Many Westporters have followed the progress of the Ned Dimes Marina (Compo Beach) renovation project with interest. The Parks & Recreation Department says:
We are pleased to report that the bulk of the work has been completed. The construction barge was removed from the site last Friday.
While major construction activities are now complete, some finishing work remains, including final pier improvements and work by plumbers and electricians. The launch ramp will open on Monday (June 15).
Electrical service to the marina continues to be delayed, due to modifications required by Eversource.
Last week, the Department of Public Works approved a change order to install a generator bypass to the marina electrical panel. This work will be completed by June 26, though the hope is it will be sooner.
New walkway at Ned Dimes Marina. (Photo/Eric Bosch)
Generator service to the AB Dock will be delayed pending a change order approval by the Public Works Department. The generator will remain in place for the remainder of the 2026 boating season, with full power restoration anticipated for the beginning of the 2027 season.
Once the generator bypass is operational, boats will be able to charge by plugging into dock electrical service on a scheduled basis. The charging schedule will be determined based on total electrical load requirements. and will be communicated to all marina users once finalized.
With the generator providing a reduced total capacity to the marina, it is requested that boaters refrain from using air conditioning or refrigeration, as it may cause the generator to overload and turn off.
Until further notice, no fueling services will be available at Compo Marina. We will also evaluate the possibility of opening pump-out services for vessels based on marina load requirements and available generator capacity.
Please note that the South Beach restrooms will remain closed until further review of generator capabilities. If it is determined the generator can handle the electrical draw of the restrooms, they will be opened. Port-a-potties will remain at this location until the restrooms are operational.
Events scheduled at the Ned Dimes Marina clubhouse, Camp Compo, and activities utilizing the lights at the Compo basketball vourts will operate using a generator bypass and portable generator. Hosts of events should check in at the Compo Beach entrance gate upon arrival, where staff will assist with generator startup and building connections.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we complete the final stages of this project. Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available.
There’s one less place to get vapes and other paraphernalia — plus, according to police reports. joints, canisters of THC flower, cannabis resin and edibles — in town today.
The Savvy Smoker — a scourge of neighbors, and an unwelcome neighbor of fashion designer Christian Soriano, who opened a store in the same Post Road East mini-plaza, back when Subway occupied the space — has closed.
All signage has been removed. (Hat tip: Christian Hunter)
Scores of Westporters took advantage of nice weather — and a special invitation — to tour Prospect Gardens yesterday.
The magnificent 9-acre arboretum-style Greens Farms space is open to the public only twice a year.
Main garden designers Cindy Shumate and Judy Gardner were there all day, telling stories and answering questions.
Greens Farms Garden Club members explained how they plant, tend and harvest the 3-tiered vegetable garden. Last season, their harvest of over 1000 pounds was donated to local organizations that feed families in need.
The next public event is set for September.
One view of Prospect Gardens …
… and another. (Photos/Candice Cardenas)
=================================================
We’ve got a new header photo for “06880.” William Weiss took this great image of Ned Dimes Marina:
Kerri Kenney-Silver is an actress, comedian, writer, singer, and musician. As Trudy on “Reno 911!” she was nominated for 4 Emmys. She was the only female cast member on MTV’s “The State,” she’s been on “Superstore,” “2 Broke Girls,” “Love” and “The Ellen Show,” and she fronted the all-female rock band Cake Like.
Kerri is also a 1988 Staples High School graduate.
On Friday, the Wall Street Journal profiled her. She notes the first time she felt noticed — in 4th grade, when she teased a substitute teacher — as well as feeling “miserable and inadequate” in middle school.
Staples was different. She discovered Players — the theater company. “I knew immediately I fit in,” she says.
Looking both ways — and keeping their young ones together — these Canada geese parents look just like Westport moms and dads, out with their kids at Compo Beach.
Well, not “just like.” Those outfits are sadly lacking in aura.
And finally … following up on the news about Savvy Smoker (story above):
(From pot to pizza, “06880” has the local business scene covered. If you enjoy these daily Roundups — or any other feature of our hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
One of 3 new Ned Dimes Marina gangways, ready for installation. Photographer Eric Bosch says, “they’re long! With a bunch more, you could have a pedestrian walkway out to Seymour Rock.”
A new (and temporary) look for the Ned Dimes Marina. (Photo/Ron Poserina Jr.)
It was removed — temporarily — as part of a project to replace the piers, wood dock and deck at the office and clubhouse.
The Parks & Recreation Department reports that, due to extreme winter conditions that impacted water and electrical service on the docks (as well as South Beach bathroom facilities), water service to the docks at Ned Dimes Marina will be restored by late May.
Electrical service will be delayed until sometime in June. Officials are working on a solution for boaters to be able to charge batteries starting in June, most likely on a temporary generator supply to the individual docks.
South Beach bathroom facilities cannot be opened until the project is done. completion. Temporary facilities will remain until the restrooms are opened.
Meanwhile, also over on South Beach, Parks & Rec is installing power. It will be used for special events like LobsterFest.
Security cameras may be added too.
Electrical trench on South Beach. (Photo/Dorothy Robertshaw)
Parks & Rec also notes issues with navigational aids at the entrance to the Saugatuck River channel.
Can 5 and Nun 6 are missing. Nun 8 and Can 9 are significantly off station. The Coast Guard has been notified, and will replace them as soon as possible.
One of the most interesting properties in Westport is on the market.
And it’s the first time for it, in 65 years.
4 Sherwood Island Lane is a 7-bedroom, 6 1/2-bathroom, 6,215-square foot home — on a 20.85 acre lot.
You don’t see that very often these days.
4 Sherwood Island Lane
Located off the Sherwood Island Connector, south of I-95 on the way to Sherwood Island State Park, it’s been owned by the same family for nearly 7 decades.
There are no immediate neighbors — but plenty of birdlife and other nature.
The property includes 2 1940s 3-bedroom guesthouses with water views — plus a tennis court, indoor pool, pool house and formal gardens.
Efforts will lead to mitigation that can reduce loss of property and life due to floods, severe wind, winter storms, wildfires, droughts, extreme heat and earthquakes.
Damage from Hurricane Isaias on Grove Point Road. (Photo/John Kantor)
=================================================
A large crowd filled Clarendon Fine Art Thursday night, for a reception with Mr. Brainwash.
The French-born, Los Angeles based artist earned international prominence through the Bansky film “Exit Through the Gift Shop.”
The current exhibition reimagines Van Gogh’s most recognizable motifs through his signature fusion of street art, vibrant color, mixed media and layered cultural references
The show runs through May 3. For more information, click here.
Mr. Brainwash, with one of his works. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)
=================================================
As summer arrives, Fleet Feet is racing ahead.
On the local running store’s calendar:
Apex Performance Runner’s Workshop (April 27, 5 p.m.): New client specials and custom footwear fittings.
Moms Who Move (May 6, 5 to 6:30 p.m.): Women-focused movement workshop
Kane Summer Launch x Beastie Burger (May 11, 5 to 6:30 p.m.): Try on new Kane footwear; bites from Beastie Burger
Congratulations to Staples High School’s We the People team.
Suzanne Kammerman’s class recently returned from national competition in Washington, where one group won the “Unit 4” award.
The competition is a congressional mock trial hearing. Students showed mastery of different parts of the Constitution, Bill of Rights, American history and the 3 branches of government. government. Participants are judged on their ability to understand, apply, and reasoning.
Unit 4 winners include Chloe Beitel, Mehmet Madigan, Lauren Potter and Leo Viner. All are juniors.
The 2023 Staples High School graduate has just been selected as a Truman Scholar.
The College of William & Mary junior is one of 55 students nationally to receive the prestigious scholarship for aspiring public service leaders. Nearly 800 candidates were nominated.
Truman Scholars demonstrate “outstanding leadership potential, a commitment to a career in government or the nonprofit sector, and academic excellence.” Scholars receive funding for graduate studies, leadership training, career counseling, and internship and fellowship opportunities in the federal government.
Adelia Purcell
================================================
Bloodroot is gone.
But the beloved vegan/feminist Black Rock restaurant — co-founded 49 years ago by Westporter Selma Miriam, which closed in December — can live on.
In your home.
Some great items remain, in their online auction. Among them: tables, china, glassware, framed menus, feminist books and signed cookbooks and sculpture.
The entire library — of feminist and political hard and softcover books — is being sold as one lot, too.
“Bernstein’s Wall” — Westport filmmaker Doug Tirola and producer Susan Bedusa’s documentary about Leonard Bernstein, using TV interviews, news footage, home movies, audio clips and personal letters, to explore the legendary artist’s views on freedom, politics, creativity and more — had its US theatrical premiere yesterday, at New York’s Film Forum.
Two memorial services are set for Janet Filling. The longtime Westport American Red Cross director, who also held important Red Cross posts at the state and national levels, died in February at 91.
A memorial mass will be held on June 1 (10 a.m., Fairfield University’s Egan Chapel). There will be informal reception afterward.
A celebration of life is slated for June 14 (2 p.m., Westport Library). The public is invited to both. Focusing on Janet’s deep roots and relationships in Westport, it is a time to share memories, stories and photos. Anyone wishing to speak, send a photo, or offer words though unable to attend, should email Janet’s son Greg: gfilling@gmail.com.
Janet Filling
=================================================
David Ohman is a native Californian. But he lived in Westport from 1992-98. He loved those years, and still considers it his “adopted home town.”
Recently, Frames interviewed him. He discussed portraiture, photojournalism, working with light on location, trusting spontaneity, and staying open to unexpected moments that seem to appear only for those who are truly paying attention.
After decades of making pictures, meeting people, telling stories, and navigating the transition from film to digital, Ohman still speaks about the camera with curiosity, gratitude and excitement.
Click here or below, for a fascinating and educational half hour.
PS: If you or a family member had portraits taken by Ohman in the 1990s, “06880” may have beautiful prints of your session. Email 06880blog@gmail.com with the name of the subject. We’ll check through the files that he very generously sent!
And finally … on this date in 1915, the Battle of Gallipoli began. One of the longest and bloodiest campaigns of World War I, it is a defining moment in Turkey’s history. It is also considered the beginning of Australian and New Zealand national consciousness. Today is Anzac Day, a national commemoration in both countries.
(Sure, it’s Saturday. But neither the Roundup nor “06880” takes weekends off. If you appreciate our 24/7/365 coverage of all things Westport, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Minuteman Yacht Club celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. It may be one of Westport’s best kept secrets.
Members don’t need a fancy boat to join.
In fact, they don’t need any boat at all.
Everyone is welcome.
The Minuteman Yacht Club is located at the Ned Dimes Marina. But you don’t need a boat to join.
The Minuteman Yacht Club is defined “not by boats, but by people,” says board member Linda Mezzullo.
“We are a vibrant, welcoming community of individuals who enjoy social gatherings, and the coastal lifestyle that makes Westport summers so special.”
The club was formed in 1966. Cedar Point Yacht Club — headquartered at the Compo Beach marina — relocated to Bluff Point, at the east end of Saugatuck Shores.
The vacant clubhouse at Compo Basin became home to a new club: Minuteman.
View from the marina.
The club’s name reflects Westport’s Revolutionary War heritage. In April 1777, British troops landed at Compo Beach. They marched to Danbury, and burned an arsenal. On the way back, colonial troops — “minute men,” militia members trained to respond on a minute’s notice — battled them on Compo Hill.
The Minute Man is an enduring symbol of Westport’s history and spirit. “Those values continue to shape the club today,” Mezzullo says.
The Minuteman Yacht Club is still at Compo, just a few yards from the cemetery on Compo Beach Road where the Minute Men killed by the British are buried.
The clubhouse — now named for former Board of Finance chair Ned Dimes, and owned by the town of Westport — serves as the hub for gatherings today. A beach sticker is not required to attend events.
(The clubhouse can also be rented by outside groups, for other events.)
Today, the Minuteman Yacht Club includes residents and non-residents. What began as a boating club has evolved into a social, inclusive community.
The calendar of seasonal events ranges from cocktail parties and clambakes to casual sunset gatherings. The club also hosts a Commissioning Day season kickoff, and a reception after the annual King’s Cup Race. Local businesses often sponsor events.
Lobster dinner, at the Minuteman Yacht Club.
As a member of the Yachting Club of America, Minuteman offers reciprocal privileges at more than 700 yacht clubs nationwide.
Minuteman members are primarily adults — singles and couples — though families are welcome. Children often play together during events. The age range spans generations, creating a diverse and inclusive atmosphere not found in many organizations.
“What makes the Minuteman Yacht Club unique is that it is truly a community, rather than a traditional, exclusive yacht club,” Mazzullo emphasizes.
“Unlike many yacht clubs, you don’t need to spend a fortune to join. You just need an interest in fellowship, friendship, and enjoying Westport’s coastline.”
Jen Tooker’s 16 years of service to Westport — as 1st selectwoman, 2nd selectwoman, and a member of the Boards of Finance and Education, and Conservation Commission — were celebrated last night, at Romanacci.
Organized by former 2nd selectwoman Andrea Moore, it brought together people from every chapter of Tooker’s public life.
In the room were former Westport Select Board members Jim Marpe, Avi Kaner and Tammy Pincavage, plus many other elected town officials and longtime friends who worked with her, and admired her dedication.
Tooker was surprised when she walked in, and touched by the outpouring of appreciation. Kaner notes, “there were heartfelt stories, laughter, and genuine gratitude for her steady leadership, warmth and unwavering commitment to Westport and its residents.”
Jen Tookekr (2nd row, 2nd from right, with former 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore and 1st Selectman Jim Marpe), at Romanacci.
================================================
The Westport community has come through — big time.
Yesterday, Deputy Fire Chief Matt Cohen and Lieutenant Rob Lenois — president of the Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation — joined volunteers with the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.
Thanks to the generosity of the Westport community, they donated 1,000 turkeys — and sides — to support a 3-day Great ThankGiving Project event.
Well done, Westport Fire Department — and Westport neighbors!
From left: Tatyana Rozetta, Bridgeport Rescue Mission volunteer manager; Westport Deputy Chief Matt Cohen; Laurie Molner, BRM director of development; Lieutenant Rob Lenois, Westport Firefighter Charitable Foundation president.
=================================================
But wait! There’s more! On Wednesday, “06880” posted a story on a partnership between A&S Westport Fine Foods and the Conlon Amendola law firm.
They were donating 50 full Thanksgiving dinners — fresh turkeys, hams and sides — to families at Capital Prep Harbor School in Bridgeport.
They hoped a few readers could provide funds for dessert (pies).
The phones did not stop ringing. Within 24 hours all 50 pies were sponsored, by residents and former Westporters across the country.
Dr. John Corino of Norwalk Dental Arts, and an anonymous loyal A&S customer, added generous donations, allowing the meals to be increased even more.
The meals were prepared by A&S. They were delivered yesterday, then unloaded and distributed by the school’s National Honor Society students.
The drive was so successful, A&S and Conlon Amendola are planning another for Christmas, also for Capital Prep Harbor School.
Come on, “06880” readers! Email chefalpiz@gmail.com to learn how you can help.
From left: Patricia Pizzirusso (A&S), Jacquelyn Conlon and Bonnie Amendola (Conlon Amendola), Chenelle James and Dr. Joan Miller (Capital Prep Harbor School), with a few of the 50 dinners.
=================================================
And now, turning to the next big holiday:
The town’s annual tree lighting is set for the Town Hall lawn on Monday, December 1 (5 p.m.).
The Staples High School Orphenians will sing. The Westport Museum for History & Culture provides hot chocolate.
And — as always — little kids will count down to the big reveal.
Let there be (holiday) light! Here’s a look back at 2024. (Photo/Dan Woog)
=================================================
Westport was one of hundreds of participants yesterday, in the first of 2 “Fall of Freedom” days.
The event — “an urgent call to the arts community to unite in defiance of authoritarian forces sweeping the nation” — involved galleries, museums, comedy clubs, theaters and concert venues across the country, with exhibitions, performances and pubic events.
Locally, the Westport Library hosted a showing of “The Librarians.” The award-winning 2025 documentary shows an unlikely group standing up as “first responders in the fight for democracy and our First Amendment rights.”
With just 2 weeks notice, a full house filled the Trefz Forum, for the screening and a discussion. Panelists included (below from left, in photo): Westport screen and stage writer and Columbia University professor Trey Ellis; director/producer Kim A. Snyder; producer Maria Cuomo Cole; Connecticut state librarian Deborah Schander, and author Oliver Radclyffe.
By now, you must have heard of Staples Players’ stupendous production of “Les Misérables.”
The whole town is talking about it.
With a Players record-setting 10-show run, there are 3 more opportunities: today (Saturday, November 22, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, November 23, 2:30 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.
We’ve hailed the 70-plus actors often. They deserve all their kudos, and more.
But let’s not overlook the spectacular 30-piece pit orchestra, or the dozens of students (and adults) who constructed the jaw-dropping set.
We can’t show the musicians. They’re off stage (though hopefully they’ll get a bow tonight or tomorrow).
Speaking of Staples accomplishments: 1991 graduate Lynsey Addario is one of the most acclaimed photojournalists in the world.
The Pulitzer Prize and MacArthur Fellow winner has covered famines, civil wars, maternal mortality and more for National Geographic (among many others).
As part of the “Ask a Nat Geo Expert Anything” series, Addario speaks answered questions about the perils of her work, the personal price she pays, and how to get into photography.
Staples High School Class of 2008 graduate Leo Stagg is listed as “Head Automation” for the production.
We’re not not sure what that means. But it comes right after “Head Carpenter,” and just before “Head and Deck Electrician.” So Leo — who learned his tech chops with Staples Players — is one of the many unheralded crew members, without whom the curtain could not rise. (Hat tip: Lisa Marriott)
===============================================
Bob Weingarten spotted — and sends along — today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.
He writes: “I just saw these trees changing from summer into winter, at Hillandale Road and Morningside Drive South. Amazing how uniform the change is.”
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.
