Tag Archives: I-95

Roundup: I-95, Middle East, Savvy Smoker …

Posted on October 21, 2023 | 1 comment

As scheduled, parts of I-95 were closed last night — along with the northbound Exit 17  entrance and exit ramps, and the southbound exit ramp — as part of the “slide,” to replace the old bridge with the new one.

As expected, traffic — including plenty of trucks — jammed the Post Road.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

The closure is in effect until 6 a.m. Monday (October 23).

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Tomorrow’s forecast is better than today’s.

Sunday’s “Bring Them Home” candlelight vigil on Jesup Green (6 to 6:45 p.m.) — “an opportunity to come together, united as a community, to pray for the safe return of the hostages and show our support for Israel” — is on.

It might be windy. Organizers suggest electric candles, in addition to or in place of ones that might blow out.

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Speaking of Israel: 4 Westporters — Jennifer and Eric Blankfein, and Wendy and Spencer Brown — were on a flight there when Hamas attacked.

They landed at 10:30 on Saturday morning,, October 7.

Jennifer documented their 4 days in Israel on her blog, “Book Nation by Jen.” It’s long, but well worth the time. Click here for “A Trip to the Holy Land; Timing is Everything.” (Hat tip: Betsy Pollak)

Jennifer Blankfein

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Speaking of the Israeli flag: It has appeared many places in Westport.

One spot it has probably never been seen before: Compo Beach.

June Rose Whittaker spotted it there Thursday, draped across one of the benches used often for rest and reflection.

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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Speaking still of the crisis in the Middle East: The Westport Writers’ Workshops is raising funds the best way they know how.

Next Thursday (October 26, 7:30 to 9 p.m., Zoom), Julie Sarkissian will lead a writing circle. All proceeds from the $35 registration fee will provide aid to children affected by the fighting.

Attendees will write together to prompts, and share work aloud. Click here to register.

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Neil Gaiman — noted author of “American Gods,” “Coraline” and “The Sandman” series — kicked off this weekend’s StoryFest at the Westport Library.

His keynote conversation doubled as the Fall 2023 Malloy Lecture in the Arts.

A full slate of events — panel discussions, workshops, children’s activities, a story pitch session and the world premiere of the psychological thriller “Gentle Hacksaw” — take place today and tomorrow.

Click here for a schedule, and more details.

Neil Gaiman, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

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Christian Siriano’s The Collective West will soon have a new neighbor.

It may not be what the fashion designer hoped for, in the former Subway on the Post Road East/West Parish Road corner.

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In addition to the previously announced 8-24 hearing on Parker Harding Plaza, next Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (October 23, 7 p.m., Zoom) includes a proposed text amendment to modify affordable housing standards.

The request — to increased the number of bedrooms from 20 to 24 per gross acre, and authorize approval of off-site affordable housing — would turn 259 Riverside Avenue, currently an office building, into residences.

Click here for the full agenda of Monday’s P&Z meeting.

259 Riverside Avenue.

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La Plage says “adieu” to their patio for the season, in a spooky way.

On Sunday, October 29 (5 p.m. until late), the Longshore restaurant hosts a Halloween Soiree.

On the menu: complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails (“boo-ze”) from Litchfield Distillery, music, and a costume contest.

RSVP by phone (203-684-6232) or email (Info@laplagewestport.com).

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Sustainable Westport’s second Residential Energy Learning series focuses on solar energy. “Everything Solar” is set for the Westport Library on November 7 (6:30 p.m., reception, 6:45 presentation and Q-and-A).

Westport architect John Rountree and Nathan Hernandez, solar consultant, will discuss how to transition your home or business to solar energy. They’ll cover  solar panels, installation companies, design considerations, the expected ROI, and financing options (with federal and state incentives).

Westporter Dan Schlesinger will talk about his recent process of going solar.

The final Residential Learning Series, “Going Geothermal,” is December 12.

Thinking of going solar? See you November 7!

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The Westport Woman’s Club’s annual clothing sale continues this weekend, at their clubhouse at 44 Imperial Avenue.

Check out a wide variety of gently used suits, dresses, pants, blouses, gowns, coats, scarves, shoes, jewelry, handbags and hats.

Hours are today (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Funds raised help support the town’s food closet, many local charities throughout Fairfield County, and need-based student scholarships.

Items for sale at the Westport Woman’s Club.

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We’d love you to check out 4 great houses on our “Historic Homes of 06880” tour on November 5 (2 to 5 p.m.; click here for details).

But there’s another tour that very same day, and in the interest of fairness I’m posting that info too.

Histoury — a non-profit dedicated to preserving and appreciating historic buildings in Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts — is offering a bus tour of Frazier Peters homes in Westport.

It begins at 1 p.m. November 5, and lasts 4 hours. The bus will include 20 stone homes designed by the famed architect, with stops for a few interior looks.

Click here for tickets ($75 for adults, $49 for students).

A typical Frazier Forman Peters home.

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Due to artist availability. the Westport Country Playhouse November 13 Script in Hand play reading has been changed.

“Cleo” has been replaced by “Theatre People,” by Paul Slade Smith.

Based on Ferenc Molnár’s Hungarian farce “Play at the Castle,” this adaptation is a comedy about people in love with theater. But pursuit of a surefire Broadway hit, they might have to give reality a rewrite.

Click here for more information, and tickets to the 7 p.m. play reading.

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Longtime Westporter Edward (Doug) Hyde, Jr. died Wednesday, surrounded by loved ones. He was 85.

The Ridgefield native was a graduate of Fairfield Prep and the University of Detroit. He served proudly as a sergeant in the US Army Reserve.

Doug was a credit analyst in New York, and the owner of Hyde’s Wines & Liquors in Ridgefield. He later bought Beacon Liquor Store in Westport. He also took on the role of manager at Depot Liquors in Saugatuck

He and his wife Joan Masnato, former Westport town clerk, were married for 53 years.

Doug and Joan loved to travel. He found solace and joy in fishing and boating. As an amateur radio operator, he connected with the world through his airwaves.  He also enjoyed reading historical and Stephen King novels, cooking and entertaining.

He is survived by his wife; brothers Brian of Winchester, Virginia and Gary (companion Christine Lamadrid) of Avon; sister Marilyn Gregory of Shelton; nieces Sara Hyde, Marybeth McAllister (John) and Rena Hemmann (Tom); nephews Paul Hyde (Annie), Jason Hyde (Jamie), Kenneth Hyde (Jen S.), William Gregory (Susanna) and Thomas Gregory, and goddaughter Sally Anastos (Tarsey).

A funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday (October 24, St. Pius X Parish, Fairfield). Click here to leave online condolences. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Westport Volunteer EMS, 50 Jesup Rd, Westport CT 06880 or St. Pius X Church, 834 Brookside Drive, Fairfield, CT 06824.

Doug Hyde

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Egrets at the Sherwood Mill Pond always make us smile.

Today — in the golden sun of autumn — they make our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … happy 83rd birthday to Manfred Mann.

You know his band. But the South African/English keyboardist was not its lead singer. That was Paul Jones.

But he did sing with another, later group, also named for him: Manfred Mann’s Earth Band.

(Just another regular “Roundup” — in other words, everything you need to know in Westport today. If you like what you learn, please consider a contribution to “06880.” Click here — and thank you!)

 

1 Comment

Posted in Environment, Library, Obituaries, Transportation

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Roundup: Israel Support, I-95 Detours, Aid In Dying Legislation …

Posted on October 14, 2023 | 23 comments

Last Sunday — just 24 hours after Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel — 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker released a strong statement.

She said then:

The attack on Israel and its citizens is horrifying. There is no justification for senseless acts of violence.

I as the 1st Selectwoman of Wesetport, along with our residents, stand with the people of Israel as they defend their country in the face of unspeakable terrorist acts.

Many Westporters have family and friends in Israel. Our community is profoundly affected by this tragedy. I extend my deepest condolences for the lives lost.

We are with you, Israel.

She reiterated her words yesterday. In a joint statement, Tooker and TEAM Westport chair Harold Bailey said:

TEAM Westport joins the Town of Westport and our First Selectwoman in offering its deepest solidarity and sorrow to the people of Israel for the unspeakable and unfathomable acts of inhumanity they have suffered at the hands of Hamas. As such, we also decry any attempts to justify or celebrate those atrocities. While there is much to be done to ensure stability over the long-term, in whatever is done, we urge the unrelenting focus on the humanity of all potential victims involved.

On the home front, we fully support the increased protection of the Jewish community within Westport and the greater U.S.  against the rising  scourge of antisemitism. Overall, we encourage all segments of our community to join as one in this support with the full understanding that when one of us is harmed, we are all harmed.

Many town officials — including 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, in the front row directly in front of Senator Richard Blumenthal  — were at Monday’s solidarity gathering at Temple Israel. (Photo/Allison Wachstein)

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Plan ahead!

The I-95 northbound entrance ramp at Exit 17 will be closed beginning Monday, October 16 through Friday, October 31. The closure is part of the ongoing bridge rehabilitation project. Traffic will be detoured to Riverside Avenue, then to the Post Road, Sherwood Island Connector, and onto Exit 18.

In addition, parts of I-95 itself will be closed — as will the northbound Exit 17  entrance and exit ramps, and the southbound exit ramp — along with nearby Saugatuck Avenue, from 8 p.m. Friday, October 20, through 6 a.m. Monday, October 23.

The closures are necessary for the new I-95 northbound bridge to be placed using Accelerated Bridge Construction techniques. While I-95 northbound is closed, 2 lanes of I-95 northbound traffic will be crossed over on the I-95 southbound bridge. Traffic flow in both directions will be severely impacted all weekend.

For additional information on the project, including detours, click here.

The I-95 Exit 17 entrance and exit ramps were closed intermittently last week. Blasting helped prepare the site for the “bridge slide” coming soon.

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For several years, James Naughton has been a passionate, articulate advocate for proposed medical aid in dying state legislation.

On Monday (October 16, 7 p.m., Westport Library) the Tony-winning actor and Weston resident — whose wife died after a long battle with pancreatic cancer — leads an important discussion.

“Medical Aid in Dying: Connecticut Wants It; Why Isn’t It the Law?” includes State Representative Jonathan Steinberg (former co-chair of the Public Health Committee); State Senator Ceci Maher; filmmaker Maribeth Abrams, who is producing a documentary about advocate Kim Hoffman, who died in 2022, and Tim Appleton, campaign director of Compassion & Choices.

Click here for more information, and to register.

James Naughton

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“Houdini” (Jackson) and well over 100 other Club 203 guests packed the Senior Center Thursday, for the social club for adults disabilities monthly get-together.

Houdini (aka Jackson) at the Club 203 Halloween party.

This one was (of course) Halloween-themed. Attendees enjoyed Spooky Bingo, a barbecue, baked goods, candy (of course) and more.

Senior Center staff helped facilitate the event. Sweet P Bakery, Fresh Market, Stop & Shop and CVS provided donations, while MOCA led “frightening” art projects. Club 203 co-founders Stacie Curran and Sharuna Mahesh also thanked the many volunteers who helped.

Good times at the Senior Center, for Club 203 members and friends.

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Speaking of Halloween:

This is the coven, at the corner of Hillandale and West Parish Roads:

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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In what has become an annual tradition, RTM members celebrated Restaurant Week with a lunch last yesterday. This year’s site: Zucca, which has replaced Tarry Lodge in Saugatuck.

On hand were 24 of the 36 representatives, plus 2 former moderators (assistant town attorney Eileen Lavigne Flug and Velma Heller), plus Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton and Tatiana Plachi of the town clerk’s office.

Pro tip: Restaurant Week is actually two weeks. The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event ends tomorrow (Sunday). For a list of restaurants and their special deals, click here.

RTM members and friends celebrate Restaurant Week at Zucca.

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Amidst a gaggle of signs — for political candidates, upcoming galas, sports registration, driveway paving companies and everything else — there is a new, official looking one, in the rear of Compo Acres Shopping Center, by Compo Road South:

That’s a sign we can all agree belongs there. 988 is the new, important, easy-to-remember 24-hour hotline for people in crisis, including those considering suicide.

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Fred Cantor and his wife Debbie Silberstein recently visited their former neighbors, Gordon and Dot Hall.

They’ve lived in the same house near Hillspoint Road since 1955.

Dot recently celebrated her 92nd birthday. Gordon will soon be 96.

This fall marks the 70th anniversary of the beginning of their Westport teaching careers.

Fred wonders if there are any other married teaching couples around from the 1950s?

To which I’ll add: Are there any other teachers — period — from that decade still in Westport?

Dot and Gordon Hall (Photo/Fred Cantor)

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Westport was not the only artists’ colony in these parts.

Weston had a robust arts history too. On November 15 and 16 (6:30 p.m.), the Weston History & Cultural Center offers a look into their lives — along with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and insights from curator Laurie Weiss.

It’s called “Weston Illustrated: Penned, Painted and Sculpted.” Among the featured artists, who lived and/or worked in Weston during the first half of the 20th century: Wood Cowan, Charles and James Daugherty, Stevan Dohanos, John Held Jr., Ada “Johnny” Held, William Meade Prince, Laura Gardin Fraser and Stuart Benson

The event is limited to 12 people per night. Tickets $30 for members, $40 for non-members) include a signature cocktail and light appetizers. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Aspetuck Land Trust’s next “Lunch & Learn” webinar is Friday (October 20, noon to 1:15 p.m.).

The topic is “Cultivating Backyard Habitat for Pollinators in Every Season.” It will be led by Desiree Narango, conservation scientist at the Vermont Center for Ecostudies.

Click here to register, and for more information.

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Diva Showstoppers — featuring a Glinda and Elphaba from the Broadway company of “Wicked” — flies into Westport for two shows on one day this winter: January 20.

“Good Witch/Bad Witch” has entertained audiences across the US, with its vocals and banter.

It’s recommended for ages 7 and up — including parents. All tickets are $40. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Former Staples High School assistant coach Ty Matthew Guarente died Wednesday, surrounded by his family. He was 28.

His obituary says: “the son of the late Lisa Marie Guarente and Gary Guarente faced life’s challenges with remarkable bravery, inspiring all who knew him. Despite the obstacles he encountered, his spirit remained unbreakable. He touched the lives of many with his kindness, resilience, infectious smile and sense of humor.”

Ty was a 2012 graduate of Brien McMahon High School, where he was a varsity letterman in football, wrestling and lacrosse. He earned a bachelor of science in sports management from West Virginia University. He was treasurer and head of recruiting for Theta Chi fraternity.

After graduating Ty returned home to Norwalk and began a career in coaching, impacting the lives of student-athletes at several local high schools across many different sports, including football, wrestling and lacrosse.

“Despite being involved in a car accident in 2019 that deprived him of the ability to walk, Ty endured, continuing his coaching career and remaining a fixture in the local sports community. His family and many friends from both near and far made sure that Ty was never without love and support, and he cherished every call, text, and visit.”

In addition to his father, Ty is survived by his brother Michael (Luz), sisters Jessica Guarente and Jessica Wilchfort (William), brother John Andresen (Jennifer), 8 nieces and nephews, and grandmother Ginger Sollazzo Raymond.

A celebration of Ty’s life will be held tomorrow (Sunday, October 15, 3 to 7 p.m., Collins Funeral Home, Norwalk). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday (October 16, 10 a.m., St. Matthew Church, Norwalk).

Ty Guarente

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Today is not much of a beach day.

But yesterday was. Lauri Weiser spotted this scene — just right for “Westport … Naturally.”

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … Rudolph Isley, one of the Isley Brothers as well as a co-writer of many of their hits during their decades-long (and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame) career, died Wednesday in his sleep, at his Chicago home. He was 84.

The Isley Brothers pre-dated the Beatles (who had a hit with their cover of the group’s “Twist and Shout”), and lasted long after the Fab 4 disbanded. Click here for a full obituary.

Here are just 3 of their classics:

(It’s your thing … do what you want to do! But please consider a contribution to “06880.” Just click here. Thank you!)

23 Comments

Posted in Arts, Education, Environment, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Candidates’ Debate, I-95 Closures, First Student Buses …

Posted on September 29, 2023 | 8 comments

Election Day is closer than you think.

If you want to make decisions based on more than yard signs, come to the Westport League of Women Voters’ candidate debates.

There are 3, all in the Town Hall auditorium. Planning & Zoning Commission candidates take the stage on October 11 (7 p.m.). They’re followed by a double-header October 12: the Board of Education at 7 p.m., Board of Finance at 8:15.

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The I-95 reconstruction project is getting more complicatd.

I-95 north and southbound between Exits 17, and the southbound Exit 17 ramp will be closed periodically between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., from October 2 to October 27.

Traffic will be detoured along the Sherwood Island Connector, Post Road and Riverside Avenue.

The state Department of Transportation says closures will be “not more than 15 minutes” at a time.

Should be fun!

Work continues on the I-95 project. (Photo/Dave Stone)

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Yesterday morning, superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice promised that the buses parked at Staples High School — a temporary solution, while First Student searches for a permanent site — would be relocated to the Greens Farms train station by early next week.

A couple of hours later — before noon — they were already there.

Westport school buses, at their new Greens Farms train station home.

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Westport Transit District co-directors Peter Gold and Karina Betfarhad will be at the Saugatuck train station next Tuesday (October 3, 6 to 10 a.m.; sidewalk near the elevator on the westbound side, corner of Franklin Street and Railroad Place). They’ll meet commuters (and anyone else who wants to attend).

Peter and Karina want to hear what people think about Wheels2U, and transportation issues in Westport overall.

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Ever since Evan Sheiber was born with half a heart (hypo-plastic right heart syndrome). his mother Britt Melsheimer has fundraised for research and support.

“Hoops for Heart” is her latest project (October 15, 10 a.m., Westport Weston Family YMCA).

It’s a non-competitive basketball tournament for players over 10 years old. No experience is necessary.

All money raised supports the Fontan Registry at Boston Children’s Hospital. Click below for a superb video about the registry. (It includes Evan, his twin brother James, Britt, and Evan’s cardiologist.

Teams are already established (Bird and SolidCore have created teams; the other 7 are local families). Click here to be added to one. Spectators are welcome. Click here to make a tax-deductible donation. and for more information.

 Granola Bar and Stylish Spoon are donating breakfasts. There’s also a raffle, with Invisalign & Zoom by Imperial Dental Associates, and diamond hoop earrings and a $500 gift card from Sarah Kaplan owner of Middlemarch.

DJ Mo hosts the event, ensuring an especially fun time.

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UPDATE: THIS GAME HAS ALREADY BEEN CLAIMED! DO NOT CLICK COMMENTS — IT’S TAKEN!

While downsizing, Anne DiFrancesco and her sister recently found an original, never-played “Game of Westport.”

They contacted the Westport Museum for History & Culture several times, but never heard back. So now they’re offering it to a lucky “06880” reader.

The first person to claim it through the “Comments” section below gets it.

Game on!

UPDATE: THIS GAME HAS ALREADY BEEN CLAIMED! DO NOT CLICK COMMENTS — IT’S TAKEN!

“Game of Westport”

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Natalie Chudowsky is missing a few games for the Staples High School girls soccer team.

She’s got a good excuse: The defender in West Palm Beach, Florida, at a training camp for the Under-16 national team.

Natalie and 23 others are eligible for the team that will attempt to qualify for next year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Check out her highlight reel:

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Speaking of Staples students on the national stage: 3 juniors are heading to France.

The Institution Saint Joseph in Le Havre has invited Staples to the 10th  ‘Normandy International Youth Leadership Summit (November 27 to December 1). School officials selected Mia Bombeck (an “06880” intern!), Ryder Levine and Sam Rossoni, as high performing students interested in world affairs.

They’ll join representatives from Brazil, South Africa, Netherlands, Great Britain, Italy, Romania, Costa Rica, Mexico, Singapore, Thailand, Spain, Turkey, Poland, Finland, Senegal, Indonesia and Estonia at the event.

Félicitations!

From left: Ryder Levine, Mia Bombeck, Sam Rossoni.

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Due to incorrect information provided to “06880,” the address published yesterday for donations to the Oyebog Tennis Academy was incorrect.

Gently-used items — racquets, gear, shoes, even household items — can be dropped off today and tomorrow (Saturday, September 30) at 104 Long Lots Road — not Lane.

Fortunately, there are no surprised homeowners. 104 Long Lots Lane does not exist.

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Every year around this time, a cashmere pop-up shop pops up at a new location.

This year it’s 180 Post Road East (the Da Tapas building).

It opens October 6, and runs through December 17. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. (Hat tip: Patti Brill)

Cashmere

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Bed Beth & Beyond has gone to, well, the great beyond.

The sign on the bankrupt chain was carted away yesterday.

In its place: a new one, for Summit Health.

(Photo and hat tip/Dinkin Fotografix)

So it looks like — contrary to media reports earlier this month — the new tenant in the space just over the Norwalk border will not be a combined Bob’s/Eastern Mountain Sports store.

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“Innovators in Wellness Week” begins October 2 at Pause + Purpose (21 Jesup Road).

Five days of special events highlight local businesses that “blend the wisdom of old and new, and offer groundbreaking approaches to nurture your mind, body and soul.”

There are speakers, Q-and-As, massages and more. Clear here for details.

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Andrew Colabella’s night view at Compo Beach, looking north, “stars” as today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo:

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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And finally … in honor of Andrew Colabella’s “starry night” image above:

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(Daytime, nighttime, 24/7/365 — “06880” is here for you. Please help us continue our work. Click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

8 Comments

Posted in Local business, Local politics, Sports, Staples HS, Transportation, YMCA

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Roundup: RTM, Wet Weather, CraftWestport …

Posted on September 24, 2023 | 12 comments

John McCarthy wrote to Representative Town Meeting moderator Jeff Weiser, deputy moderator Lauren Karpf and Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton:

“I was surprised to see that the below resolution was not placed on the RTM Agenda for its October 3 meeting:

‘RESOLVED,  that the full Westport RTM at its October 3, 2023 meeting affirms that the  meaning of the term ‘Shall’ in ‘Sec. A162-6. – Agenda’ of the ‘Representative Town Meeting Rules of Procedures’ as found in Exhibit A of the ‘Code of Ordinances of Westport Connecticut’ is  to be ‘construed as being mandatory’, per the definition of the word ‘Shall’  in ‘Sec. 1-2. – Definitions and rules of construction’ and that ‘Sec. A162-6. – Agenda’ compels and requires  the Moderator, or  in the event of the Moderator’s inability to act, the Deputy Moderator or, in the event of the inability of both, the Town Clerk to place on the RTM meeting agenda such matters as petitioned by at least 20 Westport Electors not less than 14 days prior to a Representative Town Meeting.”

A petition with over 20 electors was certified by the town clerk on September 5, McCarthy says.

He adds, “I trust that this was merely an oversight and that a corrected version of the agenda with the requested resolution will be issued shortly.”

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Early yesterday morning, Philip Keane headed to Compo Beach. A storm was brewing, and he wanted to see it.

He got the waves he expected.

But he also found 2 swimmers. Rick Gaenzle and Chris Kraus told Philip they swim every morning, at 5:30.

A little rain and wind was not about to keep them away.

Rick Gaenzle and Chris Kraus. (Photos/Philip Keane)

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CraftWestport returns to the Staples High School fieldhouse November 4-5. Over 175 vendors kick off the holiday shopping season, with thousands of products in mediums like ceramics, textiles, woodworking, jewelry, glass art and more.

Plus food items like bourbon-barrel aged maple syrup, hand-painted chocolates, teas, honey, cheese spreads, curds, baked goods, and skincare products, soaps, candles, etc.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All-weekend admission is $11; seniors $10, children 12-18 $5, children under 12 are free. Click here for more details. CraftWestport is presented by the Westport Young Woman’s League.

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“Chapter Two: Spanning From Retail to E-Tail” — a benefit supporting expansion of Westport Book Sale’s employment and job training program for adults with disabilities, to its eBay online sales business — is set for October 25 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

The event will include live music, light bites, a paddle raise, and a live and silent auction of a sample of what the Book Sale sells on eBay.

Click here to see auction items. They include a first edition of Saint-Exupery’s The Little Prince; 2 copies of The New Yorker in Westport donated by authors Eve Potts and Andrew Bentley; books signed by Laura Linney; a poster autographed by Sylvester Stallone; art donated by Nina Bentley, Miggs Burroughs, Kirsten Rao, Norm Siegel, and Rowene Weems, and more.

Participants in the online sales business will learn computer, data entry and office skills, broadening their work experience and marketability.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Eager beavers will be excited about this year’s Aspetuck Land Trust Haskins Lecture.

Leila Philip — author of the bestseller “Beaverland” — speaks at the Westport Library on October 26 (7 p.m.).

She’ll discuss the animal’s large role in American history, and even larger role in our ecological future. Books will be available for purchase, and signing.

Aspetuck Land Trust will also host 2 beaver hikes (October 12 and 22) at Trout Brook Valley Preserve in Weston. Click here for details of that, and other events.

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What kid doesn’t love “The Lightning Thief”?

On December 2, the Westport Country Playhouse presents a production of the young adult novel. The musical follows Percy jackson as he discovers he’s a demigod.

It’s recommended for grades 3-6. Click here for tickets ($25) and more information.

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Rowene Weems saw this as she got off I-95 at Exit 17 on Friday:

(Photo/Rowene Weems)

“Is it the Golden Arches over Westport?” she wondered.

“M for ‘Magnificent work and inconvenience’? M for ‘Maybe they’ll be done before 2025?’ You could go on, right? 🤣”

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This guy clung yesterday to Johanna Keyser Rossi’s screen door.

It looks like he’s posing for our “Westport … Naturally” feature. More likely, Johanna says, he was seeking shelter under the overhang, from the rain.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … in honor of the kerfuffle over the word “shall” (story above):

(Kerfuffles, controversies — they’re all part of the local journalism you find on “06880.” Please click here to support your hyperlocal blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Children, Entertainment, Environment, Transportation, Weather, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: jUNe Day, Beach Smoking Ban, Police Reports …

Posted on June 22, 2023 | 27 comments

Two longstanding local traditions — the Sunrise Rotary Great Duck Race, and Westport Downtown Association Sidewalk Sale — take place this weekend.

There’s also a third. And this one has an even longer history: over 60 years.

jUNe Day will be celebrated all over town on Saturday (June 24). United Nations diplomats, staff members and their families will spend the day here, having fun and enjoying special activities.

At 10:30 a.m. on Jesup Green — as part of the Great Duck Race celebration — UN Under-Secretary General General Christian Saunders will deliver a message from Secretary General António Guterres.

Options for our guests include Earthplace, Wakeman Town Farm, Compo Beach, tennis and golf at Longshore, and a soccer match (UN vs. Westport Knights, 11:30 a.m., PJ Romano Field).

UN visitors can also enjoy the Duck Race and Sidewalk Sales. Nearby, they’ll see flags from many UN member countries flying on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.

That’s an apt sight. Steinkraus Cohen was one of the founders of jUNe Day, more than 6 decades ago. She was a longtime member of the United Nations Association of Southwestern Connecticut too, which sponsors the annual event in cooperation with the town of Westport.

For questions or more information, call Bill Hass: 203-454-7685 or 203-434-6609.

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Westport’s Parks & Recreation Commission voted unanimously last night to ban tobacco and cannabis smoking at all beaches, and certain parts of recreational facilities, like playgrounds, pools, fields and athletic courts.

The regulation — which includes a 25-foot buffer — does not include the golf course, or passive recreation areas like Winslow or other town parks.

No longer legal at the beach.

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Speaking of the law: Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between June 14 and 21.

One was for disorderly conduct, following a domestic violence incident.

The other was for issuing a bad check, worth $12,945.50, to a local business.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations; 8 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle while texting: 2
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 2
  • Improper use of markers: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Assault, 3rd degree: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Failure to drive right: 1
  • Improper turn: 1
  • Improper use of high beams: 1
  • Failure to display plates: 1
  • Littering: 1

Don’t be a litterbug! (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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Housing. Transportation. Gun safety.

Those were just a few of the topics Connecticut’s General Assembly voted on in the session that ended just a few days ago. (Oh, yeah: the budget too!)

Three local legislators — State Senator Ceci Maher, and State Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson — host a “wrap-up” discussion at the Westport Library next Wednesday (June 28, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Komansky Room).

On the agenda: successes (and failures), plus goals for the future.

Senator Ceci Maher, Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson.

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It’s one of the most prestigious and elite legal programs around.

For 50 years, the Supreme Court Fellows Program has offered 4 positions a year to mid-career professionals, recent law school graduates and doctoral degree holders. Founded by former Supreme Court Chief Justice Warren Berger, it draws over 1,000 applicants.

One of the appointees this year is Viviana Vasiu. A Westport and Brooklyn resident, she will be assigned to the US Sentencing Commission.

A former clerk for 2 US District Court judges, she participated in the Attorney General’s Honors Program at the Department of Justice. She earned a BA summa cum laude, and a JD magna cum laude, from Stetson University, where she served as editor-in-chief of the Law Review.

But there’s more to the story. Viviana came alone to the US at 18, from Romania. She enrolled at a community college in San Diego, and within a year earned a paralegal certificate. She was the Stetson’s first-ever immigrant and English major valedictorian.

Congratulations, attorney Vasiu!

Viviana Vasiu

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The I-95 bridge in Philadelphia will be repaired — and reopened — barely 2 weeks after it collapsed, during a truck fire.

Meanwhile, work on I-95 in Westport — which did not collapse — appears to be on schedule for its completion date of November, 2038.

The Post Road project should be finished a week or two before that.

(Photo/Monica Herndon for Philadelphia Inquirer)

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The Westport Rotary Club has a new president.

Outgoing chief Karl Mergenthaler handed the gavel to Kenny Epstein last night, at Ned Dimes Marina.

Dozens of Rotarians attended the annual event.

Incoming Rotary president Kenny Epstein (left) and outgoing leader Karl Mergenthaler. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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The next exhibition at Amy Simon Fine Art opens June 24.

Titled “Fresh!,” it features Charlie Bluett, Carla Goldber and Takefumi Hori. It runs through August 5. Click here for more information.

“These Precious Pieces We Find” (Charlie Bluett)

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Tracy Porosoff’s garden burst with color this week, as her first dahlia of the year bloomed.

Fittingly, it’s our first “Westport … Naturally” dahlia of the year.

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … 2 takes on the new smoking ban (story above).

You can no longer smoke at the beaches, tennis courts, athletic fields and related recreational facilities …

… but you can still light up on the golf course, Winslow Park and other spots.

(As jUNe Day nears, a reminder: “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please consider a contribution, to help us continue our work. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Friday Flashback #343

Posted on April 14, 2023 | 8 comments

Last week’s Friday Flashback showed Ken Montgomery’s Old Mill store — one of several predecessors of the current Old Mill Grocery & Deli.

It had been his mother’s market. He joined her, after his original place — on the corner of Bridge Street and Compo Road South — was demolished, to make way for the new Connecticut Turnpike (now called I-95).

I’d never seen a photo of it. Then, just days after that Friday Flashback, Pamela Docters posted an old Westport Town Crier newspaper clipping on Facebook:

As the caption notes, Ken wanted to move the “retail landmark” to property he owned opposite the old Saugatuck Elementary School (now The Saugatuck co-op housing complex). His request was denied.

The caption also says that he hoped to return with a new store once the highway was finished.

That never happened. But the Old Mill store was good to him.

And Ken was good to his town. When he died, he left a $500,000 gift to the Westport YMCA.

Pamela posted a couple of other fascinating doomed-by-the-thruway photos.

This one, from June 7, 1956, shows houses moved to Dr. Gillette Circle.

Dr. Gillette Circle is off Davenport Avenue, which itself is accessed by Ferry Lane West off Saugatuck Avenue — adjacent to I-95 Exit 17.

Indian Hill Road — also part of the neighborhood — is now sliced in two by the highway. It once connected, all the way north to Treadwell Avenue.

Dr. Gillette Circle is once again buffeted by change. The 157-unit Summit Saugatuck development is a few yards away, on Hiawatha Lane Extension.

As for I-95, recent state Department of Transportation work has radically altered the landscape first created when the turnpike was built. It took 70 years for trees and vegetation to grow. Now it’s all gone.

Of course, as thruway construction took place Saugatuck was not the only neighborhood affected. Another photo posted by Pam shows a Greens Farms home — already 125 years old — being moved 700 feet away from the new route’s right-of-way, to Turkey Hill South.

The Connecticut Turnpike cut a wide swath through Westport. It changed Saugatuck forever, and made an enormous impact everywhere else.

Three-quarters of a century later, most of us cannot imagine life here without it.

But there are still Westporters, and former residents, alive who do.

(If you enjoy our Friday Flashbacks, please consider supporting “06880.” Click here — and thank you!)

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Pic Of The Day #2126

Posted on February 11, 2023 | 1 comment

I-95 construction work, near Charles Street (Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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Friday Flashback #332

Posted on January 27, 2023 | 7 comments

Continuing our Friday Flashback series of old aerial photos, Richard Jaffe sent this fascinating view of Westport before the mid-1950s, when I-95 slashed through town.

The image — looking west (at the top) shows Saugatuck on the right, between the railroad and Cribari bridges — without the highway in between.

The Bridge Street/South Compo Road/Greens Farms Road intersection looks quite a bit different — and as does Greens Farms Road itself (curving, near the center of the shot).

Some parts of town have plenty of trees. Others have none.

What else do you see of interest? Click “Comments” below.

(Please click here to keep features like the Friday Flashback — and all of “06880” — coming. Thank you!)

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Pic Of The Day #1842

Posted on May 3, 2022 | 1 comment

Train tracks, river and I-95 (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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Roundup: Affordable Housing, Gilbertie’s, I-95 Noise …

Posted on April 13, 2022 | 9 comments

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Last night’s meeting on a 5-year plan for affordable housing — co-sponsored by the Democratic, Republican, Save Westport Now and Coalition for Westport political parties — drew some interesting comments.

Among them: a proposal to install metered parking downtown. The proceeds — estimated to be $1 million or so annually — could be used to create a substantial affordable housing fund.

With Westport’s credit rating, the town could borrow $20 million.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Planning & Zoning Commission chair Danielle Dobin at last night’s Town Hall meeting on affordable housing. (Photo/Jimmy Izzo)

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A couple of months ago, “06880” gave a shout-out to Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center. This year, Westport’s 2nd-oldest family business celebrates its 100th anniversary.*

At the time, they were beginning to plan a huge celebration. Now they’re ready to announce details.

The free bash is set for June 4, from noon to 5 p.m. at the garden center on Sylvan Lane South.

The very popular Mystic Bowie’s Talking Dreads will headline the bash. Reggae artists Kale Wale will warm up the crowd.

There’s a petting zoo for kids, and artisans and craft vendors for older folks.

Also on tap: a town-wide scavenger hunt too, with prizes. It will focus on the town’s most historic business, ending (of course) at Gilbertie’s.

Plus 3 food trucks, an ice cream truck and beer vendors.

Antonio Gilbertie — who arrived in Saugatuck in 1919 from Italy, and started out selling flowers from a Sylvan greenhouse — probably listened to opera, not reggae. But he’ll probably be looking down from above, with a proud smile.

*Who’s #1? Gault — by a long shot. The energy company was founded in 1863 — nearly 60 years before Gilberties!

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“06880” reader Jim McKay* wants to raise a ruckus.

His subject: noise.

Jim writes: “In 1958, I-95 sliced through Saugatuck, and other areas of Westport.

“A lot has changed since then. There’s more people, more traffic, more trucks. And more noise.

“The Connecticut Department of Transportation has a number of redesign plans for sections of 95. They include Greenwich, and Westport/Norwalk.

“A few days ago, under pressure from Greenwich town leaders and citizens, Governor Lamont asked CT DOT to revisit the Greenwich project and include possible noise mitigation plans.

“Now is the time for our Westport town leaders and citizens to demand equal revisions to the existing plans, to make sure it include noise mitigation.

“Noise has gotten worse. It will continue to do so. We have a unique opportunity to include noise mitigation before the project goes forward. It must be an incremental cost now — not a massive capital project 20 years in the future.”

*Not the sportscaster. He died in 2008.

Traffic — and noise — have increased since I-95 (then called the Connecticut Turnpike) neared completion in 1957,

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Staples Players’ production of “The Descendants” drew raves. Audiences old and (particularly) young delighted in a never-bef0re-seen production of Disney’s tale.

It’s a tradition for the high school troupe to raise awareness of important causes — and funds — at their shows. This year was especially important.

Costumed actors were on hand as audiences left the theater. It turned into a great photo opportunity for children, and their new high school heroes.

Their parents gave generously. Over 2 weekends, Players collected $8,400 for Save the Children’s Ukraine relief efforts.

Quinn Mulvey (Mal), and a new friend. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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On Saturday, a Westporter was out for a run. A few yards over the Fairfield line, where Old Road becomes Wakeman Lane, he spotted a car balanced on a stone wall, halfway into the woods.

That was bad enough. But the kicker is the bumper sticker.

It reads: “Please Be Patient. Student Driver.”

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There are matching grants. And then there are amazing matching grants.

Two anonymous donors have told Westport Country Playhouse they’ll match every dollar raised — up to $150,000 (!) — between now and June 30.

That’s great news, as the historic theater enters its 91st season. They’ve got an ambitious set of plays planned, and will leverage the funds for greatest artistic and educational impact.

Tax deductible contributions can be made online, by mail (Development Department, 25 Powers Court, Westport CT 06880), or by texting DONATE to 475-453-3553. To learn more about the perks of donating at various levels, click here. For more on this matching drive, click here.

A historic theater has a historic opportunity to raise funds. (Photo/Robert Benson)

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There are runners. And then there are amazing runners.

Monday’s New York Times included a story on Oz Pearlman. He’d just run 19 loops of Central Park — 116 miles — in a single day.

Because “06880”‘s tagline is “Where Westport meets the world,” there is (of course) a local connection.

The main photo showed Oz with a group of runners. Just to his right — wearing a blue-and-yellow hat, to match Oz’s Ukrainian-color outfit — was Alex Freedman.

Alex Freedman (blue and yellow cap) next to Oz Pearlman. (Photo/Hilary Swift for the New York Times)

Freedman — the 1996 Staples High School salutatorian — is now back in town, and running with the local Joggers Club. He is also a founding member of the Central Park Running Club. Both are led by another Westporter, Dave Menoni.

Freedman runs with a third group, the Henwood Hounds. That’s where he met Oz. Freedman joined in for “a small part” of Oz’s Central Park (and record-breaking) journey. (It was also a fundraiser for Save the Children’s Ukrainian relief. Oz busted well past his goal of $100,000.)

When he’s not outside, Freedman is the director of Advantage Testing of Westport,

Notice I resisted the impulse to say he “runs” the highly regarded educational counseling and private tutoring organization.

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Savvy + Grace’s new sign has brought color to that stretch of Main Street, and smiles to passersby.

Most probably don’t know that it’s the work of a noted artist.

Jana Ireijo is famous for her “vanishing murals.” Created with charcoal from wildfires, they are meant to disappear — just as the coral reefs, manta rays and other living things she portrays are, unfortunately, dying out.

Ireijo — a member of the Artists Collective of Westport — has created vanishing murals here. She drew a koala bear opposite Design Within Reach, and a sperm whale on a Winslow Park fallen tree trunk.

She’s worked far from Westport too — in Santa Fe and Maui, among other places.

The peonies on Jana’s Savvy + Grace sign is not meant to disappear. It’s just a colorful addition to a bright downtown spot.

PS: Savvy + Grace offers great custom and pre-made Easter baskets. Click here to see.

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Among his many civic efforts — all of them volunteer, pro bono — attorney Ken Bernhard is a state Department of Agriculture animal (victim’s) advocate. He appears in court proceedings involving animal cruelty cases.

At yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting, he talked about his work. He connected animal abuse with spousal abuse and other crimes.

Bernhard noted:

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.

“When humans act with cruelty, we characterize them as ‘animals.’ Yet the only animal that displays cruelty is humanity.

“Animals are the real victims on this earth. They didn’t declare war, they don’t have weapons, and they don’t want to destroy humans or impose religion. Their only crime is they exist.”

Ken Bernhard, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.

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The Fresh Market ospreys get most of Westport’s love.

But they’re not the only ones in town.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature is a two-fer. Here’s one of the Longshore ospreys:

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

And a pair at Burying Hill:

(Photo/Alan Phillips)

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And finally … all his life, Julian Lennon refused to sing “Imagine.”

The only time he could consider singing his father’s signature song, he said, would be “the end of the world.”

The war in Ukraine is not that (yet). But it spurred John Lennon’s 59-year-old son to reconsider.

It is “an unimaginable tragedy,” he said. “As a human, and as an artist, I felt compelled to respond in the most significant way I could.”

He performed at a #StandUpForUkraine funddraiser in Prague on Saturday. The event raised $10 billion in pledges for Ukrainian refugees.

Imagine!

 

 

 

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