Tag Archives: American oystercatcher

Roundup: Sunrise Service, Beach Art, Climate Hope …

Posted on April 20, 2025 | 17 comments

Over 100 people celebrated Easter this morning, with a traditional sunrise service at Compo Beach.

Here’s to a wonderful day, to all who celebrate.

(Photo/Rick Benson)

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Meanwhile, nearby, Banksy — or someone like him — has come to Westport.

An intriguing bit of street art — more aptly, “boardwalk art” — appeared recently, at the Compo Beach lifeguard shack.

Print at the lifeguard shack. (Hat tip and photo/Andrew Colabella)

No one seems to know who is behind the print. But it sure adds color and interest, a few weeks before the guards arrive.

Meanwhile, a few yards away, a number of fence pickets — relics of the previous playground renovation — remain. They’ve been offered to families and organizations who bought them, to help fund the 2009 rebuild.

The 2025 re-do begins tomorrow. New pickets are part of the project. They may be available to donors in the 2040s.

(Photo/John McCarthy)

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Yesterday’s protest was not as large as the one 2 weekends ago.

But — on the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington and Concord — over 100 people gathered at the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge. As with the earlier demonstration, they held signs decrying a number of actions by the Trump administration.

Once again, many — but not all — drivers honked in support.

Another protest is planned next Saturday.

(Photos/Adam Stolpen)

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David Pogue left Westport last year, for Bedford, New York.

But he’s back (almost) for the 4th annual Norwalk Earth Day Festival.

The “CBS Sunday Morning”/PBS “Nova”/New York Times tech writer (and much more) returns on April 26 (11 a.m., Mill Hill Historic Park), for a talk on “Climate Hope.”

Organizers promise “10 surprising reasons for hope,” and 10 impactful actions anyone can take to help protect our planet. Click here for tickets.

The event, on the Norwalk Green, also includes vendors, healing arts, kids’ activities, a labyrinth, picnic grove, tree planting, “trashion” show and beer garden. Click here for more information.

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Speaking of the environment: Weston’s EcoFest is set for May 4 (11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Lachat Town Farm).

The day of environmental service, celebration and education includes community members, local businesses and organizations, showcasing sustainable products and initiatives.

There’s live music by high school bands; food trucks and vendors; family-friendly games and activities; mini-speaking series on topics like pollinator planting, eco-gardening, electrified lawn care and recycling, plus a live animal presentation.

There’s also a bottle and can drive,with raffle (marking Weston’s collection of its millionth bottle and can). Every 25 redeemable containers offers a chance to win $250.

Click here for all EcoFest details.

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Speaking (still) of the environment: Westport’s Shellfish Commission takes care of the land, as well as the water.

The other day, members Jamie Walsh and Jesse Harte, plus former Conservation Department director Alicia Mozian and interested Westporter Heather Walklet collected 5 large bags of trash — plus assorted large sections of styrofoam — at Longshore’s Hendricks Point.

Jamie Walsh, Alicia Mozian and Heather Walklet, picking up our trash.

It’s an annual clean-up for them.

And an annual reminder to Westporters: Pick up your own trash, please! That’s not the Shellfish Commission’s job!

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And speaking of environmental cleanups: Sustainable Westport invites volunteers to help along the Longshore waterfront and surrounding areas next Saturday (April 26, 2 to 4 p.m.; meet at the pavilion).

It’s part of the town-wide Earth Day clean-up, organized by the Parks & Recreation Department. Click here to volunteer.

Last year’s Longshore coastal cleanup. (Photo/Brandon Malin)

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Camp season is creeping — okay, zooming — up on parents.

Some kids love sports. Others are passionate about arts.

For STEM-minded boys and girls in grades 1-8, there’s a week-long Daley Genius STEM Camp (June 25 to July 2, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Content Studio, 20 Saugatuck Avenue, next to the Goddard School).

Click here for more information.

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There are several “free libraries” around town: small structures (and one “bookcycle”) that offer books to anyone who wants them. (Or, of course, wants to donate volumes to them.)

Most patrons are people walking or biking by.

There is one at the corner of Hillandale Road and Morningside Drive South. Neighbor Bob Weingarten sees plenty of pedestrians look at the kiosk. However, he says, until the other day he had never seen someone stop their car, and browse.

He was so intrigued, he took this photo:

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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The concert by pianists Dr. Liang-Fang Chang and Dr. Uriel Tsachor at Saugatuck Congregational Church — postponed earlier this month — has been rescheduled for April 27 (4 p.m.).

The Y’s Men of Westport & Weston co-sponsor the free event, on the church’s Steinway grand piano.

Dr. Liang-Fang Chang and Dr. Uriel Tsachor

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Longtime Westport resident Jeanne Nylen died April 15. She had suffered a stroke 2 weeks earlier.

The Fairfield native and Wheaton College graduate married Samuel Nylen in 1962. They moved here 2 years later.

Jeanne served as a Girl Scout leader, Nature Center docent, teacher’s assistant, and head of the Hillspoint Elementary School PTA.

Later, she pursued her passion for exploring by becoming a travel agent with Westport Travel, and visiting Hong Kong, Morocco, the Arctic Circle, and much of Europe.

After Sam died in 1999, Jeanne opened her home to visiting Chinese teachers. She hosted 8, through a Staples High School program.

In retirement Jeanne cared for her grandchildren, and enjoyed the theater, symphony and opera, her book group, and tennis. She was also a decades-long member of the Green’s Farms Congregational Church.

Jeanne is survived by her daughter Wendy (James Hopkins) of Bridgeport; step-grandson Samuel Hopkins (Krissy) and 2 great-grandchildren of South Glastonbury, and son Toby (Gail) of Sutton, Massachusetts, and grandchildren Dallas, Victoria and Sam Nylen.

A memorial service will be held later.

Jeanne Nylen

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It’s that time of year: American oystercatchers have returned to the eastern end of Compo’s South Beach, to nest.

Once again, that area has been roped off, to provide the shorebirds the space and quiet they need to breed.

Matt Murray spotted these important signs, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … well, you knew this was coming, right?

(Happy Easter, to all who celebrate! And whether you do or not, feel free to click here, to fill our basket with a joy. And also a contribution to “06880.” Thank you all!)

17 Comments

Posted in Arts, Beach, Children, Education, Environment, Longshore, Obituaries, Politics, Weston

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Roundup: Oystercatchers, Lanternflies, ADUs …

Posted on July 4, 2024 | 4 comments

Several “06880” readers want to know: How did the American oystercatchers — whose nests are protected on Compo’s South Beach — fare during the fireworks?

Jess Esposito-Halka — coastal water bird technician with Audubon Connecticut — reports: “Overall, the event went well. Everyone we chatted with was happy to know we were there to monitor the birds, and most were respectful of keeping their distance from the fence line.

“A couple of drone issues were resolved as the evening went on. No birds were injured.

“The actual display was quite traumatic for the chick, who was left alone while the parents fled the area. But all was okay after the display’s finale, and the parents returned.

“I went back yesterday morning to check in. The parents and chick were resting along the lower fence line, likely exhausted from the late night.

“Six fish crows were causing some disturbance due to some trash inside the fenced area, I removed it this morning before I left.”

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Speaking of the environment: Nikola Freeman writes with a message about a very common invasive plant — the tree of heaven — and the very invasive spotted lanternflies that feed on it.

In his yard, and throughout his neighborhood, Nikola saw them everywhere.

“Now is a great time to take action,” Nikola says. “The flies are still small and grouped together.

“Spray the flies with vinegar to kill them off, and cut down as many of these weeds as possible whenever you see them. This helps take their food source away.”

Spotted lanternflies on tree of heaven, at Winslow Park last year. (Photo/Michael Mossman)

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Accessory dwelling units are now legal.

What to know more about these detached structures, which open Westport’s housing stock to residents looking to downsize, those who cannot afford to rent larger homes, and those who want to move into a smaller place on their own property, while renting out their larger home? (They’re also great for au pairs and nannies.)

A Westport Library program (July 10, 7 p.m.) features Sheri Koones in conversation with Danielle Dobin, former Planning & Zoning Commission chair.

Koones’ book, “ADUs: The Perfect Housing Solution,” profiles 25 attractive, well-designed and energy efficient ADUs across North America.

Click here for more information.

Accessory dwelling unit, on Greens Farms Road.

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Sunday morning will be a quiet time at Compo Beach — especially compared to Tuesday’s fireworks, and today’s (dependent on the weather) holiday crowd.

But it’s the perfect spot for the summer 8:30 a.m. community worship service. This week’s host is the United Methodist church of Westport and Weston, led by Rev. Heather Sinclair.

Pivot Ministries — a faith-based residential treatment program in Bridgeport and Norwalk — will provide inspiring music and testimonies.  An offering will be collected to support their ministry.

Services run every Sunday through August 18, each week hosted by one of four churches: Green’s Farms Congregational, Norfield Congregational, Saugatuck Congregational Church and UMC.

A beach pass is not needed; tell the gate attendant  you are there for worship.  Bring a beach chair. Dress is casual. All are welcome.

Rev. Heather Sinclair leads a Sunday beach service last year.

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Speaking of Compo Beach: By yesterday morning — just hours after the last blast — Parks & Recreation crews had cleaned every pizza box, flip-flop, tent and table left behind.

It’s a remarkable transformation. And it meant that couples like this one could go back to enjoying the sun and sand, without sharing their space with 10,000 other people.

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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Google says there are 42,998 Subway locations worldwide.

It would have been just 1 shy of 43,000, but the Westport location closed a couple of years ago. (It’s now Savvy Smoker. Go figure.)

But there’s one fewer Subway on that list. The Southport location, a few yards over the border — where Westport teenagers and others craving a turkey, tuna or other have had to go — closed Monday.

The nearest one now is on Route 1 in Norwalk, near Marshalls, Truly Greek and the Staples office supply store.

Southport Subway. (Hat tip and photo/Seth Schachter)

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Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — celebrates today. Looking red, white and cute!

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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Photographer Julie O’Connor is the Westport Book Shop exhibitor for July. A reception is set for July 17 (6 to 7:30 p.m.).

Julie O’Connor

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Ruth Hartmann Kaufman — a longtime Westport resident, and former Staples High School teacher — died last month. She was 93.

The Passau, Germany native arrived with her family in June 1938 through Ellis Island. She lived in Troy and Albany, New York from 1938 until 1948, when she received a scholarship to Cornell University.

After graduating she married Arthur Kaufman. They were together for 77 years ,and married for 72.

Ruth earned a master’s degree from New York University in 1970. That year she began teaching new and somewhat controversial courses at Staples High School: Values Clarification, Family Relations, and Human Sexuality.

She continued teaching for more than 2 decades at Staples with her mentor and friend, Robert Selverstone.

Her family calls Ruth “a good teacher,  listener and friend to hundreds of young students as they flourished in their lives, relationships, ambitions and personal development.”

After teaching at Staples she became a travel agent. She explored the world with her husband, visiting cities, forests and countries on every continent.

She enjoyed tennis, rollerblading, skiing, hiking and baking desserts. Ruth and Arthur moved to Seattle in 2000, joining their daughter and grandchildren for another 25 years of hiking in the Pacific Northwest.

Ruth was grateful for the beauty of Westport all her life and spoke warmly of her many friends, the town’s beautiful beaches, and her family’s homes on West Ambler Road, High Point Road, and Covlee Drive.

Ruth is survived by her husband; their children Kenneth, Ronald, Douglas, Theodore and Catherine, and 18 grandchildren. Ruth’s family can be reached by email: Ron@RonKaufman.com.

Ruth Kaufman

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It’s Fresh Market osprey time again at “Westport … Naturally.”

Nearly every photo we’ve run has shown a color close-up of the magnificent raptors.

This one is different.

But still majestic.

(Photo/William Weiss)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming forum on accessory dwelling units (story above):

Bonus local connection: The animation above was created by Westport’s own Jeff Scher.

(Our blog is a very, very, very fine blog. To help keep it going, please donate by clicking here. Thank you!)

4 Comments

Posted in Arts, Beach, Environment, Library, Local business, Obituaries, Real estate, religion, Restaurants

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Roundup: Longshore Cleanup, American Oystercatchers, Port-a-potties …

Posted on July 1, 2024 | 7 comments

Yesterday, “06880” offered tips on keeping pets safe and calm during tomorrow’s fireworks.

But what about American oystercatchers, the bird species whose nesting area is roped off and protected just west of the Compo Beach cannons? What happens when hundreds of people descend on the area for the pyrotechnics — which then go BOOM! for a solid half hour?

Jess Esposito Halka posted this yesterday, on Facebook’s “Westport Front Porch” page:

Please try to keep at least a 25-foot buffer along the fenced nesting area, so that staff are able to move freely around the fenced area to monitor the birds before and during the event.

Nothing should hang, hover or lean against or over the fencing. If something accidentally blows into the area and you need to retrieve it, please locate an Audubon staff member to retrieve the item.

“The area behind the nesting area (closer to the sidewalk) is still a safe place to set up. But please keep space between your belongings and the fence for staff and other attendees to walk by along the outside of the fence.

“Please avoid walk through the water below the fence.

“Thank you all so much for your extra efforts this season. It has made a significant difference.

This nesting pair of American oystercatchers are the only successful mainland breeders in the entire state this season, with 1 healthy 3-week-old chick!” (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

Protect our American oystercatchers! (Photo/Jess Esposito Halka)

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Speaking of the environment: Longshore Sailing School cares about the water — and the coast.

On Saturday, they sponsored a coastal cleanup.

Kayaks were free — so long as kayakers removed garbage and debris from the shoreline and Saugatuck River.

Nearly 4 dozen concerned cleaner-uppers found dozens of golf balls — presumably from the nearby driving range at Hendrick’s Point.

Two folks found industrial construction material. They won t-shirts, for the largest trash pickup of the day.

From golf balls to building materials: Thank you, all who helped.

And thanks to  Longshore Sailing School too!

PS: Don’t worry. They’ve sponsored these events before. There will be more to come.

And more trash, unfortunately, to haul out.

Kayak cleanup (Hat tip and photo/Brandon Malin)

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We’re just a day away from the fireworks.

This morning, one of the most important parts of the preparation began:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Thirteen years ago, People Magazine covered the marriage of actress Eva Amurri and Kyle Martino, the 1999 Staples High School graduate/former US men’s national team player.

The couple moved to Westport and had 3 children, but divorced 5 years ago.

Now People has covered her second marriage. This weekend, Amurri — the daughter of Susan Sarandon, who is also a lifestyle blogger and still lives here — married chef Ian Hock, in the Hudson Valley.

Click here for the full story.

Eva Amurri and Ian Hock (Photo/Taralynn Lawson for People magazine)

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Hey! Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows the side that’s supposed to be recycled. Not the one you’re using!

(Photo/Robert Mitchell)

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And finally … Kinky Friedman — the singer/humorist/quasi-politician best known for his band, the provocatively named Texas Jewboys — died Thursday near Austin. He was 79, and suffered from Parkinson’s disease.

Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on support from readers like you. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

7 Comments

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

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Save Our Oystercatcher Chicks!

Posted on June 13, 2024 | 5 comments

Jess Esposito-Halka is a Westport resident, and coastal waterbird technician with Audubon Connecticut, monitoring protected beach-nesting and island-nesting birds across Western Connecticut in a collaborative effort with the Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds. Jess writes:

Compo Beach is the westernmost mainland nesting site for American oystercatchers (a species of conservation concern in Connecticut), and a nesting site for the state and federally and state threatened species, the piping plover.

These species and their nests are protected under federal, state and local laws.

What’s special about Compo Beach is that is serves as a mainland nesting site for American Oystercatchers; 75% of Connecticut’s American Oystercatcher population breeds on offshore islands.

The roughly 25 pairs that nest on mainland beaches across our state are often much less successful, due to predator pressure and human disturbance.

Since 2015, one pair of American oystercatchers have nested at South Beach, near the cannons and jetty.

An American oystercatcher territorial display: defending a 3-egg nest at Compo Beach. All photos were taken with a zoom lens, to avoid disturbing the birds.

The birds return to Connecticut in April. Audubon Alliance staff fence off the area to protect nests and reduce human disturbance.

Entry into the fenced nesting area is prohibited for the bird’s protection, and yours. The accidental crushing of a nest or chick in any marked nesting areas is a direct violation of federal law.

The Compo oystercatcher pair has successfully hatched their nests only 3 times between 2015 – 2023.

In 2020, when beach access was restricted due to COVID, a pair successfully fledged 2 chicks for the first time and only time, emphasizing the importance of reducing human-related disturbance near sensitive beach-nesting species.

The pair recently hatched 2 eggs out of their first 3-egg nest attempt of the season, and are currently brooding 2 young chicks.

Westport Park & Recreation Department superintendent Mike West and maintenance division foreman Drew Grega have coordinated with me since the piping plovers and American oystercatchers returned to Compo Beach in April.

Mike and his team, including the wonderful Compo Beach staff, have been instrumental in our efforts to protect the nesting birds. Raking on South Beach has been halted to reduce disturbance and harm to the chicks, but will resume in a couple weeks.

Parks & Rec will continue to coordinate with us to protect the nesting pair and their chicks during the upcoming fireworks display

An American Oystercatcher, inside the Compo Beach fenced nesting area.

How can residents and beach visitors help?

Please respect nesting areas. Stay out of and at least 25 et away from the fence, to reduce disturbance and unintentional harm.

The fencing cannot be expanded below the mean high tide line because the tide can wash the fence posts away. But the area below the marked fencing (along water) at Compo is also extremely important to the birds’ overall nesting success, and should also be avoided as if physically fenced.

The chicks are quite smaller than the adults, and of similar color to the rocks below their nesting area by the water, which is where they hang out for most of the day because they blend in better with their environment.

At this life stage they hunker down when their parents alert them to threats. This is helpful when avian predators fly by, but not advantageous when a human walks through the rocks not noticing them underneath their feet.

An American oystercatcher carries mussel meat to feed her 2 recently hatched chicks at Compo Beach. (Photos/Jess Esposito-Halka)

Other disturbances include drones and kite flying near the nesting area. This causes harm to the oystercatchers, as they perceive them as avian predators. They defend their nest and chicks, and get tangled or injured in response.

In 2021 a drone near the nesting area resulted in a leg injury to an adult American oystercatchers, which led to the loss of their 2 young chicks.

To help reduce real predator attraction to the area, please dispose of all food waste and scrapes in nearby trash receptacles.

Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Wildlife Division provides this advice to protect nesting shorebirds:

  • Walk close to the water on the lower beach, so birds can rest and nest on the upper beach. Signs usually alert you to these areas. Follow all other guidance on signs, and respect all areas fenced or posted for protection of wildlife.
  • Keep your distance while photographing or birdwatching, so the birds feel safe to attend to their eggs and chicks.
  • Do not feed animals or wildlife on or near the beach.
  • Do not attempt to “rescue” young birds that appear to be lost or too young. They should not be removed from the beach to be cared for at home. In most cases, when immature birds are found alone the adults have been frightened away but remain nearby, and will return to their young once the intruder leaves.

(From downtown to the beach, on land and water, “06880” is your source for all you need to know about Westport. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment

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Oystercatcher Alert: Save Our Beach Birds!

Posted on May 27, 2023 | 11 comments

“06880” readers know Carolyn Doan for her gorgeous photos of the Fresh Market ospreys. For years she has documented their arrival, their food-gathering forays, the births of their chicks, and their time here.

Today she turns her attention to another beautiful bird. Carolyn writes:

For the past 2 years the American oystercatchers and piping plovers have lost their nests at Compo Beach. This is despite the area being roped off for protection.

Predation has been the main culprit in losing nests and chicks. Fish crows, gulls and canines are all serious threats. Human activity and trash left on the beach attracts predators, drawing them to the protected area on the beach.

An American oystercatcher and chick at Compo Beach, in 2021. Sadly, the young bird did not survive. 

After losing another nest earlier this season, the oystercatcher pair is back. Last night, they were incubating at least one egg.

The Audubon Alliance for Coastal Shorebirds has made every effort to protect these endangered birds. These include marked areas of the beach, large signs and metal cage-like structures placed over nests to assure that eggs are protected. Westport Parks & Recreation Department has been a huge help too.

This weekend and afterward, the American oystercatchers need our help. Please keep dogs off the beach. Canine footprints found in the area could be the result of foxes or coyotes, but of course there should be no dogs on the beach this time of year any way.

Female oystercatcher incubating at Compo.

Also, please stay away from the protected area near the cannons. The most sensitive area is closest to the shoreline where the birds are incubating, so please don’t walk that stretch of beach near the water. This flushes the birds off the nest, and makes it vulnerable to predators.

Please pick up trash and throw it away. Better yet, bring it with you.

On Friday night there was a lot of food and trash left at the beach. Fish hawks and gulls flocked to the area.

Compo Beach trash, last night. (Photos/Carolyn Doan)

And please: no drones. The birds chase them, and risk being injured.

This is their second attempt this season. Let’s help them out!

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Drones, Sludge: An Environmental Report

Posted on June 10, 2021 | 4 comments

A pair of environmentally conscious readers have asked “06880” to convey some important messages. I’m happy to give them both the talking stick today.

Nature lover J.C. Martin noted in a recent Roundup that oystercatchers frantically attack drones — thinking they’re predators.

American oystercatchers — and many other birds — will do anything to protect their young. (Photo/Tina Green)

He unearthed some fascinating facts. For example, The Spruce says:

When drones are flown too close to rookeries or bird nests, the noise and unfamiliar presence of a drone could drive adult birds away. This can lead to neglect or abandonment of vulnerable eggs and chicks, reducing the breeding success of sensitive bird populations.

Some birds, particularly raptors, are very territorial about their nesting areas, and if drones are perceived to be a threat, the birds may attack the remote vehicles. This diverts the parent birds from caring for their hatchlings, foraging or otherwise tending to their own survival needs. Birds that attack drones could also be injured by moving blades or other parts of the equipment.

Birds that congregate on leks for courtship displays can be particularly sensitive to disturbances, and if a drone appears to be a flying predator, the birds may scatter prematurely. This can drastically impact their ability to find suitable mates, and if the lek is not revisited, it may take generations for birds to find and begin using another suitable site with the same success.

If a drone disturbs a foraging bird, the bird may abandon a good food source and be forced to seek less abundant or nutritious resources. This type of disruption can have a catastrophic impact on overall bird populations, as malnourished birds do not breed as successfully or raise as many healthy chicks.

Hold that drone!

Drones are banned from Connecticut Audubon Society sanctuaries. Click here for details.

If you see a drone flying over a protected area, call local police. If the protected area is on state property, call the Connecticut Environmental Conservation Police: 860-424-3333.

And if you don’t care about birds, consider your drone. Large predators are more than capable of destroying it!

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Meanwhile, longtime Westporter Elaine Marino worries about the Saugatuck River “sludge” she sees lapping at the corner of Parker Harding Plaza, near the pedestrian bridge and “Starfish” sculpture behind Rye Ridge Deli.

Elaine says: “It appears to be composed of plant material (algae,  grasses, reeds), oils of some type and some trash. I am concerned because I saw ducks swimming near the sludge.”

Parker Harding “sludge” (Photo/Elaine Marino)

“I would be happy to use a pool leaf skimmer net and try to remove as much as I can, if that is advisable. Do ‘06880’ readers have any thoughts? I want to make sure I do the right thing.”

If you’ve got ideas for Elaine, click “Comments” below. If the answer is “go for it,” she will!

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Environment, technology

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Roundup: Mare Of Easttown, Stanford Rowing, American Oystercatchers …

Posted on June 1, 2021 | 2 comments

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Spoiler alert! 

If you have not finished watching “Mare of Easttown” — or if you intend to do so later — do not read on.

But if you saw the finale Sunday night on HBO Max, you know that the surprise killer was …

…

… young Ryan Ross.

The surprise, out-of-the-blue-but-now-it-seems-logical murderer in the wildly popular whodunit was played by Cameron Mann. When he’s not acting on the national stage, he’s a freshman (and basketball player) at Staples High.

Cameron’s role in the series starring Kate Winslet started slowly. But if local fans thought they hadn’t seen enough of him — well, hopefully, they watched to the end.

Click here for a series recap. Click here for the official website. (Hat tip: Jan Carpenter)

Cameron Mann

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Stanford University had a great weekend at the NCAA Division I rowing championships in Sarasota, Florida — thanks in part to some local oarswomen.

Grace McGinley — a Staples High School 2017 grad and Stanford senior, received the NCAA Elite 90 award. It goes to one athlete in each NCAA sport with the highest cumulative grade point average competing in the championships. She is the first female rower in Stanford history to win the award.

Grace recently was honored with the Pac-12 Scholar-Athlete of the Year award too.

At the championships, Grace was joined by her sister Kelsey (Staples ’18, Stanford junior), in the Cardinal’s first varsity 8+ boat. They placed second, helping lead the team’s 3 boats to a 2nd-place finish overall. It was the highest team finish for Stanford women since 2011.

Kelsey McGinley recently received All Pac-12 Conference First Team honors. She has been called up to the U-23 national team selection camp, which begins today.

Noelle Amlicke (Staples ’19) is also a member of the Stanford women’s crew team (though she was not in Florida). Isabelle Grosgogeat (Staples ’18), was a coxswain for Princeton University women’s crew at the championships.

All 4 are Saugatuck Rowing Club alumnae. Two other SRC junior girls alums (non-Westport residents) coxed for the University of Michigan; 2 others rowed for Navy and the University of California.

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Are you going to Homes with Hope’s “Stand-up For Comedy” fundraiser on Saturday, June 12?

1st Selectman Jim Marpe will be there. And to help build interest in the annual show — livestreamed from the Westport Library, but with a small audience at the Forum — he recorded a special teaser.

Click on below. Then ask yourself: Should Marpe join the talent-studded comedy lineup too? (Click here for tickets and more information on the “Stand-up” fundraiser.)

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The other day, Tina Green reported that 2 American oystercatcher chicks were thriving at Compo Beach.

Turns out, they’re 3.

Carolyn Doan captured these 3 triplets. And by “captured” I mean on camera. They’ll thrive only if they’re left alone!

(Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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And finally … today is the 74th birthday of Ronnie Wood. The former Faces and Jeff Beck Group member joined the Rolling Stones in 1975. But he was not an “official” Stone until Bill Wyman left in 1993.

The year before, he absolutely shredded “Seven Days,” at the 30th anniversary Bob Dylan tribute concert at Madison Square Garden.

2 Comments

Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: I-95 Bridge Work, “Different” Cook Book, Happy 90th! …

Posted on May 28, 2021 | 3 comments

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Some big bridge projects are in the works.

The state Department of Transportation plans work on 2.5 miles of I-95, from the Yankee Doodle Bridge in Norwalk to the Saugatuck River bridge. It includes reconstruction of the center median and right shoulders, and resurfacing the ramps at Exits 16 and 17.

The bridge over Saugatuck Avenue will be totally replaced. The new superstructure will be constructed adjacent to the existing bridge, and slid into place.

The bridges over Franklin Street and the Saugatuck River will undergo concrete deck repairs, and replacement of expansion joints.

A virtual public information session is set for Thursday, June 3 (7 p.m.). To access the meeting, and for information about commenting or asking questions, click here.

The estimated cost is $90 million. Construction is planned to begin this fall. DOT did not provide an anticipated end date.

This work is substantially more complex than the Kings Highway replacement project currently underway near Canal Street. Fingers crossed …

Traffic will flow less smoothly on the I-95 bridge over Saugatuck Avenue when construction begins this fall. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Work is moving ahead on Bankside House, the 12 units of luxury housing rising on the west bank of the Saugatuck River.

A large canvas banner hides construction from drivers passing by (or stopped in traffic) on Wilton Road. So here are 2 bird’s-eye views:

(Drone photos/David Waldman)

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Brette Warshaw’s love of food, food culture and food writing began in Westport.

In 3rd grade, she was reviewing local restaurants for the Long Lots Elementary School paper. (Angelina’s got a rave.)

At Staples High School, the 2009 graduate loved Alison Milwe Grace’s culinary classes. Brette wrote her college essay about working at the Weston Field Club snack shop.

After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, she worked at the Food52 website, moving up to managing editor. Brette the became CFO of Lucky Peach, David Chang’s quarterly food journal.

She works at Apple News now (no food jokes, please!). She writes the daily Newsletter. She also wrote “What’s the Difference” — answering questions we’ve all wondered about. (What’s the difference, for example, between a balcony and terrace? Latino and Hispanic? A dash and a hyphen?)

In Brette’s special area of expertise, what’s the difference between broth and stock? Jam and jelly (and preserves)? Barbecuing and grilling? Chef and cook? Sweet potato and yam? Maître d’ and host?

She’s turned those important questions (spoiler alert: I have no idea about any of the answers) into a new book. What’s the Difference? Recreational Culinary Reference for the Curious and Confused will be published June 8. (Click here for more information, and to order.)

It’s irreverent, informative — and when I get a copy, I’ll let you know the answers.

Brette Warshaw

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Longtime Westporter George Manchester turns 90 in June.

His son Jeff — now raising his own family, in his home town — has planned a special gift. He hopes at least 90 “06880” readers will send his father “Happy Birthday” cards.

George spends summers in Maine. This year, he’ll arrive June 5. Going to the post office is an important part of his day. Let’s inundate him (and the PO) with cards!

Send to: George Manchester, PO Box 202, South Bristol, ME 04568. And feel free to pass this on to others!

George Manchester in 2017, just before the old Saugatuck Island bridge was torn down after damage from Superstorm Sandy. Decades earlier he was involved in the construction of that bridge, as president of what was then called the Saugatuck Shores Island Association (now the Saugatuck Island Special Taxing District).

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The Westport Library’s Memorial Day Book Sale began at 9 this morning.

Forty minutes earlier, there was already a waiting line.

The sale is on today through 6 p.m. It continues tomorrow (Saturday, May 29) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday (May 30) from noon to 5.

Outside the Westport Library, 8:20 a.m. today … (Photo/Karen Como)

… and at 9:02 a.m. (Photo/Amy Schneider)

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For today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, Tina Green writes:

“Some time in the last several days, the American oystercatcher eggs hatched at Compo Beach. This year there are 2 very healthy chicks. The adult female is limping, but will hopefully recover soon.

“The federally protected piping plovers are nesting on the most northern edge of the roped off area. I had the good fortune to witness the first egg being laid while observing the female early yesterday morning.

“Westporters are lucky to have a variety of bird species nest within our borders. About 88 species breed in the wide variety of  habitats around town, including back yards, town parks, beaches and open spaces like Cockenoe Island and Aspetuck Land Trust properties.

“If the pandemic got you into birdwatching while at home, this is one of the best towns in the state to see and observe our feathered friends.”

American oystercatcher at Compo Beach (Photo/Tina Green)

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Longtime Westporter Ronald Joseph Melino died on May 22. He was 91.

The South Bronx native transplanted himself and his family from the city he loved to Westport in 1967.

Melino studied biology at City College, and was a proud employee of American Airlines. He worked his way up from the La Guardia Airport terminal to the company’s executive offices at the Chrysler Building.

Original to his core, naturally charismatic and never shy, he lived life on his own terms. He loved beach walks, tennis with pals at the Westport Tennis Club and Longshore, workouts and saunas at the Westport YMCA, reading, train travel to San Francisco, and above all else his grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Maureen. He is survived by his children Stephen Melino (Margie), Frances Zahler (Gary), Barbara Deecken (George), and James Melino (Ilana); grandchildren Alexsis Adams, Christina Deecken, Cody Zahler, Christian Zahler, Avery Chung-Melino, Rachel Melino, Emily Zahler, and Katey Melino, great grandson Isaiah, beloved nieces and nephews and their families, and his brother Eugene.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Assumption Cemetery, at a time to be determined.

Ronald Joseph Melino

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Westport’s newest police officer is Stephen Silva has joined its ranks. He was sworn in yesterday at a small ceremony, in front of his family and friends. Two brothers serve with the Trumbull Police Department.

Silva started his career in law enforcement in 2016 with the Bridgeport Police Department. He worked in the patrol division, served as an acting detective, and was a member of the department’s honor guard.

In addition to working full time as a police officer, Silva is pursuing a degree in emergency management at Post University.

Officer Stephen Silva (right) is congratulated by Police Chief Foti Koskinas.

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The Staples girls golf team — ranked #4 in the state — beat St. Joseph yesterday. The win solidified a spot in the FCIAC tournament, beginning next Thursday.

After the match, the Wreckers posed for a special Memorial Day photo.

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While Charles MacCormack traveled the world as CEO of Westport-based Save the Children, his wife Susan Ross devoted her life to public service of a more local scope. For 40 years she worked with Fairfield County’s Community Foundation; for 12 years, she was its CEO.

Susan died 4 years ago this month, after a 7-year battle with breast and pancreatic cancer. In her memory, her husband of 45 years has helped established the Susan M. Ross Fund for Great Leadership at Fairfield County’s Community Foundation. It targets the organization’s Center for Nonprofit Excellence, which provides leadership develop opportunities.

For more information or to donate, click here.

Susan M. Ross

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And finally … happy 76th birthday to John Fogerty. I’ve played tribute to his band — Creedence Clearwater Revival — and I will again. So today I’ll honor his solo work. (PS: Thanks again for that great Levitt Pavilion concert in 2017. I’m still smiling.)

 

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Roundup: Shore Birds, Sundance, Swimsuits …

Posted on May 9, 2021 | 1 comment

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An American oystercatcher is nesting at Compo Beach.

Parks & Rec is on the case.

Department staff has strung rope around the site, keeping people away from the fragile bird and her eggs. A sign offers information about her habits.

Another sign describes other threatened shorebirds. It’s fascinating to read.

And heed.

The oystercatcher sign …

… and another, describing piping plovers and least terns. (Photos/Dinkin Fotografik)

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An excited “06880” reader writes:

I’ll admit I got a little breathless when I received a Sundance email headlined, “Visit Our New Store in Westport.”

Westport?! This catalog has served as my retail therapy vision board for years; the source of countless subtle, dog-eared “tips” I’ve left for my spouse re birthday and holiday gifts.

If you’re unfamiliar with the Robert Redford-stamped brand, think Millie Rae’s meets Anthropologie — high-end, carefully curated, bohemian-Southwest-y silver and gold jewelry, as well as clothes, shoes and housewares.

I can’t wait to see how they deck out their brick-and-mortar store on Main Street (the former Ann Taylor — it’s only their 18th retail location). Am I excited enough about it to get the free gift for booking an “early access appointment”?

Why yes, actually, I might be. If they do this right, I think it’s about as perfect a fit for Westport as any catalogue-come-to-life could be.

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Last year, during the darkest days of the pandemic, the Westport Garden Club’s “Friday Flowers” project brightened up our town. Once a week, members placed beautiful bouquets at very visible spots.

The Garden Club has picked up again this year. The first Friday Flowers of 2021 was delivered to Saugatuck Congregational Church.

Keep your eyes open every week. And if you see a Westport Garden Club member: thank her!

Friday Flowers at the church entrance. (Photo/Pat Nave)

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Speaking of Saugatuck Church: Boy Scout Troop 36 — which they sponsor, and provide meeting space for — helped make yesterday’s mattress recycling drive a huge success.

The Scouts picked up 34 mattresses and box springs throughout town. Then they headed to Earthplace, and helped load the items into a truck.

The Scouts’ efforts doubled the number of items received during Sustainable Westport’s project

Troop 36 Scouts also volunteered at Earthplace, filling containers with free compost for residents.

Boy Scout Troop 36 members, with mattresses and the recycling truck.

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Tracy Rosen offers a shout-out for a local business.

The other afternoon, she and a friend went to Shearwater for coffee. But they close at 4 p.m.

They decided instead to have a glass of wine next door, at Ignazio’s Pizza.

“They couldn’t have been nicer!” Tracy says.

“They set up a table for us outside, and lit a wood-burning fire pit. They were so hospitable,  just letting us sit there with our wine, never pushing us to order anything else. But their pizza smells amazing!”

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Westport PAL’s motto is “It’s all about the kids.”

And kids of all ages love car shows.

The PAL is sponsoring one on June 20 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., railroad station parking lot near Railroad Place and Franklin Street). In addition to cool cars, there’s food and raffle prizes.

Tickets are $15 each. But kids — that is, anyone under 12 — are free. Of course.

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The other day, “06880” highlighted the Connecticut Preservation Award for 70 Turkey Hill South.

An award ceremony was held last week, via Zoom. Here’s a video of all 10 awards. The Westport one begins at 16;13. (Hat tip: Bob Weingarten)

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There’s always something new at George Billis Gallery.

An opening reception this Friday (May 14, 4 to 7 p.m.) showcases “A Glimpse Ahead.” The figurative exhibit focuses on summer, with artwork that includes swimmers, surfers, pool scenes and waterscapes. The aim is to create a sense of peace, relaxation and joy.

Among the artists: Westporter Dale Najarian. She contributes abstracted waterscapes on canvas and wood panel.

The exhibit runs through June 13.

“Jewel Landscape,” oil on canvas (Dale Najarian)

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And finally … Happy Mother’s Day, to every “06880” mother out there.

None of us would be here without you. We love you, moms!

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Roundup: Mahackeno Outdoor Center, Oystercatchers, Tulips …

Posted on April 29, 2021 | Comments Off on Roundup: Mahackeno Outdoor Center, Oystercatchers, Tulips …

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The Mahackeno Outdoor Center opens this Saturday (May 1).

And (except for the pool) it’s open to everyone — member or not — through May 31. From June 1 through September 30, the Outdoor Center is for members only.

Here’s the schedule for the first week of May:

Saturdays, May 1 and 8:

  • All day: Playgrounds, gaga pit, basketball courts, climbing wall, sports fields.
  • 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Yard games
  • 1 p.m to 6 p.m.: Archery, slides, pool
  • 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.: Canoes and paddleboats

Sundays, May 2 and May 9

  • All day: Playgrounds, gaga pit, basketball courts, climbing wall, sports fields.
  • 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Yard games
  • 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.: Slides, pool

·Monday, May 3 through Friday, May 7:

  • All day: Playgrounds, gaga pit, basketball courts, climbing wall, sports fields.
  • 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.: Slides

TBD: Archery, canoes, paddleboats

  • ·     3:00pm-6:00pm: slides
  • ·     Archery: hours TBD
  • ·     Water front activities – canoes and paddleboats: hours TBD

For more information, click here.

The Westport Y Mahackeno Outdoor Center playground.

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Single tickets for Westport Country Playhouse’s all-virtual 2021 season go on sale Tuesday (May 4, noon).

The Playhouse’s 2021 season — from June 15 through December 19 — has been reconceived as diverse entertainment, tailored for digital enjoyment. All content will be available on the Playhouse website, on-demand for patrons’ convenience. Single tickets, starting at $25 for staged productions and $20 for Script in Hand play readings, may be purchased by phone (203-227-4177) or online.

The first of 3 new virtual productions is “Tiny House,” a comedy (June 29- July 18). The second virtual production, “Doubt: A Parable” — a Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning drama runs November 2-21.

Two HD video productions from Playhouse archives will stream on-demand: “Man of La Mancha” (August 23-September 5), and another (to be announced, September 13-26).

Three Script in Hand play readings include “The Savannah Disputation” (June 15-20). The others are October 19 – 24, and December 14 – 19.

Special pre- and post-show events are planned, including virtual LGBT Night Out cocktail parties, and interactive talkbacks.

For the 2nd year in a row, there will be no audiences in the Westport Country Playhouse. But the show(s) will go on.(Photo/Robert Benson)

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Renato’s Jewelers is helping fight food insecurity — and offering a chance to win a princess cut diamond necklace, set in 14k white gold and valued at $1,700.

For every $50 donation made through Team Renato to Homes with Hope, you earn one chance to win the necklace. Click here to donate (and win?!).

Renato Jewelers’ necklace.

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Westport loves our ospreys. And our American oystercatchers.

Tina Green spotted the beautiful bird yesterday morning, at Compo Beach. She alerted Westport Parks & Recreation, to warn beachgoers to stay away.

Incubation is 25 to 27 days, Tina says.

(Photo/Tina Green)

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It’s tulip time.

Wendy Van Wie waves hello from her Cross Highway home. Say it with flowers, for sure!

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Last month, student artwork designed for the “Westport Youth Arts Collaborative: America’s Voices” project was featured at our 5 elementary schools.

If you missed it — no problem. The Westport Arts Advisory Committee has created 2 displays of lawn signs, featuring inspiring art and words from elementary and high school artists. They’re outside Town Hall and on Jesup Green, through May 5.

Student artwork on Jesup Green (Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Happy 32nd birthday to Andrew Colabella.

He’s a young Westport RTM member — but he cares about Westport (and knows its history) as if he has lived here for 100 years. Have a great day, Andrew!

Andrew Colabella, at the 2019 Memorial Day parade.

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And finally … the Levitt Pavilion has hosted some legendary fundraising benefits.

The most memorable may have been Willie Nelson. He owned the stage from his first lick, and got stronger with each song.

Near the end, I thought I saw Keith Richards hanging out near the stage. Sure enough, he ambled out, guitar in hand.

He said, “I’ve always wanted to sing with Willie.” And then he did.

Today is Willie Nelson’s birthday. Unbelievably, it’s his 88th. He — and Keith — will outlive us all.

 

 

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