If you’ve got 2 hours free on the afternoon of Saturday, March 11, you could save a life.
TAP Strength’s training session (3 to 5 p.m., 180 Post Road East) covers adult, child and infant CPR; AED training; obstructive airway management; personal safety; Connecticut’s Good Samaritan Law, and implied consent.
The cost is $50; $10 of each registration is donated to Westport EMS. For details, email nancy@tapstrength.com, or call 203-292-9353.
And finally … on this day in 1791, Congress admitted Vermont to the Union, effective March 4. it had existed for 14 years as a de facto independent, largely unrecognized state.
Staples High School Class of 1966 graduate Jon Gailmor has lived in Vermont since soon after leaving the much-loved folk duo Carlson & Gailmor (with Staples classmate Rob Carlson).
The singer-songwriter has earned renown for bringing muaic to all corners of the state. He runs writing workshops in schools and for adults; he performs, and he hosted a kids’ radio show. He’s been named an official Vermont treasure for his work.
Years ago, Jon wrote a love song to his adopted state. It’s one of the most beautiful tunes I’ve ever heard. And his lyrics nail it.
This week — as we near our 150th online art gallery — our “06880” artist/readers set a new record.
With 16 submissions, this is the most number of works we’ve run since the feature began. (It started early in the pandemic, as an outlet for everyone stuck at home.)
Thanks to all who participated this week — regulars and newcomers.
Remember: This is your feature. Everyone is invited to contribute. Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions.
All genres are encouraged. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage and (yes) needlepoint — whatever you’ve got, email it to 06880blog@gmail.com. Share your work with the world!
“Happy Hearts Day” (Rowene Weems
“Neurographic Heart” (Amy Schneider)
“Foggy Compo Companionship” (Andrew Colabella)
“Hugs to Westport” (Mona Brown)
Fairfield Furniture Store — now National Hall, 1970s (Diane Van Gelder, Staples High School Class of 1970)
“The Black Pearl” — mixed media (Peter Barlow)
Untitled — taken from a boat off the Napali Coast on Kauai, Hawaii (Robert Augustyn)
“Clouds or Waves?” (Pam Kesselman)
“Is This Seat Taken?” Photographer Mike Hibbard says, “This friendly spirit rides the train between Cusco, Peru and Machu Picchu.”
The issue of public beach access has been a topic of debate in Connecticut for many years. Connecticut’s shoreline is home to many private beaches, which are often inaccessible to the public.
The debate over public beach access in Connecticut dates back to the 1800s, when wealthy landowners began to build homes along the state’s shoreline. In the early 20th century, public pressure led to the creation of several state and local parks, which provided public access to some beaches.
However, the issue of public beach access remained contentious, and in the 1960s and 1970s, several lawsuits were filed in an attempt to secure public access to private beaches. In 1971, the Connecticut Supreme Court ruled in the case of Matthews v. Bay Head Improvement Association that the public has a right to access the beach up to the mean high water mark. This ruling established the so-called “public trust doctrine,” which states that the state holds certain natural resources, including tidal waters and the shore, in trust for the public.
In 1975, members of Ned Coll’s Revitalization Corps demonstrated in Old Saybrook, for access to the beach. (Photo courtesy of Bob Adelman)
Despite this ruling, public beach access in Connecticut remains a contentious issue, and many private beach associations continue to limit access to their beaches. In recent years, there have been efforts to increase public beach access through legislation and legal action. In 2021, for example, the Connecticut General Assembly passed a bill that requires beach associations to allow the public to use their beaches in exchange for tax breaks.
Overall, the history of public beach access in Connecticut has been marked by conflict and controversy, but there have been some positive developments in recent years that have increased access to the state’s beautiful coastline.
Public beach access in Connecticut involves both pros and cons.
Pros
Equal access: Public beach access ensures that all people, regardless of income or social status, have the right to enjoy the state’s natural resources. This creates a more equitable and inclusive society, and allows everyone to enjoy the beauty and benefits of the state’s coastline.
Economic benefits: Public beach access can have positive economic impacts on local communities, as it can attract visitors, boost tourism, and support local businesses such as restaurants and hotels. This can result in increased revenue and employment opportunities.
Environmental protection: Public beach access can promote environmental protection and conservation, as it raises public awareness about the importance of preserving natural resources, such as beaches, dunes, and coastal habitats. This can encourage people to be more responsible and respectful towards the environment.
There is plenty of room at Compo Beach. But how crowded is “too” crowded? (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)
Cons
Cost: Providing public beach access can be costly for towns and cities, as it requires investment in infrastructure, maintenance, and staff. This can be a burden on local budgets, and may result in higher taxes or fees for residents.
Overcrowding: Public beach access can lead to overcrowding, especially during peak tourist season. This can result in congestion, traffic, and litter, which can negatively impact the environment and the quality of the beach experience.
Property rights: Some people argue that public beach access infringes on property rights of private beach owners, who have invested in maintaining and improving their beaches. They argue that it is unfair to force them to allow access to their beaches, which can result in security and liability issues.
Overall, public beach access in Connecticut can provide a range of benefits, but it also has some challenges and limitations. The debate over how to balance the interests of property owners, local communities, and the general public is ongoing, and requires careful consideration of the potential impacts and trade-offs involved.
Interesting, no? But I have a confession to make: I did not research or write this. Neither did an “06880” reader. Today’s post was generated entirely by ChatGPT, the chatbot launched in November that has electrified the world (and terrified educators).
My only involvement with today’s post was generating the questions for ChatGPT, selecting the photos, and writing the headline and this end note.
My takeaway: We have much more to fear from this new technology, than from opening our beaches to non-residents.
Nearly 15 years after his death — thanks to a new TV series and book — Paul Newman lives on.
I’m not sure where this came from. But it’s a reminder that — as world-famous as he was — the actor/director/race car driver/philanthropist was, at his heart, just our neighbor.
“If you lived in Westport between 1990 and 2010 and had kids, you knew the Driscolls.
“Frank coached football at the youth and high school levels. Pam raised their 3 kids: Tara (Staples High School Class of 1998), Brienne (SHS ’00) and Frisk (’05).
“Pam’s house was open not just to her kids’ close friends, but the entire community. She always treated each guest like they were family.
“Tara, Brienne and Frisk were all stellar athletes. They also volunteered their time coaching and working in the community.
“Tara worked at Staples High School as a teacher (she is now at Stamford High School). Brie mentored dozens of young men and women through some of their toughest times. Frisk coached the Staples swim team to some of their most successful season.
“They’ve given so much to our community. They were, are, and always will be what makes Westport, Westport.
“Like so many others, I would not be who I am without the care and guidance of the entire Driscoll family.
“Now it’s our turn to support them.
“Tara (last name now Karlson) lives in Redding with her husband Scott and children, Brien (11) and Kelly (9).
“In the middle of the night on Valentine’s Day, a fire ripped through their home as they slept. All 4 were hospitalized.
“Brien — the strong-willed fighter of the family, a lover of people and animals — suffered life-threatening injuries. After giving all he had, he died February 15.
“Tara and Scott are now experiencing every parent’s worst nightmare. Kelly lost a best friend and only sibling.
“While they work to recover from this unimaginable tragedy, they will need our help.
“We ask everyone to lift them in thoughts and prayers. We also hope people consider donating to the family’s recovery fund. Please click here for the GoFundMe link.
“For questions, or donations of larger physical items, email KarlsonFamilyFund@gmail.com.”
Westporters and Westonites will pay slightly more for summer-long access to Westport beaches — and residents outside of those towns substantially less — if a decision by the Parks & Recreation Commission is approved by the Board of Selectwomen.
On Wednesday night, the board voted 4-0 to:
Raise the fee for an annual beach sticker for Westport residents from $50 to $60 ($30 for seniors and disabled residents, up from $25).
Raise the fee for Weston residents to $415 from $375 ($220 for Weston seniors, up from $200).
Lower the fee for “non-residents” to $545, from $775. The number of those stickers sold will rise to 450, from the current limit of 350.
Debate over the new fee structure did not include any references to a proposal in the Connecticut General Assembly to limit the fees any municipality can charge for town-owned beach parking to not more than twice the fees charged to residents.
Parks & Rec director Jennifer Fava said this would be the first change to the fee structure in 6 years.
Beach stickers are cheaper for Westporters than non-residents. (Photo/Mark Marcus)
Peter Reid plays 2 important roles: Westport animal control officer, and intake director for Weston’s Wildlife in Crisis.
On Monday — in his WIC role — he freed a buck from climbing netting draped between trees in a Weston back yard.
On Wednesday, wearing his Westport animal control cap, he was called by a Long Lots area resident about a vulture ensnared in soccer netting.
With a vulture clan circled overhead, Reid cut him free and brought him to Wildlife in Crisis. The raptor suffered severe talon abrasions, but will be okay. He is resting with skilled caretakers, and will be released when fully recovered.
These are the most recent incidents demonstrating the hazards that netting-type structures in yards and around town present to wildlife.
Julie Loparo — president of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates, who passed along these stories — says, “residents should be aware of such hazards and, whenever possible, remove them or flatten them when not in use.”
Bruce Salvo died last fall. But there was no obituary for the longtime Westport resident, noted architect and avid Westport Weston Family YMCA member.
Vanessa Costanzo offers this remembrance:
Bruce Salvo was a longtime family friend.
He was so kind to my kids and animals. Bruce often dog sat or cat sat for me. and for friends as well. He always sent pictures to us to let us know how they were.
Bruce spent several holidays with our family. He was always gracious and kind. He valued those close friendships, and went out of his way to help in any way.
A few times a year, Bruce dropped off flowers from his beautiful garden in a bud vase. He was an incredible gardener, and took great pride in his garden (which was absolute perfection).
As an architect, Bruce helped us with work we were doing on our house any time we asked. He would come by, and we would talk at length about the highs and lows of life.
The last time I saw him he was struggling with illness, but he always inspired me by his strength, sensitivity and value of life. I am a better person, and my family and friends are better people for having him in our lives.
Bruce and his life here should be honored now and forever.
At Staples High School, the Class of 2001 member captained the football team, and ran track. He played piano, drums and violin, and sang in the choir.
Matt Makovsky, in the 2001 Staples High School yearbook …
He continued playing football at the University of Pennsylvania, earned a degree from Columbia Business School, then built a career in London and New York working for the National Football League, and launching his own marketing and innovation agency.
He hadn’t picked up an instrument since Staples. But Makovsky was invited to a friend’s studio session as a guest.
He was convinced to hop in the booth. Hearing himself through a recording mic, he was transported back to his long-ago love of music.
He set up a home studio. He wrote songs. But he kept working as CEO with Skylabs, an innovation firm.
“I’d get my teeth kicked in by a client,” he says. “Then I’d go home and write 2, 3 or 4 hours a night. It helped me in business. But I reached a breaking point.”
… and now.
Calling himself MAK, he released 3 albums. They include influences of pop, R&B, reggaeton and electro.
His new single may mean the most to him.
He wrote “You’re The Reason” as a tribute to his mother. She’s battling cancer.
He gave it to her privately, then released it on YouTube. In just 2 weeks, it’s found an audience. In just 3 weeks, it’s been viewed nearly 300,000 times.
The Comments section is filled with touching praise. Much of it comes from moms — and their children — who had never heard an artist honor his mother this way.
“It’s a universal song,” MAK says.
“Anyone who has that someone in their life who is the reason they are who they are can relate to it.”
He credits his parents with exposing him to “so much at a young age.” His mother nurtured his interests, and supported him as he pursued his many dreams.
“To get the opportunity to pay my love back to my mom through my music is a treasured gift for me, coming full circle,” MAK says.
“I had never written a song dedicated to one person,” the Brooklyn-based artist says. His mother put herself through Harvard University, and had a career as a teacher.
“That challenge was daunting. But I didn’t go looking for this project. It became apparent that the most powerful love language I had to translate my feelings and emotions to my mom was through this song.”
MAK adds, “The lyrics are deeply personal, while telling a story that anyone can relate to. I wrote this song for my mom, but I realized along the way that it was not only for her and me. It could be your mom, or anyone in your life that is the reason you are who you are.”
MAK teamed up once again with his friend, producer Yonatan Watts. He said, “something just feels right about this track. These nostalgic piano chords over an upbeat rock synth and drums feel sentimental, while getting your energy up at the same time. It was the perfect vibe for MAK to celebrate his mom to.
“You’re The Reason”’s AI-enhanced music video intriguingly fuses a storybook tail of MAK and his mom with oil-painted Impressionist art, synthwave aesthetics and artificially enhanced scenes.
Westporters have plenty of fundraising galas to choose from.
All are worthy. Nearly all are well-organized, and fun.
But for inspiration and impact, few compare with A Better Chance of Westport’s Dream Event.
ABC — the program that provides both a home and an educational opportunity for up to 8 outstanding and academically-gifted young men of color each year — celebrates its 20th year on April 1 (7 p.m., Pinstripes at the SoNo Collection, Norwalk).
There are cocktails, dinner, entertainment, a silent auction — all important elements at many fundraisers — plus bowling at Pinstripes’ 12 lanes.
But what sets the Dream Event apart from many other galas are the speeches. Hearing about A Better Chance’s life-changing power — directly from those involved — is well worth the ticket price.
Funds are used for housing, tutoring, transportation and other expenses that getting the ABC scholars through Staples High School, and on to college.
Tickets available for cocktail/dinner only or cocktails/dinner and bowling. Click here for details.
The Weston History & Culture Center (aka Weston Historical Society) celebrates by co-hosting a lecture. “Powerful Voices: Connecticut Women Changing Democracy,” with Sarah Lubarsky, director of the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame.
The free event is is set for March 15 (7 p.m., Weston Public Library).
Among Connecticut’s most powerful women: suffrage advocates Alice Paul and Isabella Beecher Hooker, prominent firsts like Ella Grasso and Denise Nappier, and social activists like Helen Keller, Anne Stanback and Estelle Griswold.
Helen Keller lived for many years on the Westport/Easton border.
A celebration of life service honoring Peter Nathan is set for March 12 (11 a.m., Fairfield County Hunt Club). The former Representative Town Meeting member and longtime civic volunteer died last month.
Peter’s friends and family will share memories, and celebrate his impact on everyone he met. Attendees should wear bright colors, to contribute to the spirit.
The raised runway event — held in the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum on March 4 (7 p.m.) — showcases the town’s fashion and beauty merchants. The Westport Downtown Association-sponsored event also raises important funds for Homes with Hope.
Click here for more information. VIP tickets include light bites, DJ and gifts.
Connecticut’s 2023 legislative session has begun. Several proposed bills would impact Westport.
At the committee level — where they are now — residents can comment in person at hearings, or via Zoom.
However, once a bill is voted out of committee, only written testimony is permitted.
Danielle Dobin wants to make sure Westporters know about one proposed bill in particular. She chairs our Planning & Zoning Commission. But — writing as a private citizen — she says:
Tomorrow (Friday, February 17), the Planning & Development Committee will discuss HB 6650: “An Act Concerning Public Access to Coastal Resources.”
In a nutshell, this proposal would limit the fees a municipality can charge for town-owned beach parking to not more than twice the fees charged to residents. Click here for the full text of the bill.
Last summer in Westport, residents were charged $50 for a seasonal beach pass; non-residents paid $775 (or $375, for Westonites). The Parks & Recreation Commission met last night, to discuss lowering the out-of-town, non-Weston fee to $545.
If the state legislature bill is adopted, the fee for non-residents would be capped at $100 for the season — or not more than two times whatever residents pay, if Westport changes that fee.
Beach stickers are cheaper for Westporters than non-residents. (Photo/Mark Marcus)
If the bill is adopted by the legislature, there are obvious implications regarding both revenue and parking access for residents.
At the same time, our beaches will be more accessible to people who can’t afford to park there now.
As a state, how do we strike the right balance between ensuring access for residents whose tax dollars pay for significant investment to maintain and improve our coastal resources, while ensuring that people who lack the resources for a $775 annual pass or costly day pass can still go to the beach with their families?
While in Westport, the train station provides free parking that’s walkable to Compo on the weekend, many other towns in the state lack this infrastructure.
Please consider sharing your thoughts with the legislature. But do so quickly. You must register to testify by 3 p.m. today (Thursday, February 16) in order to provide verbal testimony either via zoom or in-person. Submitting written testimony as soon as possible is also recommended.
Click here for a guide to signing up to testify. Click here for the “Bulletin” referred to in the link above; then scroll down to view the Planning & Development Committee meeting on Friday, February 17 in order to register.
(Keeping up with state politics is no day at the beach. Please click here to help “06880” continue our work.)
Lots may fill more quickly with lower daily fees. (Photo/Matt Murray)
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