Tag Archives: A Better Chance of Westport

Roundup: Hamlet Meeting, E-bike Safety, Free Saplings …

Posted on April 22, 2025 | 9 comments

After the recent Zoom-bombing of the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting — an attack that included pornography, Nazi symbols and the video of a beheading — the next meeting will be in person.

It should draw a large crowd.

The P&Z agenda for next Monday (April 28, 6 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) is about the proposed Hamlet at Saugatuck retail/residential/hotel/marina development.

The public hearing includes input from residents.

A 65-day extension has been granted for this phase of the regulatory process. The final date for a decision is now June 18.

Aerial rendering of the Hamlet at Saugatuck proposal.

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

Another meeting discusses another long-debated project: the new Long Lots Elementary School.

The Building Committee meets tonight (6 p.m., Town Hall Room 201/201A) for a project update. There will be time for public comment.

Three views of a possible new Long Lots Elementary School.

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

E-bikes are e-verywhere.

To raise awareness about safety, the Westport Police Department is sponsoring a community forum.

The May 13 event (6:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) will cover rules and regulations (for riders and motorists), street awareness, and tips and resources for all ages. A Q-and-A session will follow.

The evening will feature law enforcement officials and safety director Charles Foster of SCBC Safe Rides.

Class 3 e-bike.

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

Speaking of transportation: The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) Transit Committee and Westport Transit District meet jointly tonight (Tuesday, 7 p.m., Westport Library Room 210).

The agenda includes:

A recommendation to the RTM on the 2025-26 budget request for railroad parking, including a discussion of railroad parking permit revenues.

A recommendation to the RTM on the 2025-26 Transit District budget.

A recommendation to the RTM on a supplemental appropriation of $55,000 for transportation services for the elderly, and people with disabilities.

A discussion on expanding Wheels2U service to the Senior Center, Farmers’ Market, and Jesup Green/Westport Library, beginning next month.

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

Yesterday’s Roundup gave an incorrect location for the memorial to Max Harper.

It’s at the western end of South Beach, near the trees and benches across from Ned Dimes Marina.

It’s a beautiful spot, for a loving tribute.

The Max Harper memorial stone, on Compo’s South Beach. (Photo/Pam Docters)

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

There may be no such thing as a free lunch.

But there are free tree saplings.

the Westport Tree Board will give them away this Friday (April 25, 3 to 5 p.m., Town Hall back parking lot).

The gifts are in honor of Arbor Day. There’s one per family — choose from Virginia pine, river birch, red cedar or lilac.

Tree Board sapling giveaway, in 2022.

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

A reminder: One of the most inspiring — and fun — galas of the year is this Saturday.

The A Better Chance of Westport Dream Event raises funds for the non-profit that creates educational opportunities, and changes lives, for exceptional young men from less advantaged communities.

As always, the highlight will be speeches from the graduating seniors, and an ABC alum. This year’s returning grad is Yoel Hooper-Antunez. Click here to read his amazing back story.

The Dream Event also includes excellent food and drinks, a silent auction, and a chance to hang with some of the most accomplished young people in town. Click here for tickets, and more information.

The current A Better Chance of Westport scholars.

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

Also at the Library: the return of Andrew Wilk’s Medical Series.

The topic for 2025 is oncology. Longtime local internist Dr. Robert Altbaum moderates each of the 4 sessions, and introduces experts.

Tonight (Tuesday, 7 p.m.), Dr. Richard Frank, chief for clinical and translational cancer research at Nuvance Health, describes recent advances in cancer, including chemotherapy, targeted DNA treatment and immunotherapy, and explores the diagnostic, therapeutic and psychological challenges of treating advanced cancer

Dr. Robert Altbaum

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

Dylan Robbin knows hoops.

Last week, the Staples High School freshman was featured on the House of Highlights YouTube channel.

The 90-minute segment included a debate between 10 Gen Z sports podcasters and Jermaine Womack, who runs the popular YouTube channel Chill Town Hoops.

At 14, Dylan was the youngest participant by at least a decade.

A clip of his conversation with Womack about whether Steph Curry is the best point guard of all time went viral on Instagram.

Click below to see the full debate. You can follow Dylan on Instagram and TikTok: @drsportstakes.

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

Frank Rosen is probably the 50th reader to send a photo of the bald eagle that perches regally on the communications tower at the Westport police station.

But he’s the first to realize — without me telling him — that the bird is a wooden fake.

(Photo/Dylan Rosen)

“We killed about 30 minutes in the beautiful sunshine, taking in it’s majestic beauty,” Frank says.

“I waited so long for it to fly away — only to realize it’s not real.”

No one else who sent similar images to “06880” over the past month realized — until I told them — that the reason the eagle stood so still for their photo is because it never moves.

Reactions range from laughter to anger. Most common, though, is embarrassment.

To whoever placed America’s national bird atop the tower: well played.

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

A new guest has been added to CT Against Gun Violence’s annual spring benefit “Be the Hope” luncheon (May 15, 11:30 a.m., The Inn at Longshore).

The headline speaker is Rob Wilcox, former deputy director of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention.

He’ll join Sandy Hook youth activist Matthew Holden, who will discuss his work. Click here for tickets.

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

Tulips bloom around the Minute Man, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

Up next for our town symbol: The 248th anniversary of the Battle of Compo Hill.

This is not some random monument. Our Minute Man commemorates the Battle of Compo Hill — fought 248 years ago, this week.

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

And finally … in honor of the wooden eagle behind the police station, which does not fly anywhere:

(If you click here to support “06880,” your hyper-local blog, our heart will soar like a — dove. Thank you!)

9 Comments

Posted in Environment, Politics, Saugatuck, Transportation

Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

“06880” Podcast: Eric Freeman

Posted on April 21, 2025 | 2 comments

Eric Freeman is a partner in a real estate investment firm. He and his wife are raising young sons. A former viola player, he sits on the board of the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra.

But his most important role may be as president of the board of A Better Chance of Westport.

That’s the organization that, for over 20 years, has provided educational opportunities — and much more — to young men of color, from communities less advantaged than Westport. It’s one of our town’s crown (and underpublicized) jewels.

A few days before ABC’s big fundraiser, the Dream Event — it’s Saturday, April 26 — Eric and I chatted for the “06880” podcast. Click below to learn more.

2 Comments

Posted in Library, Media, Staples HS, Teenagers

Tagged , ,

Roundup: Hamlet Update, VersoFest Finale, A Better Chance Honor …

Posted on April 7, 2025 | 17 comments

Representative Town Meeting member Matthew Mandell offers this update on the Hamlet at Saugatuck project:

Tonight (Monday, April 7, 6 p.m., Zoom), the third agenda item will be a discussion of the proposal.

April 28 is the date for public comment only, in person at Town Hall.

The Flood & Erosion Control Board met last week, and continued their Hamlet hearing to May 7. That may disrupt the Conservation Commission schedule, which is currently set for April 23 and 30.

The Architectural Review Board meets on April 10. They have not yet completed their review of the project.

Mandell says: “P&Z will go deep into May at this point” in its Hamlet discussion. “June is looking more and more a reality.”

The RTM member adds: “There are still other pieces – an 8-24 for use of town property will also need to be filed with P&Z, and that could slow up the timeline.

“The Historic District Commission will have to weigh in as well, as every building involved is under their jurisdiction, not just the historic ones on Railroad Place. The Board of Selectwomen acting as the Traffic Authority will also need to render decision on traffic and parking issues.

“A group of citizens, concerned with the impacts of the project, and calling itself the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck has formed and has become active.” Click here for their website.

Click here, then scroll down for all pending applications and recent approvals related to the Hamlet at Saugatuck.

The 21 Charles Street office building would be renovated, in the Hamlet’s plans. This view looks north on Charles Street. Franklin Street would become two-way — but only between Charles Street and Railroad Place (right side of rendering).

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

Four great days of the 4th annual VersoFest ended yesterday.

Paul Shaffer — legendary “Saturday Night Live” performer, and musical director for both David Letterman and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — entertained a capacity Westport Library crowd.

He chatted with fellow “SNL” alum (and iconic Beehive Queen) Christine Ohlman. (He brought jingle bells too, in homage to Darlene Love’s famous
“Baby Please Come Home” Letterman appearances at Christmas.)

Paul Shaffer and Christine Ohlman. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

VersoFest is a huge undertaking. Congratulations to all who helped bring Patti Smith, the Wallflowers, 5iveFingaz, Bruce Springsteen’s people, and so much more to the “loudest library on earth.”

Speaking of which: The website I Love Libraries just gave it a shoutout.

The story — “The Hippest Damn Library in the Country” includes that exact quote from Talking Heads’ Chris Frantz.

It adds Doors drummer John Densmore’s description: “The coolest damn library, ever.”

Click here for the full story. (Hat tip: Dennis Jackson)

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

At the risk of sounding self-promotional — but with the goal of promoting one of my favorite organizations in Westport — I pass along the news that A Better Chance of Westport is honoring me with their first-ever “Community Ally Award.”

It will be presented at the annual Dream Event gala (April 26, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

It’s a huge honor, for sure, and one that could be given to countless men and women who have helped the non-profit thrive over more than 2 decades, as it has provided educational and life benefits to dozens of young men of color from less-advantaged communities.

I will be thinking of all of them at the fundraiser. And I’ll be honored to honor the scholars themselves.

The highlight — as always — will be the speeches by the graduating seniors, and a returning alum (this year, Yoel Hooper-Antunez).

Click here for tickets, and more information. I hope to see you there!

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

The gateways to Westport just got a nice more welcoming.

This past weekend, 6 Rotary Club signs were updated. They include the new Rotary International logo, and include a 4-sided inspirational message.

It is a wish for peace to prevail in our homes, schools, communities, and on earth.

Westport’s 2 Rotary Clubs worked together on the project, with global peace builders Rick Benson and Dennis Wong.

The signs are at I-95 Exit 17 (on the northbound island); the Sherwood Island Connector across from the transfer station; Post Road East, at the Southport line; Post Road West, in front of Whole Foods; Merritt Parkway Exit 41, across from the former Red Barn restaurant, and on Route 136 near Norwalk.

The sign by Merritt Parkway Exit 42 disappeared a few years ago.

Rotary sign near Merritt Parkway Exit 41.

In addition, a peace pole was installed at Compo Beach. It’s part of the renovation of the playground — a major project of the Westport Rotary Club, in honor of its 100th anniversary.

Compo Beach playground peace pole. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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

The new documentary short adaptation of “America’s Lost Band” — the story about The Remains, the legendary-but-never-quite-made-it band with Westporters Barry Tashian and Bill Briggs, who opened for the Beatles on their final US tour — is drawing plenty of attention.

Feature stories in the Boston Globe, Deadline Hollywood and Hartford Courant have praised the film, and shined a new light on the rock group.

Rock at Night called it a “priceless documentary.” It’s produced by longtime Remains fan — and 1971 Staples High School graduate — Fred Cantor.

Interested? Tonight (Monday, 9:30 p.m.) “America’s Lost Band” has its television premiere on CPTV.

Tomorrow (Tuesday), it begins streaming on PBS platforms, and YouTube.

Click here for more details, and streaming links.

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

Speaking of music: On Friday, high school jazz ensembles from around Connecticut — and as far away as Montreal — performed in the Essentially Ellington Competition & Festival at Greenwich High School.

Of course, Staples was there.

And of course, conductor Kevin Mazzarella’s musicians sounded superb.

Bands performed from 8 a.m. through 7 p.m. Two hours were set aside for instrumental master classes, and a performance by the faculty ensemble.

Staples Jazz Ensemble, with conductor Kevin Mazzarella (far left). (Hat tip and photo/Michael Mossman)

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

Just added to the Levitt Pavilion calendar: The Disco Biscuits’ 30th anniversary tour (June 28, 7 p.m.).

The Philadelphia group pioneered “Trance-Fusion” — bridging the gap between electronic dance music and jam rock.

Members pre-sale tickets are available today (Monday), at 10 a.m. Tickets for the general public begin Friday (April 11, 10 a.m.). Click here to order.

The Disco Biscuts

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

Among the upcoming events sponsored by Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport (which, if you think of it, encompasses just about everyone in town):

Spring coffee (April 11, 10 a.m., Mrs. London’s Bakery). Email membership@neighborsandnewcomersofwestport.com for more information.

Book group (April 24): “Olga Dies Dreaming,” by Xochitl Gonzalez). Email pohal@aol.com for details.

Cooking group (April 23): Alice in Wonderland High Tea: Themed dishes like
“Eat Me” cookies, tea sandwiches, scones and imaginative pastries; appropriate dress optional. Email mia.goldman@yahoo.com for details.

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

Is there any bird more interesting-looking than a barred owl?

We’ve highlighted a few before in our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

But we’re always up for another good shot of this unique species.

Cathy Malkin spotted this guy on Oakview Circle:

(Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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

And finally … in honor of the Staples Jazz Ensemble’s appearance at the Essentially Ellington event (story above):

(Welcome to another week — and another week of “06880” Roundups. As always, we’ll bring you tons of information, and news you can use. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

17 Comments

Posted in Library, Local politics, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

ABC + 5: Yoel Hooper Delivers His Dream Speech

Posted on March 28, 2025 | 3 comments

It takes a leap of faith — and courage many 14-year-olds lack — to join A Better Chance.

The local chapter of a national program brings 8 boys of color from underserved schools around the country, to Glendarcy House in Westport.

They live together, attend Staples, and enjoy many opportunities the town and school offer.

But it’s not easy. They leave their families. They’re thrust into a new environment, in an unfamiliar suburb where most people do not look like them. They face inordinate, constant pressure and challenges.

Yoel Hooper-Antunez was one of several dozen young men who, over the past two-plus decades, took that brave step.

He left Santa Ana, California. He adapted to his new community. He had a successful 4 years, playing music and taking part in other Staples activities.

Five years ago, Yoel was ready for his reward: graduation, and a chance to speak at the Dream Event, A Better Chance of Westport’s annual fundraising gala. Like so many before him, he would address a room full of adults, very successful in their professional and personal lives, about his journey over the past 4 years.

Those heartfelt, honest, painful, powerful and ultimately uplifting stories are always the highlight of the Dream Event.

Yoel Hooper-Antunez (front row, 2nd from right), with fellow A Better Chance scholars, and returning alumni, at a Dream Event when he was at Staples.

Just 3 months before graduation, COVID struck. The 6 underclass scholars were sent home. Yoel and the one other senior in Glendarcy House remained, with the resident directors.

The Dream Event was canceled. Yoel never gave his speech.

Five years later, he’ll get his chance.

Yoel — now a Grinnell College graduate, and finishing his first year at his first job — is the featured speaker at this year’s Dream Event (April 28, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

He’s coming from his home in Las Vegas for the event. That says a lot about the kind of man Yoel is. And about what ABC means to its scholars.

Yoel Hooper-Antunez as a Staples freshman …

Yoel’s introduction to the program came from a guest speaker in 7th grade. He spent the next 2 years getting his grades up, and preparating for tests and interviews.

On a visit to Westport he toured Glendarcy House; met the scholars, volunteers and then-president Eric Seidman, and spent a day at Staples.

He had been unsure about moving all across the country. But seeing the Westport program in action sealed the deal. When he was accepted, he quickly said yes.

Yoel thought he would be known only as “that ABC kid.” To his surprise, many students did not know about the program.

“It was somethng so big in my life. But it didn’t mean anything to other people. It was nice to be able to just be part of the crowd,” he says.

Yet Yoel stood out in other ways. He played in the jazz band (and got a saxophone he still plays every day). He joined the yearbook, wrestled, and studied film.

“The person I entered as is not the person I left,” Yoel says.

… and senior.

“That’s true for a lot of 14- to 18-year-olds,” he notes. “But I had so many resources at my disposal.

“I had a great roommate. Great tutors. A great school. Experiences I never would have had otherwise.”

ABC scholars spend weekends with host families. He was embraced by his, and traveled with them to Belize. On another trip, to Cuba, he met some of his relatives.

Being an ABC scholar is not easy. “There are a lot of expectations,” Yoel explains. “You’re an ambassador for the program, at all times. If you mess up, it reflects on the program.”

Scholars cannot drive. There are strict rules about parties and social events.

Yoel rose to the challenges. Between his academics, and navigating living 3,000 miles from home, he felt well prepared for college.

As he got ready for Grinnell — a school he heard about through volunteer college counselor Kim Freudingman — the pandemic hit. He finished his classes online, went on walks and rode his bike.

He had begun writing his speech for the Dream Event. But like so much else in town, it was canceled. He never got to descibe his 4-year metamorphosis.

His first year of college was also fully remote. But once Yoel got to the Iowa campus, he immersed himself in political science, statistics and music.

Yoel Hooper-Antunez, at Grinnell College. (Photo/Isabel Torrence for The Scarlet & Black)

He’s now a financial analyst with a gaming company. He plans to earn a CFA or CPA degree. He’s enjoying Las Vegas, and is saving money to buy a house.

And now, Yoel is planning that Dream Event speech he never gave 5 years ago.

“I want to give back to the program that gave so much to me,” he says.

“I got a scholarship to college. I have a good job. Everything I do every day, I trace back to moving to Westport when I was 14 years old.

“The experiences in Westport and Grinnell — I never would have had them without the program. It was transformative. I hope I can come back every year.”

That first trip comes soon. When Yoel Hooper-Antunez speaks next month, it will be — for a couple of hundred attendees, and especially for him — truly a “dream” event.

The A Better Chance Dream Event is April 26 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library). Click here for tickets, and more information.

Yoel Hooper-Antunez, today.

3 Comments

Posted in Categories, Education, Staples HS

Tagged ,

Roundup: Susie’s House, A Better Chance, Playground Volunteers …

Posted on March 15, 2025 | 2 comments

After months of renovations, Susie’s House reopens April 1.

The 124 Compo Road North residence is run by Homes with Hope. Named for former director Susie Basler, it provides stable, affordable living for 6 young women ages 18 to 26 who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness.

At Susie’s House they’ll get back on their feet through education and employment, eventually moving on to independent living. Each woman will have a mentor, community support and case management.

Community members are invited to a pre-opening tour next Saturday (March 22, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.). To RSVP, email events@hwhct.org.

Susie’s House

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

For nearly 25 years, A Better Chance of Westport has provided education, a home, mentors, and opportunities for a powerful future to smart, self-motivated, creative and very cool young men of color, from around the country.

It’s one of our town’s best non-profits. Hundreds of Westporters have volunteered, in a variety of important roles. And they’ve gotten as much from the ABC scholars as they’ve given.

The “Dream Event” is A Better Chance’s annual fundraising gala. Along with the food, drinks and auction items, there’s something more: inspiring speeches, from the current scholars, and those who have graduated and gone on to great success.

This year’s event is April 26 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library). Click here for tickets, and more information.

Then-current and past A Better Chance scholars, at a previous Dream Event.

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

The renovation of the Compo Beach playground is just a few weeks away.

Just like during its construction in 1989, and first renovation in 2006, it’s a community project.

Whether you’re a parent whose kids use it, or used to when they were younger — or even if you have no kids’ connection to this great Westport attraction — organizers are looking for volunteers to help.

Professional builders, skilled volunteers, unskilled hands — all are welcome to sign up for slots.

All volunteers will receive a playground t-shirt! Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be served by community vendors.

There’s a “KidZone” on site for children (potty-trained, please!). 12- and 13-year- olds can help out there.

14-17-year-olds are welcome on the build site. They cannot handle tools, but there are many other ways to help.

Click here to snag a spot, and to learn more.

In 1989, scores of volunteers helped build the playground.

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

Yesterday’s Roundup gave a shout-out to Thursday’s Westport Book Shop gala.

Since 2021, the Jesup Green store has provided jobs, training, and a great place in the community to people with disabilities.

One highlight of the Westport Library event was a short video. The stars are employees themselves.

They describe the confidence and joy they get out of serving customers, learning new skills, and earning a paycheck.

As the video notes, Westport Book Shop is a place where “people’s stories shine” — in countless ways.

Click below (or click here), to enjoy this powerful video, produced by Westport’s own The Visual Brand:

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

I would not have thought there’s a lot of litter in the neighborhood around Greens Farms Road, Maple Avenue South and Clapboard Hill Road.

Then again, I don’t live there.

Dan and Nicole Donovan do.

Every few months, they take a walk with a garbage bag.

A large one.

Yesterday, their 1-mile walk yielded 10 pounds of trash.

Ten pounds!

Dan Donovan, with his Greens Farms neighborhood trash.

The most common item by far, Dan says, was alcohol bottles, with the little nips.

Thanks, Dan and Nicole, for picking up after so many inconsiderate folks.

It’s a good thing you don’t live near Compo Beach!

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

Earthplace’s 4th annual Beer Garden (April 26, 4 p.m.) has something for everyone — of all ages.

Adults enjoy a self-guided trail walk with craft beer tastings, while kids sample sparkling drinks, and participate in arts and crafts.

The beer garden includes food trucks, s’mores, lawn games, and a selection of full-size beers available for separate purchase. Click here for tickets, and more information.

S’mores at the Beer Garden.

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

Weston Field Club has reopened.

The private club closed in November, after “financial irregularities” caused what the board president called an “existential crisis.”

With a new general manager, there’s an open house today (Saturday, 1 to 3 p.m., 38 Ladder Hill Road South, Weston). They’ll show off their facilities, and describe their programs like aquatics, racquet sports, trap shooting and camps.

Weston Field Club is also offering summer trial memberships, for $3,000 and $5,000. Click here for the website. Click here for more details, from Weston Today.

(Photo courtesy of Weston Today)

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

Compo Beach is once again getting ready for prime time.

Crews are  redistributing and smoothing sand, in preparation for the can’t-come-soon-enough great weather.

This was the scene a couple of days ago, at South Beach:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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

The Aspetuck Land Trust is ready for an active spring, both live and online.

Lunch & Learn: “Assisted Plant Migration Helps to Expand Our Native Plant Palette for Climate Change” (March 28, 12 noon, Zoom webinar). How can we help plant species move north as temperatures rise? Explore the role humans play in helping move plants, as well as helping animals move more freely to aid in seed dispersal.

Plant Sale (Opens for Members April 4). ALT’s spring and fall native plant sales feature hard-to-find native plants, trees, shrubs and perennials. Plants are ordered online, and picked on weekends at the Caryl & Edna Haskins Preserve. Click here to join or renew membership.

Vernal Pool Walk with Edward Pawlak (April 12, 10 a.m., Trout Brook Valley Jump Hill Preserve; click here to register).

Earth Day Weekend Ephemeral Wildflower Walk with Vernal Pool Expert Anthony Zemba (April 19, 10 a.m., Trout Brook Valley Jump Hill Preserve; click here to register).

Anthony Zemba leads a wildflower walk.

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

It may be a (sub)urban legend, but I’ve heard that Violet Lane is named not for the flower, but for someone whose last name was Violet.

On the other hand, today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows that there indeed are violets on the small road off Myrtle Avenue.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

Which raises these important questions: Is there myrtle on Myrtle Avenue? And was it named for the plant, or a woman called Myrtle?

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

And finally … in honor of Westport’s violets (story above):

(There’s a mystery about Violet Lane. But there’s none regarding “06880.” We’re your hyper-local blog, here for you 24/7/365 — and we rely on you for support. Please click here to help. Thanks!)

2 Comments

Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Weston, Westport life

Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Roundup: YMCA’s Bedford Fund $$, Veterans’ Wreaths, South Korea’s “Feliz Navidad” …

Posted on December 15, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: YMCA’s Bedford Fund $$, Veterans’ Wreaths, South Korea’s “Feliz Navidad” …

When Ruth Bedford died in 2014, at 99, the last surviving grandchild of Westport Weston Family YMCA founder Edward T. Bedford left the organization a giant — and unexpected — $40 million bequest.

Part of the money funded the new Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund. Grants go to groups in Fairfield County that support a wide range of educational programs that empower children and young adults.

On Monday, the Y honored 33 non-profits, with checks totaling $315,000.

Recipients include:

  • A Better Chance of Westport 
  • Achievement First Bridgeport 
  • Adam J Lewis Academy 
  • Bridgeport Youth Caribe 
  • Cardinal Shehan Center 
  • Carver Foundation 
  • CCC YMCA – Bridgeport 
  • Covenant School of Bridgeport 
  • CT Institute for Refugees and Immigrants 
  • Family & Children’s Agency 
  • Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras
  • Hall Neighborhood House 
  • Homes with Hope 
  • Horizons at Sacred Heart/Notre Dame 
  • Horizons Greens Farms Academy 
  • Housatonic Community College Foundation 
  • Kids Empowered By Your Support 
  • Klein Memorial 
  • Lifebridge Community Services 
  • McGivney Community Center 
  • Mercy Learning Center 
  • Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County 
  • New Beginnings 
  • Norwalk Community College 
  • Norwalk Housing Foundation 
  • Project Morry 
  • Shepard’s Mentors 
  • Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities 
  • Staples Tuition Grants 
  • Under One Roof 
  • Urban Impact of Black Rock 
  • Wakeman Boys and Girls Club 

The scholars of A Better Chance of Westport are among the recipients of this year’s Westport Y Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund.

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

100 volunteers — members of VFW Post 399, American Legion Post 63 and their Auxiliaries; Sons of American Legion, Scouts from Troops 39 and 139, and Westporters who just wanted to help — gathered yesterday at Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road.

As part of the national Wreaths Across America program, they laid wreaths on the graves of dozens of servicemembers. Each time, they thanked that veteran for their service.

More wreaths will be placed at veterans’ graves, at other cemeteries in town.

Volunteers, at yesterday’s Wreaths Across America event.

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

In America this holiday season, “Feliz Navidad” is everywhere. We’ve loved the jangly, catchy song by our Weston neighbor for over 50 years.

Now it’s all over South Korea now too.

In rallies calling for President Yoon Suk Yeol’s removal, protesters have danced to a song with its melody. Like “Feliz,” the verse is repeated often: “Impeachment is the answer.”

The New York Times says: “Mr. Feliciano did not comment directly on the latest adaptation. Susan Feliciano, his wife, said in a statement that the lyrics have been repurposed often and that it was gratifying to see the melody endure.” (Hat tip: Amy Katz)

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

The Westport Library’s 3 new art exhibits are on display, from now through February 4.

The Sheffer Gallery brings the idea of transcendence to life with Claudia Mengel’s “Alchemy of Light,”paintings inspired by the mysticism at the heart of alchemy’s expression in the Middle Ages.

An opening reception celebrates Mengel’s work on December 18 (6 p.m.).  A conversation between Mengel and Artists Collective of Westport co-founder Miggs Burroughs follows at 7.

In the South Gallery, Jason Pritchard’s “Westport Skies” is a love letter to his New England home. Paintings like “Compo Beach” and “Riverside Park” invite viewers to connect to their own experiences.

Pritchard will showcase his exhibit, along with fellow artist Christine Timmons, at their shared reception (January 9, 6 p.m.), followed by an artist conversation with Pritchard, Timmons and Burroughs at 7.

Timmons’ “Journeys in Collage“, in the Jesup Gallery, offers mixed media collage composed of papers, vintage buttons, dead leaves, wire, and ticket stubs on wood panels.

Claudia Mengel, with “Alchemy of Light.”

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

“06880” often reports on Y’s Men’s speakers.

But the 400+-person organization has plenty of other activites.

Willie Salmond reports on his regulat tennis game. Three members of the foursome are 99, 91 and 89 years old. Willie is the baby, at 79.

“Arguing about the score, line calls, etc.. plus coffee and banter after the games  keeps us going!” he says.

Roger Federer: You’ve got something to look forward to!

378 years young. From left: Willie Salmond (79 years old), Keith Brooks (99), Neil Coleman (89), Peter Kolbrenner (91). 

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

Okay, it’s not exactly growing in the wilds of Westport.

But the poinsettias at this weekend’s Candlelight Concert were gorgeous.

And they were “natural” at some point, hopefully in a local greenhouse.

That’s good enough to qualify for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Enjoy!

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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

And finally …Antonín Dvořák’s “Symphony No. 9” premiered in a public afternoon rehearsal at Carnegie Hall. Neil Armstrong took a recording along during the first moon landing, in 1969.

(From Westport to South Korea, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please click here to support our globe-spanning work. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Roundup: YMCA’s Bedford Fund $$, Veterans’ Wreaths, South Korea’s “Feliz Navidad” …

Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Library, Politics, Sports, YMCA

Tagged , , , , ,

A Better Chance: Offering Life (And Life-Changing) Experiences

Posted on October 1, 2024 | 1 comment

For over 20 years, A Better Chance of Westport has provided academically gifted and highly motivated young men of color the opportunity for an education at Staples High School.

Several dozen teenagers have seized that chance. They’ve taken full advantage of the school’s many academic, arts, athletic and other offerings.

They’ve also taken part in enrichment activities throughout town, and nearby. Westport has opened its arms to the ABC scholars, who come from New York City and New Jersey. They’ve rewarded us with their hard work, inspiring personalities, and post-college successes.

This year, those scholars have an even better chance of achieving their dreams.

Thanks to a generous grant from the Westport Young Woman’s League — and the creativity and passion of executive directors of student life Daniele Dickerson and Dale Mauldin — there is a renewed focus on the 7 teenagers’ intellectual, artistic and cultural exposure and enrichment.

Through visits to museums, restaurants and Wakeman Town Farm, plus experiences like kayaking, in Westport, New York and beyond, the husband-and-wife directors hope to fill the scholars’ lives with the kinds of experiences many Westport youths take for granted.

ABC has always had a budget for outings and events. But, Dickerson says, the WYWL grant “completely changed the scope of our activities. Using the muscle of trying new things can be life-changing. We’re super grateful.”

Kayaking on the Saugatuck River was one of the first activities this year. Most of the scholars had never done anything like that. The Sea Kayak Connecticut guides were “knowledgeable and great,” Dickerson says. “The kids had so much fun — and learned a lot.”

Everyone onto the water! 

Hungry Pot — the Korean BBQ restaurant — welcomed the scholars recently. In addition to a tasty meal, they learned about culture.

A discussion about K-pop music elicited many different perspectives. “It was really interesting,” Dickerson says. “They were so smart and insightful.”

The directors plan to introduce the scholars to many more cuisines and cultures, via food.

“Restaurants are the gateway to being global citizens,” Dickerson says. “It’s such a joy to see these young people try something for the first time. They picked out different meats, sides and sauces, and did the grilling.”

Similarly, Wakeman Town Farm offered a “farm to table” cooking class.

The scholars toured the farm, learned how the food they would eat is grown, met the animals, had fun — and were introduced to “a life skill,” Dickerson says.

“Farm to Table” day at Wakeman Town Farm.

A trip to the HBCU Classic — the Howard University vs. Morehouse College football game at MetLife Stadium, complete with a battle of the bands — mesmerized the young men.

The HBCU Classic, at MetLife Stadium. 

The scholars prepared for the new school year with a book club. During the summer they read “Ready Player One,” a science fiction novel involving technology, simulation and gaming.

Over dinner, the teens discussed it with ABC board members.

There will be more book club meetings ahead.

Clean plates and open minds, at the Glendarcy House Book Club meeting.

As the weather cools, the excursions will move indoors. Trips to New York museums, art classes and other experiences are planned for the fall and winter.

“So many people are scared of what they don’t know, or of meeting different people,” Dickerson says.

“We want to expose the scholars to as many experiences and people as we can.”

The Westport Young Woman’s League grant is helping them do that. So are Dickerson and Mauldin’s creativity at finding those experiences and people, and connecting the scholars with them.

It’s all part of the many important life experiences 7 great young men are enjoying, through A Better Chance of Westport.

And through the generosity, and genuine interest, of many others in town too.

(To learn more about A Better Chance of Westport — including how to volunteer and donate — click here.)

1 Comment

Posted in Education, Local business, Staples HS, Teenagers

Tagged , , , , ,

ABC Host Parent Says: Take The Leap To Help!

Posted on May 6, 2024 | 1 comment

A Better Chance of Westport’s recent Dream Event was — as always — an inspiring evening.

Current and former scholars, family members, friends, and dozens of volunteers gathered to salute (and raise funds for) the program. ABC brings highly motivated, very smart and talented young men of color to Westport, to live together and attend Staples High School.

Among the Dream Event highlights: speeches by 2 sets of host parents. They’re the families that provide a “home away from home” for the scholars, on weekends during the school year.

It’s one of the often unheralded, sometimes overlooked, but crucial elements of ABC’s success. And the rewards for host families are as great for the host families, as for the scholars.

Today, a host parent describes her experience:

As a Westport mom, I know that being a parent involves lots of sacrifices.

Being the parent of a scholar in the A Better Chance program entails one of the biggest sacrifices I can imagine: sending your child away to  a new school, to live in a house with unfamiliar peers, supervised by adults who aren’t relatives, while your child spends weekends with other (at first unfamiliar) families.

Even more challenging during the already demanding high school years, ABC parents courageously send their children to schools where they will be a minority. They entrust the enforcement of their child’s rules, boundaries and structure to the ABC resident directors, while giving up the daily routine of sharing meals, celebrating birthdays and Mother’s Day, even back seat banter with their child and their friends.

It has to be an excruciatingly hard decision.

ABC scholars also make tremendous sacrifices. They leave the comfort of their home, parents, friends and community.

ABC scholars are high achievers. They distinguished themselves at the top of their middle school classes, as students who would thrive in a rigorous high school. Through tests, interviews and a competitive selection process, they proved they could excel in the intense setting of Staples High School.

They made the difficult choice to pursue an opportunity here, leaving their homes to reside at Glendarcy House, and become part of our community.

A Better Chance scholars, at last weekend’s Dream Event. 

While I can try to put myself in the ABC parents’ shoes, I imagine that a significant aspect of their decision is rooted in hope. They hope that the ABC community will embrace, protect and love their child.

It is a leap of faith. My family and I chose to ease the landing for these scholars and their parents, by being part of the ABC community.

For the past 4 years I have served as a host mom.

It is not as daunting as it sounds. It entails opening my home to a scholar for one weekend a month — about eight or nine weekends for the 2024-2025 school year — and inviting them to be part of our family.

Hanging with a host family …

The ABC scholars do not demand high-flying, extravagant experiences. They do not expect Broadway shows or front-row tickets to sporting events.

They’re often happy to just be in your home.  What they truly appreciate is a welcoming space to unwind, share a meal with a family, and simply have some down time to recharge after their demanding week.

What the commitment offers host families is a truly enriching experience. It is a chance to learn about another teenager’s life, to experience Westport from the prospective of someone who is part resident, part newcomer.

Most importantly, it is an opportunity to open your home, and your heart, to a teenager looking for connection and understanding.

My children have fully embraced the host family experience. They include our scholar in their plans with friends, attend sports events together, discuss local issues, and trade perspectives on everything from March Madness to racism in high schools.

… and apple-picking …

This relationship has grown and developed over the years we’ve spent together. I know my kids will carry it with them in the future. They have benefited from knowing our scholar, who expanded their worldview, and offered them insight into the life of a peer with a different background — yet shared — experiences.

While being a host family may seem daunting, I assure you: Taking the leap of opening your home, heart and family to an ABC scholar is truly rewarding. I encourage my fellow Westport parents to consider being an ABC host family.

It is an enriching journey that offers an opportunity to learn and grow alongside a motivated, brave and fascinating teenager.

(Interested in learning about hosting a scholar for one weekend a month? Email abcwestporthost@gmail.com.)

(“06880” is proud to post stories like this one — and proud that Westport supports this hyper-local blog too. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!) 

… and sharing a meal.

1 Comment

Posted in Education, Westport life

Tagged

SLOBs Help Make Westport Beautiful

Posted on April 29, 2024 | 3 comments

If you drove around Westport last weekend, you may have noticed an unusual number of high school boys weeding, planting, mulching, painting, cleaning and picking up garbage.

What a bunch of SLOBs.

That’s the great acronym for Staples’ Service League Of Boys. One of the most popular clubs at the high school, it’s a way for boys — and their parents — to join together in community service.

From Friday to Sunday — during the group’s annual Service Weekend — SLOBs and their parents contributed hundreds of hours of work to our town, at 20 different venues and events.

Service Weekend began Friday afternoon. Members packed supplies to donate to the Wilbur Cross School.

It also marked the beginning of SLOBs’ relationship with the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston, and Jim Marpe’s philanthropy team.

SLOBs and Y’s men, working together.

The weekend tended Sunday evening, with a clean-up of the town’s soccer fields.

Other highlights included:

  • Spring maintenance at Wakeman Town Farm
  • Clean-Up Westport, with Andrew Colabella and the Westport Police union
  • Trout Unlimited
  • Blau Gardens clean-up
  • Quest for Peace
  • Person to Person
  • Compo Beach clean-up
  • Westport baseball fields and tennis courts
  • Community Fun Day at Saugatuck Elementary School
  • Minute Man 5K
  • Westport Downtown Association’s spring cleaning
  • Spring cleaning and mulching at A Better Chance of Westport’s Glendarcy House (thanks to a generous donation from Gault Energy)

SLOBs, at ABC’s Glendarcy House.

Staples students have busy schedules. They play sports and music; they’re in Players and clubs. They have tons of homework. Advanced Placement tests are looming. Fortnite beckons.

But there they were this past weekend: proudly wearing their SLOBs shirts, hard at work, making our town look better and contributing to our sense of community.

(You can follow Staples’ Service League of Boys’ Instagram: @shsslobs.)

Saugatuck Elementary School Fun Day.

Athletic fields cleanup.

Minute Man 5K.

With the Westport Downtown Association.

(“06880” appreciates all that our teenagers do for Westport. We also appreciate all the readers who support this hyper-local blog. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

3 Comments

Posted in Staples HS, Teenagers

Tagged , ,

Roundup: ABC Dream Event, DOT Work, Men’s Mental Health …

Posted on April 29, 2024 | 3 comments

This is non-profit gala season.

Nearly every night, local organizations host fundraisers. There’s catered food and auctions. Special guests offer inspiring speeches.

All are worthwhile. The amount of good works, and the number of generous Westporters, is impressive.

Even so, A Better Chance of Westport‘s Dream Event stands out.

The 22-year-old program — which brings academically gifted and highly motivated young men of color to Westport, where they live together and attend Staples High School — is one of our town’s shining jewels.

The 2023-24 ABC scholars.

The Dream Event is a chance not only to raise much-needed funds, but to celebrate ABC’s scholars, their families, and the community volunteers who make the program run, as host parents, drivers, tutors and more.

As always, Saturday’s event at the Westport Library was a powerful demonstration of the impact A Better Chance has on these wonderfully dynamic, creative and brilliant young men.

It is an equally powerful demonstration of what Westport gains from them.

The speeches by president Eric Freeman, encee Jay Norris, host parents and others were ringing endorsements of ABC.

A Better Chance of Westport president Eric Freeman introduces emcee Jay Norris (photo on the large screen).

But the words from the scholars themselves were especially noteworthy.

2016 Staples alum Christopher Morales described his path in the world since graduating from Cornell University.

Christopher Morales

Staples senior Nile Jean spoke with insight, warmth and humor about his journey from an ambivalent 9th grader to a soon-t0-be-graduate, who made the rocky adjustment, then thrived, in a very different town and school.

Nile Jean

Nile’s mother’s Nedra Stewart’s loving, passionate words brought the crowd to tears. From an early age, she wanted the program for her son (“I stalked ABC,” she said). Her pride in him was evident.

Nile Jean’s mother, Nedra Stewart. (All photos/Jerri Graham Photography)

And the large crowd was proud that she had entrusted her son to ABC, and to our community.

We will watch him soar, as so many other ABC alumni have done. We are a better community for having them in our midst.

(To learn more about A Better Chance of Westport — including how to volunteer and offer support — click here.)

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

The other day, “06880” noted the pavement-grading activity to the right of the northbound entrance at I-95 Exit 18.

The property near the Sherwood Island Connector is a “reuse stockpile area.” It is a hub for storing dirt and gravel salvaged from the Norwalk WALK railroad bridge site, allowing the contractor to minimize waste and disposal.

Alert and environmentally conscious reader Scott Smith adds: “It’s amazing that the town can spend 10 years or more debating new parking downtown or elsewhere, but the state can throw down a couple of acres of asphalt just like that.”

He is also amazed by “how much land in Westport is heavily used by the state Department of Transptoration and Metro-North, from the takeover of the commuter parking lot further down the Connector to all the action at exit 17.

“It looks like we’ll be a construction zone for years more.”

“Reuse stockpile area” at I-95 Exit 18 northbound. (Photo/Scott Smith)

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

Westport’s newest outdoor sculpture will be dedicated May 4 (4 p.m.).

The public is invited to Pasacreta Park (opposite Saugatuck Elementary School) for a ceremony honoring artist Niki Ketchman, and “Passage.”

The work by the longtime Westport resident is a joint initiative with the Westport Arts Advisory Committee, Parks & Recreation Department and Commission, Department of Public Works and the Westport Permanent Art Collections.

“Passage” is on loan for 5 years.

Artist Niki Ketchman (umbrella) supervises the installation of “Passage.”

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

May is Mental Health Month.

TAP Strength invites men — and the people who love them — to a holistic discussion of treatment options.

“Let’s Talk About Men’s Mental Health” (May 15, 6 to 7 p.m., 180 Post Road East) features Jennifer Boyd PA and TAP Strength owner Dr. EJ Zebro.

A $25 donation to benefit the National Alliance on Mental Health is suggested.

To RSVP, email info@tapstrength.com.

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

The Staples Jazz Ensemble headlines “A Night of Jazz.” The May 13 (7 p.m., Westport Library) event features music by Benny Carter, Frank Foster, Dizy Gillespie, Rick Hirsch and Thad Jones — with a world premiere by Dr. Kyle Saulnier.

The free event is part of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston’s monthly jazz series.

Dizzy Gillespie comes to the Westport Library May 13. Well, the Staples High School Jazz Ensemble will play his music, anyway.

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

Sorelle Gallery’s new floral exhibition is “Awakening.” The opening reception is May 11 (3 to 5 p.m.).

Attendees can explore floral artwork by Kay Flierl, Christine Averill-Green, Linda Bigness, Juniper Briggs, Kelly Rossetti and others; watch a frosting piping demo, and taste cake samples by Harborview Cakes; see a bouquet-building demo and shop flower arrangements by New Petal Flower Market, and enjoy light refreshments (including a specialty floral cocktail).

A percentage of proceeds from partnering organizations and artwork sales will be donated to Earthplace. Click here for more details on the exhibition.

“Awakening,” at Sorelle Gallery.

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

Carl Addison Swanson’s latest “Husk McCormick” series novel — “Sex Trafficking” — is now available on Kindle.

Longtime Westporter and Staples High School graduate Swanson is the best-selling author of 58 novels.

This one focuses on a modern horror: young women who are kidnapped and placed in “modern slavery” for prostitution and other acts.

Swanson’s protagonist Hush McCormick rushes to rescue a Marine buddy’s daughter, who falls victim to a cartel.

Click here to order. Click here for Carl Addison Swanson’s website.

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

Speaking of books: The next Westport Book Shop’s Short Story Book Club meeting is May 23 (6 to 7:30 p.m.).

Attendees will discuss 2 selections from Tim O’Brien’s 1990 “The Things They Carried,” his part fiction, part memoir collection of stories about the Vietnam War.

The selections are “On The Rainy River” and “Speaking of Courage.”

Registration is required, by phone (203-349-5141) or email (bookshop@westportbooksaleventures.org.)

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

What could be more natural than a full moon?

Lauren Rothstein captured this once-a-month shot for “Westport … Naturally” a few days ago, at Saugatuck Shores’ Covlee Beach. (Hat tip: Patti Brill)

(Photo/Lauren Rothstein)

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

And finally … the upcoming Staples Jazz Ensemble’s concert (story above) brings to mind the great Dizzy Gillespie:

(“06880” kicks off another week of Roundups — and much more. If you enjoy our work, please support us with a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)

3 Comments

Posted in Arts, Library, Local business, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , , , , ,