Tag Archives: osprey

Roundup: Osprey, Cybersecurity, Admin …

Posted on April 3, 2026 | 1 comment

It’s official: Carolyn Doan — Westport’s unofficial osprey spotter — says that the Fresh Market osprey is back.

The actual first raptor of the spring was spotted earlier, by Gray’s Creek. An earlier report of the osprey at the tall perch next to Terrain turned out to be a hawk.

Their mates will no doubt join them soon. We’ll see them building nests, fishing for food, and — hopefully — tending their young.

Carolyn Doan usually has a high-powered lens. This was taken with her iPhone. (Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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“Your State, Your Business” — the program that brings high-ranking officials to the Westport Library to share their work with business owners and residents — continued Thursday.

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong — the third speaker, in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce series — opened with “Law School 101,” which set the stage for the civil legal and constitutional law discussions that followed.

Key topics included the role of the AG here, and differences with other states; high profile issues like personal data and privacy, and cases Tong has filed on behalf of the state and its citizens.

The “Your State, Your Business” series — sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — wraps up April 13 (11 a.m.). Click here for more information, and to register.

Attorney General William Tong, at the Westport Library. 

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Congratulations to Ignacy Nieweglowski, Sahil Vora, Rohan Sareen, Ezra Schwartz and Kevin Cano!

On Sunday, the Staples High School students captured first place in the Lockheed Martin CyberQuest Competition.

And they snagged gold for the second year in a row.

In the annual capture-the-flag competition, students take on a wide range of challenges designed by professional cybersecurity engineers. They include multi-step intrusion scenarios, steganography, reverse engineering, operating system exploitation, packet analysis, web vulnerabilities and social engineering.

The event was held at Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky headquarters in Stratford. Facing teams from across the region, the Stapleites worked collaboratively through 3 hours of intense problem-solving.

Following last year’s win, the students grew Staples’ cybersecurity program, and formed a larger team.

In addition to this year’s first-place finish, the B and C teams also placed in the top 5. The B team included Anit Arvind, Tucker Eklund, Srihan Popuri, Maadhav Subramaniam and Jonah Frey, while the C team was Joey Carpenter, Cora Barrett and Nora Ismael-Bakkali.

Up next: the national semifinals. Go Wreckers!

From left: Ignacy Nieweglowski, Sahil Vora, Rohan Sareen, Ezra Schwartz, Kevin Cano.

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Speaking of Staples: Congratulations to the 24 band, orchestra and choir programs who participated in the recent Connecticut Music Educators Association All-State Festival at the Hartford Convention Center.

The 3 days included rehearsals led by guest conductors, culminating in a final performance.

Staples All-State Festival musicians included

Band: Justin Jendrock, Gargi Karve, Dylan Taylor, Christian Green (horn in orchestra)

Choir: Veronica Albee, Josie Caricato, James Donoghue, Beckwith Fipp, Catherine Herbert, Abigail Kim, Josephine Lewertoff, Jasmita Mani Lorenzato, Lyla McEntee, Sophia Macris, Christian Michaels, Denver Razza, Helen Root, Ari Sklar, Samantha Skopp

Orchestra: Kirthana Gowthaman, Isabel Jo, Isabella Mariani, Ayush Rudra, Chloe Wong

Staples’ All-State Festival musicians (missing James Donoghue and Josephine Lewertoff).

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“06880” is Westport’s full-service blog, and the Roundup is where you can find nearly every service: upcoming events, achievements, obituaries.

The other day, we helped a Westport firm find a summer intern.

The New England Consulting Group received inquiries from several outstanding applicants. They extended an offer to a Staples graduate.

Now they’ve got another opening. This is for a part-time, experienced administrative assistant. For details, contact Applicants can contact Susan Owen, CFO: seo@necg.net (put “part-time admin at NECG” in the subject line), or call 203-297-9389.

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The other day, Scott Smith enjoyed an annual visit from a pileated woodpecker.

“It likes to dine off the rotting logs I use to frame my backyard compost heap,” Scott says.

“It’s a beautiful bird — and big!”

It’s also today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

(Photo/Scott Smith)

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And finally … on this date in 1865, Union forces captured Richmond, Virginia, the capital of the Confederate States of America.

(You can’t raise a Kane back up when he’s in defeat. But you can click here, to support “06880” with a tax-deductible contribution. Bells will ring, and we will thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Local business, Staples HS, technology, Teenagers

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Roundup: Pizza Lyfe, 92 Beachside Avenue, Tony Hwang …

Posted on April 1, 2026 | 1 comment

First, Pizza Lyfe established itself as one of Westport’s favorite (among many) pizzerias.

Then they expanded across Long Lots Road, opening Lyfe Café for breakfast, lunch and coffee.

Now comes a third Lyfe.

They’re taking over the Greenology/Jack’s Coffee space next door — the latest in a series of coffee shops there. Soon, it will open as Sweet Lyfe.

As first reported by WestportMoms, the new spot will feature high-protein Greek frozen yogurt, soft serve ice cream, small-batch gelato, smoothies, açaí bowls, imported candy and more.

Plus, “a chocolate and pistachio fountain.”

As Frank Sinatra sort of sang, “That’s Lyfe!”

Sweet Lyfe will move in soon next to (left side, not shown) Pizza Lyfe.

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The Historic District Committee meets April 9 (7 p.m., Zoom).

On the agenda: a demolition permit for 92 Beachside Avenue.

Because the home is over 50 years — in fact, the 7,700-square foot Tudor with 8 bedrooms and 8 1/2 bathrooms, once owned by Lucie Bedford (of Westport’s leading philanthropic family) and her husband, Briggs Cunningham (a race car driver and America’s Cup winner), set on 3.55 acres with 200 feet of Long Island Sound waterfront, is exactly 100 years old — the HDC can delay demolition for 180 days.

It cannot, however, prevent it.

The front of 92 Beachside Avenue …

… and a view from the Sound.

The Historic District Commission will also discuss demolition permits for:

  • 2 Izzo Lane
  • 48 Burr Farms Road
  • 41 Sniffen Road
  • 51 Whitney Street (detached garage only)
  • 20 Bermuda Road
  • 4 Woods Grove Road
  • 103 Sturges Highway
  • 4 Ridge Drive.

On the agenda too: rescinding adoption of the motion to oppose issuance of a demotion permit for 11 Dogwood Lane.

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Tony Hwang — the state senator from Fairfield who, before redistricting, represented parts of Westport and Weston — will not run for a 7th term.

The Republican announced his decision Monday. Including earlier service in the House of Representatives, he said that after nearly 18 years it is time to “ begin the next chapter of my life.”

Hwang — who was born in Taiwan, graduated from Cornell University and became the first Asian American in the Connecticut Senate — will return to the real estate profession.

He also hopes to work with nonprofits and academic institutions to encourage civic engagement.

Hwang said, “My goal is to help future generations understand that community must always come before political labels — and that effective governance requires collaboration, empathy, courage and respect.”

State Senator Tony Hwang (right), with Westport RTM moderator Jeff Wieser. (Photo/Jimmy Izzo)

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Has an osprey returned to Westport?

The verdict is out on the  Fresh Market nest. (It may be a hawk.)

But Ed Simek sends along this shot from Gray’s Creek, next to the Longshore exit road.

(Photo/Ed Simek) 

It sure looks like an osprey to him — and us.

But we’ll leave it to our experts: “06880” readers.

Is it an osprey? A different raptor? Click “Comments” below.

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Speaking of animals: As the temperature reached the mid-70s yesterday, dogs romped on Compo Beach.

They won’t be back for 6 months.

March 31 is the final day dogs are allowed on town beaches, until October 1.

The ones who were there made the most of the almost-summer day.

And boy, there were a lot of them.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Speaking of nature: Earthplace hosts several intriguing adult events soon.

  • Craft & Sip: Create Botanical Stationery (April 9, 6 p.m.; $35 members, $45 non-members)
  • Mindfulness: Forest Bathing (April 16, 10-11 a.m.; $25)
  • Mindfulness: Sound Bath (April 29, 6 to 7 p.m.; $45)
  • Toast to the Trees (family) (April 25, 4 p.m.)
  • Cocktails &  Clams (June 6, 5 to 7 p.m.).

And for the younger set: Kids Night Out (April 10, 6 to 9 p.m.; $50 members; $60 non-members).

Click here for details on all programs, and registration.

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Aaron and Brett Fortunoff of Staples High School’s Cereal 4 All Club offer “a great big thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s drive a success.” The Staples Service League of Boys (SLOBs) was a huge help.

They collected 1,600 boxes of cereal, and raised over $3,000. They’ve already begun distributing cereal to local food pantries.

Contributions are still welcome. Venmo @lauriefortunoff (she will purchase cereal), or make a tax-deductible donation at cereal4all.org.

Aaron and Brett Fortunoff, with donated cereal (and friend).

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He was right outside her kitchen window.

But Ann Cole says she would not have seen this owl, had he not rotated his head.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows the beauty of nature’s camouflage.

It’s everywhere. We just have to look.

Very, very carefully.

(Photo/Ann Cole)

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And finally … to all those who forgot that today was April 1, when they clicked on our lead story this morning:

(You never know what you’ll find on “06880.” If you enjoy our wide variety of stories, photos, features and other stuff, please click here to support our work. Even if  — ESPECIALLY if — we got you today!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Longshore, Politics, Real estate

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Roundup: Lamont & Chamber, Osprey & Hawk, Laura & Jenna …

Posted on March 30, 2026 | 4 comments

The 4th in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s “Your State, Your Business” series will feature the biggest name of all.

Governor Ned Lamont speaks at the Westport Library on April 13 (11 a.m.).

The series began earlier this month, with Comptroller Sean Scanlon and Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas. It continues this Thursday (April 2, 11 a.m.), with Attorney General William Tong.

Governor Lamont’s session will focus on Connecticut’s fiscal stability and economic outlook, highlighting efforts to maintain affordability through initiatives like tax rebates and energy cost relief. Following his talk, Governor Lamont will join in a conversation with Chamber executive director Matthew Mandell, followed by an audience Q&A.

The event is free, but pre-registration is required here.

Governor Ned Lamont

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Last week’s osprey sighting may have been a false alarm.

Carolyn Doan — who has tracked the raptors’ Westport sojourns for years — writes: “The photo that was sent to you could have been a hawk. As far as I know, the osprey haven’t returned yet.

“I hope I’m wrong. It’s possible I keep missing them, but I have engaged the help and eyes of some friends as well. Nobody has seen them yet.

“I talked with the manager at Fresh Market. They are on the lookout also

“The nest itself hasn’t changed. No new sticks or dangling sticks moved. No visible spiffing up has occurred.

“If they haven’t returned, then they are about a week late. Other nests in town have late arrivals also.

I’ll let you know if anything changes or I hear differently.”

Osprey or hawk? Last week, at Fresh Market. (Photo/Dana Kuyper)

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This past weekend, the Westport Library turned into a concert venue.

Next month (Saturday, April 25, 7 p.m.), it becomes a fashion runway.

In just 6 years, the Westport Downtown Association’s Fashionably Westport show has become one of the hottest spring tickets.

For good reason. In addition to the latest styles from over 20 local fashion and accessories retailers and salons — all modeled by local residents — plus a silent auction, food, music, and high-energy MC Dave Briggs, it’s a fundraiser for a wonderful organization: Homes with Hope. They run the town’s men’s and women’s shelter and food pantry (among many other good works).

Click here for tickets, and more information. 

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Laura Blair has participated in 21 STAR Walk & Roll events. During that time, she has raised over $100,000 for the non-profit that serves individuals of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

This year will be special for Laura. For over 30 years she took care of Jenna Herbst, a fellow Westporter and STAR client.

Jenna died earlier this month. Laura is dedicating this year’s Walk & Stroll to her, and other friends Laura has met at STAR who, like Jenna, rely on the organization for help.

Money raised funds birth-to-8 early intervention therapies, customized job training, placement for transitioning high school students and adults, and scholarships for self-enrichment programs for over 600 people in Fairfield County.

Many people know Laura, through her work with Jenna and as a Staples High School superfan. Click here to help Laura reach her $20,000 goal.

Laura Blair and Jenna Herbst. 

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Westporter Sam Hendel — a music industry leader at Chord Music rights platform, and Dundee Partners (a private equity and venture capital firm, focusing on music, media, and technology) — helped draw a large crowd yesterday morning, to “Coffee with the C-Suite: Creators, Technologists, and Music’s AI Frontier.”

The event — the first on the final day of the Westport Library’s VersoFest — examined how artificial intelligence is reshaping how music is created, distributed, licensed and monetized.

Music industry veteran Dick Wingate — another Westporter — moderated the fascinating, forward-looking discussion.

Sam Hendel (far right), on the AI-and-music panel. Other participants (from left): Daniel Rowland, Danny Newcomb, Paul Sinclair. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

The 4-day event closed with an interview with Peter Shapiro — who has owned the Capitol Theatre and Brooklyn Bowl, and produced numerous music festivals — followed by a screening of the Grateful Dead movie “Dead Ahead,” filmed in 1980 at Radio City Music Hall.

The Dead live! (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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Congratulations to Caleb Smith!

The 2024 Staples graduate — who quarterbacked the Wreckers to the state championship and was named Connecticut Football Player of the Year; earned All-America honors in lacrosse; captained the basketball team and was honored as a statewide Scholar-Athlete — was inducted into the Fairfield County Gridiron Hall of Fame last week.

He was the youngest honoree, among this year’s 13 players and coaches.

In his career, culminating in the state crown (and #1 ranking in Connecticut), Caleb passed for 5,138 yards and 49 touchdowns. He rushed for 2,307 yards and 43 TDs, and holds 7 school passing records.

After playing quarterback at the University of Connecticut his freshman year, Caleb transferred to Boston University this year. He is playing lacrosse, and studying finance.

Caleb Smith, with his family and state championship plaque.

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Who doesn’t like chocolate? And who doesn’t like wine?

Those indulgences are doubly enjoyable together. Which is exactly why Chocolatieree and The Grapevine are collaborating on a “Pairing Table.” It’s where handcrafted ganache bonbons meet thoughtfully curated wines.

There are 2 dates: April 21 and 23 (at Chocalatieree; $115). Three rounds “contrast Old and New World styles,”; each pairing includes a wine category matched with a chocolate, unlocking a flavor that “might bloom, soften, brighten, or surprise you entirely.”

It’s “part tasting, part discovery, part lively conversation, and completely” delicious. Participants leave with a box, to “savor and reminisce later.” Click here to register, and for more information.

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Sure, you can always find great artwork at Westport River Gallery.

But now you can also see a pair of the replica ruby slippers — created to exact detail of those worn by Judy Garland as Dorothy, in the 1939 “Wizard of Oz” film — at the Riverside Avenue space.

Connecticut-based artist Kyle LaRue constructed each slipper using a vintage size 5 shoe (the actress’ size) from the 1930s. Each features sequins, bugle beads and rhinestone.

The slippers at the gallery are the most authentic pair available. More durable, wearable versions in any size can be made on commission.

Artist Kyle LaRue (left) with Westport River Gallery owner Ken Warren, and Dorothy’s slippers. (Photo/Koleen Kaffan)

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Just in time for hydrangea season, the Greens Farms Garden Club is sponsoring an expert speaker.

Horticulturist/photographer/New York Botanical Garden instructor Lorraine Ballato — author of “Success With Hydrangeas,” and a blogger with a site dedicated to the plant — will speak on April 7 (11 a.m., Southport Congregational Church). RSVP: cafedame@aol.com.

Who doesn’t love hydrangeas?

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Lucas Flesch is a junior at Staples — and a talented and passionate artist.

He was was accepted into Pratt Institute’s prestigious Summer Pre-College Intensive program.

His family does not qualify for the school’s financial aid. They’ve set up a GoFundMe page to help.

It says: “The pre-program would be an incredible next step for Lucas. It would allow him to experience a structured, college-level environment and be surrounded by other students who are just as passionate about art. This experience could be transformative, helping him build confidence and skills for his future. Any support, in any amount, truly helps, and we really appreciate it.”

Click here for Lucas’ GoFundMe page. And click here to see some of his work.

“Dead/Lucid Self Portrait” — graphite on paper, 2024. Lucas writes: “In this piece, I was thinking about religion. And how we justify with religion and overcome our greatest fear. The unknown. In old literature (Romeo and Juliet, and Catullus 5) the writers play this metaphor of this very short life we live and how we should spend it with loving. Everyone does things in preface to death, either it being memorable for things done in your life or loved by others. This self- portrait talks about how death is a part of everyone living or not. Death might be the one thing that controls your life.”

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We get a lot of sunset photos, here at “06880” headquarters.

We can’t run 95% of them.

But this one — over Sherwood Mill Pond — caught our eye, for its color and composition. So it made the cut, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured image.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … in honor of Dorothy’s slippers, now being paid homage to at Westport River Gallery (story above):

(You don’t need a brain, a heart or courage to support “06880.” All you have to do is click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution. We’ll be over the rainbow with joy. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Osprey Returns, Mattress Recycling, Staples High Honors …

Posted on March 19, 2025 | 4 comments

Right on schedule — actually, a few days early — a Fresh Market osprey is back.

The nest next to Terrain is occupied by at least one of the magnificent raptors. The second member of the pair usually arrives after the first.

As we do every year, Westport waits anxiously for the little ones. (Hat tip: Dana Kuyper

Fresh Market osprey. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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Earlier this month, the Democratic Town Committee’s nominating committee interviewed 4 “excellent” candidates for this November’s first selectperson election. It’s an open seat, now that incumbent Jen Tooker is running for governor.

The nominating committee settled on 2 “very qualified” candidates to present to the full DTC. Board of Education member Kevin Christie was one. The other asked not to have their name put forward.

However, despite a previous announcement, the full DTC will not vote on a candidate next month. Instead, in July they’ll introduce Christie’s name. At that point, nominations can be made from the floor.

That information was offered to DTC members — and other attendees — at last night’s monthly Zoom meeting, by chair Michelle Mechanic.

Next month, the Democrats also begin interviewing candidates for all open board and commission seats.

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Americans discard 20 million mattresses and box springs annually. That’s 55,000 that land in incinerators and landfills each day.

 

But up to 90% of old mattresses can be recycled into carpet pads, exercise equipment cushions, bike seats, insulation, air filters and steel materials.

 

Sustainable Westport can help. They’ll host a free mattress/ box spring recycling event on Saturday, April 26 (8:30 to 11:30 a.m., Earthplace).

 

Dry and unsoiled mattresses and box springs are welcome. Please do not bring those that are damaged, wet, or contaminated (bed bugs, etc.).

 

If you can’t bring your mattress or box spring, Westport Boy Scout Troop 36 will provide a pickup service for a small donation. Click here to sign up.

 

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Twenty Staples High School seniors will graduate in June with high honors.

They represent the top 4% of the graduating class. Congratulations to Aidan Stubbs, William Borowsky, Andrew Rebello. Annam Anjolaoluwa Adachukwu Olasewere, Sam Rossoni, Jackson Tracey, Cole Siegner, Perrin Root, Mack Haymond, William Boberski, Carolina Proctor, Alexis Krenzer, Mia Bomback, Matthew Guadarrama, Abe Lobsenz, Alessandra Gavriloiu, Megan Sargent, Kendra Cheng, Shreyas Gorre and Suhani Aggarwal.

Principal Stafford Thomas notes, “these students were involved in a number of extracurricular activities and various aspects of school life which took a great deal of time, focus and concentration outside of the classroom. We were lucky to have had them for 4 years, and will no doubt hear about their next great achievements in the years to come.”

Staples High School Class of 2025 high honors students, flanked by assistant principal Pat Micinilio (far left) and principal Stafford Thomas (far right).

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VersoFest is near. Time to take the Westport Library decibel level up another few notches.

Actually, more than that. On Saturday, April 5, the goal is to become the loudest library ever.

Starting at 10 a.m., visionary artist 5iveFingaz hosts a 90-minute celebration. It includes a rotating cast of DJs, “an electrifying fusion of music, art, and community, and the Library version of a primal scream.” (Plus doughnuts and beverages.)

“Our goal is to make this a true celebration and community experience, showcasing the transformative power of community and creativity,” says Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer.

“We want everyone to feel welcome, from our youngest patrons to our longtime music supporters. The emphasis here is on fun, and setting the right tone to what promises to be an incredible weekend of events at VersoFest 2025.”

This kickoff coincides with 5iveFingaz’s Interactive Community Participation Mural. (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) Residents  are invited to create a one-of-a-kind work of art from 10 am to 2 pm.

It will be followed by an all-star panel discussion on the 50th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” (1 p.m.), and 2 Verso Visionary conversations: 4 p.m. between The Roots founder and lead emcee Black Thought and June Archer, followed by hardcore punk legend Henry Rollins in conversation with Nabil Ayers at 7.

The festival closes Sunday, April 6, with a VersoFest live podcast discussion between longtime David Letterman music director Paul Shaffer and SNL Beehive Queen Christine Ohlman.

Click here for more VersoFest details, including a full schedule.

5iveFingaz

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It takes a week to transform the Westport Country Playhouse stage, from one show to the next.

But you can watch it happen in just 3 minutes, on video.

Immediately after “Native Gardens” closed, a crew began building the “Theatre People” set.

The comedy opens March 25. Will they get it done in time?

Watch below!

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Club203 celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in style last night.

The Westport Library was filled with smoke machines — and decked out in green — at a special karaoke night.

Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities enjoyed soda breads and honey buns donated by Cob’s Bread, green bagels from Village Bagels, and cookies Baked by Belle.

As always, there was plenty of volunteer support, and MoCA CT ran an art table.

Club203 rocks the Westport Library.

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Also yesterday: a presentation to the Westport Rotary Club by Catalyst CT CEO and president Marc Donald.

The nonprofit began by combating teen substance abuse. It has since branched out into reducing gun violence, suicide prevention, and practicing restorative justice.

The organization trains police and security guards in Bridgeport and Fairfield public schools to help defuse potentially violent situations. They also partner with Park City Presents, helping familiarize Bridgeport teenagers with music production technology.

Marc Donald, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)

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Fleet Feet’s United Track Club program, for boys and girls in grades 2-8, begins April 27. All athletic levels are welcome.

The program runs Sundays (11 a.m. to noon, Staples High School track) through June 8.

It includes sprints, hurdles, long jump and endurance running. The focus is on coordination and confidence.

The cost is $160. Click here for details.

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The Westport/Weston Interfaith Clergy Association invites all teenage girls and boys to a packing party this Sunday (March 23, 5:30 to 7 p.m., United Methodist Church) for Dignity Grows.

The goal is to pack 200 bags of menstrual hygiene products, for distribution to local food pantries, shelters and organizations. 

This will be a fun time, a great cause — and there’s pizza and snacks. RSVP your their faith community youth leader, or Heather Sinclair: hsinclair@westportumc.org.

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Yesterday’s “Roundup” item about TAP Strength’s first “lifespand and health span” wellness event — a conversation between TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Jennifer Boyd — did not include the date and time. It’s March 26, 6 p.m.

A team from Rhone will offer performance-driven gear. Register by email: info@tapstrength.com.

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Just 3 days remain before Westport Pride’s annual drag show.

This year’s special guest is Patty Bourée. The 18+ event — with cocktails, songs and comedy — is Saturday (March 22, 7 p.m.) at The Knowlton, Bridgeport’s premier event space.

“Come dressed to spring eternal,” organizers say. And why not? It’s the second day of spring!

Click here for tickets, and more information.

 

 

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Most Sherwood Mill Pond sunsets are dramatic.

Yesterday’s was particularly vivid.

Matt Murray captured the scene, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finallly … Jesse Colin Young, co-founder of the Youngbloods and the lead singer on “Get Together,” a still-beloved paean to love and brotherhood, died Sunday in South Carolina. He was 83. Click here for a full obituary.

(Come on people, smile on your brother, everybody get together and support “06880” right now. Please click here. It’s groovy — and we thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Library, Local politics, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Osprey Rescue, Addario Photos, “Showman” Show …

Posted on August 12, 2024 | 3 comments

Westport loves its ospreys.

One osprey loves Westport back.

Julie Loparo of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates posted a video on social media of yesterday’s team rescue.

An osprey became snared in a braided cotton line, on top of a piling off Saugatuck Shores.

A Fire Department crew from Engine Company 4 arrived, with a ladder. Lieutenant Joe Arnson held it, as Animal Control Officer Peter Reid climbed up to cut the line off the raptor’s talons.

Arnson then released the handsome bird, who flew off, once again free.

After the rescue, the line was removed from the piling.

Osprey rescue underway. (Screenshot courtesy of Julie Loparo)

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The September issue of The Atlantic features a compelling story.

“Seventy Miles in Hell” recounts the harrowing 70-mile journey that nearly a million people have made in the past several years through the Darién Gap, from Colombia into Panama.

Men women and children come from Haiti, Ethiopia, India, Congo, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and Venezuela, heading north across the only strip of land that connects South America to Central America, hoping they live long enough to reach the US.

Writer Caitlin Dickerson made the trek herself, accompanied by photographer Lynsey Addario.

Those photos — from the 1991 Staples High School graduate who has won both Pulitzer Prizes and a MacArthur “genius” grant — add immeasurably to Dickerson’s powerful prose.

Click here for the story. (Hat tip: Rosalie Wolf)

Migrants wait to board canoes, the next step in their journey. (Photo/Lynsey Addario, for The Atlantic)

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“The Greatest Showman” is being adapted for the stage.

The latest news from the songwriting team of Pasek & Paul — which includes Justin Paul, a 2003 Staples High School graduate — was highlighted at the D:23 fan festival in Anaheim.

The event included this video:

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Since COVID, many Westporters have discovered Sherwood Island.

(For those who haven’t: Connecticut’s first state park sits smack in the middle of our shoreline. It’s 238 acres of beaches, wetlands, woods, walking paths, a Nature Center — even a model airplane runway.)

Many Westporters also help keep the park shipshape, as volunteers with Friends of Sherwood Island.

They raise money in part through a great annual fundraiser. This year’s Shorefest is September 6 (6 to 9 p.m., Sherwood Island pavilion). It features dinner and a silent auction.

Dinner options include lobster, tenderloin, salmon or vegetarian, plus steamers, corn, salad and dessert ($100 before September 1; $120 after). A children’s menu ($15) includes hot dog or hamburger, corn, salad and dessert.

Click here for tickets, or send a check to Friends of Sherwood Island State Park, PO Box 544, Westport, CT 06881.

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Yesterday’s “Question Box” included this from David Squires: Where is the highest elevation in Westport?

I had always heard it’s Tower Ridge, next to the Aspetuck Health District and Westport Astronomical Society observatory on Bayberry Lane.

Nope.

Alert “06880” reader Chris Grimm found a website called “Peakbagger.” Its page of Connecticut Town High Points cites Westport’s “West Catamount Hill.”

For the record, it’s 284 feet (87 meters) above sea level.

West Catamount Hill (Topographical map courtesy of Peakbagger)

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“Remi’s Run for Parker’s Cure” is a colorful community event, for a great cause.

The morning of fun, fitness and philanthropy is set for Sunday, August 25 (10 a.m. to noon, PJ Romano Field track).

The color run is part of Remi Rutstein’s bat mitzvah project. It’s dedicated to her cousin Parker, who is battling a rare genetic brain disorder known as HIST1H1E.

Participants — grouped by age — will run or walk around the track, while being splashed with colorful, non-toxic powders. By the end of the run, everyone is a living rainbow.

The fun also includes breakfast from Lyfe Café, a candy truck, sports and games, tattoos, a DJ, and plenty of surprises.

Remi says the event is a way for Westporters to come together and celebrate Parker, raise awareness, and contribute to the search for a cure.

The event is free, but donations are welcome.  Click here to register, and for more information and contributions.

PS: Volunteers are welcome (and needed!). To help, email megan@westportmoms.com.

Remi Rutstein (right) and Parker.

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Pigeons are well known for living all over New York City.

But they like the suburbs too.

At the Westport Library a few days before leaving for college (in New York state), Jay Babina snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

It looks almost majestic.

(Photo/Jay Babina)

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And finally … in honor of the definitive answer to Westport’s highest point (story above):

(“06880” kicks off a new week, with another Roundup chock full of events, news you can use, and random factoids. If you enjoy this daily feature, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Pic Of The Day #2306

Posted on August 11, 2023 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #2306

Osprey in Gray’s Creek, seen by kayak (Photo/Rachel Cohen)

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Roundup: Lyman Video, Julia Marino, Touch Football …

Posted on March 27, 2023 | 7 comments

Westport’s fundraising for our sister city of Lyman, Ukraine continues to pay dividends.

The latest video from Ukraine Aid International shows one of 7 apartment complexes that have been saved, thanks to generous donations from Westporters.

An older resident describes conditions there. They have electricity and water, for which he is grateful.

It’s easy for us here to focus on things that, in the grand scheme of life, are truly minor. Click below, for a reality check.

Aid for our friends in Ukraine is still needed. Click here; under “Designation,” select “Westport – Lyman sister city.” Thank you!

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The last time we checked in with Julia Marino, the Olympic snowboarding silver medalist was featured on a new Miggs Burroughs lightbox greeting arrivals at the Westport train station.

She just competed in her final events of the winter, last week in Austria and yesterday in Switzerland.

The Westport native won the FIS Crystal Globe for slopestyle, making her the top rider in this discipline for the entire season.

On Saturday she took gold at the World Cup in Corvatsch. Her winning video is below.

 

Julia also earned an FIS silver medal as best “Park and Pipe” rider, just 7 points behind the leader. The award includes snowboard athletes from 3 disciplines; slopestyle, big air and half-pipe.

Click here for a story on her Swiss run, and an interview with Julia.

Her mother Elaine was there this weekend, to cheer her on:

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Speaking of sports: A familiar scene returned to Compo Beach yesterday morning.

I have no idea how long this touch football game has been going on at Compo. But it’s been a long time.

The players may change. But this image is timeless.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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Following on the heels — or wings — of the Fresh Market osprey, another raptor has returned to Longshore.

Alert “06880” reader Clarence Hayes reports: “They don’t start sitting on the nests until the females arrive and eggs are laid. There should be at least another 5 soon, to fill out the 3 permanent nests around the golf course.”

Osprey at Longshore (Photo/Clarence Hayes)

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This is not the first wild turkey to be featured on “Westport … Naturally.”

But it sure may be the biggest.

Susan Garment spotted the bird on Partrick Road.

Say what you will: They were here first.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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And finally … in celebration of National Quirky Country Music Song Titles Day (you can’t make this stuff up):

(Yee haw! Another great start to the week. To make it even better, please click here to help support “06880.” Thank y’all.)

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Unsung Hero #247

Posted on July 20, 2022 | 10 comments

Last week at Longshore, Chris Davies — a 9-year veteran professional golf pro and instructor — took a short detour off the course. He helped not a golfer, but a raptor.

There are 3 osprey nest on the Longshore course: one by the 1st and 2nd hole; another near the ER Strait Marina; a third on the exit road, by the 12th green.

Chris — an avid fisherman — was asked to help save a young osprey. A fishing line was wrapped around its wings. It could not fly, or barely move.

With the help of Dave Boviei — longtime golf course starter — Chris used fishing line cutters to rescue the beautiful bird.

The rescued osprey

Then he returned to the junior camp, where head pro Jon Janik and PGA pro Mark Farrell were helping 18 young golfers learn the game.

Hopefully, the osprey Chris saved will return next spring. It will spend the winter down south.

Unlike Chris. In addition to golf, he’s a gifted hockey instructor at the Longshore rink.

Westporters — and ospreys — are lucky to have him here.

(To nominate an Unsung Hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. Hat tip: Mark Farrell)

(“06880” relies on reader support. Be a hero; please click here to help.)

Chris Davies

 

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Roundup: Hiawatha Lane, Abortion Ban, Salsa Fresca …

Posted on June 8, 2022 | 13 comments

Though Superior Court Judge Marshall Berger dismissed a suit by Hiawatha Lane residents against Summit Saugatuck — developer of the 157-unit apartment complex by I-95 Exit 17 — the neighbors vow to fight on.

Carolanne Curry writes: “A close analysis by (our) attorney of the findings in Judge Berger’s decision, would show the Judge’s decision to be weak enough, flawed enough, and sufficient enough to warrant an immediate and vigorous appeal. During a conversation on Friday our attorney relayed that the merits of an appeal were convincing and justifiable. (Read the decision dated May 31, 2022  here.)

“We have come too far to simply relinquish our sincere efforts and the many successes we have achieved, especially while there are viable pathways to further success that are still within our reach. Our chances of success today are like all the chances we’ve continuously embraced for nearly 20 years. We’ve gone ahead each time and achieved many wins. We still remain an affordable working class neighborhood. We still remain a community with history… and hope. We still remain committed to stopping something so very wrong.”

An appeal would take 12 to 18 months, Curry says. That would put a hold on construction.

The biggest challenge, she says, is funding. Her email included a goal of $50,000 to cover the current balance owed, and legal fees going forward. Click here for details, and more information.

One of the Hiawatha Lane homes on the demolition list.

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With 23 sponsors, it was already clear that a “sense of the meeting” resolution supporting a woman’s right to abortion would pass the 36-member Representative Town Meeting.

But — after impassioned debate — the non-partisan legislative body enacted the member without dissent from the 29 members still on the Zoom call.

The RTM has weighed in on national issues before. In 1969, they voted 17-15 to oppose the Vietnam War. After the Sandy Hook massacre, they resoundingly called for an end to gun violence.

District 4 representative Andrew Colabella told “06880” after last night’s vote:

“Tonight the RTM, men and women, stood together and in unison, eloquently and passionately to adopt a resolution asserting that Westport supports the constitutional rights and principles established in Roe v. Wade, and opposes the elimination of those rights by any subsequent Supreme Court decision.

“Putting aside individual beliefs and political affiliations, this nonpartisan body, like always, setting precedent by discussing and taking action voiced, loud and clear with great enthusiasm while holding back tears.

“The future is terrifying. We are fortunate and lucky  to live in such an educated and strongly passionate diverse and inclusive town that, like our state, goes above and beyond to protect women’s rights.

“Furthermore, the best health care is provided free of political interference in the patient-physician relationship. Personal decision-making by women and their doctors should not be replaced by political ideology. This was affirmed in our unanimous vote.

“And like the people that we are in this town, ready to give a helping hand, will take pride in helping those beyond our borders whatever decision is rendered.”

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No such thing as a free lunch?

Don’t tell that to the crowd at Salsa Fresca yesterday.

The Post Road healthy Mexican spot gave away free lunches — and dinners — all day long. It was “Customer Appreciation Day.”

Lines were long, but they moved fast. No one worried about swiping credit cards, or fumbling for cash. Customers definitely appreciated that.

Gracias, Salsa Fresca!

A small part of Salsa Fresca’s long line.

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When newly minted teacher Haleigh Donovan put out a plea for books for her underserved 4th grade classroom, “06880” readers came through.

Dozens of Westporters donated hundreds of books. Others sent gift cards, for the 2014 Staples High School and College of Charleston master’s graduate to purchase too.

Soon, she and her parents — Staples grads Dan and Nicole Donovan — will pack up a car, and head south. Haleigh will spend the summer setting up her classroom.

With each book, she’ll be reminded of the generosity of hometown friends and strangers.

Haleigh Donovan, with a small portion of Westporters’ large donations.

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Former 2nd Selectman and Board of Finance chair Avi Kaner — named last year one of the “Top 100 People Positively Influencing Jewish Life” — just returned from a B’nai B’rith trip — to the Vatican.

He and his wife Liz were part of a private audience with Pope Francis.

The pontiff said: “The promotion and deepening of Jewish-Christian dialogue has been something close to my heart since I was a young boy, because at school I had Jewish classmates; it is a dialogue made up of encounter and concrete gestures of fraternity.

“It is good that we should help one another, because in each one of us, in every religious tradition and in every human society, there is always a risk that we can hold grudges and foster disputes against others, and at times do so in the name of absolute and even sacred principles.”

The delegation responded: “Your Holiness, we hope that all people will stand together against antisemitism, against anti-Christian discrimination and against intolerance directed at Muslims. In recognition of our common home and common destiny, let us protect the environment, care for the most vulnerable and promote mutual understanding rather than mutual recrimination. Thank you, Your Holiness, and may God bless all people everywhere with shalom, with peace.”

Pope Francis shook Kaner’s hand, looked him in the eye and said, “Pray for Peace.”

Pope Francis and Avi Kaner.

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It’s been a while since we checked in with the Fresh Market ospreys.

Carolyn Doan reports: “There is at least one chick in the nest. There are probably more, but this was the most visible, sitting right up front with mom. Dad brought in a fish. All is well.”

(Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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It could take years — if ever — for the improvement project at the Main Street/ Weston Road/Easton Road intersection near Merritt Parkway Exit 42 (first reported yesterday on “06880”) to be completed.

Let’s hope there’s some routine maintenance done of the traffic island there before then.

If it looks like this today, just imagine a few years from now.

(Photo/Terry Brannigan)

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On the other hand … there are plenty of handsome entrances to private Westport roads.

But can any of them beat today’s “Westport … Naturally” beauty?

(Photo/Valerie Szeto)

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And finally … Jim Seals — half of the ’70s soft-rock duo Seals & Crofts — died Monday in Nashville. He was 79.

I knew (but never really cared for) the group’s hits like “Summer Breeze” and “Diamond Girl.”

But I did not know — until I read his obituary — that Jim Seals and Dash Crofts were part of the Champs, who had a 1958 hit with “Tequila,” another song that did nothing for me. (They joined after it was a hit.)

Nor did I know that Seals’ brother Dan was a member of England Dan & John Ford Coley (“I’d Really Love to See You Tonight”). You guessed it …

(“06880” runs entirely on donations. Please click here to contribute!)

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Roundup: Jersey Mike’s, Osprey, Kiwanis …

Posted on March 22, 2022 | 6 comments

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Jersey Mike’s — the “fast-casual sub sandwich” shop in Compo Acres Center — has closed permanently.

That’s what a sign on the door says. The location — which opened in September 2015 — is already gone from the website of the 2,171-store chain.

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Meanwhile — not far away — an osprey has returned to its Fresh Market perch.

Alert “06880” reader Wendy Crowther reported last evening: “He was primping the nest as I passed by just now. I drive by Fresh Market to and from work or doing errands nearly every day. I always look in that direction.

“This is my first sighting since he left for parts south last fall. I was in my car so I don’t have a photo.”

So this one from last year will have to do:

(Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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Like many Westporters, Stephan Taranko has followed the news from Ukraine closely.

He has a special interest: His family is from there.

Earlier this month, he ordered 50 flags, to hand out at the Stand With Ukraine rally on Jesup Green.

They did not arrive in time. When he finally got them, he did the next best thing: He put them on his mailbox, with a sign inviting people to take one.

Steve lives on a private road, off Sturges Highway. Yet all 50 were taken quickly.

Westporters around town are also decorating their homes and yards with Ukrainian flags. Several line Prospect Road, in a show of support for that courageous nation.

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The Kiwanis Club is one of Westport’s less publicized civic groups. But they’ve been around for decades, aiding everything from Safe Rides and local playgrounds to gear for the EMS bicycle unit.

Very quietly, they continue to enrich our town.

The other day, they donated $5,000 to Save the Children’s relief efforts in Ukraine. Now Kiwanis is gearing up for their grant program for high school seniors. Funding comes from their annual family-friendly Mini-Triathlon at Compo Beach.

The Kiwanis College Grant application is open to income-qualified Staples High School who have demonstrated academic excellence and service to the community. Click here for an application. The deadline is April 15.

The Triathlon is open to all ability levels. It includes a point-to-point swim at Compo Beach, followed by short bike and run courses in the Compo neighborhood.

The event is great for first-timers, and families wishing to race together. To register for the September 11 event or donate to the college grant program, click here.

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What do Rosa Parks, Helen Keller, Eleanor Roosevelt, Katharine Hepburn, Golda Meir, Jackie Kennedy, Peggy Guggenheim and Mother Teresa have in common?

All will be celebrated this Saturday by Westporter Suzanne Tanner, in her inspiring millinery musical “Voices of Herstory.”

The event (March 26, 3 p.m., St. Andrew’s Church, Kent) coincides with Women’s History Month. And it’s for a great cause: Proceeds benefit Ukrainian refugees, honoring the memory of Tanner’s daughter Tess.

PS: Wear a hat!

Suzanne Tanner

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We all know how “Romeo and Juliet” ends, right? (Spoiler alert if you don’t: badly.)

On April 8 and 9 (7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m., respectively; Sacred Heart Community Theatre, Fairfield) you’ve got a chance to change Shakespeare’s 425-year-old classic. Internationally renowned pianist — and Westport neighbor —  Frederic Chiu is a Prokofiev expert. Among his most noted works: the piano suite from the composer’s “Romeo and Juliet” ballet.

Almost 30 years ago, Chiu discovered the original score. Written entirely for the piano, it contained a revised ending. The lovers do not die.

Twenty-five years later, he commissioned choreographer Sandra Shih Parks to collaborate on “Romeo & Juliet: The Choice.” The audience votes on which ending — Prokofiev’s original happy one, or the traditional dismal version — will be performed.

It debuted at Drexel University in 2018, with Chiu playing the entire ballet on piano, while dancers performed — and the enthralled audience waited for the outcome.

Now, WSHU brings it to Fairfield. Click here for tickets and more information.

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Staples High School’s Zero Waste Committee is wasting zero time making an impact.

In addition to next month’s pop-up thrift shop, countering the wasteful “fast fashion” shopping trend, co-chairs Kayla Iannetta and Jenn Cirino are partnering with Sustainable Westport and ZenWTR for a Compo Beach cleanup on April 30.

This is the first time all the Zero Waste Committees from different Westport schools join together for one effort.

ZenWTR is the first beverage in the world to be certified plastic negative (meaning they remove more plastic from the environment than they produce, by investing in sustainable programs). ZenWTR is sold in the Staples High School cafeteria.

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A new store — Bobbles & Lace — has opened their first Connecticut location in Bedford Square.

Lindsay Rose Rando launched the store 14 years ago in Marblehead, Massachusetts. B&L offers “modern fashion forward designs at affordable prices.” There are other outlets in Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Maine.

Rando says she “loves the sense of community” in Westport, and calls her Church Lane location “bright and beautiful.”

Bobbles & Lace is opoen Monday through Saturday (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.), Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Bobbles & Lace, Bedford Square. (Photo courtesy of Inklings News)

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Yesterday’s Roundup noted that Michael Bolton was representing Connecticut, in last night’s premiere of NBC’s “American Song Contest.” The show is a US version of the long-running Eurovision competition.

We missed the trailer — which features our neighbor touting his home state’s charms. It includes a few shots from his Westport home.

Alert reader Ann Marie Holm sent it along:

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A few seats remain for this year’s Westport Library “Booked for the Evening” gala. The June 1 honoree is television producer/screenwriter/ author Shonda Rhimes — twice named one of Time magazine’s “100 Most Influential People in the World.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Shonda Rhimes

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Earlier this month, “06880” reported on Coleytown Middle School students headed to the state Mathcounts competition.

A followup: Vikram Sarkar finished first in Connecticut. He leads the 4-person Connecticut team that will compete in the national event, in Washington. Ayush Rudra finished 9th overall.

Vikram Sarkar

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While driving on Roseville Road the other day, Bob Weingarten spotted this unusual sight on a tree.

He has no idea what it means. But he figures at least one “06880” reader might know.

If you’ve got a clue, click “Comments” below.

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The first day of spring was Sunday.

Right on time, here’s a very vernal photo for our “Westport … Naturally” series:

(Photo/JD Dworkow)

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And finally … in honor of Frederic Chiu’s choose-your-own “Romeo and Juliet” ending (story above):

 

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