Tag Archives: hazardous waste

Roundup: Learn About The RTM! Make A Memorial Day Parade Float! See “Jaws!” …

Posted on March 20, 2025 | 8 comments

Westport is one of the few towns left in Connecticut with a Representative Town Meeting (RTM).

It’s our legislative branch. They pass budgets, enact ordinances, hear appeals, and do much more that impacts our daily lives.

You may know something about the RTM. You may know very little, or nothing at all.

This Sunday (March 23, 2 p.m., Westport Library), you can learn much more. A community conversation — with long-time RTM members, and newer ones — will cover what they do, how they do it, and why you should care.

Here are some reasons why I care about this event: The RTM is important. it’s been around for 75 years. Members are a diverse, interesting and hard-working group.

Plus, I’m the moderator on Sunday.

See you there!

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And the theme for the 2025 Memorial Day Parade float contest is … “Remember and Honor.”

Certificates will be awarded for Best Development of Theme, Best Youth Organization Float, Most Creative, Best Community Organization, Most Colorful, and Best Overall Float. 

I’m going way out on a limb here, but I predict the Best Overall Float winner will be … the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

Just a hunch.

The Memorial Day parade begins at 9 a.m. on Monday, May 26. It runs from Saugatuck Elementary School, up Riverside Avenue, across the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge and onto Myrtle Avenue. It ends with a brief but moving ceremony at Veterans Green, across from Town Hall.

If you are new to Westport, and/or haven’t been to the parade: Mark it down on your calendar. It’s one of the best events in town.

Plus, if you have a kid involved in any activity at all, you have to go. They’re in it.

The Y’s Men ALWAYS win. This was their 2021 float. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Looking for a way for your 6th or 7th grader to participate in March Madness — without betting?

The Westport Weston Family YMCA hosts a special event tomorrow (Friday, March 21, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.), in the gym.

Organized by junior board members, it includes basketball games, pizza, and a fun, social atmosphere.

Games are 3-v-3. Register with your onw team (limit: one travel player per team!), or sign up individually to be placed on a team. Entry fee is $25 for Y members and non-members alike.

The winning team can choose a charity to receive a donation from the proceeds.

Click here to register. Then click here for your team or individual sign-up.

Questions? Email sports and rec director Emily Regan: eregan@westporty.org.

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If you haven’t been to an Artists Collective of Westport pop-up exhibit:

  • What are you waiting for?
  • Here’s your chance.

On April 2 (6 to 8 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse barn), they’ll host a reception for their next show.

On tap: hors d’oeuvres, wine, conversation, and beauty provided by 12 artists: Tom Berntsen, Louise Cadoux, Leonor Dao, Yuko Ike, Natasha Karpinskaia, Constance Manna, Dionne Pia, Dorothy Robertshaw, Norm Siegel, Marlene Siff, Debbie Smith and Elizabeth White.

Guitarist Bill Bickford will provide the music. He has played or recorded with jazz greats Joe Bowe, Mose Allison, Donald Byrd and Maceo Parker.

The exhibit runs April 3-6 (12 to 4 p.m.). An artists’ talk at 4 p.m. on April 6 will cover the creative process.

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United Methodist Church hosts 2 events for the public next month. One is for kids, the other for adults.

An Easter Egg hunt (for youngsters up to age 10) is April 5 (2 p.m.). It’s free, but donations of non-perishable food for local pantries are welcome.

The Legacy String Quartet performs April 13 (2 p.m.). The suggested donation is $20.

The 2023 Easter Egg Hunt at the United Methodist Church.

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In 2018, Connecticut became one of the first states to restrict the use of insecticides called neonicotinoids.  This class of chemicals is very harmful to pollinators.

The Public Works Department encourages residents to take advantage of Household Hazardous Waste Day (Saturday, April 5, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station parking lot), to dispose of any insecticides with neonicotinoid.

Products that contain these chemicals (see label) may be disposed of on April 5:

  • Imidacloprid
  • Clothianidin
  • Thiamethoxam
  • Acetamiprid
  • Dinotefuran

For a complete list of products containing neonicotinoids, click here.

Save pollinators! Dispose of neonicotinoids! (Photo/Lou Weinberg)

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The annual Compo Beach sand replenishment/grading process continues at Compo Beach.

It’s a big deal. And an important one.

Here was the scene yesterday:

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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On the first day of spring, one more sign that summer is near:

In honor of the 50th anniversary of “Jaws,” the Westport Country Playhouse will screen that ground-breaking film.

The June 2 (7 p.m.) event includes an exploration of hidden details and behind-the-scenes stories before the showing, and a conversation after about how it became one of the greatest films of all time.

Tickets are $25 ($15 for Encore Club members). Click here to reserve, and for more information.

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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between March 11 and 19. One — reported earlier — involved the sale of illegal sale/manufacture of cannabis, at Savvy Smoker.

A 59-year-old Westport woman was charged with larceny, after she was observed filling up a Stop & Shop grocery cart, then leaving without paying. A wintess recorded her license plate, while parked in the fire lane. She ws released after postin a $10,000 bond.

A 26-year-old Stratford woman was charged with criminal attempt to commit larceny, illegal possession of a personal ID information device, and identity theft, following the theft of 2 checks from a mailbox. He was released after posting a $35,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 6 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 6
  • Failure to renew registration: 5
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 5
  • Speeding: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • Driving while texting: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Failure to drive in the propero lane: 1
  • Failure to drive right: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Failure to display license plate: 1

The fine in Connecticut for passing a standing school bus is $450 for the first offense. Fines then rise to $500 to $1,000, with the possibility of 30 days in jail. (Photo/Christie Stanger)

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Scarlet witch hazel makes its first-ever appearance in our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature. It’s in Werner Liepolt’s yard, on Bridge Street.

(Photo/Werner Liepolt)

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And finally … it’s spring!

The long-awaited season arrived officially at 5:01 this morning.

(Spring, summer, fall, winter — “06880” is here for you. We’re your 24/7/365, hyper-local source for news, events, opinions, photos, and more. Thanks for clicking here to support our work!)

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Posted in Arts, Children, Environment, Library, Local politics, Police, religion, Sports, Westport Country Playhouse, YMCA

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Roundup: Hazardous Waste, Good Food, The Oscars …

Posted on March 4, 2025 | 1 comment

Get wasted!

The Department of Public Works’ annual Household Hazardous Waste Day is  Saturday, April 5 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station).

This free program enables residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich to safely dispose of household hazardous wastes.

Products like cleaners, gasoline and pesticides can pollute the environment and jeopardize public health if disposed of improperly.

Residents may dispose of these types of hazardous waste: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.

Before bringing household hazardous material to the collection site:

  • Make sure items are clearly labeled. Do not mix chemicals. Incompatible products may react, ignite, or explode, and mixed waste may become non-recyclable.
  • Keep products in original labeled container.
  • Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
  • Tighten lids of all containers, and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
  • Put boxes in the trunk or in the back of the vehicle away from passengers.
  • Keep your windows open.
  • Leave pets and children home.
  • Do not smoke or eat while handling hazardous materials.

Westport residents may recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector. It’s open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.

The following items are not acceptable: ammunition, flares, and commercial hazardous waste.

Questions? Call Public Works: 203-341-1793.

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Sure, you shop at the Westport Farmers’ Market. You love the fresh fruits, vegetables, produce, meats and more, and you stock up every Thursday, at the Imperial Avenue parking lot (spring through all), and Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center (winter).

But wouldn’t it be nice to have some great recipes, to add extra creativity to all that great food?

The Farmers’ Market Recipe Program is your answer.

Directed by chef Jes Bengtson of @terraincafe, the Farmers’ Market Instagram features monthly videos by top local chefs and foodies. Each one includes information on how to source ingredients from WFM, how to prep, and how to prepare.

You can find them on the Farmers’ Market’s Instagram (click here), Facebook page and website.

Hungry yet? Look below, for a list of monthly culinary stars.

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Speaking of food: This is Soup Month in Westport.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker made the proclamation yesterday, at Calise’s Food Market. It was the first serving of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce Great Soup Contest.

All month long, 16 soup-making spots will compete in 7 categories. Judging will be done online, by soup-loving Westport residents.

And every voter is entered into a drawing to win a free soup, from one of the 7 winners.

The 16 competitors are Basso, Calise’s, Capuli, Gaetano’s, Garelick and Herbs, Gold’s Deli, Joe’s Pizza, Kawa Ni, Little Pub @ Dunville’s, Old Mill Grocery, Organic Market, Rive Bistro, Rizzuto’s, Romanacci, The Whelk and Tutti’s.

The 7 categories are: Best Chicken, Beef, Vegetable, Asian, Onion and Matzoh Ball Soup, and Best Chowder. Each place can enter up to 4 categories, but can win no more than 2.

Voting runs through March 31. Visit the venues, enjoy their offerings, then click here to vote.

Kicking off the Great Soup Contest (from left): town attorney Ira Bloom, Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell, assistant town attorney Eileen Flug, 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Calise’s owner Carmen Cenatiempo.

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Speaking still of food: Finalmente has not served its last meal.

The Post Road East restaurant — next to Jeera Thai, across from Design Within Reach — will reopen, perhaps as early as the end of this month.

The new owners — Giuseppe Cinque, a familiar name to Fairfield County diners — will keep the old name. But he’s updating the menu, and renovating the interior.

CT Insider first reported the news. Click here for their story.

Finalmente, before it closed last May after 19 years.

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The Board of Finance begins its review of 2 proposed 2025-26 budgets tomorrow (Wednesday, March 5, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium; livestream on Cablevision Channel 79, and westportct.gov).

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker will present the town budget. Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein offer the Westport Public Schools budget.

Click here to view Tooker’s proposed budget. Click here for Scarice and Goldstein’s proposed budget.

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If you watched the Academy Awards on Sunday, you saw plenty of gorgeous dresses.

You may have especially admired Halle Berry, Queen Latifah and Whoopi Goldberg’s outfits.

Each was special. But all were created by Christian Siriano. The fashion designer lives in Westport, and has his own shop-by-appointment store, The Collective West, on Post Road East. (It will close soon however, and relocate to New York.)

Click below to see Whoopi Goldberg. Click here for more of Siriano’s designs, on his Instagram page.

Whoopi Goldberg, in a Christian Siriano gown.

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Speaking of the Oscars: Michael McCorry Rose interrupted rehearsals for Westport Country Playhouse’s next show — the romantic comedy “Theatre People” — to attend Sunday night’s ceremony.

He had good reason: He was a cast member of the film “Wicked.”

But the Playhouse was on his mind. Standing on the carpet, he gave a shoutout to the character he will portray beginning March 25: the narcissistic Victor Pratt, aka “Broadway’s Favorite Baritone.”

Click here for more information, and tickets to “Theatre People.” Click below for the video of Rose, at the Oscars.

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Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport has an active March. Among the activities:

  • International Women’s Day Lunch (March 8, 11:30 a.m., Gabriele’s Steak House).
  • Girls Night Out (bring a dish for potluck dinner, BYOB drink, and karaoke energy).
  • Book group (March 27; private home): “A Hundred Summers.” Contact Peggy O’Halloran: pohal@aol.com.
  • Cooking group (date and theme TBD). Email mia.goldman@yahoo.com.

For more details, including membership, click here.

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Westport Pride’s annual drag show is going on the road.

This year’s special guest is Patty Bourée. The 18+ event — with cocktails, songs and comedy — is March 22 (7 p.m.) at The Knowlton, Bridgeport’s premier event space.

“Come dressed to spring eternal,” organizers say. And why not? It’s the second day of spring!

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Patty Bourrée

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Sara Caswell headlines this week’s “Jazz at the Post” (Thursday, March 6, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7; music charge $20, $15 for veterans and students).

A classically trained string player, she has toured or recorded with Bruce Springsteen, Esperanza Spalding, Regina Carter and others, and led her own band. Caswell teaches at the Berklee College of Music, New York University and the New School.

Joining her are bassist Ike Sturm, guitarist Jesse Lewis, painist Alex Browner and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.

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You have to look hard to see the 2 bobcats in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

But that’s the idea of camouflage.

Ivan and Danielle Alexander spotted the animals on Sunday, in their Coleytown neighborhood.

(Photo/Ivan Alexander)

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And finally … in honor of Westport Pride’s upcoming drag show (story above):

(Where else but “06880” can you learn about hazardous waste, the Oscars and a drag show, all at once? If you enjoy our daily Roundups, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Local politics, Politics, Restaurants

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Roundup: Hazardous Waste Day, Bernadette Peters, Long Lots …

Posted on March 14, 2024 | 2 comments

Westport’s next Hazardous Waste Day is Saturday, April 13 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station).

The free program enables residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich to safely dispose of household hazardous wastes.

Residents of those towns may bring these types of hazardous waste: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.

  • Make sure items are clearly labeled.
  • Never mix chemicals!
  • Keep products in their original labeled containers.
  • Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
  • Tighten lids of all containers, and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
  • Put boxes in the trunk or in back of the vehicle, away from passengers.
  • Leave pets and children home when bringing hazardous materials for collection.
  • This is the first Hazardous Waste Day of 2024, so lines may be long.

Westport residents may recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.

The following items are NOT acceptable: ammunition, flares, commercial hazardous waste.

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The Westport Country Playhouse has hosted many big names.

On May 19, it adds another: Bernadette Peters.

The stage, film and television actor and singer has won 4 Emmy Awards, 3 Tonys, and a Golden Globe. She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Peters just finished a successful West End debut in “Old Friends,” celebrating the life and work of Stephen Sondheim.

Tickets for the evening of song are $250 and $175. All proceeds benefit live theater at the Playhouse. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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The Long Lots School Building Committee meets tonight (Thursday, March 14, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 309).

Two items on the agenda:

  • Executive discussion to discuss Request for Quote submissions, with invited candidates.
  • Public comment and/or questions, as time allows.

Discussion continues, on a new Long Lots Elementary School.

Meanwhile, next Monday (March 18, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will present the town budget for fiscal year 2024-25 to the Board of Finance.

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A large crowd filled Mitchells of Westport for last night’s meet-and-greet with University of Connecticut women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma, and his team.

Among the attendees: Emily Bernier. She wore her UConn shirt. Meeting the legendary Auriemma was fun — and so was posing with her idol, Paige Bueckers:

The event was a fundraiser for Bleeding Blue for Good, the organization that provides name, image, likeness opportunities for Husky athletes.

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There is no limit on beach sticker sales to people who live in Westport and Weston.

However, only 450 stickers are sold to folks living anywhere else.

Those non-resident sales began yesterday, online and in person.

The photo below shows the woman (on the right) who purchased the first non-resident sticker.

She looks delighted.

Like the rest of us, she can’t wait to shed her coat, and — starting May 1 — put that sticker to good use.

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Registration is open for a slew of Wakeman Town Farm classes and events, for children and adults.

They include:

  • Kids’ spring classes
  • Kids’ summer camp
  • Kids’ Easter and Passover cooking (April 26, 4:15 to 6 p.m., ages 6-12)
  • Backyard chicken-keeping (April 4 and 25, May 9, 6:30 p.m.)
  • Canning class: jams and pickles (April 30, 6:15 p.m.).

Click here for details and registration information.

Want to raise chickens? Wakeman Town Farm will teach you.

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Jill Dunn‘s speed dating events are attracting big crowds.

And some great success stories.

The next are on Tuesday (March 19, Walrus Alley).

There are actually 2: one of people in the 30s-40s range (7 p.m.), the other for singles 55+ (5 p.m.).

Space is available for all (particularly for “great men” in the older group).

Click here for tickets to next Tuesday’s events. Click here for more news and information for singles.

Speed dating at Walrus Alley.

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Westport Police made no custodial arrests between March 6 and 13.

They issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 12 citations
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 5
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • No passing zone violation: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to comply with dog ownership requirements: 1
  • Permitting dog to roam: 1
  • Failure to comply with tinted auto glass regulations: 1
  • Failure to return plates: 1

Westporters love dogs. But you can’t let them roam. And they have to obey all regulations. (Photo/Dana Altman)

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Last week, “06880” reported that Nate Colman and Jonah Rothlein’s documentary was one of 15 finalists for C-SPAN’s Student Cam contest.

Now it’s official: the Weston High School students’ story about Morad Tahbaz, a Weston resident held in an Iranian prison for 6 years, won the grand prize.

The young filmmakers will receive $5,000 — and “Innocents Held Hostage” will air on C-SPAN on April 21 (6:50 a.m., then throughout the day).

You can see it now — just click below:

The network received over 1,600 entries, from 42 states and Washington DC.

Congratulations, Nate and Jonah!

Nate Colman and Jonah Rothlein

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The Porch at Christie’s is now also The Porch at the Y.

The popular Cross Highway spot has opened an outpost at the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

They’re selling wraps, muffins, breakfast sandwiches, coffee, fruit and more.

That’s good news for everyone hungry after a workout, plus parents hanging out while their kids play, and of course Y employees.

It’s good news too for people with disabilities. The Porch’s mission is to train and hire those individuals — there, and at its Sweet P Bakery.

The Porch kiosk, at the YMCA. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Westport is a town of people who love to read. Now, you can help select the next winner of the Westport Prize for Literature.

The Westport Prize needs readers to help vet manuscripts for its 2024 honor, to be awarded in conjunction with this fall’s StoryFest.

Readers will read 2 or 3 manuscripts, then submit feedback via an online form. Those results will help determine the finalists that advance to an independent jury.

The Westport Prize for Literature honors “an original work of fiction that explores issues in contemporary society. Last year’s winner was Zadie Smith, for The Fraud.

Westport residents interested in being a reader for this year’s prize should click here.

Last year’s winner of the Westport Prize for Literature.

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The Greenfield Hill Grange is in Fairfield. But Westporter Cornelia Olsen is very involved.

And Westport resident/composter/self-described “trash picker” James Flint is the speaker at fundraiser there. Proceeds will help pay for a new roof on the beautiful Queen Anne building.

“Recycling Revisited” (March 23, noon) is a luncheon and panel discussion for “gardeners, farmers, eaters and waste generators.”

Speakers will offer updates on what’s in and out in the recycling world; the solid waste crisis in Connecticut, and what local residents can do about it all.

Tickets are $20, and include a tuna or egg salad sandwich, beverage and dessert. RSVP by March 20; call Cornelia: 203-571-8673.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is an unusual night one.

Doris Ghitelman shot this looking across the Saugatuck River. The lights are from buildings on Saugatuck Avenue.

(Photo/Doris Ghitelman)

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And finally … speaking of Bernadette Peters, coming in May to the Westport Country Playhouse (story above):

(Not a day goes by that “06880” is not grateful for our readers’ support. Please click here, to make our day. Thank you!)

 

 

 

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Posted in Environment, Police, Restaurants, Teenagers, Weston, Westport Country Playhouse, YMCA

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Roundup: Beach Weather, Hazardous Waste, Challenged Books …

Posted on April 14, 2023 | 14 comments

Yesterday was a beautiful beach day.

The temperature soared to the mid-80s. Schools are on spring break, so nearly everyone who was not in St. Barts or Portugal headed to the beach.

Except employees of Hook’d.

Hook’d has not yet opened for the season. Don’t hold your breath. This photo was from last year, a few days before Memorial Day. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

I got several emails about the beach concessionaire. Amy Schneider’s was typical: “Too bad Joey’s is gone. It would have been open today, unlike the current one which is closed.”

Earlier this week, a reader asked when Hook’d would open. I relayed the question to Parks & Recreation director Jen Fava.

As of this morning, I have not heard back.

Compo Beach, April 13, 2023. (Photo/Dick Kalt)

There was this beach scene too:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

I didn’t make it to the beach yesterday.

But when I got in my car at 3:50 p.m.:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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It was not quite as warm Tuesday — just in the 70s — but that did not stop these youngsters from celebrating a week off from school.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

Do they know how good they have it?

When I was their age, I sure didn’t.

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One of Westport’s most popular events — Household Hazardous Waste Day — falls on a propitious date this year: Earth Day.

The Department of Public Works’ annual collection is set for Saturday, April 22 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station).

There is no charge for residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich who wish to safely dispose of household hazardous wastes.

Among the wastes accepted at the station: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.

The following items are not acceptable: ammunition, flares and commercial hazardous waste.

Before bringing material to the collection site:

  • Make sure items are clearly labeled. Never mix chemicals!  Incompatible products may react, ignite or explode, and mixed waste may become non-recyclable.
  • Keep products in original labeled container.
  • Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
  • Tighten lids of all containers. Pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
  • Put boxes in the trunk or in the back of the vehicle, away from passengers.
  • Leave pets and children home.
  • Keep your windows open. Drive directly to the collection site.
  • Do not smoke or eat while handling hazardous materials.

REMINDER: Westport residents may also recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector, weekdays between 7 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.

Questions? Call 203-341-1793.

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The next step in the long process following a resident’s complaint about 3 books in the Staples High School library takes place Monday (April 17, 3:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

At its last session, the superintendent’s ad hoc review committee took 3 votes. All were 10-0, in favor of retaining “Flamer,” “Gender Queer” and “This is So Gay.” Tara McLaughlin took issue with them, and had previously been given an hour to air her concerns.

On Monday, the committee will review a draft of their recommendation to superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice, and take a final vote on it.

The meeting is open, but residents cannot comment. Public comment may be allowed at a future meeting.

Committee members met at Town Hall, earlier this month. (Photo/Brian McGunigle)

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“Ain’t Misbehavin’” — the Broadway musical about jazz great Fats Waller — is drawing crowds at the Westport Country Playhouse. The show ends April 29.

Then, the historic theater will get ready for more — including 2 productions just for kids.

“The Pout Pout Fish” (Sunday, May 21, 1 and 4 p.m., grades pre-K through 2) features whimsical puppets and live performers, in an oceanic adventure.

“The Magic School Bus” (Sunday, June 4, 1 and 4 p.m., grades K through 5) is a musical adaptation based on the Scholastic book series.

All tickets are $25. Click here for more information.

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Staples High School freshman midfielder Natalie Chudowsky — a star on the Wreckers’ state champion soccer team, and a New York SC club player — is one of 23 girls chosen to attend the US Under-15 national team’s training camp in Kansas City.

In February, she attended the training camp in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Congratulations, Natalie!

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New Yorker staff writer — and 1985 Staples High School graduate — David Grann has a new book.

After six years of research into the wreck of a British warship off the coast of Chile in 1740 — including his own journey to the inhospitable island where the castaways washed up — “Grann has delivered what will likely endure as the definitive popular account of the demise of the H.M.S. Wager,” the New York Times says.

It adds:

An engrossing survival story, “The Wager” is a knotty tale of moral compromises and betrayal and a metaphysical inquiry into the elusive nature of truth and the power of stories to shape history and our perceptions of reality.

The book, which Doubleday will release on April 18, has drawn enthusiastic early reviews. It is being adapted into a feature film by the director Martin Scorsese and the actor Leonardo DiCaprio — who also teamed up on a forthcoming movie based on Grann’s book “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI.”

To read the full Times story — headlined “A Swashbuckling Tale of Mutiny Took Him Where ‘The Soul of Man Dies'” — click here. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)

David Grann

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Nine new members were sworn in Wednesday, as members of the Westport-Weston Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

All are clergy members in nearby towns. They completed a training course, learning how to render aid in a wide range of emergencies.

.New CERT members hold certificates. Fifth from the left is Sergio Roque, a team member and clergyman who encouraged new members to take the training. To his right is Mike Vincelli, president of Westport-Weston CERT. (Photo/Molly Alger)

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Congratulations to the Weston History & Culture Center. They received the Connecticut League of History Organizations Award of Merit for their reinterpretation of the Coley House, the historic Weston Road farmhouse that is their headquarters.

The award calls the project “a true gem, reflecting excellent research, a wonderful balance of micro- and macro-histories, and a thoughtful and creative combination of exhibition and historic room interpretation …. (it) stands out as an example of interpretation of a period rarely covered by historic house museums in Connecticut.”

Rooms on the first floor have been interpreted in the 1941-45 period, when 3 generations of the Coley family occupied the home.

Beginning this Sunday (April 16), the Coley House will be open every Sunday and Thursday, with tours at 1, 2 and 3 p.m.

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Former 2nd Selectman and Board of Finance chair Avi Kaner will be honored next month, by the Foundation Fighting Blindness.

Kaner — co-owner of New York’s Morton Williams Supermarkets — is set to be feted May 11 (6 p.m., Chelsea Piers). Click here for tickets and more information.

Avi Kaner

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Johanna Keyser Rossi provides today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, and this background:

“I spotted this bird at the beach, called killdeer. I thought they ate fish, but I looked it up and found they eat bugs, and sometimes seeds. I was a able to zoom in and take pictures.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … summer’s here! And the time is right …

(“06880” has already started its Compo coverage. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Hazardous Waste, Earth Day, Queer Cook-Off …

Posted on April 15, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: Hazardous Waste, Earth Day, Queer Cook-Off …

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Get ready to “waste” a whole day on April 23.

That’s Westport’s annual Household Hazardous Waste Day (Greens Farms railroad station, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

Sponsored by the Department of Public Works, it’s a free program for residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich.

Among the items accepted: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.

Before bringing household hazardous material to the collection site:

  • Make sure items are clearly labeled
  • Do not mix chemicals.  Incompatible products may react, ignite, or explode, and mixed waste may become non-recyclable.
  • Keep products in original labeled container.
  • Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
  • Tighten lids of all containers and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
  • Put boxes in the trunk or in the back of the vehicle away from passengers.
  • Leave pets and children home.
  • Keep your windows open and drive directly to the collection site.

REMINDER: Westport residents can recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.

Questions? Call 203-341-1793.

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Don’t believe everything you read here.

Of course Earth Day is not today (as I mistakenly said yesterday). Which means all the events sponsored by Friends of Sherwood Island will not take place tomorrow.

The correct date for the Sherwood Island activities is Saturday, April 23. They include:

Friends’ Garden Team Activities (9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Friends’ table on East Beach across from the Nature Center).

🌱Bring a reusable water bottle; get a “Protect Our Wildlife” sticker (while supplies last).

🌱Tour the Dunes Restoration project site; plant a stem of American Beach Grass.

🌱Learn about native plant species planted for wildlife at the park; get a list for planting at home.

  • “Why Reducing Food Waste is Critical to a Sustainable Future” (9:30 to 11 a.m.).
  • “Walk Through Sherwood Island’s History (From 12,000 Years Ago)” (noon to 1:30 p.m.).
  • “Salt Marshes and Marsh Migration at Sherwood Island” (12:30 to 2 p.m.)
  • “Environmental Role of Trees at the Park”(2 to 3:30 p.m.)

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Aspetuck Land Trust celebrates Earth Day too (naturally).

Next Friday (April 22, noon) there’s a virtual “Lunch & Learn” webinar called “2/3 For the Birds.” That’s because birds need 70% (approximately 2/3) native plants to maintain healthy population levels. Click here to register.

The next day (Saturday, April 23, 10 a.m. to noon, Trout Brook Valley Jump Hill Preserve), there’s a vernal pool hike with wetland scientist Edward Pawlak. Space is limited; click here.

On Sunday, April 24 (10:30 a.m. to noon, Trout Brook Valley orchard and blueberry patch), the Spring Hawk Walk returns. Raptor specialist Larry Fischer hopes to catch one or more hawks to present to the group, while discussing fascinating details about those extraordinary creatures. Space is limited; click here.

Birds need native plants to thrive.

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LGBTQ Pride Month is June.

Westport Pride gets a jump on the festivities May 19 (6 p.m.). Three teams of “chef-testants” (a local chef, plus members of the local LGBTQ community and allies) has 30 minutes to whip up an appetizer and entrée — using items in a mystery box — for 5 judges in a “Queer Cook-Off.” It all takes place in Aitoro Appliance’s Norwalk kitchens.

Celebrity chefs include Bill Taibe (owner/chef of Don Memo, Kawa Ni, The Whelk), Jes Bengtson (executive chef of Terrain Café and Amis Trattoria), and Arik Bensimon (executive chef of the Monogram Design Center).

Judges include Brian McGunagle (founder, Westport Pride), Tony Aitoro (CEO, Aitoro Appliance), Matt Storch (chef/owner of Match and Match Burger Lobster), Stephanie Webster (founder/editor-in chief, CTBites) and yours truly (Dan Woog, executive editor of “06880”).

Guests can observe the competition while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and beverages. It’s a fundraiser for Westport Pride — and a great way for the LGBTQ community and allies to get together, get ready for Pride (and eat well). Click here for tickets.

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Meanwhile, there’s always something cooking at Wakeman Town Farm.

Upcoming classes, workshops and more include:

  • “Modern Japanese Cooking with Chef Caroline Fey” (April 27, 7 to 8:30 p.m.). A 4-course menu celebrating modern flavors.
  • “Make Your Own Spa Essentials” (May 2, 7 p.m.). Do it without harmful additives. Take home your own creations!
  • “Blooming with Paints” (May 9, 6 to 8 p.m.). An art workshop brings to life a floral still life arrangement.
  • “Pizza-Making Class for Grades K-1” (May 12, 4:15 to 5:15 p.m.). Topped off with eating!
  • “Learn to Make Goatmilk Soaps” (May 21, 11 a.m. to noon or 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.). Enjoy!

Click here for more information, and to register.

Kids learn pizza-making, using Wakeman Town Farm’s own brick oven.

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Staples High School soccer fans knew Alan Fiore as a passionate, high-scoring attacker.

Music fans will soon know him as an indie pop/rock artist.

The 2021 SHS graduate — now studying at Berklee College of Music — has just released his first song. “Take the Bait!” was inspired by artists like Dayglow, the 195, the Bleachers and COIN.

Alan produced, mixed and mastered it all himself. Click here for links to all streaming platforms. Click here for Alan’s website, and more music.

Alan Fiore

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Whether you’re hunting eggs or afikoman this weekend, Jolantha has you covered.

This was Weston’s favorite pig* yesterday:

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

*Good for Easter ham; not kosher for Passover.

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Nearly every “Westport … Naturally” photo shows an outdoor Westport wonder. That’s (naturally) where most are.

Today, Molly Alger takes us inside the Senior Center for this beautiful, patriotic and Ukrainian-colorful arrangement:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally … today is April 15. It’s also Good Friday. Tomorrow is Saturday. So taxes are not due until Monday (April 18).

Still, because this is the traditional IRS deadline, we present:

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