Tag Archives: Ben Casparius

Roundup: Long Lots, Hamlet, Staples Lacrosse …

Posted on June 13, 2025 | 23 comments

It’s official!

And unanimous.

Last night, the Representative Town Meeting unanimously approved a new Long Lots Elementary School.

The long — and long-delayed — project got the final go-ahead, after recent approvals from a variety of other town bodies.

Artist’s rendering of the Long Lots Elementary School courtyard.

Work remains — including putting the $103.2 million contract out to bid.

The only delay would be a townwide referendum, based on the cost. A petition would need to be signed by 10% of registered voters — 1,860 people — by June 27.

But when the vote was over last night, town officials — including selectwomen, RTM and Board of Education members, and the Long Lots School Building Committee — headed the short distance from Town Hall to the Spotted Horse, to celebrate.

(Photo/Andrea Moore)

From left: Don O’Day, Jay Keenan, Tim Wetmore, Joe Renzulli, Kevin Christie, Srikanth Puttagunta, Liz Heyer. All are on the Long Lots School Building Commitee, including ex officio members Christie (Board of Education) and Heyer (Board of Finance). (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Curious about The Hamlet — the controversial Saugatuck residential/retail/ hotel project?

“06880” hosts a special Instagram Live at 5 p.m. this afternoon (Friday).

Our Instagram is 0688danwoog. Dan Woog and Dave Briggs will chat with the ROAN Ventures developers — and we want your questions too.

Post them in the Comments below — or ask them live.

Artist’s rendering of The Hamlet at Saugatuck.

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The Staples High School boys lacrosse team shoots for the state championship tomorrow (Saturday).

The Wreckers — seeded #3 in the “LL” (extra large schools) tournament — take on #4 Darien. Faceoff is 12:30 p.m., at Fairfield University.

That’s the same stadium where — 3 days ago — the blue-and-whites scored a spectacular semifinal victory.

Down 9-5 with less than 5 minutes to play, they stunned #2 Ridgefield with 5 straight goals. Tristan Schaefer netted the game winner, with just 2.4 seconds remaining.

Will Fleming had tied it up 9-9, with 33 seconds to go. Adam Udell notched the 2 goals before that.

Coach Will Koshansky’s squad is gunning for their 3rd state title in 4 years. They won it all in 2022 and ’23 — the first Connecticut championships in their history.

Go Wreckers!

Tristan  Schaefer (91) celebrates his clutch game-winning goal against Ridgefield. (Photo courtesy of Staples Boys Lacrosse)

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Speaking of sports: Last August, Ben Casparius was pulled up from the minor leagues, to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Two months later, he helped pitch them to a World Series championship.

This spring, the 2017 Staples High School graduate secured a roster spot with the team, as a relief pitcher.

Now he’s a starter.

According to MLBTradeRumors.com, “he’s done nothing but produce in the majors …. His 44 innings of work this season have seen him produce a 2.86 ERA with a 1.89 FIP while striking out 26.0% of his opponents and walking just 5.1%. Those numbers are nothing short of brilliant.”

Click here for the full report. (Hat tip: Tim Manners)

Ben Casparius

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The Yankee Doodle Fair — for a century, Westport’s favorite end-of-school tradition — opened last night.

It continues today and this weekend, at the Westport Woman’s Club and adjacent Imperial Avenue parking lot.

Today (Friday) it’s 6 to 10 p.m. Tomorrow (Saturday) the fair runs from 1 to 10 p.m. It winds up Sunday, from 1 to 5 p.m.

In addition to carnival rides and games, there is plenty of food. And, of course, a raffle. Proceeds from the fair help the Woman’s Club fund many charitable activities and scholarships.

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

More photos to come tomorrow, from the very talented Ryan Allen!

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Elle Michel Deran is an actor, the founder of Pussyboy Apparel, one of the nation’s leading trans influencers, and a 2013 Staples High School graduate.

Now — smack in the middle of Pride Month — she and Ezra Deran Michel are featured in a Cosmpolitan project called “Love Transcends.”

In it, the couple — who just moved from Los Angeles to a tiny town in Jalisco, Mexico — talk about why they left the US, sobriety, “how accountability can be sexy, and why both being trans makes it easier to cope whenever their relationship gets tough.”

Click here for the full story. Click here for Elle’s TikTok. Hat tip: Kerry Long)

Elle Deran

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Speaking of Pride: Tonight (Friday, 6:30 p.m.), the Westport Library hosts a night of LGBTQ+ comedy.

Jamie Machotka hosts the event, which features New York-based comic Calvin S. Cato, and award-winning comedian Mina Hartong.

The Library says: “Come for the comedy, stay for the community!”

Mina Hartong

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Meanwhile, next door to the Library, the Levitt Pavilion hosts 2 free weekend concerts.

Tomorrow (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.), Garth takes the stage.

The Brooklyn-based singer/songwriter/visual producer boasts over 6 million Spotify streams.

Inspired by Earth Wind & Fire, Prince, Outkast and Frank Ocean, Garth’s music fuses reggae, electronic, hip hop and R&B.

On Sunday (7 p.m.), it’s Humbird, offering “electrified, gritty, Midwest Americana, with a little magic fairy dust thrown in.

Click here to reserve free tickets for Garth. Click here for free Humbird tickets.  Tickets are also available at the box office, starting 2 hours before show time.

Garth

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The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand opens tomorrow (Saturday, June 14).

It will be open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It features fresh produce, honey, artisanal baked goods, extra virgin olive oils and gourmet balsamic vinegars, Chaga mushroom elixirs and salsas — plus fresh cut flower bouquets and WTF logowear.

Visitors can also walk through the gardens, say hi to the animals, and chat with the farmers.

Meanwhile, Wakeman Town Farm is looking for volunteers (ages 16+) to prepare and plant gardens (Wednesdays and Fridays, 2 to 4:30 p.m.). Email info@wakemantownfarm.org.

Lots o’ stuff, at the Wakeman Town Farm stand.

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Among their many tasks, Westport’s League of Women Voters does a great job educating residents about the political process — everything from registering and voting, to why municipal elections are important.

Yesterday, LWV members got educated themselves.

The guest speaker at their annual luncheon was Stephanie Thomas. Connecticut’s secretary of the state spoke in depth — and passionately — about our relatively new early voting process. She provided background, statistics, and strong affirmation for its impact on turnout.

She also stressed the need for continuing voter education.

That’s what the League of Women Voters does constantly. And as Thomas knows, in Westport they do it very, very well.

Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas, at the LWV’s annual meeting at Green’s Farms Church. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Much of today’s national politics has been called a dumpster fire. We can argue that all day.

But yesterday, there was a literal dumpster fire on Hales Court.

Quick work by the Westport Fire Department kept it from spsreading to a nearby residence.

(Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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There are still a few random spots in town — a bank and store, for example — with signs or floor decals reminding patrons of the need for “social distance.”

That COVID-era phrase is now just a bad memory. If we notice the notices at all, we just ignore them.

But what about these signs, at Fresh Market?

(Photo/Dan Woog)

When was the last time anyone called in a curbside order?

Probably the same time the sidewalk and road in front of the entrance was not under construction.

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Julie Loparo of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates writes: “We hope to find not only a possible owner, but to secure donations for a young cat’s emergency care.

“After being struck by a car on Tuesday, on Easton Road, he was taken to the VCA emergency clinic in Norwalk by Westport animal control officer Joe Saponare. He has been treated for shock, abrasions and a fractured pelvis.

“He will be released to the care of a WASA volunteer today. His emergency care to date has cost $2,750. Donations can be made here. For more information, email wasa1@optonline.net, or call (203) 557-0361.

Emergency cat care needed. 

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Speaking of animals: Deer are everywhere in Westport.

Including Old Mill Beach.

Robin Tauck spotted this pair yesterday — heading in opposite directions — and sent us this photo, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Robin Tauck)

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And finally … happy Friday the 13th!

(From sports stars to trans influencers, and Wakeman Town Farm to the League of Women Voters, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Local politics, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Ben Casparius, Dmitry Kamensky, Tom Lowrie …

Posted on May 25, 2025 | 7 comments

The last time we checked in with Ben Casparius, he had just earned himself a World Series ring.

It was a storybook finish for the 2017 Staples High School graduate. In just 2 months, he moved from the minor leagues to an important role in the Los Angeles’ drive to the championship.

What’s next for the pitcher? Perhaps League Rookie of the Year.

At least, that’s what the (somewhat biased) TrueBlueLA.com website thinks.

They say: “The season is only about 1/3 complete, so there’s plenty of time remaining. But in terms of NL Rookie of the Year, Ben Casparius has pitched himself firmly into the discussion.”

The reliever threw 3 scoreless innings Friday against the New York Mets, striking out 6 of the 10 batters he faced.

Three days earlier he got the final out of the 8th inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks, protecting a 1-run edge with the bases loaded.

TrueBlueLA notes: “Stephen Nelson on the Dodgers radio broadcast said something to the effect of any National League Rookie of the Year poll that doesn’t include Casparius is invalid. He’s right.”

Casparius has a 2.94 ERA, with 38 strikeouts and only 6 walks.

Read the full TrueBlueLA.com story here. (Hat tip: Michael Kodama)

Ben Casparius

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Westport and Ukraine have a strong relationship.

Thanks to our sister city of Lyman — a town now just 7 miles from the Russian front — residents and town officials have felt connected to the entire war-torn nation.

Ken Bernhard and Larry Weisman’s relationship goes back even further.

Nearly a decade ago, Bernhard — an attorney, former state representative, and civic volunteer for many causes — taught a class in Ukraine on US constitutional law.

Over the years, he and fellow Westport attorney Lawrence Weisman continued to work with Professor Dmitry Kamensky via Zoom. They spoke to his Ukrainian law students about the American legal system, and the current state of affairs here.

Professor Kamensky has been in the US since April. He’s lectured at several universities, and visited the US Military Academy at West Point.

On Friday, he met a small group of Westporters at Weisman’s home.

Professor Kamensky spoke candidly about the war’s effects on his country, his university and students, and his own wife and young children. It was a first-hand look at a life that includes nightly attacks, daily uncertain, and people who — despite all the devastation — strive to lead as normal lives as they can.

Afteward, he wrote to those met, “I am incredibly grateful for all the support, empathy and kindness that you share with the people of Ukraine. Even more so, with the people in Lyman and other eastern Ukrainian towns, which now face the war carnage daily.

“Thank you all for being with us on this incredibly  hard path to freedom and European future. Your dedication, your involvement, your encouragement have no borders. I felt it with my heart today and this is something I will share with my people upon my return home soon.”

A reminder about Westport’s sister city of Lyman: Our connection began through Ukraine Aid International, the boots-on-the-ground non-profit founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer.

They’re supporting 2 camps this summer in the Carpathian Mountains. It’s a chance for Lyman’s displaced children to reconnect with their former schoolmates.

The 10-day July session for 40 youngsters is fully funded. UAI is raising $10,000 for the August camp.All donations are welcome here. (Under “Designation,” select “Westport” from the dropdown menu.)

Let’s do, this Westport!

Professor Dmitry Kamensky (right), with Westporers on Friday.

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Plenty of Westporters are attending college reunions this month.

But Tom Lowrie may be the only one going to his 75th.

The longtime Westporter — who stepped down earlier this month as our town’s pickleball ambassador — attended that landmark event yesterday, at Princeton University.

Not only that: With his daughter Anne, he took part in the school’s “P-rade.”

Tom was joined by 5 others, from the Princeton Class of 1950.

They hope to see each other again, at the 80th reunion.

Tom Lowrie, enjoying his 75th reunion.

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Sixty protesters lined the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge yesterday, in another Saturday protest against President Trump and his administration.

Ages ranged from 26 to 92. One Tesla driver gave the crowd the finger, but other cars honked in support.

Canine protestor on the Ruth Steinkruas Cohen Bridge. (Photo/Pam Docters)

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A couple of miles away, the first beach weekend was a bit chilly. Early in the morning — before families arrived for the Parks & Recreation Department “Kickoff to Summer” and dedication of the new Compo Beach playground — a lone swimmer got ready to take the plunge.

(Photo/Missy Greenberg)

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“Pig Party” —  Jo Ann Miller’s new book — has just been published.

Carl Addison Swanson provides background: “In 1962, the men of the University of Texas voted famed singer-student Janis Joplin as the ‘ugliest man on campus.’ While the university and Janis were not pleased, the news of the pig party spread fast. Soon, such parties were being held at schools across the country.

“It took the ERA movement to eradicate the ugly practice.  This book is a work of fiction.” Click here for the Amazon link.

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Lifelonng Westport resident Malcolm Watson, Jr. died unexpectedly on Sunday. He was 76.

He graduated from Staples High School in 1967, and worked for Nash Engineering in South Norwalk. He served in the Navy in Vietnam during the war, and marched every Memorial Day in the Westport parade.

He owned Nielsen’s Wood Arts, a furniture refinishing business where he performed meticulous antique furniture restoration.

An avid swimmer and sailor, he was a member of the “High Tide Club,” swimming at Burying Hill Beach nearly year round.

He was a member of the Norwalk River Rowing Club, and served as a mentor for generations of younger rowers. He competed as a rower and coxswain all over the East Coast, including the famed Head of the Charles race in Boston.

He is survived by wife Roseann, daughter Amanda (Nathan), son Malcolm III, grandchildren Conrad and Rosie, brother Elmer Sniffen (Patricia), sister Nancy Sniffen, and sister-in-law Kathleen Carusone

A memorial service will be held on June 11, (11 a.m., Burying Hill Beach). In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to an organization of your choice.

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Westport continues to look gorgeous this spring — even near the transfer station.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” view shows the colorful scene between the Public Works headquarters parking lot and the Sherwood Island Connector.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … in honor of Tom Lowrie’s 75th reunion (story above):

(If Ben Casparius becomes Rookie of the Year, you heard it first here. You hear a LOT of things here first, right? If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

 

 

7 Comments

Posted in Beach, Obituaries, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Lynsey Addario, LA Dodgers, Levitt Pavilion …

Posted on March 28, 2025 | 2 comments

Yesterday’s Roundup reported that the Planning & Zoning Commission would review The Hamlet at Saugatuck on March 31. That agenda item has been canceled.

It will be discussed again at the P&Z’s April 7 meeting (Zoom and http://www.westportct.gov).

Meanwhile, the Board of Education meets April 3 (7 p.m., Staples cafeteria; livestreamed on www.westportct.gov).

The agenda includes the proposed new master schedule for Staples High School; the 2025-26 and 2026-27 district calendars, and a second reading of board policies regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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Wednesday’s New York Times’ front-page photo of a sick child in Ukraine — and nearly a dozen more, over a 2-page spread — were shot by Lynsey Addario.

The Pulitzer Prize and MacArthur “genius grant” winner — and 1991 Staples graduate — also supplied the text and interviews accompanying each photo.

Addario has traveled to Ukraine many times from her London base. She has reported from hot spots around the world, and written a memoir called “It’s What I Do: A Photographer’s Life of Love and War.” (Hat tip: Stacie Curran)

Lynsey Addario’s photo, on page 1 of Wednesday’s New York Times.

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15 current Representative Town Meeting members, and 1 former moderator, joined in the semi-annual RTM lunch yesterday, at Capuli.

The informal gathering celebrated the Great Westport Soup Contest. Guests chose lentil soup or Chowder (along with a sandwich).

Voting in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce contest ends Monday (March 31). Click here for details.

Soup’s on for the RTM, at Capuli.

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Ben Casparius picked up yesterday where he left off last fall.

The 2017 Staples High School grad — who became only the second pitcher in baseball history to make his first-ever MLB start in a World Series — pitched 1 inning of relief, int he Los Angeles Dodgers’ 5-4 win over the Detroit Tigers.

Casparius — who was picked 5th in the 2021 draft, out of the University of Connecticut — allowed 1 hit, struck out 1, and walked 1.

It was the season opener, at home, for the reigning champs.

Ben Casparius

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The Levitt Pavilion has just announced 2 new summer shows.

Michael Franti & Sprearhead — with opening act Allen Stone — are set for July 13 (5 p.m.).

Franti — also an activist, hotel owner (Soulshine Bali) and award-winning filmmaker — is renowned for his high-energy live shows, inspiring music, devotion to health and wellness, worldwide philanthropic efforts and the power of optimism. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Dogs in a Pile — the funk/jazz/rock/psychedelic quintet from Asbury Park, New Jersey — perform free on June 20 (7:30 p.m.). Click here to reserve a ticket.

Meanwhile, tickets are on sale for previously announced shows, including Pigeons Playing Ping Pong & the Infamous Stringdusters with Melt (June 1), Umphrey’s McGee (July 11) and I’m With Her, with Ken Pomeroy. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Michael Franti

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Westport firefighters responded yesterday afternoon to a motor vehicle crash on I-95 southbound near Exit 19.

Both a tractor trailer and pick-up truck were located down an embankment. The truck was heavily damaged, and partially underneath the tractor trailer, on its roof.

Firefighters from Westport and Fairfield brought the injured occupant up the embankment, using a basket and rope.

Tractor-trailer, on top of pickup truck.

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The kudos keep coming for the Staples High School boys basketball team.

The FCIAC champions have just won something else:  the Harold Swaffield Award.

It’s voted on by the Fairfield County Board of Approved Baksetball Officials, and is presented to a team that demonstrated a consistent level of good sportsmanship.

In addition, 2 Wreckers — junior Sam Clachko and senior Adam Udell– have been named to the All-State 1st and 2nd teams, respectively.

Congrats to all!

Good sportsmanship is not just for “losers.” The best team in the FCIAC also won a sportsmanship trophy.

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The Whiffenpoofs — “the world’s oldest and best-known collegiate a cappella group” — make the short trip from Yale University on April 12.

Their 5 p.m. concert at Christ & Holy Trinity Church includes a mixture of old tunes, jazz standards, and other hits from across the decades.

Tickets are $65, $55, $45, and $20 for anyone under 18. Click here to purchase. Some tickets may be available at the door.

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Front Row Seating $65 | Preferred Adult $55 and General Admission Adult $45 | General Children (18 and under) $20. Tickets available via our QR code. Tickets may be purchased at the door on the day subject to availability. Doors open at 4.30pm.

The Sorelle Gallery’s next show, featuring landscape paintings by Bri Custer, opens April 5. Light refreshments will be available.

The plein air painter explores perception, memory and color through the New England landscape. Her works will be displayed through April 26.

Bri Custer, with her work.

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In late March, these tree branches on Rayfield Road are bare.

Soon — like so many other “Westport … Naturally” scenes — they will look dramatically different.

Any day now …

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And, speaking of “any day now” (item above):

(Any day now, you can support “06880.” Why not today?! Just click here, to make your tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Police, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Downtown Parking, Trump Signs, Andrew’s Army …

Posted on November 1, 2024 | 39 comments

Good news for employees: More all-day parking has been added downtown.

Since May 1 — when 3-hour parking enforcement began — officials have monitored the lots. Parker Harding Plaza has seen “a significant increase” in available spaces.

Meanwhile, all-day spaces in the Baldwin lot (off Elm Street) have been heavily utilized — but some 3-hour spaces were vacant, especially in the morning and early afternoon.

The Selectwoman’s office and Police Department will now convert 18 3-hour spaces in the Baldwin lot to all-day spots.

In addition, 25 spaces in the Jesup Road North lot (next to the Gillespie Center, near the police station) will be converted to all-day too.

For more information about parking, and a map that includes space count and locations for timed and all-day parking, click here.

Baldwin parking lot (tan), on Elm Street. Brooks Corner is the white building to its left.

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As “06880” reported yesterday, Tim Romano was not pleased that several Trump signs were knocked over, on the grass in front of Longshore.

On Wednesday night, he took matters into his own hands — literally.

Around 6 p.m. a passerby saw him, near his Trump-festooned golf cart, hammering at least 6 signs in the same area. He dug holes, then used 2x4s glued together to secure them in the ground. The resident — who contacted “06880” — hopes he will fill in the holes, once the the election is over.

(Photo/Tony Litman)

Another reader saw the signs later, and wrote to “06880”: “It can’t be legal to put up permanent campaign signs.”

It may be.

Under “Temporary Signs,” Westport’s Planning & Zoning regulations allow “Signs for political purposes.”

That’s it.

Only 4 more days …

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Speaking of politics: Republicans have charged that illegal aliens are voting in presidential election.

They’ve said that immigrants eat dogs.

Neither of those allegations is true.

But what is true is that here in Westport, dogs vote.

Want proof?

(Photo/Cat Malkin)

PS: Early voting runs through Sunday, November 3, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Town Hall auditorium.

Voting on Election Day (Tuesday, November 5), is from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., at regular polling places. Click here to view a district map.

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Yesterday marked the 11th anniversary of Andrew Accardi’s death. The 2011 Staples High School graduate and golf team member lost a 15-year battle against neuroblastoma. He was 20 years old.

Andrew’s family, and his many friends from Staples and Villanova University remember him lovingly. And, more than a decade later, they are honoring his memory generously.

On Wendnesday, “Andrew’s Army” presented a $90,000 check to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

The funds — raised by Andrew’s Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, friend and family — come from events like an annual golf outing.

In the front row of the photo below are (from left) Dr. John Maris, professor of pediatrics at Children’s Hospital, and a University of Pennsylvania professor; Professor and lab director Dr. Yale Mosse, and Dr. Frank Accardi, Andrew’s father.

The young people behind them are brilliant doctors and technicians at the Maris lab in the Colket Translational Research Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Dr. Accardi says that Dr. Maris “has more awards, and has contributed more than anyone perhaps in the world, to the study of and therapies for neuroblastoma.

“More importantly, he is the most sympathetic, compassionate physician I have ever known. He treated Andrew as if he were his own son.”

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The Westport Country Playhouse has a 93-year tradition of presenting top-notch plays and musicals. This year they’ve added concerts, cabarets, one-person shows, and much more.

Next up: tours of the historic theater.

They’re available by reservation on Fridays and Saturdays (10:30 a.m. to noon), November 15-16, December 13-14, January 17-18, and February 7-8. Each is limited to 25 people.

Guided by Playhouse archivist Bruce Miller, participants will learn how the past has been preserved since 1931, and how state-of-the-art technology has been introduced.

Attendees will explore backstage, the greenroom, dressing rooms, scene shop, wardrobe room, posters, photos, costume designs and set models. They’ll stand on the same stage as Gene Wilder, James Earl Jones, Jane Fonda, Eartha Kitt, Paul Newman, Kelli O’Hara, Patti LuPone and Audra McDonald.

Along the way Miller tell stories, including how the WCP helped inspire Oklahoma!” and “My Fair Lady.”

There is no fee for the tour, but donations are encouraged.  Click here for reservations, and more information

 Westport Country Playhouse (Photo/Wells Studio)

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Westport’s first responders have returned from North Carolina. They deployed there to help victims of Hurricane Helene.

On Wednesday, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, emergency management director Nick Marsan (far left and far right) and Police Chief Foti Koskinas (2nd from left) awarded certificates to (left to right) officer Gregory Gunter, tirefighter Michael Durette, Deputy Chief Matthew Cohen, firefighter Patrick Dailey and dispatcher Devin Mulligan.

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A PS to the story of Ben Casparius’ World Series championship:

After the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrated their victory Tuesday, they had time for friends who watched them win the final game.

For Casparius — the pitcher called up from the minor leagues only in August — that group included fellow Staples High graduates, from the classes of 2016 and ’17.

They knew him from his Little League days.

It was a special moment, on the hallowed Yankee Stadium grounds, with the newest World Series champ.

But it was also just like old times.

Ben Casparius (center, in his new championship t-shirt), with (from left), college friend Kenny Campbell, and Staples buddies Nathan Panzer, Justin Seideman and Kenny Brill. Panzer is a former Wrecker teammate.

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In an age of Amazon and Yelp reviews, many people still rely on old-school Consumer Reports.

Next Thursday (November 7, 10 a.m.), the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston invited the public to an inside look at how CR delivers information.

Panelists include editorial director Ellen Kunes, communications director Barrie Rosen and chief content officer vice president Jen Schecter.

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between October 23 and 30.

A 25-year-old Bridgeport man was arrested for larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny and criminal mischief, for his part in the May 9 smash-and-grab theft from Lux Bond & Green. He was held on $250,000 bond. Another suspect was arrested earlier.

A 21-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with assault and threatening, after a complaint by a co-worker. The suspect allegedly grabbed the other man by the hair and neck while driving home from work, and threatened to shoot him.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 13 citations
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to yield to a pedestrian: 1
  • Unsafe passing: 1
  • Unsafe backing: 1

Be careful when backing up!

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Daniel Szymczak — a 1996 graduate of Staples High School — died this week. He was 46.

A writer, teacher, boat captain and worldwide adventurer, Dan climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro last year. He lived in Florida, the Virgin Islands, Texas, New Mexico, Mexico, Alaska, and most recently Maryland.

At Staples, Dan wrestled and played football. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, and loved Ernest Hemingway, the English language, and his dog Charlie.

Dan earned a BA in English from the University of Texas, and an MFA in creative writing from Texas State University.

After serving as an English lecturer at Texas State, an editor at the University of Texas and with Mc-Graw Hill Education, and a proofreader for the Texas Legislative Council, he embarked on a new career. Dan was a captain on a 205-foot offshore supply vessel; an engineer, mate and bosun on private yachts, and a deckhand with Lindblad Expeditions.

Dan is survived by his mother and step-father, Paula and Edward Barta; father and step-mother Gordon and DJ Szymczak; siblings Penny, Matt, Gregory and Stephen Szymczak, and Luke and Ben Barta; nieces and nephews Alexa, Easton, Jackson and Max Szymczak, and Hailey and Bailey Barta, and his former fiancée Faith Harty.

A memorial service will be held at a date to be determined.

Dan Szymczak

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Toda’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows a pile of leaves, at the “leaf dump.”

Photographer Mark Mathias says, “I’m sure none of them were collected using a gas-powered leaf blower.”

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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And finally … Happy All Saints Day!

(It’s a longtime All Saints Day tradition: show your support for your hyper-local blog with a tax-deductible donation. Just click here. And thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Library, Obituaries, Police, Politics, Sports, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Early Voting, Lead Pipes, Masquerade Ball …

Posted on October 31, 2024 | 35 comments

Early voting continues to draw steady crowds to Town Hall.

Balloting runs through Sunday, November 3, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Town Hall auditorium. Tomorrow (October 31), hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Voting on Election Day (Tuesday, November 5), is from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., at regular polling places. Click here to view a district map.

(Photo/Frank Rosen)

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In response to the recent mailing from Aquarion to water customers about possible lead pipes, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker asked Public Works director Peter Ratkiewich to contact the utility. Aquarion told him: “The water has been and will continue to be safe.”

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker adds, “I encourage residents with questions and concerns to contact Aquarion directly, or research online at Aquarion Water Company.”                                                                       

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Congratulations to Ben Casparius!

The 2017 Staples High School graduate did not pitch in last night’s 7-6 Los Angeles Dodgers victory over the New York Yankees.

But he’s a World Series champion — the first-ever former Wrecker baseball player to earn that feat.

The champs will be honored with a parade in LA tomorrow, and an event at Dodger Stadium.

Then — at some point, when he returns here — Westport will no doubt throw a party for our newest hometown hero.

Los Angeles Dodgers celebrate, at Yankee Stadium.

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Content Studio — Chirag Shah and Jay Norris’ Saugatuck Avenue production studio that’s earning raves as Westport’s newest, most versatile party/meeting/ media location — hosted a great pre-Halloween masquerade ball last night.

A diverse, intriguing crowd celebrated with DJ Marcello, enjoyed excellent food and drinks — and raised money for A Better Chance of Westport.

There were no tricks at all. But plenty of treats.

 

From left: Dan Woog, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Jay Norris, Noah Fenn, Crystal Norris. (All photos/Ryan Allen)

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Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department has announced new programs for youngsters.

Better Babysitting: This class teaches teens and young adults how to be a successful babysitter. It includes infant and child CPR, how to handle emergency situations and child development. Participants will leave this course as certified babysitters ready to work. (November 7, December 5, January 2, February 13, March 6, April 3, May 1; 4 to 6 p.m.; ages 11+).

Crafty Kids Art Classes: A fun space for children to grow creatively and socially through process art, DIY crafts and sensory play. (Tuesdays, November 12-December 10; 4 to 5 p.m.; grades K-5).

Food Explorers: Children make new food each week. Fridays, November 15-December 13; 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; grades 2-5). 

Exploring food encourages children to learn through sensory experiences, hands-on activities and working together to create delicious results. Children will have the freedom to explore food thanks to our unique “food neutral’ approach to teaching about food. During this class, children will learn to make a new food every week.

Water Polo: (Fridays , November 12-February 6; 5:30 to 7 p.m.; ages 8-13). 

Click here to register.

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Speaking of kids: The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of this year’s Halloween Window Painting Contest, sponsored by Village Pediatrics.

Over 50 children painted 40 windows throughout town, thanks to the generosity of local businesses.

Winners received gift certificates for ice cream, thanks to Momu.

Winners in the 2 school levels and 3 painting categories are:

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

“Scariest Window”: Misha Mendelson, 4th grade Kings Highway, Momu window

“Most Halloween”: Margaux Chang, Cora Comprelli, Maddy Chang, 1st Grade Kings Highway, Naturino Shoes window

“Most Original”: Lila Boyd, 5th Grade Saugatuck, Naturino Shoes

MIDDLE SCHOOL

“Scariest Window”: Mia Suchotliff, 6th grade Bedford, Cycle Dynamics

“Most Creative”: Penelope Whitbourne, 8th grade Bedford, Cycle Dynamics

“Most Halloween”: Chloe Robbin, 6th Grade Bedford, Cycle Dynamics

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Balloons are pretty.

They’re also atrocious for the environment — especially marine life.

This past summer, Saugatuck Harbor Yacht Club’s Fishing Committee ran a competition. The goal: Who could “catch” the most Mylar and plastic balloons.

The results far surpassed chair Maggie Carey’s expectations. Nearly 2 dozen families collected 431 balloons — plus plastic bags full of cans, pool floats, a beach ball, soccer ball and more.

On Sunday, prizes were awarded to winning families.

Evan, Lorraine and Kendall Berger (age 9) of Weston finished first, with 191 balloons (plus other items).

Second place went to Hannah and Eric Peck of Fairfield with 102 balloons (and assorted trash).

Rowayton Seafood found out about the competition, and doubled the value of gift cards SHYC purchased as awards.

Kendall also received a pair of Grudens fishing bibs, to help catch more balloons next year.

The balloons were collected in bunches, and solo. They represented R2D2, dinosaurs, pineapples and Spidermans.

Saugatuck Harbor hopes to repeat the contest next year. They may challenge other local yacht clubs to see who can collect the most.

And, Maggie notes, members — and everyone else — can continue collecting balloons they find on the water and washed up on shore, all year long.

The Berger family in action, on the “Saugy Dog.”

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Tim Romano and Trump signs are back in the news.

This summer, the longtime Westporter and Longshore-area resident — provoked a debate by driving his golf cart, festooned with a large political banner, around the golf course and Compo Beach. Residents thought the private citizen was a town employee.

A heated confrontation with an irate anti-Trumper was caught on video.

Now, the Connecticut Centinal reports:

A female jogger running south on Compo Road South intentionally tipped over two Trump lawn signs before she turned right into the Longshore complex. The signs had been placed between the sidewalk and the roadway.

Romano contacted police and an officer met him to review video footage he had taken of the jogger. The footage did not show the jogger tipping over the signs.

But while speaking to Romano, the jogger coincidentally reappeared.

The police report indicates the jogger identified herself as a doctor, specifically a gynecologist. She told the officer she felt that the Trump signs were “offensive” to her “as a taxpayer in the Town of Westport” and she “doesn’t want to see” Trump signs on public property.

The officer reminded the doctor that regardless of one’s political views, everyone had a right to free speech, and that includes voicing their support for candidates in the election.

The officer asked the doctor to remain patient considering the election is only a week away, and gave her a warning. Meanwhile, Romano replanted the Trump signs.

Click here for the full Centinal story.

Screenshot from Connecticut Centinal video.

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Y’s Men of Westport and Weston member Mario Ottaviano died Sunday, surrounded by his family. He was 91.

He was born in Stamford to parents who immigrated from Italy. Mario graduated top of his class from the RCA Institute. For 27  years he owned and operated Economy TV, a television and audio sales and service company.

He received a BS in business from the University of Connecticut. He later earned a real estate broker’s license, a graduate certificate from the University of Georgia Real Estate Management program, and an ICSC Shopping Center Manager CSM degree.

Mario founded Ottaviano Associates, which owned properties around Stamford. He also owned and maintained properties in Bristol. He was knowledgeable about engineering, architecture and electronics. With his keen eye for craftmanship, he oversaw the restoration of two historic family homes.

An avid boater, Mario and his wife Marilyn enjoyed living by the water in Westport for 30 years. His interests included squash, handball, skiing, square dancing, theater, and biking with his children and grandchildren.

He played guitar and ukelele, and gardened and canned what he grew.

With the Y’s Men he spearheaded the Cooking Club, and was a member of the Hiking Club and Classical Music Society.

Mario was pre-deceased by his sister Angelina Concetta Lionetti. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Marilyn Lovallo Ottaviano; children Susan of New York, John (Cindy) Stamford, Christy (Kevin Ohe) of Fairfield, and David (Jessica Bruck) of Albuquerque; and grandchildren Casey Ottaviano, Francis Ohe, Vincent Ohe, Henry Boone, Craig Ottaviano, Elena Ohe and Antonia Ottaviano.

A celebration of life ceremony will take place November 30 (10:30 a.m., Harbor Lights, 82 Seaview Avenue, Norwalk). Remembrances can be shared in the memory book on Cognetta Funeral Home’s website.

Mario Ottaviano

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Greg Manty says “Sherwood Island is the best this time of year!”

“06880” readers love Connecticut’s first state park in all 4 seasons. This is just one view, for our “Westport … Naturally” series.

(Photo/Greg Manty)

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And finally … if you’re tired of hearing “Monster Mash” played as the iconic Halloween song:

(It’s no trick. Just click here to treat “06880” to your support, through a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!) 

 

 

 

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Roundup: Aquarion, Field Hockey, Ben Casparius …

Posted on October 30, 2024 | 5 comments

The Aspetuck Health District has responded to the letter sent recently by water utility Aquarion to many of its customers.

The letter said, “Our most recent service line inventory indicates that some or all of the water service line materials between the water main and your property are of unknown material classification. Unknown means that the service line may be lead.”

The Health District says: “Please note that Aquarion’s letter is mandated by the federal government’s customer lead service line inventory effort, and that much of the contained language is required by USEPA as part of evolving regulations around the treatment of lead.

“Additionally, Aquarion has indicated that it consistently complies with all federal and state water quality standards, including those for lead. Even if a customer has lead service lines, Aquarion is adjusting the chemistry in the water to prevent corrosion that could result in lead in the tap.

“Before these new rules, adjusting water chemistry was the long-standing practice to protect consumers from lead. The lead service line inventory is a belt- and-suspenders approach across the country to get lead removed from drinking water infrastructure. Aquarion has indicated that the water has been and will continue to be safe.

“Click here for a link to Aquarion’s service line inventory map. Any resident in the service territory can look up their address to see what Aquarion has on record for their service line (both customer and utility side).

“Aquarion’s website has a comprehensive set of information about lead as well.

“Click here for a link to the Consumer Confidence Report for the most recent year for the Bridgeport Main System.”

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Congratulations to the Staples High School field hockey team!

Sofia Fidalgo’s penalty corner goal with 18 seconds left in regulation time propelled the Wreckers into overtime, in last night’s FCIAC championship at Wilton High School.

She scored again with just over a minute to play in the the extra period. The 3-2 win for top-ranked Staples, over #2 Darien, was the Westporters’ first league title since 2019, when they shared it with the Blue Wave. Darien had won 6 straight FCIAC crowns before last night.

Princeton University-bound Fidalgo  — who was also named tournament MVP — told The Ruden Report: “Maybe I got those two final touches, but it was really a team effort throughout, Some of our defenders don’t get that credit because they’re not the ones who put it in the back of the net. They’re not the ones who have that final touch. But from our goalie, our defense, every single player, it’s all a team effort, and so I’m just really proud of every single player. Those last 15 minutes were really high intensity, but we were able to manage our emotions and calm down, especially in overtime, and finish.”

The Wreckers — ranked first in the state in the “L” (large schools) division — begin state tournament play next Wednesday. Pairings will be announced this week.

Staples Wreckers: FCIAC field hockey champs! (Photo courtesy of VJ Sarullo)

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Congratulations too to Ben Casparius.

Last night, the 2017 Staples High School grad became only the second pitcher in baseball history to make his first-ever MLB start in a World Series. (But the first, no doubt, to do it on his mother’s birthday.)

He left (as planned) after 2 innings, with his Los Angeles Dodgers up 2-1 against the New York Yankees. He has given up just 1 run in 6 1/3 innings in the post-season.

The Yanks got 4 runs in the 3rd inning. after Casparius departed, then cruised to an 11-4 victory to stay alive in the Series (they are down 3 games to 1).

Game 5 is tonight at 8 p.m., on Fox. (Hat tip: Jeff Mitchell)

Ben Casparius on the mound last night … (Screenshot/Fred Cantor)

… and at Staples High School.

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Reading is wonderful, and joyous — for many people.

For some, it is challenging and frustrating.

Jennifer Bernheim — advocate, entrepreneur, and mom to a dyslexic learner — has launched a new podcast with Verso Studios at the Westport Library.

“Right to Read” is named after the organization she founded. It offers advocacy services, IEP coaching and workshops, as well as a corporate HR benefit that provides educational resources and advocacy coaching.

The podcast offers information on community resources, best practices for dyslexic learners, legislation, and success stories.

It debuted yesterday — during Dyslexia Awareness Month — with 3 20-minute episodes. Additional episodes will drop every other week.

The show is available on the Verso Studios community partnership podcast page, and podcast distributors like Apple and Spotify.

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Speaking of the Library: If you were there yesterday morning, you got an unexpected musical treat.

The Orphenians — Staples’ elite singing group — joined a few other area high schools in an inspiring workshop, hosted by the Voces8 Foundation.

The Westport Library this morning between 9 and 11:30am was in for a musical treat. Staples Orphenians, along with a few other area high school choirs, participated in an inspiring workshop hosted by the Voces8 Foundation.

Voces8 — based in the UK — teaches chamber music to high school students worldwide. They visit “music hubs” in New York, Minneapolis and Dallas several times a year.

Last year, they added Westport as a hub.

Voces8 will sponsor another workshop this spring, followed by an evening performance.

Voces8 workshop, at the Westport Library. (Hat tip and photo/Liz Skopp)

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Kenzie Hoefs has started a GoFundMe. Last weekend her brother-in law Matt Zahler of Westport lost his battle with depression, leaving behind her sister Steph and 3-year-old niece, and 3 teenage sons from his previous marriage.

Kenzie writes: “Steph owns her own business and will need to take time away from her business to make sure Winnie is supported and adjusts to a new norm, as well as cover funeral costs.

“Steph is truly one of the most selfless people I know and would do anything to help anyone. I’m asking for us to come together and give back to her to remove some of the financial stress during this very difficult time.”

Click here to contribute.

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Many Westporters are working to elect their preferred presidential candidate.

They’re making get-out-the-vote phone calls. They’re posting on social media. They’re contributing money.

Shonda Rhimes is in Georgia, urging voters in that swing state to cast their ballot for Vice President Kamala Harris.

The Westport resident — who, the New York Times said “became one of American entertainment’s most influential figures after she created the television hits ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Scandal” — told volunteers at a Democratic field office near Atlanta: “In any episode of ‘Grey’s’ or ‘Scandal,’ I could not make this up. I would not make this up. But this is real. We have a problem, people, and his name is Donald Trump.”

The Times story explored “how much star power ultimately matters to voters, who routinely list issues like the economy, abortion rights and crime as more essential to their choices than celebrity appearances.” Click here to read the full article.

Shonda Rhimes, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Jerri Graham Photography)

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Just in time to turn back clocks — it’s this Sunday! — La Plage has gone to winter hours.

The Inn at Longshore restaurant is now open for lunch Wednesday through Friday, brunch on Saturday and Sunday, and dinners Wednesday through Sunday,

They’re taking reservations for Thanksgiving, too. Click here for details.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” — perhaps our most colorful image ever — was taken this week Monday by Al Gratrix, in his Partrick Lane back yard.

Are we lucky to live in this town, or what?

(Photo/Al Gratrix)

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And finally … once upon a time in Westport, tonight — 24 hours before Halloween — was Mischief Night.

Teenagers would — oh, I don’t know, smash pumpkins.

Toss water balloons at younger kids.

Throw mailboxes into the pond across from the house where they lived. 

As you can tell, I have just mentioned a few random acts of mischief. I myself have no direct knowledge of any of those things.

At least, not until the statute of limitations is up.

Today’s teenagers wouldn’t know how to toilet paper a tree unless they studied a YouTube video of it.

Smh.

(Looking for a way to celebrate Mischief Night? Just click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution to “06880.” Thank you!)

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You Don’t Have To Be A Baseball Fan To Watch Tonight’s World Series Game

Posted on October 29, 2024 | 28 comments

You just need to care about a hometown hero.

Ben Casparius — the 2017 Staples High School graduate who has had a storybook season since being called up to the major leagues in August — will start Game 4, for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

They lead the New York Yankees, 3 games to 0. Casparius — who has already achieved more in Major League Baseball than any former Wrecker — can help the Dodgers win it all.

Two “minor” points: It’s his first-ever major league start. His previous appearances have all been in relief.

And this will be his first time on the mound in the World Series.

Game time is 8 p.m., on Fox.

Ben Caparius, with the National League Championship Series trophy. Will he win an even more important one tonight?

28 Comments

Posted in Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: World Series, Pink Aid, New Zealand …

Posted on October 26, 2024 | 23 comments

Ben Casparius — believed to be the first Staples High School graduate to pitch in the Major Leagues — now has the chance to do even better.

He’s on the Los Angeles’ Dodgers’ World Series roster.

Despite his stellar performances since being called up from the minors in August, the 2017 SHS grad’s Series status was not a grand slam. Two injured pitchers might have returned, leaving him on the bench but unable to play.

But the former University of Connecticut star is on LA’s 26-man roster.

That’s great for Casparius. And not so great for all the “06880” New York Yankee fans, who now have at least one reason to cheer for the Dodgers. (Hat tip: Jeff Mitchell)

Ben Casparius, with the National League Championship Series trophy. 

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There are many ways to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

One of the biggest is Pink Aid’s “Pink After Dark.”

Thursday’s event — hosted generously, as always, by Mitchells of Westport — raised over $1.4 million.

Thanks to its many supporters, Pink Aid will help thousands of breast cancer patients pay bills, get to treatment, keep the lights on, and put food on the table.

Honorees and others spoke eloquently about their own experiences with breast cancer, and Pink Aid’s importance to them personally.

Civil rights activist Ben Crump discussed health equity, and Pink Aid’s work helping the underserved breast cancer patients get the care they need, and provide for their families.

Shelenna McKissick moved the large crowd when she told how Pink Aid helped her and her family during her most difficult moments.

Motivational fitness guru Stacey Griffith had everyone on their feet, when she described her own breast cancer journey, and urged: Never give up!

Another highlight was the Celebration of Life Warrior Fashion Show, featuring breast cancer Warriors.

Pink Aid fashion show inspires the crowd.

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There are just 5 days till Halloween.

That’s less than a week to stock up on pounds of candy for trick-or-treaters.

Or tons, if you live by Compo Beach.

Here’s a sneak preview of that popular area:

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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Though we think so at times, Westport is not the center of the universe.

And we are hardly the only Westport in it.

Longtime residents may remember the “Westports of the World” conventions. Every couple of years, a Westport — in Massachusetts, perhaps, or Ireland — would host a celebration for the others.

We haven’t had one in a while.

But Maya Mandell is doing her bit.

The 2014 Staples alumna finished her master’s in film producing at London’s Goldsmiths University. Before graduation ceremonies this January, she set out for Down Under.

She made a special stop in Westport, New Zealand.

It’s the furthest Westport from Westport, Connecticut. But it may have the coolest sign of any Westport in the world.

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Some “Westport … Naturally” photos show birds, marine life, bears or rodents.

Some show flowers or trees.

This shows a scene without any of those. And it’s one of the most beautiful of all.

Sunrise from Hillspoint Road. (Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … Phil Lesh, the legendary Grateful Dead bassist, died yesterday. He was 84. Click here for a full obituary.

(A great weekend begins and ends with “06880.” As always, we rely ono reader support to inform, entertain, inspire and occasionally provoke our readers. Please click here to help. Thank you!) 

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Roundup: World Series, Push-ups, Compo Dogs …

Posted on October 21, 2024 | 14 comments

Ben Casparius is headed to the World Series.

The 2017 Staples High School graduate — believed to be the first former Wrecker ever to reach baseball’s Major Leagues — now goes to the ultimate games.

And he’s one reason they’re there.

Called up from the minors in August, Casparius has proven to be a reliable relief pitcher. Last night he threw 1 1/3 innings, allowing 2 hits, walking 1 but giving up no runs, as the Dodgers beat the New York Mets 10-5.

And Casparius — one of 7 LA pitchers — was credited with the win. It was his first in MLB.

Jeff Mitchell explains: “If the starting pitcher does not complete at least 5 innings and leaves the game with a lead that the team maintains, the official scorer will decide which relief pitcher is credited with the win.

“The scorer typically awards the win to the relief pitcher who was the most effective in preserving the lead during the game. Because no relief pitcher pitched more innings than Ben (1 1/3) nor had a better ERA (0.00), Ben was awarded it.

“I highly doubt any pitcher in the history of baseball has won a post-season game with fewer regular season appearances. Ben had appeared in just 3 regular season games, and now has appeared in 4 post-season games.

“However, rumors are that Dodger relievers Brusdar Graterol and Alex Vesia might be well enough to return for the World Series. That means they would need to replace 1 or 2 relievers currently on the roster.

“Ben is not assured to be back on the starting roster. But I think he’ll be in the dugout to be used in case of injury.”

Here’s the clubhouse scene, after the game:

 

Meanwhile, as the California team battled to reach the World Series — against the New York Yankees — most folks assumed the Connecticut native had grown up rooting for either the Yanks or the Mets.

Nope.

Yesterday’s Boston Globe reported:

Dodgers rookie righthander Ben Caspariusgrew up in Westport, Conn., which is Yankees territory. But he was a Red Sox fan.

“My father is from Maine and he and my mom went to Northeastern,” Casparius said. “So I always liked the Sox.”

The Globe added:

Casparius was a two-way player at North Carolina then transferred to UConn to focus on pitching.

It was a good decision. He had a 3.36 ERA as a starter in Triple A this season, made his major league debut as a reliever, and worked 3 scoreless innings in his first 2 postseason games, striking out 4 and not allowing a hit.

His message from manager Dave Roberts?

“Just be myself,” Casparius said. “It’s just another day in baseball, nothing needs to change, or reinvent the wheel or try anything new. And really just to soak it all in and just take in every moment. Enjoy it.”

Casparius hit 97 miles per hour with his fastball against the Mets in Game 3 of the NLCS. While his work has not been in high-leverage spots, Casparius picking up outs has helped the other relievers get some rest.

(Hat tip: Jeff Booth)

Ben Casparius (screenshot courtesy of Dave Briggs)

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Speaking of sports: Members of the Staples High School boys and girls soccer teams, and the field hockey squad, joined many other Westporters yesterday morning, at the annual Push Against Cancer event.

The giant push-up festival raises funds to support The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, aiding children with serious illnesses.

First selectwoman Jen Tooker was there to support the cause, and event founder Andy Berman.

Literally, as the photo below shows:

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and Andy Berman.

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A gentle reminder, from Westport’s great Parks & Recreation Department: From now through March 31, dogs are welcome at Compo Beach.

There are leashed and unleashed areas on the sand.

Dogs are not allowed on the sidewalk or boardwalk. Please keep them free for humans!

(Photo/Carm Roda)

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Gail Bernstein — who in her more than 30 years as benefits coordinator for the town of Westport solved many problems, made life better for countless employees, and earned great respect — died peacefully at her Fairfield home on Thursday, surrounded by her family. She was 89.

She is survived by her sons Paul (April) and Douglas; sister Judy (Dan); nephews Jeffrey (Jo), Matthew (Paloma), Rob (Jennifer), Peter (Scott), David (Linda); niece Martha; step-grandchildren Michael, Emily and Jason; grandnieces Sabrina and Nicole; grandnephew Michael, and other extended family and friends.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday (October 22, 12 noon, Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield). Burial will follow in Lawncroft Cemetery. F

Friends and family may visit at the funeral home from 10 a.m. to noon on Tuesday. Click here to leave an online condolence note.

Gail Bernstein

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Bees do it.

Cooperate, that is.

Nancy Vener provides an up-close-and-very-personal look, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Nancy Vener)

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And finally … in honor of Ben Casparius’ Boston Red Sox fandom:

(Good times never seem so good as when you’re part of our great “06880” community. If you enjoy our hyper-local blog, please consider supporting our work. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Bridge Vandals, Downtown Charette, Citi Field …

Posted on October 17, 2024 | 14 comments

Jennifer Wolff writes: “Once again, hostage poster thieves have taken to the Ruth Steinklaus Cohen Bridge and ripped down posters.

“And once again, the Westport chapter of RunForTheirLives printed new ones and replaced all that was stolen.

“We have an amazing community of caring people who take it upon themselves to keep reminding Westport and beyond that these innocent folks need to come home. The RunForTheirLifers who replaced the posters include Maya Rotem, Relly Coleman, Hagar Moshe, Ana White, Lynn Rabinovici Park, Julie Podziba and Nitsan Greif.

“We are tired of this cat-and-mouse game. Whatever anyone’s opinion about the conflict in the Middle East, we all can agree that the innocent hostages — many of whom on the morning of October 7 were either dancing, making breakfast for their kids, or still  asleep — need to come home. Especially now that we have seen the conditions they are living and dying in.”

Hostage posters on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.

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Got an idea for downtown?

The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee invites all stakeholders to a public charette next Wednesday October 23 (6 p.m., Westport Library).

Attendees can learn about current plans for Jesup Green, the Imperial Avenue parking lot, and a possible parking deck, with time for questions and feedback.

Maps and displays will help guide discussions.

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The Los Angeles Dodgers’ Ben Casparius secured last night’s 8-0 win over the New York Mets, in game 3 of the National League Championship Series.

It’s getting routine for the 2017 Staples High School graduate — called up to the majors only in August — to come on and succeed, in relief.

But there was another local twist to yesterday’s contest.

Mets’ public address announcer Marysol Castro has lived in Westport for 19 years. The first Latina to hold the job in Major League Baseball, she had the honor of announcing her fellow resident’s name to the CitiField crowd.

And her words were heard, presumably, by millions of Americans watching too. (Hat tip: Isa Didio)

 

(Instagram courtesy of Dave Briggs)

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If you weren’t watching the Mets and Dodgers last night, maybe you were at Compo Beach for the comet show.

Franco Fellah was.

He captured this great image of Comet C-2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-Atlas.

Check out the bright dust tail on one side, and opposite the rare, faint anti-tail, pointing at the sun.

(Photo/Franco Fellah)

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Survivor Rowing Network connects breast cancer survivors to bond and support each other through their love of rowing.

The Saugatuck Survive-Oars are proud members of the Network. Yesterday, they were part of the story on the Kelly Clarkson Show. Click below for the fascinating segment. (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)

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Among the 100-plus Republican officials appearing with Vice President Kamala Harris yesterday, at a Pennsylvania rally: Westport’s former Congressman, Chris Shays.

Shays won a special election to replace Stewart McKinney, after the Republican’s death in 1987. He was elected to a full term in 1988, then re-elected 9 times.

Shays lost to Jim Himes in 2008. He was the most senior member of the House of Representatives to be defeated that year.

Other Republicans who joined Shays and Harris in Bucks County were former Representatives Adam Kinzinger of Illinois and Mickey Edwards of Oklahoma, and former Governor Christine Todd Whitman of New Jersey.

Former Congressman Chris Shays

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Remember the Maxytaxy?

The Westport Transit District is looking for color photos of the 1970s-era Mercedes bus that traveled throughout town, picking up and depositing riders. (Its cousin, the Minnybus, did the same, but on fixed routes.)

If anyone has a piece of an old Maxytaxy — hey, it doesn’t hurt to ask! — that would be even better.

Email pgoldrtm3@gmail.com with photos or actual bus parts.

In lieu of photos of a Maxytaxy, here’s one of a Minnybus. The transfer point was Jesup Green.

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between October 9 and 16.

A 34-year-old Stamford man was charged with interfering with an officer and breach of peace, following an investigation into a September domestic violence altercation in the Saugatuck railroad station parking lot.

A 36-year-old Bridgeport woman was arrested for larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny, after an investigation into a September theft of $850 worth of merchandise from Stop & Shop.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 7 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 2
  • Failure to grant right of way: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Failure to comply with state traffic control regulations: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Traveling unreasonably fast in a school zone: 1
  • Failure to yield to a pedestrian: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Improper turn: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Failure to reinstate license: 1

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Too many Westporters — and folks everywhere else — have been affected by ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease).

ALS United Connecticut is sponsoring a walk this Saturday (October 19) at Sherwood Island State Park. Registration begins at 10 a.m.; the walk starts at 11.

The walk draws people together to honor all those affected by ALS, and remember those who have died. Click here for details, and registration.

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Noted artist Ruth Kalla Ungerer died Tuesday in her home on Bayberry Lane, surrounded by her family. She was 76.

The Pittsburgh native earned a bachelor of fine arts magna cum laude in sculpture from Drew University.

After years of artistic practice and raising 2 children, Ruth began a new career as director of the 1990 census operations for municipalities in New Jersey. She then spent more than 10 years at the Committee for Economic Development.

She continued her career in development leadership with non-profit organizations, including Literacy Volunteers of America, Montclair State University, the New School University and the Population Council. Her expertise was in strategic planning, corporate and foundation grantsmanship, and major individual donor solicitation.

After retiring, Ruth resumed her artistic career with a focus on printmaking. She worked independently and with fellow artists at the Center for Contemporary Printing in Norwalk and Milestone Graphics in Bridgeport.

Accompanying her husband Richard on business trips to China, Ruth worked with Zhang Dongmin and met Fan Li Jun, one of China’s most renowned artists.

In particular, Ruth pursued her love of the line and a feminist approach to the female form. Her work was shown in galleries and exhibitions across Connecticut and in Brooklyn.

Ruth received numerous awards and honors. She was active in the Artists Collective of Westport and the Center for Contemporary Printmaking, as a board member.

In addition, Ruth and husband became advocates for Montessori education around the world.

Ruth tried through her nonprofit work and arts engagement to underscore the importance of the creative spirit in enhancing the understanding of life’s complexities, as well as its wonders.

She is survived by her husband Richard, children Erika Grossman (Claire Psarouthakis) of Minneapolis, and Heather Grossman, of Urbana, Illinois, and older brother Ronald Kalla. She was predeceased by her younger brother, Alec Kalla.

Her family is grateful for the medical staff at Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital and elsewhere, and the many dedicated caregivers who supported her.

A graveside funeral service will be held tomorrow (Friday, October 18, 10 a.m., Willowbrook Cemetery). Shiva will be observed in her home that day, from noon to 6 p.m. .

To share online condolences, click here. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Artists Collective of Westport.

Ruth Ungerer

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows a suburban intersection of nature and the man-made environment.

Susan Garment spotted this bobcat mother, and 2 of her 3 kittens, frolicking by Susan’s back yard pool.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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And finally … today is Forgive an Ex Day. Enjoy!

(From Citi Field to Kelly Clarkson to comets in the sky, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. We couldn’t do it without you, though. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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