Westport Police have arrested a 29-year-old Southbury man, in connection with a November threat against Coleytown Elementary School.
On November 3, at 7:34 a.m., the Fairfield County Regional Dispatch Center received a text to 911, saying, “I’ll blow up Coleytown Elementary School.”
The school day was delayed 2 hours. Buses were rerouted to Coleytown Middle School, and people in the building were evacuated to CMS. Everyone in the middle school was advised to shelter in place.
Westport, Fairfield and Norwalk Police Department explosive detection canine units, along with the Stamford Police Department’s Bomb Squad, conducted a systematic search of the premises.
An extensive search yielded no explosives.
Coleytown Elementary School (foreground); Coleytown Middle School (rear). (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)
The cell phone from where the message originated was traced. It was found on the man, who was located by officers a short distance from the school while the search was ongoing.
He initially claimed that his phone had been hacked. Further investigation, including a forensic examination of the device, interviews with the suspect and coordination with other agencies investigating similar incidents, tied the allegation to the man.
An arrest warrant was sought and granted. He was charged with threatening, falsely reporting an incident, misuse of 911, computer crime in furtherance of terroristic purposes, and breach of peace.
He was unable to post $100,000 bond, and was arraigned today.
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.
Special musical guests will be announced soon. Bowie says, “feel the rhythm, share the love, and stand with us in solidarity as we help bring hope back to the heart of Jamaica.”
Jamaica is not the only place with desperate need.
Mark Yurkiw — who has spent the past 3 years raising funds and providing material help to Ukraine, where he has strong roots.
Mark says, “each night hundreds of Russian drones descend, damaging homes, schools and hospitals and across the country. All the wiring in these buildings needs to be reconnected and made safe.
“They are in desperate need of power cords, extension cords, electrical wires, etc.
“I hope ‘06880’ readers who have wires, of any sort or size or length, can drop them at my garage doors (190 Cross Highway).
“They don’t need to work, and they don’t need connectors at the end. (Ukraine uses different connectors.)
“Any tools used to work with electricity are extremely helpful too: pliers, wire cutters, testers, electrical tape, etc. Donations for shipping are also welcome. Slava Ukraini!”
Questions? Email mark.think3d@gmail.com.
Mark Yurkiw, at his garage with Ukrainian art he created.
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There is need in Westport too.
The (thunderous and well-deserved) applause had scarcely died down after Staples Players’ (sensational) opening night performance of “Les Misérables,” when parent volunteers loaded up the first delivery of non-perishable food and personal hygiene items to Homes with Hope.
Audiences are filling bags for the Westport’s homeless shelter and food pantry. Stew Leonard’s helped, donating 1,000 reusable shopping bags for HwH.
Staples Players’ audience donations, headed to Homes with Hope. (Photo/Kerry Long)
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Speaking of Staples: The field hockey’s team quest to three-peat as state champions came to a tough end yesterday.
Longtime archrival Darien eked out a 1-0 victory, in the state class “L” (large schools) final at Wethersfield High School. It was the Wreckers’ only shutout of the year.
The Blue Wave also barely beat Staples in the FCIAC (league) championship. That game was even closer: 2-1 on penalty strokes, after the teams were tied through 2 overtimes.
In other Wrecker sports news, the boys soccer team meets their own rival, Greenwich, in the “LL” (extra large schools) championship today (Sunday).
Speaking still of Staples: What began years ago as a simple request to help raise funds to fight breast cancer has grown into a very important annual “Get Your Pink On” campaign.
Recently, the school’s field hockey team, Gridiron Club, Pyramid Club, Boys Soccer Foundation, Pink Aid Club, and their fans raised funds for the cause.
The initiative began with Tammy Zelkowitz. The mother of a Staples football player was inspired by national sports teams promoting breast cancer awareness each October. If they could do it, she thought, so could Staples.
Pink Aid, which began as a local nonprofit, has since grown into a national organization providing emergency financial assistance and emotional support to underserved and underinsured women battling breast cancer.
Since launching the campaign in 2011, Staples has donated $95,000 to Pink Aid. Congratulations to all who have shown the power of compassion, collaboration and student action.
Staples’ Pyramid Club, Gridiron Club and captains present a $3,112 check to Pink Aid.
The news that Bloodroot — the women’s collective vegetarian restaurant/ feminist community center, co-founded by Westporter Selma Miriam — is closing after 48 years in Black Rock has saddened its many devoted fans.
They can gather, reminisce — and learn a lot — on December 2 (6 p.m.). MoCA\CT will screen “A Culinary Uprising: The Story of Bloodroot.” The 97- minute documentary was released earlier this year.
The showing will be followed by a Q&A with Bloodroot co-founder Noel Furie, and documentary director Annie Laurie Medonis.
The film is presented in conjunction with the current exhibition, “Enough Already: Women Artists from the Sara M. and Michelle Vance Waddell Collection.”
In addition, there’s a book signing of Emily Larned’s “40 Years of Bloodroot.” It includes personal-political essays by Miriam and Furie, and photographs.
The event is part of MoCA’s continuing exploration of feminist voices in art, culture and community through Enough Already. Tickets are $10; $8 for seniors and students; free for members. Click here to register, and for more information.
The shop featuring “premium hard and soft serve ice cream, plant-based and fat-free options, smoothies, cakes and more” replaced Silver Ribbon, in the strip mall with Fortuna’s and Greens Farms Spirit Shop, in 2022.
The website still lists Westport, along with Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan, Riverside, Stamford and Wilton.
Gofer was a few hundred yards from another ice cream outlet, here much longer. They’ve severed ties with Carvel, but continue to do business with a generic “Soft Serve” sign.
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Work is proceeding on the Sherwood Mill Pond tidal gates renovation project.
There’s plenty of equipment in and around the area.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
The staging area — for those who wonder what’s going on there — is the Compo Beach Soundview Avenue parking lot.
Over 50 volunteers showed up, for Wreathing for Community’s recent project.
They created 60 beautiful wreaths. Fifty apartments at Norwalk’s Open Doors Shelter are now hung with the handsome creations. Ten more are spread throughout the community center.
Faith Sargent — who organized the event — thanks all the wreath-makers, as well as the dozens of people who donated florals, wreath bases, ribbon and tools.
Many donated food, which also helps sustain Open Doors residents during the holiday season.
To learn more about Wreathing for Community, email faithasargent@gmail.com.
Some of the many wreath-makers, with their creations.
The curtain rises this week for Coleytown Middle School’s musical.
“Dare to Dream Jr.” is an hour-long, fun-filled show — perfect for kids of all ages. Shows are 6 p.m. Thursday (November 20) and 7 p.m. Friday (November 21). Click here for tickets.
The cast of Coleytown Middle School’s “Dare to Dream Jr.”
And finally … in honor of Coleytown Middle School’s “Dare to Dream” show (story above):
(Here’s “06880”‘s dream: That everyone who enjoys our hyper-local blog — and has the means to — chips in by clicking here to support our work. Hey, a boy can dream …)
A few minutes ago, superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice sent this message to Westport Public Schools parents and guardians:
As we conclude the day, I want to provide a brief follow-up to my earlier message regarding this morning’s reported threat to Coleytown Elementary School.
As shared earlier, at approximately 7:45 a.m., the Fairfield County Regional Dispatch Center received a 911 text message reporting a bomb threat to CES. Shortly thereafter, the Westport Police Department contacted district administration, and our established safety protocols were immediately implemented, no small task during the height of morning transportation.
By 8:15 a.m., families were notified of a 2-hour delayed start while the WPD, joined by the Stamford Police Bomb Squad and explosive detection K9 unit, conducted a comprehensive search of the building.
During this time, staff and students already on site were safely relocated to Coleytown Middle School, and CES buses en route were redirected to the same location.
At that point in time, CMS students were already en route to CMS or on campus. As a result, CMS was placed in a brief shelter-in-place as a precaution.
By 9:10 a.m., the WPD and their Stamford partners cleared the building, confirming that no explosive devices were found. CES was deemed safe, CES students returned later that morning between 10:45 and 11 a.m., and the CMS shelter-in-place was lifted.
Today’s tightly coordinated response resulted in a resolution of the incident in less than 90 minutes, while engaging 3 regional police departments (Stamford, Norwalk, and Fairfield, along with the Stamford Police Bomb Squad).
We were also supported on-site by Deputy Chiefs Ryan Paulsson and Dave Wolf of the Westport Police Department. Their professionalism and collaboration were exemplary and deeply appreciated.
Following the all-clear, both Coleytown Elementary and Coleytown Middle Schools convened their crisis response teams to review the morning’s events. Later, each school gathered their full faculties to debrief and reflect on the effectiveness of our response and the well-being of students and staff.
At CMS, Principal Janna Sirowich provided clear and compassionate communication throughout the morning.
At 8:25 a.m., she addressed all students and staff in the cafeteria and auditorium, explaining that while a threat had been made to CES, police determined it was not credible and that these actions were being taken as a precaution. She reassured everyone that the shelter-in-place was precautionary, encouraged calm, and asked students to refrain from using cell phones and Chromebooks.
She made a follow-up intercom announcement later thanking students and staff for their cooperation and composure, and confirming that the shelter-in-place had been lifted and normal routines could resume. She also reminded students that support was available for anyone feeling uneasy.
As I shared this morning, while any such threat is deeply unsettling, today’s events once again demonstrated the strength of our safety protocols, the professionalism of our law enforcement partners, and the calm leadership of our building administrators, the professionalism of our staff and the maturity of our students.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our district and school leaders, the Westport Police Department, and our regional law enforcement partners for their coordinated and effective response. Most of all, I want to thank our students and families for their patience, trust, and support throughout the day.
Coleytown Elementary School is operating on a 2-hour delay today, and Stepping Stones Preschool is closed, following a threat made concerning CES.
Students at nearby Coleytown Middle School were sheltering in place, in areas like the auditorium and cafeteria.
School officials told parents that while they do not believe the threat is credible, they are conducting a thorough review of CES. Students en route to Coleytown El were delivered to Coleytown Middle, where staff received and took care of them.
Coleytown Elementary School; in the background is Coleytown Middle School.
The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport celebrates the retirement of minister of music Rev. Dr. Edward Thompson this Saturday, with — appropriately — concert of his works.
The November 16 (7 p.m.) event features the New York-based Choral Chameleon ensemble. A reception follows the free concert.
Thompson is stepping down, after more than 46 years with the UU church. What began as a part-time position conducting a single choir blossomed into a full-time role, conducting 8 choirs across 2 weekly services.
He holds a master’s degree from the Juilliard School, and a doctorate from the University of Hartford.
For nearly 5 decades Thompson has guided hundreds of children and adults through choir, offering both musical training and spiritual mentorship.
During his tenure Thompson has composed numerous works for youth, adult and bell choirs. “Celtic Noel” was written for choir, Uilleann pipes, harp and tin whistle. “Seeking Home” is a 12-movement piece for choir, guitars and native flutes, dedicated to missing and murdered Indigenous women.
But the tide was plenty high yesterday morning, at Compo Beach.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
Good thing the weather is nice!
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A few seats remain for Coleytown Middle School’s fall musical review.
“Raise Your Voice” features 15 songs from “Into the Woods,” “Guys & Dolls,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” and “Oliver!,” to “Mary Poppins,” “Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin,” “Legally Blonde” and more.
Performances are Thursday, November 21 (6 p.m.) and Friday, November 22 (7 p.m). Click here; then search for “Coleytown.”
Coleytown Middle School students raise their voices. (Photo/Clair Benmosche)
Westport Country Playhouse has named new members to its Theatre Council. The advocacy group supports the artistic and community-building mission of the historic theatre, now in its 93rd year.
The volunteer group is guided by Playhouse trustee Ben Frimmer. Members include Ari Benmosche, Carin Freidag, Ivy Kramer-Gosseen, Jeff Gurner, Kerri Joller, Diana Mashia, Carolina Mata, Rachel Rosado Murray, Rabbi Zachary A. Plesent, Sara Robbin, Elizabeth Salem, Meredith Walker and Claire Wilkes.
Ben Frimmer leads the Westport Country Playhouse Theatre Council.
Long time Westport realtor-artist — and now writer — Jo Ann Miller, is out with her third book.
“Echo Bunker” follows protagonist Abbey Lane, who deals with corruption and collusion at the World Bank with kickbacks to bureaucrats and politicians.
BookList says: “Fast paced plot with spicy dialogue. While an ‘airplane book,’ a reader cannot wait until lift off.” It’s available on Amazon by Thanksgiving.
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This handsome guy posed for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature in Eric Roth’s Dogwood Lane front yard.
“Didn’t even flinch,” Eric reports.
Why should he? They were here first.
(Photo/Eric Roth)
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And finally … on this day in 1864, Union General William Tecumseh Sherman begins his famous “March to the Sea.”
Operating without supply lines, and lasting through December 21, his troops moved from Atlanta to Savannah. They destroyed military targets, along with industry, infrastructure and civilian property. The Confederacy’s economy and transportation networks were disrupted, helping lead to surrender in April 1865.
(As the photo above shows, the buck stops here — in Westport. Specifically, at “06880.” If you enjoy our hyper-local blog, and have a buck or two to help support us, please click here. Thank you!)
Today’s parking news: At the request of the EV Club and Sustainable Westport, the town will soon waive idle fees for electrical vehicle chargers at Baldwin during overnight hours.
Three hours is not enough time to fully charge most EVs plugging in with a low state of charge. EV owners who live near downtown and do not have home charging will now get a full charge, and will not have to get up at 2 a.m. to move their car.
EV Club president Barry Kresch tells “06880” that he does not yet know the range of hours, or when it will be implemented. He has been told that the software vendor will make the change.
Users still pay for their juice. So this means more revenue for the town.
NOTE: There are no idling fees for chargers in the Metro-North commuter lots.
Last year, the 4-year-old company — founded in Westport, now a tri-state sensation — raised $8 million in a fundraising round that included actor Paul Rudd, and athletes JJ and TJ Watt, Michael Phelps and Michael Strahan.
The same group has injected a Series B round of funding. A new CEO takes over, while founder/CEO Adam Goldberg becomes chief brand officer.
There are now 9 Pop-up Bagels shops. Another 6 are under development, with more planned along the East Coast.
Click here for the full story, via RestaurantBusiness.com.
Adam Goldberg, with Brooklyn BagelFest awards.
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More entrepreneurial news: Steven Graf and Zhach Pham are $300,000 richer.
That’s the investment the Staples High School Class of 2011 members — friends since 2nd grade here — just earned on “Shark Tank.”
When they were younger they ran a lemonade stand, built go-karts, and dug for buried treasure in their back yards.
Now — living in Denver — they have a company called RigStrips.
Their main product is a magnetic car mount (SnoStrip) that protects skis, snowboards and car exteriors by providing a space to slot into. It attaches to the side of a car, and helps avoid damage when equipment leans on it.
RigStrips sells a similar product for fishing poles and other outdoor products.
Click here for the full story, via BusinessDen.com. (Hat tip: Elizabeth DeVoll)
Steven Graf and Zhach Pham with RigStrips, on “Shark Tank.” (Photo courtesy of BusinessDen.com)
As of yesterday, CT Mirror reports, 4,669 Westporters have already voted in this year’s election.
That’s 23.4% of Westport’s 19,991 registered voters.
The breakdown of votes already cast: 2,470 Democrat; 782 Republican; 1,400 unaffiliated; 17 Independent Party.
Meanwhile, praise continues to pour in for the early voting process in Westport.
Jeff Seaver writes: “My daughter and I just came from Town Hall. It was such an uplifting experience. Thanks go to the wonderful volunteers who work very hard to make it work, and have it be such a positive experience.
“At one point a voter came in with their German shepherd. Oohing and aahing filled the Town Hall auditorium. It made me wonder if America doesn’t need emotional voting support animals at every polling place.
“Here’s a hats-off to the incredible volunteers who make this all possible, both here and across the country. Not a bad way to be instantly transported from what feels like an endless wall of doom, gloom, name-calling and meanness into a celebration of the incredible privilege we share — all of us, red, blue, purple, green and every other political shade on the spectrum — living in a democratic republic.”
Balloting runs today (Saturday) and tomorrow (Sunday, November 3), from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Town Hall auditorium.
Voting on Election Day (Tuesday, November 5), is from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., at regular polling places. Click here to view a district map.
Not the same dog that Jeff Seaver saw. But also an early voter. (Photo/Cat Malkin)
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Sure, it was 80 degrees yesterday.
But the Holiday Shop at the Westport Library is open for business.
The annual event — located on the main level, and now spilling into the Writing Center — includes scarves, hats and gloves (many handmade); humorous socks; unique dish towels; notebooks, journals and planners; handmade desert bells and other decorative items like paper lanterns, felt baskets, planters and birdhouses; snow globes; jewelry; festive candles; games; puzzles; toys; art supplies, and novelty items for kids.
Library Store purchases are tax-free. Proceeds support Library services and programs.
Southern Tide officially opens its new downtown store on November 15 (5 to 8 p.m., 33 Elm Street). Everyone is invited for drinks, music, and a gift with all purchases.
Southern Tide has partnered with Save the Sound for the event, to help protect local ecosystems and waterways.
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Teachers often tell students to lower their voice.
Later this month, Coleytown Middle Schoolers will raise them loud.
And their teachers, classmates, parents and everyone else will be thrilled.
“Raise Your Voice” is CMS’ fall musical revue. Featuring 15 songs from “Into the Woods,” “Guys & Dolls,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Oliver!,” “Mary Poppins,” “Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin,” “Legally Blonde” and more, it appeals to all ages.
Performances are Thursday, November 21 (6 p.m.) and Friday, November 22 (7 p.m). Tickets go on sale Monday (November 4). Click here; then search for “Coleytown.”
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Hurricanes have moved off the front pages.
But residents of the Southeast US are still dealing with the devastation.
The Westport Woman’s Club wants to help.
They’re collecting money to purchase new coats and blankets, and deliver them to impacted areas.
Click here to donate. You can also mail or drop off a check: Westport Woman’s Club, 44 Imperial Avenue, Westport, CT 06880. Put “Hurricane Drive” in the memo field.
Questions? Call 203-227-4240.
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Back in the day, there was one way to get rid of pumpkins: Throw ’em in the trash.
Then came awareness of the environment. Compost! Feed the wildlife! Make a planter!
What not to do?
This.
(Photo/Jamie Klein)
It’s an important reminder that not every “Westport … Naturally” image is uplifting.
And finally … tonight is the night we regain the hour of sleep we lost last March.
Don’t forget: Set your clocks back an hour. Enjoy!
(We hope you learn at least one thing new every day from “06880.” If this hyper-local blog helps you live your local life better, easier or more fulfillingly, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
From 6 p.m. until dark, everyone in our community — online and real — is invited to Compo’s South Beach, for our 11th annual “06880” blog party.
It’s a very casual, very fun, bring-your-own-food-and-drink (and chairs) event. Meet old friends; make new ones; watch the sun set (if the clouds part), and enjoy a summer evening with people drawn together by this hyper-local blog. See you there!
PS: Don’t worry. The clouds will be gone by the time we begin 🙂
Bring yourselves (and a bit of food) to tonight’s “06880” blog party! (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
But the fun doesn’t end when our blog party is over.
This Sunday (July 28, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) marks the first-ever Soundview Sidewalk Stroll.
The family-friendly street festival is a gift to Westport, from “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association. We’ve got help from the Parks & Recreation Department and Westport Police.
With Soundview Drive closed to traffic, Westporters are welcome to walk, bike, rollerblade and play, from the Soundview parking lot to the Compo Road jetty.
In addition to music from 4 great bands, youngsters can enjoy face painting, a balloon artist, craftsand more.
Volunteers from the Compo Beach Playground Committee will run this schedule, all day long:
On the hour: Tug of war
20 minutes after: Water balloon toss
40 minutes after: Inflatable relay race.
Old Mill Grocery & Deli will offer favorites from their menu.
The Soundview Summer Stroll is a great chance to meet old friends, make new ones, join the cool street scene, and enjoy Compo without worrying about traffic.
Best of all: It’s free! (Beach emblem required to park.) Don’t miss this one!
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Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice got a raise, and an additional year on his contract, this week.
The Board of Education vote was unanimous. His new salary — retroactive to July 1 — is $321,661. His contract runs through the 2026-27 school year.
Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice
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Speaking of education: Coleytown Middle School has a new principal.
Her commute will scarcely change. Janna Sirowich moves to her new post from Coleytown Elementary School, where she has spent the past 16 years as principal. Before that, she was a literacy leader and classroom teacher in Westport.
“While Janna is overwhelmed with gratitude for her years at CES, she is equally excited about this new opportunity and what lies ahead for her and CMS,” says superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.
Janna Sirowich
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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between July 17 and 24.
A 58-year-old Westport man was charged with assault, disorderly conduct, and tampering with a witness following a June incident at Birchwood Country Club. An employee was pushed to the ground by the man, who he did not know. Despite being warned not to contact the complainant, he did so twice.
A 48-year-old Westport man was charged with driving under the influence following a complaint by a passenger in the vehicle.
A 22-year-old New Britain man was charged with burglary, criminal mischief and larceny, and conspiracy to commit those crimes, following the early morning theft of an ATM from the Wheels gas station and convenience store on the Post Road in February.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to obey state traffic control regulations: 17 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 8
Failure to obey stop sign: 6
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 6
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5
Driving while texting: 3
Illegal shellfishing, closed area: 3
Illegal shellfish taking at night: 3
Violation of local shellfish regulations: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
Reckless driving: 1
Speeding: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Failure to yield to a bike at an intersection: 1
Following too closely: 1
Driving while texting, 2nd offense: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
This beautiful butterfly flitted past Lauri Weiser.
It alit just long enough for her to catch it, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
(Photo/Lauri Weiser)
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And finally … John Mayall, the pioneering British bluesman best known for influencing some of rock’s biggest names, died Monday in California. He was 90.
(“06880” looks forward to 2 great events: tonight’s “blog party,” and Sunday’s Soundview Summer Stroll [stories above]. As always, we look forward too to readers’ support. Please click here. Thanks!)
As Election Day looms, lawns and traffic islands will be filled with political signs. And the Westport Police Department will field complaints about the removal of them.
The WPD says: “Residents and visitors are advised against taking it upon themselves to remove signs that do not belong to them, from either public or private property.
“The enforcement of the town’s rules is the responsibility of the town of Westport, not that of private citizens. The removal of signs from public or private property by someone not authorized to do so by the town, or by the owner of the sign, may constitute theft. Entering onto private property to remove signs may also constitute trespassing. Both of these acts can ultimately result in an arrest.
“Town property includes traffic islands and road rights of way. It is not advisable to place signs on State of Connecticut property (including rights of way and islands along Routes 1, 136, 57, 33, and the Sherwood Island Connector, or on the exit or entrance ramps of I-95 or the Merritt Parkway) as the state may remove them.
“In addition, signs may not be placed on school property without permission of the superintendent’s office, nor may they be put inside Compo Beach or Longshore, Town Hall, or on trees or utility poles. Signs my not interfere with traffic visibility.
“Signs on private property cannot extend beyond the property line or into the town right-of-way. They should be removed within 2 days after the election.”
Political signs, 2012.
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Emmy Squared’s arrival was eagerly anticipated by Westporters who know — and love — its New York locations.
The new restaurant in the old Bedford Square Amis space has not disappointed.
Its square Detroit-style pizza, mammoth burgers and decadent brownie dessert draw big crowds and great raves.
Emmy Squared prides itself on friendliness and customer service. Here’s how they walk the talk: I was there last night. When it came time to bring out the meal, there were apologies instead.
My friend’s pizza had not come out right. The server did not want us to have a less-than-perfect experience. They were making a new one.
The attention to quality — and honesty — was refreshing.
And the wait was worth it. Emmy Squared is a winner.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Horrors –er. Commerce — has conjured up a new event to die for. A Halloween Concert and Costume Ball, featuring Bella’s Bartok, is set for Saturday, October 28 (8 p.m., Westport Library).
The event is an adult alternative to the Children’s Halloween Window Painting Contest, held earlier the same day (also run by the Chamber).
Costumes are encouraged. Prizes will awarded for best outfits, in several categories.
Specialty cocktails, beer and wine will allow patrons to pick their own poison.
Bella’s Bartok is an inspired choice for entertainment. Their raucous theatrical performances edge toward the macabre. Their high energy mix of funk, pop and folk will have even the deadest attendees dancing.
Tickets are $35. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Declining audiences is not just a Westport Country Playhouse woe.
It’s a national issue.
Several days ago, the New York Times examined the trend. Yesterday, they published letters in response.
Among them: Carole Schweid’s.
The organizer of the “Play With Your Food” series — which never went out of style — wrote:
As I like to say: “If Joe Papp can do ‘Shakespeare in the Park,’ we can do Chekhov in the parking lot.” Performances like these are one of the ways my nonprofit arts organization brought our audiences back at the end of the pandemic.
As producers of Connecticut’s popular lunchtime play-reading series, “Play With Your Food,” we’ve learned a lot about survival from our five-star Westport Library, which has evolved from an excellent library into a vibrant center for the community. Like it or not, books are not enough, and I fear that it is much the same for theater.
We have been developing programs: talkbacks, theater lovers’ book groups, reading lists, a book group where we read plays out loud together, and, my current stock in trade, staged readings, to name a few low-cost, engaging, community-building activities.
We try to remind our audiences of the joy and the unique fun that can be had being part of our community. I think of it as an investment in our future.
Carole Schweid/Westport, Conn. The writer was in the original Broadway cast of “A Chorus Line” and is the author of “Staged Reading Magic.”
Carole Schweid
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Speaking of the Playhouse: If you missed “Justin Paul & Friends” Saturday night there, what a shame.
The evening was both joyful (high energy, huge talent, memorable music) and important (it was a fundraiser).
Justin — the 2002 Staples High School graduate/Grammy-, Emmy- and Tony-winning songwriter (“Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman) — brought his “A” game. He not only rocked the piano and vocals, and not only enlisted a ton of great friends (Kelli O’Hara, James and Greg Naughton, Jacob Heimer, Staples Players …), but he described — again and again — the lasting influence that both Westport and Staples had on his development as a musician and a person.
If you were not there, this photo will have to suffice. If you were, you’ll appreciate once again Justin’s connection with the sold-out audience
Speaking of pianists: Ragtime rang out yesterday, at Green’s Farms Congregational Church.
The Y’s Women hosted Orin Grossman, professor emeritus of visual and performing arts at Fairfield University. His “From Ragtime to Stride: American Music Comes of Age” spanned many ages, from Scott Joplin to novelty piano and George Gershwin.
Grossman noted that when jazz was first introduced in the 1920s, it was looked upon as disparagingly as when Elvis burst on the scene 3 decades later.
Dr. Orin Grossman, at Green’s Farms Church. (Photo/Molly Alger)
Speaking still of pianists: Ethan Iverson makes his first-ever Jazz at the Post appearance Thursday (Sept. 14, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; cover charge $15).
Iverson — also a composer and writer — was a founding member of The Bad Plus.
Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall met Iverson in 1998 at a Brooklyn recording session. They recorded together … and the rest is jazz history.
Iverson and saxophonist Wall will be joined by bassist Yuriy Galkin and drummer Vinnie Sperrazza.
Dinner service begins at 7 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com
Westport plastic surgeon Flora Levin and her daughter Miri — a 10th grader at Hopkins School — recently returned from Guatemala. For the second year in a row, they volunteered with the International Esperanza Project to provide medical and surgical services, as well as building stoves and installing water filters 2 hours outside of Guatemala City.
Supplies are limited, in the poverty-stricken area. Levin brought sutures, lighting and anesthetic from her Connecticut office.
On the last day she did 8 lachrymal surgeries, but had only enough post-operative medication for 5. She went to a pharmacy and bought eye drops for $7 — an unaffordable cost for her patients.
Though Miri missed the first week of school, her mother says, “it was definitely worth the experience, and I am glad Hopkins appreciates that. The kids are amazing, always willing to help, first ones to get there, last ones to leave with the group. This is no summer camp, but there is an amazing sense of purpose and teamwork for a common cause.”
Click here for more information on the International Esperanza Project, including ways to help.
Dr. Flora Levin (left) and a Mexican colleague operate, in Guatemala. Miri Levin (rear) assists.
And finally … in honor of “ragtime professor” Dr. Orin Grossman, and his Y’s Women appearance (story above):
(If you enjoy our daily Roundup, please round up some loose cash, and toss it our way. “06880” relies on support from readers like you. Please click here — and thank you)
On Wednesday, the Board of Finance authorized the addition of 3 officers, to patrol 6 Westport schools.
They will be responsible for security at 2 campuses: one each at Coleytown Middle and Elementary Schools; Kings Highway and Saugatuck Elementary, and Long Lots/Greens Farms Elementary.
They will remain outside, unless called to an emergency inside.
The cost for a full year is $576,084. The request must now be approved by the Representative Town Meeting.
A second security item — a fob on all Staples High School staff members’ identification lanyard, which can summon help in a 500,000 square foot building and sprawling outdoor athletic facilities that does not have full cellphone service, or access to emergency phones everywhere — was withdrawn before the meeting.
One Westport police officer will be assigned to Coleytown Elementary School (foreground) Coleytown Middle (rear).
Before the start of last night’s Levitt Pavilion benefit concert with Daryl Hall and Todd Rundrgren, disgruntled patrons emailed “06880.”
“There is a tent blocking the view for a good portion of the patrons’ section,” one person wrote.
One view of the obstructed view …
“The sound board obstructs the view for most patrons,” someone else said.
… and another.
Carleigh Welsh — the Levitt’s director of development and marketing — responded to an “06880” email, as soon as the complaints were forwarded to her.
She wrote: “We have been moving people into non-obstructed seats. It would help greatly if they could email the box office right now if they are still in a legitimately blocked seat and we can relocate them. Some people we have approached have opted to stay put.
“Happy to share more about the rain tent covering the console in an email after show, but right now helping ushers fix any issues.”
Meanwhile — despite rain — the show went on. Todd Rundgren and Daryl Hall are pros.
And the audience raised funds to help the Levitt provide another 60 or so free concerts next year.
Which means everyone who graduated in June from Staples is now off to college, working, in the military, taking a gap year, or otherwise amusing themselves.
Which also means: Isn’t it time you took down your “Home of a 2023 Staples High School graduate” sign?
We get it. You were proud. Congratulations!
Now let’s move on …
Graduation is over! (Photo/Dan Woog)
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MDSolarSciences — the Westport-based sunscreen company — spent a day last week on a “sun safety tour.”
They handed out products to grateful — and now-protected — police, firefighters, EMTs, and Longshore employees.
MDSolarSciences representatives, and Westport firefighters.
Braiden Sunshine — who recently open for Leann Rimes, and mesmerized the audience — stars at the next First Folk Sunday (September 3, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, 12:30 p.m.; $10).
In 2015 — just 15 years old — he reached the semifinals of “The Voice.”
Click here for tickets. For more information, email info@firstfolksunday.com, or call 203-222-1441.
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Ellie Hamby and Dr. Sandy Hazelip — 81-year-old friends — got plenty of attention last year, when they circled the globe in 80 days. They traveled to 18 countries, and visited all 7 continents.
At the Yale Club on Wednesday, Howard Matson — a Westporter, and past international president of the Circumnavigators Club — honored the women with honorary memberships in the 121-year-old organization.
Howard Matson, with octogenarian circumnavigators.
And finally … in honor of last night’s Levitt Pavilion benefit concert (story above):
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