Two Representative Town Meeting (RTM) committees — Finance, and Parks & Recreation — meet on January 5 (5 p.m., Zoom).
There is one agenda item: consideration of the Board of Finance’s recommendation to approve $275,000 to fund a settlement between the town and Hook’d on the Sound.
If approved by the committees, and then the full RTM, the lease with the food concessionaire at Compo Beach, and the Longshore pavilion and halfway house, would be terminated before the end of the contract.
The door may close on Hook’d. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
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Before Paul Newman began filming “Slap Shot,” he learned to skate at Crystal Ice Rink — the bedraggled but beloved Norwalk rink.
We’re not sure whether Richard Gere is prepping for a skating-related movie. (“Oh, Canada,” released last year, has nothing to do with our neighbor to the north’s national sport.)
But there he was at the Westport PAL Rink at Longshore, learning from the master: Mar Jennings.
Many people probably just skated by those 2 guys, all bundled up and having a ton of fun. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)
Club203’s holiday celebration was filled with joy, laughter and spirit.
Members and friends of Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities filled the Westport Woman’s Club.
They enjoyed snacks from TCC Catering, music by Kasey Clark, gifts (Club203 backpacks, courtesy of the Woman’s Club), and cookie decorating stations with Avery Horne and MoCA\CT.
Logo backpacks, courtesy of the Westport Woman’s Club.
Kevin Christie and his wife Gina were there too. The first selectman offered a proclamation recognizing the evening, and the spirit of Club203.
Organizers say, “Thank you Westport. What a gift you have given supporting inclusion, and meaningful social opportunities where adults with disabilities can connect, be themselves, and celebrate life together.”
Enjoying the festivities, at the Westport Woman’s Club. (Photos/Stacie Curran)
Staples High School senior Neha Singh has a strong interest in financial literacy education. It is, she says, “not just a practical tool, but an essential vehicle for sustaining communities.”
She recently spearheaded an effort to bring an original multi-session financial literacy module — which she named “Count On It” — to Coleytown Middle School 6th graders.
As co-president of Mu Alpha Theta — Staples’ Math Honors Society — she organized 16 student volunteers. They led the first session for over 140 CMS students.
The 6th graders explored how to make smart spending and saving choices with money. They learned the difference between needs, wants, and waits (items they can save for over time), and discussed the 20 percent savings rule.
Two more sessions will follow.
This is not Neha’s only effort with middle schoolers. For 3 years she’s volunteered at ASPIRE, a Norwalk non-profit serving under-resourced populations.
She developed a bilingual financial literacy curriculum for them. It helps 75 ASPIRE youngsters build strong financial habits. Lessons focus on smart budgeting, real life careers and costs, and staying safe with digital money.
Neha Singh
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An alert but please-keep-me-anonymous reader writes: “The town has changed the categorization of Greens Farms railroad station parking in a row of Lot 1 (effectively the second row adjacent to the tracks).
“I always thought the entire row was for permit holders. But I got a ticket earlier this week for unknowingly parking in a newly deemed day spot.
“The sign they posted is directly behind a space. It could easily be blocked by a large SUV — especially the lower half that specifies this change.”
Greens Farms railroad station sign. Left unresolved: is the spot directly in front of the sign permit parking, or daily?
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows a bobcat skulking around Ben James’ driveway.
Thousands of Westporters thrilled to last month’s Staples Players production of “Les Misérables.”
And they did it in an auditorium that is essentially unchanged from the time current director David Roth was a student in Players.
He graduated in 1984.
Several Players officers spoke eloquently at last night’s Board of Finance meeting about the need for renovations. (Last year’s production of “Elf” was almost canceled, after a problem with rigging.) Griffin Delmhorst — Jean Valjean in “Les Mis” — delivered Roth’s comments, as the director could not attend.
With a large number of Players and parents in attendance, the BOF voted to spend $3,037,790 on rigging, lighting and sound improvements. The renovations will make the sound ADA-compliant too, with headsets for audience members who request them.
The most recent renovation to the Staples auditorium was over 30 years ago.
The Finance Board also heard a request to create 1 or 2 “team rooms,” in a section of the existing girls locker room. Coaches and athletes made strong comments about the need for those rooms — and for upgrading the girls locker room used for physical education classes too.
Board members expressed mixed views about the current disparities between boys and girls locker rooms. There is currently also a separate team room for the boys football and lacrosse squads, but none for girls sports.
In addition, the boys locker rooms were upgraded over 2 decades ago. The girls facilities were not.
The girls locker room at Staples …
Members Danielle Dobin and Jeff Hammer voiced strong comments about the differences.
A motion in favor of spending $30,000 — for design costs for team rooms only — passed.
… and the boys showers. (Photos/Siobhan Jebb)
The Board of Finance also approved several other expenses:
$25,000 for wireless access points on the Staples athletic fields.
$25,000 in soft costs to explore a concession stand with bathrooms at Staples’ Paul Lane Field.
$32,000 in soft costs to consider upgrading science laboratories at Bedford Middle School.
$70,000 in soft costs for roof replacement at Greens Farms Elementary School.
$181,500 in hard costs to replace a motorized partition in the Saugatuck Elementary School gymnasium.
$172,970 for painting exterior facades of Westport schools.
$220,000 in soft costs to explore upgrading the Longshore water supply system.
$440,000 for the analysis, design, permitting and preparation of sidewalks on Easton Road, near Coleytown Elementary and Middle Schools. The state of Connecticut will pay the full cost of construction.
The Board of Finance did not vote on a request of $124,000 to replace the Levitt Pavilion stage. There was debate over who is responsible for covering that cost.
Earlier in the Finance meeting, Dobin and Liz Heyer were elected chair and vice chair. The votes were unanimous.
Every October for years, the League of Women Voters published a Voters’ Guide.
It was filled with information about every upcoming electoral race: candidates, bios, positions, the works.
It was invaluable — the best resource for countless voters.
The print version is gone. But the Voters Guide is now online. And very easy to use.
Just click on www.vote411.org/lwvct. Enter your address, click “Submit,” the scroll down to “Your Races.”
There you’ll find all you need to know about every race this year: Boards of Selectors, Finance, Education and Assessment Appeals; Planning & Zoning Commission; Zoning Board of Appeals — and all 9 Representative Town Meeting (RTM) districts.
Interest in this election is high. An informal poll shows many voters are still undecided, for many offices. The LWV’s Voters’ Guide is a huge help
================================================
Speaking of politics: Tonight (Thursday, 6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy) is the Westport Journal’s 1st Selectman candidates debate. Registration is required; click here.
Coming soon:
Select Board Candidates Debate: October 21, 12 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
A Seat at the Selectman’s Table: October 21, 6 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by Westport Library Common Ground Initiative. Registration required; click here.
A Conversation with Board of Education Candidates: October 22, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall. Co-sponsored by League of Women Voters Westport and “06880.”
A Conversation with Planning & Zoning Commission Candidates: October 23; 7 p.m. Senior Center. Co-sponsored by League of Women Voters Westport and “06880.”
Candidates Debates: Board of Education, Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Assessment Appeals, Board of Finance: October 27, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport.
Candidates Debate: 1st Selectman and Planning & Zoning Commission: October 28, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport.
Speaking still of politics: Yesterday marked our third “06880” Instagram Live interview with candidates for the Board of Selectors.
Kevin Christie and his running mate Amy Wistreich and I chatted for half an hour. Our conversation ranged from their reasons for running, their experience and what being a Democrat means, to what they’ve learned in the campaign, and the controversy over Christie’s recusal in the soccer coaches’ non-renewal appeal.
Speaking yet again of politics: Christine Todd Whitman was in Westport yesterday. The former New Jersey governor — a co-founder (with Andrew Yang) of the Forward Party — boosted the 1st selectman candidacy of David Rosenwaks.
The Forward Party “empowers local leaders, without regard to ideology.” Their slogan is “Not left. Not right. Forward.”
Whitman and Danielle Chesebrough — 1st selectwoman of Stonington, and chair of Connecticut’s Forward Party — spoke with Rosenwaks at Jesup Green.
“Local officials make daily impacts on people’s lives,” Whitman said. “We’re building a party with a structure to last, from the ground up.”
Whitman, Rosenwaks, Chesebrough and a small group of party officials then had dinner at a local restaurant.
From left: Danielle Chesebrough, David Rosenwaks, Christine Todd Whitman. (Photo/Dan Woog)
The Board of Finance race is uncontested this year.
There are 3 candidates, for 3 spots: incumbent Allyson Stollenwerck, plus Elaine Whitney and Brian Gaines.
But the trio spoke yesterday, to an interested crowd at the Senior Center, about their backgrounds, their experiences in town politics, and the diverse talents they’ll bring to the BOF.
Before that, outgoing chair Lee Caney and current member Liz Heyer described the many functions of the board — from scrutinizing and passing town and Board of Education budgets, to examining leases, and much more.
They also explained how the BOF functions in a bipartisan way. Disagreements, they say, are worked out collaboratively. And they seldom break down along party lines.
The event was co-sponsored by the Westport League of Women Voters and “06880.”
Board of Finance candidates (from left) Allyson Stollenwerck, Brian Gaines and Elaine Whitney. All 3 will be elected. (Photo/Joan Gillman)
The other day, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — sponsor of the popular fall festival — donated $6,000 from its proceeds to Homes with Hope.
That makes a total of $60,000 since the event began — all earmarked for the Gillespie Food Pantry.
The tie-in is significant. The Slice is a feast of food for people who can afford it. The contribution is for those who can’t.
Helen McAlinden — the grateful president and CEO of Homes with Hope — says, “This support allows us to continue providing essential items like milk, eggs and butter to every family who visits our food pantry — ensuring they have the basic staples they need to nourish their loved ones.
“Each week we are seeing more families facing food insecurity. This gift comes at a critical time.”
Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden holds the Saugatuck Slice check. Presenting it are (from left) Thomas Samaranayake, Paris Looney and Katherine Murray of HwH; Matthew Mandell (Chamber of Commerce), Katie Weldy (HwH), and Maurizio Ricci and Bill Rizzuto, owners of Romanaccii and Rizzuto’s, respectively.
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Next Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (October 20, 6 p.m., Zoom; livestreamed on http://www.westportct.gov, and Optimum channel 79) will include discussion of a proposed text amendment.
It would modify the Inclusionary Housing Overlay District to allow offsite affordable housing, at the discretion of the Planning and Zoning Commission, and add criteria for consideration by the P&Z.
Click here, then scroll down for text amendment #855.
136 Riverside Avenue is an example of offsite affordable housing.
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St. Paul Westport welcomes Anthony Celia, as their new pastor. He replaces Brad Knorr, who returned to serve in Nebraska after 8 years, to be closer to his family.
Anthony, his wife Tanya and their young son recently relocated from Austin, Texas. They are excited to be part of St. Paul Westport, St. Paul Christian School, and the Westport community.
His official installation is November 16 (2 p.m.).
St. Paul Westport invites residents to 10 a.m. Sunday worship, at 41 Easton Road. Childcare during the service is available for ages 6 weeks to 3 years in the SPW nursery. Children preschool through grade 6 can attend kids’ church during the sermon.
Rev. Anthony and Tanya Celia.
=================================================
Dr. Allison Siegenfeld is a very accomplished woman.
The Westport native — who attended Pierrepont and Hopkins, then earned undergraduate and Ph.D. degrees in biochemistry from Harvard — is now a postdoctoral trainee at Harvard Medical School.
She is studying a hallmark of cancer — the dysregulation of messenger RNA levels — to better understand how treatments can target this mechanism of action. Click here or below to learn all about her latest project. (Hat tip: Celia Campbell-Mohn)
Every October for years, the League of Women Voters published a Voters’ Guide.
It was filled with information about every upcoming electoral race: candidates, bios, positions, the works.
It was invaluable — the best resource for countless voters.
The print version is gone. But the Voters Guide is now online. And very easy to use.
Just click on www.vote411.org/lwvct. Enter your address, click “Submit,” the scroll down to “Your Races.”
There you’ll find all you need to know about every race this year: Boards of Selectors, Finance, Education and Assessment Appeals; Planning & Zoning Commission; Zoning Board of Appeals — and all 9 Representative Town Meeting (RTM) districts.
Interest in this election is high. An informal poll shows many voters are still undecided, for many offices. The LWV’s Voters’ Guide is a huge help.
================================================
Speaking of politics: Tonight (Thursday, 6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy) is the Westport Journal’s 1st Selectman candidates debate. Registration is required; click here.
Coming soon:
Select Board Candidates Debate: October 21, 12 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
A Seat at the Selectman’s Table: October 21, 6 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by Westport Library Common Ground Initiative. Registration required; click here.
A Conversation with Board of Education Candidates: October 22, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall. Co-sponsored by League of Women Voters Westport and “06880.”
A Conversation with Planning & Zoning Commission Candidates: October 23; 7 p.m. Senior Center. Co-sponsored by League of Women Voters Westport and “06880.”
Candidates Debates: Board of Education, Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Assessment Appeals, Board of Finance: October 27, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport.
Candidates Debate: 1st Selectman and Planning & Zoning Commission: October 28, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport.
Speaking still of politics: Yesterday marked our third “06880” Instagram Live interview with candidates for the Board of Selectors.
Kevin Christie and his running mate Amy Wistreich and I chatted for half an hour. Our conversation ranged from their reasons for running, their experience and what being a Democrat means, to what they’ve learned in the campaign, and the controversy over Christie’s recusal in the soccer coaches’ non-renewal appeal.
Speaking yet again of politics: Christine Todd Whitman was in Westport yesterday. The former New Jersey governor — a co-founder (with Andrew Yang) of the Forward Party — boosted the 1st selectman candidacy of David Rosenwaks.
The Forward Party “empowers local leaders, without regard to ideology.” Their slogan is “Not left. Not right. Forward.”
Whitman and Danielle Chesebrough — 1st selectwoman of Stonington, and chair of Connecticut’s Forward Party — spoke with Rosenwaks at Jesup Green.
“Local officials make daily impacts on people’s lives,” Whitman said. “We’re building a party with a structure to last, from the ground up.”
Whitman, Rosenwaks, Chesebrough and a small group of party officials then had dinner at a local restaurant.
From left: Danielle Chesebrough, David Rosenwaks, Christine Todd Whitman. (Photo/Dan Woog)
The Board of Finance race is uncontested this year.
There are 3 candidates, for 3 spots: incumbent Allyson Stollenwerck, plus Elaine Whitney and Brian Gaines.
But the trio spoke yesterday, to an interested crowd at the Senior Center, about their backgrounds, their experiences in town politics, and the diverse talents they’ll bring to the BOF.
Before that, outgoing chair Lee Caney and current member Liz Heyer described the many functions of the board — from scrutinizing and passing town and Board of Education budgets, to examining leases, and much more.
They also explained how the BOF functions in a bipartisan way. Disagreements, they say, are worked out collaboratively. And they seldom break down along party lines.
The event was co-sponsored by the Westport League of Women Voters and “06880.”
Board of Finance candidates (from left) Allyson Stollenwerck, Brian Gaines and Elaine Whitney. All 3 will be elected. (Photo/Joan Gillman)
The other day, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — sponsor of the popular fall festival — donated $6,000 from its proceeds to Homes with Hope.
That makes a total of $60,000 since the event began — all earmarked for the Gillespie Food Pantry.
The tie-in is significant. The Slice is a feast of food for people who can afford it. The contribution is for those who can’t.
Helen McAlinden — the grateful president and CEO of Homes with Hope — says, “This support allows us to continue providing essential items like milk, eggs and butter to every family who visits our food pantry — ensuring they have the basic staples they need to nourish their loved ones.
“Each week we are seeing more families facing food insecurity. This gift comes at a critical time.”
Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden holds the Saugatuck Slice check. Presenting it are (from left) Thomas Samaranayake, Paris Looney and Katherine Murray of HwH; Matthew Mandell (Chamber of Commerce), Katie Weldy (HwH), and Maurizio Ricci and Bill Rizzuto, owners of Romanaccii and Rizzuto’s, respectively.
================================================
Next Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (October 20, 6 p.m., Zoom; livestreamed on http://www.westportct.gov, and Optimum channel 79) will include discussion of a proposed text amendment.
It would modify the Inclusionary Housing Overlay District to allow offsite affordable housing, at the discretion of the Planning and Zoning Commission, and add criteria for consideration by the P&Z.
Click here, then scroll down for text amendment #855.
136 Riverside Avenue is an example of offsite affordable housing.
=================================================
St. Paul Westport welcomes Anthony Celia, as their new pastor. He replaces Brad Knorr, who returned to serve in Nebraska after 8 years, to be closer to his family.
Anthony, his wife Tanya and their young son recently relocated from Austin, Texas. They are excited to be part of St. Paul Westport, St. Paul Christian School, and the Westport community.
His official installation is November 16 (2 p.m.).
St. Paul Westport invites residents to 10 a.m. Sunday worship, at 41 Easton Road. Childcare during the service is available for ages 6 weeks to 3 years in the SPW nursery. Children preschool through grade 6 can attend kids’ church during the sermon.
Rev. Anthony and Tanya Celia.
=================================================
Dr. Allison Siegenfeld is a very accomplished woman.
The Westport native — who attended Pierrepont and Hopkins, then earned undergraduate and Ph.D. degrees in biochemistry from Harvard — is now a postdoctoral trainee at Harvard Medical School.
She is studying a hallmark of cancer — the dysregulation of messenger RNA levels — to better understand how treatments can target this mechanism of action. Click here or below to learn all about her latest project. (Hat tip: Celia Campbell-Mohn)
Here in Westport we’ve endured long and heated debates, on a series of topics.
Really long. And very heated.
The outcomes have not pleased everyone. They never will.
But decisions have been made. And they’ve been made by people we elected to make them.
The Planning & Zoning Commission spent hundreds of hours on one topic — the Hamlet — this year alone. There were many other agenda items too. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
They’re not random men and women. They’re fellow Westporters.
Our neighbors.
They sit through long — really long — meetings. They spend time before, reading reports. They spend time after, listening to residents.
You and I may not like their decisions. But they’re the ones who have stepped up, volunteered, and been elected or appointed to do the job.
Some are running again. Some have stepped down.
Some newcomers are on the November ballot. Some are petitioning to join them.
All deserve our thanks. They are doing the thankless, tedious and trying work of government.
We can watch the meetings, or not. It’s our choice.
They’re the ones sitting there, in person or on Zoom.
And some of those meetings are really long.
(PS: Interested in running for the Representative Town Meeting? You need just 25 signatures from voters in your district. The deadline is September 9. Contact Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton: 203-341-1105; jdunkerton@westportct.gov.)
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
A bipartisan group of Westport town officials has urged Governor Ned Lamont to veto HB 5002.
The controversial omnibus housing bill would “pose real risks to both local governance and the broader state economy,” the 9 elected leaders say. Areas of concern range from parking and potential as-of-right conversion of all commercially zoned properties to residences, to a provision allowing courts to require municipalities to pay developers’ legal fees.
The signers — including Republican 1st Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore, plus Board of Finance vice chair Michael Keller; Democratic 3rd Selectwoman Candice Savin, Planning & Zoning chair Paul Lebowitz and vice chair Neil Cohn, and Board of Finance chair Lee Caney, plus non-partisan Representative Town Meeting moderator Jeff Wieser and deputy moderator Lauren Karpf — note that Westport has taken “meaningful, proactive steps to expand access to housing”; established an Affordable Housing Fund of over $1 million, and maintained a homeless shelter downtown.
HB 5002 was passed by both General Assembly houses. Lamont has not yet decided whether to sign or veto it, or allow it to pass into law without his signature.
The Board of Finance was scheduled to meet June 4, to discuss a $98 million appropriation for the new Long Lots Elementary School.
That meeting — for discussion only — has been rescheduled for June 5 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium). The funding amount has been reduced to $93 million.
A second Long Lots meeting is set for June 11. A vote may be taken then.
Meanwhile, before the full Representative Town Meeting votes on the final approval, the RTM Education Committee discusses the request for funding.
That meeting takes place June 10 (5:30 p.m., Town Hall Room 201).
The current Long Lots Elementary School. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)
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At 10 p.m. Tuesday on Roseville Road near Joanne Circle, a coyote standing near the wood line lunged at a dog. The owner quickly took the dog inside.
Westport Animal Control advises:
Supervise your pets while they are out in the yard.
While out at night with your pets, carry a powerful flashlight and keep tabs on your surroundings.
Coyotes can be successfully driven away using noise (high-decibel whistle or air horn) or thrown objects (balls, sticks, rocks).
If you are walking a small pet and see a coyote, pick the pet up. Any time you are with your pet and see a coyote, give them a wide berth. Retreat gradually, but keep eyes on the coyote. Be assertive and noisy (yell or use a whistle).
A fenced enclosure is the best way to prevent unexpected encounters. Deer fences do a poor job of excluding smaller species like coyotes. They often slip underneath.
Motion-sensitive lights help alert homeowners to wild intruders at night, and help deter coyotes.
Pets smaller than 30 pounds are at serious risk from coyotes, but on occasion they tussle with larger pets. Even larger pets benefit from supervision.
Coyotes can be active day or night.
Coyotes are found throughout North America. They are adaptable and opportunistic. Statistically, they pose very little risk to humans. There have been only 1 recorded fatal attacks by coyotes on humans in the last 100 years in North America.
But they do pose risks to pets.
Compo Beach area coyote. (Photo/Richard Gabor)
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One of Westport’s signature (and most fun) fundraisers is just a week away.
“Taste of Westport” takes over the Inn at Longshore on June 5 (6 p.m.). 100% of the proceeds go directly to CLASP, which provides homes and services for adults with autism and developmental disabilities across Fairfield County.
This year’s lineup of superb food and great drinks is the biggest ever. There’s a first taste from ănăn (the team behind Nômade), and first-time participants The Bridge at Saugatuck, The Whelk, Bar Bushido, The Blondinit and Barcelona.
Plus a caviar bar by Nordic Fish (paired with Moët Champagne), along with returning favorites like Gabriele’s, La Plage, Don Memo, Artisan and more.
And … a martini bar, signature cocktail, Oggi gelato, Bridgewater chocolate …
The silent auction features a Lime Rock driving experience, tickets to “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” weekend getaways, wines, designer jewelry, opera tickets, a block party package with live entertainment, a week of dinners from participating restaurants, and (of course) more.
The only thing slower than Post Road traffic is the pace of the Post Road renovation.
But occasionally, work is done.
Here’s the view by Volvo of Westport:
(Photo/Michael Calise)
Notice we said “work is done.” Not necessarily “progress.”
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From the road to the water … Eric Bosch sends this photo:
He writes: “The ‘bug light’ blinks every 3 seconds just off the canons, marking the entrance from Long Island Sound into the Saugatuck River.
“In my 60+ years here, I’ve never seen it pulled into Compo Basin.”
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Pride Month parties continue on June 22.
Westport Pride presents “Fête en Blanc” (June 22, 6 to 9 p.m., Westport Museum for History & Culture). The fundraiser for The Circle Care Center — a Norwalk-based HIV prevention and treatment organization — celebrates “community, culture and compassion.”
The outdoor event incudes music, dancing, drinks, raffles and auctions. Attendees can purhcase Latin-inspired cuisine from a food truck — and should wear white. (That’s a tribute to the “white parties” in the LGBTQ+ community in the 1980s and ’90s, which raised funds for HIV/AIDS awareness and support.)
Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between May 21 and 28.
A 40-year-old New Rochelle, New York woman was charged with larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny and forgery, after a report that various Webster Bank branches were scammed out of $3,000 since January. The woman allegedly deposited forged money orders into her account. She was held on $50,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 12 citations
Driving while texting: 4
Failure to renew registration: 2
Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
Driving the wrong way on a 1-way street: 1
Following too closely: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1.
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Richard Silverman — cantor emeritus of Temple Israel — has died.
The temple says: “A cantor is the voice of a congregation, and from 1988 to 2013, Cantor Silverman was our voice.
“His was the voice that helped us greet Shabbat and holidays, the voice of Jewish celebration and Jewish comfort, the voice that supported b’nei mitzvah students in preparation for their milestone day, and the voice upon which our prayers ascended to the Divine. Cantor Silverman played a very special role in the lives of so many in our congregation, and his memory and music will be an abiding blessing.”
Cantor Richard Silverman is survived by his wife Batya, children Sarit and Elan (Heather), and grandchildren Sarah, Jacob and Emilie.
A funeral will be held on June 3 (11 a.m., Temple Israel), and livestreamed. Shiva will be observed on June 3 following the burial until 8 p.m., and June 4 and 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. (with a minyan at 6:30 each evening) at River Valley Retirement Community (101 Oakview Dr, Trumbull).
Cantor Richard Silverman
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In today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature, the eagle has landed (at Compo Beach).
In the flurry of news about affordable housing, Staples coaches, the Hamlet, the Cribari Bridge, Long Lots Elementary School and the Community Gardens — are we forgetting anything? — we missed an important occasion yesterday.
Yesterday marked the 190th anniversary of the founding of Westport.
The official date of our establishment as a separate town — cleaved off from Norwalk, Weston and Fairfield — was May 28, 1835.
We apologize for the oversight. But don’t worry: May 28, 2035 is already on our calendar. (Hat tip: Harris Falk)
(The proper gift for a 190th birthday is … uh, we have no idea. The proper gift for “06880” — today, and every day, is a contribution to support our work. Thank you for clicking here!)
That was the work of the Board of Finance this week.
On Monday, the 5 members took about half an hour to unanimously approve the Board of Education’s $150.4 million 2025-26 budget.
Last night, they voted to adopt almost all of the 1st Selectwoman’s proposed $87.2 million budget.
The only cuts were to defund the Wheels2U train station ride-share program ($342,400 out of the total Westport Transit District request of $491,800), and $25,000 from Earthplace (out of $105,000),
The transportation cuts would leave the WTD with services solely for the elderly and disabled.
The BOF has voted to cut Transit District funding often in the past, citing low ridership. Nearly as often, it has been restored by the Representative Town Meeting.
Lee Caney, Jeff Hammer, Liz Heyer, Rich Hightower and Michael Keller voted for the reductions.
Danielle Dobin and Allyson Stollenwerck objected. During the Earthplace discussion, Dobin cited the importance of 62 acres of open space, and the Harbor Watch program.
On April 2 (Town Hall, 7:30 p.m.), the BOF will consider requests for restoration. The Representative Town Meeting then has the opportunity to restore funding for both items in May.
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Less than a month out from the Compo Beach playground build, there is plenty of news to report.
And there are plenty of ways to help.
Volutneers are still needed, from April 21-26. Click here to see the many jobs available. “Skilled” labor is important — but no building experinece is needed for other tasks.
Whether you renovated your home by yourself or never lifted a hammer, this is a great chance to get outside, contribute to the town, and meet interesting people.
Also needed: tools.
Saws, bolt cutters, tape measures, wheelbarrows, tents, hammers (of course): the playground committee needs them all.
They can be donated or loaned, for the duration of the build. (You don’t need to haul your own tools back and forth each day.) Click here to see all that’s needed, and click on what you can supply (and when you can drop it off).
And for anyone who donated a picket for the previous rebuild, in 2009: If you want to keep yours as a souvenir, stop by the playground on SAturday, April 12 (9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m.). You can also to before or after volunteer shifts during the build, April 21-26.
For more information on the Compo Beach playground project, click here.
Volunteers building the Compo Beach playground, in 1989. Next month, you can join the rebuild.
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The Longshore golf course opens for the season this Friday (March 28).
“We invite golfers of every level to come and enjoy the beautifully manicured 18 holes that comprise this gem of the Westport parks system,” says Parks & Recreation Department director Erik Baribieri.
“Our head professional Jon Janik and course superintendent Sean Charles have been working hard to make sure the pro shop, staff and course are ready.”
Click here for golf course information, including advanced and same day tee time bookings. Pro Shop phone numbers are 203-221-0900 and 203-226-9785.
Westport residents who would like to purchase a golf handpass, or whose handpass has expired, can renew or purchase online here, or in person weekdays (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) at the Parks and Recreation Department near the first tee.
Fore! (Photo/Nicole Gorman)
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Looking for a cute puppy — especially one to bring home?
Fetch Rescue is sponsoring an adoption event this Sunday (March 30, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) at Earth Animal.
One of many puppies up for adoption this Sunday, at Earth Animal.
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Staples High School students racked up awards recently in 2 different areas: business and international relations.
Nine teams placed at the Future Business Leaders of America State Leadership Conference at Southern Connecticut State University.
“Competing in FBLA allows students to show their interest and abilities in subjects we do not teach at Staples,” says Sarah White, math instructor and FBLA advisor.
Staples students who placed at the FBLA State Leadership Conference include:
First Place: Ollie Vynerib (Advertising); Ethen Perry, Aidan Stubbs, Jackson Tracey (International Business)
Second Place: Jack Jacob (Securities & Investments); Max Benke, Jonah Bomback (Sports & Entertainment Management)
Third Place: Jay Nicholds, Luke Spera, RJ Wilks (Sales Presentation); Jack Leonard (Supply Chain Management)
Fourth Place: Chris Taylor (Supply Chain Management); Matthew Tybur (Organizational Leadership)
Fifth Place: Mikael Nagy (Introduction to Financial Math).
In addition, 4 students earned recognition at the National High School Model United Nations conference. Competing against schools from around the world, they displayed strong knowledge, diplomacy, and debating and leadership skills.
“Our students were very motivated and focused with their committees,” says Spanish teacher Horacio Ballesteros.
“This was an unforgettable experience for our students, with all grades represented in diverse contemporary groups addressing important global issues.”
Receiving the National High School Model United Nations Award of Merit:
Jacob Calandro and Julien McMahon (Special Political and Decolonization Committee); Alessandra Spadea and Jori Altman (Social, Cultural, and Humanitarian Committee).
Julien McMahon and Jacob Calandro.
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Congratulations to Lisa Wexler!
The Westport/Weston probate judge received the Henry C. Lee Award from Jane Doe No More — a Connecticut non-profit devoted to erasing the stigma of sexual abuse — at their 14th annual gala last weekend.
Noted pathologist Dr. Henry Lee and Jane Doe No More founder Donna Palomba presented the award. It recognized Wexler’s work on the radio and in court to bring awareness and empathy to victims of sexual violence.
The Lisa Wexler Show airs on WICC (600 AM/95.9 FM) weekdays, from 10 a.m. to noon. Podcasts are available on Apple and Spotify, and at lisawexler.com.
Judge Lisa Wexler (center) with Dr. Henry C. Lee and Donna Palomba.
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Earthplace — the educational and environmental center tucked away in the northwest Westport woods — has a packed calendar for families and adults in April.
Activities include:
Craft n’ Sip: Windchimes(April 3, 6-8 p.m.; make a wind chime with natural materials, guided by naturalists; BYOB and snacks; 21+).
Winged Wonders (April 6, 1 p.m.; bird-on-glove demonstration to learn about raptors).
Family Campfire: Vernal Pool Party (April 11, 6:30-8 p.m.; s’mores, spring crafts, animals and more).
Plein Air Painting on the Trails (April 12, 10 a.m.-noon; create artwork along the trail; all levels of artists, all mediums welcome; light refreshments).
Environmental Learning Series: Lights Out Connecticut!(April 15, 7-8 p.m.; lecture and Q-and-A via Zoom; learn about light pollution and its effects on birds, wildlife and human health.
Group Canoe Paddle (April 27, 1-3 p.m.; join naturalists on the Saugatuck River; equipment provided).
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Meanwhile, registration closs soon for several after-school programs at Earthplace, for children and teenagers. They begin early next month, and include:
Nature Art Club (Thursdays, 4-5 p.m.; nature-based art, grades 3-6).
Free Range Homeschoolers (Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m.; explore streams, meadows and woods with naturalists; ages 4-11).
Teen Volunteer Club(Tuesdays or Thursdays, 4-5 p.m.; learn animal care skills with hands-on training
Junior Staff(Fridays, 4-5 p.m.; explore plants, insects and other local wildlife alongside naturalists, grades 6-12)
Also at Earthplace: Kids’ Night Out (March 28, 6-9 p.m.; ages 5-12). Drop your children off for an evening of fun and learning; then relax and enjoy your night off).
Click here for details, including registration, fees and more.
Dustin Lowman — the 2011 Staples High School graduate/singer-songwriter making waves on the New York folk-ish scene — will play at Voices Café April 5.
That show is already sold out. But Dustin’s many fans can hear him interviewed by another former Westporter this Thursday (March 27, 2 p.m.).
Mike Zito has retired as a Staples radio and music production teacher. But he continues a longtime gig — hosting radio shows about American folk music — on WPKN, the eclectic and always interesting Bridgeport station.
In fact, Zito has been on ‘PKN since he was a student there, in the 1970s.
You listen on 89.5 FM, or click here for the livestream. (Hat tip: Jim Honeycutt)
Mike Zito
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo could be from anywhere along our coast. Pam Docters spotted these early spring reeds at Old Mill Beach.
And finally … in honor of the upcoming Earth Animal/Fetch Rescue adoption event (story above):
(Another day, another Roundup. Another reminder that “06880” relies on reader support. And another link to click on, to help. And another thank you, to all our contributors!)
The Board of Finance will hold public hearings soon about proposed 2025-26 budgets.
Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein present their budget on March 24. 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker offers the town budget on March 25. Both meetings begin at 7:30 p.m., in the Town Hall auditorium.
The sessions will be broadcast on Optimum Channel 79, and/or livestreamed on the town website. (On the website, select “How Do I” heading, then “Watch Town Meetings”.)
Last month, Westporters were invited to a presentation about the proposed public safety complex. The new facility would bring the Police and Fire Departments, and Emergency Medical Services, under one roof.
The site most often mentioned is on the Sherwood Island Connector. On April 3 (1 p.m.), residents are invited to the I-95 Exit 18 commuter parking lot, to tour the location, view site maps and provide feedback.
Town officials, project planners and public safety representatives will answer questions and provide details about the project’s goals and benefits to the community.
Questions? Call Fire Chief Nick Marsan at (203) 341-5000, or email nmarsan@westportct.gov.
The meeting place for the April 3 tour of a proposed public safety facility: the I-95 Exit commuter parking lot, on the Sherwood Island Connector. The entrance would be just north of this site.
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The Westport Library was packed yesterday, for the Westport Book Shop’s annual benefit.
Since opening across Jesup Green from the Library 2021, the store has provided over 8,750 hours of paid part-time employment and job training for more than a dozen people with disabilities.
Employees learning and use skills — from retail to computer and photography — that are transferable to other environments, and interact often with customers.
Meanwhile, book sales have also generated more than $200,000 for the Library.
The benefit supported both the Westport Book Shop and the Library. There was entertainment from the Staples Jazz Ensemble, plenty of food and drink, and silent and live auctions.
All the employees were there, proudly helping out.
And every attendee got a book, signed by prolific author Ed McBain.
Westport Book Shop employee Bella Rizzi greeted guests. She sat behind a book that had been made into an artful vase. (Photo/Dan Woog)
A sneak peek at the new Main Street restaurant comes next Friday (March 21, 5:30 p.m.).
Coldwell Banker’s Judy Michaelis is hosting a pre-opening celebration. And as guests enjoy the very intriguing menu, they’ll also be doing something good.
100% of all ticket proceeds go to Westport EMS. For those who don’t know: Our fantastic Emergency Medical Service has to pay for everthing. Ambulances, fly cars, medical equipment, medications, training for the current and next generation of volunteer EMTs serving the community, even Band-Aids — they fund it all. (The price for an ambulance these days is about $400,000, if that helps you plan a donation.)
Click here for tickets, and more information. See you at Sushi Jin!
(Photo/Sal Liccione)
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Just around the corner from Sushi Jin, the Levitt is getting ready for its opening.
It’s been around a lot longer — more than 50 years — and it knows how to put on a show.
Umphrey’s McGee (July 11). Ticket sales for the eclectic improv-rock band start at 10 a.m. today (Friday).
Tickets are on sale now for I’m With Her, with Ken Pomeroy. The highly regarded folk trio offers a VIP experience: early admission to the show, a stripped-down intimate short performance, and a Q-and-A.
As always, members enjoy discounts and pre-sales on paid-ticket programming — while helping support the 50-plus nights of free shows. Click here for details.
Six large photos by New York Times Pulitzer Prize-winner Lynsey Addario are on display at the Senior Center.
They’re part of the 1991 Staples High School graduate’s series “Veiled Rebellion,” depicting many facets of women’s lives in Afghanistan. Other works from the series hang at the Westport Library, Staples and Town Hall.
On Wednesday, Westport Public Art Collections member Jilda Manikas gave a presentation about the photographer and her photos, at the Senior Center.
Lynsey’s proud mother Camille was there. She answered questions from the audience, including about Lynsey’s recent work in Ukraine.
(Lynsey Addario for the New York Times)
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You’re never too young to help others.
The Greens Farms Elementary School Long Neck Leaders — a leadership group of students in grades 3-5 — recently created a community fundraiser to support Rach’s Hope.
The non-profit honors Rachel Doran, a member of the GFS class of 2008. Her sister Ellie also attended Greens Farms.
Their mother, Lisa Doran, is a GFS literacy coach. The Long Neck Leaders invited her to teach them about the charity, which helps families weather the storm of a child’s critical illness.
The students then promoted an all-school pajama day. (Rachel made and sold PJs in local shops, a project she started during elementary school.)
The PJ Day raised $1,300 — much of it thanks to the personal connections the students felt.
The Dorans look forward to Rach’s Hope’s adult fundraiser. The 2025 PJ Gala is March 29 (FTC, Fairfield). The evening includes live music, great food, and plenty of love and hope. For tickets and more information, click here.
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Chris Dobransky has developed a devoted Instagram following, for his recipes and reviews.
He and his family order regularly from Ed’s Fusion, the Italian-and-Mexican spot across from Stop & Shop. He likes the friendly family feel.
Chris wants “06880” readers to know about a new item: birria.
The Mexican dish dates back to the 16th century, when Spanish conquistadors introduced domesticated livestock, including goats, to Mexico.
Ed’s Fusion’s birria is made with tender beef brisket, Chris says. It’s cooked for over 6 hours on low heat in a broth with a “secret: blend of spices. There are several forms, including tacos, but quesadillas, calzones and pizza.
Each birria item comes with green chile and habanero sauces, and a spiced consomme.
The Department of Public Works’ annual Household Hazardous Waste Day is Saturday, April 5 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station).
This free program enables residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich to safely dispose of household hazardous wastes.
Products like cleaners, gasoline and pesticides can pollute the environment and jeopardize public health if disposed of improperly.
Residents may dispose of these types of hazardous waste: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.
Before bringing household hazardous material to the collection site:
Make sure items are clearly labeled. Do not mix chemicals. Incompatible products may react, ignite, or explode, and mixed waste may become non-recyclable.
Keep products in original labeled container.
Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
Tighten lids of all containers, and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
Put boxes in the trunk or in the back of the vehicle away from passengers.
Keep your windows open.
Leave pets and children home.
Do not smoke or eat while handling hazardous materials.
Westport residents may recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector. It’s open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.
The following items are not acceptable: ammunition, flares, and commercial hazardous waste.
Questions? Call Public Works: 203-341-1793.
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Sure, you shop at the Westport Farmers’ Market. You love the fresh fruits, vegetables, produce, meats and more, and you stock up every Thursday, at the Imperial Avenue parking lot (spring through all), and Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center (winter).
But wouldn’t it be nice to have some great recipes, to add extra creativity to all that great food?
The Farmers’ Market Recipe Program is your answer.
Directed by chef Jes Bengtson of @terraincafe, the Farmers’ Market Instagram features monthly videos by top local chefs and foodies. Each one includes information on how to source ingredients from WFM, how to prep, and how to prepare.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker made the proclamation yesterday, at Calise’s Food Market. It was the first serving of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce Great Soup Contest.
All month long, 16 soup-making spots will compete in 7 categories. Judging will be done online, by soup-loving Westport residents.
And every voter is entered into a drawing to win a free soup, from one of the 7 winners.
The 16 competitors are Basso, Calise’s, Capuli, Gaetano’s, Garelick and Herbs, Gold’s Deli, Joe’s Pizza, Kawa Ni, Little Pub @ Dunville’s, Old Mill Grocery, Organic Market, Rive Bistro, Rizzuto’s, Romanacci, The Whelk and Tutti’s.
The 7 categories are: Best Chicken, Beef, Vegetable, Asian, Onion and Matzoh Ball Soup, and Best Chowder. Each place can enter up to 4 categories, but can win no more than 2.
Voting runs through March 31. Visit the venues, enjoy their offerings, then click here to vote.
Kicking off the Great Soup Contest (from left): town attorney Ira Bloom, Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell, assistant town attorney Eileen Flug, 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Calise’s owner Carmen Cenatiempo.
Speaking still of food: Finalmente has not served its last meal.
The Post Road East restaurant — next to Jeera Thai, across from Design Within Reach — will reopen, perhaps as early as the end of this month.
The new owners — Giuseppe Cinque, a familiar name to Fairfield County diners — will keep the old name. But he’s updating the menu, and renovating the interior.
CT Insider first reported the news. Click here for their story.
Finalmente, before it closed last May after 19 years.
The Board of Finance begins its review of 2 proposed 2025-26 budgets tomorrow (Wednesday, March 5, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium; livestream on Cablevision Channel 79, and westportct.gov).
First Selectwoman Jen Tooker will present the town budget. Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein offer the Westport Public Schools budget.
Click here to view Tooker’s proposed budget. Click here for Scarice and Goldstein’s proposed budget.
If you watched the Academy Awards on Sunday, you saw plenty of gorgeous dresses.
You may have especially admired Halle Berry, Queen Latifah and Whoopi Goldberg’s outfits.
Each was special. But all were created by Christian Siriano. The fashion designer lives in Westport, and has his own shop-by-appointment store, The Collective West, on Post Road East. (It will close soon however, and relocate to New York.)
Click below to see Whoopi Goldberg. Click here for more of Siriano’s designs, on his Instagram page.
Whoopi Goldberg, in a Christian Siriano gown.
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Speaking of the Oscars: Michael McCorry Rose interrupted rehearsals for Westport Country Playhouse’s next show — the romantic comedy “Theatre People” — to attend Sunday night’s ceremony.
He had good reason: He was a cast member of the film “Wicked.”
But the Playhouse was on his mind. Standing on the carpet, he gave a shoutout to the character he will portray beginning March 25: the narcissistic Victor Pratt, aka “Broadway’s Favorite Baritone.”
Click here for more information, and tickets to “Theatre People.” Click below for the video of Rose, at the Oscars.
Westport Pride’s annual drag show is going on the road.
This year’s special guest is Patty Bourée. The 18+ event — with cocktails, songs and comedy — is March 22 (7 p.m.) at The Knowlton, Bridgeport’s premier event space.
“Come dressed to spring eternal,” organizers say. And why not? It’s the second day of spring!
Sara Caswell headlines this week’s “Jazz at the Post” (Thursday, March 6, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7; music charge $20, $15 for veterans and students).
A classically trained string player, she has toured or recorded with Bruce Springsteen, Esperanza Spalding, Regina Carter and others, and led her own band. Caswell teaches at the Berklee College of Music, New York University and the New School.
Joining her are bassist Ike Sturm, guitarist Jesse Lewis, painist Alex Browner and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.
And finally … in honor of Westport Pride’s upcoming drag show (story above):
(Where else but “06880” can you learn about hazardous waste, the Oscars and a drag show, all at once? If you enjoy our daily Roundups, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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