Tag Archives: Gillespie Center

Roundup: Osprey, Politics, Entertainment …

Posted on March 27, 2026 | 4 comments

They’re back!

Well, at least one is.

Right on schedule, an osprey has returned to the perch between Fresh Market and Terrain.

Hopefully, its mate will join soon. Another season of fishing, breeding and hanging out in (and over) Westport awaits.

(Hat tip and photo/Dana Kuyper)

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Speaking of seasonal activities: These days, many Westporters are busy with spring cleaning.

Nine Rotary Club members took time out of their own yards, gardens and garages yesterday to spiff up the Sherwood Island Connector commuter parking lot, and nearby areas.

Led by Peter Helt and Rick Benson, they collected 25 bulging bags of trash.

“This is our town. Please keep it clean!” says Benson.

Rotarians to the rescue!

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Ani DiFranco drew a large crowd last night, to the Westport Library.

The musician, folk-rock legend and cultural icon kicked off 4 days of VersoFest ’26 in a conversation with Westport TV journalist Lindsay Czarniak about her new book, “The Spirit of Ani: Reflections on Spirituality, Feminism, Music, and Freedom.”

Tonight’s headliner is another musical legend: Wyclef Jean. Very few tickets remain for his 8 p.m. performance (click here to purchase).

For the full lineup of music, workshops, talks, art exhibits and more, click here. 

Ani DiFranco, at VersoFest. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Downtown traffic may be a little tougher than usual tomorrow.

Two events — the weekly 11 a.m., Ruth Steinkraus Bridge anti-Trump protest, and a “No Kings” 12 noon rally on Jesup Green — could cause delays, along with possible road closures.

Traffic moves slowly when downtown is crowded. (Photo/Jim Honeycutt)

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A truck fire on I-95 southbound yesterday evening, just past Exit 17, caused significant delays.

Smoke could be seen as far east as Greens Farms.

(Photo/Michael Diggin)

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MoCA\CT invites all area teenagers to an open “Mic at the Museum Night” (April 30, 6 to 8 p.m.).

Organized by MoCA’s Teen Council, it’s free — and for teens only. Participants can perform in any medium they choose: music (solo or group), comedy, storytelling, rap, dance or whatever. Click here to sign up.

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Speaking of entertainment: Morningside — a local indie-rock band made up of local dads, who just released their debut album of original music — headlines Stage One at FTC next Friday (April 3).

The band — including Westporters Nick Huber, Sean Spillman and Bobby Schlesinger; Westonite Matt Stine, and Ian Walters of Fairfield — opened for John Oates last summer at the Levitt Pavilion. More recently, they played at Mohegan Sun’s Wolf Den Theater.

Canyon — another Westport musician (and mom) — is the opening act at FTC. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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MyTeamTriumph — the great organization that pairs volunteer “angels” with “captain” athletes with disabilities, so that both can compete in running and bike races, and triathlons — hosts a pre-season warm-up short, friendly run and picnic on April 12 (11:30 a.m., Compo Beach).

They invite anyone interested — captain or angel — to check them out.

Upcoming events include the Women’s League of Westport Minute Man Race 5K and 10K (April 26), Boys & Girls Club of Stamford Corporate 5K (May 14), and Bloomin’ Metric Bike Ride (May 17).

Click here to sign up for the April 12 warm-up event. Click here for more information on myTeamTriumph.

MyTeamTriumph, in action.

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A good-sized group of Representative Town Meeting (RTM) members enjoyed their semi-annual lunch this week, at The Clubhouse.

They time this one for the yearly Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce food contest. (This year’s — for the best sandwiches in town — runs through Tuesday, March 31.)

The other lunch takes place during Restaurant Week.

RTM members (plus former moderator Velma Heller, 2nd from right), at The Clubhouse. Owners Tim and Emily Zobl are in back.

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Last year, the Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place — Westport’s men’s and women’s shelters — reopened, after extensive renovations.

This year, they’ve added something else new: an American flag. Peter Jennings installed it Wednesday.

The flag now flies proudly outside Homes with Hope’s Jesup Road building — which also houses a food pantry, and meeting space — in the heart of downtown.

(Photo/Helen McAlinden)

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This winter has been tough on local roads.

The Public Works Department is patching potholes as best they can. The entrance road at Burying Hill Beach has a particularly deep one.

(Photo/Scott Smith)

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Earlier this week the Y’s Women learned about “the power of the Red Cross,” from 2 women who know it well.

Susan Shansky retired from a career in budget management and communications at MIT. She is now a “blood donor ambassador,” having donated 10 gallons (in small increments) to the Red Cross.

Natalie Sustache is an American Red Cross senior recruiter.

The pair described how they bring talented people, to deliver hope and relief every day.

Susan Shansky and Natalie Sustache. (Photo/Vera DeStefano)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is one more in our continuing insistence that yes, spring really is just around the corner.

Though tomorrow’s high will only be around 39, temperatures could reach the 70s on Tuesday and Wednesday. Fingers crossed …

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … Chip Taylor, who wrote songs as diverse as the Troggs’ “Wild Thing” and Merrilee Rush’s “Angel of the Morning,” died Monday in New York. He was 86.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Be an angel! Please click here to make a tax-deductible donation to “06880.” Our hyper-local blog relies on support from readers like you. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, Library, Politics, Sports

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Westporters Help Food Pantry Meet Surging Demand

Posted on November 8, 2025 | 3 comments

The halt in SNAP (food stamp) benefits for millions of American during the government shutdown has gotten plenty of media attention.

It’s exacerbated by rising prices for food (and other items) — and uncertainty over what’s ahead for health insurance.

The national press is filled with stories of long lines at overwhelmed food pantries. People in line — some for the first time ever — talk about uncertainty, fear, and the very real pocketbook choices they must make.

It’s a frightening problem everywhere.

Including Westport.

Homes with Hope — the 41-year-old non-profit dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness and food insecurity in Fairfield County — runs an important food pantry.

 

It’s well stocked, and has always served a steady clientele.

Last week saw a surge in visitors.

Last week also saw, Homes with Hope says, “the true power of community.”

Since November 1 — the day SNAP benefits stopped — the pantry at the Jesup Road Gillespie Center, behind Barnes & Noble, has seen a 70% increase in the number of individuals and families seeking assistance.

Stocking up, at the Gillespie Center food pantry.

In just 4 days Homes with Hope greeted nearly 400 people, representing nearly 1,200 adults and children. New faces appeared every day.

The aid they receive is essential. Clients are grateful that the pantry helps relieve stress and uncertainty — and with healthy food. (The pantry includes meat and perishable goods, along with non-perishables.)

To help serve the increased number of visitors, and reduce wait times, HwH has  introduced a “Grab & Go” program. Quick pick-ups of pre-packed essential and fresh items can save 2 to 3 hours in line.

“Grab & Go” food, outside the Gillespie Center.

Homes with Hope says, “This overwhelming demand was met with overwhelming generosity. We thank everyone who participated in recent food drives, dropped off donations at the Gillespie Center, contributed financially, or sent items from our Amazon Wish List.

“Our shelves are still fully stocked during a time of urgent need. Westport always steps up!”

Residents have generously shopped, using Homes with Hope’s Amazon wish list. Food is delivered quickly to Westport.

Homes with Hope also thanks food retail partners: CT Foodshare, Trader Joe’s, Food Rescue US, Fresh Market and Stew Leonard’s. Their contributions of fresh, healthy food enable HwH to meet rapidly growing needs. 

Pantry organizers are also grateful for the encouragement of local officials. Several visited this week — including 1st and 2nd Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore, and state legislators — and affirmed their strong commitment to helping address food insecurity in this area.

From left: Homes with Hope director of development Katharine Murray, State Senator Ceci Maher, HwH board chair Becky Martin, State Representatives Dominique Johnson and Jonathan Steinberg.

“This has been an unprecedented week,” Homes with Hope notes.

“We look forward to greater stability and clarity in the SNAP program moving forward. We remain committed to ensuring that every person who needs help will find a warm welcome — and a full bag of groceries.”

NOTE: Food donations can be dropped off any time. The Gillespie Center on Jesup Road is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Click here to donate cash, enabling Homes with Hope to purchase food.

The pantry is open Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 1:30 to 4.30 p.m., and Thursday from 1:30 to 6 p.m.

Another way to help: Shop directly from Greens Farms Church’s Amazon Wish List (click here).

Homes with Hope’s Community Kitchen is open daily for lunch (12 noon) and dinner (5 p.m.). It is at the Gillespie Center on Jesup Road (behind Barnes & Noble). 

Homes with Hope staff members — including CEO and president Helen McAlinden — offer individual tours of their facility. Call McAlinden: 475-225-5292.

Volunteers are always welcome — in the food pantry, and to serve meals at the Gillespie Center.

Click here for the Homes with Hope website.

FURTHER NOTE: Governor Ned Lamont announced yesterday that all eligible Connecticut households that receive food assistance through SNAP will have full amounts for November transferred onto their EBT cards within the next several days.

State funding will fill the lapse in federal funding, if the US Department of Agriculture does not follow Thursday’s federal court order to provide full benefits for November. 

 

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Posted in Economy, Politics

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Homes With Hope: Help Is A Family Affair

Posted on July 1, 2025 | 1 comment

School is out.

But hunger never takes a vacation.

Food insecurity affects millions of Americans. Some are right here in Westport.

Homes with Hope — our longtime non-profit provider of emergency and supportive housing — also operates a community kitchen.

Families, individuals, and groups working with civic organizations and houses of worship have always provided the bulk of volunteers to serve meals at the Gillespie Center, the shelter behind Barnes & Noble.

It’s a rewarding experience — one that inspires first-timers, and keeps them coming back regularly.

For the past 10 years Alex Cohen — a Staples High School graduate now raising his own family here, and a member of the Westport Rotary Club — has served meals several teams a year.

A few years ago, he had signed up for a shift but had no childcare. Unwilling to cancel, he brought his 2 young children. They helped out — and loved it.

Alex, Winter and Bodhi Cohen, in the Gillespite Center kitchen. Alex’s fellow Rotarian Lennart Antell (right) made 200 meatballs by hand, for the patrons.

They begged to go back. Alex brought them a second time.

Bodhi is now 8 years old. Winter is 7. They’re still coming.

When a man asked for seconds, Winter said, “Wow, Daddy. He was hungry! And he loved your pasta.”

During a recent renovation, the Gillespie Center’s pantry was enlarged. They can store more items now — non-perishables, as well as milk, cheese, butter, eggs, and personal hygiene and household items.

After touring the new pantry, Bodhi asked his dad if they could buy “extras” on their next grocery trip. Of course, they did.

Bodhi Cohen helps restock the food pantry shelves.

Alex’s story is a great reminder of the needs in our back yard — and the many ways anyone can help.

To volunteer to serve lunch or dinner — individually, as a family or group — click here.

For information about the food pantry, click here. Drop-offs can be made weekdays (except Wednesday), from noon until  p.m.

Questions? Call 203-226-3426. Click here for the Homes with Hope website.

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Unsung Heroes #374

Posted on March 19, 2025 | 6 comments

Less than a year ago, “06880” honored Marcy Sansolo as an Unsung Hero.

We hailed the founder of Facebook’s “What Up Westport” for her regular “Social Media Experiments.” Over 7 years, she’d run more than 2 dozen pop-up collections.

Thanks to Marcy’s posts and persistence, generous residents have donated food for pantries; hats, gloves and socks during winter months; prom dresses; school supplies; Puerto Rico hurricane relief diapers; support for Parkland High School after a shooting; a yearly holiday gift drive, for which people shop in stores or scour their drawers for gifts kids can give to their parents; even a band instrument fhat brought in over 150 trumpets, trombones and more, for Bridgeport youngsters who loved to play but could not afford them.

Marcy Sansolo, mid-collection at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

Now Marcy has embarked on another collection. This stime, she’s joined by another Unsung Hero: a local business.

The Gillespie Center food pantry needs help. This Sunday (March 23, 11 a.m. to 12 noon), she and Martha Deegan will collect items at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

They ask for canned beans, meats, veggies, fruit, pasta, rice, peanut butter, condiments and spices, along with dish soap, paper towels, dish soap and sponges. (No Costco-sized items, due to space constraints).

Supermarket gift cards are also welcome.

Speaking of supermarkets: The Fresh Market manager offered Marcy a great price — if she purchased 100 pounds of meat and chicken, or more.

She put a request on social media for people to cover the cost of the meat. In less than 10 hours, she exceeded the goal.

Yesterday, Marcy bought 100 pounds of meat, and another 100 pounds of chicken, for the Gillespie Center.

Marcy Sansolo (far left) and Martha Deegan (far right), with The Fresh Market’s very helpful staff.

“Mark, Mike, El and Gabby were the stars at Fresh Market,” says. “They couldn’t have been more helpful or kinder.

“Not only are they packing everything in 1-pound parcels — they are delivering it as well.

They also gave Marcy 3o packets of spices, and the promise of dairy and produce.

“I’m at a loss for words,” the normally very talkative civic volunteer says.

Marcy looks forward to seeing a great turnout at the Imperial Avenue parking lot on Sunday. “It’s such a great sense of community,” she says.

She offers this quote, which has always stuck with her: “We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect with our fellow men.”

Marcy and Fresh Market: Thanks for all you do. You are his week’s Unsung Heroes!

(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Unsung Heroes

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Roundup: Gillespie Center Rededication, ADL “Hitler Snowman” Statement, RTM & BOF Meetings …

Posted on February 11, 2025 | 4 comments

Governor Ned Lamont cut the ribbon yesterday, at the rededication of the Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place in downtown Westport.

With 15 and 5 beds respectively — and a newly expanded food pantry, renovated kitchen, and additional meeting rooms — the Homes with Hope facility is better equipped than ever to serve underhoused and hungry residents.

Lamont was joined by Connecticut Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquerra-Bruno, State Senator Ceci Maher, State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore,, Homes with Hope CEO and president Helen McAlinden, Homes with Hope co-founder and former director Rev. Peter Powell, Westport Human Services director Elaine Daignault, and several Representative Town Meeting members.

The Gillespie Center is named for the shelter’s co-founder, Dr. Jim Gillespie. Hoskins Place honors another early housing supporter, Rev. Ted Hoskins of Saugatuck Congregational Church.

The ceremony also included Susie’s Place. Formerly known as Project Return — and named for that organization’s former director Susiei Basler — the Compo Road North house has room for 6 at-risk women, ages 18-24.

After renovations, it will open April 1.

To learn more about Homes with Hope and its services, click here.

Homes with Hope CEO, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker nad Governor Ned Lamont (center, holding scissors and ribbon), at yesterday’s Gillespie Center rededication.

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A statewide organization reacted swiftly to yesterday’s story about a snowman fashioned to look like Adolf Hitler, in the Newman Poses Preserve.

Calling themselves “deeply concerned,” ADL Connecticut said: “The swastika is the symbol adopted by Hitler as the primary emblem of the Nazis. The Holocaust was a singularly evil event, and it is inappropropriate and offensive to make light of it. At a time of rising hate and antisemitism, we call upon community leaders to speak out against this hate. Hate is not child’s play.”

The ADL sent a report about hate and harassment. “Swastikas are very prevalent in gaming and online, and kids see them often,” they said. Click here to read.

Westport’s Democratic Town Committee reposted the ADL’s message, echoing it in “the strongest of terms.”

TEAM Westport chair Harold Bailey Jr. sent a statement to “06880.” Noting it was “personal” — not from the town’s multicultural organization — he said, “Whether hidden on a remote trail or in plain sight, such homages to hatred are heinous and must be condemned.

While some forces within our nation are pushing us pell-mell toward the outlawing of even their discussion, we must steel ourselves at every level to call them out and see them for the poison they represent to our community, and humanity itself.”

The “Hitler” snowman, in Newman Poses Preserce.

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The Representative Town Meeting Planning & Zoning, and Environment, Committees meet jointly tonight (Tuesday, February 11, 7 p.m., Town Hall room 201).

There is one agenda item: “Review of the Old Mill Pond walkway, gate and properties.”

Discussion is expected to include whether the public has the right to access Compo Cove, via the formerly open, now locked gate at the end of the walkway.

Click here to see the entire meeting packet, including documents.

Access to Compo Cove will be discussed at tonight’s RTM committee meetings.

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Tonight also marks the first of 3 consecutive nights of Board of Finance 2025-26 budget discussions.

All meetings take place in Town Hall room 309, beginning at 6 p.m.

The schedule:

Tonight (Tuesday, February 11): Human Services, Parks & Recreation/Wakeman Town Farm, Public Works/Sewer Fund.

Wednesday, February 12: Transit District, Police, Fire.

Thursday, February 13: Earthplace, IT, Library, Health District, Pension/ Insurance/Transfers/Other General.

Click here for a link to the full proposed 2025-26 budget.

Budget discussions begin tonight at Town Hall.

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Layla’s Falafel is known for its great Middle Eastern food.

Now it’s helping hungry folks, in our back yard.

The Post Road East restaurant has partnered with local non-profit Filling in the Blanks. They have pledged $12,000 to fund their Fresh Food on the Move mobile pantry in Bridgeport, at the end of this month. The pantry feeds over 475 families in need, offering fresh and healthy food.

Layla’s is donating $2 for every pint of $8 hummus sold at their Westport, Fairfield and Stamford locations. It’s made fresh daily; it’s vegan, gluten-free and seed oil-free — and includes 3 fluffy pita breads.

Donations can also be made through the QR code below.

Layla’s hummus.

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Everyone needs a warm hug.

This Thursday (February 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) marks the Westport Farmers’ Market’s annual Operation Warm Hug. It was postponed a week, by snow.

At their Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center winter home, Market volunteers will collect lightly used coats, hats, mittens, sweaters and sweatshirts, to share with nOURish in Bridgeport.

Our neighbors are cold. Let’s warm them up!

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For the first time ever last night, Staples Orphenians — the high school’s elite a cappella group — joined Bedford and Coleytown Middle Schools’ cameratas for a joint Choir Festival.

The event, at Bedford, follows a similar three-schools jazz show at Staples.

Choir members enjoyed rehearsing together during the day. More joint music programs are planned for the future.

Choral directors (from left) Christina Dominguez, Lauren Pine and Jason Phillips, sporting their respective school logos.

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Timing is everything.

Yesteray, “06880” posted a story on Stitch Haven. Beth Berkowitz is the new owner of the store formerly known as Westport Yarns.

When the piece was published, a new sign was not yet ini place.

Just hours after the story appeared, the “Stitch Haven” sign was installed.

You can find all your knitting and crocheting needs there on Post Road East, next to Westport Hardware and Cava, across from Fresh Market and Terrain.

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The Y’s Women were recently treated to a chair yoga session, by practitioner Paula Schooler and model Katherine Ross.

Members enjoyed the expansive mind-body session.

Y’s Women yoga, at Green’s Farms Church.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is a bit unusual.

Bob Weingarten writes: “A large tree was slated for removal from Center Street by the town in December.  A town crew removed most of the top of the tree and sides in early January. but left what is shown below — probably because of all the wires.

“This removal is now waiting for (probably) Eversource.”

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … in honor of the rededication of the Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place, and the upcoming reopening of Susie’s Place (story above):

(“06880” is your home for hyper-local news about Westport — our non-profits, businesses, schools, residents, beaches, history and much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Beach, Local politics, Politics, Restaurants

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Roundup: Be Prepared, Serve Meals, Call A JP …

Posted on January 12, 2025 | 4 comments

Westport connections to the Los Angeles fires keep coming.

And this one comes with an important reminder.

Dr. Edward Paul writes: “My two kids are in the LA area. Lexi Paul (Staples Class of 2012) lives in Pasadena; Rachel Paul (SHS ’14) lives in West Hollywood.

“Both were evacuated pretty quickly. Thankfully, each lives in an apartment building in a ‘downtown’ area with limited trees and brush, so they have been spared thus far.

“One lesson I’ve learned from this is that while we try to teach our kids how to navigate life, we (I) haven’t done anything to prepare them for handling disasters.

“How to get public service information, how to sign up for local alerts, what valuables or documents to pack if you need to leave in a hurry, what photos to take of your residence before leaving for possible insurance claims.

“These are important life lessons I’ve now given to them — after the fact, but hopefully before any future needs arise.

“One may think these lessons are common sense. They are for a grown 60-year- old. But maybe not for a 20+ year old.”

Do you — or your children — know what to do when danger suddenly approaches? (Photo/Mike Pryor)

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The Gillespie Center has reopened.

And — after a 7-month hiatus — volunteers are back serving meals.

Now they can cook too, in the new full-service kitchen.

The Westport Rotary Club had the honor of producing the first meal.

The joyful dinner was made even better, with the music of Antonia Nedder.

Families, individuals and organizations wishing to prepare and serve meals can click here for more information.

Serving the first meal at the newly renovated Gillespie Center. Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden (rear) is joined by (from left) Rotarians Mark Wilhelm, Jim Birchfield and Jeff Wieser (former HwH CEO). Helping out (front) are Jeff’s grandchildren.

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Want to get married quickly? Need someone to take a deposition? Have any other official oath-taking (or giving) task in mind?

Westport’s justices of the peace can help.

The town recently added a few new names to its roster of about 60. Many are familiar, as town officials, civic volunteers or other long-time residents.

Click here for a full list. They’re ready to serve.

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At 3 a.m. today, Westport firefighters responded to a motor vehicle crash at the southbound exit of I-95 Exit 18.

The vehicle sustained heavy damage, with one person inside.

Crews used battery-operated rescue tools to remove the roof. The occupant was extricated from the vehicle in under 10 minutes. Patient care and transport to the hospital were provided by Westport Emergency Medical Service.

State and Westport Police were on the scene. The last Westport Fire Department unit left at 5:13 a.m.

Vehicle in this morning’s I-95 crash.

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It’s still January. Can spring be far behind?

Wakeman Town Farm’s Winter Sowing Workshop will teach you how to make your own mini-greenhouse — in a bottle.

Start seedlings. Leave it out until spring. You’ll reap a dozen or more native plants, which pollinators will love.

Advanced master gardener Alice Ely leads the January 27 (7 p.m.) workshop. Click here to register.

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Walrus Alley’s next Comedy Night is January 28 (6:30 p.m. dinner, 7:30 p.m. show).

Comedians Mike Brown, John Minus and Kevin Fitzgerald are on the menu. Tickets are $29. Click here to purchase.

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You never know what will be donated to Goodwill.

Les Dinkin spotted this the other day:

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

Oh, deer!

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We received plenty of snow submissions yesterday for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

What could be more natural than this tranquil scene, at the Lansdowne Condominiums?

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … on this date in 1967, Dr. James Bedford became the first person to be cryonically preserved, after dying of cancer. He hoped to be resuscitated in the future. That has not yet happened.

(Don’t be cold! “06880” relies on the support of readers like you. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank y’all!)

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Roundup: Social Media, Gillespie Center, Wildfires …

Posted on January 9, 2025 | 7 comments

If you made a new year’s resolution to get a better handle on your child’s relationship with social media — or even if you didn’t — you might be interested in a special Westport Together/Westport Public Schools meeting this month.

Max Stossel — the founder of Social Awakening, an organization that helps young people survive and thrive in today’s world — will talk about “Social Media & Your Kids.” The event is January 29 (7 p.m., Bedford Middle School).

Stossel has extensive social media experience. He ran social media for big brands, and worked for a social media company.  

Over the past 10 years he has addressed more than a million students, parents and educators about social media’s impact on our lives, and has developed resources to manage that impact.

Click here to register.

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Just in time for the cold, the Gillespie Center has reopened its doors.

The homeless shelter for 15 men — along with 5-bed Hoskins Place, for women — recently concluded a 7-month renovation.

Homes with Hope’s safe, comfortable place has already welcomed residents who had been sleeping in the train station, in cars and trucks, and at other HwH facilities.

The Westport Rotary Club will provide tonight’s meal. There’s a ribbon-cutting and celebration for the newly designed kitchen too.

For a “tour” of the facility — including bedrooms, meeting rooms, the food pantry, kitchen and more, click below.

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From 3,000 miles away, Westporters have watched with despair as fires ravage Los Angeles.

Nearly everyone here knows someone in Southern California. Many residents wonder what they can do.

“06880” reader Anne Levine suggests a donation to AmeriCares. It’s the first choice for she and her husband Bob whenever a disaster strikes anywhere in the world, she says.

“It is a really well run organization, doing good things everywhere — andoften overlooked,” she adds.

Click here for the AmeriCares website.

Altadena, California (Photo/Philip Cheung for the New York Times)

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Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service’s 2 new ambulances will be delivered this summer.

Both are being customized in New Jersey to meet Westport’s needs, on roads and highways, and at schools, homes, businesses, beaches and parks.

Customization includes “every eflective stripe, emergency light, siren, horn and door.”

The previous Type II Chevrolet chassis will be changed to a medium-duty Freightliner chassis. It is stronger, and will last longer, WVEMS says.

The ambulances are purchased entirely through donations from local organizations and private citizens. WVEMS presidennt Jaime Bairaktaris says, “the tradition of grassroots philanthropy has sustained our town’s EMS since 1979, and we’re honored that it continues through today.

Donations to WVEMS — for ambulances, and all other expenses — are always welcome. Click here for more information.

Artist’s rendering of a new Westport ambulance.

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1st Class Detective Phil Restieri — a 32-year Westport police officer, with 26 years in the Emergency Medical Service — officially retired yesterday.

He started his career in Westport as a special officer in 1993, becoming a full time patrolman in 1996. He became a detective in 2021.

Congratulations, Detective Restieri, on your retirement. Thank you for your service!

Officer Phil Restieri (right), and his grandfather Nick, back in the day.

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Speaking of police: Westport officers made 1 custodial arrest between January 1 and 8.

A 21-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with illegal possession of personal ID information, identity theft, and conspiracy to commit both crimes, after an investigation that began with an armed hijacking in Bridgeport last September.

A week later the stolen vehicle was recovered after crashing into a Wilton police officer. Two occupants of the vehicle fled, but were later arrested.

Westport Police were notifed by Bridgeport police that checks belonging to WEstporters had been seized. The suspect was arrested, and held on $75,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 14 citations
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
  • Speeding over 70 mph: 1
  • Cellphone use, 2nd offense: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Improper turn: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1

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Although Unitarianism and  Universalism both have origins as liberal Christian traditions, they embrace diverse teachings from different global religions and philosophies.

It’s fitting, then, that the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport sponsors a “Crossing Paths” program.

It offers youngsters in grades 5-8 a chance to learn about and experience different faiths, such as Judaism, Hinduism, Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Quakerism, Paganism, and Indigenous beliefs.

The program includes field trips to other houses of worship.

Meetings are Friday evenings or Saturdays, depending on where they are vising. The program begins January 26, and is free. Caregivers and parents are welcome to join in field trips.

For more information, email angi@uuwestport.org.

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Lynsey Addario has done it again.

The 1991 Staples High School graduate — and Pulitzer Prize-, MacArthur “genius grant”-winning New York Times photojournalist and writer — is featured in last Sunday’s Times Magazine.

“Living or Dead, We Want Our Sons Back” is her photo and text look at women in Syria, as they “pick up the pieces of a broken nation.” Click here to see, and read.

(Photo/Lynsey Addario for the New York Times)

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It’s hard enough writing a book, screenplay, or any other work.

Then you’ve got to get it published.

Westport Writers’ Workshop can help. Their 4th annual Pitch & Publish Conference takes place March 22 (Westport Library).

The event is aimed at writers seeking a literary agent, seeking education about the industry at large, or looking to meet and be inspired by authors, agents and editors.

The conference includes a Friday night (March 21, 7-9 p.m.) welcome party for all participants at WWW (25 Sylvan Road), plus Saturday’s panels, 1-on1 pitches, book signings, lunch and wrap party.

New sessions this year are “Crowd Source Your Comps on Zoom” and “Adapting Your Prose into a Screenplay.”

Individual tickets are $350 each (walk-ins accepted); tickets for the conference plus two, one-on-one pitches with literary agents are $600 each (early bird discount of $75 if registered by February 3), $675 each thereafter.

Click here for registration, and more information.

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Bob Weingarten notes, “the town redid the sidewalks on both Morningside Drive South and Hillandale Road.

“They also modernized the sidewalk by providing ramps at each intersection. I compliment the town for providing these ramps, which allow disabled people to better navigate the crossings. Thanks to the town planners.”

Morningside Drive South, at Hillandale Road. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Fires in California. A deep freeze across much of the Midwest.

But here — as today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo of Grace Salmon Park shows — it’s just a regular, cold and beautiful winter day.

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … Happy 84th birthday to Joan Baez.

BTW: If you haven’t yet seen “A Complete Unknown” — the biopic about Bob Dylan’s early Greenwich Village years, including his tempestuous relationship with Baez — be sure not to miss it.

Like so many others, I went with low expectations. And like so many others, I was very impressed.

(Another day, another “06880” Roundup filled with news you can use. Another day too when we remind you: We rely on reader support. Click here to contribute to your hyper-local blog. Thanks!)

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Roundup: Gillespie Center Reopens, Car Fire Contained …

Posted on January 5, 2025 | 3 comments

After 7 months of renovations, clients are moving back into the Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place — Westport’s men’s and women’s shelters on Jesup Road respectively.

On Friday and Saturday, Homes with Hope — the non-profit agency that oversees our town’s responses to homelessness and food insecurity — welcomed hundreds of Westporters for tours.

Representatives showed off the new bedrooms and beds; bathrooms (including handicap-accessible), full-service kitchen, meeting rooms (with one for local organizations to use), freezer, food pantry with toiletries, and more.

Westport’s homeless shelter celebrated its 40th anniversary last year. From its beginning in the old Vigilant Firehouse (now OKO restaurant), it has grown into a full-service shelter.

Homelessness remains a major national problem. In Westport — just a few yards from Tiffany and the police station — it continues to be addressed, forthrightly, generously, and compassionately.

Both the Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place are now accessible through the same door.

New beds, and more room, in the men’s shelter.

A small part of the newly expanded pantry.

Meeting room, where clients can gain assistance for employment and related issues.

From left: Homes with Hope president and CEO Helen McAlinden; director of marketing and development Katharine Murray; vice president and COO Paris Looney. (All photos/Dave Matlow)

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Westport firefighters responded to a vehicle fire at 7:18 last night, at a Sturges Highway home.

They minimized the spread, limiting it to the garage exterior. There were no reported injuries, and the incident is being investigated by the Westport Fire Marshal’s office.

Norwalk and Wilton fire departments provided mutual aid station coverage. The Fairfield fire department responded to the scene as a rapid intervention team.
Westport firefighters were assisted by the Westport Police Department and Westport Emergency Medical Service. The last unit cleared at 10:01 p.m.

The aftermath of last night’s blaze. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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Once upon a time, coyotes roamed this land.

Now they’re back. This one — today’s “Westport … Naturally” subject — was spotted last week on Timber Lane.

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … Wayne Osmond — one of the lesser known members of the eponymous 1970s pop group — died Wednesday in Salt Lake City, after complications of a stroke. He was 73.

Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” is your 24/7/365 source for hyper-local news, events, feature stories, history, photos and more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Gillespie Center Tours, VFW Bowl Games, Sharkey’s Hospitals …

Posted on January 1, 2025 | 4 comments

The renovation is done. Everyone is ready. The move-in date for the remodeled Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place is Monday (January 6).

Homes with Hope — the non-profit that oversees the homeless shelter and food pantry on Jesup Road, between Tiffany and the police station — is proud of the new facility.

Rooms and furnishings are completely redone. The space includes a new kitchen, spacious food pantry, and a meeting room available for non-profits free of charge.

Homes with Hope CEO and president Helen McAlinden is offering tours to the public on Friday and Saturday (January 3 and 4, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.). Reservations are required. Call or text Helen at 475-225-5292 to reserve your spot.

Helen McAlinden, outside the newly renovated Gillespie Center. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Sure, it’s short notice.

But if you’re looking for somewhere to watch today’s Peach and Rose Bowls, VFW Post 399 is your spot.

They’ll welcome you any time between noon and 7 p.m. Good games, great food and drinks, fun company … the perfect way to “kick off” 2025. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

Football, food and fun, from noon to 7 p.m. today.

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There were as many ways to welcome 2025 last night as there are Westporters (including, unusually, thunder).

Everett Bierman took this view:

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Pizza meets politics on Monday.

That’s the date (January 6, 7 p.m.), and Pizza Lyfe is the place, for the next League of Women Voters o Westport event.

The non-partisan organization invites residents to a free pie — and a chance to meet our town’s state legislators, to find out what’s happening in Hartford.

The LWV says “bring questions and a guest.” They’ll supply the pizza.

To attend, email kubuguzu@gmail.com.

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Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids — the Westport-based national haircut chain — has partnered with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

It’s both a fundraising effort, and a way for Sharkey’s to impact many of the communities where franchises are located.

Over the past 40 years, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals have raised more than $9 billion for 170 facilities across North America.

The Sharkey’s partnership includes participation in local events that unite families and support local hospitals; themed fundraising events; franchise donations; special events like a “Day of Beauty” or free haircuts for pediatric cancer patients, and more.

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Claudia Sherwood Servidio calls our New Year’s Day “Westport … Naturally” image “Spring in Winter.”

She shot this on Main Street near Cross Highway, at Willowbrook Cemetery.

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … today, as we begin the second quarter of the 21st century, let’s look back 45 years.

In 1979, the Village People released “Ready for the ’80s.” Its thumping disco beat and turn-the-decade lyrics were relentlessly upbeat.

Take my dream and hitch it to a starIn the ’80s we will travel farWe will realize just who we areWe can move as one.

Im ready for the ’80s, glad to be aliveI’m waiting for those magic numbers to arriveI’ve got myself together, got myself in gearI’m gonna be the first out there, to greet those fabulous years.

Sure, the Berlin Wall fell.

But the ’80s also brought AIDS, the Tiananmen Square Massacre, the Challenger space shuttle explosion, the Chernobyl nuclear accident, John Lennon’s murder, and a lot more.

Still, a new year always brings optimism. Right?

(Are you ready for 2025? “06880” sure is. And to ensure another year of hyper-local journalism, please click here. Thank you!)

 

 

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Good News For Westport’s Homeless And Hungry: Gillespie Center Reopens Soon

Posted on December 3, 2024 | 4 comments

As the housing crisis worsened last year, Westport’s Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place — the downtown site with beds for 15 men and 4 women, respectively — closed.

The reason: much-needed renovations. Homes with Hope — the non-profit that for 40 years has housed the homeless, provided meals and a food pantry for the hungry, and offered other supportive services — moved its residents into Linxweiler House (on the Post Road between McDonald’s and Fresh Market), and other shelters.

HwH is a ray of hope for unhoused people — and the working poor, who also face difficulties finding a place to live. CEO Helen McAlinden says a person must earn $42.50 an hour to afford a studio apartment in Fairfield County. Many Homes with Hope clients, meanwhile, make just $15 an hour. Even with 2 or 3 jobs, they cannot pay rent.

Gillespie Center, before renovations. (Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

Linxweiler House has been a temporary solution. After initial hesitation, Crescent Road residents have embraced their new neighbors.

But soon, the Gillespie Center will be back in operation. After months of construction, it will be more functional, efficient and welcoming than ever.

It’s not just for homeless people, either. A large, well-lit new conference room will be available, free, for non-profits to use.

The other day, McAlinden showed off the space. An entirely new kitchen will enable volunteers — individuals, families, organizations, and Cecily Gans’ Staples High School culinary classes — to not just serve, but also cook, meals.

Clients can use it too, to learn or improve their cooking skills.

Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden, in the new kitchen …

An ADA-compliant bathroom means that people with disabilities can shower and take care of themselves too.

An isolation room is available for clients who get sick. When not in use, it can be used for extra beds.

The men’s dorm has been split into 2 rooms. The result is more privacy — and light.

The women’s shelter now shares a hallway with the men’s. Previously, women had to leave the kitchen or community room and walk outside, to a separate entrance.

The second floor food pantry — open to the public — is now served by a dumbwatier. “No more hauling sacks of potatoes up the stairs!” McAlinden explains.

… and food pantry …

The pantry will have have a refrigerator and freezer, allowing it to store milk, cheese, eggs and meat.

There’s space too for toiletries, like toothpaste and soap.

The refrigerator and toiletries have been some of the most popular features of the temporary pantry at Sasco Creek Village. It’s been a great success, since moving there in May.

But McAlinden looks forward to getting the pantry back under the Gillespie roof. And the Westport Housing Authority, which oversees Sasco Creek Village near the Southport line, will be happy to get its community room back.

“This is an unbelievable, state-of-the-art facility,” says McAlinden proudly. The bulk of the funding caem from a federal Department of Housing ARPA grant. An anonymous gift paid for the dormer conference room that will be used by any non-profit that needs it.

… and outside the entrance. (Photos/Dan Woog)

Westport Department of Human Services director Elaine Daignault played a key role in the project. She wrote the grant, coordinated efforts with the town, and managed the project with McAlinden.

“So many people have been so supportive,” McAlinden notes.

Final construction, including wiring, plumbing, floorng and painting, is underway now. Beds will be delivered soon. Clients are expected to move back in before Christmas.

The Gillespie Center — and Homes with Hope — continue to be the gift that keeps on giving.

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