estimated value: $250. Multiple limited edition 3-D printings are available.

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Norm Siegel’s work has been accepted by Ambassador Oksana Makarova at the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington. Norm primarily works in the photo realistic style. He offers 4 works. To see more, click here.

“Untitled” (above) depicts the colors of the Ukrainian flag, oozing red between the blue sky and yellow fields which the flag represents. Oil on canvas, 16″ x 20”; estimated value, $250-500.

“Twist and Shout” (above); photorealistic abstract, oil on canvas, 30″ x 30”; estimated value, $1500-2250.

“Russo’s Roses” (above); oil on canvas, 18″ x 24″; estimated value, $1000-1500.

Norm Siegel: “Ode to a Geode” (above); oil on canvas, framed, 26″ x 32″; estimated value, $1500-2,500.

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Suzanne Benton has exhibited her works extensively. Click here for more information.

“Morning (Taos Series)” (above); small acrylic abstract, framed borderless, 6″ x 6″; Estimated value, $100.

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George Radwan: To learn more about this artist, click here.

“Doorways” (above); sculpture mixed media, 4″ x 10″ x 11″. This is 1 out of 9 of an original series; each is a unique doorway. In this piece, the graphic “A” refers to anarchy. Estimated value, $1500-2000.

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Joanie Landau: To learn more about this artist, click here.

“We Need You Emma Lazarus” (above); digital collagraph, 20” x 20”; estimated value, $860. The title refers to the Statue of Liberty poem by Emma Lazarus.

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Lynne Arovas: To learn more about this artist, click here.

“Where Sky Meets Sea” (above); acrylic impasto painting, 13.5″ x 13.5”; framed and signed; estimated value, $300.

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David Black (1931-2022) worked in acrylic, and is widely collected. His career and talents included violinist, opera singer, actor, director, playwright, author and award-winning Broadway producer. This painting is donated by Wendy Van Wie to benefit Lyman in memory of David, who lived in Stonington.

“Provence, France” (above); large 38″ x 47” impressionist landscape, framed. Estimated value: $3500-5000.  

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Julie Leff: To learn more about this artist, click here.

“Serenity” (above); 27″ x 32” bouquet of photo realistic flowers; limited edition 2/25 digital print, with certificate of authenticity; framed. Estimated value: $450.

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Robert Anderson: “Portrait of my Wife” (above), 36″ x 36”; original acrylic airbrush painting; framed rounded walnut corners with linen beveled matt. Surreal figurative portrait of Mrs. Anderson. This style is identified as the most popular trend by ArtNet today, but it was painted c. 1982. It is donated in memory of the artist for Lyman, by Wendy Van Wie.

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Posted in Arts, Politics

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