Tag Archives: Darcy Hicks

Roundup: “06880” House Tour & Stroll, Election Day Signs & Stats, Lynsey & Darcy …

Posted on November 3, 2025 | 7 comments

Lovingly preserved homes and beautiful fall weather were the perfect combination for yesterday’s very educational, very high energy and very fun “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour.

Over 130 guests toured 2 properties on Greens Farms Road (both once owned by the Bedford family), and 2 other equally cool ones, on Long Lots Road and Wilton Road.

“06880” board members Dan Donovan and Bill Scheffler flank KMS Team at Compass members Mary Ellen Gallagher and Susan Seath, at 249 Greens Farms Road. Built by Edward T. Bedford, its interior is similar to the 1923 Westport YMCA building — which he endowed too.

Huge props to our friends at KMS Team at Compass, who helped organize the event, and provided historical background and other materials; Pat Shea of Coldwell Banker, who is involved with one of the Bedford homes, and the “06880” board of directors, who greeted visitors warmly and offered additional insights.

In a town filled with new construction, residents love to take a peek into homes that have stood for a century or two. There are many around — and we’ll show off 4 more great ones next year.

Totney and Rick Benson, admiring the Prohibition Era-bar at 209 Wilton Road. The young owners have renovated it with an eye toward its 155-year-old history.

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And speaking of “06880” activities: The 5th annual Holiday Stroll returns Saturday, December 6!

From 4 to 7 p.m., the Westport Downtown Association and “06880” present a now-traditional, action-packed and family-friendly kickoff to the holidays.

The Orphenians will sing. Santa and other characters will pose for photos. There’s a DJ, face painting, food, special deals for shoppers, and much more — including a dedication of the new WDA clock.

More details coming soon. But for now: Save the date!

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Tomorrow is Election Day. (Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Click here for information on candidates and polling places.)

Which means that on Wednesday, thousands of yard signs will be obsolete.

Most candidates do a good job of removing them, within the 48 hours required by law.

But what next?

Representative Town Meeting (RTM) members recycle theirs. Many run every 2 years; it’s a non-partisan body, so their signs just say their name and district.

Yet the signs for those running for boards and commissions — often on a ticket with others — are instantly outdated.

They might save the metal stands. The signs themselves are destined for landfill.

Unless someone has a better idea.

Can artwork be created, perhaps as a school project? Is there another use for them?

I have no idea. But “06880” can start a good discussion.

If you know a good use for thousands of suddenly useless yard signs, click “Comments” below.

Yard signs near the transfer station. Is that where they will all end up? (Photo/Matt Murray)

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Speaking of the election: Early voting ended yesterday. It was the first time in Connecticut, for local races.

After 2 weeks, 16.7% — 3,177 out of 19,020 eligible Westport voters — cast ballots.

The breakdown:

  • Democrats: 1,772 of 7,945 eligible voters (22.30%)
  • Republicans: 488 of 3,332 eligible voters (14.65%)
  • Unaffiliated: 899 of 7,588 eligible voters (11.85%)

Of course, how they voted will not be known until tomorrow night. “06880” will have the results when they are announced, some time after 8 p.m.

Lucia Scotti (left) came home yesterday from the University of Connecticut, to vote at Town Hall. She was joined by her parents, Janine and Pietro.

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Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist (and 1991 Staples High School graduate) Lysney Addario’s new film, “Love+War” — a documentary about her work in conflicts around the globe — has gotten great reviews.

On “Weekend Edition,” she spoke with NPR’s Ayesha Rascoe about the balance between her work and life. Click here to read the interview, and/or to listen. (Hat tip: Dick Lowenstein)

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The Westport Book Shop’s guest exhibitor this month is well-known artist Darcy Hicks.

Specializing in metal leaf and oil paint, she is drawn to anything that reflects aggressive light.

Hicks is the director of education at the Norwalk Art Space, which provides free art and music education to low-income students. The Westport native earned a bachelor’s in fine arts from Smith College, a master’s of education from Lesley University, and an MFA in creative writing from Fairfield University.

A reception is set for November 12 (6 p.m.). All artwork on display is available for purchase. 25% of the proceeds will be donated to the Arbor Day Foundation, which has planted half a billion trees.

Darcy Hicks, with her work at the Westport Book Shop.

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Veterans Green was packed yesterday with air-cooled car owners, their admirers — and of course, the vehicles themselves.

The 12th annual event was sponsored by the Small Car Company,

Some of the many air-cooled cars on Veterans Green. (Photo/Susan Garment)

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Drivers taking advantage of this train station spot are going to have to wait a lot longer than 15 minutes.

(Photo/John McCarthy)

Donut Crazy closed in April.

But in terms of outdated signs, this one has nothing on Jesup Green.

A sign there indicated a Minnybus stop.

Nearly 40 years after the diesel bus made its last run.

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Get your game on!

SLOBs — the Staples Service League of Boys, a hard-working and very popular organization — hosts a 3-v-3 basketball fundraiser. Proceeds go to Staples Tuition Grants — a very worthy cause for the teens — in memory of their friend Perrin Delorey.

The November 21 event (6 p.m.) includes pizza. Registration is $25 per participant; Venmo @jhgillman.

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Jeff Lea — the winningest coach in Staples boys soccer history — has just won again.

The 2nd permanent head coach — who served in 1970, then from 1978 to 2002, and won 5 state championships plus 12 FCIAC titles en route to a 357-77-42 record — will be inducted on March 7, at the Doubletree in Bristol.

Lea’s selection brings to 12 the number of Connecticut Soccer Hall of Fame inductees with Staples ties. They include Loeffler, Steve Baumann, Paul Hunter, Tim Hunter, Jim Kuhlmann, Kyle Martino, Ken Murphy, Kevin Murphy, Mark Noonan, Mike Noonan and Dan Woog.

Jeff Lea (far left), with members of the 1970 state championship team (from left): Tracy McIntosh, Fred Cantor, Neil Brickley, Steve McCoy.

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Josie McAllister took advantage of yesterday’s spectacular autumn weather to enjoy the Compo Beach jetty.

Her human friend Gwen Tutun was happy to record the moment, for “06880”‘s daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Gwen Tutun)

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And finally … that early darkness yesterday caught you by surprise, right?

It happens every year, when Daylight Savings ends justlikethat.

But don’t worry. Only 125 days until it begins again.

(“06880” is more than just a blog. We sponsor an annual house tours, 2 strolls a year, and a variety of good causes. But we can’t do it without you! Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Local business, Local politics, Real estate, Staples HS

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Roundup: Long Lots Preserve, Hemp, Traffic …

Posted on August 25, 2022 | 25 comments

The Long Lots Preserve is one step closer to reality.

But the ecologically important, sustainably sound and very natural project around the perimeter of the Westport Community Garden needs our help.

Under the direction of Lou Weinberg — and with the help of many volunteers and businesses — neglected public open space, overrun with invasive plants and pests, is being turned into a native New England environmental oasis.

The project includes the removal of non-native plants. Then comes dense planting with native trees, shrubs, wildflowers and grasses. They attract and sustain hundreds of year-round and migrating organisms. including the endangered monarch butterfly and native mason bees.

If the Long Lots Preserve gets $7,500 from at least 70 people, Sustainable Connecticut will match it with $7,500 more.

All money raised will purchase plants at wholesale cost. All deductions are tax-deductible.

Click here to donate online, and for more information. Checks can be mailed to Long Lots Preserve, 1630 Post Road East, Unit 129, Westport, CT 06880.

PS: Partners include Connecticut Audubon, Aspetuck Land Trust, Earthplace, Bartlett Tree Experts, AJ Penna & Son, Robbie Guimond, SIR Development, Southwest Conservation District, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Service Forestry Program,  Community Gardens members, many private citizens and 2 Staples High School interns.

The Long Lots preserve weed suppression team (from left0: Lou Weinberg, Darryle Kowalsky, Frank Rosen, Julie O’Grady, Andrew Coleman.

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New England Hemp Farm has transitioned from its Brooks Corner store, to an online and wholesale business.

But you can still buy its full line of products — for yourself and your pet. They’ve partnered with Earth Animal, on Post Road East.

CEO Matt Bannon says, “Since humans and their pets both have an endocannabinoid system and suffer from similar conditions such as inflammation, anxiety, autoimmune and sleep cycle issues, this is a unique opportunity to keep a local presence.”

It’s a great fit for several reasons. “Earth Animal is committed to a health and wellness philosophy for pets and humans. They’re friendly and welcoming people who allow us to provide all of our products to clients who prefer to shop in-person. And this allows us to support another business right here in town.

 

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When classes resume Tuesday, the Westport Police Department will increase traffic enforcement in school zones. Officers will look for drivers on cell phones, speeding and disregarding bus signals.

The department says: “We urge commuters to allow extra time, as they will be sharing the roads with school buses making frequent stops, as well as children who will be walking and/or biking to school. Obey the school bus laws, which include slowing down and preparing to stop for yellow flashing school bus lights and stopping for red flashing school bus lights.”

They urge parents to discuss safety with their children — and with young or inexperienced drivers at home.

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Speaking of safety:

I got 2 emails within half an hour yesterday. As Westporters return from summer trips, and we head into even busier traffic times, both are worth noting.

Shelly Sherman writes: “Please emphasize the need for cars to slow down. and stop at crosswalks on Compo Road South. More than once I’ve had to sprint across with my dogs to avoid being run over by cars speeding to ???

“This area of Westport has so many runners, walkers and bikers, it’s amazing more people haven’t been hurt. Pedestrians in crosswalks have the right of way — but I’d not want to test that theory every morning.”

Carol Sampson describes another danger, in a different part of town:

“Despite the sign saying ‘State Law Yield to Pedestrians’ at Post Road and Bay Street, it is clear from my experience today that few people actually stop. (One did, but the others whizzed by.) What is wrong with drivers in this town?”

Hmmm…let me think…

Entitled? Distracted? Selfish? What have I missed?

It’s a beautiful day. Just don’t try to cross the Post Road here. (Photo/Carol Sampson)

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Staples High School Class of 2012 graduate Sam Reiner met Mallory Silliere 2 years ago this month, on a dating app.

On their second date, he took her kayaking on the Saugatuck River. They pulled up to the Black Duck for lunch. It’s remained one of their favorite dates.

Last Saturday, Sam proposed to Mallory — on the dock behind the Duck.

A small group of family and friends helped celebrate.

Wedding plans are TBD. It may not be at everyone’s favorite dive bar. But there are still bachelor and bachelorette parties to plan …

A Black Duck proposal.

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Last month, “06880” reported on the Wings4Peace national art-and-gun safety awareness project.

Yesterday, artist Darcy Hicks provided an update. She says:

“Today marks 3 months since the Uvalde massacre. This morning, part 2 of the Wings4Peace message reminds communities everywhere to remember those children – and all children who are affected by gun violence.

“Last night, people across the country put out the second set of wings, which say ‘in America,’ making the message so far, ‘Peace in America…’

“Each month on the 24th the sentence grows, with the mission to inspire people to take action against gun violence. Art has always inspired societal change.”

For more information, click here.

Darcy Hicks’ “Wings4Peace” artwork, at the Westport Museum for History & Culture.

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Speaking of back-to-school (see above): Are you ready for winter and spring break?

Builders Beyond Borders is already planning service trips to Ecuador. To learn more, students and families are invited to a pair of open houses: this Sunday (August 28, 3:30 to 5 p.m.) and September 14 (6 to 7:30 p.m.) at the B3 office (66 Fort Point Street, Norwalk). RSVP here.

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The other day, Tricia Freeman headed down the internet rabbit hole. She ended up at a 1950 New Yorker story about Ernest Hemingway.

In the piece by Lillian Ross, the author has just arrived in New York, heading to Europe. There are 2 Westport references, starting with:

“Where I like it is out West in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, and I like Cuba and Paris and around Venice,” (Hemingway) said. “Westport gives me the horrors.”

Is that Westport, Connecticut? With so many of them in the world — and so many non-East Coast places mentioned in the quote — who knows?

But the second one narrows it down:

“Hunting is sort of a good life,” Hemingway said. “Better than Westport or Bronxville, I think.”

That’s it.

Besides his long friendship with the late author A.E. Hotchner, did Papa Hemingway have any connection at all with our town?

If you know — or think you do, click “Comments” below. And if you want to read the entire (long) New Yorker piece, click here.

A.E. Hotchner and Ernest Hemingway.

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cARTie — Connecticut’s first (and only) non-profit mobile art museum bus — bridges inequities in education and arts access across the state.

Each year, they exhibit a juried art show of diverse high school student art. It’s interactive, designed to inspire young students and families.

Several current and former Staples students have exhibited with cARTie.

This year’s event is Sunday, September 18 (3-5 p.m., Westport Museum of History & Culture). The afternoon includes “paint and sip,” live music, a silent auction and raffle, awards and food. Click here for more on cARTie.

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Yesterday’s “06880” noted the ongoing drought, and asked for photos.

Stacy Prince sent this, of the Aspetuck River at the Coleytown Road and North Avenue corner.

(Photo/Stacy Prince)

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Jonathan Prager describes today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo:

“A nifty bumblebee blissfully nestled into the blossom of a sedum spectabile sponging up its nectar. I hope you enjoy this as much as s/he enjoys it!”

(Photo/Jonathan Prager)

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And finally … as back-to-school traffic picks up, and traffic continues crazily in other parts of town (see above):

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Posted in Arts, Children, Environment, Local business, Media, Police, Transportation

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Wings4Peace Soar In Westport

Posted on July 29, 2022 | Comments Off on Wings4Peace Soar In Westport

Sandy Hook. Parkland. Buffalo.

After each new mass shooting, Americans express shock, outrage and sorrow. We think: Now something must change.

When nothing does, we wonder what we can do.

Lorie Lewis and Darcy Hicks are making wings. They want all the rest of us to make them too.

Darcy Hicks, with her “Wings4Peace.”

As communications and marketing director at the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County, Lori knows that the arts have a powerful impact on society. Theater, music and visual art have the power to get people thinking, talking — and eventually, creating change.

After the latest horror, in Uvalde, she had an idea: a nationwide art project, focused on wings.

Wings make things move. They propel us forward, safely and freely. Plus, they’re beautiful.

Lorie messaged David Hogg, the Parkland survivor and Harvard University student who has become one of the nation’s leading advocates for gun safety reform.

He loved the idea. Together, they created Wings4Peace.

The group put out a call to all Americans: “artists, non-artists, students, teachers, builders, artisans and activists.” On the 24th of each month*, from July through October, everyone is encouraged to create pieces of wing-themed public art. All 4 works will be displayed next to each other.

Each piece should incorporate special words, revealed each month on the Wings4Peace website. The first word, for July, was “peace.” The words for August are “in America.” The full message will be revealed at the end, right before the mid-term elections.

“Wings4Peace” in California …

Westport artist and longtime social justice advocate Darcy Hicks is all in.

“Social media is important,” the 1984 Staples High School graduate says. “But public art is live. It’s visual. It’s 3D. It really engages people.”

“Public art” is just that. It can appear on trees, ladders, poles,  fences, bridges, windows, yards, walls, sidewalk or rocks.

It can be any medium: a billboard, canvas, sculpture, projection, chalk or anything else.

… and Virginia.

Hicks’ work is displayed at the Westport Museum of History & Culture. She hopes local artists (and non-artists) will place their wings at spots like the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, Jesup Green, Veterans Green, beaches, public parks — wherever Westporters gather.

Among the local artists planning to join in: Miggs Burroughs.

Seeing wings all over Westport — and across America — won’t magically end gun violence. But, Darcy says, raising awareness through this project could lead to concrete action, like voter registration or letter-writing.

At the very least, she notes, “it will show kids that their community cares.”

Wings4Peace is not about taking away guns, she adds. It’s about safety.

“I haven’t met any gun owner or 2nd Amendment proponent who thinks that mass shootings are okay, or who wants children killed.

“This is a way for us to reflect, and hopefully act, in a positive way.”

*The 24th is the anniversary of the Uvalde shooting.

(“06880” is fully reader-supported. Please click here to contribute.)

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“Rally Against Regression” Draws Hundreds To Bridge

Posted on June 26, 2022 | 27 comments

For the 3rd time in less than 2 months, hundreds of residents thronged the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, to show support for reproductive rights.

(Photo/Charlie Scott)

This time, they protested what they only feared twice before. On Friday, the Supreme Court declared Roe v. Wade — for 49 years, settled law affirming a right to abortion — unconstitutional.

(Photo/Charlie Scott)

The rally marked the second time that Senator Richard Blumenthal and Congressman Jim Himes delivered forceful remarks about a woman’s right to choose to a Westport crowd.

Congressman Jim Himes speaks. Senator Richard Blumenthal and rally organizer Darcy Hicks look on. (Photo/Charlie Scott)

Other speakers included Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewiez, Governor Ned Lamont’s wife Annie, State Representative Stephanie Thomas, and DefenDemocracy rally co-organizer Darcy Hicks.

They spoke against a backdrop of flags of 193 nations — part of Westport’s annual jUNe Day celebration yesterday.

(Photo/Charlie Scott)

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker — who issued a statement yesterday affirming her commitment to protecting women’s rights to choose — was among the large crowd.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, at today’s rally. (Photo/Charlie Scott)

Protestors included men as well as women, and families with young children.

(Photo/Charlie Scott)

(Photo/David Vita)

They were all ages, too.

(Photo/David Vita)

(Photo/Charlie Scott)

Crowds gather early, on both sides of the bridge. (Drone photo/Charlie Scott)

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

(Photo/Charlie Scott)

(Drone photo/Charlie Scott)

(Photo/Charlie Scott)

Many drivers honked in support. This one had their own sign. (Photo/David Vita)

(Photo/Charlie Scott)

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Posted in Downtown, Politics

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Hundreds Rally For Abortion Rights

Posted on May 8, 2022 | 5 comments

Galvanized by news that the Supreme Court seems poised to overturn Roe v. Wade, 500 people gathered in downtown Westport today.

The crowd on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge included women and men; girls and boys; parents, grandparents and grandchildren, and Governor Lamont, Senator Blumenthal and Congressman Himes.

A portion of the crowd, near the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge. Congressman Jim Himes (center, behind the blonde woman) and Senator Richard Blumenthal (right, blue jacket) mingled with attendees.

They held signs. They chanted. They cheered when passing drivers honked in support.

They listened intently to speakers — not just politicians, but two obstetricians, and women with close experience with illegal abortions.

Educator Joy Colon addresses the crowd. Signs held up behind describe resources to help women in states with restrictive abortion laws.

Lamont — who will sign a first-in-the-nation bill protecting medical providers and patients seeking abortion care here, and expanding the type of practitioners eligible to perform abortion-related care in the state — noted that the downtown bridge is the site of many rallies. He called it “the conscience of Connecticut.”

“Keep your hands off our women, our doctors, our justice,” he warned those seeking to curtail abortion rights.

Lamont introduced State Representative Matt Blumenthal, who was a driving force behind the new Connecticut law, also spoke.

Blumenthal introduced his father. The US senator said he was “proud to be in this fight for decades.”

The crowd included many young people — including boys.

Himes said that people who “claim to be conservative want to overturn 50 years of settled law.” He praised 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker — standing at the front of the crowd — as a Republican ally. 

(From left): Governor Lamont and Senator Blumenthal listen to Congressman Jim Himes.

Rally organizer Darcy Hicks then noted that it was time for women to speak.

Rally organizer Darcy Hicks

Dr. Janet Lefkowitz — a Westport native, Staples High School graduate, and prominent OB/GYN and assistant professor at Brown University who provides abortion care in Southern states — recounted her difficult experiences in Mississippi and Alabama. She did not become a doctor to get involved in politics, she said — but it has become part of her patient care.

Fellow OB/GYN Dr. Shieva Ghofrany of Stamford said that people who are pro-choice “truly honor the living.” Noting that comprehensive sex education reduces unwanted pregnancies, she urged those who are pro-life to embrace education, maternal leave, and contraception.

Teacher and Trumbull Town Council member Joy Colon spoke of the impact of overturning Roe v. Wade on people of color. “People who look like me should not die because they don’t want to be pregnant,” she said.

(All photos/Dan Woog)

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“Today, We Are All Ukrainians”

Posted on March 5, 2022 | 10 comments

For decades, the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge and Jesup Green have been the site of political rallies.

Many are controversial: Vietnam. Iraq. Black Lives Matter.

Today’s drew more than 200 people, in a united show force. Democrats, Republicans, independents; men, women, children; Americans, Ukrainians, and immigrants centuries ago and yesterday from many other lands; a US Senator, a Congressman, and their constituents.

Congressman Jim Himes and Senator Richard Blumenthal, with constituents. One had a very pointed message. (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

All had one message: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is abhorrent.

Holding signs supporting Ukraine, denouncing Vladimir Putin, and bearing QR codes with ways to support the invaded nation, they stood quietly but purposefully.

Listening intently at Jesup Green. (Photo)Susan Woog Wagner)

The past week has shocked the globe. In nearly every nation, people have gathered to express outrage and sorrow, and show solidarity.

Senator Richard Blumenthal met Ukrainian President Valodymyr Zelensky 6 weeks ago. “Putin has badly miscalculated this man,” Blumenthal said.

Senator Richard Blumenthal addresses the crowd. (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

Blumenthal added that he told Zelensky, “Your values are America’s values. And today, we are all Ukrainians.”

Congressman Jim Himes called Russia’s invasion “something we did not think we’d see in this century, or this world. This is not a distant fight. Our parents fought against communism. Our grandparents fought against fascism. It’s time now for us to do our part.”

Many came dressed in Ukrainian colors. (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker said: “Our hearts and prayers are with the people of Ukraine as they fight for their country, their democracy and their lives. Their incredible courage and resolve, and that of President Zelensky and the Ukrainian government, has galvanized and inspired the world – and Westport.”

Other speakers included Westporter Stephan Taranko, who described the terrors his Ukrainian family felt previously at the hands of the Russian government, and Yaroslav Palylyk, president of the Westchester chapter of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America.

Some attendees noted their Ukrainian roots, or of similar heritage.

Other nations have suffered under Russian rule too. These Georgians showed solidarity on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge. (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

This was not a large demonstration, like Times Square or Berlin. It did not require the bravery of last weekend’s protests in the streets of Moscow.

But it was Westport’s way of showing that we do not live in a bubble. And of doing our part to let the Ukrainian people know that we are one town among many that stands with them.

Westport Police Chief Foti Koskinas and his daughters were at today’s rally, with a sunflower. It’s the national flower of Ukraine. (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

(Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

Darcy Hicks (shown here with her husband Josh Koskoff) helped organize today’s rally. Darcy’s brother Tyler Hicks, a Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times photographer, is chronicling the devastation.  (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

Miggs Burroughs — who is of Ukrainian descent — holds a sign he designed. The QR code opens a link for donations to help Ukrainian relief organizations. (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

(Photo/Jimmy Izzo)

The crowd on Jesup Green (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

(Photo/Ted Horowitz)

Saugatuck Elementary School students joined in too. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Westport artist Mark Yurkiw — whose parents fled the Ukraine in 1949 — decorated the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge with fabric. Blue and yellow are Ukraine’s national colors. (Photo/Dan Woog)

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Preach! (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

(Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Politics

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Waiting Anxiously: Lynsey Addario And Tyler Hicks’ Loved Ones

Posted on February 25, 2022 | 3 comments

As the news from Ukraine grows increasingly dire, the world relies on journalists and photographers to report what is happening.

Two of the best photojournalists are the New York Times’ Pulitzer Prize winners Lynsey Addario and Tyler Hicks. Both are — incredibly — Staples High School graduates, just 3 classes apart (1991 and ’88).

They’ve reported from the globe’s most dangerous spots: Afghanistan, Iraq, Yemen, and many more. This may be their most treacherous assignment yet.

Both are there because they want to be. But that does not make things any easier for their relatives here in Westport.

“It’s very tough,” admits Camille Addario, Lynsey’s mother. “To think that this fearless little girl has been all over the world, documenting tragedies.

“‘It’s what I do. Anything can happen anywhere,’ she always says. So I can only pray and support her, and hope that she gets home safely to her husband and 2 boys, and everyone who cares for her. The last thing she needs is guilt from her mother and sisters.”

Lauren, Lynsey, Lisa and Lesley Addario.

Lynsey FaceTimed Camille on Wednesday. She said the Times had put her up in a safe hotel.

However, Camille says, yesterday she moved to a more perilous spot.

“That’s Lynsey,” her mother says. “She’s right there.”

Camille does not watch much coverage of the conflict. Instead, she says, “I hope and pray that my mother is looking down, and has her hand on Lynsey’s shoulder. She’s always been her protector.”

Lynsey’s grandmother Louise Bonito died in November 2020 — at 107.

Louise “Nonnie” Bonito, surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Camille is in the front row, second from left.

Camille calls herself “blessed” by the support of family and friends. She has received many calls and texts. She thanks everyone for thinking of her and Lynsey.

And, she says, “like everyone, we’re just waiting for this awful thing to end.”

Waiting for trains out of the city at the main station in Kramatorsk yesterday. (Photo/Lynsey Addario for The New York Times)

Not far from Camille’s home, artist Darcy Hicks worries too. Her brother is Tyler Hicks.

“My mother, being an artist, brought me and her brother up with imagery. What you see in front of you, and how it makes you feel — that’s just true.

“So I think he and I both found ways — very different ways. — to express ourselves through imagery.

Tyler Hicks

“People are surprised when I tell them that Tyler is really not at all political, partly because he’s my brother [Darcy is active in progressive politics] and partly because he’s always covering warfare, which is of course politics.

“But he truly goes in with no preconceptions about the story he’s going to tell. He can’t go in looking for some piece of evidence that proves his point, ignoring the stuff that challenges his ideals.

“He just looks through the lens and shows us what is really going on. Imagine if we could all communicate that way. Seeing the gray, instead of finding a corner and an enemy.

“I’m very proud of him. But I will wring his neck when he gets out of there. Today, the world feels very unsustainable.”

In 2015, Camille Addario was interviewed by Time magazine about being the mother of a “war photographer.” Click here to read.)

Families boarding evacuation trains in Kramatorsk yesterday evening, bound for Kyiv and Lviv, the largest city in western Ukraine. (Photo/Tyler Hicks for New York Times)

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People. Politics. Planet.

Posted on October 1, 2020 | 2 comments

People. Politics. Planet.

Everyone talks about those topics. Soon, a pop-up exhibition will bring those controversial topics downtown Westport — and everyone’s screen, anywhere in the world.

The show — called “2020: People Politics Planet” — opens at 23 Jesup Road (next to Green & Tonic) this Saturday (October 3). It will be available online too, at www.2020pppwestport.com.

Local artists Amy Kaplan, Darcy Hicks and Janine Brown organized the exhibit, which includes artists from all over southern Connecticut. They wanted a forum for artists to be heard on themes like climate change, political division, racial oppression and COVID-19 — and a place where others could contribute to the conversation.

2020 Collage #3 (Kerry Long): photography, film scans.

“Throughout history, artists have helped society to make sense of the world,” the organizers say.

“Artwork creates opportunities for communities to engage in safe dialogue. Some of us need the escape of beauty, and others need to feel the power of bold expression.

“This exhibit is a response to the need for humanity and closeness during a time of isolation and uncertainty when it has become clear to many of us how connected we really are. We turn to the arts to help us make sense of all that we are witnessing and experiencing, to teach us things we do not know, and cannot put into words easily.”

“As we confront the realities of the world we have created, now is the time to engage in productive conversations that create understanding among each other. Sometimes art can be a starting point for difficult conversations, and it is the hope of the organizers that this exhibit will show viewers something that is thought provoking or recognizable, even though we may have different experiences.”

“Listen BLM” (kHyal): assemblage with 100% recycled and upcycled objects,

The Drew Friedman Community Arts Center and Artists Collective of Westport sponsor the exhibit. The Westport Library is involved too, planning additional programming to continue the conversation.

Over 140 works were submitted; 35. Another 32 are on the website. Artists include:

  • Alicia Cobb
  • Dereje Tarrant
  • Guy Sealey
  • Jerri Graham
  • Kerry Long
  • kHyal
  • Louise Cadoux
  • Margaret Roleke
  • Mia Lipstick
  • Steven Parton
  • Trace Burroughs
  • Liz Squillace.

The gallery will be open Thursdays (2 to p.m.), and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (12 to 6 p.m.) through November 30. Masks are required, and capacity will be limited.

To continue the conversation: Comment on Instagram (@2020PPPwestport). Or create your own art, and tag it: #2020PPPwesetport.

“America is Full of Plastic” (Louise Cadoux): Mixed media sculpture.

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, People, Politics

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After The Protests: Here’s How To Help

Posted on June 4, 2020 | 27 comments

Sunday’s “United Against Racism” protest on Jesup Green was powerful and important.

But many of the several hundred attendees left feeling helpless. What can we actually do, besides march and speak? they wondered.

Darcy Hicks heard them. the co-organizer of the event — and a longtime social justice advocate — says, “I’m a big believer in protests and rallies. But not if they just stop there.”

On Monday, she went to work. She compiled a list of ways to help.

Downtown Bridgeport — there’s a lot going on.(Photo/Gary Pivot)

She focused on Bridgeport because she and her husband — attorney Josh Koskoff — both work there.

“We love the people,” Darcy says. “It’s a vibrant city with amazing history – yet 40% of children live below poverty level.

“Having a foot in both Westport and Bridgeport makes me realize that if all of us had that experience, we would think about their needs more. It’s hard to remember people in need of you don’t know them, or even see them.”

So, Darcy says, in addition to rallies and protests — or instead of, if you are concerned about COVID-19 — here is what you can do:

1. Drive to Bridgeport. It’s not far. It’s part of our extended neighborhood — and it’s important to interact in any way we can.

If you’ve been braving Starbucks, go to Bean N Batter instead one day. Treat yourself to waffles — available for curbside pickup. BONUS: It’s owned by Staples grad Will Hamer.

Instead of going to Dunkin’, surprise your family with a box of the real thing from Daybreak Doughnuts. Tired of the usual takeout? Wait until you feast on Brazilian churrascaria from Pantanal! 

2. Online shoppers: Here’s a better way to support your habit! https://www.fastcompany.com/…/7-black-owned-businesses-to-s…

3. Give. I know, some people say it’s inappropriate to ask for money these days. But for those of us fortunate enough to fill our carts with 700 rolls of toilet paper, we can spare something. The ACLU is always a good place to donate. So are https://bailproject.org and www.campaignzero.org.

Here’s a list of state and local organizations I’ve compiled, with the help of BPT Generation Now! (an amazing group of people, who are making great changes in Bridgeport):

Black Lives Matter
CTCore
Citywide Youth Coalition
Hearing Youth Voices
Students 4 Educational Justice
Connecticut Students 4 a Dream
Make the Road CT
Adam J. Lewis Academy
Neighborhood Studios

Some very happy Adam J. Lewis preschoolers.

4. Join these Facebook groups:
https://www.facebook.com/…/Justice-for-Jayson-155481706457…/
https://www.facebook.com/noahcalebfreedom/
https://www.facebook.com/nhvcrb/

5. When the quarantine is lifted and you find yourself filling your day back up with exercise classes, pick a day to volunteer for the Bridgeport Public Schools. They need visiting readers! https://www.bridgeportedu.net/SVAB.

Or volunteer to teach English to women at Mercy Learning Center. Or help kids with their homework at The Caroline House.

There’s so much more that can be done. If you know of more ways to close the socioeconomic gap that exacerbates racism and inequality in this area, please click “Comments” below.

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Posted in Economy, Education, Organizations, Politics

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Hundreds Unite Against Racism

Posted on May 31, 2020 | 34 comments

Jesup Green — Westport’s historic site for anti-war, gun violence and other protests — drew several hundred people of all ages to another, this afternoon.

Organized in less than 48 hours following the national reaction to the death of George Floyd, it was as passionate as any in the past. But — coming in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic — it also marked the first large gathering here since mid-March. Masks were mandatory. Speeches were short.

But the message was powerful.

Organizer Darcy Hicks noted “the tension between wanting to stay home and keep the community safe, and the bubbling need to do something.”

RTM member Andrew Colabella and civic activist Darcy Hicks.

Police Chief Foti Koskinas read yesterday’s statement from his department condemning Floyd’s death at the hands of Minneapolis officers.

Then he went further.

Police Chief Foti Koskinas (far right) with, from left, TEAM Westport chair Harold Bailey and 1st Selectman Jim Marpe. The town’s other 2 selectman were there too.

He apologized personally to the Floyd family, for the way their loved one was treated by police.

“I am never embarrassed, and always proud, to wear this uniform,” Koskinas said. “But Mr. Floyd’s death was devastating to this department.”

He then introduced Harold Bailey, TEAM Westport chair. The head of the town’s multicultural committee said that for every George Floyd, there are “thousands of other victims, in the dark and out of sight.” Indifference, he said, is just another way of sanctioning such acts.

Bailey added that TEAM Westport is partnering with the police, Westport Library, Interfaith Clergy Association and schools, on community forums and projects.

Hicks spoke last. “As a white, privileged person, I am complicit in the death of George Floyd and others,” she said.

“I have not always been engaged in fighting racism and economic inequality.” It is not enough to be “not a racist,” she said. “People have to do things.”

 

The protest ended with a long moment of silence: 4 minutes, 23 seconds. But, Hicks noted, that was only half the amount of time George Floyd’s neck was pinned underneath a police officer’s knee.

The silence seemed to go on forever.

And it spoke volumes.

(Photo/David Vita)

(Photo/David Vita)

(All photos/Dan Woog unless otherwise noted)

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Posted in Downtown, Police, Politics

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