It’s been 3 years since Jen Tooker was elected 1st Selectwoman.
Exactly 3/4 of the way through her term, now is a great time to welcome her back to “06880: The Podcast.”
Last week, she stopped by the Westport Library to chat. Our conversation ranged from the general (what’s surprised you about the job? what have you learned about the town? what are the challenges?) to the specifics: the capital plan (and how to pay for it), affordable housing (and where it will be built), and of course traffic (what can we do about it?).
Click below to hear the town’s top elected official talk about what’s on the top of her mind.
The 2017 Staples High School graduate — believed to be the first former Wrecker ever to reach baseball’s Major Leagues — now goes to the ultimate games.
And he’s one reason they’re there.
Called up from the minors in August, Casparius has proven to be a reliable relief pitcher. Last night he threw 1 1/3 innings, allowing 2 hits, walking 1 but giving up no runs, as the Dodgers beat the New York Mets 10-5.
And Casparius — one of 7 LA pitchers — was credited with the win. It was his first in MLB.
Jeff Mitchell explains: “If the starting pitcher does not complete at least 5 innings and leaves the game with a lead that the team maintains, the official scorer will decide which relief pitcher is credited with the win.
“The scorer typically awards the win to the relief pitcher who was the most effective in preserving the lead during the game. Because no relief pitcher pitched more innings than Ben (1 1/3) nor had a better ERA (0.00), Ben was awarded it.
“I highly doubt any pitcher in the history of baseball has won a post-season game with fewer regular season appearances. Ben had appeared in just 3 regular season games, and now has appeared in 4 post-season games.
“However, rumors are that Dodger relievers Brusdar Graterol and Alex Vesia might be well enough to return for the World Series. That means they would need to replace 1 or 2 relievers currently on the roster.
“Ben is not assured to be back on the starting roster. But I think he’ll be in the dugout to be used in case of injury.”
Here’s the clubhouse scene, after the game:
Meanwhile, as the California team battled to reach the World Series — against the New York Yankees — most folks assumed the Connecticut native had grown up rooting for either the Yanks or the Mets.
Nope.
Yesterday’s Boston Globe reported:
Dodgers rookie righthander Ben Caspariusgrew up in Westport, Conn., which is Yankees territory. But he was a Red Sox fan.
“My father is from Maine and he and my mom went to Northeastern,” Casparius said. “So I always liked the Sox.”
The Globe added:
Casparius was a two-way player at North Carolina then transferred to UConn to focus on pitching.
It was a good decision. He had a 3.36 ERA as a starter in Triple A this season, made his major league debut as a reliever, and worked 3 scoreless innings in his first 2 postseason games, striking out 4 and not allowing a hit.
His message from manager Dave Roberts?
“Just be myself,” Casparius said. “It’s just another day in baseball, nothing needs to change, or reinvent the wheel or try anything new. And really just to soak it all in and just take in every moment. Enjoy it.”
Casparius hit 97 miles per hour with his fastball against the Mets in Game 3 of the NLCS. While his work has not been in high-leverage spots, Casparius picking up outs has helped the other relievers get some rest.
(Hat tip: Jeff Booth)
Ben Casparius (screenshot courtesy of Dave Briggs)
Speaking of sports: Members of the Staples High School boys and girls soccer teams, and the field hockey squad, joined many other Westporters yesterday morning, at the annual Push Against Cancer event.
The giant push-up festival raises funds to support The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, aiding children with serious illnesses.
First selectwoman Jen Tooker was there to support the cause, and event founder Andy Berman.
Gail Bernstein — who in her more than 30 years as benefits coordinator for the town of Westport solved many problems, made life better for countless employees, and earned great respect — died peacefully at her Fairfield home on Thursday, surrounded by her family. She was 89.
She is survived by her sons Paul (April) and Douglas; sister Judy (Dan); nephews Jeffrey (Jo), Matthew (Paloma), Rob (Jennifer), Peter (Scott), David (Linda); niece Martha; step-grandchildren Michael, Emily and Jason; grandnieces Sabrina and Nicole; grandnephew Michael, and other extended family and friends.
A funeral service will be held Tuesday (October 22, 12 noon, Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield). Burial will follow in Lawncroft Cemetery. F
Friends and family may visit at the funeral home from 10 a.m. to noon on Tuesday. Click here to leave an online condolence note.
Gail Bernstein
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Bees do it.
Cooperate, that is.
Nancy Vener provides an up-close-and-very-personal look, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … in honor of Ben Casparius’ Boston Red Sox fandom:
(Good times never seem so good as when you’re part of our great “06880” community. If you enjoy our hyper-local blog, please consider supporting our work. Just click here. Thank you!)
When Jen Fava resigned as Parks & Recreation Department director this spring, deputy director Rick Giunta — a native Westporter — took over as interim director. The transition was smooth and productive.
Giunta tells “06880”: “It has been both an honor and a privilege to serve as the interim director over the past 5 months. However, due to personal reasons, I have chosen to step back into my role of deputy director.
“I’ll continue to support the department to the best of my ability, as the search for a permanent director continues. I’m looking forward to working with and supporting the future leadership of the department as we move forward.”
A new director has not yet been named.
Rick Giunta
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Westport 10 — the town’s networking and social organization for Black men and their families — met yesterday, at Jay Norris and Chirag Shah’s Content Studio in Saugatuck.
Guests includes State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, and Police Chief Foti Koskinas.
Westport 10 — whose numbers are far more than that — has an active fall planned.
Among the activities: a meeting with merchants through the Westport Downtown Association (October 23), Halloween masquerade ball (October 30), holiday party and more.
At yesterday’s Westport 10 meeting (from left): Ted Parker, Adam Moore, Trey Ellis, Gene Massie, Jay Norris, Chirag Shah, CD Glin, Rene Hart, Anil Nair, Police Chief Foti Koskinas.
“Westport Uncorked” — the Sunrise Rotary Club wine tasting event (with great food, and non-alcoholic beverages) that has become one of our town’s most popular events, returns to The Inn at Longshore on October 24 (6 to 9 p.m.).
Attendees can taste 100 wines, curated by The Fine Wine Company of Westport. (Well, there will be 100 wines available, anyway.)
Fine Wine Company experts will be on hand to answer questions. Any of the wines can be ordered for delivery.
Every dollar raised goes to charities supported by Westport Sunrise Rotary. Tickets are limited. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
In other Sunrise Rotary news, the club hosted 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker yesterday morning.
She asked members what issues they were most interested in hearing updates about. Among them: affordable housing, traffic, downtown plan, schools, handicapped access, Longshore upgrades, the Community Gardens and Long Lots Preserve, Cribari Bridge, Saugatuck River dredging, and road and sidewalk construction in town.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, at the Sunrise Rotary Club.
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The Westport Library has launched its 2024-25 annual appeal. The fundraising goal of $325,000 would secure full funding for the Library’s operations, and allow it to continue to provide the vast majority of programming for free or low cost.
The town of Westport funds 77% of the Library’s operating budget. The remaining 23% is raised through special events and private donations, like those provided during the annual appeal.
The Library welcomes 350,000 visitors a year. The theme for this year’s appeal is “Invest in Lifelong Learning.”
Click here to donate to the appeal, and for more information.
The 1st anniversary of Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel will be honored with a community gathering tomorrow (Sunday, October 6, 12 to 3 p.m., Compo Beach).
The event includes words and songs (1:30 p.m.). 101 chairs will represent the hostages still held in Gaza.
The public is invited.
These chairs at Compo Beach represented the hostages held last November, a month after the Hamas attack. (Photo/Mia Bomback)
Long time resident Jo Ann Miller has put away her paint brushes and is pounding away at the keyboard.
Her initial novella. “Terrorist Vengeance,” is doing so well that she is out with another short story. “Eulogy” describes the passing of a wannabe billionaire who is hardly praised by his 4 wives and 4 children at his funeral.
“Funny, witty and a super read,” praises the Houston Chronicle. It will be available on Amazon soon.
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Today (Saturday, 11 a.m to 1 p.m.), the Westport Weston Family YMCA celebrates its 10th anniversary of the Bedford Family Center at its Mahackeno site.
The family event includes bounce houses, crafts, live entertainment with a magician, refreshments including birthday cake, and giveaways.
Now that the presidential and vice presidential debates are over, you can watch another one, live and in person, right here at Town Hall.
On Thursday (October 10, 7 p.m),, Westport’s League of Women Voters hosts candidates for State Senate District 26, and State Representative District 136.
Questions can be sent in advance to lwvwestportct@yahoo.com.
The debate is co-sponsored by the PTA Council, Westport Sunshine Rotary Club, Y’s Men, Y’s Women and Westport Rotary Club.
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The Joggers Club has moved back to Compo Beach.
All members are welcome; no beach sticker is needed.
The group meets every Saturday at 8 a.m. Weekly runs can be found on their Strava, Facebook and Instagram pages.
Dues are $50 a year. New members get a free Lululemon shirt ($68 retail). Click here for more information.
Longtime Westport resident Barbara Macieski died peacefully at home on Wednesday. She was 89.
The Bronx native earned a degree in history at the University of Bridgeport, where she met her future husband Ford Macieski.
They were great dance partners. Barbara was also known for her excellent taste in shows to stream and books to read.
Barbara had a career in commercial lending, but her true joy were her 6 children, 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
Her family says, “She guided us, nurtured us, healed us, admonished us, and cheered with us our individual and collective good fortune. A confidante, a therapist, a financial advisor, and an ear to hear our trials and tribulations. We all checked in with her daily.”
Barbara was predeceased by her husband Ford and daughter Katy. She is survived by her children Lisa Mann (Russ), Robert, Daniel (Karen), Joanne Carpenter (husband Rick) and Jessica Aysseh (Alex); grandchildren Katy Mann (Ben Bien-Kahn), Samuel Macieski, Kevin Carpenter (Maggie Rogers), Benjamin Macieski, Becky Wiezik (Don), Maggie DelPresto (Jeff), Ellie Mann, Maddy Mann, Coco Aysseh and Lilly Aysseh, and great-grandchildren Ford Wiezik, Leo Mann, Theo DelPresto and Ford Carpenter.
Memorial contributions may be made to LIV IT UP, which provides support services and programming for neuro-diverse adults.
Barbara Macieski (4th from left), with her children.
And finally … in honor of Westport Sunrise Rotary’s “Uncorked” fundraiser October 24 at The Inn at Longshore (story above):
(If you think there’s nothing to do in Westport, you’re not reading “06880.” If you ARE reading this hyper-local blog — which of course you’re doing now — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
To the chagrin of many builders, homeowners, architects and others who have worked with her, Mary Young is stepping down as Planning & Zoning Department director. Her last day is Friday.
Mary tells “06880”:
It has been an immense honor and privilege to serve the residents of Westport since 2002. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years. When you love what you do, it hardly feels like work, and I truly cherished my time here.
Land use decision-making is inherently a collaborative process, and Westport is fortunate to have residents who are dedicated to volunteering their time for the greater good and shaping a brighter future. I have been blessed to collaborate with countless unsung heroes who tirelessly advocate for transparency and meaningful change.
As I step aside, I sincerely hope that the residents of Westport will embrace my successor, who has truly earned this position. I believe my legacy will thrive in her continued success. Thank you all for your support and commitment to the Westport community.
I’d like to add my personal thanks to Mary. She has always treated the media with fairness and respect. She is quick to respond to questions, always forthright, and extremely knowledgeable. Thank you, Mary, for making my job easier — and for always having Westport’s best interests in mind.
The annual Halloween window painting contest returns Saturday, October 26.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce is looking for painters for the popular 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. event.
Elementary and middle school children paint a store window they request, or that is assigned to them.
Elementary and middle schools winners in 3 categories — Scariest Art Work, Best Halloween Theme and Most Original — earn gift certificates. Click here to sign up.
That’s just the start. On October 29, the Parks & Recreation Department’s annual Halloween Parade begins at 3:30 p.m., at the Post Road East/Main Street intersection.
Costumed kids will walk to Avery Place, then enjoy festivities on Veterans Green across from Town Hall.
Westport resident Dave Briggs films intriguing videos for Cheddar, the business, finance and tech website.
The other day he was at a New York location of Dig, the Northeast restaurant chain. Dave was shooting a story on Bite, whose AI-powered kiosks are found at quick-serve spots everywhere.
Chatting with Bite CEO Brandon Barton about the advantages of self-service — ease and comfort; more opportunities for add-sons; “friction-less and pressure-less,” and of course potential cost savings — Dave learned that Barton is also a Westporter.
But that’s not all. Turns out Dig founder Adam Eskin also lives here.
Sounds like Dig needs to open a location here. Then Dave can tape another video, without any of the principals leaving town.
Screenshot of Dave Briggs (left) with Brandon Barton.
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Last year’s Volunteer Fair was a great success.
This year’s event (Saturday, October 5, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m,, Westport Library), will be even bigger and better.
The adult and youth fairs are combined into one, presenting even more opportunities for volunteerism with many non-profits, organizations, and town boards and commissions. Education, housing, government, youth, seniors, the environment — those interests, and many others, are all represented.
Adult and teen attendees can speak with staff members, and sign up for volunteer opportunities. Click here for more information.
Last year’s Volunteer Fair, at the Westport Library.
Got an old vehicle you’d like to get rid of, but refuse to donate it to 1-800-KarsForKids because they’ve tortured us with the most obnoxious jingle in the history of advertising for the past 20 years?
The Westport Fire Department wants you! (And yours.)
They train for life-saving rescues by using donated cars and trucks.
Any make, model or condition is fine. It can be damaged, even non-working.
Like NPR, they’ll even tow it for free.
For more information — or to cut right to the chase, and schedule a pickup — call 203-341-5003, or email jkronenberger@westportct.gov.
Westport firefighters practice on a donated vehicle. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)
This Sunday (October 6, 11 a.m., meeting at the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot), the Westport chapter of RunForTheirLives commemorates the first anniversary of Hamas’ October 7 massacre in Israel with a “peaceful and apolitical march through town.”
Marchers will carry signs to remember the 101 hostages who remain in captivity. They’ll be joined by local clergy from different denominations, and community leaders.
Every Sunday for a year, residents have marched through town, in all kinds of weather.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker’s newest “In Focus” newsletter has been posted to the town website.
Among the items: an update on the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee’s work, and a reminder about illegal clear-cutting, filling and dumping in and near wetlands and watercourses.
The Westport Police Department’s “Coffee with a Cop” yesterday morning, at McDonald’s, was a great success.
Many patrons stopped for a chat with our officers. There were smiles all around.
And no tickets.
One “06880” reader appreciates the outreach, but offers a suggestion for next time: Choose a locally owned coffee shop, rather than one of the biggest chains in the world.
Coffee and conversation. (Photo courtesy of Westport Police Department)
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Speaking of cops: Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between September 25 and October 2.
A 40-year-old man from Nutley, New Jersey and a 32-year-old man from Paterson, New Jersey were charged with larceny, and criminal attempt to commit larceny, following a shoplifting at Ulta Beauty. Officer stopped the suspects’ vehicle on Post Road East, near the Fairfield line. A female suspect has been identified, and is being investigated.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 10 citations
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 6
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 6
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 5
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulation: 5
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 4
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
Traveling too fast for conditions: 2
Following too closely: 2
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 2
Improper use of marker plates: 2
Reckless endangerment: 1
Transporting a child 5-8 years old, 40-60 pounds without restraints: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
Unreadable plates: 1
Failure to cancel registration: 1
Illegal operation by a motor carrier: 1
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Over the last 15 years, the Push Against Cancer fundraiser has grown from a small community fundraiser to a giant push-up festival raising funds to support The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, aiding children with serious illnesses.
Hundreds of Westporters will join the push-up marathon on Sunday, October 20 (8 a.m., Staples High School).
Registration starts at $40 per participant. It includes Push Against Cancer gear, and a fundraising web page to engage friends and family. Click here to sign up, and for more information.
Unite the World With Africa Foundation‘s Westport supporters are collecting medical supplies for Kitanga, a small Tanzanian village that is accessible only by water.
Items needed include stethoscopes; blood pressure machines; pulse oximeters; green, dark blue or black scrubs (small); glucometers and hemoglobinometers.
Odds are, you don’t have any of those lying around your house.
No problem!
Click here; the select the “Unite Medical” address at checkout to have the items shipped directly.
If you actually have them on hand — or want them shipped to you — you can drop them off at Village Pediatrics, 323 Riverside Avenue.
Residents of Kitanga, Tanzania need medical supplies.
“Moms in Security” — a Westport-based nonprofit focused on ending human trafficking and child exploitation — hosts a fundraising 5K walk at Compo Beach Saturday (8 a.m.).
All ages are invited. Click here to register or donate. All proceeds support Moms in Security’s programs and initiatives.
Jaime Hastings, executive director of the Arthur Miller Foundation, spoke Tuesday to the Westport Rotary Club.
For the past 10 years, the Arthur Miller Foundation has been increasing equitable access to quality theater education for public school students by certifying and supporting teachers to build sustainable in-school theater programs.
They currently support theater teachers in New York City, Bridgeport, and Norwalk Public Schools.
Sure, we posted a great bee photo on Monday, right here in “Westport … Naturally.”
But this one is equally cool. Photographer Jen Greely says: “This early fall scene in my garden shows 3 bees nectaring from a single dahlia. I guess it’s more fun with friends.”
And finally … between Tanzania, Israel, schools in Bridgeport and Norwalk, and stories in our own back yard, today’s Roundup proves once again that “06880” is truly “where Westport meets the world.” So …
(If you enjoy learning about Westport — and the world — through “06880,” please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Yesterday — after years of fundraising and preparation — VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 began dredging its 50-year-old marina.
The Saugatuck River project will restore the 34-slip marina, a task required every 20 years to maintain its functionality and safety.
The initial phase began with Post members dismantling the existing marina, in preparation for the digging to start next week.
“We’re very excited and relieved that we are finally moving forward,” says Post 399 quartermaster Phil Delgado.
“With growing local membership and more visiting veterans taking advantage of our offerings, we realized this project was essential to ensuring our financial future.
“We will create a space where veterans, their friends and the community can enjoy the fantastic views of the Saugatuck River.”
Dock work on the Saugatuck.
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Restaurant Week begins today.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual event runs through Sunday, October 13. Yes, that’s 2 weeks. I guess “Restaurant Fortnight” sounds too confusing, in this video game age.
One of the 20 restaurants — Rizzuto’s — has added something special to its prix fixe menu.
Owner Bill Rizzuto has planned a “throwback menu” to the days the Riverside Avenue spot was Manero’s. (It was later several other restaurants, including John Harvard’s and Conte’s.)
It features a buttery garlic bread basket, prime rib, and (of course) Manero’s beloved gorgonzola salad with each main course dish.
They’ll also serve “dividend martinis and Manhattans.”
For a full list of all participating restaurants, with links to their menus, click here.
PS: This week marks Rizzuto’s 15th anniversary here. Congrats!
Rizzuto’s
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There’s a special guest at this Friday’s Sunrise Rotary Club meeting.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will share her administration’s priorities, and offer updates.
The event, at Green’s Farms Church, starts at 7 a.m., with coffee, bagels and muffins. The meeting begins at 7:30, with Tooker starting around 8.
At its regular meeting on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club will have as its speaker Westport First Selectwoman Jen Tooker. She will share her administration’s priorities and provide an update on all the great things that are happening in Westport. There will be time for Q&A.
Thomas Jendrock spotted this sign, at Sherwood Island State Park:
He calls it ambiguous.
Agreed.
“The red slash is through the person and the dog,” Thomas notes.
“Does that mean people are banned (doggie’s pets), or doggies are banned (people’s pets)?” Or both?
But the red slash does not look official. Maybe someone is trying to suggest that the sign itself should be banned?
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And so it begins.
One of the first trees to turn this fall — and the subject of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — is this one on Peaceful Lane, off Whitney Street:
There are so many to choose from. But let’s go with one song, from one musical, with a Westport connection: 2003 Staples High School graduate Justin Paul’s “Dear Evan Hansen”):
(Since 2009, “06880” has been your source for hyper-local news and journalism. If you appreciate our work, please click here to support us. Thank you!)
For years, Westporters have been distressed watching Coastal Link bus riders standing on the side of the Post Road.
Employees of local businesses are there in broiling heat, freezing cold, torrential rain and driving snow.
Two new shelters should provide some protection.
Measuring 6 by 12 feet, with roof solar panels for light, electric heat and a small computer screen displaying bus arrival times, they’ve been built on Post Road West.
One is in front of Schulhof Animal Hospital. The other is across the street.
Each shelter costs $60,000. Funding is shared by the state and town (through an ARPA grant).
At the other end of town, Big Y took a big step toward its opening.
The logo is up over the supermarket, in the former Barnes & Noble building.
(Photo/Arthur Hayes)
A soft launch is set for October 24.
Meanwhile, they’re hiring in the bakery, meat, seafood, deli, produce and floral departments, along with cashiers, overnight stock clerks, and assistant management and management positions.
Sometimes the wheels of government grind exceedingly slowly.
Other times they work at warp speed.
On Sunday, a Westporter — frustrated he could not find a map of Representative Town Meeting districts on the town website — emailed RTM moderate Jeff Wieser and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.
Couldn’t it be somewhere much more visible, he wondered? Like, in the main menu on the RTM page?
Voilà!
By yesterday afternoon — the first day back at work, after Sunday and the Labor Day holiday — the link was right there, just below “Members/Contact Information.”
Speaking of government: “A Public Conversation on Marxism in CT, Trafficking in America, Rank Choice Voting, and Election Integrity” is the title of a September 18 event (7 p.m., VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.
The event is sponsored by Connecticut Centinal.
Panelists include Lt. Gen. Rod Bishop, USAF Ret., chairman of STARRS.us; Joe Oltmann, host of the Conservative Daily podcast; Connecticut State Senator Rob Sampson, and Linda Szynkowicz, founder of Fight Voter Fraud.
In-person tickets are $30 ($100 premier). Livestream tickets are $25. A percentage of the proceeds will be donated to VFW Post 399 to fund infrastructure development.
Click here for tickets, and more information. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)
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The bad news: Next Tuesday (September 10), the Starbucks near Carvel closes for a month, for renovations.
The good news: For 4 weeks, we can all drive safely on that stretch of the Post Road.
(Photo/John McKinney)
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On August 18, “Paulie” set out on his fourth “Push.”
The former flight attendant is honoring the heroes of American Flight 11, the first aircraft hijacked on September 11, 2001.
Paulie left from Boston’s Public Garden 9/11 Memorial. He’s pushing an airline beverage cart 210 miles, to the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum at New York’s Ground Zero.
This morning (Wednesday), he’ll come from Fairfield through Westport. Around noon, he’ll stop at Westport Fire Department’s Post Road East headquarters.
Keep your eye open for Paulie, as he “pushes” his way through town.
“Paulie” pushes his cart through Westport, on a previous journey.
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If you’ve never been to an Artists Collective of Westport pop-up exhibition: You’ve missed some of the most creative shows in town.
The opening receptions are especially fun.
The next one is set for Thursday, September 19 (6 to 8 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse barn).
It runs Friday and Saturday, September 20-21 (noon to 4 p.m.), with an artists’ talk on Sunday, September 22 (4 p.m.).
Exhibiting artists include Peter Mendelson, Lisa Silberman, Lois Goglia, Rosalind Shaffer, Melissa Newman, Lucienne Buckner, Erin Nazzaro, Elizabeth DeVoll, Andrew Graham, Nancy Woodward, Miggs Burroughs and Susan Lloyd.
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Sara Deren — yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club lunch speaker — has a unique job, and a moving story to tell.
She is founder and CEO of the Westport-based national non-profit, Experience Camps. They provide a free week of sleepaway camp for 1,300 children a year who are grieving the loss of a parent, sibling or caregiver.
Deren noted that the camps don’t try to “fix” the grief. Instead, they ameliorate the sense of isolation it causes, by teaching youngsters how to talk to the staff and with other youth in the same situation.
That, and the support of others, gives them the tools they need to move on with their lives in a positive way.
Sara Deren, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
Norwalk native Mike Camacho headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (September 5, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $20 music cover, $15 for veterans and students).
The drummer will be joined by pianist Ben Rice, bassist Alec Safy, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.
Nature photographer Lou Weinberg took today’s very compelling “Westport … Naturally” image. It shows a green sweat bee on Autumn Joy Sedum, at the Westport Community Gardens.
(Photo/Lou Weinberg)
Lou explains: “The green sweat bee gets its name from the fact that is attracted to the salt in human perspiration. (Don’t worry — it won’t sting unless it is really threatened; even then, its sting is mild.)
“These beautiful critters live in the soil and feed on the nectar from flowers and a sweet ‘honeydew’ created by little bugs called aphids. They store ‘pollen bread’ for themselves and their young.
“Green sweat bees add to the incredible biodiversity found in the Long Lots Preserve surrounding the Community Gardens. They are one of over 300 species of native bees found in Connecticut. Native bees are incredible pollinators, more efficient than the European honeybee.
“They have innate habits adept at pollinating hundreds of important native plants — the same plants (trees, shrubs and wildflowers) that have been planted in the Long Lots Preserve.
“As habitat loss and decreasing plant biodiversity are the primary sources of native bee population decline, it would be incredibly disappointing to destroy the Long Lots Preserve as well as the Westport Community Gardens.
“Populations of dozens of other species are being brought back by the native plantings reestablished there. When you disturb the soil, you destroy the bees.”
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And finally … in honor of our new bus shelters:
(Politics, art, business … just another day at “06880.” If you enjoy our daily Roundups — or anything else we do — please click here, to make a tax-deductible donation. Thank you!)
Our new Instagram feature will be called “Vide06880.”
Pronounced “vide-06880,” it features Dave Briggs helping local merchants, restaurants and organizations tell their stories.
Each week, the longtime Westporter (and nationally known CNN, NBC Sports, Fox News and Turner Sports broadcaster) will interview a different retail store, restaurant, home builder, fitness establishment, etc.
Dave’s very informative and entertaining Instagram reels, stories and IG Live interviews will live on our “06880” Instagram feed (“06880danwoog”), this blog (via the “Video” tab) and the app, and be posted on Dave’s feed (“DaveBriggsTV”). He’ll follow up daily with stories about that week’s feature.
This week, Dave features Romanacci — the new operator of Old Mill Grocery & Deli. Learn about their food, their vibe, and their petition to sell wine. Click below to see.
Got a suggestion for a feature? Want to learn more? Email us both: 06880blog@gmail.com and dbriggsproductions@gmail.com.
Yesterday’s “Roundup” item on Bruce Becker — president of Becker + Becker, who has reimagined the Brutalist former Armstrong Rubber/Pirelli headquarters in New Haven into the Hotel Marcel, called “the greenest hotel in America” by CNN — neglected to mention that on Friday, he was appointed by President Biden to the US Commission of Fine Arts.
That’s because we did not know, until his neighbor and friend Larry Hoy told us the news.
Since 1910, the commission has advised the federal government on matters pertaining to the arts and national symbols, and guided the architectural development of Washington.
The 7 members, all with arts expertise, serve 4-year terms.
Becker designs and builds projects with social and environmental value. His work includes conversion of the Bank of America tower in Hartford into a 285-unit LEED Platinum mixed-income community; the 500-unit, 360 State and Elm City Market in New Haven; adaptive re-use of the Wauregan Hotel in Norwich, Connecticut to create affordable housing, and redevelopment of the historic Octagon on Roosevelt Island in Manhattan into a mixed-income community.
Bruce Becker, with a “Westport Green Building Award” for “meaningfully contributing to a sustainable Westport, and furthering the town’s goal of being a net-zero community by 2050.”
Speaking of art: If you hear “student art” and think of a work hung on a refrigerator that only a mother could love — think again.
The Westport Public School’s visual arts exhibition, “Spark” opens May 25 at MoCA Westport. It runs through June 2 (closing reception 2-4 p.m.).
The very imaginative show highlights the creative spirit at work in our schools each day, from pre-K through 12th grade.
It is well worth seeing, even — perhaps especially — if you don’t have a young artist at home.
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First came Donald Trump’s “The Apprentice.”
Now there’s Gabe Sherman’s version.
The Westport native — who grew up in Westport and graduated from Middlebury College in 2001 — wrote a film with that familiar name.
“An exploration of power and ambition, set in a world of corruption and deceit,” it explores Trump’s efforts to build his real estate business in New York in the ’70s and ’80s, along with his relationship with attorney Roy Cohn.
“The Apprentice” has been chosen as one of 20 (out of 2.000) entries to premier at the Cannes Film Festival, which starts this week.
In a story about 5 things to look for at the movie mecca, the New York Times says:
If any Americans traveling abroad are counting on Cannes for 2 weeks of respite from this contentious election year, the festival has a rude reminder in the form of Ali Abbasi’s “The Apprentice.”
This political origin story of sorts stars Sebastian Stan as a young Donald J. Trump, Maria Bakalova as his first wife, Ivana, and the “Succession” star Jeremy Strong as Trump’s mentor, the fixer Roy Cohn. Could this be the only film at Cannes this year eligible for both the Palme d’Or and a clapback on Truth Social?
Gabe Sherman
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Longtime Westporter Jay Dirnberger brought Y’s Women members back to the Vietnam days yesterday.
As guest speaker, the former Army combat helicopter pilot discussed the various roles of Hueys: ferrying soldiers in and out of missions, and supplying water and ammunition to the troops already there circling over terrain with dangerously high tree canopies and mountains.
Capt. Dirnberger described the draft as a “leveler of men,” surrounding people with others they’d never otherwise know, broadening the world at a very young age.
Once strangers, they now held each other’s fates in their hands. One mistake could be deadly.
Capt. Dirnberger speaks often at high schools and colleges.
Jay Dirnberger addresses the Y’s Women.
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May is Mental Health Awareness Month.
In this week’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Department of Human Services director Elaine Daignault discuss the extensive programs available to Westporters.
As always, it’s courtesy of the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston. Click below to listen:
Jazz pianist/composer Ted Rosenthal leads this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, May 16, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. shows; dinner service at 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $20 music cover, $15 veterans and students).
Joined by trumpeter Scott Wendholt, bassist Martin Wind, drummer Tim Horner and saxophonist Greg “Jazz Rabbi” Wall, the evening will feature many Gershwin gems — plus Rosenthal’s jazz adaptations of the his symphonic works.
Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com
It’s observed every May 14, to celebrate the first public performance (in 1897) of John Philip Sousa’s stirring tune. In 1987, it became the National March of the United States.
(Be a great American — or at least a good Westporter. Please support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Just click here. We thank you!)
Today’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast is very timely.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker offers details about the downtown parking plan, including process, options and current status. Click below to listen to the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston presentation:
Her maiden name is Carusone. Her father was a Westport police officer. Her grandfather James Dorta worked for the town.
She tells “06880” that she fell on hard times. Both she and her husband are on disability. She has severe arthritis, while he has cataracts and needs surgery.
“We’re out of food and money, and have no transportation,” she says.
On Spotfund she wrote: “We have less than $100, and we’re exhausted. We have been surviving on one meal a day, making sure our dog has food and water. We’ve literally got no food in the room for ourselves.
“Applying for help takes time. We’re reaching out to churches and whatever benefits we can get. All we are trying to do is stay afloat and get into affordable senior housing ASAP, and get stable.
“We’re reaching out hoping and praying for help in this difficult situation. All donations will be used to keep us with a roof over our heads and fed, clothes washed, and non food items like toiletries. We need a vehicle obviously, but for now the basic necessities.”
A Tesla Cybertruck — first announced in 2012, introduced as a concept vehicle in 2019, scheduled for production in 2021, and finally delivered in late November 2023 with a 4-year wait list — has finally been spotted here.
Alert “06880” readers noticed one at both Classic Cars in Southport, and Old Mill Beach.
We received only one photo, however, so we’re not sure if there are two Cybertrucks in the area, or just one.
Mia and McKenzie Didio accomplished a lot at Staples High School.
The twins members of the Class of 2022 captained the basketball and lacrosse teams, and won FCIAC and state championships in soccer.
Both now play lacrosse at the University of Delaware.
And they’re poised to accomplish even more.
The Didio women will represent the Puerto Rico lacrosse team this summer, at the U20 World Games in Hong Kong.
Their maternal grandmother is Puerto Rican. Though they have not been submerged in that culture, they look forward to learning more through their participation.
They know their selection means a lot to their mother and grandmother.
“Being able to represent them in a new capacity is so exciting,” McKenzie says. “It’s something bigger than ourselves.”
Mia tore her ACL after she was selected. Her coaches asked her to take on a manager’s role. She happily agreed.
The Didios have started a GoFundMe to raise money to help fund the Puerto Rico lacrosse program. Click here to help. Click here to read more, from the University of Delaware.
Exactly 4 years ago this month, the yarn bomber first struck.
In those first desperate weeks of the pandemic, someone began draping trees with multi-colored, soothing blankets of yarn.
Compo Beach was first. Then came fire headquarters, Bedford Square, the Senior Center … all over town.
Eventually, the disease eased. Westporters went back to their “normal” lives. The yarn faded, and curled. Residents removed the “bombs,” as anonymously as they’d been placed.
But now, it seems, the yard bomber has returned.
Molly Alger sends this photo, from the Senior Center:
(Photo/Molly Alger)
It’s fresh, clean, and in the signature style of the original yarn bomber.
It looks great. And we’re happy to have the decoration — so long as it has nothing to do with COVID.
Post-Easter news: Wakeman Town Farm has 12 chicks in need of sponsors.
Sponsorship includes naming rights for 1 year, and a certificate. Funds support the sustainability center’s operations. Click here for more information.
Wakeman Farm chickens. (Photo/Lauri Weiser)
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David Hazeltine — the most recorded contemporary jazz pianist of our time (35 CDs as a leader, hundreds more as a sideman) — returns to Jazz at the Post this Thursday (April 18, shows at 7:30 and 8;45 p.m., dinner service at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $20 music cover, $15 for veterans and students).
He brings his long-time musical partner, trombonist Steve Davis.
Also in the house: bassist Boots Maleson, drummer Steve Johns and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
Today, “Westport … Naturally” takes a break from spring flowers. We turn the feature over to a snowy egret, perched delicately yet decisively at Ned Dimes Marina.
And finally … if you’re thinking of sponsoring a chick (story above), let’s goose things along:
(Ain’t nobody here at “06880” Central but us bloggers. If you enjoy our work, please support us with a tax-deductible donation. Just click here to help. Thank you!)
With more than $400 million in capital spending looming in our budget forecast, what can taxpayers expect?
Town officials say: We’re preparing.
And: We’ve been there before.
Common Ground — the Westport Library’s project to bring civility back to civic discourse — and the League of Women Voters collaborated last night on an educational forum.
Nearly 100 residents heard 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice, Finance Department director Gary Conrad and others discuss a variety of projects and timelines, and their implications for mill rates, bond ratings and more.
Acknowledging the costs associated with — among other things — a new police/fire/EMS facility, the renovation of Longshore and downtown parking lots, and a new Long Lots Elementary School, Tooker said twice that her goal is for the Westport’s mill rate to remain “stable, consistent and competitive.”
She, Conrad and a pair of independent bond advisors said that Westport’s finances have been well managed. Though debt will rise substantially through the mid-2030s, they expressed confidence that prudent, proactive planning will position the town well for the future.
To provide historical perspective, former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe and former RTM moderator Velma Heller began the event — titled “Preparing Westport for Major Capital Spending” — by citing previous large expenses.
In 1960 for example, the town purchased the failing Longshore Country Club for $1.9 million ($20 million, in today’s dollars). The decision — in the face of a 180-home residential development on the property — showed remarkable foresight, Marpe said.
(It also was done “around a dinner table” by 1st Selectman Herb Baldwin, the Board of Finance and other officials — not in open, transparent meetings — Marpe noted wryly.)
In 1959, a developer wanted to buy the failing Longshore Country Club, and built 180 homes on the land. In just 19 days, the town bought it as a municipal club.
Other major expenditures included new schools in the 1950s and ’60s, Baron’s South, and the Senior Center.
The public debt burden ballooned to $200 million. But Westport kept its AAA bond rating — and paid it off with one of the lowest mill rates in Fairfield County.
Tooker noted that in the private sector — where she worked before entering local politics — leaders are rewarded for being “ahead of the curve.” In government, she said, the key is to be neither too early or too late.
It is not an easy needle to thread. Officials constantly ask what a variety of stakeholders want, and if the town can afford it.
She described the 3 major expenses. The $90 million combined first responder facility would replace the 1980s fire headquarters and 1950s police/EMS building.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, with photos of the Saugatuck firehouse, and police headquarters.
Renovations to Longshore — an asset that attracts newcomers, and serves nearly all residents — would involve racquet sports, the pools, a new golf clubhouse and more, and cost about $40 million. It includes a private partnership with Delamar, which begins renovating the Inn at Longshore next year.
The downtown plan addresses more open space, pedestrian and vehicular safety, and flood mitigation, so that residents and visitors will be encouraged to spend more time shopping, dining and enjoying the Saugatuck River.
Other projects in the 10-year capital plan include sidewalks, bridges, culverts, and equipment like police cars, fire trucks and Public Works vehicles.
The Board of Finance is the first body to approve spending requests. The Representative Town Meeting gives the final okay.
From left: Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Finance director Gary Conrad, and bond advisors Matt Spoerndle, Mike Andreana, and assistant superintendent of schools John Bayers settle in at last night’s forum. Behind them is a list of expected major capital projects.
Scarice noted that when he arrived in the early days of the 2020 pandemic, Coleytown Middle School had recently closed due to mold. The town wanted “no more surprises” with building maintenance.
Studies showed that Long Lots was at the end of its 70-year-old life. Coleytown Elementary School is getting there, though its condition is not as dire.
Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice, with a photo of Long Lots Elementary School.
During COVID, meanwhile, Westport’s school enrollment skyrocketed. Our figures far outpaced those of neighboring suburbs, which have remained stagnant or even decreased. That impacts our schools — along with recreational facilities, emergency services and more.
Private bond counselor Mike Andreana said that many towns rely only on 5-year capital forecasts. That is “more reactive,” he said. “Thinking 10 years out is fantastic.”
The panel, with a chart showing Westport’s past and projected debt, from 2001 through 2037. (Photos/Dan Woog)
So what does it all mean for the mill rate?
That is set after looking at the town’s budget, borrowing, reserves, grand list and non-taxable revenues, Tooker said.
It is a rigorous process, done in conjunction with the Board of Finance.
And despite the capital forecast of up to $470 million — a figure, she emphasized, that is not set in stone — the 1st Selectwoman declared, “I am so bullish on our future as a community. There are so many exciting, positive changes.
“I’m not worried,” she continued. “But I take my fiscal responsibility very seriously. It is critical for the mill rate to remain stable, consistent and competitive.
“Westport,” she concluded, “is on fire.”
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In today’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker covers a topic of great interest: the recently approved town operating budget. She describes what it involves, and explains the 1.8% increase over the current fiscal year.
Click below to listen, courtesy of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston:
The Representative Town Committee Transit Committee meets next Monday (April 1, 7 p.m., Westport Library Room 216).
They’ll review, and make recommendations to the full RTM for its April 9 meeting, on a request by Public Works director Pete Ratkiewich to approve $630,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), for design and permitting of the redevelopment of Jesup Green and the Imperial Avenue parking lot.
This area of Jesup Green may be redeveloped for parking. Green space would then be added at the lower lot, closer to the Saugatuck River.
While Connecticut is not in the path of the April 8 total solar eclipse, we will experience 85% to 90% coverage.
The eclipse begins at 2:10 p.m., with peak coverage (the sun most hidden) at 3:26 p.m. The eclipse end around 4:35 PM.
The next total solar eclipse that can be seen from the contiguous United States will be August 23, 2044 (save the date!).
The Westport Public Schools have purchased solar eclipse glasses for all elementary school students and staff, including preschool.
Classroom teachers and science coaches will prepare students through age- appropriate lessons, practicing proper use of the glasses and sharing information on their morning news.
Some schools are making this a “Spirit Day,” asking youngsters to wear black to represent the moon (or yellow, for the sun). Teachers will take their students outside for a short period of time between 2:15 and 3:15, for observation.
The district asks parents to talk to their children about what to expect, and the importance of looking up at the sun only when wearing the solar eclipse glasses. Click here for more information on solar eclipse safety.
Parents who want to experience the event with their child away from school can have an excused absence for an “educational experience,” if requested in advance.
The Parks & Recreation Commission meets tomorrow (Wednesday, March 27, 7:30 p.m., Zoom). The agenda includes discussion of the Compo Beach playground renovation project.
Five days after taking part in a dramatic rescue of more than 2 dozen Saugatuck Rowing Club teenagers, the Westport Fire Department was back at Compo Beach.
This time, the event was planned: testing all hoses for leaks and pressure loss. It is a 2-day — and very important — process.
Double L Market — the Post Road spot beloved for sourcing clean, healthy food from local farms and artisans — has expanded. Double L now delivers fresh fruits and vegetables, artisanal food and gourmet products directly to Greenwich residents.
Double L was founded in 1985 by Lloyd Allen, as an outdoor farm stand. It’s now an indoor market next to Calise’s, run by Allen and his wife Gianna Bavido.
Click here for delivery options (in Westport too). The local store is open Monday through Saturday, for in-person shopping.
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For several years, Lorenza Arnal’s homemade salsas, matcha, guacamole and more — under the name of Alma’s Mexican Foods — have been one of the Westport Farmers’ Market’s most popular items.
For good reason: she was born and raised in Mexico.
One day, a WFM customer suggested she offer culinary tours there. Soon, Capitana Adventures was born.
Last year, Lorenza took her first group of foodie travelers to Mexico. Her guests were very impressed. One said that even if they had seen and done half of what was offered, she still would have been thrilled.
She is booking tours now for next fall and winter. Click here for more information. (Hat tip: Amy Ancel)
Trumpeter Michael Mossman has done it all — almost
After apprenticing as a youngster with jazz legends Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey and others, he served as music director for Blue Note Records’ Out of the Blue, while still in his 20’s. He then forged a brilliant career as a soloist, arranger, music director and educator.
There is one thing left, after Mossman’s Jazz at the Post shows this Thursday (March 28, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m. on; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $20 music cover; $15 for veterans and students).
That is: marrying Westport’s own Nancy Kail. That takes place the next night!
Joining Mossman are guitarist Bob DeVos, bassist Boots Maleson, drummer Sylvia Cuencal and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi.”
Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
If the big crowds at VersoFest aren’t your thing, consider a quieter alternative on Saturday, April 6.
Voices Café at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport presents the Deep River Ramblers. The trio “roams between” the eclectic music of Doc Watson, Nanci Griffith, Levon Helm, Muddy Waters and John Prine, using instruments like fiddle, guitar, mandolin, dobro and bass.
Tickets are $25; click here to buy, and for more information. Proceeds benefit StreetSafe Bridgeport, a street-based, non-law enforcement program focused on reducing youth violence.
Guests can bring their own beverages and snacks; coffee and sweet treats are available for purchase. Groups of four or more can reserve table space.
And finally … in 1830, the Book of Mormon was published in Palmyra, New York.
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