Tag Archives: flooding

Roundup: Charrette Postponed, Library Delayed, Eversource Property …

Posted on February 6, 2025 | 2 comments

Tonight’s charrette for the proposed Westport public safety complex has been postponed, due to the weather forecast.

The new date is February 25 (7 to 9 p.m., Westport Senior Center).

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In addition, the Westport Library will delay its opening today until 2 p.m. — unless conditions warrant a closing.

Click on the Library’s website for updates.

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In yesterday’s story about the 2024 Grand List, “06880” included a list of Westport’s top 10 taxpayers.

As it always does, Connecticut Light & Power (aka Eversource) was in first place.

We noted that much of their property consists of utility poles.

It does. But that’s not the full story.

Chris Swan — Eversource’s now retired director of transmission siting (and 1967 Staples High School graduate) — says that the largest item in their property portfolio is the double set of underground 345,000-volt transmission cables, installed in 2009.

They run from the Fairfield border, mostly under the Post Road, traversing town into Norwalk across from Whole Foods, en route from Bridgeport to the Norwalk substation at the junction of Routes 7 and 123.

Eversource also owns the 4 substations in town. The newest (the Sherwood Substation) was built on New Creek Road adjacent to the Greens Farms train station in 2009.

Chris adds: “Most of the company’s facilities are overhead poles and wires. But the biggest taxable valuation is in the underground transmission lines and substations.”

Eversource’s Main Street substation, behind Coffee An’.

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Flood mitigation is an issue of importance to nearly every Westporter.

We can always learn more about it.

This month, the Western Connecticut Council of Governments (WestCOG) hosts two Flood Mitigation Assistance information sessions.

The first is in person: February 11 (6 to 8 p.m., Stamford Government Center, 888 Washington Boulevard; click here to register.

The second is virtual (February 27, 6 to 8 p.m.; click here for the Zoom link; click here to register).

Questions? Email jreelick@westcog.org.

Floods like these are becoming more prevalent. (Photo/Geralyn Rella Breig)

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“Native Gardens” — the Westport Country Playhouse comedy that runs February 18 to March 8 — is about fences and neighbors.

In the spirit of community-building, several special events are planned. They include:

Taste of Tuesday (February 18, 6 p.m.): Reception pairing food from Harvest Restaurant,plus wine. Exclusive for “Taste of Tuesday” season ticket holders. Click here for information.

Together at the Table (February 19, 5:30 p.m.): For $15, a family or group* enjoys a communal pizza dinner and casual conversation before the 7 p.m. show. Call 203-227-4177 for reservations.

Pride Night (February 20, 6 p.m.): Pre-show cocktail party for the LGBTQ+ community and friends, including a limited open bar and appetizers from Gruel Britannia. Use code GARDENSPRIDE online or call 203-227-4177 for reservations.

Opening Night Post-Show Reception (February 22): Celebrate with the cast, crew and creative team.

Sunday Symposium (after the February 23 3 p.m. show): No ticket necessary — open to all.
Stay tuned for an update on the speakers! No ticket necessary — open to all.

Open Caption (March 2, 3 p.m.): Deaf and hard of hearing audiences enjoy the performance while watching a digital screen with actors’ dialogue.

Backstage Pass (after the March 5 2 p.m. performance): Learn how the technical staff brought “Native Gardens” to life. No ticket necessary — open to all.

Thursday Talkback )after the March 6 7 p.m. performance: Q&A with cast members. No ticket necessary — open to all.

For more information on “Native Gardens,” click here.

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Youngsters interested in sailing — and parents who want their kids to learn – are invited to a “Junior Sailing Bagel Bash” (March 1, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Cedar Point Yacht Club).

No experience is necessary. The Cedar Point program is open to all junior sailors — members and non-members, beginners to experienced.

Questions? Email emelnichok@gmail.com.

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Speaking of kids: Long QT Syndrome — a potentially life-threatening heart condition — affects 1 in 2,000 children. Early detection can help prevent serious complications.

Connecticut Children’s and Hearts in Harmony are sponsoring free EKG screenings this Saturday (February 8, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Westport Specialty Care Center, 191 Post Road West).

Children with abnormal EKG results will receive expedited follow-up appointments with Connecticut Children’s cardiologists.

The event includes kid-friendly activities, a fashion show, food and more.

For more information, contact Dr. Robyn Matloff at 917-439-8941.

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Attention, Westport Library e-book and audiobook users: With a transition from CloudLibrary to Libby, patrons can access more digital titles than ever.

The transition takes place March 18. CloudLibrary. The last date for holds to be placed through CloudLibrary is February 15. (See below for important dates and FAQs.)

The Library will offer online and in-person tutorials from March 18 to March 21 (3 to 4 p.m), to help users with the transition. An “Anyone Can Use” class focused on the Libby app is set for the Library on March 19 (11 a.m. to noon).

For more information, click here.

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The Westport Board of Education Policy Committee’s next meeting is February 12 (9 a.m., Town Hall Room 201A).

Discussion items include:

Second reading of possible revisions to the suicide prevention and intervention policy.
First reading of possible revisions to existing policies involving the Americans with Disabilities Act, non-discrimination, and sex-based discrimination and harassment.
First reading of a possiible new policy on transportation.
Discussion of a policy on survey of students/student privacy.

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Westport police made no custodial arrests between January 29 and February 5.

Police issued these citations:

Traveling unreasonably fast: 8 citations
Speeding: 6
Operating an unregistered motor vehcile: 3
Failure to renew registrations: 3
Texting while driving: 2
Failure to obey stop sign: 2
Failure to obe traffic control signals: 2
Reckless driving: 1
Failure to yield to pedestrian: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension:
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1

Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks. Even those pedestrians (and crosswalks) that are less visible.

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Longtime Westporter and noted writer Barry Tarshis died peacefully at home Tuesday, with his family by his side. He was 86.

His obituary says, “He endured 2 years of brutal health challenges by drawing on a bottomless wellspring of optimism, charm, kindness, generosity, and a weak spot for mediocre jokes. Five days before he died, confined to his bed and afflicted with late-stage Alzheimer’s disease, he was asked by his hospice nurse if he was comfortable. ‘I make a decent living,’ he replied.”

He grew up in Pittsburgh. His father Max was a musician who instilled in Barry a lifelong love of music. Even into his final months, Barry retained his ability to play Bill Evans on the piano, sing along with Pavarotti, and harmonize with Elton John and Jim Croce.

Barry overcame his childhood shyness to star in his high school production of “Guys and Dolls,” play basketball, and capture the heart of his future wife, Karen Ross, who he began dating at the age of 15.

After leaving University of Pittsburgh 1 credit short of graduation, Barry traveled across Europe on a motorbike, appeared as an extra in “La Dolce Vita,” lived on an Israeli kibbutz, and moved into a Greenwich Village hovel to embark on a career as a writer.

After marrying Karen and serving in the U.S. Army in New Mexico, he settled into a 30-plus year career as a freelance author. He wrote a dozen books and hundreds of articles for the New York Times, Playbill, Playboy, Town & Country, and Tennis, among other publications.

Herallied with Chris Evert, walked on hot coals with Tony Robbins, traveled to India, Russia, Colombia and Micronesia, and interviewed a mystic who specialized in casting love spells.

He taught writing, led communications seminars for business leaders, and created the grammar and writing website Communications Fitness.

His family said, “The shaping forces of Barry’s career were an eagerness to learn and his genuine curiosity about and respect for all kinds of people — from tennis champions to the students who took his writing classes at public schools in the South Bronx. He brought these same qualities into his most prized creative endeavor, his family.

“While most fathers dream of their children achieving fame and fortune, Barry’s oft-stated parenting goal for Lauren and Andrew was to ‘raise children he would want to hang out with when they were older.’ They wanted to hang out with him, as often as possible.

“Well into his last weeks, he woke up each day with a renewed sense of life’s possibilities, deep gratitude, and an eagerness to uplift his family, his friends, and anyone lucky enough to cross his path.”

Barry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Karen; children Lauren (David Dreyfuss) and Andrew; grandchildren Leo Dreyfuss (Rebecca Goldman), Jeremy Dreyfuss (Shira), Dylan and Valerie Dreyfuss; Lily, Evi, and Ruby Tarshis, and his sister Carole Cohen.

A private celebration-of-life is planned. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Foundation, or tell someone a mediocre joke.

Barry Tarshis

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Right after Monday’s snowfall, Pam Kesselman captured these Soundview Drive runners, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Snow, sleet and rain is predicted today.

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming flood mitigation workshops (story above):

(“06880” would love to be flooded with contributions. But even a trickle helps. Please click here to join the torrent. Or be the first. Thank you!

2 Comments

Posted in Children, Education, Environment, Library, Obituaries, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged Barry Tarshis, Board of Education, Cedar Point Yacht Club, Connecticut Children's Specialty Care Center, Eversource, flooding, Westport Emergency Medical Services, Westport Fire Department

Pics Of The Day #2679

Posted on August 18, 2024 | 2 comments

The warnings grew sterner as the morning wore on:

First “rain.” Then “heavy rain.” Then “Flash floods.” And the blaring alert: “Possible life-threatening flooding.”

It wasn’t that bad — mostly. Other parts of Connecticut got whacked worse, including a bridge collapse on Route 34 in Monroe.

But there was some intense flooding around town, particularly around the Saugatuck River in the northern sections. The photos below were shared on social media.

NOTE: The rain has eased, but the flooding may not be over. The next high tide is 11:05 p.m. — and it’s a full moon.

Geralyn Rella Brieg has lived here since 1998. She said this was the worst flooding in her yard since 2007.

Jack Whittle wrote: “The Saugatuck is high at Lees Pond. Those are swans enjoying my lower yard, next to my Adirondack chairs. The pond has an overspill dam. It must be roaring down there.”

Anandi Subramanian Wimmer posted this image, of the west branch of the Saugatuck River.

Deadman Brook, downtown (Photo/Sal Liccione)

2 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Pic of the Day, Weather

Tagged flooding

Roundup: 1 Glendinning Place, Our Town Crier, Floodplain Management …

Posted on January 25, 2024 | 13 comments

After input from neighbors, developers of 1 Glendinning Place have reduced the scope of plans for the property off Weston Road (mostly recently, offices of Bridgewater Associates).

The previous one had 14 units. The new plan includes 10 free-standing units, of 3,000 square feet each.

Two will house special needs affordable residents. There are 3 units in each. One of the 6 will be reserved for a live-in supervisor.

Developer David Waldman notes that this is similar to supportive housing at 136 Riverside Avenue.

The change at 1 Glendinning Place will allow Westport to obtain more 8-30g (affordable housing) moratorium points.

The next step: application to, and hearing with, the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Artists’ rendering shows 10 proposed homes (green) for 1 Glendinning Place. Click on or hover over to enlarge.

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Our Town Crier and Westport Marketplace have joined forces.

Now there’s one place for over 800 local listings — restaurants, retail, realtors, services (business, personal and home), and more — along with statewide information for categories like “Pizza Trail” and Valentine’s Day (places to eat and stay; things to do).

Betsy Pollak masterminds both. Click here to see; click here to sign up for the Westport Marketplace newsletter (monthly, plus special editions).

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The Westport Progress Report on Floodplain Management is complete.

It is prepared annually to enable Westport residents to receive a 10% reduction in their flood insurance. Flood Insurance is offered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to communities that participate in the Community Rating System. Click here to read the plan.

Municipalities that participate in the CRS are ranked from 1 (highest) to 10. Classifications warrant what flood insurance rate reductions are offered. Westport’s ranking is 8.

Annual reports are required identifying how Westport is implementing the Western Connecticut Council of Governments Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan. Click here for the Westport report.

Local flooding is becoming more prevalent. This was the scene in a back yard earlier this month. (Photo/Meghan Norris)

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Alert reader Bob Mitchell writes:

“I recently enrolled in USPS Informed Delivery, a service that tells you every day what mail is being delivered to you.

“I was mildly interested until last Friday, when I was informed that I was receiving 6pieces of mail.

“The mailbox was empty. Since that day, none of the indicated pieces of mail have shown up. (The service shows you pictures of the mail pieces, so I know they haven’t arrived.)

“In addition, I had ordered 2 boxes of COVID test kits. On Friday I was informed by USPS in great detail the progress of the delivery of these kits, culminating in notice that the packages were delivered to my mailbox. I have never seen these packages either.

“I have reported the non-deliveries, but have had no response from USPS. I wonder if any others have had similar incidents.”

So, “06880” readers: Do you have USPS Informed Delivery? Have you experienced non-delivery? What are your options if you report them, but never hear back? Please click “Comments” to help Bob.

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This week’s League of Women Voters of Westport annual “Pie & Politics” event at Pizza Lyfe featured Westport’s 3 state legislators: Senator Ceci Maher, and Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson.

They updated attendees on issues expected to be debated this year in Hartford, including funding for voter education about early voting, support for polling staff, and the ballot initiative to amend the state constitution to offer no-excuse absentee voting. All 3 spoke passionately about protecting and expanding voters’ rights, and the importance of taking steps to improve voter turnout.

The discussion also included climate change, whether Connecticut should adopt an electric vehicle mandate to go into effect in 2035, and other initiatives to mitigate climate change and train a workforce for clean energy jobs.

The legislators spoke to the importance of looking at solar, geothermal, heat pumps, reskilling, and addressing housing shortages to attract clean energy companies and their employees.

Other topics included mental health policies, transportation, housing and education.

From left: State legislators Dominique Johnson, Jonathan Steinberg and Ceci Maher at Pizza Lyfe.

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The Westport Rotary Club heard an animated talk by Tommy Greenwald at this week’s lunch meeting.

Of course, anyone who knows Greenwald — the 1978 Staples High School soccer state champion/father of 3 sports-playing sons/Broadway marketer/young adult author knows that he lives his life in an animated way.

Greenwald writes often about the hyper-competitiveness and pressure of youth sports — for children and their parents. He told the Rotarians that his goal is to bring fun back into that stressful world, and show youngsters that the path to a well-balanced life does not totally revolve around the success of a team, or individual achievement on the field or court.

Tommy Greenwald (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between January 17 and 24.

A woman was arrested after she found a $550 MoneyGram on the ground, endorsed it using her real name and address, and deposited it in her bank account. She was afforded the opportunity to reimburse the victim but refused, and was charged with larceny.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

Traveling unreasonably fast: 5 citations
Traveling too fast for conditions: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Operating a motor vehicle while texting: 2
Distracted driving: 2
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Failure to renew registration: 2
Reckless driving: 1
Speeding: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Failure to drive right: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
Failure to reinstate license within 60 days: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without proper load cover: 1
Operating a motor vehicle in violation of license class: 1

Failure to secure a load can lead to a citation.

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Sure, it’s a church.

But the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport is the site of a “barn dance” this Sunday (January 28, after the service at approximately 11:30 a.m., until around 3 p.m.).

Billy Fisher will call the dance, with live music from Wry Bred. The event includes Cake Carousel and pizza.

Everyone is invited: all ages, all levels of experience. A recommendation donation of $5 per person, $15 per family covers entertainment costs.

Questions? Email mcelroy.cathy@gmail.com.

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MoCA’s 2nd Artisan Market (February 11, noon to 4 p.m.) features handcrafted items: bespoke jewelry, textiles, fine art and gourmet foods.

It’s a chance to purchase unique gifts before Valentine’s Day, while supporting local creators.

Staples musical sensation Ethan Walmark will entertain.

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Also at MoCA: Jazz musician Anthony Hervey, in concert February 27.

He has impressed audiences worldwide as a sideman for Christian McBride, Jon Baptiste, Michael Bublé and Wynton Marsalis (who called him a “beautiful trumpet player of first magnitude.”

He’ll be joined by saxophonist Markus Howell, pianist Isaiah J. Thompson, bassist Russell Hall and drummer Miguel Russell. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Anthony Hervey

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Patricia (“Patty”) Palmer died Sunday. She was 79.

The Bridgeport native graduated from St. Vincent’s School of Radiology in 1964. She worked at Norwalk Hospital for over 40 years, first as a registered X-ray technician and then as a manager.

Patty lived in Westport for over 50 years, and raised 2 daughters here. She was involved in their Parent Teacher Association, and led their Brownie and Girl Scout troops.

She enjoyed reading at Compo and Burying Hill beaches, taking a wide range of local classes, and was a regular walker at Sherwood Island State Park.

Her favorite activities were dancing and travel. She met her husband David on the dance floor. They spent over 30 years traveling and sightseeing, especially in Cape Cod and the Caribbean.

Patty is survived by her husband of 35 years; daughters Kelley Swift and Megan Tibball (Jeff), all of Fairfield, and grandchildren Jordan and Brendan Tibball, and Jackson Swift.

Her family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the nurses and caregivers at Bridgeport Hospital who took good care of her, and made her final time peaceful and comfortable.

Visiting hours are Monday (January 29, 4 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home). A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Luke Church on Tuesday (January 30, 11 a.m.).

Patty Palmer

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All winter long, dogs are allowed on Compo Beach — and in the water.

These goldens enjoy the opportunity, oblivious they are the subjects of today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Deborah Herbertson)

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And finally … Melanie — the one-named, much-loved singer/guitarist/ songwriter of the late ’60s and early ’70s — died Thursday. She was 76. Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)

(Real estate news? Police reports? Obituaries? Whatever you’re looking for, it’s here at “06880.” This is your hyper-local blog — and it’s reader-supported. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

13 Comments

Posted in Environment, Local business, Obituaries, Police, Real estate

Tagged David Waldman, flooding, League of Women Voters Westport, MoCA Westport, One Glendinning, Our Town Crier, Tommy Greenwald, Westport Marketplace, Westport Rotary Club

Swamped Saturday: Part 2

Posted on January 13, 2024 | 1 comment

Saugatuck Island (Photo/Howard Edelstein)

Black Duck parking lot (Photo/Ian Warburg)

Amidst the floods: a rainbow over Parker Harding Plaza. (Photo/David Waldman)

1 Comment

Posted in Downtown, Weather

Tagged Black Duck, flooding, Parker Harding Plaza

[OPINION] Another Long Lots Worry: Water

Posted on September 24, 2023 | 15 comments

Peter J. Swift has lived in Westport since 1997. A master mariner, he spent 25 years at sea — including command of supertankers and liquefied natural gas ships.

He then spent over 25 years in senior shore management in international shipping, and his own maritime consultancy.

Peter is involved in international maritime charities. He is also a member of the Westport Community Gardens and Long Lots Preserve, and president of the Harvest Commons Condominium Association. He writes:

There has been a lot of “water under the bridge” on the Long Lots School rebuild. Here are my observations, after speaking with local residents, civil engineers and architects., and attending many Long Lots School Building Committee meetings.

This is a much broader issue than Long Lots School.

Peter Swift

This serious problem affects all of Westport. 34% of all properties in Westport have a 26% chance of being seriously impacted by flooding.

We love our wet and rocky town. Yet brooks and watersheds, combined with rock, is a fact we have to plan for.

Obviously, some areas need special attention. The area from Long Lots Elementary School to Long Island Sound along Muddy Brook is a very serious one.

Here are a few examples.

When the lower ball field was constructed, despite engineering calculations to the contrary, considerable water ingress into Muddy Brook was experienced by neighbors.

During a 3-year delayed construction on a neighboring road, considerable increase of surface water was noted by neighbors .

Retention basins were added only after construction.

Peter Swift says, “the site is flooded because retention basin’s were put in after construction was delayed for years. Neighbors at lower elevations are left to manage storm water overflow.”

There is still concern whether this works, because it was designed only for a 25-year storm.

Recent drainage and sewer work in areas near Long Lots School revealed underwater streams, with a flow that should not be disturbed.

It’s no surprised this was once good farm land. There was water all around.

Neighbors near Long Lots report that their sump pumps run constantly. Some have 2, both running constantly.

The Long Lots retention pond often overflows the dry stone wall, which marks the boundary of Long Lots Elementary School …

Because big houses are being constructed on plots that had smaller houses, the 25-year storm standard does not work. It must be improved.

I understand that the standard planning is for each construction to retain on site the estimated water run off for a 25-year storm. There are many instances in town where this has proved to be inadequate.

In turn stressing Muddy Brook as it runs downstream to Long Island Sound. (Photos courtesy of Peter Swift)

Can Westport not consider a higher standard, especially for large taxpayer funded projects?

We all live in Westport, and pay taxes. Even if we do not us our education system, we love and support it.

Why is there such a rush to get spades in the ground within a year ?

The school is 50 years old, and has had many extensions. Let’s get this right.

Can we not allow our professional engineers time to study this before decisions are made?

Not give them a decision to work with. The cart is before the horse.

This would allow more detailed study of the long-term problems of building on ball fields and community gardens which absorb surface water, and include wetlands.

(“06880” covers all aspects of the Long Lots renovation project — and all other local news. By supporting this blog, you support local journalism. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

15 Comments

Posted in Education, Environment

Tagged flooding, Long Lots Elementary School, Muddy Brook, Peter Swift

Pics Of The Day #2336

Posted on September 10, 2023 | Comments Off

Scenes from today’s downpour, and the flash floods that followed …

Post Road …

… and turning out of Playhouse Square … (Photos/Susan Garment)

… and Kneads Bakery (Photo/Michael Chait)

Comments Off on Pics Of The Day #2336

Posted in Local business, Pic of the Day, Weather

Tagged flooding, Kneads Bakery, Post Road East

Roundup: Flooding, BMS Earthquake Help, Graffiti …

Posted on March 4, 2023 | 8 comments

Today’s trash pick-up at Elaine Road has been canceled, due to predicted bad weather. A new date will be announced soon.

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The coastal flood warning — in effect until noon today — is real. Here was the scene earlier this morning at Canal Road on Saugatuck Shores:

(Photo/Gene Borio)

And high tide was still 2 hours away.

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When the Bedford Middle School community learned that Heba, one of their popular cafeteria workers, had relatives in Syria — and was still waiting for news after the earthquake — they swung into action.

In just a few days, donations of coats, sweaters, shoes, scarves, hats, blankets (and backpacks filled to the brim) poured in. Many of the gifts were new, or almost new.

Yesterday, Dan Barberio — a physical education teacher and member of the Spirit Leadership Team, who helped organize the effort — packed his van. He delivered it all to a mosque in New Haven, for shipment to Syria today.

Congratulations, BMS, for your important, school-wide effort.

Dan Barberio (far left) and Bedford Middle School students, with some of the collection for Syrian earthquake victims.

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A reader found new racist graffiti — this time, on the picnic tables at Compo’s South Beach. She reported it to Westport Police.

Previous racist graffiti at the state boat launch underneath I-95 was also reported, and immediately removed.

Racist raffiti at the state boat launch. (Photo/Nathan Selsky)

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Danbury countered Staples’ fast start with a faster finish — and excellent defense — at last night’s boys basketball FCIAC championship.

The Hatters’ 69-53 win, at Wilton High School, denied the Wreckers their first league championship since 1963, and their first ever on the court. (The previous title came by having the best record.)

Danbury — seeded 3rd in the tourney — had beaten #4 Staples 63-54, in the regular season.

But the blue-and-whites’ superb season continues. First-year coach Dave Goldshore’s squad — now 17-6 — begins action in the state Division II on Tuesday.

Ranked 7th, they host #26 Manchester. Tipoff is 6 p.m.

The 2023 Staples High School boys basketball team.

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Wakeman Town Farm is getting a jump on spring.

Among its just-announced events:

Old-Fashioned Maple Syrup Boiling (Saturday, March 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; free). Farmers Ryan Brunelle and Sharon Stone boil maple sap into pure maple syrup from trees tapped on the Farm. Ask questions about tapping your own trees, and checking out WTF’s homestead-sized evaporator.

Learn About Chicken Keeping (March 27, April 24, May 8): A 3-session series for the novice; take 1, 2 or all 3. At the end, attendees of all 3 sessions can “adopt” 2 of the chicks raised on the farm, and bring home a starter pack with feeder, waterer, wood shavings and 5 pounds of organic feed. $60 per session; $50 for starter pack. Click here for more information, and to register.

Lamb socials (selected dates, March 31 through May 1; $20): Snuggle and hold lambs, to socialize the new flock; watch them play. All ages welcome. Click here for details and registration.

Home Vegetable Gardening: Dos and Don’ts (Monday, April 10, 7 p.m.). WTF farmer Sharon Stone describes how the Farm prepares for the growing season, past mistakes they’ve learned from, and the importance of maintenance and management. All ages and gardening levels are welcome. Click here to register.

Lunch and Learn to Cook an Italian Meal with Chef Vita (May 16, 11 a.m.; $125). On the menu: orecchiette pasta. Click here to register.

In addition, registration for spring programs begins online next Friday (March 10, 9 a.m.). Click here for details.

Down at the farm … (Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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Staples Player alum Remy Laifer has joined the national tour of “Fiddler on the Roof.” He’ll play Mendel.

The Class of 2017 graduate will also understudy for Motel — a role he played in Players’ production of the same show. (Hat tips: David Roth and Kerry Long)

Remy Laifer

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Save the date, for one of our town’s best (and most delicious) fundraisers:

Taste of Westport returns May 10 (6 p.m., the Inn at Longshore).

The 17th annual event — featuring fantastic food, wine and spirits from more than 2 dozen of the area’s best vendors, plus live music ad a silent auction — benefits CLASP Homes. The non-profit provides homes, support and services to adults with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Tickets are $125 per person from March 10 until April 9, then $150 until they sell out. Click here to purchase. For sponsorship opportunities, email rhammond@clasphomes.org or call 203-226-7895, ext. 144.

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NBC Connecticut’s “CT Live” featured a fascinating interview yesterday about the Westport Country Playhouse.

In just 5 minutes, cultural associate and archivist Bruce Miller gave a history of the famed space; described the stage, sets and costumes, and added a plea to support live theater everywhere, in these post-pandemic days.

Click here to see.

Screenshot from “CT Live.”

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Rita Leyden died Thursday, at 85. She and her husband Tom — who died in 2020 — lived in Westport from 1965 through 2019.

Her son Tommy posted this tribute on Facebook:

“We mourn today because Mom has gone home, but we’re also celebrating and giving thanks for how fortunate we were to absorb her spirit, wisdom and love for 85 years.

“Where will I go for my fill-up of confidence and reassurance? A selfish reflection, but I’m not alone in saying Rita Leyden was the queen of providing a boost of conviction when you needed it, sometimes right after she tactfully told you there was room for improvement.

“Mom was a woman of extraordinary elegance and faith, a rare fusion of class and humility. Her virtuous essence was pure, her love was sacrificial and whole. She believed in reconciliation and the power of positive reinforcement, always empowering others to find their right path as she offered support.

“Inspired each day by her dedication to Catholicism, her regular trips to church kept Mom centered on surrendering her soul to God and living a life of generous example. She trusted prayer in times of need and times of thanksgiving. With a Miraculous Medal always around her neck, Mom sought peace and graciously granted forgiveness to everyone in her life who sought it. Those who couldn’t find the strength to ask, she forgave anyway, and that’s a lesson we can all carry with us.

“Her smile was soothing, the signature grin of an eager hostess, pleased to open her home to guests. When you entered 6 Bradley Street, and 2 Garden Street before that, you were part of the family. Now, that may mean you had to take the buns out of the oven, grab a knife out of the drawer or bring a plate to the table, but if you were spending time laughing with Rita, even washing a pile of dishes by hand was fun.

“Perhaps most endearing was Mom’s true appreciation for others. It takes great humility and self-confidence to listen intently and Mom was truly engaged. With a warm hug and intent eye contact, she would ask about your life, your accomplishments and your struggles because she cared about each and how they affected you. If you wanted her opinion, Mom would offer intelligent insight.

“She was able to balance her words of support and encouragement with wit and humor, sharply delivering a memorable punch-line or zinger with pizazz. Every family has classic moments and Mom delivered more than a few.

“Even in her final days, Mom was always thinking about the details that make a difference. Just last week, I made her famous chocolate chip bars for a colleague. She reminded me to cut them a little smaller than I did the last time.

“Like the stories in the thousands of books she flipped through over the course of eight glorious decades, her life story was page-turning in its excitement, colored with fantastic twists and turns, drama, sadness and laughter.

“We spoke 2 weeks ago about growing old and reaching the end. Mom shrugged and told me, ‘There’s nothing you can do. Just hang in there the best you can. It’s part of the journey.’

“Another morsel of wisdom from the woman who never failed to fill up my tank of reassurance.

“Give Dad a hug. I’m glad you’re reunited.”

Rita and Tom Leyden

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A river runs through downtown Westport.

And though we don’t always notice, it’s one of our greatest natural resources. Andrew Fishman captured it recently, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Andrew Fishman)

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And finally … in honor of Remy Laifer’s new touring gig (story above), here’s a video from his 2015 production, with Staples Players:

8 Comments

Posted in Environment, Obituaries, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged Bedford Middle School, Canal Road, CLASP Homes, Compo Beach, flooding, racist graffiti, Remy Laifer, Rita Leyden, Staples High School boys basketball, Staples Players, Wakeman Town Farm

Roundup: Hamlet At Saugatuck, Police Arrests, Leaf Pickups …

Posted on November 3, 2022 | 3 comments

The Planning & Zoning Commission took no action last night on the retail and hotel project known as The Hamlet at Saugatuck.

Discussion, including comments from the public, ranged from building heights and setbacks to where the proposal fits in the town’s affordable housing plans.

Conversations on the text and map amendment requested for The Hamlet will continue on November 14.

Part of the Hamlet at Saugatuck proposal.

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Wakeman Town Farm has many traditions.

The Thanksgiving Pie Sale is only 3 years old. But it’s already one of the most anticipated of all WTF events.

Plus, it’s for a ~~good~~ great cause. Thanks to a partnership with Earth Animal, the Farm and Westporters will raise funds for Connecticut Food Share, helping neighbors in need.

Oronoque Farms is baking up a storm. Choices include apple and blueberry pies (traditional and crumb), and the holiday classic pumpkin pie.

Click here for pie sizes, prices, and pickup dates and times. Orders end November 18.

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The Westport Police have released arrest reports for the October 26-November 2 period.

Three people were detained in custody. Two were charged with identify theft. One was charged with conspiracy to commit larceny, forgery and the sale of a controlled substance.

The following citations were issued:

Traveling unreasonably fast (8)
Cell phone, 1st offense (6)
Violation of any traffic commission regulation (4)
Misuse of plates (4)
Operating an unregistered vehicle (4)
Failure to display plates (3)
Discussion, act or intent to commit a crime (2)
Larceny, 6th degree (2)
Speeding (1)
Improper passing/cutting off (1)
Operating a motor vehicle without a license (1)
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension (1)
Failure to have stop lamps/turn signals (1)
Stop sign violation (1)
Failure to obey control signal (1).

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Speaking of cops:

The WPD and Stop & Shop are again sponsoring a Thanksgiving Food Drive. All donations support Homes with Hope’s Food Pantry at the Gillespie Center. and Westport Human Services’ Food Pantry.

Police officers and volunteers will accept non-perishable food items and cash donations at Stop & Shop this Saturday (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Suggested items include: Applesauce, Brownie/Cake/Pie mix, Breakfast Bars, Boxed Macaroni & Cheese, Canned Sweet Potatoes, Canned Vegetables, Canned Fruit, Canned Gravy, Canned meat/tuna, Cereal, Cranberry Sauce, Dry Milk Envelopes, Hamburger or Tuna Helper, Hearty Soups, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Oatmeal, Pasta Sauce, Peanut butter & Jelly, Rice, and Stuffing. No glass jars!

Items needed for Saturday’s food drive (without the glass jars!).

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It’s leaf collection time!

The Department of Public Works begins curbside leaf collection on Monday (November 7).

All leaves must be placed in biodegradable paper bags near the curb of a town street by December 5. Residents living on private streets must place their leaves behind the curb of an intersecting town roadway. Leaves placed in plastic bags will not be picked up.

There is no need to call for a pick-up. Crews will complete pick-ups as schedules allow. For further information, call 203-341-1120 or click here.

Meanwhile, extended fall hours begin at the Bayberry Brush Facility (180 Bayberry Lane, behind the Aspetuck Health District.

The yard waste site is now open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. 3 p.m. Extended Saturday hours are in effect through December 10.

Westport residents with valid proof of residency may dump up to 6 30-gallon bags or containers full of leaves without a fee. Plastic bags are not allowed.

Any van, pickup or tag-along trailer exceeding the 6-bag limit will be charged $40 per load. Any vehicle or trailer larger than a conventional pickup with a 4-foot by 8-foot bed will be charged $90 per ton.

Any vehicles with a 9-foot body or vehicles changed to significantly enlarge their factory design size will be charged $90 per ton, estimated at 2 ton without weigh slip ($180).

Dump tickets must be purchased at Town Hall, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., or by Department of Public Works, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

(Photo/Scott Smith)

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It’s been awhile since we’ve had major flooding here. (Knock wood.)

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and the Public Works, Planning & Zoning, and Conservation Departments have arranged a series of open meetings to discuss stream flooding and the town’s responses to it.

Officials and personnel experienced in flooding issues and flood plain management, as well as regulations and oversight authority, will attend.

Each meeting will cover specific streams in Westport. There will be a general overview, followed by a forum for anyone to raise specific issues. Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting specific to their neighborhood, but may attend any session they choose.

Information from these meetings will be analyzed, and sent to the Flood and Erosion Control Board to determine flooding priorities.

The meetings will take place in Town Hall on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. The full schedule:

*Date*	*Topic*	*Room*
11-10-2022	Indian River	Auditorium
11-17-2022	Silver Brook & Willow Brook	201
12-01-2022	Muddy Brook	Auditorium
12-15-2022	Pussy Willow Brook	Auditorium
01-12-2023	Sasco Creek & New Creek	Auditorium
01-19-2023	Deadman Brook	Auditorium
01-26-2023	Stony Brook & Poplar Plains Brook	Auditorium

Myrtle Avenue flooding in 2018.

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Yesterday morning, “06880” reported on a new stop sign on the corner of Greens Farms Road and Bulkley Avenue South. Drivers blew right past it.

Yesterday afternoon, it was gone.

That was fast!

Just like the drivers who ignored it.

Now you see it … now you don’t!

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Popular Westport photographer Tom Kretsch is being featured at Picture This – Nylen Gallery, the custom frame shop. The theme is “Chasing the Light.”

There’s a reception November 10 (5:30 to 7:30 p.m.). It’s a chance to relax — just like the moods of his local scenes. For more information, click here.

“Chasing the Light” (Tom Kretsch)

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Many members of the Y’s Men of Westport/Weston spent years working in New York City.

Their hours were long, the commute hard. They didn’t have a lot of time to see a lot of the city.

Now — with many of them retired — they’re enjoying New York walking tours.

Tuesday’s — the 6th in the series — included a jaunt over the Queensboro Bridge. Also called the 59th Street Bridge (by Simon & Garfunkel) and the Ed Koch Bridge (by no one), it connects Manhattan with Long Island City, via Roosevelt Island.

Check out the photo below. Looks like the Y’s men were feelin’ groovy.

Y’s Men members (from left) former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe, tour director Warren Jahn and Bob Mitchell near the peak of the Queensboro Bridge. (Photo and hat tip: Dave Matlow)

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CAMP Gallery’s newest exhibit is a solo show by Westport artist Liz Leggett. It’s a new venue for the well-known MoCA curator.

Leggett’s vibrant abstract work formed a perfect background when she posed (below) with fellow Westporter Ifeseyi Gayle.

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Westport attorneys Ken Bernhard and Ted Freedman have again joined forces for a “Soles4Souls” collection. They’re gathering donations of shoes from residents to help lift people out of poverty, and support those who are homeless in the US and around the world.

From now through Thanksgiving, there are collection boxes at Town Hall, police headquarters and the Senior Center. Donors can drop off new or gently used shoes (with no holes or mold). Please tie the laces together, or use rubber bands to keep matched pairs joined.

In the past, Soles4Souls has collected 3,000 pairs of shoes. Bernhard and Freedman hope for at least 500 pairs this year. For more information, click here.

(From left): Ken Bernhard, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Senior Center director Sue Pfister, Ted Freedman and Westport Police Officer Ashley Delvecchio start the Soles4Souls drive.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo looks like a painting.

This fall has been the season that keeps on giving. We are lucky indeed to enjoy scenes like this.