Tag Archives: Aiden Schachter

Roundup: Real Housewives, Greens Farms Gardeners, Free Coffee …

Posted on November 5, 2023 | 12 comments

The “Real Housewives” franchise has wandered all over, from New York to Beverly Hills, Miami to Salt Lake City (!).

Up next: “The Real Housewives of Westport”?

We’re not sure. But the other day, what appeared to be multiple cast members were filmed on Church Lane.

They prepped at Mrs. London’s Bakery, nearby.

My favorite part of the photo above: the dude in the background, who couldn’t care less as he works on his laptop.

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The Greens Farms Garden Club helps our town look prettier.

They also help people in food deserts eat nutritiously, and well.

Every summer, the “Growing For Good” initiative provides fresh organically grown herbs and vegetables to local food banks. It’s part of the club’s mission to advance horticulture skills, civic development and environmental awareness.

This year’s harvest donations weighs i at 818.5 pounds. That’s almost half a ton of good food.

Last week, the Greens Farms Garden Club earned an Award of Excellence for Civic Development, at the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut’s 94th annual awards meeting in (of course) Plantsville,

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Carrie Kuhn took this photo yesterday, at noon:

(Photo/Carrie Kuhn)

What do you see?

Or, more specifically, what don’t you see?

Traffic.

There is not one car or truck on I-95. Carrie took the shot when the Saugatuck Avenue span — and, here the Saugatuck River bridge — was closed, during the “slide” replacement project.

When was the last time you saw I-95 with no vehicles?

I know, I know:  2 weeks ago, during the first “slide” event. But still, it’s a scene worth memorializing.

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Also yesterday, shoppers from throughout the region battled the fear of “traffic-geddon” to reach Staples High School, for the Westport Young Woman’s League’s “Craft Westport” sale.

There were crafters of all kinds, plus food vendors and more. The youngest exhibitor was probably Aiden Schachter. The Staples senior — pictured below — makes and sells LED lightclouds.

“Craft Westport” continues today, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $11; seniors $10, children 12-18 $5, children under 12 are free. Click here for more details.

Aiden Schachter, at his CloudLight booth. (Photo/Susan Garment)

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Compo Beach is timeless.

But there’s always something new there, too.

Early today, there was a photo shoot on the shore.

That’s not unusual. But this morning’s subject was — well, a bit different.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

If you know the back story, click “Comments” below.

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Wheels2U — Westport’s on-demand, door-to-train shuttle service is almost free. ($2 per ride — close enough).

But on Tuesday — Election Day — the coffee is free.

The Westport Transit District and Compass Real Estate offer gratis coffee at Steam to anyone riding between 6 and 8:30 a.m.

Riders use the Wheels2U Westport app to request a pickup  between mornings, then again between 4 and 9:30 p.m. to be taken to or from the Saugatuck or Greens Farms train platform and their front door. Pickups should be requested about 20 minutes before you would normally leave to drive to the station.

Wheels2U deposits riders right next to Steam, at the Saugatuck train station. (Photo/Phil Bancroft)

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Last month, over 50 children painted 40 windows throughout town.

And the winners of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce Halloween Window Painting Contest are …

Elementary School

“Scariest Window”: Moksha & Dhruv Iyer, 5th/3rd grade, Mill Hill School (Bridgewater Chocolates window)

“Most Halloween”: Maddy and Morgan Chang, kindergarten, Kings Highway School (Westport Book Shop)

Middle School

“Scariest Window”: Penelope Whitbourne, 7th grade, Bedford Middle (Greens Farms Spirits)

“Most Creative”: (tie): Milo Milgrom, 8th grade, Bedford Middle (Winfield Deli); Manuela Roza, 7th grade, Bedford Middle (Cold Fusion)

“Most Halloween”: Ryder Elgort, 6th Grade, Weston Middle School (Cycle Dynamics).

Winners received gift certificates from Saugatuck Sweets.

Ryder Elgort, with her window decoration at Cycle Dynamics.

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The current Westport Country Playhouse Ella Fitzgerald tribute ends tonight.

But great music continues February 10.

Audra McDonald sings songs from Broadway and the Great American Songbook, in a one-night fundraiser.

The 6-time Tony, 2-time Grammy and 1-time Emmy Award winner received the National Medal of Arts from President Obama. She was also one of Time’s “100 Most Influential People.”

$2,500 tickets include a pre-show dinner and post-show meet and greet; call 203-571-1291, or email cmackay@westportplayhouse.org.

For $225 and $165 tickets, click here.

 

Audra McDonald

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Longtime Westport resident Liz Beeby died September 25, at her Fairfield home. She was 62.

Her obituary calls her “the friend who was bold, thoughtful, fearless, artistic, kind, outrageous, supportive and the coolest….It wasn’t uncommon to see her wearing minks, feather boas and glitter, belting out the lyrics to ‘Layla’ by Eric Clapton. Along with her angelic beauty, she had a sharp wit when needed.”

Liz was an accomplished artist. Her assemblage pieces appeared in Westport art shows and area auctions. “Jewelry Creations by Lucky” was her jewelry design business. She also created “Moving Memories,” which transformed still photos into special occasion videos with music and narration on a DVD.

Liz’s likeness can be seen in many award-winning photographs by Westport artist Miggs Burroughs.

A wake is set for Friday (November 10, 4 to 7 p.m., Spear Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield.)

Liz Beeby

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Of the many places in town to view fall foliage, Winslow Park is one of the best.

Patricia McMahon captured this classic scene, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature:

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And finally … to get ready for Audra McDonald’s Westport appearance (story above):

(Somewhere, there’s a place for you … to contribute to “06880.” Please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Obituaries, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Small Plane, Car Thefts …

Posted on August 26, 2023 | 6 comments

One of the highlights of my summer was a Saturday morning flight over Westport, with 17-year-old pilot Aiden Schachter.

The Staples High School rising (in more ways than one) senior has been very busy, since earning his (flying) license in June.

The other day, he took his father Seth on a tour of New York City.

This young man is clearly going places.

Aiden and Seth Schachter.

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Hard to believe, but we still have to repeat this.

An “06880” reader writes: “I have heard of 3 instances in the last day of Westporters having their cars stolen from out of their garages during the day, or while on vacation, with keys or credit cards left in the car.

“Readers should take care and lock their cars.”

Absolutely. Whether you’re parked at home or somewhere else, do not leave valuables in your car. Take your keys and/or fob with you. 

Don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Again. And again. And again.

Take it with you!

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The Artists’ Collective of Westport sponsors regular pop-up exhibits.

Each includes a variety of artists, genres and styles. Each is special.

The next one is September 7-10 (2 to 6 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse barn). An opening reception (with food, wine, conversations with artists, and Chris Coogan on piano) is September 6 (6 to 8 p.m.).

There’s an artists’ talk on September 10 (5 p.m.).

Participating artists include Ann Brecher-Bogart, Janine Brown, Randijane Davis, Susan Fehlinger, Susanne Keany, Emily Laux, Mary Jo McGonagle, Toby Michaels, Jay Petrow, Diane Pollack, Kim Porio, Mark Schiff, Kris Toohey  and Cynthia Whalen.

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Betty Dorfman died peacefully at Meadow Ridge in Redding on Tuesday. She was 101 years old.

Westporters with long memories remember her as part of the family that owned the Connecticut Yankee — a clothing store where ASF Sports is now. But there’s much more to her life.

The Brooklyn native was raised by a father who was left an invalid after World War I, and a strong mother who ensured her children the finest educational opportunities.

Betty graduated from City College of New York with a BA in business administration in 1941. She added an MS in 1945.

She married college sweetheart Arnold Dorfman in 1942. While Arnold served in the US Army during World War II, Betty taught high school. After the war they moved around for Arnold’s retail business, and began to raise daughters Merle and Wendy.

The family moved to Westport in 1955, where they opened their Connecticut Yankee store. Betty worked alongside Arnold there. So did her mother Estelle, who had then moved to Westport as well.

Betty became active in the Temple Israel Sisterhood, and served as president of the Fairfield County chapter of the National Council of Jewish Women.

After the Connecticut Yankee closed, she earned a 6th year professional diploma in education. She joined the University of Bridgeport as associate professor of secretarial studies in 1964.

Her career at UB was long and successful. Betty established and directed the nation’s first university-level word-processing major. She shared her expertise with educators, publishers, and executives from around the country.

Betty was a stickler for the English language. She insisted that all secretarial students learned traditional English grammar and punctuation, and later taught journalistic style and usage to students in the Mass Communications Department.

Upon retirement in 1985, Betty was named associate professor emeritus by the UB Board of Trustees. Arnold suffered a serious stroke the following year, and she spent the next 6 years as caregiver. He died in 1992.

During the next 2 decades Betty was an active member of Y’s Women, including co-chair of Trips and Travel for 10 years. She organized day trips and some European excursions with co-chair Dorothy Coen.

She enjoyed playing bridge and taking classes at the Senior Center. Betty also had a rewarding 10-year relationship with fellow Westporter Max Levinson. They had been couples friends for years. Max’s wife Eve had died a year after Arnold.

Betty moved to independent living at Meadow Ridge in 2012, where she remained active as chair of the Activities Committee. She moved into assisted living/memory care there in 2018.

Betty received wonderful care from Meadow Ridge and from her private part-time aide, Andrea Roudenis.

Betty is survived by daughters Merle Spiegel and Wendy Roberts; granddaughters Kate Rosewood (Rich), Jenn Roberts Ma (Roger), and Amanda Pierson (Gene), and great-grandchildren Vanessa and Fiona Rosewood, Owen Ma, and Robbie and Bennett Pierson.

Her family says, “Betty was beloved for her sharp wit, deep intellectual curiosity, kindness, fierce loyalty to friends and family, and impeccable elegance. She was a true force of nature.”

 

Betty Dorfman

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Spotted lanternflies continue to be spotted in Westport.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows this one, at Jilda Manikas’ house.

Notifications of sightings should be emailed to ReportsSLF@ct.gov. Their website for more information is https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Forestry/Forest-Protection/Spotted-Lanternfly

 

(Photo/Jilda Manikas)

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And finally … in honor of Aidan and Seth Schachter’s flight (story above):

(New York is an amazing place. But Westport has something the Big Apple doesn’t: “06880.” Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

6 Comments

Posted in Arts, Obituaries, Police

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Flying High, With Aiden Schachter

Posted on August 2, 2023 | 21 comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

He flew a plane before he drove a car.

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

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

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

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

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

He strode confidently to the small plane.

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

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

And off we flew!

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

The world looks different from that height.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aiden gave me a full tour of our town.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taking off …

… mid-flight …

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

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

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

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Roundup: Tree Board Meeting, Playhouse Tours, Earthplace Moth Ball …

Posted on July 7, 2023 | 2 comments

An SRO crowd got an up-close, personal and emotional view of Westport’s sister city relationship yesterday.

CNN anchor Alisyn Camerota moderated a discussion with 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas about their recent trip to Lyman, Ukraine.

As she’s done with world leaders and A-list celebrities, she asked incisive questions, and helped them describe the welter of emotions they felt before, during and after their journey, including the danger, war-torn conditions and dire circumstances of its people.

Tooker and Koskinas emphasized the great appreciation expressed by Lyman residents for Wstport’s support.

Audience members added their own questions too. Brian Mayer — co-founder of Ukraine Aid International — noted the many ways in which people can continue to help.

The event was sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston. (Hat tip: Dick Kalt)

Alisyn Camerota.

From left: Police Chief Foti Koskinas, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, CNN’s Alisyn Camerota. On the left is the Lyman flag; on the right, its Westport counterpart. (Photos/Ted Horowitz)

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Speaking of Lyman: All Westporters are invited to Sunday’s free party in celebration of Lyman.

The event (July 9, 1 p.m. to dusk) is at the Ukrainian-American Club on the Post Road in Southport (just past the I-95 Exit 19 northbound entrance ramp).

The event includes a giant raffle; food, beer, wine and soft drinks; music from the Mike McGovern Band; a treasure sale, Yankee auction, coffee table book pull, plant sale, “LymanADE” stand and more. Lyman Mayor Alexander Zhuravlov will speak on a big screen. Senator Richard Blumenthal will be there, in person.

To RSVP, purchase VIP tickets and for more information, click here.

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Yesterday, the Tree Board announced that today’s special meeting, to observe the condition of trees at Parker Harding Plaza, has been canceled.

Earlier this week, the Flood & Erosion Control Board canceled its Parker Harding agenda item.

Both came in the wake of 1st Selectman Jen Tooker’s announcement that for now, discussion by town boards, committees and commissions regarding the current proposal to reconfigure the downtown parking lot will be postponed.

Discussion of the Parker Harding Plaza reconfiguration plan has been postponed. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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In the midst of its $2 million, dire straits fundraising drive, the Westport Country Playhouse offers free guided tours of the historic theater.

Time slots are 10:30 a.m. to noon on Mondays and Saturdays: July 17, 22 and 24, and August 5 and 7. Click here to reserve a spot.

Tours are led by Bruce Miller. The Playhouse archivist is filled with astonishing stories and amazing facts. One example: how the Playhouse inspired the creation of “Oklahoma!” and “My Fair Lady.”

Participants will explore backstage, the green room, dressing rooms, the scene shop and wardrobe room, and see posters, photos, costumes and set models.

They’ll stand on the same stage that hosted Gene Wilder, James Earl Jones, Jane Fonda, Eartha Kitt, Paul Newman, Kelli O’Hara and Patti LuPone.

Private group tours are also available. Email Kelly Richards Mikolasy, house and events manager: krichards@westportplayhouse.org.

Westport Country Playhouse archivist Bruce Miller, with some of the 500 head shots near the dressing rooms underneath the stage.

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It’s hard to come up with a new event. It’s harder still to pick out a clever name.

Earthplace has done both.

Their “Moth Ball” is set for July 14 (8 to 11 p.m.).

The public is invited to the free event. Adults and children will gave in the picnic grove for moth-themed cocktails (“mothtails”) and mocktails, plus a costume contest.

Prizes will be awarded for Best Caterpillar, Most Realistic, Best Couple/Group,  Best Makeup, Funniest and Best Overall.

Everyone then heads to outdoor viewing areas for “lightsheeting.” Also called “mothing,” it involves setting up a light and providing a surface for moths and other flying insects to land on.

Earthplace naturalists Victor DeMasi and Lukas Kerasus will describe the moth species found at Earthplace. Click here to register, and for more information.

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The last time we checked in with Aiden Schachter, the rising Staples High School senior and wrestler had a thriving business, creating and selling LED lightclouds.

He’s always had his head in the clouds. Long before Aiden got involved in LED lights, he wanted to fly.

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

Now — after studying hard for the oral, written and check ride tests — Aiden is officially a pilot.

He got his license yesterday. The test — oral, written and in the air performing landings, takeoffs, maneuvers, emergency prep for landing at unplanned locations and more — lasted nearly 5 hours.

Congratulations, Aiden. The sky’s the limit for you!

Aiden Schachter: Westport’s newest pilot.

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On Wednesday, Westport-based Intensity Therapeutics, Inc. announced the closing of its upsized initial public offering of 3,900,000 shares of common stock. The price was $5 per share.

Intensity — headquartered on Wilton Road, across from Bartaco — is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of proprietary, novel immune-based intratumoral cancer therapies designed to kill tumors and increase immune system recognition of cancers.

In connection with the offering, its common stock began trading on Nasdaq on June 30, under the symbol “INTS.” (Hat tip: Allan Siegert)

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Lauri Weiser was disappointed to see this Compo Beach tree marred this way:

“Either I’m too sensitive, or this is shameful,” she says, describing today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

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And finally … speaking of Earthplace’s upcoming event:

(Every day, the “06880” Roundup rounds up all kinds of stuff — info you didn’t even know you needed to know. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!) 

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Posted in Downtown, Environment, Library, Local business, Local politics, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Tyre Nichols, Ruegg Grants, Michael Franti …

Posted on February 1, 2023 | 6 comments

The Tyre Nichols story is national news.

Despite Hearst Connecticut Media’s story yesterday, there is not a Westport connection.

A Connecticut Post story headlined “Advocates call for policing reforms, as Lamont questions whether Tyre Nichols incident could happen in CT” quoted Scot Esdaile, president of Connecticut’s NAACP chapter, as saying, “It’s not only happening in Memphis, we’ve seen it in New Haven, we’ve seen it in Westport, we’ve seen it in Hartford, we’ve seen it in Bridgeport.”

However, the link associated with “Westport” referred to a case from 2011 — in Westport, Massachusetts.

A statement from the Westport (Connecticut) Police Department says: “Understandably, (we) were disappointed by this article because we feel we have worked hard to build relationships and have never had any incident that resembles what we saw in Memphis.”

Hearst Media deleted the Westport link.

Esdaile apologized to Chief Foti Koskinas, the Westport Police Department and the town of Westport. He said that he meant to reference West Haven.

Esdaile added, “I have had a conversation with the chief along with Harold Bailey, the chairman of the Westport Civilian Review Panel, and we had a wonderful and energetic conversation. I apologized during the call several times, and we are looking forward to working together in the future.”

Koskinas called his conversation with Esdaile “productive, and brought about a positive resolution.”

 

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If you’re a local non-profit organization, the Westport Woman’s Club wants to give you money.

Ruegg Grants provide up to $10,000 for a 2023 project. Proposals should be “high-profile initiatives that make a meaningful difference in the Westport community.

The grants — established in 1995 by an endowment from former WWC member Lea Ruegg — go to projects that enhance social services, health, safety, the arts or education. Recent beneficiaries include the Westport Astronomical Society, Project Return, Earthplace and Wakeman Town Farm.

Click here for the grant application. The deadline is February 28.

The Westport Woman’s Club opens its doors to grant applications.

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The first big ticketed event of the Levitt Pavilion has been announced.

Michael Franti & Spearhead‘s “Big Big Love Tour” kicks off the Stars on Tour Series on Saturday, June 24 (7 p.m.). Phillip Phillips is the opening act.

Franti is a globally recognized musician, activist, hotel owner (Soulshine Bali) and award-winning filmmaker revered for his high-energy live shows, inspiring music, devotion to health and wellness, worldwide philanthropic efforts and the power of optimism.

His hits include “Sound of Sunshine,” “Say Hey (I Love You)” and “I Got You.” Spearhead’s 12th studio album, “Follow Your Heart,” debuted last June at #2, behind Harry Styles.

Levitt Pavilion members can purchase tickets now. The public ticket sale begins Friday (February 3, 10 a.m.). Click here for details.

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Here in Westport, we take garbage trucks for granted.

In Lyman, Ukraine they are game-changers.

A small part of the $252,000 donated by Westporters recently went to the purchase of 1 large and 1 small used trash trucks.

They’re vital to the reconstruction of our new sister city. When the Russians fled last fall, after 5 months of occupation and carnage, they took or destroyed all the vehicles. Refuse from the occupation — including bombed-out buildings and schools — has piled up ever since.

Katya Wauchope created this video, with footage supplied by Westport’s on-the-ground partners, Ukraine Aid International and Alex 21:

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Last August, “06880” highlighted Aiden Schachter. The rising Staples High School junior started a business — creating and selling LED light clouds — that has taken off nationally.

That’s impressive — and time-consuming. But it’s not all Aiden does. He is also a varsity wrestler.

And a pilot: He soloed on his 16th birthday. Next month, he hopes to get his full license.

Westport is justifiably proud of Aiden. Now the whole state can be.

The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) just posted a video starring Aiden. Check it out (below): The story of this athlete/cloud-making entrepreneur/pilot is truly uplifting.

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After several years, the Greens Farms train station waiting room has reopened.

That’s good news for commuters during this winter — even if they have not yet needed to take refuge from bitter cold.

It’s open from 5:30 to 10 a.m. No coffee vendor yet — but that is on the front burner.

The Greens Farms train station waiting room is open again.

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Getting into and out of the Westport Book Shop just got easier.

A handrail — often requested by patrons — was just installed on the steps to the Jesup Road used book store.

Now there’s one more reason — besides helping fund the Westport Library, and keep people with disabilities employed — to stop in and browse.

Surrounding the Westport Book Shop handrail (from left): Evan Payne, cc-manager Katherine Caro, Lia Walker, Lori Wenke. (Photo/Tom Lowrie)

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Coming up at Earthplace:

Family Campfire (February 11, 1:30 to 3 p.m.; $30 member families, $40 non-member families): Learn about animal tracks while roasting marshmallows next to a crackling fire; meet an “animal ambassador,” and participate in a guided activity. Click here to register.

February Break Camp (February 20-24, 27; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., $100/day; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., $150/day; ages 3-12): Spend winter school break outside with nature; animal encounters, and self-chosen activities. Themes change daily. Click here to register.

Maple Sugaring Magic (March 5, $20 per family; 1:30-2:30 and 3-4 p.m.): Take part in a New England tradition. Learn how to identify maple trees on a trail walk, tap a tree and collect sap, and make maple syrup at home. Finish with tasting fresh maple sap, syrups and other maple goodies around the campfire. Click here to register.

Books & Beverages (March 15, 7 to 8 p.m.; free):  Participate in a casual discussion about “A Sand Country Almanac,” with naturalist Becky Newman. BYOB and snacks. Weather permitting, it’s outside. Click here to register.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows what — even in mid-winter — is always one of our town’s most beautiful spots.

(Photo/Michelle Harmon)

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And finally … Barrett Strong, Barrett Strong, whose 1959 hit “Money (That’s What I Want),” helped launch Motown Records, and who later co-wrote “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “Ball of Confusion” and “War,” died on Sunday. He was 81. Click here for a full obituary.

(It would be tempting to follow up the item above with a crass plea for donations to “06880,” but I won’t do that. I’ll just say: Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Local business, Police, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Rob Simmelkjaer, Paul Newman, President Kennedy …

Posted on November 6, 2022 | 3 comments

On the even of today’s New York City Marathon — and a couple of weeks before Roh Simmelkjaer takes over as CEO of its organizer, New York Road Runners — the New York Times sat down for a chat with the Westport resident.

Simmelkjaer is familiar to local residents. He’s a former member of the Zoning Board of Appeals, and the Democratic Town Committee.

Persona — the interview and conversation-focused social media startup he founded — had a heavy local presence.

Simmelkjaer has also been a top manager at ESPN, an on-air Olympics personality for NBC, and — most recently — director of the Connecticut State Lottery.

He calls the Road Runners gig his “dream job.” (He comes prepared: He’s finished the New York Marathon twice.)

Click here to learn about Simmelkjaer’s plans — including a greater focus on the mental health aspect of running, and expanding the organization’s reach — in the Times’ Q-and-A. (Hat tip: John Suggs)

Rob Simmelkjaer

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Also in today’s New York Times: a review of Paul Newman’s new posthumous memoir, “The Extraordinary Life of an Ordinary Man.”

It’s by Richard Russo, who has some skin in the Westport actor’s game. Newman’s portrayal of Sully in the film adaptation of Russo’s novel changed the author’s life, opening doors to a screenwriting career.

Click here for the full Times piece.

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CraftWestport — the Young Woman’s League’s mega-pre-holiday fair — returns to the Staples High School fieldhouse today, after 2 COVID years off.

Among the 175-plus exhibitors: Aiden Schachter.

The Staples High School student is selling his LED lightclouds. That may be a first for the event — and he may be the youngest vendor ever.

The show runs until 6 p.m. today. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Aiden Schachter, and his lightcloud booth.

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As the political season heats up, so does the work of Marc Selverstone.

The 1980 Staples High School graduate — An associate professor in presidential studies at the University of Virginia, and chair of the Presidential Recordings Program at the Miller Center of Public Affairs there — is about to publish “The Kennedy Withdrawal: Camelot and the American Commitment in Vietnam.”

It’s called “a major revision of our understanding of JFK’s commitment to Vietnam, revealing that his administration’s plan to withdraw was a political device, the effect of which was to manage public opinion while preserving United States military assistance.”

Selverstone is an expert on the subject. At the Miller Center he edits the secret tapes of Presidents Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon.

Click here for more information, and to purchase.

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How do stress levels affect children’s brain development?

That’s the topic of the next Positive Directions “Lunch and Learn” series.

Frank Castorina, PD clinical supervisor, provides insights on November 16 (noon to 1:30 p.m., Westport Weston Family YMCA0.

It’s an important and timely topic. And lunch is provided! Click here to RSVP.

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Speaking of stress: Relax with some wine! (Adults, not kids …)

Westport Sunrise Rotary has just the ticket. Their “Westport Uncorked” wine tasting fundraiser is set for The Inn at Longshore (Friday, November 18. 6:30 p.m.).

Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served, along with dozens of fine wines provided by The Fine Wine Company of Westport. (All wines are available for purchase).

Every dollar raised goes directly to charities supported by Westport Sunrise Rotary. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Good times at the 2019 Uncorked wine tasting, at the Inn at Longshore.

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In advance of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers’ November 25 release of “Live at the Fillmore 1997” — their first live record in over a decade — Emmy-winning Westport animator Jeff Scher has created a great video.

Viewers will recognize plenty of local scenes, including Compo Beach, North Avenue and Cross Highway. There’s also the “Heroes Tunnel” through West Rock Ridge near Wilbur Cross Parkway Exit 59 in New Haven.

Click below to see:

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Westporters turned out in force yesterday, to help the Westport police force — and folks in need.

The Police Department and Stop & Shop sponsored their annual Thanksgiving Food Drive. All donations — 436 bags, filled to the brim — support Homes with Hope’s Food Pantry at the Gillespie Center. and Westport Human Services’ Food Pantry.

Some residents went out of their way to bring food. Others spotted the food drive, and added non-perishable items to their shopping lists.

At the end of the day, an entire (and enormous) truck was filled with much-needed goods. Thanks to all who contributed — and of course to the WPD, and Stop & Shop.

RTM member Jimmy Izzo, former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe (with his wife Mary Ellen and grandson Charlie), and Police Chief Foti Koskinas (center), with volunteers and Westport Police Department officers at the Thanksgiving food drive by Stop & Shop.

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“Script in Hand” — the Westport Country Playhouse’s very popular series of staged readings — returns November 14 (7 p.m.). The show is “Ripcord.”

Click here for details (including a plot summary) and tickets.

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If you’ve eaten at La Plage, you know there’s fine dining by the water.

If you’re a bald eagle, you agree. Seth Goltzer spotted this bird enjoying a tasty meal of squirrel at Longshore.

It’s the real world. And it fits perfectly with our “Westport … Naturally” concept.

(Photo/Seth Goltzer)

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And finally … Aaron Carter, the singer and actor (and brother of Backstreet Boys member Nick Carter) was found dead yesterday at his California home. He was 34.

(Your clock should have been set back an hour last night. And don’t forget to support “06880” either! Please click here to contribute.)

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Local business, Police, Politics, Westport Country Playhouse

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For Aiden Schachter, The Sky’s The Limit

Posted on August 9, 2022 | 5 comments

The pandemic was tough on some teenagers. Stuck at home, they stalled academically, socially and emotionally.

Others took the lockdown lemon, and made lemonade.

Or — in the case of Aiden Schachter — they made LED lightclouds. And built a thriving, national business.

In the spring of 2020 he was a Bedford Middle School 8th grader, spending more time than usual in his room.

LED light strips — the  wireless bedroom decoration that changes colors and looks cool — were hot. Aiden took a stuffed, falling-apart penguin, and created a prototype.

Today, he says, it looks like “a piece of junk: a stuffed animal in a ball.” But to his 8th grade eyes, it was impressive.

He made a few more. His aunt bought one. Aiden wondered if he could sell to non-relatives.

One of Aiden Schachter’s LED light clouds.

He thought about eBay. But Etsy — the homemade-and-craft site — seemed more appropriate.

At that point, you or I might simply have made a few LED light strips, taken quick photos, and posted them on Etsy.

But you and I are not Aiden Schachter.

The young teenager conducted market research. He watched videos. He read articles. He learned how to sell online.

His first ads were “not very descriptive,” he admits. But quickly, he discovered how to engage potential customers.

He tailored his ads to a variety of platforms: Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, Google.

Studying Etsy’s analytics to find out who was buying, he crafted different ads for different niches — “dorm room décor,” say, and “baby gifts.”

Screen shot of Aiden Schachter’s Etsy StormcloudLEDs page.

Aiden learned photographic techniques too. He’s taken 2 courses at Staples, to hone his skills.

Aiden’s mother taught him how to use spreadsheets, to pay taxes.

He was selling enough to make serious money. The 2020 holidays were a breakout period: 123 orders. With a wide price range — $60 to $180 — appealing to a wide range of customer, his product took off.

Aiden works hard. Each LED cloud light takes 20 to 40 minutes to make; each is made to  oder.

He uses recycled tin cans (sourced on the Nextdoor neighborhood app), attached with spray adhesives.

Everything except the cans comes from his Amazon business account. “I’m a big fan of 2-day shipping,” Aiden says. “And Prime Day is huge.”

The rising Staples High School junior handles every aspect of his business. After making what he calls Stormclouds, he has to package and ship them.

Aiden moved from using old Amazon boxes to ordering cardboard boxes in bulk. He invested in a label printer, which helped a lot. Now, he seals each box with custom tape, bearing his logo.

Aiden Schachter heads to the post office.

Aiden’s lessons included customer service. Etsy is a person-to-person site. “I’m a teenager. I’m always on my phone,” he notes. “I can respond instantly to everyone.”

Not that customers know they’re dealing with a high school student.

An early review said, “it looks like a teenager made this.” Aiden laughs, “Well, yeah, I’m a kid in my parents’ basement making it.”

Now though, his average rating is 4.9 stars (out of 5) — with over 100 reviews.

Other lessons came through the process of incorporating (via LegalZoom) with the state of Connecticut. His LLC is LEDCloudLight.com.

“As a 16-year-old, I struggled to learn tax and legal stuff,” he notes. (Welcome to the club.)

There’s more ahead. Aiden has just been accepted into the Westport Young Woman’s League’s indoor craft fair (November 5-6, at Staples High). That’s a big deal: It’s the longest running event of its kind in Connecticut, and extremely tough to break into.

In addition to his usual holiday sales, Aiden will make plenty of money at the fair. But he’s as philanthropic-minded as he is creative.

Last year, he donated $500 to combat climate change — a gift that was tripled by the Climate Reality Project.

He’s donated Cloudlights for charitable raffles, and is looking for more local organizations to partner with.

Aiden’s numbers are impressive. He’s sold 312 lights this year, up substantially from 219 in 2021. Orders have come from all 50 states.

He’s serious about what he does. He’s spent 6 to 7 hours a day at his business this summer. During the school year, it’s 2 to 3 hours.

Yet as impressive as this is, it’s not all that Aiden does.

He’s also a Staples High School wrestler. That’s an incredibly demanding sport, physically and mentally. 

Aiden Schachter (left) on the wrestling mat.

But there’s even more to Aiden’s story.

Long before he got involved in LED lights, he wanted to fly. Now, in addition to making Cloudlights, he’s soaring — literally — into the clouds. 

From a flight simulator in 7th grade, he’s advanced to lessons. On his 16th birthday in March, he soloed.

Aiden has flown — by himself — from Stratford’s Sikorsky Airport to Groton and Poughkeepsie. His goals are to get his full pilot’s license at 17 — and eventually, fly commercially.

Aiden Schachter, about to pilot a Cessna 172.

Back on earth, Aiden is working on Cloudlights enhancements. He’s developed lights that can be controlled by Alexa and Google Home. (They’re already controlled through an app.)

Aiden Schachter’s app to control his lights.

He’s also building up stock for the craft fair. And training for the upcoming wrestling season.

Aiden Schachter has a lot to look forward to. Thanks to him, kids and parents all over America have a lot to look up to, as well.

(For Aiden’s Etsy page, click here.) 

(To help support “06880” — and read more stories like this — please click here.)

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Posted in Arts, Local business, Sports, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Fresh Air Photo Fun

Posted on October 19, 2016 | 3 comments

Fresh Air Fund families don’t host kids for the glory. They sure don’t get paid.

The many Westport families — and others throughout the tri-state area — who welcome less-privileged boys and girls from New York City just want to share their blessings. They may also want to open their own children’s eyes to the bigger world.

Still, it doesn’t hurt to get a few kudos now and then.

The Schachter family of Westport got some the other day. They learned they’re winners of the Fresh Air Fund’s 2016 photo contest. Their shot — of their guest, 9-year-old Jonathan, baking a giant cookie with his host brother Aiden — was selected from hundreds of submissions.

Fresh Air Fund - baking cookie

It’s more proof — if any is needed — that hosting a youngster for a week can definitely be a “sweet” experience.

(Interested in hosting a Fresh Air child next summer? Click here, or call Nicole Johnston: 212-897-8953.)

Click here for “06880+”: The easy way to publicize upcoming events, sell items, find or advertise your service, ask questions, etc. It’s the “06880” community bulletin board!

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Posted in Children, Organizations

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