Tag Archives: Linxweiler House

Roundup: Anti-Racism Protest, Joanne Woodward, Linxweiler House …

Posted on February 27, 2024 | 7 comments

A few dozen protesters stood quietly on North Avenue this morning, protesting reports of racial incidents at Staples High School across the street.

The crowd included students and adults. Some parents joined the crowd after dropping their youngsters off at school.

Many held signs. One summed up the feeling of the protesters: “Racism is unacceptable.”

(Photo/Ruby Kantor for Inklings)

(Photo/Ruby Kantor for Inklings)

(Photo/Kevin McLaughlin)

(Photo/Kevin McLaughlin)

(Photo/Kevin McLaughlin)

(Photo/Lily Rimm)

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Happy 94th birthday to a Westport icon: Joanne Woodward.

Over 60 years on stage and television she won an Academy Award, 3 Primetime Emmys, and 3 Golden Globes, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. She is one of the last surviving stars from the Golden Age of Hollywood, and the oldest living Best Actress Oscar-winner.

Just as importantly, she — and her husband, Paul Newman — contributed mightily to the civic life of Westport.

Whether helping save the Westport Country Playhouse or dishing up popcorn at the Westport Historical Society, Joanne Woodward made our town a better place.

Thank you, Joanne. Have a great day!

The happy couple, near their home.

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Among the items at the next Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (Monday, March 4, 7 p.m.; Zoom, and Optimum channel 79 and Frontier channel 6020): a request from First Selectwoman Jen Tooker to temporarily amend the lease at 655 Post Road East (the Linxweiler house, between McDonald’s and Fresh Market) to allow Gillespie Center clients to be housed and supported there temporarily, during renovation of the downtown homeless shelter.

Click here for the full agenda, and additional materials.

Linxweiler House, on Post Road East.

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Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service president Mike Burns gave an in-depth, eye-opening look at the most recent Y’s Women meeting.

Many members were surprised to learn that the 45-year-old non-profit relies entirely on donations. The 75 EMS volunteers — who respond in 7 minutes or less to everything from strokes, seizures and births to accidents on I-95 and the Merritt Parkway (and even incidents on Metro-North) pay for all their own supplies: heart monitors, gurneys ($70,000 each), and ambulances.

WVEMS’ 3 ambulances are 10 years old. The first of 2 new ones will arrive next year — at a cost of $450,000.

All donations are welcome (83% are less than $100); click here.

WVEMS president Mike Burns, at the Y’s Women meeting. (Photo/Jilda Manikas)

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Westport resident Tom Kretsch spent his career as a teacher in the Norwalk schools.

And for almost 40 years he’s been involved with that city’s partnership with Nagarote, Nicaragua. They’ve created and run a community development project that provides opportunities for young people and families to improve their economic and educational lives.

A benefit cabaret — “Spring Into Song” — is set for Sunday, March 24 (5:30 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club).

Attendees can bring food and drink to share at small tables before the music begins. Nine great vocalists — including Westporters Michelle Pauker, Bill Hall and Emily Hall Stevens, and Charlotte Roth of Weston — are donating their talents. They’ll sing tunes from Broadway shows, original music and other covers.

For more information and tickets ($50), email kretscht@yahoo.com.

Michelle Pauker (Photo/Brynn Owen)

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Trumpeter Andy Gravish plays the music of Hank Mobley and Lee Morgan — 2 iconic musicians of the “hard bop school” — at this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (February 29; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $20 music cover charge, $15 for veterans and students).

Gravish performs at top international jazz festival, and has been the featured soloist with the Village Vanguard Orchestra, Toshiko Akiyoshi/Lew Tabackin Big Band, Paquito D’Rivera and many others.

Joining Gravish are pianist Michael Cochrane, bassist Essiet Essiet, drummer Steve Johns, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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It’s been 15 years since the Staples High School Class of 1974 had a reunion.

Now they’re ready for their 50th. And members of adjacent classes — with friends among the ’74 graduates — are invited too.

It’s the weekend of October 18-20. There’s a Friday night social at the VFW, a Saturday night main event with dinner and dancing (and the class’ Mark Santella as DJ) at the Westport Woman’s Club, then Sunday at the Compo Beach Ned Dimes Marina.

Click here for details, and tickets.

Class of 1974 member Alix Land in Long Beach Peninsula, Washington. She lives in Portland, Oregon.

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Lost your license plate?

Someone found it, and propped it up against the post office flagpole:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Kevin LaForce.

He writes: “I saw this beauty trot across the top of Hillspoint Road on Sunday. I tracked him/her to the back of Loretta Court. Pretty cool.”

(Photo/Kevin LaForce)

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And finally … sharing a birthday with Joanne Woodward (story above) is Josh Groban. Happy 43rd birthday, to the platinum-selling singer.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on reader support for all that we do. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Local politics, Staples HS

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Roundup: Linxweiler Stone Wall, Citizens’ Police Academy, Stolen Mail …

Posted on September 4, 2023 | 12 comments

Drivers weaving carefully (and not so carefully) through the Post Road East construction zone just west of McDonald’s have mourned the loss of a dozen or so old trees by the Linxweiler house.

They wonder too what will become of the many large rocks that made up a now-dismantled stone wall, near the trees.

Former stone wall in front of the Linxweiler house.

For once, the news is good.

A Planning & Zoning Commission site plan shows that the original stone wall will be replaced with a new one, continuing around the radius into Crescent Road.

The original was drywall. Hopefully, the next will be the same traditional type.

Congratulations are due town officials, who secured the replacement of the wall. (Hat tip: Michael Calise)

Site plans for Linxweiler house stone wall.

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One of the coolest opportunities anywhere is the Westport Police Department’s 8-week Citizens’ Police Academy.

Participants gain a first-hand understanding of what our officers do, how they do it, and how the WPD fits into our community.

At the same time, residents and officers get to know each other much better.

25 community members participate in classes on law enforcement, and get hands-on experience with equipment. They also join a “ride-along” with an officer — and receive CPR/AED certification.

The program runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursdays from October 5 through November 30 (except before Veterans Day and on Thanksgiving), and Wednesday, December 6.

The academy is open to Westport residents age 21 and older. Applications can also be picked up at police headquarters, and are due by September 18.

Westport’s Citizens Police Academy offers an inside look into every aspect of the department.

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Seen on social media yesterday:

“If you’re like me and all of your mail was stolen from your mailbox on Cross Highway, North Compo or Weston Rd (Friday) night, apparently some of it is floating around near the Willowbrook cemetery.

“With crime the way it’s been around here lately, I guess we should feel lucky our cars weren’t stolen or smashed. It’s just our personal information compromised.”

What a shame — and a hassle. (And for those whose checks are stolen and “whitewashed,” even worse.)

But among the responses was this, which is news to me: “Sign up for ‘USPS Informed Delivery’ free service. You get a daily email, with pictures of every piece of correspondence arriving in your mailbox.”

Not a good idea. It’s an invitation to thieves that there is mail — often a check — inside.

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Yesterday’s Saugatuck Congregational Church service honoring the late Rev. Ted Hoskins was a chance for old friends to remember the longtime senior and youth minister.

It was a chance too for people who never knew him to learn more about one of the founders of Westport’s homeless shelter and food pantry. Today the Gillespie Center for men — and Hoskins Center for women, named for him — and other supportive housing and food projects are run by Homes with Hope.

Rev. Hoskins — who died last month — spent the last couple of decades of his life in Maine. But — as the turnout at his remembrance proved — his mark on Westport is profound, and indelible.

Homes with Hope representatives at Saugatuck Church yesterday (from left): Pete Powell, first president; Rev. Willie Salmond, who initiated the service for Rev. Hoskins; John Walsh, board chair; Helen McAlinden, president; Jeff Wieser, past president.

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If you’re wondering what Dattco is doing, now that they’ve lost the Westport school bus contract …

Yesterday, at Compo Beach. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Last winter, dozens of bagels sat for more than 2 weeks, on High Gate Road of Maple Avenue South.

No one knew where they came from. No one claimed them. No one cleaned them up. (Click here, then scroll down for a Roundup story.)

That was weird.

What’s even weirder is: They’re back.

Chris Grimm — who reported on the first outbreak — sent along this photo:

(Photo/Chris Grimm)

It looks very similar to several months ago.

Except this time, there is a large, unopened bag of bagels too, on the grass.

Very, very weird.

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Dermatologists Dr. Nina Antonov and Dr. Marc Beuttler of Modern Dermatology will provide free full body skin cancer screenings, and/or spot checks, at the Aspetuck Health District (180 Bayberry Lane) on September 26.

Appointments are available between 9 a.m. and noon, and 1-4 p.m. Call 203-227-9571, ext. 235, and ask for Judy. Limited to residents of Westport, Weston and Easton only.

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Speaking of health: Overdose awareness and Narcan training will be held September 26 (7 to 8 p.m., Town Hall Room C201).

It’s sponsored by members of the Westport Prevention Coalition and Westport RTM.

To register and for more information, call 203-227-7644.

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It’s never too early to think about beer.

Wakeman Town Farm’s annual family Beer Garden event is Sunday October 15 (noon to 4 p.m.).

The afternoon features live music by Hitch and the Giddy-Up + Rob Morton, lawn games, bubbles, face painting, photos with mini ponies, and pumpkin crafts for the littles — and a surprise craft by LaurelRock.

Also for adults: Eco Evolution, and a massage therapist for the adults.

Lunch options include pizza by Tony Pizza Napolitano, Food Truck Refinery and Oronoque Farms.

Local beer is sponsored by Greens Farms Spirits, with ice cream from Saugatuck Sweets and Landtech. Ccider donuts and refreshments are courtesy of KMS Team at Compass.

Tickets are $10 for adults; kids are free. Click here to purchase, and for more information. Food and beverage purchases are a la carte. Proceeds benefit Wakeman Town Farm educational programs.

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Two butterflies flitted around the Westport Library yesterday.

As great a photographer as Rowene Weems is, she could not get them together in the same shot.

But even one is wonderful enough for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Rowene Weems)

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And finally … Happy Labor Day!

(“06880” does not even take Labor Day off. If you’d like to leave a tip, please click here.) 

 

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Police, religion, Totally random

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Roundup: Linxweiler Trees, Races & Champions, Ukrainian Eggs …

Posted on March 24, 2023 | 9 comments

The Post Road East improvement project has begun.

The first step — long before installing turn lanes, crosswalks, shoulders and sidewalks on the stretch between Volvo of Westport and New Country Toyota — was the removal of a dozen or so trees.

They stood for decades in front of Linxweiler House — the former blacksmith shop between Fresh Market and McDonald’s, now owned and operate by Homes with Hope.

That property looks a lot different today, than it did last weekend:

Linxweiler House, as seen from Crescent Road …

… and looking east, from near Fresh Market. (Photos/Molly Alger)

The good news: The 2 cherry blossom trees in front of Sakura still stand.

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On your mark … get set … and get ready for the 44th annual Minute Man Races

The popular Westport Young Woman’s League — set for Sunday, April 30 at Compo Beach — includes a 10K run, 5K run/walk, and kids’ fun runs (from 50 yards to 1 mile).

For professionals, it’s a USA Track and Field-certified event. For kids, family-friendly activities will take place during and after the races.

As always, there will be music, food trucks and more.

Student and first responder discounts are offered for the adult races. Contact minuteman@wywl.com for a discount code. Click here to register, and for more information. Proceeds benefit local non-profits.

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Registration is open for the 5th annual Day of Champions.

The event — family-friendly fun (and fierce competition) that raises funds for Experience Camps, the Westport-based network of activities for children who have lost parents or siblings — is May 21 (8:30 to 11:30 a.m., PJ Romano Field).

To create or join a team — or donate — click here.

To get psyched for the event, click the video below.

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Ukrainian Easter Sunday is not until April 16.

But Westport artist Mark Yurkiw — who has Ukrainian heritage, and is a member of the group that raised $252,000 for our sister city, Lyman — is celebrating early.

Throughout his career, he’s been decorating Ukrainian Easter eggs. He sent “06880” a sample of his work:

The red egg in front celebrates the birth of Mark Yurkiw’s son Cooper, in 1994.

In 2001, he created this 5-foot “egg” for the White House.

It was signed by 256 members of Congress.

Slava Ukraini!

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More progress on the house at 233 Hillspoint Road. Town officials halted construction there in 2019, after finding violations of the building permit.

Workers yesterday removed several feet from the top of the chimney. It had been built higher than its legal height.

Workers removing the top of the chimney at 233 Hillspoint. Road. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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In 2020, COVID forced Saugatuck Elementary School to cancel “The Little Mermaid” at the final dress rehearsal —  before the opening curtain.

She’s back!

A new cast of 125 students in grades 3-5 act, sing and dance — and run the lights and sound, help construct and decorate sets and props, and operate special effects.

Saugatuck alums from 2020 (and even some of their parents) have helped with the show! Set designer Julie Colotti, costume designer Miriam Young, and prop managers Alexandra Dodwell and Amy Kopisz incorporated many original pieces, along with new additions.

After his daughter Phoebe returned as a student acting coach, John Nunziato jumped in as artistic designer and special effects consultant.

Shows are Friday, March 31 (7 p.m.) and Saturday, April 1 (1 and 6:30 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.

“The Little Mermaid,” at Saugatuck Elementary School. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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You can’t autograph an Mp3 download.

But you sure can sign a vinyl album.

VersoFest’s headliners and guests, including producer Steve Lillywhite, Psychedelic Furs front man Richard Butler, and Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club drummer Chris Frantz and bassist Tina Weymouth, will autograph copies of their records, for giveaways and auction items during next weekend’s VersoFest.

Festivalgoers can submit their entries for the giveaway starting with the March 30 kickoff concert featuring rising American rock band Sunflower Bean.

Submissions are open through Sunday, April 2. That final day features a record fair (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and a vinyl record panel brunch with WPKN DJ Alec Cumming, producer Dooley-O, Kraftjerkz Records’ Kid Ginseng, WFUV DJ and House of Wax host Eric Holland, New Haven Independent arts reporter Karen Ponzio, and moderated by the Zambonis’ Dave Schneider.

The silent auction (April 1-2) offers a chance to bid on a variety of signed albums associated with the festival’s speakers and guests. All proceeds support future VersoFests.

For more information, including concert tickets and workshops registration, click here.

VersoFest vinyl.

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Speaking of music: The Grammy for Best Children’s Album went to Kaitlin McGaw, and her group Alphabet Rockers. (Sure, it was in February. But I just found out. It’s still worth sharing!)

And it’s “06880”-worthy because she’s the granddaughter of longtime Westporters Ed and Kay See.

Ed — an attorney — was longtime town counsel. He played a key role in Westport’s purchase of Longshore, in 1959.

Kay supported many local causes. She was on the Westport Library board, when the new building was built.

The See family’s stained glass window hangs over the altar of Assumption Church, near the Josê Feliciano window.

Eloise See — Ed and Kay’s daughter — is Kaitlin’s proud mother. Sandy is her equally proud uncle.

The award was even more special, because the presenter was presidential inaugural poet — and Kaitlin’s fellow Harvard graduate — Amanda Gorman.

Alphabet Rockers produces and performs music and dance that promotes racial and gender awareness.

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The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport is a beautiful building.

On April 1 (8 p.m.), its the site too of Damn Tall Buildings.

That’s the hot bluegrass/indie/roots/old-time/vintage swing/Americana band from Brooklyn. The trio will headline the UU’s Voices Café.

There’s table or individual seating. Bring your own beverages and snacks, or buy at the sweet treats table. General admission: $25 per person. A portion of the proceeds support the congregation’s Social Justice Council. Click here for tickets (live and livestream), and more information.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo proves: There’s nothing like a nice early spring day to put the top down, and enjoy the sun.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … on this date in 1721, – Johann Sebastian Bach dedicated 6 concertos to Margrave Christian Ludwig of Brandenburg-Schwedt. Today we know them as the Brandenburg Concertos.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We’re a non-profit, dedicated to bringing the community together. We rely on your (tax-deductible) contributions. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

9 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Library, Real estate, Transportation

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Ray Of Hope: Sakura Trees May Be Saved

Posted on March 18, 2023 | 7 comments

Westport will look very different — very soon.

Work is imminent on a state Department of Transportation Post Road improvement project.

It includes road widening, the addition of turn lanes and sidewalks — and the removal of up to 100 trees.

From Volvo of Westport to Cumberland Farms — and continuing east to the trees in the median toward New Country Toyota — workers will cut decades-old trees.

The 2 in front of Sakura — the Japanese restaurant whose name means, literally, “cherry blossom” — are also on the chopping block.

One of the trees possibly slated for removal near Sakura.

But a meeting yesterday may have brought those 2 beautiful trees, at least, a reprieve.

State DOT officials planned to meet yesterday in the Sakura parking lot with workers, to coordinate the upcoming project.

Proposed work around Sakura, at the Post Road/Roseville/Hillspoint intersection.

Also there: Westport Town Representative Meeting members Andrew Colabella, Matthew Mandell, Harris Falk, Lou Mall and Don O’Day; Tree Boad members Ed Picard and Dick Stein; Betsy Newman of Earthplace; Sakura owner Nicole Chen, and landowner John Klinga.

And Westport Public Works director Peter Ratkiewich and town engineer Keith Wilberg.

Plus News12.

When the DOT crew saw the news cameras, they hesitated. They expected a private site visit, not a public meeting.

The Westport officials agreed to merely listen in to the discussion. Eventually, they talked.

DOT representatives, workers and Westport officials met outside Sakura yesterday. (Photo courtesy of Andrew Colabella)

DOT noted that planning for the project began nearly a decade ago. A public information session was held at Town Hall on July 9, 2019 (and previewed on “06880” — though at that point the project start date was the summer of 2021).

Only a dozen or so people attended that meeting.

A follow-up story on “06880” a few days later focused on curb cuts, and entrances and exits of parking lots. It drew 9 comments.

No one mentioned trees.

At Sakura yesterday, a DOT official said that the time to protest the tree cutting was long gone. He noted that no trees not in the right-of-way would be touched. But many are in that zone.

Still, there was hope. The final decision about the fate of Sakura’s 2 weeping cherry trees is now in the hands of Eversource. They may assent to trimming, rather than removal.

A crocus offers hope to one of the Sakura willow trees. (Photo/Harris Falk)

Meanwhile, though the Tree Board has no jurisdiction — US 1 is a state road — they strongly support preservation of the Sakura trees. First Selectwoman Jen Tooker has indicated support for the board.

Whatever the fate of 2 of Westport’s most iconic — and beloved trees — one thing is certain: Nearly every other tree on that corridor will be gone.

Get ready for some traffic tie-ups too. Construction is slated to end in April.

Of 2025.

4 trees that will soon be cut at Linxweiler House on the Post Road, between McDonald’s and Fresh Market. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Posted in Environment, Local politics, Transportation

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Roundup: Sakura Trees, Laura Linney, Owl Release …

Posted on March 9, 2023 | 8 comments

Yesterday’s “06880” Roundup noted that several trees near Linxweiler House — on the Post Road between Fresh Market and McDonald’s — have been marked with pink tape.

Alert “06880” reader Andrew Colabella adds this information: “Those trees are proposed to be cut down for sidewalk installation and lane expansion.

“The state Department of Transportation also wants to cut down the 2 beautiful cherry blossom trees at Sakura.

“Want to save the Linxweiler trees, or have comments or concerns about the cherry blossom trees at Sakura? Email Joseph.Aiello@ct.gov.”

One of the trees possibly slated for removal near Sakura.

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Sixty Artists Collective of Westport members recently received a 12-inch by 12-inch blank panel, and a 6-inch square section randomly selected from a single iconic music-themed painting.

Their assignment: Created an individual piece, replicating a part of the larger painting in their own style.

The catch: They would not know what the final painting would look like until it was revealed at an opening reception.

That reception came last night. A large crowd was there to see the finished, 10 foot-by-6 foot work.

The reveal!

Contributors include Miggs Burroughs, Katherine Ross, Michael Brennecke, Nina Bentley, Susan Fehlinger, Eric Chiang and Elizabeth DeVoll.

“Piece by Piece” runs is on display at the Library through May 9.

Westport Library director Bill Harmer addresses last night’s reception, before the reveal. (Photos/Dave Matlow)

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Speaking of the Library: Their 2023 “Booked for the Evening” honoree is …

… Laura Linney.

The award-winning theater, film and TV actress will appear in person at the annual gala on July 13. Tickets go on sale in May.

For 24 years, “Booked for the Evening” has highlighted someone whose work “reflects the purpose of the Library: to nurture a love of learning, and to enhance our understanding of the world.”

Library director Bill Harmer says: “Laura Linney is not only one of the great actresses of her generation; she is also a lifelong supporter of the power of the arts and creativity, a humanitarian lauded for her work on behalf of cancer patients and their families, and a champion for women in film.”

Her film credits include Genius, Nocturnal Animals, Mr. Holmes, Kinsey, You Can Count on Me, Mystic River, Love Actually, and The Truman Show. Among her Broadway productions are The Crucible, Time Stands Still, Sight Unseen, and Six Degrees of Separation. On television she has starred in The Big C and the mini-series John Adams, as well as Tales of the City and Frasier. She currently stars as Wendy Byrde in Ozark, a role for which she has earned Emmy and SAG Award nominations.

Linney has been nominated for 3 Academy Award, 5 Tonys, and 8 Golden Globes.

Linney holds honorary doctorates from her alma maters, Brown University and The Julliard School. She has been honored for her work in cancer advocacy, and speaks often on reconsidering the arts as essential for success, easing the pain of cancer, finding beauty in tragedy, and navigating gender inequality in the film industry.

Previous “Booked” recipients include Shonda Rhimes, Tom Brokaw, E.L. Doctorow, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Oscar Hijuelos, Adam Gopnik, Will Shortz, Patti Smith, Barry Levinson, Jon Meacham, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Addario, Ron Chernow, Alan Alda, Justin Paul, Frederic Chiu and Itzhak Perlman.

Laura Linney

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Leonard Schine Aspetuck Land Trust Preserve on Weston Road was the site of a majestic owl release on Sunday.

Three barred owls — all found injured in Westport over the past two months — were freed. Joint rescues had been performed by the Westport Police Department and Animal Control. They were transported to Wildlife in Crisis for rehabilitation.

Animal Control officer Peter Reid says, “It is common for owls to be struck by cars at night. They often hunt in the ‘edge habitat’ by the roadside. Once they are on their glide path, they have little peripheral awareness of approaching cars.

“They can also be dazzled by headlights, become disoriented, and side-slip into a car. Fortunately these 3 suffered only minor injuries — head trauma and concussion — and were ready for release fairly quickly.

“This species is an early nester. They are courting right now, so the release gives these owls a chance to get back into the owl dating pool.

“One of the barred owls was from Partrick Road, one from Compo Road North by Winslow Park, and one from Bayberry. The Weston Road property was a good central release point, and relatively close to their points of origin, as the owl flies.”

Three WPD members helped with the release: Chief Foti Koskinas, Lieutenant Matthew Gouveia and Officer Dominique Carr.

Also involved: Reid’s wife Dara, director of Wildlife in Crisis, and their resident owl expert.

Officer Dominique Carr, with rescued owl.

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The theme for this year’s Memorial Day parade is: “Veterans Serving the Community.”

Certificates will be awarded in 6 categories: Best Development of Theme, Best Youth Organization Float, Most Creative, Best Community Organization, Most Colorful, and the Best Overall Float.

Groups should concentrate on the first 5. The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston have won the last 2,2462 “Best Overall Float” competitions, dating back to the Peloponnessian War.

The Memorial Day parade steps off on Monday, May 29 at 9 a.m.

The Y’s Men’s 2021 award-winning Memorial Day float. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Rick Kalmans was concerned about the slow pace of reconstruction on the Bayberry Lane bridge.

He contacted town engineer Keith Wilberg. He quickly responded:

“The construction of the bridge is now in the phase called the Connecticut Department of Transportation shutdown period, from December 1 through March 31.

“That doesn’t mean that no work can be done in that period, but the nature of the work tends to be limited.

“Also, as asphalt plants have closed for the season as of the second week in December, we cannot reconstruct and pave the roadway until they open. That will most likely be at the end of March, give or take.

“The contractor has about a month’s worth of work left to finish, so my estimate is that they will be done by the end of April. The ‘on paper’ finish date is the end May 31. It is my belief they will be done and have the road open long before that, again, end of April.”

Fingers crossed …

(Photo/Bill Dedman)

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Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests last week.

One was for violation of condition of release (after being charged with disorderly conduct, and failure to appear.

One was for larceny and identity theft, after a fraudulent withdrawal from Webster Bank.

One was for criminal attempt of larceny and identity theft, after a fraudulent withdrawal from a bank account.

Another arrest was for failure to appear.

The Police Department’s system still cannot report citations issued.

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The Democratic Women of Westport celebrate Women’s History Month with a special panel: “Women Leading in CT: Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow.”

The event (March 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club) features Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas (a Norwalk resident), former PepsiCo senior vice president Lori Tauber Marcus, Staples High School senior (and National Merit Semifinalist) Lilly Weisz, and League of Women Voters president Laura Smits.

The event is free. Light refreshments and wine will be served.

Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas.

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Longtime Westporter Carol Frawley died Saturday at St. Joseph’s Manor, surrounded by her family, after a brief illness. She was 86.

The Norwalk native was employed part time as a cashier at Peter’s Bridge Market when her children were in school. She also enjoyed working weekends at Planter’s Barn in Darien and Geiger’s Nursery in Westport, where she indulged in her love of plants and flowers, and shared her knowledge.

In 1977 she joined Pepperidge Farms’ headquarters in Norwalk, and stayed until she retired.

She was a lifetime member of VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 Ladies Auxiliary.

She is survived by her children Colleen (Edward) Mezerewski of Shelton, Debbie (Philip) Grabell of Milford, William of Shelton, Edward (Karen) of Milford, Michael (Stephanie) of Westport, James (Donna) of Fairfield; grandchildren Casey (Trinh) Mezerewski, Colby (Glendys ) Mezerewski, Jacob (Rachel) Grabell, Nicole (Thomas) Cadigan, Helen Frawley, Alex Frawley, Kyle (Elicia) Frawley, Katie (Scott) Frawley, Kenzie Frawley and Kieran Frawley, and great-grandchildren Trinity, Edward, Leia and Ethan Mezerewski, Kaylie, Adriana and Logan Mezerewski, Charlotte and Chase Cadigan, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Harold, andsisters Marcella Palinkas of Oklahoma, Georgianna Bolton of Norwalk and Joan Goulart of Norwalk.

Funeral arrangements will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carol’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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As spring nears, here’s a “Westport … Naturally” look back a couple of weeks:

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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And finally … speaking of owls (see story above), Canned Head’s co-founder, co-lead singer, guitarist, harmonica player and primary composer was Alan “Blind Owl” Wilson. (It was either this, or a “Who” reference…)

(Today — like every day — “06880” rounds up every bit of news, big and tiny. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Library, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants

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Roundup: Cross Highway Work, Post Road Trees, Moscow Muppets …

Posted on March 8, 2023 | 9 comments

The dangerous stretch of Cross Highway between North Avenue and Bayberry Lane is slated for improvements.

Residents can review proposals at a public information meeting next Tuesday (March 14, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Department of Public Works engineering staff and other town officials will discuss and answer questions regarding the proposals, and any potential impacts to the neighborhood.

The design engineer will participate online, with data and drawings.

Proposed concepts range from minor traffic sign upgrades to complete intersection reconstruction. They include, but are not limited to:

  • Adding crosswalks in key areas
  • Construction of new and/or repair of existing sidewalks
  • Adding revised signage along the right-of-way
  • Relocation of utility poles
  • Installation of traffic signals
  • Roadway widening at the intersections to realign approach and turning lanes
  • Installation of roundabouts at the intersections
  • Bridge replacement over Dead Man’s Brook.

For questions about the project, call town engineer Keith Wilberg at 203-341-1128, or email kwilberg@westportct.gov.

A recent 3-car accident at the intersection of Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)

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Alert “06880” reader Bob Weingarten writes:

“I drove by the Linxweiler Homestead house at 655 Post Road East (between Fresh Market and McDonald’s) — given to the town in 1981 — and saw 10 or so red ribbons on trees in the front and side of the property.  This is normally an indication that the trees will be eliminated.

“Very strange. There seems to be too many to be ‘sick’.”

The tree warden has not responded to a request for comment.

Trees with red ribbons by Linxweiler House: the view from Post Road East …

… and from Crescent Road. (Photos/Bob Weingarten)

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The #7-ranked Staples High School boys basketball team easily dispatched #26 Manchester last night, in the first round of the state Division II tournament.

The score was 74-39, and the game was not even that close. But what the large crowd will remember most happened a few seconds from the end.

The Redhawks coach substituted in a player with a developmental disability. A Staples player fouled him softly, but deliberately, at the 3-point line, giving him 3 free throws.

He missed them all — not by much — but the referee detected a lane violation on the third. The young athlete sank his 4th attempt — swish! — to the roar of both teams, and fans on both sides of the gym.

The win advances Staples to the round of 16. They host #23 RHAM — an upset 61-52 winner over Enfield — tomorrow (Thursday, March 9). Game time is 6:30 p.m. (Hat tip: Jordan Schur)

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Television producer/filmmaker/author Natasha Rogoff talks about her debut book, “Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia” tomorrow — and the public is invited.

It’s a true story from the mid-1990s, when the Soviet Union renounced communism and moved toward democracy. Amid bombings, assassinations and a military takeover of the production office, Rogoff and a talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers and puppeteers brought laughter, learning and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire.

The Westport Library event (March 9, 10 a.m.) is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

Click below for more information:

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A wide variety of films will be shown at Friday’s “Teen Festival” at MoCA Westport (March 10, 6 p.m., 19 Newtown Turnpike).

High school students from around the area have submitted short films. Some are serious; some are funny — all are intriguing and worht seeing.

Tickets are $5 in advance (click here), $10 at the door). Proceeds fund the work of the Teens at MoCA club. Light snacks will be served.

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Jeremy Schaap — award-winning journalist, author, host of ESPN’s “E:60” and “Outside the Lines,” and a 1986 Staples High School graduate and current Westporter — spoke at the Westport Rotary Club’s lunch meeting yesterday.

Schaap — son of legendary sportscaster and writer Dick Schaap — described growing up immersed in the New York sports world when the Yankees, Mets, Jets and Giants loomed large.

Yet he called Mike Tyson one of his most fascinating interview subjects. They’ve spoken over 100 times, and “he’s the athlete that most let you into how he was thinking.”

Schaap was interviewed by his longtime friend Karl Mergenthaler (Staples ’87), Westport Rotary Club president.

Jeremy Schaap, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting at Green’s Farms Church. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Looking for a Westport-themed St. Patrick’s Day gift? Or yourself?

You’re in luck!

“Finding Westport” has just introduced a new collection of hoodies, tees, tank tops, blankets, mugs and more. Click here to see, and order.

 

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Young LGBTQ+ people are making their mark on Westport, and the world.

Now they’re eligible for a scholarship, up to $1,000.

Sponsored by Westport Pride, it is open to anyone who has planned or been part of activities or organizations in the LGBTQ+ community; anyone who feels their experiences as a young queer person has shaped their perspective as an aspect of themselves, or LGBTQ+ individuals who produced art that highlights the history, struggles or triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community.

High school students in Westport are eligible. Applications are available here, or at the Staples High School College & Career Center. Applications include an essay, video or art piece, and small write-up.

The application deadline is March 31.

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All 3 Westport selectwomen visited Staples High School on Monday, to celebrate Civic Learning Week. The goal is to empower students to become active, engaged members of their community.

In a meeting moderated by seniors Scarlett Siegel and Spencer Yim, Jen Tooker Andrea Moore and Candice Savin answered questions from students. Topics ranged from the structure of town government to efforts to address sustainability, traffic and other areas.

Members of the Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society assisted with the event.

Celebrating Civic Learning Week (from left): Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice, moderators Spencer Yim and Scarlett Siegel, and selectwomen Jen Tooker, Andrea Moore and Candice Savin.

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A Compo Beach sunset shows off our town’s beauty, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … David Lindley was not a household name. But the session guitarist played on some of the most famous recordings by Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt, Rod Stewart and others. He performed on his own too.

Lindley died Friday, at 78. He had suffered from kidney trouble, pneumonia and other ailments. Click here for a full obituary. Click below to hear his work:

(Please make sure “06880” is not running on empty. Click here to contribute. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Environment, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Friday Flashback #254

Posted on July 23, 2021 | 12 comments

Since the 1960s, the Post Road East/Roseville Road corner has been known for food.

First Big Top, then Roy Rogers, now McDonald’s — it’s where generations of Westporters have stopped for a quick (first real, then heavily processed) meal.

Previous generations headed to that spot for some slow, important work.

Blacksmith shop next to Roseville Road around 1925. it was torn down in 1928, as part of a road rewidening project. The Linxweilers moved their operation nearby. (Photo courtesy of Peter Morris)

A blacksmith shop stood for years by the unpaved streets. It was owned by the Linxweiler family. Their residence — a few yards west on Post Road East, next to the Fresh Market shopping center — still stands. It’s now part of Homes with Hope’s supportive housing program.

From blacksmitih to Big Top to McDonald’s: progress? Or regress?

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Nielsen Gets High Ratings For Linxweiler Work

Posted on June 2, 2016 | 4 comments

From old-timers like Gault and Mitchells to younger arrivals like JoyRide and Saugatuck Sweets, Westport is filled with local businesses that give back in countless ways to the town.

But multinational corporations do it too.

Today, 40,000 Nielsen employees in 109 countries gave back to the communities in which they live and work. It’s called “Global Impact Day.”

Westporter Bruce Haymes joined a group of Connecticut colleagues who painted the Linxweiler House.

The Post Road emergency shelter for single mothers and their children looks better than ever.

Linxweiler House, and the Nielsen painters.

Linxweiler House, and the Nielsen painters.

As the sign says, the Linxweiler family bequeathed the house — once owned by a tinsmith blacksmiths — as a gift to the town of Westport.

Thanks to a giant, multinational TV ratings corporation — and its local employees — it’s a gift that keeps on giving.

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Posted in Local business, Organizations, People, Places

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