The first candidate has declared an intention to succeed Jonathan Steinberg as Westport’s state representative.
Matthew Mandell — a 20-year member of the Representative Town Meeting (RTM), and the longtime executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — today announced his candidacy for in the 136th District.
Calling himself an advocate for open space preservation and historic protection, Mandell released a video outlining his priorities and reasons for seeking the seat.
In the video he emphasizes the importance of maintaining local control over town planning decisions, while also addressing the need for additional affordable and workforce housing in Westport.
He points to his decades of civic involvement and grassroots leadership as preparation for representing the community in Hartford.
Matthew Mandell
“I have always had Westport’s best interests in mind,” Mandell says. “From preserving the Partrick Wetlands and saving the Kemper Gunn House to creating unique town festivals and most recently spearheading the establishment of an Affordable Housing Fund, I have worked to strengthen this community. I believe I can do even more for Westport by serving at the state level.”
Mandell says his campaign will focus on listening closely to residents and community stakeholders, gathering their concerns and ideas, and working collaboratively to move thoughtful solutions forward.
Additional priorities include strengthening consumer advocacy for residents, and advancing environmental initiatives such as expanded alternative energy and improved recycling and sustainability programs.
In response, DOT communications director Josh Morgan says: “CTDOT has made no decision whether to perform a major rehabilitation or full replacement of the Cribari Bridge.
“Given the complexities of performing work on this historic structure, it was important to have firms lined up for either potential option to ensure construction schedules are met.
“As noted numerous times in the Request for Letters-of-Interest, CTDOT was seeking prequalified firms for both major rehabilitation and replacement options of the bridge.
“If design firms were solicitated after the public hearing and after a formal decision was made, there would have been a significant impact to the construction schedule,” he explains.
Cribari Bridge (Photo/Nancy Lally)
In related news, the state DOT will hold a public hearing on March 19 (6 p.m., Town Hall), on “Rehabilitation/Replacement of the Cribari Memorial Bridge.”
The session will “provide the community with an opportunity to learn about the proposed project, and allow a place to provide feedback concerning the proposed improvements.”
The project involves “a resilient structure that addresses the structural and functional deficiencies of the the existing Cribari Memorial Bridge, which carries Route 136 over the Saugatuck River, while accommodating safe vehicular, bicycle, pedestrian and marine traffic,” the announcement adds.
DOT spokesman Morgan notes that the flyer includes both potential options: rehabilitation and replacement.
Morgan says, “We know there is interest in this project, which is why we created that Save the Date flyer so people could mark their calendars before legal notices ran in the local papers. These public notices will be published over the next several weeks inviting the public to attend the March 19 hearing. We encourage residents, businesses, and those interested in the future of the Cribari Bridge to attend the public hearing, ask questions, and give feedback.”
The question is: How can the DOT go to bid if the Environmental Study is not complete, as well as the Section 106 Federal Historic Study also being incomplete?
Maybe they can, but it seems out of order. It certainly catches us all by surprise. (For a previous”06880″story on Section 106, click here.)
There is also a DOT meeting set for Westport on March 19. I surely had not heard about this one either, but there it was on the site. Click here to see the flyer.
Here is the whole DOT site to read about all aspects of the bridge and project.
This is a bit befuddling for sure.
Timing is everything. In the last few days, hearing from concerned residents regarding the bridge, RTM Districts 1, 4 and 9, as the closest districts to the bridge, were planning to have a public meeting to discuss the bridge.
We wanted to also hear from the public as well. in a different venue than that of a DOT meeting. There has not be something close to a resident discussion since the PAC in 2018.
While there are different views on what should be done, the idea of large trucks seems to be a common thread. We are working on a date toward the end of the month. It will be via Zoom.
(Other RTM districts, hold tight. I spoke with the moderator. Let’s get this one going and have it not be a meeting of the body. Attend if you want of course, and it can expand if needed as we move forward.)
I always say we need to remain vigilant. Thanks to a diligent ally who went to the site to simply take a look at what might be up.
After 16 years, Westport will have a new representative in Hartford.
CT Mirror broke the story yesterday that Jonathan Steinberg — the 1974 Staples High School graduate, who has represented the 136th District for 8 terms — will not seek re-election to the General Assembly’s House of Representatives.
State Representative Jonathan Steinberg
Steinberg said that he told fellow Democrats in Westport of his plans months ago. Until the online service asked though, he said he had “been able to avoid it being broadcast across the globe.”
The news broke when Matthew Mandell — a Representative Town Meeting member, and executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — registered to run for the seat on Wednesday.
“It’s been a long time,” Steinberg said. “I think I’ve had a good run … My wife retired in October. She’s happily retired at home. I’ll be 70 in a few weeks. Seems like the right time.”
Steinberg’s current term ends next January.
Mandell told “06880” he will make a formal announcement of his candidacy soon.
It’s nice that Westport attracts high-end national chains. They bring a certain cachet to town.
But they don’t make this place go.
Small businesses are both the economic driver and the emotional heart of 06880.
Savvy + Grace. JL Rocks. Stephen Kempson. Earth Animal. Calise’s Deli. The Grapevine. WEST. Westport Hardware. Organic Market. Party Harty. Your favorite restaurant (except McDonald’s).
Those are the places where everyone knows your name. Where they know your preferences. Where we go when we need a program ad, a raffle or auction item, a flyer in the window.
Behind all that are small business owners struggling to stay, well, in business. They have rents to pay, payrolls to meet, town regulations to follow — and of course, the very real battle to convince customers to buy from them, and not online.
AI — the technological marvel that has transformed education, healthcare, big business and many other areas of modern life — can help small businesses too.
But most owners are so busy doing all the things noted above, they don’t have time to figure out what AI can do for them.
Plus: As good as artificial intelligence is, it’s global in scale. It works by scraping up an unfathomable amount of information from everywhere, then figuring out patterns of words and phrases.
AI knows what’s going on around the planet. It does not necessarily know what’s happening on the Post Road.
Until now.
Westport resident Jay Norris has a long and successful career in business, real estate and technology. He’s been a board member of the Westport Library and Westport Weston Family YMCA.
He knows the town. He knows AI. And he knows how both can work together.
Norris’ newest venture is ThoughtPartnr. The AI model is designed to help small and mid-size businesses streamline operations, make informed decisions, create content, and accelerate growth.
And its national rollout is taking place right here in Westport.
Yesterday, Norris and his ThoughtPartnr team joined the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce at The Clubhouse. Several dozen members learned how the “local language model” — as opposed to the more familiar “large language model” — can help their own businesses and ventures use Chamber and community data to assist with marketing, operations, compliance, funding and growth.
Someone thinking of opening a new restaurant here might, for example, find all the steps needed through ThoughtPartnr — including links to all permits needed.
Chamber of Commerce attendees were intrigued. They were particularly impressed when a Friends of Sherwood Island board member asked how, specifically, ThoughtPartnr could help find grants, and raise funds.
Matt Snow typed in that prompt. Almost instantly — on The Clubhouse’s big screen, for all to see — the local AI delivered a host of resources: the Westport Woman’s Club, environmental organizations, and along with advice on how to apply for state grants, links to applications, and much more.
The difference between those responses and ChatGPT, say, is that the latter would provide much more generic information, based on how a non-profit in general could get grants.
From left: Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell; ThoughtPartnr’s founder Jay Norris, technology advisor Anil Nair, and chief marketing officer Matt Snow. (Photo/Frank Bruce)
AI of any kind is clearly helpful. But it can hallucinate. And sometimes, users need human help.
That is one more element to ThoughtPartnr. Subscribers gain access to real, live local experts, who can answer questions, build on suggestions, and leverage the AI information even more personally.
Westport Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell announced that members will have free use of ThoughtPartnr from now to the end of 2026.
They’ll be part of a big rollout. With Mandell’s help, Norris hopes to network with Chambers of Commerce around the country.
He’s starting small, in his home town.
But he has large plans. And he can make them succeed.
Among Norris’ many hats: He chairs the Technology and Innovation Council for the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.
Today, Westport. Tomorrow, New York.
And then: small businesses, all across the country.
There were no fireworks or personal attacks at today’s selectman’s debate.
David Rosenwaks, Kevin Christie and Don O’Day — the 3 candidates for first selectman — and Amy Wistreich and Andrea Moore, running mates of the latter two — agreed on the need for proactive planning and collaboration.
All cited their experience, in a variety of endeavors.
And all agreed on the need for a parking deck at the Baldwin lot.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event at the Westport Library drew a crowd of about 150. with more watching on livestream. They listened to calm, reasoned answers to questions from Chamber director Matthew Mandell.
From left: Kevin Christie, Amy Wistreich, David Rosenwaks, Andrea Moore, Don O’Day, moderator Matthew Mandell.
Differences were in emphasis, not policy. O’Day and Moore — running on the Republican ticket — cited their managerial experience, both professionally and on 2 school building committees and as current 2nd selectwoman, respectively.
Democrats Christie and Wistreich noted their work sitting on 2 elected boards — Education and the Planning & Zoning Commission, respectively.
Rosenwaks cited his Independent Party endorsement, being beholden to neither party.
There was some daylight between them regarding Westport’s relationship with the state Department of Transportation’s involvement in the Post Road project, the Cribari Bridge and a new maintenance facility on the Sherwood Island Connector.
Christie noted the Democrats’ relationships with the governing party in Hartford. O’Day and Rosenwaks countered with their abilities to work across the aisle.
Both Rosenwaks and Wistreich said that on “Day 1,” their administrations would hold meetings with stakeholders in DOT projects.
David Rosenwaks
All agreed that the $400 million-plus capital plan is not set in stone. O’Day was the only candidate to set priorities — Coleytown Elementary School and the Longshore clubhouse and Inn — while Wistreich floated the idea of a townwide facilities manager, to also oversee Board of Ed assets.
There was agreement on the need for some kind of development in Saugatuck — though not at the scale proposed by ROAN Ventures for the ill-fated Hamlet project — and the importance of meetings with the developer (who has options on the property),
Wistreich called it “a generational project that will transform this town forever. And Westport is not for sale.”
Moore agreed with her rival for second selectwoman. “This is such an emotional project. If we don’t talk, and get the grown-ups in the room together, we will continue to get nothing done.”
Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich.
Rosenwaks cited Darien as an example of a public/private partnership that works for development, while O’Day said he preferred private development in Saugatuck.
In the area of state mandates for affordable housing, all agreed on the need for solutions. They praised State Representative Jonathan Steinberg for voting against HB 5002, which would have taken local control away from zoning near transportation hubs. They also hailed Westport’s Affordable Housing Fund (though, as Moore noted, its current $1.5 million will not go far).
Christie said, “We want more control — and credit for what we’re doing.”
The only applause in the 90-minute session came during a discussion of downtown parking, when Wistreich said, “It’s time to stop taking about Parker Harding, and do something.”
Andrea Moore and Don O’Day.
All the candidates had previously voiced support for a parking deck, and urged action by the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee. Christie advocated for businesses to be represented on that body. Moore noted that some had been on it yet not participated, but that Massimo Tullio, owner of Massi Co, has just been added.
The final questions were about the Community Gardens, and climate change.
O’Day said that Parks & Recreation director Erik Barbieri is working on a garden site, and that as first selectman he would support the director.
Christie said, “Amy and I would have brought everyone together, at the beginning. That would have saved a lot of time.”
As for sea rise, flood mitigation and other environmental concerns, O’Day noted, “You can’t manage what you can’t measure.” Data, he said, would lead to “action, and an embrace of science.”
Part of the debate crowd at the Westport Library. (All photos/Dan Woog)
The Parks & Recreation Department oversees 4 beaches*, 21 parks, and 14 athletic fields.
Each one — from the big boys like Winslow and Baron’s South, to teeny Machamux Park and the often-forgotten Burr Farms fields — has its passionate admirers.
And each one could use a bit (or a lot) of improvement.
Westport’s beaches, parks and athletic fields, displayed on an easel at Town Hall.
Parks & Rec director Erik Barbieri took a first step toward understanding what Westporters want last night. He hosted the first Westport Parks Master Plan Community Workshop, at Town Hall.
Fifty residents heard two 2 consultants — BL Companies and Sports Facilities Advisors — discuss their work. They divided attendees into 2 groups, to provide initial input on what works well, what doesn’t, and what they’d like to see.
Westporters offered a wide range of comments. The consultants listened, asked questions, and took plenty of notes.
Still ahead: stakeholder interviews, an online survey, and workshops.
Nothing was decided last night. It won’t be, for a while.
But Barbieri wants Westporters to have their say. He wants to listen.
*Canal Beach on Saugatuck Shores is the one you may never have heard of.
Parks & Rec Erik Barbieri introduces last night’s Master Plan Community Workshop. (Photos/Dan Woog)
================================================
The Hamlet at Saugatuck has spawned nearly as many meetings as it has opinions.
Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (April 28, 6 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) will include a discussion on developer ROAN Ventures’ amended presentation. Public comment will follow.
Also ahead: the Conservation Commission on Wednesday (April 30, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) and Flood & Erosion Control Board (May 6, 7 p.m., Zoom).
To view documents, drawings and other material related to The Hamlet, click here, then scroll down.
Speaking of Saugatuck: VFW Post 399 — located just up Riverside Avenue from the proposed Hamlet project — dedicates its new marina this Sunday (April 27).
The 1:05 p.m. start is a nod to the Westport VFW’s 105th anniversary.
Speaking of which: With dredging of the new dock behind VFW Post 399 completed, those boats have made their last trip on the river.
But a new vessel is on the water. The Army Corps of Engineers has begun gathering data, to help with permits for the upcoming (larger, and government-funded) Saugatuck River dredging project.
So — for a while at least — the temporary Cribari Bridge openings will continue.
Army Corps vessel, passing through the Cribari Bridge. (Hat tip and photo/Robbie Guimond)
================================================
As the Compo Beach playground rebuild nears the finish line, organizers want to make sure that everyone who wants to help, can.
Volunteers can now drop in for as much (or as little) time as they can give, today (Friday) or tomorrow. One hour, 2 — or an entire morning or afternoon — if it works for you, it works for them.
And you don’t have to sign up online (though if you want to, click here). You can just stop by the registration desk at the playground. They’ll put you to work.
“Every set of hands makes a huge difference,” they say. “We’re grateful for any time you can give.”
The new Compo Beach playground nears completion. (Drone photo/RB Benson)
================================================
What do high school students think about their unique identity — shaped by race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and more — and how that identity contributes to Westport’s character?
And how well do they express those fraught, yet important, ideas?
On Monday (6 p.m., Westport Library), the public gets a chance to hear from students themselves. The winners of TEAM Westport’s Teen Diversity Essay Contest will be announced.
They’ll accept their prize checks — and read their essays.
For over a dozen years, the ceremony has offered an inspiring window into the way today’s young people think, and view the world.
And how well they express those views.
If Monday is like many previous years, the answer will be: Very, very well.
=================================================
It’s not the biggest issue the Planning & Zoning Commission deals with (see Hamlet story above), but at a recent meeting they voted in favor of extending — for 2 more years — a special permit to allow the continued parking of First Student school buses at Coleytown and Bedford schools.
There seem to be no issues with using those spaces — and more, at the Greens Farms train station. And moving the parking away from Post Road East, behind the Mobil gas station opposite Playhouse Square, used by the previous vendor Dattco, has done wonders for afternoon traffic in that area.
(Photo/Amy Schneider)
=================================================
Just added to the Levitt Pavilion summer lineup:
Dark Star Orchestra (July 19). For over 20 years and 3,000 shows, they’ve continued the Grateful Dead’s live concert experience. Each set list is different; each reproduced the legendary band’s style and soundm while offering their own interpretations. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Josh Ritter & the Royal City Band, with Bhi Bhiman (August 20). Ritter is one of today’s most thought and prolific voices. The New York Times calls him “a linger of serious ideas and high-flown imagery.” Bhiman is also an acclaimed singer/ songwriter. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Westport’s Department of Human Services makes sure that all local families can. Each year at this time, they launch season fundraising efforts.
“In today’s economic climate, affordable childcare — especially in summer — is more than a convenience. It’s a necessity,” says director Elaine Daignault.
“Camp programs ensure children have access to safe, enriching experiencesl while allowing parents to maintain employment and financial stability.”
“Camps offer so much more than supervision,” adds youth and family specialist Annette D’Augelli. “It gives kids the chance to form friendships, build confidence, and create cherished memories in a supportive, structured environment. For parents — especially single-parent households — reliable, affordable care during summer break makes it possible to keep their jobs and put food on the table.”
A second program — the Ceremonies & Celebrations Fund — provides gift cards to income-eligible 8th and 12th grade graduates, so that families can mark important achievements with pride. Donations help purchase a graduation outfit, cover the cost of a celebratory meal, or simply allow families to honor their children’s hard work and milestones with dignity.
Click here to donate online, or mail a check to: Department of Human Services, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880. Questions? Call 203-341-1050, or email adaugelli@westportct.gov.
Summer camp is important for youngsters — and their working parents. (Photo/Jaime Bairaktaris)
One of Westport’s most popular traditions, the Minute Man Race — actually, a 10K run, 5K run, 5K walk and kids’ fun run, plus a Kids’ Zone with games and entertainment — returns this Sunday (April 27, Compo Beach, 8 a.m.).
There are prizes for top finishers in each age category, plus food trucks, beer, a DJ, bounce house and more. Beach stickers are not required.
All net proceeds benefit the Westport Young Woman’s League Grants program. Last year, they awarded $65,000 to 9 non-profits doing vital work across Fairfield County.
Speaking of outdoor fun: Westport Softball has drafted a big name to throw out the first pitch, at tomorrow’s opening day (Saturday, 9 a.m., Meyer Field, Compo Road North).
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will do the honors, inaugurating the season for more than 130 playrs from pre-K through 8th grade.
=================================================
Content Studio has become one of Westport’s premier event spaces.
The Westport Downtown Association gathered there yesterday, for a combination social and informational meeting.
A few dozen businesses heard WDA president Maxx Crowley and his staff describe annual events like the Fine Arts Festival, Westoberfest and Holiday Stroll, and learned how — whatever their products or services — they can be part of the downtown community.
Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley, onstage at Content Studio.
The important Australia and New Zealand holiday — honoring military members from those countries who served and died in wars around the world — grew out of the brutal Gallipoli battle, waged in Turkey during World War I.
That campaign is memorialized in one of Australia’s most famous songs. The message is anti-war — but the sacrifice of those soldiers comes through loud and clear.
(From Saugatuck to Australia, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. If you like our hyper-local coverage — and the way we tie it together globally — please click here to supporto us. Thank you!)
The Hamlet at Saugatuck — the retail/residential/hotel/marina proposal to remake part of Westport’s first commercial neighborhood — is moving through the regulatory process.
Yesterday, Matthew Mandell — the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member whose District 1 includes Saugatuck — sent this report.
This Monday (March 24, 6 p.m., Zoom), Planning & Zoning Commission hearings continue with a staff report, questions by the P&Z, and the first of a number of town-hired consultants speaking.
The public might be gotten to, but there is time to absorb more before speaking
Earlier on Monday (noon), the P&Z will take a field trip to Saugatuck. If you are interested in watching the P&Z tour, come along. I am sure you will learn something. (NOTE: Only the P&Z may ask questions. This is not a public hearing.)
Drones will be flown to show the heights of the buildings.
Artists’ rendering of Hamlet buildings, on Riverside Avenue.
Here is a timeline. The Thursday (March 27) hearing has been canceled. Consultants paid for by the applicant (The Hamlet) have been hired to vet and double check the application and proposal. That’s part of the process.
A major consultant, though, has not begun their work, because the fee was paid only late this week.
As there is a statutory time constraint to this process, P&Z asked the developers for a 65-day extension (the norm). Their attorney gave them 35 days.
More extensions will be required, so why not just do it all now?
What happens if time runs out, and there is more to do? IMHO, the P&Z would deliver a denial without prejudice, and a new application would need to be filed. Better to get all the extensions than go through that hassle.
The Hamlet proposal includes “re-skinning” the 21 Charles Street building (opposite Zucca Gastrobar, at the corner of Franklin Street.
The Flood & Erosion Control Board will hear the application April 2. They will probably need this new consultant’s report to properly engage. So another hearing might be needed, as time is tight now for the consultant to do their work.
This would then go to the Conservation Commission, to weigh both waterway issues and the environmental clean-up.
Those hearings begin April 23 and continue to April 30, with a decision sometime in May.
These meetings are a big part of the process. I have seen slam dunk proposals get sidetracked by conservation issues.
P&Z will continue down its road, with another hearing March 31, probably April 7, and on into late April and May.
P&Z cannot close their hearing until a Conservation decision has been handed to them. It could be into June before a full decision is made, but late May is possible.
A view of the Saugatuck area proposed for redevelopment. Rememediation would be needed in the area of Minute Man Cleaners (above). Decades ago, it was the site of an automobile dealership.
All this is besides approvals by the state Department of Transporation and possibly other agencies, governing many of the things proposed. P&Z does not usually base decisions on future third-party decisions.
There are other pieces. An 8-24 for use of town property will also need to be filed with P&Z, which could slow the timeline.
The Historic District Commission will have to weigh in as well, as every building involved is under their jurisdiction — not just the historic ones on Railroad Place.
The Board of Selectwomen, acting as the town’s Traffic Authority, will also need to render decisions on traffic and parking issues.
This is a very large proposal. Much needs to be looked at. The public has already begun to engage, with letters into the file and opinion pieces in the press. I anticipate this will continue, and increase.
(To delve into the ever-expanding list of items concerning the proposal and application, click here.)
A reader wrote: “What is the status of capital improvements at Longshore?
“With pickleball one of the nation’s fastest growing sports, Westport is clearly behind the times. We have only 2 courts at the beach, 2 at Saugatuck Elementary School (which can only be used when school is out), and 4 courts that are not in good shape at Town Farms.”
I asked Rick Giunta, Westport Parks & Recreation Department deputy director, for an update. He says:
“We’re excited to begin the process of the Longshore Capital Improvement Plan.
“Late last week, an RFP was issued for architectural and engineering services for the design and permitting of a new parks maintenance facility within Longshore Club Park.
“Once the current maintenance facility has been relocated, it paves the way to tackle other projects within the Capital Improvement Plan, including the addition of pickleball courts.
“As this process may take several years, there have been discussions to investigate the possibility of adding 2 pickleball courts to Compo Beach in the near term. We’re looking at issuing an RFP soon for this purpose.
“Currently, in addition to the 2 pickleball courts at Compo Beach, 4 will be painted on the tennis courts at Doubleday as well as 4 currently painted on the courts at Town Farms.”
Pickleball courts at Compo Beach. (Photo/DinkinEsh Fotografix)
=================================================
The dog days of autumn continue (see yesterday’s Roundup for a leashed/ unleashed debate about Compo Beach).
A reader writes: “I’m a long-time Westport resident in my early 70s, who enjoys lovely off-season walks at Compo Beach. Although reasonably spry, my replacement body parts makes me cognizant of potential obstacles.
“The boardwalk, pavilion and playground are now overrun with dogs, particularly on weekends. While attempting to negotiate the boardwalk 2 weekends ago, within 20 minutes, I took photos of 20 dogs on the walkway, on retractable leashes (fully extended), or entirely off leash.
“I had the dubious fortune to see a dog defecate at the entrance to the playground. I told the owners that was beyond inappropriate. They picked up most of the poop and said, ‘no big deal.'”
“The congestion caused by the massive disregard for civilian traffic makes the supposed off limits areas very difficult to navigate.
“I went to Parks & Rec, and was told ‘there’s no enforcement,’ with no staff or resource to provide guidance, warnings, or tickets. I was told ‘call the selectwoman’s office,’ which is humorous.
“Why have sane and reasonable guidelines to share the beach, without some effort to control the overreach of dog owners?
“I’ll end my diatribe by saying that we love dogs, enjoy babysitting for our son’s beloved dog so, this is not a case of a disgruntled ‘get off my lawn’ crankpot. Just a resident who wishes safe access to our beloved beach.”
Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk. (Photo/Carm Roda)
As executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and Representative Town Meeting from District 1, Matthew Mandell has followed closely the discussions about renovating the Saugatuck River railroad bridge — and the pedestrian walkway next to it.
He says: “On Monday night, the state Department of Transportation held a Zoom call regarding a second project to extend the lifespan of the Saugatuck River train bridge, prior to the full rebuild slated for 2035.
“On a call in April, they outlined work to be done on the mechanical lifts and electrical needed to run them. They said there might be sporadic closures of the walkway to bring in and stage the machinery, but nothing major. Their goal was not to impede the walkway.
“This new call was about work on the 2 towers on either side of the span. The ladders that go up, the platforms for rest climbing and staging, and the guy wires are in terrible shape and need to be replaced.
“This work will be done in 2025. They made it very clear, after stating it and then answering my question to confirm, that the walkway over the bridge will not be impacted. A scaffold will be placed at the end of Ferry Lane East to ensure safe pedestrian passage.
“Work will mostly be done at night. Lights will be trained on the work, and not disturb the neighborhood. Hat tip to RTM member Chris Tait for asking about the lighting.”
Saugatuck River railroad bridge — and the pedestrian walkway. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)
=================================================
It’s a busy fall at Wakeman Town Farm.
And there’s something for everyone, from tots to retirees. Offerings include:
Learn to Compost with Alice Ely (October 28, 7:30 p.m.)
Fall Pumpkin Centerpiece Workshop (October 29, 6:30 p.m.)
Farm Sessions for Neuro-diverse Youth (November 2, 9, 16; ages 3-10, 9 to 9:45 a.m.; ages 11+, 10 to 10:45 a.m.)
Election Day Camp (November 5, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
Dahlia Workshop (November 9, 12 p.m.)
Fall Cooking, Grades K-2 (Mondays, November 18 through December 16, 4:15 to 5:30 p.m.)
Fall Flavors with Laura Weinman (November 19, 6:30 to 9 p.m.; $110 per person, BYOB)
Autumn Bits & Delights Cooking. Grades 2-6 (Wednesdays, November 20 through December 18, 4:15 to 5:30 p.m.)
Appetizers and Book Signing with Chef Alison Milwe Grace (December 3, 7 to 8:30 p.m.; $75, includes cookbook).
Click here for more information, and registration.
Attention, non-profits looking for space in a community-focused co-op.
Blau House & Gardens — the dramatic mid-century home off Bayberry lane surrounded by lush gardens and nature — is seeking 1 to 3 non-profit tenants, in the arts, culture, horticulture or environmental sectors.
Flexible office, meeting and event spaces are available, including use of the gardens.
Rent is $9,700 a month, plus shared utilities. Other options are available.
Erick Russell — who has the job — gave Westport Rotary Club members an overview of his office.
He also talked about his major goal: to lower costs and give opportunity, security and quality of life to all Connecticut residents.
To help narrow the large wealth gap, Connecticut Baby Bonds invests $3,200 in each low-income baby born in the state. It will be distributed to them when they are between 18 and 30, as capital to start building a secure financial future.
Russell also discussed the importance of investing in affordable housing.
State treasurer Erick Russell (Photo/Ellin Curley)
===============================================
Last weekend, the Head of the Charles Regatta — the Super Bowl of rowing, with 11,000 athletes and 400,000 spectators — hosted the first-ever race made up exclusively of cancer survivors.
Eleven boats from 17 clubs around the world raced.
Among them: the Saugatuck SurviveOARS, out of Saugatuck Rowing club. Theiri pink boat included coxswain Alison Reilly. The Westport resident has coxed the Head of the Charles over 30 times in her career.
The SRC Junior Rowing Program also had a strong showing Sunday at the regatta.
The Saugatuck SurviveOARS, at the Head of the Charls.
The Women’s Youth 8+ took second and fourth place in a category, competing against 90 boats from around the world.
The Junior Rowing Program brought 7 boats and 51 athletes to the regatta.
Fifteen Westport girls were among the 23 SRC medalists. Congratulations to Charlotte Seymour , Sofia Martin, Maddie Speller, Delaney Rose Lundberg, Clementine Kirt, Sophie Cochran, Rylie Cordella, Carolina Proctor, Kate Weitz, Alice Frascella, Mina Leon, Samantha Weitz, Emily Lust, Ashlyn Frey and Olivia Saw, plus Anne Studnicky and Hannah Makmale of Weston.
The Saugatuck Women’s Youth 8+A team (from left): Phoebe Bryan, Sophie Cochran, Hannah Makmale, Clementine Kirt, Madeline Casano, Rose Lundberg, Maddie Speller, Sofia Martin, Charlotte Seymour, Coach Mike O’Hara.
The ESPN chairman and Westport resident will receive the VOICES 2024 Leadership Award November 14, at the New York Athletic Club.
The annual Always Remember Gala is sponsored by Voices Center for Resilience.ESPN’s Mike Greenberg — a former Westporter — is the MC.
Voices Center for Resilience (VOICES) provides long-term support for thousands of people impacted by 9/11, and helps communities prepare for other tragedies.
Pitaro will be recognized for his leadership, devoting ESPN’s time and resources to produce the “Comeback Season” exhibit at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and the television special hosted by Greenberg. Both show how sports united and helped heal the nation after the 2001 terrorist attacks.
Last year, Pitaro was named Innovator of the Year by StartUp Westport.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features Riverside Park.
(Photo/Dan Vener)
Photographer Dan Vener says, “If your glass is half full, this shows someone enjoying a hammock in the park.
“If your glass is half empty, it’s a tree strangler!”
=================================================
And finally … on this date in 1864, the Battle of Westport — the last significant Civil War engagement west of the Mississippi River — ended in a Union victory.
The event — sometimes called “The Gettysburg of the West” — was fought in what is now Kansas City, Missouri. Over 30,000 troops were involved.
It was the turning point of Confederate Major General Sterling Price’s Missouri Expedition, forcing his army to retreat. For the rest of the war, the US Army maintained solid control over most of Missouri.
(“06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” That includes Westport, Missouri. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog — with its global touch — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Posted onAugust 11, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: WTF Harvest Fest, PAL Golf, EMS Band-Aid …
One of the hottest — and coolest — tickets in town is for Harvest Fest.
The annual Wakeman Town Farm event — their biggest fundraiser of the year — is set for September 14 (6 p.m.).
Held at the Farm grounds, it features seasonal fare by local farmers and chefs, 2 live bands, and wine and signature cocktails.
There is also a live auction, including culinary and travel experiences like private chef dinners in the WTF’s Tim’s Kitchen, VIP trips, a Wine Wall, and a paddle raise to help fund the renovated barn.
For over 70 years, the Westport Police Athletic League has been a friend to kids. Through athletic programs, scholarships and more, they’ve helped generations of youngsters.
Their fundraising golf tournament has been around for “only” 62 years. But it’s one reason the PAL can do what it does.
This year’s event is September 9 (10 a.m. check-in, Longshore Club Park). The day includes a shotgun start, the golf tourney, cocktails and dinner (plus raffles and prizes).
If Band-Aid is as great as its name is clever, next month’s Westport Emergency Medical Service fundraiser will be quite an event.
A Band-Aid helps stop bleeding. That’s part of an EMT’s job too. And, 2 great bands — Teacup Sallie and Vintage — will play on September 14 (5 to 8 p.m., Cedar Point Yacht Club).
Band-Aid will also feature DJ Mo. Food is available from Big Green Truck Pizza.
100% of ticket proceeds will benefit Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service. Click here to purchase, and for more information. (Hat tip and promotion: Judy Michaelis)
=================================================
A large crowd filled the Sheffer Barn yesterday, for a Westport Country Playhouse tag sale.
The historic theater put hundreds of items up for sale: clothes, autographed posters, and other memorabilia and items.
Among the shoppers: Staples Players co-directors David Roth and Kerry Long. They scooped up plenty of bargains for their costume room,
One prize was a Santa suit. It will come in handy for their fall production: “Elf.”
They’re looking for more Santa suits too. If you’ve got one (or more), email shsplayers@westportps.org.
David Roth, with his Santa suit. He needs more! (Photo/Kerry Long)
================================================
Also yesterday: a sold-out (okay, “full” — tickets were free) crowd packed Levitt Pavilion, for a great show by Ollabelle.
The gospel/folk/mountain music band recently played the Kennedy Center and Caramoor. Now they can add more prestigious venue to their list.
Tonight (7 p.m.): The Levitt welcomes back the Grammy Award-winning American Patchwork Quartet.
They’re known for American folk songs infused with jazz, country twang, West African hypnotics and East Asian ornamentation. Click here for free tickets.
Last night at the Levitt Pavilion (Photo/Susan Garment)
And finally … today is National Hip Hop Celebration Day.
It was made official by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer last July, following the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.
This is — from a few sources, anyway — the best-selling hip hop single of all time:
(“06880” is happy to promote the many worthy fundraisers, by many great organizations, in Westport. We’re a non-profit too, and we rely on reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)
Comments Off on Roundup: WTF Harvest Fest, PAL Golf, EMS Band-Aid …
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
DOT spokesman Morgan notes that the flyer includes both potential options: rehabilitation and replacement.
Timing is everything. In the last few days, hearing from concerned residents regarding the bridge, RTM Districts 1, 4 and 9, as the closest districts to the bridge, were planning to have a public meeting to discuss the bridge.
But most owners are so busy doing all the things noted above, they don’t have time to figure out what AI can do for them.
