As the second winter of Russia’s war on Ukraine nears, the need for help is greater than ever.
In Westport’s sister city of Lyman, the most urgent necessity is heat.
Our other sister city of Marigny-le-Lozon, France –the village that sparked the idea of uniting to help a Ukrainian town — has paid forward Westport’s post-World War II generosity. Marigny spent the summer gathering hundreds of Christmas gifts for Lyman’s children. They were shipped recently, for distribution soon to grateful, war-torn kids.
Of the 5,000 families remaining in Lyman, many lack heat. Ukrainian Aid International — the non-profit, boots-on-the-ground organization founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer — has helped put roofs on hundreds of apartments.
But thousands of people still need electricity and/or central heating. They rely on wood-burning stoves and diesel generators. They are not enough.
Ukraine Aid International has already supplied a wood pellet machine. It costs $30,000 to build, deploy and run one for the entire winter. It provides enough pellets to heat 1,000 homes. That’s $30 per home.
Feeding wood pellets into the machine; the process, and the pellets that heat 1,000 homes.
More is needed.
This holiday season, Westport”s goal is to provide 2 more machines. The total cost is $60,000.
The great news is: An anonymous donor has already guaranteed $30,000 — half of that goal!
Our job is to raise the other $30,000 by Christmas. It costs just $30 per home to heat 1,000 homes — so if we get 1,000 Westport donors to give $30 each, we’ll provide that second wood pellet machine.
Of course, you can give more — in $30 increments, or any amount you wish.
Ukraine Aid International is distributing Marigny’s holiday presents. They’ll ensure that the stoves are procured too, and make their way exactly as they’re promised.
To donate by credit card, click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo. Thank you!
The Westport Police Department’s latest donation of excess used equipment — including communication devices, and much-needed hats — has been delivered to their counterparts in our sister city of Lyman, Ukraine.
It is much needed, as the war grinds on and heads into a second winter.
NOTE: Donations to Lyman are always welcome. Click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)
Lyman police officer, with a Westport Police walkie-talkie — and hat.
The town of Westport has hired a human resources director.
Candice Holley’s appointment is effective immediately.
She has over 20 years’ experience in human capital and human resources implementation, with a strong background in talent acquisition, recruitment and retention.
Most recently, Holley served as an independent HR consultant. Previous positions include vice president, people and operations, for the Sandy Hook Promise Foundation, and global director, human resources, with Barnes Group.
She graduated from Seton Hall University with a degree in social and behavioral Sciences. She also attended the University of Mississippi to earn a degree in Psychology, and the University of Cincinnati for political science.
Candice Holley
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One of Westport’s favorite holiday toy drives — the Westport Police Department’s, in partnership with the Police Benevolent Association and Police Athletic League — is open for donations.
Toys will be provided to children in need throughout Fairfield County, and at area hospitals.
Officers will accept new, unopened and unwrapped toys — and cash donations — in the ASF Sports & Outdoors parking lot (1560 Post Road East), between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., on the next 2 weekends (Saturday and Sunday, December 2-3 and 9-10).
There will also be toy collection boxes at:
• Westport Police Department, 50 Jesup Road
• ASF Sports & Outdoors Store, 1560 Post Road East
• Awesome Toys & Gifts, 429 Post Road East
• The Toy Post , 180 Post Road East
Questions? Contact Craig Bergamo by phone at (203) 341-6000, or
email (cbergamo@westportct.gov).
More than a dozen teams — each including Staples students, and at least one Westport Police Department officer — battled last night, in the high school fieldhouse.
A portion of the large group of students and cops. (Photo/Dan Woog)
It was all in good fun. The annual “Dodge-a-Cop” event was a way for teenagers and cops to meet and bond — and for the Westport Youth Commission to raise funds for the Homes with Hope and Westport Woman’s Club food pantries.
Kevin Godburn, longtime Youth Commission member through the Department of Human Services (2nd from left) with (from left) members Jake Shufro, Cabry Lueker (president) and Anaam Olasewere (secretary, Dodge-a-Cop manager). (Photo/Dan Woog)
Gault Energy and Mitchells co-sponsored the evening, which included prizes, pizza and drinks.
And plenty of good, clean, cops-and-kids competition.
The winning Dodge-a-Cop team included Corporal (and Westport PAL president) Craig Bergamo (right). (Photo/Cabry Lueker)
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Club 203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — celebrates the holidays next week.
The party is set for MoCA, next Monday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. It’s a “hoedown,” so Western-themed attire is suggested.
There’s square dancing, a Western photo area, food and giveaways. Parents are invited to stay and celebrate too.
Click here for reservations, and more information. Questions? Email club203ct@gmail.com
Westporter Rosie Jon — who paints with her toes better than nearly anyone can using hands — celebrates 10 years as an artist with her first-ever exhibition.
It’s set for the gallery at Green’s Farm’s Church, from December 1 to January 12.
Opening night begins at 6 p.m., and includes a chance to watch Rosie create her beautiful art, and a Q-and-A.
The Westport Library welcomed Norm Siegel last night.
The noted local artist discussed his new exhibit, “Visual Curiosities.” It’s on view through January 8.
Norm Siegel (far right) with (from left) admirers Nina Bentley, Miggs Burroughs and Lynn Untermeyer Miller, last night at the Westport Library. (Photo/Carole Erger-Fass)
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” subject is getting ready for winter, at Winslow Park?
And finally … on this date more than 80 years apart, 2 key entertainment events happened.
In 1877, Thomas Edison announced his invention of the phonograph: a machine that can record and play sound.
In 1959, disc jockey Alan Freed, who popularized the term “rock and roll,” was fired from New York’s WABC radio over allegations he had participated in a payola scandal.
(Art, music, kids, Town Hall — it’s all here in the Roundup, just like every day. But all this stuff takes time and effort. “06880” relies on reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)
More than 260 empty chairs — each with a “Kidnapped” flyer and balloon — served as a stark reminder yesterday of the hostages from Israel still held by Hamas.
The chairs — juxtaposed against a brilliant blue sky at Compo Beach — were organized by Westporters Sharon Suchotliff, Inda Sade and Lynn Ravinovici Park, with the help of the Staples Jewish Culture Club.
(Photo/Mia Bomback)
Jonathan Alloy reports:
“Seeing the little kid chairs with posters of kidnapped babies and children was breathtaking and infuriating. It’s time to bring the hostages home. ‘Never Again’ is now.”
(Photo/Dylan Chatterjee)
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Rabbi Zach Plesent of Temple Israel were among the speakers. Israeli music played, and Westport Police provided security.
From left, at yesterday’s rally: Sharon Suchotliff, Samuel Alloy, Jonathan Alloy.
Today’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast is quite timely. 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Deputy Police Chieif Ryan Paulsson discuss measures taken to protect Westporters during the difficult times in the aftermath of Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel.
Click below to listen. The podcast is produced by the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston.
Westport’s sister city relationship with Lyman, Ukraine — our newest sister city — began with a conversation with friends in Marigny-le-Lozon, France, our oldest sister city.
At a Zoom ceremony dedicating a room in their town hall in honor of Charlotte MacLear, the Staples High School French teacher who pioneered the 2 towns’ relationship in the aftermath of World War II, Marigny officials said, “Why don’t we help rebuild a Ukrainian town, the same way Westport helped us for so long?”
Last holiday season, Westport raised $252,000 for Lyman. We added another $50,000 this past summer.
Now Marigny is paying it forward. Starting months ago, they collected funds and bought gifts for every child still in Lyman: about 700.
This week, they’re shipping them east. Delivery has been assured by Ukraine Aid International — the non-profit, boots-on-the-ground group founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer.
What goes around, comes around. Merry Christmas! Joyeux Noël! щасливого Різдва!
NOTE: Donations to Lyman are always welcome. Click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)
For decades, all the leaves were gone by Thanksgiving.
Preparing gifts for Lyman, Ukraine, in Marigny-le-Lozon, France.
Westport Tilt Parenting is a support group for parents of neurodivergent children.
They’ve partnered with the Westport Library to host Debbie Reber. The educator, author and advocate for understanding and embracing neurodivergent youngsters will speak at the Library next Tuesday (November 28, 7 p.m.).
Her topic: “Understanding and Embracing Differently Wired Kids.”
Westport Tilt Parenting says that at least 1 in 5 youths are in some way neurodivergent (ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum, gifted, sensory issues, anxiety and more).
However, they are often misunderstood. Current support strategies may be misguided; their strengths and gifts can be overlooked.
All parents of neurodiverse and neurotypical children are invited, as are teachers, administrators and interested others. Click here for more information. To learn more about Westport Tilt Parenting, email alexandre.acupuncture@gmail.com.
A reminder (and we can’t remind readers often enough): From tonight through early Monday morning, the second “bridge slide” takes place.
The new I-95 Saugatuck Avenue bridge will be slid over, replacing the old one. Traffic will be diverted onto local roads.
Drivers using Waze and other apps will find their own ways around the miss, as they did 2 weeks ago. Areas far from 95, like Hermit Lane and Gorham Avenue, were affected.
If you’re going to weekend happenings — like Saturday’s Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services banquet at the VFW, or the next day’s “First Folk Sunday” (also at the VFW), or Sunday’s “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour — plan accordingly.
If it seems like there are a lot of vape and smoke shops popping up around town: You’re not high. It’s true.
The Planning & Zoning Commission has taken notice too.
The first agenda item at its November 13 meeting (7 p.m., Zoom; click here to see) includes a text amendment that would “protect the public health and welfare by adding language to define and prohibit Smoke Shops and add stricter standards applicable to other establishments that sell smoking related products, but do not qualify as a Smoke Shop as described in the definition.”
New language is also proposed to “prohibit light emitting diode or LED signs so as to reduce potential distractions to motorists” — one of the complaints about Savvy Smoker, the new shop next to Christian Siriano at the corner of Post Road East and West Parish Road.
Nearly 400 fans packed the Inn at Longshore last night, for Westport PAL’s 2nd annual gala.
The Romano family (Pete, his parents PJ and Joan, sister Pam Romano-Gorman, and daughters), and former PAL president Ned Batlin, were honored for their longtime contributions to the non-profit that serves thousands of Westport youth every year.
There was an auction too, including special items like VIP parking — and beach sitting — areas for the PAL-sponsored 4th of July fireworks.
And there were heartfelt testimonials to the importance of Westport PAL (and the influence of so many volunteer coaches) by former lacrosse player Henry Dodge, current Staples High School quarterback Caleb Smith, and 6th grade athlete Tristen Rycenga.
It was a great, Westport-centric evening. Funds raised will go to the new, 2-story clubhouse planned for (of course) PJ Romano Field.
6th grader Tristen Rycenga (at microphone) and teammates thank Westport PAL for all they do. PAL president Craig Bergamo is at left. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)
Also yesterday: 90-year-0ld Win Allen provided a snapshot of his life story to the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston.
The 48-year resident of Westport grew up in Harlem, attended law school, earned a Fulbright Scholarship, then created the first Black-owned Wall Street firm.
He has written 3 books, most recently“How I Pried Open Wall Street in 1962.”
Win Allen speaks to the Y’s Men. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
Ukraine Aid International –– the non-profit founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer — continues to deliver crucial aid.
The organization has purchased a water filtration truck, for deliveries to frontline locations to places — like our sister city of Lyman — without permanent installations.
Lyman’s police also just received a generous donation from the Westport Police Department. The shipment includes gear that was scheduled to be replaced here, including bulletproof vests, shoulder radios, winter hats and gloves, car radios, police belts and ballistic helmets.
Donations to Lyman are always welcome. Click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)
Ukraine Aid International’s water filtration truck.
For adults — well, you may have way too many Kit Kats, M&Ms and apples (just kidding) left over from Monday night.
Al’s Angels are happy to take it off your hands.
From now through Wednesday (November 8), bring extra Halloween candy to Saugatuck Sweets’ Westport or Fairfield locations.
It will be placed in nearly 1,500 Al’s Angels Thanksgiving holiday meal bins, for children battling cancer, rare blood diseases and several financial hardship.
“On September 13, the Conservation Board approved a plan to build a luxury townhouse next to Eloise A. Ray Park, on Riverside Avenue.
“This approval occurred over the objections of a number of residents, including a ‘Friends of the Park’ group which has been lobbying against the project for some time.
“Opponents of the project argue that it will be unusable while construction is ongoing; that it will be used in part as a staging area, and damaged by equipment; that the park will be ‘forever altered by having a multi-level house, driveway, patio and walls’ encroaching on it; that trees will be cut, wildlife displaced, and that traffic on Riverside will be affected for lengthy periods of time.
“While the project still requires approval by Planning & Zoning (no hearing date has yet been set), Friends of Eloise A. Ray Park urges residents to find out where P&Z candidates stand on this issue. They also invite interested residents to email saveeloise@gmail.com.”
People with Autism Spectrum Disorder, who are drivers or passengers in cars, are invited to a “Traffic Stop Practice” tomorrow (Saturday, November 4, 8 a.m. to noon), Sacred Heart University).
Sponsored in part by the Westport Police Department, the goal is to provide those with ASD with information about interactions during a routine traffic stop. They’ll also learn how to use the Department of Motor Vehicles’ “Blue Envelope,” which helps enhance communication with officers.
To register, email asd-center@southernct.edu; include “Traffic Stop Practice” in the subject line, and include name, phone, email and physical address.
The state DMV “blue envelope” program, for people with autism.
Though 180 families applied to the Salvation Army for Thanksgiving turkeys and other food, the organization expects their CT Food Share allotment will not cover the need.
The seek additional support from are residents.
The Salvation Army also hopes to purchase new coats, sneakers and toys for hundreds of youngsters.
To help, and for more information, contact Major Persi Sanclemente: Persida.Sanclemente@USE.SalvationArmy.org; 401-439-3480.
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Yesterday’s frost was the first of this fall.
Jacqui O’Brien captured it in Greens Farms, for “Westport … Naturally”:
(Photo/Jacqui O’Brien)
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And finally … this weekend’s “bridge slide” is not electric.
But this video will get you in a happier mood than you otherwise might be:
(Staying home to avoid all the traffic? Slide over to this link, and help support “06880.” Thank you!)
Soon after D-Day in 1944, Westporter Bob Loomis — a gun sergeant — was In Marigny-le-Louzon. The Normandy town is just 25 miles from Utah Beach.
A couple of weeks later another Westporter — heavy machine gunner Clay Chalfant — moved through Marigny with his company on their way to Belgium.
When the war ended, Charlotte MacLear — head of the French department at Staples High School, and a graduate of prestigious Sorbonne Université — sparked a campaign to “officially adopt Marigny” and help its recovery.
Our town sent clothes, money and Christmas gifts, thanks to fundraising that included selling toys and buckets with designs painted by Westport artists.
In return, Marigny created the “Westport School Canteen,” and named the town’s largest square “Place Westport.” MacLear visited our sister town 3 times. Each time, she was honored and adored.
Pharmacie Westport. As the blue plaque notes, it is located at Place Westport.
We forgot the relationship. Marigny never did.
In June 1994 — as part of the 50th anniversary of the invasion of Normandy — town officials invited 3 Westport middle school students and 2 Westport veterans to stay in the homes of residents. They visited “Westport Gift Shop” and “Pharmacie Westport.”
Pharmacie Westport. As the plaque on the side notes, it is on “Place Westport.” Charlotte MacLear was asked where she wanted it to be. She chose the main square, in front of Town Hall.
The 2 veterans were, of course, Loomis and Chalfant.
Once again, Westport’s memory faded. But a couple of years ago, Marigny residents — some of whom had been the recipients, three-quarters of a century ago, of Westporters’ Christmas gifts — honored the founder of that on-again, off-again sister city relationship.
In May of 2022, a meeting room in their town hall was renamed “Salle Charlotte MacLear.”
The “Charlotte MacLear Room,” in Marigny’s town hall.
First Selectwoman Jen Tooker and I took part in that Zoom ceremony, early on a Sunday morning here. After the formalities, as we prepared to say adieu, one of our French friends remarked, almost off-handedly, that both Westport and Marigny should both do the same thing that our down had once done for theirs — this time, in Ukraine.
At that time, the Soviet invasion was less than 3 months old.
Coincidentally, a pair of Westport brothers — Brian and Marshall Mayer — had recently founded Ukraine Aid International. It was a boots-on-the-ground, get-things-done non-profit.
Thanks to the Mayers’ problem-solving skills, organizational know-how and energy, UAI ensured that supplies, goods, food and more was actually reaching Ukrainians in need — not sitting in warehouses, or diverted elsewhere.
When Tooker met Brian Mayer, she mentioned the sister city idea. He had had the exact same thought.
Brian went looking for a town around our size. He found Lyman. Located in the Donetsk region, and an important rail center, it had suffered greatly from Russian attacks. Apartments, schools, the police station — all were in bad shape.
In just 3 weeks around the holidays, Westporters raised $252,000 for our new sister city. In July, we added $50,000 more (thanks in part to raffle items sent from Marigny).
Funds paid for building supplies, communications equipment, bulletproof vests for utility workers, generators, police and sanitation vehicles, meals, holiday gifts for children, and more.
Westport students sent cards and letters.
Meanwhile, Marigny has begun collecting gifts for Lyman’s children for the upcoming holiday — just as Westport did, from 1947 to 1965.
The presents include sister city sweatshirts, toys, and French candies, sweets and chocolates.
The men and women Marshall spoke to who received gifts from Westport said they remember the candy the most.
Marigny’s gifts will be shipped soon.
A local newspaper covers Marigny’s upcoming holiday gift shipment to Lyman.
The Westport-Marigny-Lyman sister cities connection means a lot to all 3 towns.
Now, Marshall Mayer has tightened the bonds even further.
The Ukraine Aid International co-founder and his wife Ebru just returned from overseas. They made an important side trip, to Marigny.
Marshall Mayer (front, 2nd from left), with the Marigny Welcoming Committee.
“This town is Lyman, 80 years from now,” Marshall reports.
“Descendants of a people attacked, they rebuilt a town that had been 70% destroyed.
“They understand what Lyman is going through. It’s part of their history too.”
Westport churches raised money to pay for stained glass, in a destroyed Marigny church.
“It’s hard to understand the impact that Westport has had on the residents of Marigny,” Marshall says. “We gave gifts and money. But they impacted real people, whose entire lives have been shaped by these acts of kindness.”
Marshall and Ebru met the daughter and granddaughter of an original committee member.
The granddaughter — just 6 weeks old — is named Charlotte. Her name honors the founder of the Westport-Marigny relationship.
Marigny officials show Marshall Mayer (2nd from left) a book about the relationship between their town and Westport. René Gautier, president of the Marigny-Westport association, is at the far right.
Marshall looks forward to a big victory party in Lyman — with representative from Westport and Marigny — when victory is finally achieved.
Meanwhile, a woman in Marigny is planning a trip to New York this spring. She hopes to include Westport on her visit.
(Marigny — a town of less than 3,000 — has raised enough funds for gifts for 300 Lyman children. There are now about 700 kids there. The cost to cover those 400 gifts is about $12,000. Westport: Let’s help! Click here to contribute, through Ukraine Aid International.. Under “Designation,” click the dropdown menu and select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.”)
Marshall Mayer’s Marigny hosts points to themselves, in a photo of themselves as children receiving gifts from Westport. (All photos courtesy of Marshall Mayer)
Tonight’s special forum on car thefts, vehicle break-ins and Sunday’s carjacking (Wednesday, September 20, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) will also be livestreamed. Click here to access that page, on the town’s website.
Police Chief Foti Koskinas will lead a discussion on safety concerns voiced by residents. He and members of his command staff will describe the work of the Regional Auto Theft Task Force, formed in response to increased car thefts and vehicle break-ins in the area.
The discussion will also include police practices utilized to combat vehicle thefts.
Yesterday, Koskinas and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker taped a special edition of “What’s Happening … Westport.” They discussed the escalation in incidents, and what residents can do. Click below to listen to the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston podcast.
Meanwhile, Westport Police made one custodial arrest between September 13 nd 20. A woman was charged with disorderly conduct, following a domestic dispute.
Police also issued these citations:
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations 6 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
Failure to obey traffic control signs: 2
Evading responsibility: 1
Following too closely: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Distracted driving (2nd offense): 1
Operating a motor vehicle using a handheld phone: 1
As winter nears, Westport’s sister city of Lyman is in a race against time.
52 apartment buildings need repairs, so they can survive the cold weather and be fully restored in the spring.
Ukraine Aid International co-founder Brian Mayer — the Westporter who helped create the sister city relationship, and has made many trips to Lyman on our behalf — sends a video that shows how much our town has helped.
And how much remains to be done.
(Donations through Ukrainian Aid International will help rebuild the many heavily damaged apartments. Click here to help. Under “Designation,” click the dropdown menu and select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.”)
This Friday’s Westport Country Playhouse show is called “I’ll Drink to That! A Broadway Cocktail Party.”
Fittingly, it will feature Broadway stars.
Joe Delafield, Kristen Hahn and Maggie Lacey will perform cocktail-themed tunes and scenes from Broadway productions, while author Laurence Maslon recounts tales of actors, shows, and cocktail concoctions from his recently published book, “I’ll Drink to That!”
The event (September 22, 6 p.m., Playhouse courtyard and barn) begins with cocktails that pay homage to Broadway. The 70-minute program concludes with a second cocktail and book signing. Cocktails are included with $50 ticket.
STAR Inc. and Voices Center for Resilience present a special program: “A 22-Year Journey from 9/11 to Today: Helping Families and Communities Prepare for Emergencies” (October 18, 7 p.m., Westport Library).
Mary Fetchet — founding Director of Voices Center for Resilience — lives in New Canaan. Her son Brad died in the September 11 attacks.
She will share her personal experience and perspective on preparing communities in advance of a tragedy. The presentations also includes representatives of local and state emergency management, highlighting their efforts to prepare communities.
Speaking of doctors: BD²: Breakthrough Discoveries for Thriving with Bipolar Disorder today announced an $18 million first round of grants, focusing on research in bipolar disorder.
Among the recipients: Westport resident Dr. Hilary Blumberg. She will lead a Yale University team in an investigation of mitochondrial-related genes, metabolic changes, and the central importance of energy- and activity-related symptoms at the onset of bipolar-related episodes. These studies w may translate that into pharmacological therapeutics and behavioral interventions. (Hat tip: Sherri Peyser)
Dr. Hilary Blumberg
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The bar for “06880” Entitled Parking photos has been set incredibly high.
Drivers must now show breathtaking acts of selfishness to be featured here.
This one does:
(Photo/David Meth)
That’s not one, but two handicap spots taken up at Stop & Shop.
Plus, the car is taking up space in the drivers’ part of the lot too.
And — of course! — there is no handicap placard inside the car.
Roger Whittaker — described by the New York Times as “a British singer whose easy-listening ballads and folk songs caught the sentiments of perfect summer days and last farewells, touching the hearts of mainly older fans across Europe and America for four decades” — died last week in France. He was 87.
Westport’s new School Security Unit begins work Monday (September 11).
The unit is a partnership of the Police Department and Board of Education. Funding was approved unanimously this week by the Representative Town Meeting.
Officer Sean Kelley will be promoted to sergeant soon, and will supervise the unit. He was hired by the WPD in 2000, and has served as a detective in the Youth Division. He will be assigned to Bedford Middle School.
Officer Dennis Broderick will be assigned to Coleytown Middle and Elementary Schools. He was hired a year ago, after retiring as a sergeant with the Milford Police Department, where he spent over half his 20-year career in the Detective Bureau.
Corporal Rachel Hall will be assigned to Saugatuck and Kings Highway Elementary Schools. She was hired in 2016, after beginning her career with the Ridgefield Police Department. She is a member of the Marine, Motorcycle and Drone Units, and served as a desk officer.
Officer Edward “Ned” Batlin will be assigned to Long Lots and Greens Farms Elementary Schools. He was hired in 2001, and was the DARE officer for many years. He is very active with local sports, at the high school and PAL levels.
Though the SSOs will primarily remain outside of the schools, they will work directly with administrators as needed.
In addition to providing enhanced security, they will focus on traffic enforcement and safety concerns during student drop-off and pick-up.
Officer Ed Wooldridge will continue as Staples’ highly regarded and very popular School Resource Officer.
So he took notice yesterday when the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee posted scores of comments, following their Parker Harding Plaza August 22 charrette at the Westport Library.
“Kudos to the DPIC,” John says.
“It took a lot of work to get the comments typed up. I would have been happy with just copies of people’s handwritten notes, but nice to see they went the extra yard.”
Click here to read them all. It’s a great way to get a feel for the pulse of the community.
Members of the public were invited to comment after last month’s Downtown Plan Implementation Committee meeting about Parker Harding Plaza. (Photo/Dan Woog)
On Wednesday, the Flood & Erosion Board approved Vita Design Group’s plan to build a house next door to Eloise A. Ray Park, on Riverside Avenue.
A “Friends of the Park” group is concerned that the park will be unusable while construction is ongoing; that it will be used in part as a staging area, and damaged by equipment; that the park will be “forever altered by having a multi-level house, driveway, patio and walls” encroaching on it; that trees will be cut, and wildlife, and that traffic on Riverside will be affected.
They invite interested residents to email saveeloise@gmail.com.
The next hearing is before the full Conservation Board, on September 13.
The bad news is: In Lyman, dozens of apartment buildings need repair before winter sets in.
The good news: It’s been several weeks since Russians attacked our Ukrainian sister city. And Westporters’ donations have already helped shore up 15 apartment buildings.
Ukraine Aid International’s Brian Mayer — the Westporter who co-founded the boots-on-the-ground non-profit, and helped engineer our town’s sister city relationship — provided an update yesterday.
He told First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas and “06880” that a construction firm is doing the dangerous work of repairing roofs and windows, to enable the damaged apartments to withstand the coming snow and freezing temperatures.
Mayer recently visited Lyman Mayor Alexander Zhuravlov. Behind his desk is a shelf filled with items sent from Westport.
Tooker and Koskinas are in near daily contact with the mayor and Lyman police chief. Each time, the Ukrainian officials tell their Westport counterparts how much our town’s support means to them.
(Donations through Ukrainian Aid International will help rebuild the many heavily damaged apartments. Click here to help. Under “Designation,” click the dropdown menu and select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.”)
In July — just hours after a Russian attack killed 8 Lyman residents — Mayor Alexander Zhuravlov sent a video thanking Westporters for their support.
Connecticut’s annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony drew a reverent crowd yesterday to Sherwood Island State Park, the site of the state’s official memorial.
From that spot in 2001, smoke from the Twin Towers was visible.
Connecticut holds its ceremony before the September 11 anniversary, so relatives and friends of those killed in the terrorist attack can also attend the New York memorial on that day.
Yesterday’s 9/11 memorial, at Sherwood Island State Park. (Photo/Harris Falk)
Westoberfest — the Westport Downtown Association’s Oktoberfest-style event — has something for everyone.
There’s beer tasting from dozens of craft breweries, sure.
But also live music; food by Walrus Alley, Kneads Bakery, Lobstercraft and Little Pub; a children’s area run by the Artists’ Collective of Westport and MoCA; a street magician, bubbles and face painting; a pumpkin and apple giveaway; food trucks, shopping and vendors like Savvy + Grace.
Take-home tasting glasses with koozies are courtesy of Lux Bond & Green.
It all takes place October 14 (2 to 5 p.m.), off Elm Street. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Westoberfest is for beer drinkers — and families. (Photo/JC Martin)
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Jennifer Johnson spotted this ship in Long Island Sound, earlier this morning.
(Photo/Jennifer Johnson)
“What is it dumping?” she asks.
I have no idea. But I’m sure someone in our “06880” universe does. Click “Comments” below, if you know.
A service for Rev. Ted Hoskins — the former and much-loved Saugatuck Congregational Church pastor who died last month — will be held this Sunday (September 10, 2 p.m.) in Blue Hill, Maine. Doug Miller — Rev. Hoskins’ former associate minister in Westport — will officiate.
The service will be livestreamed. Click here for the link.
Rev. Ted Hoskins (Photo courtesy of Penobscot Bay Press)
Forget car washes and candy sales. The Staples High School girls swim and dive team has a fundraiser that will really make you smile: a comedy show.
Their first-ever “Dive Into Comedy” (get it?!) event includes 4 comedians who have slayed it in laces like Caroline’s, Stand Up New York, Broadway Comedy Club and The Stress Factory.
It’s September 28, at the Fairfield Theatre Company. Click here for tickets (adults 21+ only).
“Don’t tread water. Get your tickets today!” the girls say. Hah!
“Make people laugh,” the photographer told the Staples swim and dive team. They did.
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But speaking of sports team car washes: The Staples boys soccer team holds theirs tomorrow. It’s 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Christ & Holy Trinity Church parking lot on Elm Street.
Like the girls swim team, they’re raising money for costs not covered by the Board of Education budget.
Gary Lucas — a rock guitarist lauded by Bruce Springsteen and Lou Reed, who collaborated with Captain Beefheart and Jeff Buckley — is the latest StoryFest addition.
He’ll rock the Westport Library October 22 (2 p.m.), accompanying George Melford’s 1931 Spanish-language “Dracula” film with a live guitar score.
Lucas will add even more to the largest literary festival in Connecticut. This year’s 6th annual event (October 20-22) includes a keynote conversation with legendary writer Neil Gaiman; panel discussions and author conversations; a special reading of Eric LaRocca’s new play, “Gentle Hacksaw”; a children’s event with Pinkalicious author Victoria Kann, and PitchFest (a 5-hour paid workshop where aspiring authors can speak to literary agents about their book. Click here for more information.
Gary Lucas (Photo/Michael Arkk)
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It’s not yet fall — but this guy is getting ready for winter, at Tracy Porosoff’s kousa dogwood tree. Nothing could be more “Naturally … Westport.”
One of the highlights of the recent LymanAID fundraiser for Westport’s sister city was an art show.
Mark Yurkiw put out the call for contributions. Many fellow Artists Collective of Westport members responded.
Some works were Ukrainian-themed. Others were not.
All are very, very special.
Most of the artwork was bought by attendees at the event. But a few remain.
Now Mark and the Artists Collective are offering them for sale through “06880.” All proceeds from the donated works benefit Lyman thanks to Ukraine Aid International, the Westport-founded organization that delivers relief directly where it’s needed most.
Available works are shown below, with estimated values. Readers are asked to offer at least 50% of the value — though, Mark says, “we hope you’ll be guided by your generosity to support the people in our war-torn sister city.”
Call 646-873-0050 to ensure that the art you hope to purchase is still available. You can also make an appointment to see the art in person, before buying.
When you are ready to purchase, call 646-873-0050 to schedule a pick-up. You can then make your donation by clicking the Ukraine Aid International website. Under the “Designation” dropdown menu, select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.”
“These are the best of our local artists, whose work is collected far and wide, Mark says.
“Their donations are outstanding examples of their work. Their generosity is overwhelming. “We were bowled over by the quality of the artists, and the works they offered. All we can say is ‘wow’ and ‘thank you!'”
Browse away. Then call, donate, and pick up.
Our sister city of Lyman thanks you!
Miggs Burroughs: Miggs is a lifelong Westporter. His work is represented in museums, and has been exhibited and collected extensively. Click here for more work information on Miggs Burroughs.
“Buddha & Shrine” (above). This large lenticular photo is mounted and ready to hang (18”x 22”). Estimated value: $600-$900.This is a limited edition, signed by the artist on the reverse.
Mark Yurkiw: “Yearning to Breathe Free” (above); sculpture, 4″ x 4″ x 4”; Plexiglass case mounted 3D print of original human size crouched Statue of Liberty; originally commissioned for coat drives that raised almost 2 million coats for the homeless. 3-D print signed for Ukraine. Estimated value: $250. Multiple limited edition 3-D printings are available.
Norm Siegel’s work has been accepted by Ambassador Oksana Makarova at the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington. Norm primarily works in the photo realistic style. He offers 4 works. To see more, click here.
“Untitled” (above) depicts the colors of the Ukrainian flag, oozing red between the blue sky and yellow fields which the flag represents. Oil on canvas, 16″ x 20”; estimated value, $250-500.
“Twist and Shout” (above); photorealistic abstract, oil on canvas, 30″ x 30”; estimated value, $1500-2250.
“Russo’s Roses” (above); oil on canvas, 18″ x 24″; estimated value, $1000-1500.
Norm Siegel: “Ode to a Geode” (above); oil on canvas, framed, 26″ x 32″; estimated value, $1500-2,500.
George Radwan: To learn more about this artist, click here.
“Doorways” (above); sculpture mixed media, 4″ x 10″ x 11″. This is 1 out of 9 of an original series; each is a unique doorway. In this piece, the graphic “A” refers to anarchy. Estimated value, $1500-2000.
Joanie Landau: To learn more about this artist, click here.
“We Need You Emma Lazarus” (above); digital collagraph, 20” x 20”; estimated value, $860. The title refers to the Statue of Liberty poem by Emma Lazarus.
David Black (1931-2022) worked in acrylic, and is widely collected. His career and talents included violinist, opera singer, actor, director, playwright, author and award-winning Broadway producer. This painting is donated by Wendy Van Wie to benefit Lyman in memory of David, who lived in Stonington.
“Provence, France” (above); large 38″ x 47” impressionist landscape, framed. Estimated value: $3500-5000.
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Julie Leff: To learn more about this artist, click here.
“Serenity” (above); 27″ x 32” bouquet of photo realistic flowers; limited edition 2/25 digital print, with certificate of authenticity; framed. Estimated value: $450.
Robert Anderson: “Portrait of my Wife” (above), 36″ x 36”; original acrylic airbrush painting; framed rounded walnut corners with linen beveled matt. Surreal figurative portrait of Mrs. Anderson. This style is identified as the most popular trend by ArtNet today, but it was painted c. 1982. It is donated in memory of the artist for Lyman, by Wendy Van Wie.
A software glitch deleted all emails sent to me yesterday (Friday), between 1 and 5 p.m. If you emailed me then for any reason, please send it along: 06880blog@gmail.com. Thank you!
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Last Sunday’s LymanAID event was a thank-you to Westporters. This winter, hundreds of residents donated $252,000 to our sister city in Ukraine. The money paid for building materials, generators, communications equipment, police and trash vehicles, bulletproof vests, meals and more for the town.
In addition to food, music and kids’ activities, LymanAID also featured opportunities to continue support our sister city.
Attendees did just that. Over $43,000 was raised. That brings Westport’s contributions to Lyman to nearly $300,000.
The funds — and the equipment and material delivered by Ukraine Aid International — is greatly appreciated. 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas visited Lyman this spring, and were thanked continually by residents and officials for Westport’s help.
(Donations are still welcome — and crucial. Click here to help. Under “Designation,” click the dropdown menu and select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.”)
Lyman Mayor Aleksander Zhuravlov spoke by video to LymanAID attendees on Sunday — just hours after his town was attacked by Russian artillery. Seven civilians were killed.
Are you in favor of closing Soundview Drive to vehicles one or more times during the summer, for strolling, music, food, face painting — a street party, in other words?
Or do you think that’s a terrible idea?
Either way: “06880” wants your opinions.
Two days remain for our survey. It’s quick, easy — and important.
ll Westporters are encouraged to take the (anonymous) survey. One question asks where you live. Residents of the beach area are especially encouraged to respond.
Please click here to respond, before 11:59 p.m. Saturday.
Soundview Avenue (without vehicles) is a place to see, and be seen. But right now it’s only on Fireworks Day. (Photo/Diane Yormark)
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Westport Police made 5 custodial arrests between July 5 and 12.
Shoplifting at Ulta Beauty led to charges of organized retail theft, larceny and conspiracy to commit larceny against one woman.
A man who damaged 6 vehicles at the Saugatuck train station — including broken windshield wipers and side mirrors — was charged with criminal mischief.
A traffic stop initiated after an officer observed a vehicle without a license plate resulted in charges of operating an unregistered motor vehicle, improper use of markers, violation of readable plates, operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and resisting arrest/interfering with an officer.
After officers disabled a stolen vehicle with drop sticks, one of four youths was found to have brass knuckles. He was arrested for illegal possession of a weapon.
An arrest was made for disorderly conduct, following an investigation of a domestic violence incident.
The following citations were also issued:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4 citations
Speeding: 3
Distracted driving: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 3
Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 3
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
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A few years ago, Earthplace lost its longtime supplier of donated raptor food.
Now every year, they need to raise $24,000 to feed Artemis, Chatty, Marble and their friends who found a home there.
Several generous donors recently pledged to match up to $10,000. So between now and July 31, tax-deductible gifts are doubled.
Reaching that goal would feed all their raptors, for a year. Click here to donate.
Speaking of birds: The other day, Johanna Keyser Rossi was walking behind the police station.
She heard a bird. Looking up, she spotted a fake owl on the top of a pole, with a nest next to it. “It didn’t seem to scare off this black bird,” she says.
The fake owl is in the center of the photo. The real bird is at top. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
“There must be a story behind this fake owl,” she adds. “Maybe it discourages the osprey from nesting?”
Got an answer (or an idea)? Click “Comments” below.
Speaking of wildlife: Westport has plenty of deer. It’s far better to see them here — as a “Westport … Naturally” feature — than eating your bushes or leaping out into the road.
Here is a fawn that recently claimed Jerry Kuyper’s yard as its own:
And finally … today is the birthday of Woody Guthrie. He was born in 1912, and died just 55 years later, from Huntington’s disease. But in between he redefined American music, both artistically and politically.
In 1954, he wrote “Old Man Trump.” It describes the racist housing practices of his landlord, Fred Trump — Donald’s father.
I suppose
Old Man Trump knows
Just how much
Racial Hate
He stirred up
In the bloodpot of human hearts
When he drawed
That color line
Here at his Beach Haven family project.
Guthrie never recorded the song. But, according to Wikipedia, in January 2016 Will Kaufman, a Guthrie scholar and professor of American literature and culture, found the handwritten lyrics at the Woody Guthrie Archives in Tulsa.
(This land is your land. And this blog is your blog. But it needs your support! Please click here to donate. Thank you!)
Earlier today, Russian artillery killed 8 civilians and injured 13, in Westport’s sister city of Lyman, Ukraine.
Just 2 days ago, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas and CNN’s Alisyn Camerota drew a large crowd, for their discussion of the town officials’ recent trip to the Donetsk region.
Plenty of others could not make the 2 p.m. event.
Fortunately, the Westport Library and Y’s Men of Westport and Weston taped it all. Click below, for a very important hour.
A little-publicized state law change may have big implications for Westport’s littlest residents.
And their parents.
Governor Lamont signed bill HB 06880 (a total coincidence; nothing to do with the name of this blog) into law on June 27.
It covers a variety of education topics. But one significant change is that beginning with the 2024-25 school year, the kindergarten age cutoff changes from December 31 that school year to September 1, so that any student entering kindergarten must already be 5 years old.
Because enrollment in private “5s” programs generally begins in early fall, families with students who will now be ineligible for kindergarten for the 2024-25 school year may need to think about private options.
Click here for the full bill. The relevant section begins on page 3. (Hat tip: Caroline Ferson)
Ever wanted to go inside Paul Newman’s projection room?
Now you can. It will just cost you at least $700.
Liveauctioneers.com posted this listing for “The Projection Room, Westport, CT”:
“Simplex 35 mm Projectors PR-1003 with Kowa Company Ltd. and other lenses; Kni-tron Xenon Lamp Houses L-100-3 (5134, 5138) with Simplex Electric Changes Overs SA5 (188C, 182C) …” — and 8 other lines of similar technical stuff.
Then came the money shot: “The Newman’s [sic] Westport, CT barn housed a full projection room for screening movies. The above-listed equipment is being sold as-is, to be de-installed and picked up by the buyer in Westport, CT at their expense.” Click here for more information, and to bid. (Hundreds of other Newman items are listed too.)
The projection equipment’s estimated worth is $1,500 to $3,000. The cost of de-installing it yourself in the late actor’s barn: priceless. (Hat tip: Frank Rosen)
A small part of Paul Newman’s projection equipment.
David Bigelow — who lived most of his life in Westport, and with his wife Eunice helped turn Fairfield-based Bigelow Tea company. and its “Constant Comment,” into a national leader in flavored tea — died last month. He was 96.
A celebration of his life is set for August 25 (11 a.m., Greenfield Hill Congregational Church, Fairfield). Memorial contributions to the David and Eunice Bigelow Foundation can be made online, or to 201 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield, CT 06825.
Longtime Westporter Gerald “Jerry” Minsky died Thursday at Yale New Haven Hospital. He was 78.
A graduate of Abraham Lincoln High School of Coney Island, New York and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, he earned an MBA from the University of Buffalo.
Jerry was an executive and mentor in the finance industry for many years. He was an innovator of computer leases and tax shelters, and was involved with the program that put the first camera on the moon.
His family says, “He was a world traveler, who always knew the best places to eat. He loved jazz and blues, and enjoyed cigars in the backyard. He played basketball, and was the first Ben Franklin Mascot.
“Jerry was also an avid tennis and pickleball player, and a late believer in the game of golf. He was an extremely intellectual person who loved reality TV, and family was the center of his world.”
Jerry is survived by his wife Lynne Minsky of Westport; sons Greg and Geoff; grandchildren Jack, Maddie and Sadie Minsky; nephews Richard (Som) Stein and Daniel (Wannarawee) Stein; great-nephew Tankhun Stein, and his cherished dog, Mickey. He was predeceased by his sister Arlene.
A memorial service will be held tomorrow (Sunday, July 9, 3 p.m., Temple). To join a live stream and share a condolence message, click here. Shiva will be observed at the Minsky residence on Sunday following the service, and on Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Mozaic Senior Life (formerly Jewish Senior Services), 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604.
And finally … on this date in 1889, the Wall Street Journal published its first edition.
(Hey, Mr. Businessman: “06880” is a great investment! If you appreciate what we do every day — and have done for 14 years — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Please click here. Thank you!
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