Tag Archives: Board of Finance

Roundup: Board Of Finance, Dog Days Of Autumn, Peace Vigil …

Posted on October 29, 2023 | 16 comments

Yesterday’s Roundup noted that the 4th agenda item for Wednesday’s Board of Finance meeting is “Long Lots Building Project (Discussion only”).

Chair Lee Caney notes: “On all of our agendas for our regular monthly meetings, we will have an update on LLS.  The updates have been on prior agendas.  We did the same thing with the Coleytown Middle School updates.

“This month there will probably be no discussion, as we just had a meeting. This is not our second meeting on LLS, which will take place at a date to be determined.

“I would never try to sneak in an important meeting, as I welcome and encourage community participation.”

The Board of Finance is just one stop on the road to approval of the Long Lots Elementary School project.

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Today will be much cooler than yesterday — like, 30 degrees lower.

So let’s take one look back at the “last day of summer” (aka October 28):

Longshore: The view from a Boston Whaler (Photo/Nancy Lewis)

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The view is always spectacular from the Unitarian Universalist Congregation sanctuary.

It’s particularly inspiring on a gorgeous fall day list yesterday.

The foliage framed the UU’s quiet and contemplative peace vigil yesterday. Rev. Alan Taylor and others led attendees through a meditative experience. Cellist Gunnar Sahlin provided musical accompaniment.

“All of us are spiritual people, no matter our personal faith traditions or religious affiliations,” the UU says. “We can find solace in community … in peace, in meditation, and in reflection.”

Cellist Gunnar Sahlin. (Photo/Dayle Brownstein)

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The Westport Library celebrated Halloween last night with a Westport and Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored party.

“Bella’s Bartok” played. The stage was decorated. Costumes were worn.

It was, one of the 200 attendees said, “outrageous.”

In, of course, the best way possible.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

There’s a new sheriff in town. Matthew Mandell (left) — director of the Chamber of Commerce — and his wife Cara enjoy last night’s party. 

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More traditional entertainment was provided last night at the Westport Country Playhouse.

There was a deserved standing ovation at the opening performance of “First Lady of Song: Cherise Coaches sings Ella Fitzgerald.”

The show continues Tuesday through Sunday, including evenings and matinees. Special events include Pride Night (November 2) and Open Captions (November 5). Click here for schedules, tickets, and more information.

Cherise Coaches, at last night’s curtain call. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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“Billions” — the high-powered Showtime series about a high-stakes hedge fund managed that morphed into a fascinating exploration of people, power, prestige, and (always) the role money plays in it all — ended its 7-year run this month.

Bobby Axelrod’s “Axe Capital” — based, more than loosely, on both Westport’s Bridgewater Associates and Steve Cohen’s SAC Capital — was originally headquartered in Westport, where the character lived. Midway through the series, it (and he, following a divorce) moved to New York.

It was a thrilling series, with plenty of superb writing and acting (including the great Damian Lewis). Click here to see.

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The Westport Book Sale hosted their first-ever fundraiser this past week.

The event supports the next phase of their employment and job training program for adults with differing abilities.  Scores of Westporters enjoyed a video about the Book Shop, including plans for expanding their employment program.

Click here to watch.

Some of the scenes at the Westport Book Sale fundraiser.

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Sure, it was 80 degrees (or more yesterday).

But it’s still autumn — and peak foliage time.

Claudia Sherwood Servidio snapped this why-we-love-New England “Westport … Naturally” shot yesterday at Vista Terrace. That’s the private road that forms a horseshoe, starting and ending across from the 1st hole at the Longshore golf course.


(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … today is the 94th anniversary of Black Tuesday.

On this date in 1929, the New York Stock Exchange crashed. Investors traded a then-whopping 16 million shares in one. $14 billion of stock value was lost, wiping out thousands of investors.

Some stocks had no buyers at any price. The Dow lost 11.73% of its total value: a staggering 30.57 points.

The Great Bull Market was over. The Great Depression had begun.

(Help “06880” stay solvent. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Library, Local politics, religion, Weather, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Detours, Long Lots Meetings, Carjacking …

Posted on October 19, 2023 | 21 comments

We can’t emphasize it enough: I-95 will be a mess this weekend.

And local roads will be collateral damage.

The I-95 northbound entrance ramp at Exit 17 will remain closed from now through Friday, October 31. Traffic is being detoured to Riverside Avenue, then to the Post Road, Sherwood Island Connector, and onto Exit 18.

In addition, parts of I-95 itself will be closed — as will the northbound Exit 17  entrance and exit ramps, and the southbound exit ramp — along with nearby Saugatuck Avenue, from 8 p.m. this Friday, October 20, through 6 a.m. Monday, October 23.

The closures are necessary for the new I-95 northbound bridge to be placed using Accelerated Bridge Construction techniques. While I-95 northbound is closed, 2 lanes of I-95 northbound traffic will be crossed over on the I-95 southbound bridge. Traffic flow in both directions will be severely impacted all weekend.

For additional information on the project, including detours, click here.

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The Long Lots School Building Committee holds a special meeting tonight (Thursday, October 19, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 201), to “meet briefly to accept the written recommendation for presentation to the First Selectwoman.”

That recommendation of a new building is for “Option C,” voted unanimously by the LLSBC earlier this month.

An hour later tonight (Thursday, October 19, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria), the Board of Education agenda includes a discussion/action item: “Long Lots Building Committee Update.”

It will be presented by LLSBC chair Jay Keenan.

The Long Lots project moves forward next Tuesday (October 24, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), with a special session of the Board of Finance. They’ll meet with the Building Committee and Board of Education, “to discuss only their recommendations.”

The Board of Finance will take comments from the public for 30 minutes.

Long Lots School Building Committee.

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A third arrest has been made, in connection with last month’s carjacking incident at a resident’s Bayberry Lane garage.

Vineys Baez, a 20-year-old Waterbury resident, was arrested yesterday.

He was charged with:

  • Home invasion
  • Burglary, 1st degree
  • Robbery by carjacking
  • Assault, 3rd degree
  • Reckless endangerment
  • Larceny 1st degree
  • Conspiracy to commit larceny, 1st degree
  • Robbery, 1st degree
  • Conspiracy to commit robbery, 1st degree.

Baez is the second person identified through surveillance video. A third person was also arrested.

Baez was held on $500,000 court set bond.

The Westport Police Detective Bureau has completed their investigation into the carjacking.

Two men were caught on surveillance video taking an Aston martin, as the owner was in the vehicle in his Bayberry Lane garage.

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Westport’s annual Children’s Halloween Parade returns to Main Street next Wednesday (October 25). It’s free for all kids (especially those age 8 and younger).

Children and parents will meet at the Main Street/Post Road East corner at 3:30 p.m. The parade heads up Main Street, then goes right on Avery Place and left on Myrtle Avenue to Town Hall and Veterans Green.

Youngsters may trick or treat along Main Street, and in front of Town Hall. Entertainment, refreshments and a small gift will be provided on Veterans Green (across from Town Hall) at 4 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the Westport Parks & Recreation Department, Westport Downtown Association and Westport PAL.

This photo is from 2011. Where is this former Halloween parade-goer today?

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The United Methodist Church invites everyone to a couple of cool — and very different — events.

This Saturday (October 21, 1 to 3 p.m.), “Trunk or Treat” offers a fun, safe Halloween alternative for kids under 12, with snacks and games.

The suggested admission price is simple: 5 non-perishable food items for the Person to Person pantry, per child.

Don’t be spooked by the weather forecast. It’s on, rain or shine. (Heavy rain will move it indoors.)

On Sunday, October 29 (4 p.m.). “Jazz Vespers” is an inspiring service of words and music with a quartet featuring UMC’s new music director, John Hoddinott. A free will offering will be received.

Trunk or treat!

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An Israeli flag appeared on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge last night.

It was apparently not placed there by town officials, or the United Nations Association of Southwestern Connecticut.

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It’s Thursday.

That means the Westport Farmers’ Market is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

Everyone is welcome. Except, of course …

(Photo/Rachel Konstantin)

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The Levitt Pavilion season is not over.

Well, at least not until tonight.

This evening (Thursday, October 19, 7:30 p.m.) the outdoor venue transforms into a giant disco, with the debut presentation of Say She She.

The band’s album “Prism” is under consideration for a Grammy nomination for Best R&B album. Meanwhile, their new album “Silver” is earning raves.

The new turf area in front of the stage provides a perfect dance floor. In a nod to the season, the terrace bar will offer hot chocolate.

Additional free tickets have just been released. They’re available at www.levittpavilion.com,  and 2 hours before showtime at the box office.

Click  below for the band’s special shoutout to Westport:

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For many years, Penny Slinger wanted to visit Friday Kahlo’s home.

In July, the London-born, Los Angeles-based artist’s dream came true.

She recorded her visit in photographs. Now she’s sharing her experience with audiences around the country.

On November 2 (7 p.m.), Slinger brings her “Frida Kahlo and Me” exhibition to MoCA Westport. It’s a side-by-side comparison of both women’s works.

Advance registration is requested: $10 general admission, free for MoCA members. Click here to register, and for more information.

Penny Slinger, and art materials.

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I can’t imagine a more “Westport … Naturally” photo than this one:

(Photo/Jim Hood)

Sure, it’s Koda — one of the beach neighborhood’s most famous dogs.

But it could be anyone’s. Anywhere in town.

Westport loves its pooches!

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And finally … Say She She will be at the Levitt Pavilion tonight (story above).

If you have no idea who they are (and I sure didn’t), click below. Enjoy!

(If you appreciate “06880” saving you from traffic hell this weekend, please consider a donation. Click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: DMA, DPIC, I-95 …

Posted on October 11, 2023 | 4 comments

Tickets are going fast for Saturday’s Westoberfest. We’ll drink to that!

The event (2 to 5 p.m., off Elm Street includes beer tasting from dozens of craft breweries; live music; food by Walrus Alley, Kneads Bakery, Lobstercraft and Little Pub; a children’s area run by the Artists’ Collective of Westport and MoCA; a street magician, bubbles and face painting; pumpkin and apple giveaways; food trucks, and vendors like Savvy + Grace.

Take-home tasting glasses with koozies are courtesy of Lux Bond & Green.

It’s all sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking of downtown: The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee holds a public meeting tomorrow (Thursday, October 12, 8:30 a.m., Town Hall Room 201).

Remote and in-person comments from the public will be received as time is available, or via email: DPIC-comments@westportct.gov.

The agenda includes a review of the parking lots design master plan, pedestrian access, sustainability and maintenance.

Parker Harding Plaza

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If you wonder why the state Department of Transportation is temporarily closing I-95 Exit 17, during the bridge rehabilitation project, check out yesterday’s scene:

(Photo/Jared McGill)

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This Sunday (October 15, 9 a.m.), the Board of Finance and the Long Lots School Building Committee will make a site visit to the elementary school.

BOF chair Lee Caney told “06880” that the tour will give members of his committee “the opportunity to review the Long Lots property, so we will have a better understanding of the terrain when we begin to discuss the funding of the project.”

No funding request has yet been made. But the BOF is one of the bodies that will be involved during the approval process for the $100 million project.

The finance board makes regular site tours before voting on appropriations, Caney added.

Long Lots Elementary School

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Miggs Burroughs and Mark Yurkiw have finished installing their “Signs of Compassion” exhibit at the United Nations.

The work depicts Burroughs’ “Signs of Compassion” — 30 lenticular photos, showing local residents using sign language to recite Emily Dickinson’s poem of the same name — and Yurkiw’s accompanying Braille “prayer wheel” mantra, based on those he saw in Bhutan (including a wheelchair-accessible element).

It takes up the entire 100-foot wall in the UN lobby.

Ever since the United Nations moved into its Manhattan headquarters in 1951, the lobby’s rotating art exhibit has been sponsored by member nations. For what is believed to be the first time, the featured works are offered by individual artists.

This is also the first time that Connecticut artists are featured at the UN.

“Signs of Compassion” is open to the public now through November 20, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Miggs Burroughs’ “Signs of Compassion,” in the UN lobby. Mark Yurkiw’s “prayer wheel” mantra is also displayed nearby.

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October’s Staples High Students of the Month include Joshua Jordan. He’s the senior who helped develop “06880”‘s very popular new app (available at the iPhone and Android stores).

Students of the Month “help make Staples a welcoming place for their peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together, making it the special place that it is.”

Congratulations to Joshua, and fellow senior Juan Nieves; juniors Mia Ferrigno and Evan Wallitt; sophomores Adam Turner and Addison Welling, and freshmen Autumn Kaye and Jaxsyn Liebert.


Staples’ October Students of the Month (from left): Joshua Jordan, Juan Nieves, Mia Ferrigno, Addison Welling, Adam Turner, Evan Wallitt, Autumn Kaye. Missing: Jaxsyn Liebert.

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Another Staples student of note: Andrew Rebello.

The junior was one of 5 national winners of a Working Support of Education (Wise) Financial Literacy Ambassadors Award.

Students must score at least 95 on the Wise certification test. Three rounds of judging follows. Each winner earned $1,000.

Andrew Rebello

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 Middle and high school students looking to serve their community can do walkways.

Westport’s Department of Health & Human Services is registering youngsters looking to help senior citizens with yardwork this fall and winter.

It’s a chance to make connections — and cash. Seniors are encouraged to pay $15 an hour (minimum wage), for outdoor work only.

Interested students should complete an enrollment form and receive parental permission to participate. Questions? Call 203-341-1050 or email humansrv@westportct.gov.

Seniors may request the “We Do Walkway” list through the same phone and email above.

Kids! Help seniors with shoveling (and raking). It’s fun (and profitable).

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Speaking of teenagers: Tomorrow, the Teen Awareness Group welcomes the International Save A Life Tour to Staples High.

The safe-driving program includes driving simulators. Students “get behind the wheel” to see the effects of impaired and distracted driving.

Sounds like a program that would benefit some adult drivers, too.

Distracted driving simulator.

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Longtime Westporters Suzanne Sheridan and Rozanne Gates will be (very deservedly) celebrated by the Triangle Community Center.

Fairfield County’s LGBTQ organization has named the music/photography/ activist couple its “Community” honorees. The award will be presented at TCC’s Visionary Gala October 21 (6:30 p.m., The Water’s Edge at Giovanni’s, Darien).

The event includes a DJ, food and cocktails, and silent and live auctions. Click here for tickets and more information.

Suzanne and Rozanne were instrumental in creating Fairfield County’s first Pride Festival in 2002, and urging the General Assembly to pass civil union legislation in 2005. As soon as the law was passed, they became the first Westport couple to be civilly united. They married legally in 2010.

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For the third year, Rach’s Hope Family Fun Walk will raise funds for food, transportation and lodging for people with loved ones in intensive care units.

Recent recipients include a Massachusetts family with a youngster suffering from a traumatic brain injury, a family whose child was critically injured at the Michigan State shooting, and a Fairfield County family with a child in critical care.

The event is October 22 (3 p.m., Compo Beach Ned Dimes Marina).

Rach’s Hope honors the 2015 Staples High School graduate who died from a rare illness at 21 years old, while at Cornell University.

The “Family Fun Walk” for everyone includes Rachel’s family. Her grandfather Michael Isenberg pledged to walk 1,000 miles yearly for Rach’s Hope. Participants will join him in walking the last mile, to fulfill his pledge.

They’ll also receive Rach’s Hope swag, hear music from Fairfield-based Ellis Island Band, and enjoy gourmet pizza and drinks from Pizza Pie Wagon and Greens Farms Spirit Shop.

To purchase tickets, donate or learn more about Rach’s Hope, click here. You can follow them on  Facebook and Instagram.

 Rach’s Hope, at Ned Dimes Marina.

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Republicans and Democrats can agree on one thing: If their kids are interested in cheer, they should to to the the Staples High School cheer team’s Election Day clinic (November 7, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The clinic — a fundraiser for the squad — sold out last year. The fee ($75 before November 1, $85 after) includes lunch and a t-shirt. Click here to register, and for more information.

Staples High School 2023 cheer team.

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Staples sophomore Leila Stein spotted today’s “Westport … Naturally” image in her back yard.

The bee feasting on a bush will result soon in lilac-infused honey.

(Photo/Leila Stein)

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And finally … in honor of Leila Stein’s lovely lilac photo above:

(Roses are red/Lilacs are blue/Click here to support “06880”/And this blog will love you.)

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Education, Local politics

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Roundup: Israel, Civility, Il Pastaficio …

Posted on October 10, 2023 | 19 comments

A wrong location was posted yesterday for this week’s candidate debates. Here’s the correct info:

Planning & Zoning Commission candidates take the Town Hall auditorium stage tomorrow (Wednesday, October 11, 7 p.m.). They’re followed by a double-header on Thursday, October 12: the Board of Education at 7 p.m., Board of Finance at 8:15.

Questions must be submitted in advance. They will not be taken from the floor. Email: lwvwestportct@yahoo.com.

The debates are sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Westport.

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An overflow crowd of 1,000 — including Governor Ned Lamont and Senator Richard Blumenthal, local officials and many clergy — packed Temple Israel last night, for a “We Stand With Israel” solidarity gathering.

Representatives from nearly 2 dozen area synagogues and other organizations hosted the event, which was organized in just 48 hours by the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County.

Senator Richard Blumenthal (bottom center), at last night’s “We Stand With Israel” gathering.

Religious leaders and others, at Temple Israel. (Photos/Allison Wachstein)

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Westporters Arthur and Lisa Hayes are in Paris this week.

On a boat in the Seine yesterday night, they saw from a distance that the Eiffel Tower was not lit in white, as usual. One half seemed to be dark; the other was very dark blue.

As they got closer, they all understood. The tour boat grew very quiet, as they passed by.

(Photo/Arthur Hayes)

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In this week’s timely “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker discusses a recent study on the growing lack of civility in small towns, and her own public comments on the issue.

The podcasts are sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston. Click below to listen:

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Il Pastaficio is Westport’s hottest new restaurant.

But it’s already drawing notice.

Owner/chef Federico Perandin will appear on Guy Fieri’s legendary “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” Food Network show. The episode airs this Friday (October 13, 9 p.m.).

The Black Duck was featured on the same show in 2009. People still talk about it.

Looks like that will be true too for our new Post Road authentic Italian place. Here’s to Il Pastaficio, and 2037!

Federico Perandin, at Il Pastaficio. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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WestportMoms’ Fall Festival returns for a 3rd autumn — with a great new venue.

The Compo Beach fields (across from the playground) are the site for this year’s event. It’s this Saturday (October 14), from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The day includes

  • Crafty kids’ art projects
  • Hair tinsel
  • Face painting
  • DJ and photo booth
  • Jumbo balloon
  • Bounce house
  • Obstacle course
  • Pumpkin decorating
  • Pottery
  • Food trucks, candy truck, cotton candy
  • Mad science show
  • Bubble snow
  • Basketball games
  • A special character dressed up as Super Mario (based on a town  vote)
  • And more!

New this year: a Halloween costume swap. Bring an old costume; take a new or used one at no cost.

Leftovers will be donated to children in need.

The cost is $20 per family.

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Today is World Mental Health Day.

Westport’s own David Briggs will conduct an Instagram interview tonight (Tuesday, October 10, 7:30 p.m., @westportlibrary) with Rhone co-founder and CEO Nate Checketts. They’ll talk about how the men’s wellness brand — which opened on Main Street this summer — is committed to men’s mental health issues.

From left: ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky and Nate Checketts at Rhone’s Westport store.

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Longtime Westporter Marty Yellen offered a presentation on aging — and a cancer treatment update — at yesterday’s Y’s Women meeting.

Yellen was an engineer on the Hubble Space Telescope. He then earned a doctorate in medical biology engineering. He works now with Yale scientists, biologists and engineers on diseases that come with aging, researching techniques and treatments to alleviate them.

Yellen warned the large audience to stay away from beef (particularly grilling), processed meats that can stand at room temperature like salami, and animal fats. 

He suggested instead lamb, chicken, fish, plenty of fiber and vegetables, nuts, yogurt, beans — and most importantly, virgin olive oil rather than butter. 

Daily exercise daily — for example, 30 minutes of walking — is especially important. 

“You are your own doctor,” Yellen said. “Take care of your body, eat right, exercise daily — and don’t smoke!”

Marty Yellin at yesterday’s Y’s Women meeting.

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Speaking of health: The 29th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Fairfield County event is always a celebration of courage and hope

Over 5,000 participants will gather this Sunday (October 15, 9 a.m. to noon), at Sherwood Island State Park.

Over 3 decades, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer’s 3- to 5-mile walks have  provided a supportive community for survivors, caregivers and families. The event funds breast cancer research, programs and services.

For more details, click here.

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From Azerbaijan to Westport: Amina Figarova has moved from her upbringing behind the Iron Curtain to become a celebrated jazz pianist and composer.

On Thursday (October 12, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399) she makes her “Jazz at the Post” debut. Rudy Royston, Boots Maleson, Bart Platteau and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall join her for two shows: 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Dinner starts at 7.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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MoCA Westport is stepping into dance.

Their first-ever dance performance this Saturday (October 14, 7 p.m.) features the East Coast Contemporary Ballet Company, in collaboration with Alturas Duo and Yale University’s  Calllisto Quartet.

“Strings and Asymmetry” offers a fusion of styles, instruments and artistic
expressions.

Tickets include admission to the current exhibit. For details and tickets, click here or call (203) 222-7070.

Dance and more at MoCA.

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Fred Cantor and his wife Debbie Silberstein spotted these on Riverside Avenue, near the medical buildings.

(Photo/Fred Cantor)

They’re perfect for “Westport … Naturally.” But Fred and Debbie don’t know what kind of berries they are.

“06880” readers: Chime in! Click “Comments” below.

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And finally … on this day in 1845, the Naval School opened with 50 students in Annapolis, Maryland.

Today it’s known as the United States Naval Academy. Its enrollment is about 4,450.

(Another Roundup filled with political, entertainment, restaurant and health news — and another reminder that “06880” relies entirely on reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Local business, religion, Restaurants

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Roundup: Candidates’ Debate, Carjack And Gun Arrests, Longshore Meeting …

Posted on October 7, 2023 | 8 comments

Who you gonna believe: the comments section of “06880,” or your own ears?

With local elections looming, Westport’s League of Women Voters has scheduled 3 important debates. All take place in the Town Hall auditorium.

Planning & Zoning Commission candidates take the stage October 11 (7 p.m.). They’re followed by a double-header October 12: the Board of Education at 7 p.m., Board of Finance at 8:15.

This is your chance to hear — and assess — the men and women vying to lead our town. Come to Town Hall; then make an informed decision.

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Yesterday, with the help of the Waterbury Police Department, Westport detectives took 22-year-old Garrett Gibbs of Waterbury into custody for his involvement in the September 17th carjacking incident.

The arrest followed an intense investigation. Gibbs was charged with the following crimes:

  • Home Invasion
  • Burglary 1st degree
  • Robbery by carjacking
  • Assault 3rd degree
  • Larceny 1st degree
  • Conspiracy to commit larceny 1st degree
  • Robbery 1st degree

he is being held at the Westport Police Department on a $500,000.00 bond. He will appear in Stamford Superior Court on October 16.

Westport Police detectives are still working this case, and anticipate additional arrests.

Yesterday was a busy one for the WPD. They also arrested a 17-year-old juvenile from Stratford for an incident on July 11, when shots fired in Saugatuck. 

The youth is currently incarcerated at Manson Youth Institute, following a previous arrest by another agency. The arrest came after a lengthy investigation by the Detective Bureau, involving multiple interviews and search warrants. 

The teen was charged with:

  • Unlawful discharge of a firearm
  • Conspiracy to commit unlawful discharge of a firearm
  • Reckless endangerment 1st degree
  • Conspiracy to commit reckless endangerment 1s degree
  • Breach of peace
  • Conspiracy to commit breach of peace.

He will  appear in Bridgeport Juvenile Court on October 13. Police anticipate additional arrests.

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A twice-postponed Parks & Recreation Commission meeting has been rescheduled to October 18 (Town Hall Room 201, 7:30 p.m.). The agenda includes discussion of the Longshore Capital Improvement Plan.

The first meeting was interrupted due to a medical emergency. The second — this past Thursday — was planned as a virtual session. It never began, due to technical issues.

Among the concerns of attendees: where on the property to place the planned pickleball courts.

Changes will be coming soon to Longshore.

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Gaetano’s Deli is a favorite with Staples students.

So it’s a natural location for the high school radio station’s live broadcasts today.

Award-winning WWPT will set up a tent and remote facility outside the Post Road East spot. Everyone is welcome to stop by, and see these great young radio broadcasters in action.

And if you can’t be there, listen in: 90.3 FM, or online.

Check out the schedule below:

(Graphic by Henry Manning)

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It’s tough: How can parents talk honestly with their children about drug use, without sounding preachy, unrealistic or clueless?

All this month, the Westport Prevention Coalition is offering free streaming access to a 52-minute documentary, “Don’t Wait.”e.

Substances have changed over the years. Cannabis concentrates can deliver 96% pure THC with no CBD or plant matter. Delivery mechanisms like vapes and pouches are relatively new too.

The film updates parents’ knowledge, and helps them answer tough questions from their kids. Click here to stream the video.

As follow-up for parents who want more information, WPC plans 2 Zoom sessions for parents (October 24 and 26). Click here to register.

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PinkLand — the Pink Aid online auction, raising funds to help people with breast cancer — opens Monday. It runs through Thursday.

Over 300 items are available for online bidding. They include:

  • Brendan Murphy painting (value: $21,000)
  • Yankees Legends seats for 2024 ($3,000)
  • 2 tickets to “Watch What Happens Live” with Andy Cohen (TBD)
  • 4 VIP wristbands for Governor’s Ball Music Festival 2024 ($3,200)
  • 3 night Oceanview King stay at Mauna Lani, including buffet breakfast ($5,000)
  • Clase Azul Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Reposado tequila ($4,999)
  • Keith Urban Guitar ($500)
  • Courtside Knicks tickets ($2,500)
  • 4 tickets and field passes to Mets-Giants ($150)
  • Sholeh Janati painting ($5,800)

Tickets are still available for the October 12th luncheon at Mitchells of Westport (11 a.m.). Click here for more information — and to see all auction items, and bid.

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Westport celebrates UN Day with a special Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Memorial Lecture.

Kuwait Ambassador to the UN Tareq Albanai will speak on “Identifying Opportunities for Creative Diplomacy to Solve Global Challenges: A View from the Arabian Gulf” (October 24, 7 p.m., Westport Library). He’ll take audience questions afterward.

Ambassador Albanai has long experience dealing with issues of disarmament. A graduate of George Washington University, he is fluent in Arabic, English and Spanish.

Click here to register for in-person participation or streaming. The event is co-sponsored by the Library, and the United Nations Association of Southwestern Connecticut.

Kuwait Ambassador to the United Nations Tareq Albanai.

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Rachel Rose is a 2014 Staples High School graduate. She now lives in Fairfield.

The former Orphenian, who studied privately with Cynthia Gibb, is now a professional singer. She calls her style achel calls her style “Jewish soul, contemporary soul and R&B.”

She entered a Jimmy Fallon “Battle of the Instant Songwriters” contest a year ago. On Wednesday, a representative called to see if she wanted to appear on the show.

On Thursday, there she was: on national TV. She and a fellow musician were given an hour to write a song, then perform it.

The title she was provided: “I Think This Airbnb is Haunted.”

How did she do? Click below!

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Alert “06880” reader Rita Corridon was checking out the New York Times’ “The Morning” feature today.

One piece began:

My hometown has a gardening store so lavish, so over-the-top curated with weather-stained terra-cotta planters the size of vintners’ casks, crumbling concrete birdbaths rescued from Eden and a jungle’s worth of fronds and boughs and leaves that it is a destination.

Out-of-towners come to gaze at its tableaux of mosses, hand-forged shears and fairy lights, to dine on seasonal produce at its in-house café. I think there might be an actual waterfall back by the table linens.

I love going to this store, wandering its aisles and imagining how different my life would be if I could inhabit its forever-green promise, like Keats gazing on the Grecian urn.

“That must be Terrain!” Rita thought.

She looked up the author, Melissa Kirsch.

Sure enough, the “hometown” she talks about is Westport.

Click here for the full piece.

“Lavish, over-the top” Terrain.

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Another teardown: Tom Lowrie reports: “A week ago, the house at 148 Old Road was demolished.

148 Old Road then … (Photo/courtesy of Google Maps)

“The site was covered with large trees and brush. The following week all but the best trees were cut down. A mountain of wood chips, logs and house materials were carted away.

“Then the CAT machines went to work, digging out stumps and and piling all the topsoil for future leveling of the site.”

Just another day in the world of Westport real estate.

… and now.

(Photos/Tom Lowrie)

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Westporter Howard Matson — a past international president of the Circumnavigators Club — hosted a dinner last nigh at New York’s Union League Club honoring Tony and Maureen Wheeler, writers and publishers of the Lonely Planet guidebook empire. The couple received the club’s highest recognition: the Order of Magellan.

Matson, who now serves on the club’s Board of Governors, has hosted in past years Jacques Cousteau, Walter Cronkite and Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.

Howard Matson (center) with Maureen and Tony Wheeler.

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“Westport … Naturally” features our town’s natural wonders. Horseshoe crabs — which have been around for 440 million years — certainly qualify.

But these guys didn’t climb on the (man-made) Burying Hill Beach pier by themselves.

They needed help from humans. Our species is about 300,000 years old.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … speaking of the candidates’ debates next week (story above):

(“06880” is your place for healthy debate — and local journalism. If you appreciate our work, please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here — thank you!)

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Posted in Local politics, Longshore, Real estate, Staples HS, Teenagers

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[OPINION] Save Westport Now Says: Save Gardens Now!

Posted on August 9, 2023 | 48 comments

Yesterday, Save Westport Now — which describes itself as a 43-year-old grassroots organization dedicated to protecting residential neighborhoods, preserving Westport’s small-town New England appeal, ensuring smart growth, preventing over-commercialization, and preserving open space — e-mailed every member of the Board of Selectwomen, Board of Education, Long Lots School Building Committee, Board of Finance and Representative Town Meeting.

The subject: the possible relocation of the Westport Community Gardens, as part of the Long Lots renovation or rebuilding plan. Save Westport Now says:

As the Town mulls its options regarding the Westport Community Gardens and Long Lots Preserve, we offer the following observations:

First, we believe that the Long Lots School Building Committee, appointed by First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, has inadvertently overstepped its authority in thinking that they have the unfettered right to determine the future of this cherished municipal asset.

We have reviewed the RTM minutes concerning the acquisition of this property and note that, although 2.2 acres were earmarked for additional school parking, the remaining 4.5 acres were acquired for other municipal purposes.

The Westport Community Gardens and Long Lots Preserve are just south of parking for Long Lots Elementary School (green), which is just south of the current building (yellow).

Indeed, in 2001 when the RTM was debating the acquisition, then-School Superintendent Elliot Landon assured the RTM that they would “work cooperatively and collaboratively” with the town to develop the parking in such a way that “it enhanced municipal uses as well.”

Thus, while it is true that playing fields (as well as affordable housing) were mentioned during the debate, the future use of that extra acreage was specifically left open.

Since then, of course, the property has been designated as a community garden and preserve and, for the last 20 or so years, the property has been under the supervision of Parks & Rec — 2 indisputable facts that buttress the argument that a school building committee does not have the unilateral authority to deal with this property.

Second, we note that removing these Gardens and the Preserve in favor of other uses runs counter to the Town’s Net Zero promise, as well as its most recent Plan of Conservation and Development, which explicitly calls for the preservation and enhancement of open space.

As the Plan recognizes: “Open space helps protect natural resources; provide flood storage, wildlife habitat, and tree canopy; enhance overall community appearance; and enhance the quality of life of residents and visitors.”

In fact, the town has long been concerned with this issue since Westport has
very little open space, especially compared to other towns in Fairfield County. If anything, we need to be creating more gardens, preserves, and open space — not less.

And third, we believe that equity and fairness dictate preservation of the Gardens and Preserve in their current locations.

Aerial view of the Westport Community Gardens, with 100-plus plots. The Long Lots Preserve is located on its perimeter.

While adding additional playing fields to our town’s inventory may be
desirable, the town currently has approximately 20 playing fields that can conceivably be made available during the 18- or 24-month construction period contemplated for the new school facility.

Alternatively, other temporary sites can be identified and used for sports during the construction period.

Once construction is complete, the town could then build new field(s) on the site of old building. There is, however, only one town garden, and it simply cannot be moved or replicated within that time frame — if at all.

Ditto for the Preserve.

In sum, the long-term pain for gardeners and the negative environmental ramifications for residents if the Gardens and Preserve are forced to vacate far outweigh the temporary sacrifice that sports teams may suffer if the Gardens and
Preserve are allowed to remain in place.

Finally, it is important to note that when the Long Lots School Building Committee was first proposed by the First Selectwoman, we and others voiced concern that the list of appointees did not include someone from Sustainable Westport.

Indeed, a number of RTM members objected to the formation of the Committee specifically on those grounds. They were adamant that SW needed to have a seat at the table — that SW needed to be involved at all stages of the project.

But the administration assured the RTM that the Committee had the necessary expertise to handle the project.

Recent events, however, have validated those concerns. The fact is that the Gardens and Preserve play a critical role in helping to sequester carbon and protect our pollinators.

Relaxing in the Westport Community Gardens.

Based on what we believe are a set of faulty assumptions and priorities, we are concerned that the Committee may make well-intended but misguided recommendations that result in the squandering of these important and critical assets.

And the idea that this will be “only” a temporary measure strikes us as short-sighted and failing to properly understand the value of what has been created here.

It took 20 years and almost 10,000 hours of volunteer labor to get the Gardens and Preserve to this point. They cannot be rebuilt overnight or easily replicated.

Please listen to the more than 1,800 people and organizations who have already signed petitions and letters, and act now to make the preservation of the Gardens and Preserve our highest priority when planning for the creation of what is sure to be a superb building where Westport’s children can continue to grow and learn.

Respectfully,
Ian Warburg
Co-chair, Save Westport Now

48 Comments

Posted in Education, Environment, Local politics

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Roundup: Rainbows, Community Gardens, Septic Trucks …

Posted on July 28, 2023 | 7 comments

Yesterday’s brief but heavy rain inspired several “06880” photographers.

Here’s what they saw:

Clouds roll in over Compo’s South Beach (Photo/Eileen Lavigne Flug)

Rain over  Sherwood Mill Pond … (Photo/Matt Murray)

… and Longshore. (Photo/Tanya Sprague LaClair)

Rainbow at the YMCA … (Photo/Hana Jones)

… and at Wakeman Field. (Photo/Luca Caniato)

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Last night’s rain also forced the cancellation of the Levitt Pavilion’s headline act, Theo Kandell. It’s been rescheduled for Saturday, August 5.

But to show his appreciation for everyone who stayed despite the downpour, he serenaded them with 3 acoustic songs on the upper terrace.

The opening act — Staples High School graduate Michael Cantor and his band — was delayed. But they eventually played, to great applause.

Theo Kandell’s “private” set on the Levitt terrace. (Photo and hat tip/ Matthew Mandell)

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The Westport Community Gardens near Long Lots Elementary School is 20 years old.

The town’s arts heritage stretches back 100 years.

On Saturday, August 5 (all day: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.), the Gardens celebrate that arts legacy.

“Art in the Garden” is a day of enjoying the natural beauty of the Gardens — and a chance for everyone to make art, or take photos, there.

The event is a collaboration with the Artists Collective of Westport.

Children are welcome. For more information on the Westport Community Gardens, click here.

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Every year the Westport Police Department, in conjunction with the Public Works Department and Aspetuck Health District, conducts a safety inspection of garbage and septic vehicles that do business in town.

This week, it took place at the Imperial Avenue parking lot. Approximately 70 trucks passed the inspection, allowing them to use town facilities.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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A few hours ago — at 2 a.m., to be exact — Westporter John Sharian began running the Pemi Loop in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

His goal is to raise awareness of —  and donations for — Frontline Healing Foundation. The non-profit supports the unmet addiction and PTSD needs of servicemembers.

The 30-mile loop includes 10,000 feet of vertical elevation.

This is not part of a large event. It’s Sharian’s solo desire to highlight the  foundation’s work, and the many people they heal.

His goal is $10,000. Click here now — as he’s in the mountains — to help.

PS: This is not Sharian’s first rodeo (or run). Last year he completed the Presidential Peaks solo.

John Sharian

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Businessman/private equity manager/former Milwaukee Bucks co-owner Marc Lasry is a longtime Beachside Avenue resident.

He did not get to be a billionaire by passing up investment opportunties.

In 2021 he paid $17.5 million for a 20-acre property — with a century-old home, boathouse, pool and pool house, tennis court and more, just around the corner in Fairfield. Like his Westport property, it’s right on the water.

The property had been abandoned. Taxes were nearly $600,000 a year. (“Could you imagine?” Lasry said.)

So — to preserve its history, and keep it from condominium-minded developers — he subdivided it into 7 plots. He built a private road, and remodeled the main house. It’s 18,000 square feet, with a 6-car garage.

It just sold for $9.375 million, to a trust related to actor Jensen Ackles (“Supernatural”).

The 1923 Tudor boathouse, meanwhile, sold for $8 million.

Lasry’s daughter Emma spent $5 million for a vacant parcel. Four more parcels remain, listed at $4.5 million to $7.5 million.

That info, and more — including the history of the previously abandoned multi-million-dollar house, and photos of the renovation — are part of a Wall Street Journal story. Click here to read it. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)

Marc Lasry’s 20-acre Fairfield property, with its main house (left-center) and boathouse. (Photo/Borgatta for Wall Street Journal)

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Bridgeport’s Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater has become one of the most popular music venues in the state.

Just this year it’s hosted the Beach Boys, Temptations, Willie Nelson, James Taylor, the Four Tops, Rod Stewart, Jackson Browne, Santana and more.

On August 3 (7 p.m., Westport Library), Howard Saffan — owner, developer and president — offers an insider’s look at the entertainment facility.

He’ll describe how he converted a traditional stadium into a noted amphitheater, and a performance home to superstars.

Wine and cheese will be served. The event is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

An audience Q-and-A will follow Saffan’s presentation. Here’s my question: “Is it difficult to market a performance space in Bridgeport that has ‘Hartford’ in its name?”

The Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater (in Bridgeport).

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After interviewing 9 candidates, the Democratic Town Committee has recommended Jeff Hammer to complete the Board of Finance position being vacated by Nancie Dupier. The long-time member is moving out of town.

Hammer is also recommended to run with Danielle Dobin this fall, for the BOF.

Hammer has spent 35 years in finance He has spent the past 4 1/2 years on Westport’s Pension Investment Committee.

The full DTC will vote on the recommendation next Monday (7:30 p.m., Zoom; click here for the link). Registered Democrats may nominate other candidates from the floor.

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Jerry Kuyper spotted — and photographed — today’s “06880” subject in the back yard of his Rayfield Road home.

Recent rains have “created a good environment for growth,” he notes.

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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Judge Kevin O’Grady, formerly of Westport and Weston, died peacefully at the Jewish Senior Services facility in Bridgeport, after a long illness. Surrounded by his family, he was 76.

Kevin grew up in Manhattan and Westport, including summers at Old Mill Beach. He graduated from Fairfield Prep as a Merit Scholarship finalist. After graduating from Southampton College he spent 4 years traveling the world in the Merchant Marines. He then continued his education, graduating cum laude from Boston University School of Law.

He shared an office with Tony Slez in Westport, where he practiced for many years. In 1999 Kevin was elected probate judge for Westport and Weston. He served for most of 4 terms, until his retirement in 2013.

His family said he was “treasured for his humor, warmth and answers on all questions about plants, cars, home improvement and the law.’

Kevin is survived by his son Sean (Heather) and their children Molly and Dylan O’Grady of Northford, Connecticut; son TJ (Jenny) and their children Max and Isaac of Lutherville, Maryland; brothers Terence (Jenny) of Sandy Hook, and Martin (Julie) of Westport; nephews Terence O’Grady (Nancy) of Sandy Hook, John O’Grady (Christine) of Sandy Hook; Robert O’Grady (Natalia) of Vero Beach, Florida; niece Katherine Stromsky (Joseph) of Sandy Hook; niece Tara O’Grady of Jensen Beach, Florida; nephew Liam O’Grady of Westport; first wife Maureen; ex-wife Helen Fischer; stepdaughters Alison (Tobin), Nina (Liz) and Lauren (Katie) Lebwohl; grandchildren Levi, Josie, Theo and George of Madison, Wisconsin. as well as many great and great great nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his psister-in-law Jennifer (Skemp) O’Grady of Sandy Hook; cousin Mary Agatha (O’Grady) and her husband Patrick Savage of Toronto; and Father Martin O’Grady of Kinvara, Ireland.

Kevin will be buried along with other family at Assumption Cemetery in Westport. Friends and family may call at the Harding Funeral Home August 3 (4 to 8 p.m.) A funeral <ass will be held at Assumption Church on August 4 (10 a.m.), with a graveside service at 11:15 a.m. The family requests that donations in his memory be made to the Michael J Fox Foundation.

Judge Kevin O’Grady

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And finally … in honor of Jerry Kuyper’s photo (above):

(Feed your head! And feed “06880”! Please click here to contribute. Thank you.)

.

7 Comments

Posted in Arts, Beach, Obituaries, Police, Real estate, Weather

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[OPINION] Transit Director: Restore Funding For Wheels2U

Posted on April 15, 2023 | 15 comments

It happens every year: the Westport Transit District pleads for funds.

Peter Gold has 2 roles: He’s the WTD director, and an elected Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member from District 5. He writes:

Westport is in danger of losing the Wheels2U shuttle yet again.

In what has become an annual rite of spring, the Board of Finance voted at its March meeting to eliminate all funding for Wheels2U, the Westport Transit District’s door-to-train station on-demand commuter shuttle.

This will effectively shut down the service as of June 30, 2023. (The door to door service for the elderly and persons with disabilities will not be affected.)

Wheels2U.

We need the public’s help to keep the shuttle alive.

The Transit Committee and RTM Finance Committee meet on April 17 and April 26 respectively. They will make recommendations to the full RTM regarding the budget for Wheels2U.

The full RTM meets May 1 to vote on restoring funding to keep the shuttle running for another year.

Please send an email to the RTM (RTM-DL@Westportct.gov) between now and the end of April urging them to restore the budget, and keep the shuttle alive. All emails sent to this address will also go to members of the RTM Transit and Finance Committees.

Wheels2U provided over 21,100 rides to and from Westport’s 2 train stations to more than 1,170 people since the start of the current fiscal year on July 1, 2022. There were over 2,780 rides to and from Westport’s stations in March alone.

Wheels2U supports Westport residents and businesses. It aids economic development by providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way for Westport commuters, reverse commuters and others to link their homes, their employers and downtown to the train stations. By sharing your stories of how useful the service has been to you, we can help to save the shuttle service.

It takes 70% of the RTM members present and voting at a meeting to override the Board of Finance and restore the funding for Wheels2U. Every bit of support matters.

Information about Wheels2U, its cost, the benefits it currently provides to riders and the town as a whole, and what it could become if it’s allowed to continue and grow can be found by clicking this link.

15 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Transportation

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Unsung Heroes #277

Posted on March 1, 2023 | Comments Off on Unsung Heroes #277

It’s March!

And while to you that may mean college basketball Madness, a few last ski runs or putting off doing taxes, for a few dozen Westporters it means something else.

It’s budget season.

Departments, offices, boards, commissions, committees and agencies big (Education, Public Works, Police, Fire, Parks & Rec) and small (Transit District, Tree Board) have submitted requests for the next fiscal year.

They’ve spent months preparing numbers. Now they must justify them.

Over the next several weeks, members of the Board of Finance will analyze each budget thoroughly. They go line by line, dollar by dollar. They ask questions, large and small. They’re respectful, but firm.

One look at the 2021 town budget …

Sometimes they vote to accept a budget as submitted. Sometimes they cut. They have never — as far as I know — said to any department head, “Hey, you deserve more!”

Then the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) wades in. They’ve got their own questions, and they’re not shy about asking them.

It’s tough, tedious, mind-numbing work. But someone has to do it. I’m glad it’s not me.

… and another. 

I’m not sure anyone has ever thanked our Board of Finance and RTM for the job they do every spring.

It’s part of their job, sure. They knew it was coming, when they ran for office.

But today, “06880” thanks those few dozen men and women for spending all those hours poring over spreadsheets, and all those evenings holding meetings and weighing options.

And the next time you look at your tax bill — especially as you compare it to friends and relatives elsewhere in the tri-state area — you should thank them too.

Comments Off on Unsung Heroes #277

Posted in Economy, Local politics

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Brian Stern On Spending: “Don’t Tap The Brakes. But Be Cautious.”

Posted on May 23, 2022 | 7 comments

The good news: Westport is in excellent financial shape.

The bad news: We’ve got some big capital expenses coming up. At least one new elementary school; Longshore renovation; a new firehouse or two — those are some big-ticket items.

The bottom-line news: It’s time to think about them.

Brian Stern

At least one Westporter is. Brian Stern has served on the Board of Finance since 2009, and is a former chair. He earned a Harvard MBA and spent 35 years with Xerox, beginning as a finance director and progressing to president of 4 divisions. After retiring in 2007 he invested in and managed 2 high-tech start-up companies.

The other day, we chatted about town finances.

Thanks to continued good governance and a strong tax  base, he said, our financials are “very strong. Most towns would love to have the grand list increases we’ve had.” They’re consistently 1 to 2.5%; next year’s is 2.2%.

The tax levy is $190 million on property. That’s one positive effect of teardowns, Stern says: Demolishing a house that’s $800,000 on the grand list, and replacing it with a $6 million one, enables us to keep the same mill rate year after year.

New apartment buildings on the Post Road help. So will converting the former Save the Children non-profit on Wilton Road to high-priced condos.

“Our reserves have never been higher,” Stern notes. “We can withstand any imaginable fiscal crisis.” And our AAA bond rating won’t change.

“All signs are good,” he reiterates. “We are, and will be, a fundamentally attractive town.”

The Bankside Condos on Wilton Road — seen here in an artist’s rendering — will add to Westport’s grand list.

But Stern repeats the warning bells he sounded at the May 11 Board of Finance meeting.

The town’s 5-year capital plan includes many important and “justifiable, well thought out” projects. Yet taken together, he says, they’ll run up a “massive bill, unlike anything we’ve seen before.”

Through no one’s fault, he foresees “dramatically increased spending” for the town and Board of Education budgets. Together with national trends like increasing interest rates — from below 2%, to 4% — and rising inflation, the combination will be costly.

Stern says that the town’s current debt is $105 million. Bond costs have been in the @% range; the most recent came in at 3.4%.

Our current debt service of $11.5 million a year is about 5.2% of the total operating budget. That works out to about $3,870 per Westport man, woman and child.

Looking ahead to projects like a new Long Lots Elementary School ($50 million to  $70 million), and possibly a new Coleytown El; other school projects like a roof at Staples high; a $40 million firehouse; $20 million for much-needed Longshore improvements; bridges; the $12 million downtown master plan — and factoring in state grants of about 11% — Stern sees our total debt increasing from $105 million to $350-$375 million, over 10 years.

Long Lots Elementary School is nearly 70 years old. It is need of replacement or renovation. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

Debt service will increase proportionately, from $11.5 million to $40 million. Over a decade or so, per capita debt will rise from $3,870 to $13,500.

“The decision to build is much easier than the decision to finance,” he notes. “Whatever we decide will be with us for 25 years.”

And what happens if we get a “surprise,” as we did with the sudden need to rebuild Coleytown Middle School a few years ago? “Our risk profile would change,” Stern acknowledges.

It would change too if certain projects that are not currently in the capital plan are added in. There are currently “zero dollars,” he says, for things like Baron’s South and affordable housing.

This is not the first time Westport has faced several big projects at once, however. Stern points to the late 1990s and early 2000s, when construction of the new Staples High and Bedford Middle School, plus the conversion Saugatuck El, among others — rocketed our debt from $57 million to $175 million.

The new Staples High School was completed in 2005. It is a modern building that works well in the 21st century.

People like Steve Halstead and Dan Kail — town leaders who lived through those projects, and their financing — are still around, Stern says. “We should talk to them, and ask about their experiences. Would they have done anything differently? There’s not much that’s free today, but their advice would be.”

Stern notes too, “When we build a school, we get something in return. There was a benefit from those new buildings. These are important investments in our community.”

Of course, they are investments by one generation that subsidize another. Of course too, that’s always the case.

“Someone paid for us,” Stern says. “We have to pay it forward.”

Though some of the projects may slip to a later date, Stern does not view the capital plan as a wish list. “We need these,” he says. Still, he asks, are they all needed at the funding level requested? For example, he wonders, can Long Lots be renovated for less than it would cost to construct an entirely new school? Perhaps we can do with a $25 million firehouse, rather than one costing $40 million.

He urges a “creative” look at spending. Greenwich, for example, pays down its debt faster than the traditional 25 years. Of course, that increases taxes in the short term.

Perhaps the town could consider selling some assets, Stern says. He points to a portion of Longshore near the river that is now “brambles, weeds and a parking lot.” It could fetch $5-$10 million, he thinks.

Riverfront property at Longshore is now used as a parking lot. In the early days of COVID, teenagers socialized there in a socially distant way. (Photo/Kimberly Paris)

Stern is not providing any answers. He just wants Westporters to “understand consequences, and make decisions with spending and financing in mind.”

He urges town officials to “keep their heads up and their eyes open — not stick them in the sand.”

Despite the warning signs, he says, “we’ve been through this before. We have a great high school and middle schools, and amenities. This is why I live here.

“We’ve decided, as a community, that we will pay for these things. People don’t always like to talk about the price of things.

“I’m not telling them to tap the brakes. But I am saying: Be cautious.’

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Posted in Economy, Education, Local politics, Longshore

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