Tag Archives: Cross Highway

Roundup: Cross Highway Safety, StartUp Westport, National Charity League …

Posted on January 31, 2024 | 7 comments

For a quiet-seeming stretch of road, Cross Highway between North Avenue and Bayberry Lane sure sees a lot of action.

And accidents.

On February 8 (7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), engineers from the Public Works Department will hold a public information meeting to discuss traffic and safety improvements there.

The design phase of a project is mostly complete. Now comes construction.

At the meeting, attendees can review proposed improvements, and learn how the
town will implement them. There will be time too to ask questions about possible impacts to the neighborhood. In addition to PWD staff, the design engineer will be on hand.

Questions? Contact town engineer Keith Wilberg: kwilberg@westportct.gov; (203) 341-1128.

An all-too-common occurrence on Cross Highway at North Avenue. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)

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StartUp Westport — the town’s public/private partnership aimed at making Westport a tech entrepreneurial hub — has 2 very cool upcoming events.

And everyone is invited to be part of our town’s tech future.

On February 29 (6 p.m., Westport Library), “Past, Present and Future Opportunities for Diverse Entrepreneurs” is a great addition to Black History Month.

NBC news anchor/Westport resident Craig Melvin will moderate the discussion. StartUp Westport’s own Jay Norris leads the event, which is co-sponsored by Westport 10.

Local business leaders Kal Amin, Eric Freeman, Ilka Gregory, Craig Livingston, Adam Moore, Pamela Moss, Paige Parker, Ted Parker, Michele Peterso and Kitt Shapiro will share stories of their careers, and offer insights into launching and running a successful business in film/TV, music, real estate, retail, technology, food and beverage, and financial services.

The program begins with a video history of diverse business ownership in Fairfield County, and also includes a cocktail reception. Click here to register.

On March 18 (6:30 p.m. cocktail reception; 7 p.m. program, Westport Library), StartUp Westport presents a “Female Founders and Investors” forum. Co-hosts are Tidal River Fund, Connecticut’s first angel group and fund for women investors.

The event will be led by Westport-based financial services, personal finance and angel investing expert Galia Gichon, co-managing partner at Tidal River Fund.

Female founders and investors will share their experiences with fundraising for, investing in and launching early stage start-ups. Click here to register.

To join the StartUp Westport Linked In group, click here.

Craig Melvin, StartUp Westport moderator.

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Each year, the Westport National Charity League’s senior class completes a capstone project.

Since August, the Class of 2024 has planned theirs: renovating 4 bathrooms at Caroline House in Bridgeport.

Last weekend, they got to work.

The project received very generous support. Among others, Jason Raymond of Raymond Design Builders helped with preparation and professional final touches, while the Rings End/Benjamin Moore team in Westport donated paint and painting supplies. The generosity of the Westport community was shown by every individual and local business who assisted with this project.  It was beyond inspiring and made all the renovations possible.

Krisztina and Isabella Rivel volunteer at Caroline House.

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Looking for something to do in the hours before the Super Bowl?

Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella has organized a trash pick-up for Super Bowl Sunday (February 11).

Volunteers should meet at 11 a.m. at Grace Salmon Park, on Imperial Avenue. They’ll collect garbage from there to the Westport Library parking lot.

Dress warmly. Wear boots and gloves. Bring trash bags (and a picker, if you’ve got one).

Questions? Email acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

Grace Salmon Park is a Westport favorite. But there’s garbage to pick up there, and nearby. (Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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For 33 years, the Greens Farms Academy Community Service Board, Concert Choir, and Harbor Blues and Beachside Express a cappella groups have organized “Harmony for the Homeless.” Performances include solos, small groups and large pieces.

The groups select an organization or specific family to support. Last year, for example, Harmony helped the Reyes family rebuild their lives after a fire destroyed their home.

This year, instead of ticket sales, Harmony will collect food donations for the Danbury Daily Bread food pantry. The goal is to fill an entire truck with goods.

The event is March 2 (7:30 p.m., Janet Hartwell Performing Arts Center at GFA).

Among the items requested: dried beans, rice (1- or 2-pound bags), cooking oil, tea, coffee, meals-in-a-can, baby food, snacks and treats for children, breakfast cereal (hot or cold), ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar, hot sauce, cookies, crackers, sugar, flour, baking items like cake mix,

Also needed: shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, laundry detergent, household cleaning products, hand sanitizer, soap, paper towels, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, coloring books, crayons, inexpensive toys.


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Eva Amurri is getting married again.

And — as it did the first time — People Magazine is chronicling every moment of  the Westport actress’ nuptials.

Her first marriage was to 1999 Staples High School graduate/former professional soccer player/broadcaster/entrepreneur Kyle Martino. They divorced, but remain good friends as they co-parent their 3 children.

Now, Amurri — the daughter of actress Susan Sarandon and director Franco Amurri — is engaged to chef Ian Hock.

Click here for the full People magazine story. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

Eva Amurri and Ian Hock.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows a serene tableau at the 1921 Emily McLaury house on Myrtle Avenue:

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … on this date in 1865, Congress passes the 13th Amendment to the US Constitution, abolishing slavery. It was then submitted to the states, for ratification.

How far have we come in 159 years? You be the judge.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. To support our work with a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Library, technology

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Roundup: Bridge Slide, Smoke Shops, PAL Gala …

Posted on November 3, 2023 | 4 comments

A reminder (and we can’t remind readers often enough): From tonight through early Monday morning, the second “bridge slide” takes place.

The new I-95 Saugatuck Avenue bridge will be slid over, replacing the old one. Traffic will be diverted onto local roads.

Drivers using Waze and other apps will find their own ways around the miss, as they did 2 weeks ago. Areas far from 95, like Hermit Lane and Gorham Avenue, were affected.

If you’re going to weekend happenings — like Saturday’s Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services banquet at the VFW, or the next day’s “First Folk Sunday” (also at the VFW), or Sunday’s “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour — plan accordingly.

To keep up to date, bookmark this website.

And don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Preparing for the 2nd I-95 “bridge slide.” (Photo/JD Dworkow)

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If it seems like there are a lot of vape and smoke shops popping up around town: You’re not high. It’s true.

The Planning & Zoning Commission has taken notice too.

The first agenda item at its November 13 meeting (7 p.m., Zoom; click here to see) includes a text amendment that would “protect the public health and welfare by adding language to define and prohibit Smoke Shops and add stricter standards applicable to other establishments that sell smoking related products, but do not qualify as a Smoke Shop as described in the definition.”

New language is also proposed to “prohibit light emitting diode or LED signs so as to reduce potential distractions to motorists” — one of the complaints about Savvy Smoker, the new shop next to Christian Siriano at the corner of Post Road East and West Parish Road.

Click here for the full text amendment.

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Nearly 400 fans packed the Inn at Longshore last night, for Westport PAL’s 2nd annual gala.

The Romano family (Pete, his parents PJ and Joan, sister Pam Romano-Gorman, and daughters), and former PAL president Ned Batlin, were honored for their longtime contributions to the non-profit that serves thousands of Westport youth every year.

There was an auction too, including special items like VIP parking — and beach sitting — areas for the PAL-sponsored 4th of July fireworks.

And there were heartfelt testimonials to the importance of Westport PAL (and the influence of so many volunteer coaches) by former lacrosse player Henry Dodge, current Staples High School quarterback Caleb Smith, and 6th grade athlete Tristen Rycenga.

It was a great, Westport-centric evening. Funds raised will go to the new, 2-story clubhouse planned for (of course) PJ Romano Field.

6th grader Tristen Rycenga (at microphone) and teammates thank Westport PAL for all they do. PAL president Craig Bergamo is at left. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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Also yesterday: 90-year-0ld Win Allen provided a snapshot of his life story to the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston.

The 48-year resident of Westport grew up in Harlem, attended law school, earned a Fulbright Scholarship, then created the first Black-owned Wall Street firm.

He has written 3 books, most recently“How I Pried Open Wall Street in 1962.”

Win Allen speaks to the Y’s Men. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)

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Ukraine Aid International –– the non-profit founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer — continues to deliver crucial aid.

The organization has purchased a water filtration truck, for deliveries to frontline locations to places — like our sister city of Lyman — without permanent installations.

Lyman’s police also just received a generous donation from the Westport Police Department. The shipment includes gear that was scheduled to be replaced here, including bulletproof vests, shoulder radios, winter hats and gloves, car radios, police belts and ballistic helmets.

Donations to Lyman are always welcome. Click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)

Ukraine Aid International’s water filtration truck.

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No, the Sherwood Diner’s “closed for improvements” isn’t a euphemism.

The popular, decades-old Post Road restaurant is updating its kitchen. It closed Monday. Construction may take another week or so.

Then it’s back to normal — well, even better — for one of our town’s most favorite hangouts. (Hat tip: Arthur Hayes)

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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There can’t be enough Halloween candy for kids.

For adults — well, you may have way too many Kit Kats, M&Ms and apples (just kidding) left over from Monday night.

Al’s Angels are happy to take it off your hands.

From now through Wednesday (November 8), bring extra Halloween candy to Saugatuck Sweets’ Westport or Fairfield locations.

It will be placed in nearly 1,500 Al’s Angels Thanksgiving holiday meal bins, for children battling cancer, rare blood diseases and several financial hardship.

Sweeeeeet! (Hat tip: Francis Fiolek)

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For a while, the Highway Department has been working on Cross Highway, between Punch Bowl Drive and Roseville Road.

They removed the embankment and adding new catch basin tops, prepping the area for contractors to pave.

The result: a more accessible, safer stretch for pedestrians. It will also be easier for the Department of Public Works to maintain, all year long.

Roseville Road (Photo courtesy of Department of Public Works)

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Kevin McCaffrey writes:

“On September 13, the Conservation Board approved a plan to build a luxury townhouse next to Eloise A. Ray Park, on Riverside Avenue. 

“This approval occurred over the objections of a number of residents, including a ‘Friends of the Park’ group which has been lobbying against the project for some time. 

“Opponents of the project argue that it will be unusable while construction is ongoing; that it will be used in part as a staging area, and damaged by equipment; that the park will be ‘forever altered by having a multi-level house, driveway, patio and walls’ encroaching on it; that trees will be cut, wildlife displaced, and that traffic on Riverside will be affected for lengthy periods of time.

“While the project still requires approval by Planning & Zoning (no hearing date has yet been set), Friends of Eloise A. Ray Park urges residents to find out where P&Z candidates stand on this issue. They also invite interested residents to email saveeloise@gmail.com.”

Eloise A. Ray Park

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People with Autism Spectrum Disorder, who are drivers or passengers in cars, are invited to a “Traffic Stop Practice” tomorrow (Saturday, November 4, 8 a.m. to noon), Sacred Heart University).

Sponsored in part by the Westport Police Department, the goal is to provide those with ASD with information about interactions during a routine traffic stop. They’ll also learn how to use the Department of Motor Vehicles’ “Blue Envelope,” which helps enhance communication with officers.

To register, email asd-center@southernct.edu; include “Traffic Stop Practice” in the subject line, and include name, phone, email and physical address.

The state DMV “blue envelope” program, for people with autism.

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Though 180 families applied to the Salvation Army for Thanksgiving turkeys and other food, the organization expects their CT Food Share allotment will not cover the need.

The seek additional support from are residents.

The Salvation Army also hopes to purchase new coats, sneakers and toys for hundreds of youngsters.

To help, and for more information, contact Major Persi Sanclemente: Persida.Sanclemente@USE.SalvationArmy.org; 401-439-3480.

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Yesterday’s frost was the first of this fall.

Jacqui O’Brien captured it in Greens Farms, for “Westport … Naturally”:

(Photo/Jacqui O’Brien)

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And finally … this weekend’s “bridge slide” is not electric.

But this video will get you in a happier mood than you otherwise might be:

(Staying home to avoid all the traffic? Slide over to this link, and help support “06880.” Thank you!)

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Roundup: Ed Budget, Farmers’ Market, Traffic Safety, Laura Linney …

Posted on May 3, 2023 | 9 comments

A day after passing the $81.3 million town budget, Westport’s Representative Town Meeting okayed a second, much larger one.

Voting 31-0 after little discussion, the legislative body passed the $144.3 million plan.

The final part of the 3-step budget process is approving the mill rate. That comes later this month.

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In journalism, a “dog bites man” story is one that happens so frequently, it’s not really news.

Without downplaying its seriousness, that’s a good way to describe accidents at the Cross Highway/North Avenue intersection.

Another one took place yesterday at the poorly angled, difficult-to-see-past site. This one involved 2 vehicles, with injuries. The Westport Fire Department released a photo, but provided no other details.

Yesterday’s crash at Cross Highway and North Avenue. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

The Post Road/Wilton Road/Riverside Avenue intersection has been called Westport’s worst.

But at least it has a light.

And, from time to time, a cop.

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Coincidentally, Today’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast features 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker’s take on the recent public meeting on street improvement for traffic and pedestrian safety, and the increased Westport Police traffic safety enforcement program.

Click below to listen to this Y’s Men of Westport and Weston production.

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Happy May! And happy return of the Westport Farmers’ Market!

Our favorite outdoor produce-and-much-more celebration returns to the Imperial Avenue parking lot May 11. It runs every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., through early November.

This year promises to be the best in the market’s 17-year history. A variety of programs operating under their “who grows your food” banner will add even more community-inspired programs, vendors, sponsors and activities.

Vendors – WFM favorites and new faces – will hold to high standards of sustainable practices, including plastic-free packaging, and participate in other market-to-community efforts. Among them: Farmer-to-School-to-Community, Farmer Kids Community, Friend of the Market, Recipe, Farmer-to-Veterans, Get Growing, Farmer Fund, Young Shoots, and other programs focused on giving back.

This year’s lunch and music areas will be shaded and separated from the central shopping experience. The Westport Library will select musical guests, through Verso Studios.

For more details, click here or email director@westportfarmersmarket.com.

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Tickets for “Booked for the Evening” — the Westport Library’s big fundraiser — go on sale next Monday (May 8, 10 a.m.; click here).

This year’s guest is Laura Linney. The noted theater, film and television actor will be honored in the Trefz Forum on July 13.

Now in its 24th year, “Booked for the Evening” celebrates an individual whose work reflects the purpose of the Library: to nurture a love of learning, and enhance our understanding of the world.

Laura Linney

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Mexicue — the very popular new Main Street restaurant — has expanded both their menu and hours.

They’ve added dinner-focused “Platos Fuertes,” while at the same time opening for lunch 7 days a week. Their new hours are Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with brunch on weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Weekday happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m.

Updated hours below. We also just launched a new menu with several more dinner-focused “Platos Fuertes” – menu attached.

Mexicue is the newest addition to our “06880” Restaurants tab. Just click on at the top of our home page (or here), for a wide variety of local spots — including menus, websites and social media.

Mexicue’s intriguing interior.

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Speaking of restaurants: Is Emmy Squared coming to Westport?

CTBites — the state’s premier food blog, published by our very own Stephanie Webster — reports the “unconfirmed” news that the “iconic and much-loved” restaurant is looking for staff here.

Begun in Brooklyn in 2016, “they are known for their signature Detroit-style pizza, marked by its square shape, crispy bottom, fluffy dough, cheesy ‘frico’ crust, and signature sauce stripes.

“Their famed double-stack burger, Le Big Matt (served on a pretzel bun), was named ‘#1 Best Burger in Nashville’ by The Tennessean and Nashville Lifestyles, voted one of ‘The Best New Burgers In NYC’ by Gothamist, and listed as one of the ‘20 Best Burgers in NYC’ by The Infatuation. The menu also highlights a selection of approachable salads and sandwiches served on pretzel buns.”

There are now 8 location in New York, Nashville, Philadelphia, Washington and Louisville.”

Pizzas from Emmy Squared.

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In March, “06880” reported on Lynda Bluestein’s crusade. The longtime and very active member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport has terminal fallopian tube cancer. That month she reached a settlement with the state of Vermont, making her the first non-resident to take advantage of a law that allows people with terminal illnesses to end their own lives.

Yesterday, Governor Phil Scott signed a bill that removes the residency requirement from the state’s medical aid in dying law. Bluestein’s case prompted legislators to revise the law for all non-Vermonters. Click here for the full story.

Lynda Bluestein and her husband Paul. (Photo courtesy of NBC Connecticut)

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Westport resident Lee Bly’s home golf course is Longshore.

But on Sunday, at Stamford’s Sterling Farms, the 2007 Staples High School graduate had a hole-in-one. Playing with former classmate Carter Myers, Lee aced the 223-yard par 3 17th hole.

Congratulations, Lee!

Lee Bly, at his now-favorite hole.

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TAP Strength hosts a special Sound Bath Meditation Class tomorrow (Thursday, May 4, 7 to 8 p.m., 180 Post Road East).

Experience deep relaxation, enhanced mental focus, clarity and creativity through crystal and Tibetan bowls, gongs, chimes and other instruments.

Bring a mat and any other items to feel comfortable. Member and non-member class fees apply. Email nancy@tapstrength.com or call 203-292-9353 for more information.

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Jazz at the Post goes international this week.

Japanese pianist Hiroshi Yamazaki will be joined by Takashi Otsuka on bass, and Americans Jason Tiemann on drums and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” on sax.

There are 2 shows (7:30 and 8:45 p.m., Thursday, May 4; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399). Dinner service begins at 7.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

Hiroshi Yamazaki

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Since moving here a couple of years ago, Shona Rhimes has become an avid Westporter.

Westport Lifestyle magazine caught up with our new neighbor, for their May issue. She describes how she chose our town, the buzz behind buying her house, what she’s up to now (a “Bridgerton” prequel) and more. Click here to read.

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

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Once upon a time, you saw sights like this in Westport.

(Photo/Carl Addison Swanson)

You still see it in New York.

But — as Carl Addison Swanson, who spotted the sofa and sign on Richmondville Avenue — notes, “This may be the last free thing in Westport.”

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Among the recent “Westport … Naturally” sights this spring: a crabapple tree at Ned Dimes Marina.

(Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

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And finally … Gordon Lightfoot died Monday in Toronto. He was 84.

Though never as popular in the US as in his native Canada — where he was a beloved icon — the folk singer was one of my all-time favorites. He had me with “Go Go Round” in the mid-1960s, and never let go.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Every day, the “06880” Roundup is filled with news you can use [or not — your choice]. If you enjoy this feature, please consider a contribution. Just click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Local politics, Sports, Transportation

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Dashing Through Westport

Posted on April 20, 2023 | 23 comments

If you were in Westport last week — the public schools’ spring break — you know how light the traffic was.

The Post Road, Riverside and Saugatuck Avenue — wherever there’s usually congestion, it’s been full speed ahead.

Uh oh.

Some drivers were too impatient, even when traffic is light.

An alert — and partly shaken up, partly enraged — “06880” reader sent not one but two clips from her dashcam. She stitched them together, in the video below.

The first shows someone heading southbound on Bayberry Lane, toward Long Lots Road. A small truck ahead of him or her isn’t moving fast enough, so — right at the 25 MPH speed limit sign, of all places — the driver crosses the double line and blows past.

The second part catches a driver who does not even slow down at the 4-way Cross Highway/North Avenue intersection.  He or she roars straight through — also toward Long Lots.

A few seconds later both the dashcam driver and another, heading the opposite direction, stop at the stop sign.

Both are safe.

For now.

(“06880” is your hyper-local — and hyper-vigilant — blog. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Transportation, Westport life

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Roundup: Cross Highway Work, Post Road Trees, Moscow Muppets …

Posted on March 8, 2023 | 9 comments

The dangerous stretch of Cross Highway between North Avenue and Bayberry Lane is slated for improvements.

Residents can review proposals at a public information meeting next Tuesday (March 14, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Department of Public Works engineering staff and other town officials will discuss and answer questions regarding the proposals, and any potential impacts to the neighborhood.

The design engineer will participate online, with data and drawings.

Proposed concepts range from minor traffic sign upgrades to complete intersection reconstruction. They include, but are not limited to:

  • Adding crosswalks in key areas
  • Construction of new and/or repair of existing sidewalks
  • Adding revised signage along the right-of-way
  • Relocation of utility poles
  • Installation of traffic signals
  • Roadway widening at the intersections to realign approach and turning lanes
  • Installation of roundabouts at the intersections
  • Bridge replacement over Dead Man’s Brook.

For questions about the project, call town engineer Keith Wilberg at 203-341-1128, or email kwilberg@westportct.gov.

A recent 3-car accident at the intersection of Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)

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Alert “06880” reader Bob Weingarten writes:

“I drove by the Linxweiler Homestead house at 655 Post Road East (between Fresh Market and McDonald’s) — given to the town in 1981 — and saw 10 or so red ribbons on trees in the front and side of the property.  This is normally an indication that the trees will be eliminated.

“Very strange. There seems to be too many to be ‘sick’.”

The tree warden has not responded to a request for comment.

Trees with red ribbons by Linxweiler House: the view from Post Road East …

… and from Crescent Road. (Photos/Bob Weingarten)

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The #7-ranked Staples High School boys basketball team easily dispatched #26 Manchester last night, in the first round of the state Division II tournament.

The score was 74-39, and the game was not even that close. But what the large crowd will remember most happened a few seconds from the end.

The Redhawks coach substituted in a player with a developmental disability. A Staples player fouled him softly, but deliberately, at the 3-point line, giving him 3 free throws.

He missed them all — not by much — but the referee detected a lane violation on the third. The young athlete sank his 4th attempt — swish! — to the roar of both teams, and fans on both sides of the gym.

The win advances Staples to the round of 16. They host #23 RHAM — an upset 61-52 winner over Enfield — tomorrow (Thursday, March 9). Game time is 6:30 p.m. (Hat tip: Jordan Schur)

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Television producer/filmmaker/author Natasha Rogoff talks about her debut book, “Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia” tomorrow — and the public is invited.

It’s a true story from the mid-1990s, when the Soviet Union renounced communism and moved toward democracy. Amid bombings, assassinations and a military takeover of the production office, Rogoff and a talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers and puppeteers brought laughter, learning and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire.

The Westport Library event (March 9, 10 a.m.) is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

Click below for more information:

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A wide variety of films will be shown at Friday’s “Teen Festival” at MoCA Westport (March 10, 6 p.m., 19 Newtown Turnpike).

High school students from around the area have submitted short films. Some are serious; some are funny — all are intriguing and worht seeing.

Tickets are $5 in advance (click here), $10 at the door). Proceeds fund the work of the Teens at MoCA club. Light snacks will be served.

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Jeremy Schaap — award-winning journalist, author, host of ESPN’s “E:60” and “Outside the Lines,” and a 1986 Staples High School graduate and current Westporter — spoke at the Westport Rotary Club’s lunch meeting yesterday.

Schaap — son of legendary sportscaster and writer Dick Schaap — described growing up immersed in the New York sports world when the Yankees, Mets, Jets and Giants loomed large.

Yet he called Mike Tyson one of his most fascinating interview subjects. They’ve spoken over 100 times, and “he’s the athlete that most let you into how he was thinking.”

Schaap was interviewed by his longtime friend Karl Mergenthaler (Staples ’87), Westport Rotary Club president.

Jeremy Schaap, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting at Green’s Farms Church. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Looking for a Westport-themed St. Patrick’s Day gift? Or yourself?

You’re in luck!

“Finding Westport” has just introduced a new collection of hoodies, tees, tank tops, blankets, mugs and more. Click here to see, and order.

 

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Young LGBTQ+ people are making their mark on Westport, and the world.

Now they’re eligible for a scholarship, up to $1,000.

Sponsored by Westport Pride, it is open to anyone who has planned or been part of activities or organizations in the LGBTQ+ community; anyone who feels their experiences as a young queer person has shaped their perspective as an aspect of themselves, or LGBTQ+ individuals who produced art that highlights the history, struggles or triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community.

High school students in Westport are eligible. Applications are available here, or at the Staples High School College & Career Center. Applications include an essay, video or art piece, and small write-up.

The application deadline is March 31.

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All 3 Westport selectwomen visited Staples High School on Monday, to celebrate Civic Learning Week. The goal is to empower students to become active, engaged members of their community.

In a meeting moderated by seniors Scarlett Siegel and Spencer Yim, Jen Tooker Andrea Moore and Candice Savin answered questions from students. Topics ranged from the structure of town government to efforts to address sustainability, traffic and other areas.

Members of the Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society assisted with the event.

Celebrating Civic Learning Week (from left): Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice, moderators Spencer Yim and Scarlett Siegel, and selectwomen Jen Tooker, Andrea Moore and Candice Savin.

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A Compo Beach sunset shows off our town’s beauty, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … David Lindley was not a household name. But the session guitarist played on some of the most famous recordings by Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt, Rod Stewart and others. He performed on his own too.

Lindley died Friday, at 78. He had suffered from kidney trouble, pneumonia and other ailments. Click here for a full obituary. Click below to hear his work:

(Please make sure “06880” is not running on empty. Click here to contribute. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Environment, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Pic Of The Day #2135

Posted on February 20, 2023 | 2 comments

Cross Highway (Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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Pic Of The Day #2072

Posted on December 19, 2022 | 4 comments

Peace barn, Cross Highway (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Roundup: Cross Highway Crash, Used Sports Equipment, Terry Brannigan …

Posted on December 7, 2022 | 11 comments

Another accident at the crash-prone Cross Highway/Bayberry Lane intersection sent one person to the hospital just before noon on Monday.

The collision — which closed Bayberry for a while — began when a driver headed toward Fairfield on Cross Highway ran the stop sign. The vehicle slammed into a car headed south on Bayberry. That automobile then hit the front of a car stopped at the northbound Bayberry stop sign.

The motorist who went through the stop sign was treated by EMS and transported to Norwalk Hospital for minor injuries.

The 3-car accident at the intersection of Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)

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Back in 2020, the Hackett family wanted to do something meaningful to give back to those in need.

All avid athletes, they chose a project that connects with them, and their Westport community. (It also helps clear out clutter.)

Working with Leveling the Playing Field — a non-profit organization helps underprivileged youngsters who need sports equipment — they’ll collect new and gently used sports and playground equipment.

They’ll be at the Granola Bar this Saturday and Sunday (December 10 and 11), from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Hackett family, with just a few of their many donations.

You must have stuff lying around: cleats, field hockey sticks, lacrosse equipment, bats, ice hockey skates, footballs, softball gloves, soccer shin guards, etc. Click here for a full list of items — you’ll be amazed at what you forgot you have.

So clean out your garages, sheds and basements. It’s time to level the playing field for everyone!

For more information about this amazing organization, click below:

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One of the most important holiday collections is going on right now.

The Westport Domestic Violence Task Force is collecting gift cards for residents of 2 Domestic Violence Crisis Center safe houses.

Gift cards allow survivors the dignity to purchase what they most need or want for their families. Suggested retailers include Stop & Shop, ShopRite, Amazon, Target and Walmart.

Gift cards can be left with the dispatch center in the lobby of the Westport Police Department (50 Jesup Road), between now and December 13.

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Staples High School Class of 2020 graduate Terry Brannigan has many talents.

He’s double majoring in physics and music at Wesleyan University. He’s minoring in IDEAS (Integrated Design, Engineering and Applied Science). He’s a varsity wrestler.

And now — as wrestling season is just ramping up — he’s released a new song.

“Sunshine Serenade” is a blend of musical styles, from metal to R&B. Terry has been working on it — evolving and growing — the song for years.

“It finally bloomed into this rollercoaster that it is now,” he says.

Click here to stream “Sunshine Serenade,” on your favorite platform.

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Amy Schneider snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo behind the Levitt Pavilion.

“What is it?” she wonders.

All I know is: It died long ago.

If you’re more of a naturalist than Amy or I, please click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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And finally … Kirstie Alley — Rebecca on “Cheers,” among many other acting credits — died Monday. She was 71, and had suffered from cancer.

She had quite a full career (click here for her obituary). And when she died, everyone knew her name.

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(“06880” is — we hope — the blogosphere’s version of a neighborhood bar. Please click here to support us. Thank you!)

11 Comments

Posted in Children, Entertainment, Local business, Police, Sports, Transportation

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4-Way Stop Signs: 4 Rules

Posted on October 23, 2022 | 19 comments

“06880” has performed many civic functions over the years.

We’ve told you where to get COVID vaccines (remember those?).

We’ve given you details on dumping your yard waste after a storm. We’ve provided primers on septic systems.

Today, we’re a Driver Ed teacher.

Alert “06880 reader — and terrified-to-be-on-the-road-these-days Westporter — Lynn Flint sends along these reminders of who has the right-of-way at 4-way stop signs.

Three examples: Hillspoint and Greens Farms Roads; Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane; Cross Highway and North Avenue (tricky, because one of the stops is not visible to all other drivers).

The North Avenue/Cross Highway intersection may be the most dangerous one in Westport without a light. Who goes first?

Here are the rules:

1. The first vehicle to arrive has the right of way. Pretty easy: You get there (clearly) first, you go first.

2. Always yield to the right. When 2 vehicles arrive side by side, the one furthest to the right has the right of way. (That’s “right” — an easy way to remember it.) If there are 3 vehicles, the one furthest left goes last (“left = last”).

3. Straight traffic has the right of way over turning traffic. This applies when 2 cars face each other. If they’re both heading straight, or turning in the same direction (say, both left or both right), both can go at the same time. If one is turning, but the other is not, the turning driver yields to the straight-ahead driver. NOTE: This assumes that a driver who is turning uses the turn signal. That’s the little arm on the steering column. It is not difficult to push up or down, and it is not there for decoration.

4. Right turns take the right of way over left turns. This is Advanced Placement Driver Ed. Imagine 2 cars facing each other. One is turning right; the other is turning left. If they both go at the same time, they’ll crash. So the car turning right — the one closest to the turn — goes first.

There is no written test for this — just a practical exam.

See you on the road!

(Hat tip: TopDriver.com)

(Like these occasional tips? Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)

19 Comments

Posted in Transportation, Westport life

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Pic Of The Day #1996

Posted on October 4, 2022 | 6 comments

Biking under the Merritt Parkway Bridge, on Cross Highway (Photo/Seth Schachter)

6 Comments

Posted in Pic of the Day, Transportation

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