Tag Archives: Parker Harding Plaza

Roundup: Downtown Parking, Trump Signs, Andrew’s Army …

Posted on November 1, 2024 | 39 comments

Good news for employees: More all-day parking has been added downtown.

Since May 1 — when 3-hour parking enforcement began — officials have monitored the lots. Parker Harding Plaza has seen “a significant increase” in available spaces.

Meanwhile, all-day spaces in the Baldwin lot (off Elm Street) have been heavily utilized — but some 3-hour spaces were vacant, especially in the morning and early afternoon.

The Selectwoman’s office and Police Department will now convert 18 3-hour spaces in the Baldwin lot to all-day spots.

In addition, 25 spaces in the Jesup Road North lot (next to the Gillespie Center, near the police station) will be converted to all-day too.

For more information about parking, and a map that includes space count and locations for timed and all-day parking, click here.

Baldwin parking lot (tan), on Elm Street. Brooks Corner is the white building to its left.

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As “06880” reported yesterday, Tim Romano was not pleased that several Trump signs were knocked over, on the grass in front of Longshore.

On Wednesday night, he took matters into his own hands — literally.

Around 6 p.m. a passerby saw him, near his Trump-festooned golf cart, hammering at least 6 signs in the same area. He dug holes, then used 2x4s glued together to secure them in the ground. The resident — who contacted “06880” — hopes he will fill in the holes, once the the election is over.

(Photo/Tony Litman)

Another reader saw the signs later, and wrote to “06880”: “It can’t be legal to put up permanent campaign signs.”

It may be.

Under “Temporary Signs,” Westport’s Planning & Zoning regulations allow “Signs for political purposes.”

That’s it.

Only 4 more days …

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Speaking of politics: Republicans have charged that illegal aliens are voting in presidential election.

They’ve said that immigrants eat dogs.

Neither of those allegations is true.

But what is true is that here in Westport, dogs vote.

Want proof?

(Photo/Cat Malkin)

PS: Early voting runs through Sunday, November 3, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Town Hall auditorium.

Voting on Election Day (Tuesday, November 5), is from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., at regular polling places. Click here to view a district map.

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Yesterday marked the 11th anniversary of Andrew Accardi’s death. The 2011 Staples High School graduate and golf team member lost a 15-year battle against neuroblastoma. He was 20 years old.

Andrew’s family, and his many friends from Staples and Villanova University remember him lovingly. And, more than a decade later, they are honoring his memory generously.

On Wendnesday, “Andrew’s Army” presented a $90,000 check to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

The funds — raised by Andrew’s Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, friend and family — come from events like an annual golf outing.

In the front row of the photo below are (from left) Dr. John Maris, professor of pediatrics at Children’s Hospital, and a University of Pennsylvania professor; Professor and lab director Dr. Yale Mosse, and Dr. Frank Accardi, Andrew’s father.

The young people behind them are brilliant doctors and technicians at the Maris lab in the Colket Translational Research Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Dr. Accardi says that Dr. Maris “has more awards, and has contributed more than anyone perhaps in the world, to the study of and therapies for neuroblastoma.

“More importantly, he is the most sympathetic, compassionate physician I have ever known. He treated Andrew as if he were his own son.”

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The Westport Country Playhouse has a 93-year tradition of presenting top-notch plays and musicals. This year they’ve added concerts, cabarets, one-person shows, and much more.

Next up: tours of the historic theater.

They’re available by reservation on Fridays and Saturdays (10:30 a.m. to noon), November 15-16, December 13-14, January 17-18, and February 7-8. Each is limited to 25 people.

Guided by Playhouse archivist Bruce Miller, participants will learn how the past has been preserved since 1931, and how state-of-the-art technology has been introduced.

Attendees will explore backstage, the greenroom, dressing rooms, scene shop, wardrobe room, posters, photos, costume designs and set models. They’ll stand on the same stage as Gene Wilder, James Earl Jones, Jane Fonda, Eartha Kitt, Paul Newman, Kelli O’Hara, Patti LuPone and Audra McDonald.

Along the way Miller tell stories, including how the WCP helped inspire Oklahoma!” and “My Fair Lady.”

There is no fee for the tour, but donations are encouraged.  Click here for reservations, and more information

 Westport Country Playhouse (Photo/Wells Studio)

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Westport’s first responders have returned from North Carolina. They deployed there to help victims of Hurricane Helene.

On Wednesday, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, emergency management director Nick Marsan (far left and far right) and Police Chief Foti Koskinas (2nd from left) awarded certificates to (left to right) officer Gregory Gunter, tirefighter Michael Durette, Deputy Chief Matthew Cohen, firefighter Patrick Dailey and dispatcher Devin Mulligan.

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A PS to the story of Ben Casparius’ World Series championship:

After the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrated their victory Tuesday, they had time for friends who watched them win the final game.

For Casparius — the pitcher called up from the minor leagues only in August — that group included fellow Staples High graduates, from the classes of 2016 and ’17.

They knew him from his Little League days.

It was a special moment, on the hallowed Yankee Stadium grounds, with the newest World Series champ.

But it was also just like old times.

Ben Casparius (center, in his new championship t-shirt), with (from left), college friend Kenny Campbell, and Staples buddies Nathan Panzer, Justin Seideman and Kenny Brill. Panzer is a former Wrecker teammate.

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In an age of Amazon and Yelp reviews, many people still rely on old-school Consumer Reports.

Next Thursday (November 7, 10 a.m.), the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston invited the public to an inside look at how CR delivers information.

Panelists include editorial director Ellen Kunes, communications director Barrie Rosen and chief content officer vice president Jen Schecter.

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between October 23 and 30.

A 25-year-old Bridgeport man was arrested for larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny and criminal mischief, for his part in the May 9 smash-and-grab theft from Lux Bond & Green. He was held on $250,000 bond. Another suspect was arrested earlier.

A 21-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with assault and threatening, after a complaint by a co-worker. The suspect allegedly grabbed the other man by the hair and neck while driving home from work, and threatened to shoot him.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 13 citations
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to yield to a pedestrian: 1
  • Unsafe passing: 1
  • Unsafe backing: 1

Be careful when backing up!

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Daniel Szymczak — a 1996 graduate of Staples High School — died this week. He was 46.

A writer, teacher, boat captain and worldwide adventurer, Dan climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro last year. He lived in Florida, the Virgin Islands, Texas, New Mexico, Mexico, Alaska, and most recently Maryland.

At Staples, Dan wrestled and played football. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, and loved Ernest Hemingway, the English language, and his dog Charlie.

Dan earned a BA in English from the University of Texas, and an MFA in creative writing from Texas State University.

After serving as an English lecturer at Texas State, an editor at the University of Texas and with Mc-Graw Hill Education, and a proofreader for the Texas Legislative Council, he embarked on a new career. Dan was a captain on a 205-foot offshore supply vessel; an engineer, mate and bosun on private yachts, and a deckhand with Lindblad Expeditions.

Dan is survived by his mother and step-father, Paula and Edward Barta; father and step-mother Gordon and DJ Szymczak; siblings Penny, Matt, Gregory and Stephen Szymczak, and Luke and Ben Barta; nieces and nephews Alexa, Easton, Jackson and Max Szymczak, and Hailey and Bailey Barta, and his former fiancée Faith Harty.

A memorial service will be held at a date to be determined.

Dan Szymczak

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Toda’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows a pile of leaves, at the “leaf dump.”

Photographer Mark Mathias says, “I’m sure none of them were collected using a gas-powered leaf blower.”

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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And finally … Happy All Saints Day!

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Posted in Downtown, Library, Obituaries, Police, Politics, Sports, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

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Downtown Charette: Plans, Ideas, Opinions — And No Consensus

Posted on October 24, 2024 | 6 comments

A big crowd filled a small room at the Westport Library last night, to discuss a hot topic: the future of downtown.

The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee hosted a public charette for “all stakeholders.”

That group — including elected and appointed officials, real estate owners, merchants and their representatives, architects,  and plenty of residents — examined aerial photos, maps and plans for Parker Harding Plaza, Jesup Green, the Imperial Avenue parking and environs.

Plus 3 possible sites for a parking deck.

A large aerial photo showed the location of a possible parking deck on Elm Street.

They wrote their ideas on dozens of Post-Its and note cards.

Opinions were all over the lot. It was hard to find unanimity — even on beloved Jesup Green.

Plenty of attendees urged, “Don’t touch it!” Others recommended swapping it with the current Taylor parking lot, closer to the Saugatuck River.

The table devoted to plans for a parking deck at the the police station/Bay Street/Gillespie Center site adjacent to Jesup Green drew typically mixed responses.

“Does data show actual need?” one person wrote. “I always see open spots at midday.”

“A good spot,” a second said.

Architect and longtime Westporter Joe Vallone brought his own plan for an Elm Street parking structure. A Myrtle Avenue resident suggested instead that Town Hall was a better site for parking.

For every Westporter who suggested better use of an outlying lot — Imperial Avenue, say, or Town Hall — another countered that people do not want to walk more than they’re used to.

Then a third would point out that in Europe — and New York, where many Westporters residents lived not long ago — folks walk all the time.

One of many Post-It notes on the Parker Harding Plaza plan.

A public survey will be conducted next month. Downtown Plan Implementation Committee chair Randy Herbertson will present those results, and recommendations from consultants, after the holidays.

Metered parking? Moving the Farmers’ Market closer to downtown?

Last night, all ideas were on the charette table.

(Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella says, “The town was well represented by our elected and appointed officials. The involvement of residents was positive. I wish more were involved.

(“However, this is only the beginning of a long process. I look forward to the public being involved from near and far. Send comments to rtm-dl@westportct.gov,”)

(“06880” is your hyper-local source for Westport news. We rely on reader support. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here. Thank you!)

Attendees at last night’s charette. (All photos/Dan Woog)

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Posted in Downtown, Local politics

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Friday Flashback #408

Posted on July 19, 2024 | 9 comments

As plans for a “new” Parker Harding Plaza creep along — even slower than downtown traffic — let’s look at the original lot.

This view, a few years after it opened in 1954, shows the simple plan: circular traffic in one counterclockwise direction; angled parking along the river, in the middle and behind Main Street stores.

(Photo courtesy of Christopher Maroc)

Of particular interest: the old home on Gorham Island (since replaced by an office building), and a telephone booth (the only way to call anyone from there).

The traffic pattern gave way to a more complex plan in the 1980s.

Of course, Parker Harding is a relatively modern addition to downtown. Before it was built (on landfill), the Saugatuck River lapped up against the back doors of Main Street businesses.

 

 

Those were different times.

Including, unfortunately, shopkeepers who discharged sewage directly into the river.

(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)

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2-Way Traffic, Parker Harding Park, And More: Planning A New Downtown

Posted on June 13, 2024 | 18 comments

For over a year, Westporters have hotly contested the future of Parker Harding Plaza.

A plan to add more greenery to the riverside parking lot behind Main Street — while making it ADA-compliant and safer for emergency vehicles, causing the loss of 40-plus spaces — has enraged some merchants and shoppers.

Reaction to the plan — which also called for a reconfiguration of the Taylor lot across the Post Road near Jesup Green, and the possible addition of more parking at the Imperial Avenue lot — has led to renewed interest in a parking deck over the existing Baldwin lot, on Elm Street.

Those ideas are considered a radical rethinking of downtown.

But to Jeff Speck, they’re just baby steps.

Jeff Speck

The nationally renowned urban planner — whose books include “Walkable City: How Downtown Saves America, One Step at a Time” — has some ideas on how Westport can really transform itself.

Our town can be much more walkable and bikeable, he says.

And it all starts by looking at downtown in an entirely new way.

Speck spoke earlier this month at Bedford Middle School, sponsored by Sustainable Westport. He was competing with several other events — including Doris Kearns Goodwin at the Library, and Startup Westport at Longshore — but a crowd of nearly 200 listened intently.

Drawn in part by the idea of walkability and bikeability, they seemed intrigued by concepts like a 2-line bike lane from downtown to the beach, via Imperial Avenue, Bridge Street and Compo Road South.

Speck noted that parking, vehicle size, speed limits, the environment, the number of lanes and the width of roads impact walkability and safety.

But that was just an appetizer. The entrée was Speck’s red-meat version of a very different Main Street and environs.

His vision of Parker Harding is “a waterfront worthy of Westport.” It places a “second Main Street,” with parallel parking, between the shops and the water.

The rest of the space is reserved for playgrounds, plazas and other amenities.

Jeff Speck sketched out this plan for Parker Harding. The Saugatuck River is at bottom; the redesigned parking lot would include playgrounds, trees and other amenities. 

It is based on a larger plan of centralizing downtown parking in a structure — multi-story, but hidden from view by apartments — on the Baldwin lot.

“Changing all your lightbulbs to energy savers saves as much energy in a year as moving to a walkable neighborhood saves in a week,” he says, citing “location efficiency” as a major factor in reducing a town’s carbon footprint. 

On-street parking would be priced “properly,” which Speck says would allow merchants to “truly thrive.”

In his “Walkable City” book, Speck argues that a downtown becomes a “much more vital place” once merchants “are willing to learn (from best practices nationally) that parking right in front of one’s destination is a second-class solution.”

It is inferior, Speck argues, “to what happens in the best shopping districts, where people walk a short distance from centralized parking to their destinations, creating street life.”

Jeff Speck’s presentation included this aerial view of downtown Westport. The Baldwin parking lot and environs are outlined in red.

Pricing parking “properly” will also reduce the tremendous amount of “hunting-for-parking circulation,” which Speck says slows and frustrates downtown traffic.

He also advocates 2-way traffic on all of Main Street. (It was in effect from the advent of automobiles, through he 1970s.)

Two-way traffic “improves safety, street life, traffic circulation, access to shops, and revenues to merchants,” Speck says. (Click here for a story on 2-way traffic.)

Two-way Main Street traffic, in the 1970s. (Photo/Steve Baldwin)

Speck has one other suggestion: Remove the Athleta building, to create more of a path from Main Street to Parker Harding, and the river.

“A significant gap in that 925-foot long block is needed for its economic and social success,” Speck says. “It’s best located at the bottom of Elm Street.”

But how willing is a property owner to tear down a structure?

“If the owner of the Athleta building owns the adjacent properties, or a significant amount downtown, they will benefit financially from a plan that removes some or all of that building (or another one nearby), and then places doors and windows on the corridor created by its removal,” Speck says.

“The whole downtown will be more successful when that gigantic block no longer forms an interminable Great Wall of China between Main Street and the waterfront.

CGR — the owner, part of Empire State Realty — does own adjacent Main Street property.

Westporters have “grown accustomed to a tawdry waterfront that makes folks from out of town scratch their heads and wonder ‘but … how?'” he notes.

“It is so out of keeping with the upscale, attractive image that the town wishes to portray, and not worthy of your collective status and history.

“The plan to repave it is also unsustainable, barely reducing the amount of impervious area.”

Jeff Speck’s vision for Westport is big, bold — and bound to be controversial.

Exactly like Parker Harding Plaza was, when it was first announced 7 decades ago.

(Hat tip: Rob Feakins)

Click below to watch Jeff Speck’s full presentation.

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The morning after the presentation, a group of local officials including 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and members of the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee met with Speck and Sustainable Westport to discuss some of his ideas.

Speck reiterated the importance of a comprehensive master plan that addresses parking policy and strategy, alongside riverfront redesign and other development efforts.

Following Speck’s visit, Sustainable Westport urges residents to continue the conversation by contributing to the vision of a walkable Westport. The organization says.

They urge residents to share their opinions by email with the RTM (RTM-DL@Westportct.gov), Planning and Zoning Commission (PandZ@Westportct.gov), and Tooker (JTooker@Westportct.gov); selectwoman@westportct.gov).

To address traffic and safety issues, click here or email the head of the Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Task Force, Tom Kiely (Tkiely@westportct.gov).

To share ideas about downtown redevelopment, click here for the DPIC feedback form.

(“06880” covers the Westport waterfront — and riverfront, and downtown, and everything else in town. We also provide a forum for discussion about it all. Please click here to support our work!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Local business

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Roundup: Downtown Parking, “06880” Insta, Staples Skate Club …

Posted on May 8, 2024 | 11 comments

After several hours of debate, the Representative Town Meeting voted 25-10 last night to appropriate $630,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to proceed with the redesign of Parker Harding Plaza and Jesup Green.

A majority of members felt that the vote was necessary to move the project forward.

They noted that specific votes on, for example, removing trees from Jesup Green and adding a parking deck at the Baldwin lot or elsewhere could come later, once the funds have been appropriated.

Many RTM members indicated that although they approved this appropriation, they would not vote for removing trees from Jesup Green.

RTM moderator Jeff Wieser told “06880”: “We are 36 people and we seldom come away all happy from a discussion. We reached a place which 25 of us could support, and we kept the process going.  And before one chain saw is started, we will have a chance to stop it.

‘The RTM expressed great concern about touching Jesup Green. The RTM got a commitment from the (Tooker) administration to look at the feasibility of parking structures in 3 locations.

“The RTM was told that it would be a year before any plans were solidified to begin construction. The RTM was told that the design will be coordinated with the current review of options for the public safety facilities — which could involve the relocation of the Police Department.”

Meanwhile, a new twist in the downtown parking saga was introduced Monday at Superior Court in Bridgeport.

A lawsuit filed by the owners of 3 downtown businesses — Nômade restaurant, Honeydo Family and Elixir Spa — asked the court to overturn and deny the Planning & Zoning Commission’s recent approval of the town’s 8-24 request to redesign the Parker Harding and Imperial Avenue parking lots.

The lawsuit has a return date of June 4.

Redesign of Parker Harding Plaza may be slowed by a lawsuit.

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Six days after a gasoline tanker fire shut I-95 — and 3 days after the highway was reopened — traffic backups returned to Westport.

This time an accident in Fairfield snarled backroads like Long Lots throughout the east part of town. This was the scene crossing Morningside Drive South on Hillandale Road, in heavy rain:

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Ah, technology!

I included the wrong link yesterday for our new video feature, hosted and produced by Dave Briggs.

It showed just a snipped of the JL Rocks Instagram — not the full 90-second story. Click here to see what I meant to post. Click here for yesterday’s story, introducing Dave’s great work.

Voting is still open to choose a name for our new feature: Which do you prefer: “Vide-06880” or “0688Vide-0“? (The final choice won’t include the hyphens.)  Click “Comments” below.

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The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee holds a public meeting tomorrow (Thursday, May 9, 8:30 a.m., Town Hall Room 201). Remote and in-person comments from the public will be received as time is available. The email address is DPIC-comments@westportct.gov.

The agenda includes the downtown lots design master plan; Parker Harding status, and the Jesup and Imperial lots.

The Parker Harding Plaz plan.

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The bear that was spotted near Merritt Parkway Exit 41 a few days ago — or perhaps another one — was seen yesterday morning around Evergreen Parkway and Tamarac Road.

At both places, it — or they — knocked over bird feeders.

Screenshot from Jeffrey Cuff’s Ring video.

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The Staples High School Skate Club appreciates the Compo Beach Skate Park.

But they know it needs work.

Members, and advisor Jesse Bauks, have worked with Westport Parks & Recreation parks superintendent Mike West, and the owner of Rampage Skate Equipment, to demolish and replace the large ramp.

They also took time from practicing tricks and flips, to raise funds. Among their projects: concerts at Toquet Hall, with local bands The Corduroys and Dulcit.

The Skate Club is donating $1,000 to Parks & Rec for additional repairs and maintenance.

Staples Skate Club (top row, left to right): Tiffany Cheng, Olivia Zhou, Julian Saitz, Kelpin Ramos, JC Ubaldo, Nicolas Blanco. Bottom:: Kimberly Cheng, Freddie Aldridge (president), Juan Nieves, Ally Russell-Laga, Tiffany Cheng, Nora Ismael-Bakkali.

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Does Mom want a box of farm-fresh food for Mother’s Day? (It’s Sunday, dudes!)

The day before — Saturday, May 11 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), everyone is invited to Double L. The Post Road East market — beloved for its commitment to clean, healthy goods from local farms and artisans — hosts a “Build a Box” event.

Everyone is invited to create a special food box, from a curated mix of signature products (“boxed in a thoughtful presentation”).

Double L Market.

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The Westport Garden Club has a long history at Grace Salmon Park.

The former unsightly landfill became a park in 1977 through the club’s fundraising efforts, elbow grease, and partnerships throughout the town. The club continues to maintain its gardens, and recently renovated the plantings as part of Westport’s Pollinator Pathway.

For the club’s 100th anniversary, current and past president chose Grace Salmon Park to commemorate a century of civic beautification.

With the help of Mark Bolduc of Giunta-Bolduc Mason Contractors, and Gault Stone & Landscaping, a sundial was installed in the garden this week.

As members gear up for their annual plant sale on Jesup Green this Saturday, they invite residents to stop by the nearby Imperial Avenue park, and enjoy its newest addition.

The sundial looks like it’s always been part of Grace Salmon Park.

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Yale University won its first-ever women’s lacrosse Ivy League championship on Sunday.

And they have an athlete with Westport connections to thank.

Taylor Lane scored the game-winner in overtime against the University of Pennsylvania, after the Bulldogs battled back from a 9-5 4th-quarter deficit. The tying goal came with just 5 seconds left.

Lane — a Greenwich Academy graduate — has great genes. Her father, Peter Lane, was a noted Staples High School quarterback, in the 1980s. His father — Taylor’s grandfather, Paul Lane — was the Wreckers’ longtime football coach. Staples’ stadium is now named in his honor.

One more connection: Taylor’s first cousin is Max Maurillo. He made the goal line, game-saving tackle last fall, to clinch Staples’ state football championship.

Yale starts its NCAA title quest Friday, at home (1 p.m.). (Hat tip: Chuck Haberstroh)

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Speaking of athletes: Kate Lesch was a star soccer player, in Staples’ Class of 2016. She moved to New Hampshire before graduating, then headed to Washington & Lee University.

Now she’s written her first novel. The official publication date is today.

“A Summer in Nixie” is a teen and young adult coming of age story. It’s about a girl’s last summer before college, a best friend she didn’t know she needed, back porch conversations with her mom, and a guy she doesn’t want to get involved with, but can’t get out of her head.

Click here to purchase, and for more information,

Kate Lesch, with her novel.

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Speaking of Staples: The school has announced its May Students of the Month.

Senior Logan Manchester, juniors Julianna Gallo and Willian Vanamee, sophomore Zoe Glekas and Asher Vengrow, and freshman Ellary Lueker “help make Staples a welcoming place for their peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the Staples community — the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together, making it the special place that it is.”

“Students of the month are nominated by their teachers, who are asked to think of those students who come to school regularly, are friendly to the staff and to fellow students, and make positive contributions in class as well as the Staples community. In short, these students are all-around good citizens of our school.”

From left: Logan Manchester, Asher Vengrow, Julianna Gallo, Ellary Lueker , Zoe Glekas, William Vanamee.

  =================================================                                                                                                                                                        Sconset Square’s Penfield Collective welcomes NeverNot, a fine jewelry brand from London, for a one-day show (May 21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

NeverNot’s Nina Dzhokhadze designs whimsical jewelry for everyday wear. Stock lists include The Webster, Nordstrom, Farfetch, Moda Operandi and Goop.

NeverNot says Westport was chosen because of our “fashion forward, colorful and whimsical shoppers….Our sunglasses and suitcases (will) perfectly complement the holiday vibes Westport women enjoy all year round.”

  

NeverNot jewelry.

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The Greens Farms Association’s annual meeting is May 15 (7 p.m.; Green’s Farms Church).  The guest speaker is First Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

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Yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club speaker was Angela Pohlen, executive director of the Catholic Academy of Bridgeport.

She spoke about their high level of excellence, including a merit pay program that incentivizes teachers to excel. Almost 100% of graduates go on to college or other post-graduate education.

Angela Pohlen

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Today’s very intriguing “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from the very alert nature photographer Johanna Keyser Rossi, at Sherwood Island State Park. She writes:

“From a distance I thought these were turkeys. But then I saw the long beak. First time I ever saw these kind of birds — glossy ibises.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … this is Teacher Appreciation Week. Have you thanked a teacher yet?

(Today’s lesson: “06880” is free every day. But we rely on reader support to keep going. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Downtown Parking Update: ARPA $$ Legal Opinion, WDA Support

Posted on May 7, 2024 | 5 comments

A legal opinion from attorney Nicholas R. Bamonte, regarding American Rescue Plan Act funds for the design and redevelopment of Jesup Green and the Imperial Avenue parking lot, says: “the use of those funds (is) an eligible use of ARPA funds, and the requested appropriation may be validly authorized by the RTM.”

The RTM is expected to vote on that $630,000 appropriate tonight. Concerns had arisen that using ARPA funds for parking lot design and redevelopment may be illegal.

Bamonte noted 7 primary ways, according to 2023 rules, that ARPA funds may be used.

Because  the town is “contemplating improvements to provide more
parking, enhance public safety and better manage traffic,” Bamonte says, the funds fall under this usage: “For the provision of government services to the extent of the reduction in revenue due to the COVID–19 public health emergency relative to revenues collected in the most recent full fiscal year prior to the emergency.”

Bamonte adds, “Government services include, but are not limited to:
• Maintenance or pay-go funded building of infrastructure, including roads; modernization of cybersecurity, including hardware, software, and protection of critical infrastructure;
• Health services; environmental remediation;
• School or educational services; and
• The provision of police, fire, and other public safety services.”

He concludes, “because the proposed Design Work falls within several of the government services subcategories, particularly the first bullet regarding infrastructure, up to $10 million in remaining Town ARPA funds may be
legally appropriated and expended for that purpose.”

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Support for funding the study came today from Maxxwell Crowley, president of the Westport Downtown Association.

In a letter to the RTM, he said: “I am writing to you today regarding the upcoming RTM meeting to discuss the design funding for Downtown District master plan — specifically the work for Jesup and Imperial Lots as well as the green space, riverfront, and further evaluation of the proposed parking deck.

“As the president of the Westport Downtown Association, I am fully in favor of this funding proposal, as it is critical for the design piece of this project and showing the residents of the town the master plan for the future of Downtown Westport.

“This project will not only maximize the green space downtown, but also provide new life to the beautiful riverfront and most importantly optimize the parking servicing our key commerce and culture sub-districts.

“As president of the Downtown Association, as well as a business owner downtown Westport, and a lifelong resident of Westport, I think this proposed project is critical to the future of our Town.

“We are so lucky to have the downtown footprint we have, especially with a river running through. We are doing ourselves a disservice if we allow politics to get in the way of pushing this plan forward.

“We need to not only think about this project for today, but also the future generations who will live and enjoy our town. This plan will make downtown a
gathering place for residents creating a sense of community and economic vitality.”

Town bodies continue to debate the future of Parker Harding Plaza, adjacent lots, and the possibility of a parking deck at the Baldwin lot. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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[OPINION] Parker Harding, Baldwin Deck: Go Slow, Get It Right

Posted on May 4, 2024 | 18 comments

Longtime Westport residents Mike Nayor and Larry Weisman sent this letter to all Representative Town Meeting members:

You will shortly be debating the pros and cons of Jesup Green/downtown parking that have the potential for transforming downtown Westport.

Parker Harding is the linchpin. It needs a makeover to become more attractive, pleasant and inviting, and more riverfront oriented.

In a September “Opinion” piece in”06880″ Robert Augustyn posed taking bold steps to reconfigure Parker Harding to an almost park-like setting, while adding retail space, plus a parking deck at the Baldwin lot to make up for lost PH spaces.

The column elicited 58 responses. There was overwhelming support for virtually all of his suggested changes. A few comments concerned potential flooding and cost, but the vast majority enthusiastically supported the idea of a parking facility.

Not one writer objected to the proposal.

Parker Harding Plaza (Drone photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

Historically, controversial changes/improvements undertaken in Westport have been hailed after the fact, and we are usually puzzled why any particular project was opposed in the first place. A parking deck can certainly be designed acceptable to all, to be integrated into its environment, with a low profile which does not mar the downtown skyline or hinder neighbors.

The need for contiguous parking at or very near store entrances has been pushed for decades. With the exception for handicapped parking, Westporters and visitors do not need curb-to-door access downtown. Witness the large number of cars parked at Gorham Island on weekends, creating a short walk to Main Street. Strolling pedestrians create a lingering and community atmosphere that benefits retailers.

A parking deck at the Baldwin lot alleviates the necessity for expanded Jesup Green parking. Therefore, the request for an appropriation of $630,000 should not be approved. Money could be far better spent to address other, more immediate downtown issues.

We urge RTM members to adopt this plan for downtown. The RTM should respond to the needs and desires of its residents. Improvements have been discussed and postponed for decades. The supposed urgency to get a spade in the ground now is not as important as getting it right. Poor choices now will have long term consequences.

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Roundup: RTM & DPIC, “MOMents That Matter,” Drug Takeback Day …

Posted on April 25, 2024 | 7 comments

Two dozen electors have petitioned the Representative Town Meeting to appoint a committee to “review the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee’s plans for both Parker Harding and Jesup Green, the scope of the work and the associated costs; and to consider the merits and costs associated with feasible alternatives to what is being proposed by the DPIC, including a parking deck at the Baldwin lot; and to report its findings to the entire membership for such action as may be appropriate.”

The petitioners note “a great deal of concern and consternation among the citizenry surrounding the DPIC proposal, focused upon both the encroachment into Jesup Green and perceived flaws in the redesign of Parker Harding.”

RTM moderator Jeff Wieser has asked the RTM Rules Committee to review the petition prior to the full body’s May 7 meeting.

Wieser says that the RTM will take up that topic at the full meeting, along with the request for design funds to propose construction drawings for Jesup Green and the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

“Various committees have met regarding the design funds,” he notes. In addition, the RTM will have field trips next week at Jesup Green to review the proposed plans.

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It’s very appropriate: WestportMoms is hosting a Mother’s Day celebration — called “MOMents that Matter” — next Thursday (May 2, 6 to 10 p.m., Birchwood Country Club).

The event includes:

  • Mother’s Day shopping boutique with curated vendors
  • Panel discussion “rock star local moms” (including CNN anchor Alisyn Camerota, actress Stephanie Szostak, “Devil Wears Prada” author Lauren Weisberger, Melissa + Doug co-founder Melissa Bernstein and others) on balancing careers and motherhood, and the “MOMents That Matter.”
  • Gift bags for 50 attendees ($100 gift card to WEST, massage at Squeeze, and much more)
  • Appetizers from the new Birchwood chef, and cash bar.

Attendees are asked to bring a pack of feminine napkins, for women in need. The be donated to the Diaper Bank of Connecticut.

Tickets are $30. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Stacie Curran reports:

“What a wild nightyesterday at the Westport Library!

“Attendees from Club 203 members (our social group for adults with disabilities) and friends packed the Trefz Forum with a night of ‘speed friending; by TeenSLP (Staples High School’s speech and language expert Deirdre Flores), and rockin’ out with karaoke by our MC extraordinaire volunteer PJ Pitcher.

Thank you, Westport Library, for this incredible space. A special shout-out to associate director Alex Giannini, and the sound manager of Verso Studios, Travis Bell. You turned dreams into realty!”

Part of the Club 203 fun last night at the Westport Library.

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There’s a new addition to Saturday’s annual Drug Takeback Day (April 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Westport Senior Center).

A Wellness Fair — sponsored by Positive Directions — will take place, along with a collection by Westport Police and the Drug Enforcement Agency of tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs.

Syringes, sharps and illicit drugs are not accepted. Liquid products like cough syrup should remain sealed in their original container.

Residents can bring expired and unwanted medications for safe disposal, then stay for “wellness fun.”

The event includes a free behavioral health screening and blood pressure check, a sensory table for relaxation, and nutrition tips.

Prevention resources include drug awareness activities (drunk goggles, liquor stickers, lock bags, Narcan demonstration), tick and mosquito prevention resources, and gambling awareness materials.

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Prep work continues for the upcoming beach season.

It’s not pretty.

But — a few weeks from now — it will be worth it.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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Speaking of big vehicles: Dennis Wong was surprised this yesterday, near the Westport Library:

(Photo/Dennis Wong)

It’s not new. However, it is usually parked in the lower Westport Police parking lot, near EMS. It was moved, because the lot will be swept.

The vehicle is used for high water rescue incidents, during floods.

Hopefully it’s like insurance: We pay for it, but don’t want to ever use it.

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Speaking of police: The Westport PD made 6 custodial arrests between April 17 and 24.

A 26-year-old Bridgeport woman was arrested for larceny, illegal taking of a payment card, illegal use of a credit card exceeding $500, receipt from illegal use of a credit card, and identity theft, following complaint of fraudulent credit card charges over $12,000. Surveillance footage at Walgreens determined that an employee had used the card to purchase gift cards. Surveillance footage at other locations also showed the same user.

A 52-year-old Elizabeth, New Jersey woman was arrested for larceny and forgery, and conspiracy to commit those crimes, after a $560 check was stolen from their mailbox, and fraudulently deposited for $5,500..

A 43-year-old Westport man was charged with disorderly conduct and interfering with an emergency call, following a domestic disturbance. His comments made a family member fear for their safety, then held their car keys so they could not leave and interfered with a 911 call for help

A 47-year-old Stamford woman was charged with disorderly conduct and assault, after a domestic violence incident in a Westport home.

A 33-year-old Norwalk man was arrested for illegal operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended license, evading responsibility, failure to obey a stop sign and operating a motor vehicle without a license, following an accident with injuries at the Compo Road North/Evergreen Avenue intersection. The driver — who fled with the passenger on foot — had failed to stop at the Evergreen Avenue stop sign. He and the passenger were quickly apprehended. The operator of the vehicle that was struck sustained minor injuries.

A 39-year-old Darien man was arrested for driving under the influence after his vehicle was stopped in the travel portion of the street, near 1655 Post Road East. Officers found the driver disoriented, unable to follow basic instructions, and with the odor of alcohol on his breath.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

Traveling unreasonably fast: 3 citations

  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Interfering with an officer: 1
  • Reckless driving: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Failure to yield to a pedestrian: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks like this one, on Riverside Avenue at Sylvan Lane.

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Suzuki Music Schools are best known for their violin instructions.

Sophie B. Hawkins does not play the violin.

No matter. The Westport-based singer/songwriter is the special guest performer at Suzuki’s annual gala this Friday (April 26, Aspetuck Country Club, Weston). She’ll be accompanied by Suzuki students.

The event includes a cocktail hour with open bar, dinner, and a live auction.

Last year’s gala raised nearly $40,000 to support their Bridgeport Outreach programs, to provide music lessons to children in need.

This year’s goal: raise enough funds to provide violins for those children to take home for practice.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Sophie B. Hawkins

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There was just the slightest touch of rain yesterday, for about 1/10 of a second.

But we were nonetheless treated to a sweet rainbow. Here are 2 drone views. (Apologies to all who sent photos — we can’t post them all!)

 

Over the Westport woods, and …

… the Merritt Parkway … (Drone photos/Paul Delano)

… and the Fairfield County Hunt Club. (Photo/Dave Shea)

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Dimitri Alatakis — a part owner of the Sherwood Diner — died last week, after suffering a heart attack. He lived in Fairfield, and was 61.

Dimitri is survived by his wife of 31 years, Donna; children Dimitri, Zoe and Alexei; mother Galatia and brother Stephen. He was predeceased by his father Andreas.

Services will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 4070 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604, to benefit the preschool program.

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We don’t often post a nighttime “Westport … Naturally” photo. Here’s an exception: Jerry Kuyper’s image, “minutes after the moon hit full.”

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … on this day in 1792, “La Marseillaise” — the French national anthem — was composed by Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle.

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Baldwin Parking Deck Gains Traction

Posted on April 22, 2024 | 24 comments

For years, a few Westporters suggested building a parking deck at the Baldwin lot.

For just as long, the idea was never considered seriously.

Between aesthetics and cost, plans for the land off Elm Street between the back of Brooks Corner and Christ & Holy Trinity Church have not gone anywhere.

Another reason: When people heard heard “deck,” they thought: “parking garage.”

A deck, however, is just that: one level, on top of the existing lot.

It is not a “parking garage,” with confusing entrances, exits and ramps.

Part of the Baldwin parking lot. It extends on the right side too.

Though the concept was included in Westport’s 2015 master plan, the Baldwin lot was eventually simply renovated. The project was completed in 2022, for $1.4 million.

Now though — as town officials, the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee, merchants, restaurateurs, property owners, shoppers and residents wrangle over the reconstruction of Parker Harding Plaza, the reconfiguration of the Jesup Green area, and the future of the Imperial Avenue lot (along with environmental concerns, the role of commerce in Westport, and the political process undergirding all of the above) — more stakeholders are saying: You know, a parking deck at Baldwin isn’t such a bad idea after all.

Joe Vallone is one of those people.

Joe Vallone

A longtime Westporter, architect, real estate developer, and champion of urban renewal and historic preservation, he prepared a design at the request of Representative Town Meeting member Jennifer Johnson. It accommodates about 100 vehicles.

Elm Street sits about 21 feet above sea level, Vallone says. The proposed deck is 3 feet higher.

However, he says, “with a travel distance of over 100′ of length, the grade difference will be barely perceptible, meaning a relatively flat walkway from Elm Street to the deck.”

The lower deck ranges from an elevation of 10 to 11 feet. Vallone doubts any parking spaces there would be lost.

He envision an 8-foot wide walkway, and an 8-foot wide green space for large potted trees and planting areas. They would be well lit, and visible from Elm Street.

He also envisions a transparent pipe railing system, with built-in planting boxes.

Vallone was careful not to encroach on homes with backyards nearest to the existing lot.

Joe Vallone’s plan for the Baldwin parking lot.

Other developers might try to cram in 25 to 30 more spaces, Vallone says. However, that would feel “heavy-handed, cumbersome and surely raise the ire of neighbors.”

He believes his design solution is a “fairly simple build.” The only disruption to the existing lot might be the placement of new steel columns, which will need to be “carefully located in harmony with existing parking spaces.”

A storm water drainage connection from the new deck, and removal of several existing pole light fixtures, would also need to be addressed. These too are “not complicated issues.”

Vallone says the rule of thumb for elevated parking decks is about $25,000 to $30,000 per space. That works out to roughly $2.5 to $3.5 million for the entire structure. He doubts it would reach $4 million.

There is no need for much site excavation or an elevator. Opponents of a deck raised those issues earlier this year, when they cited a cost of $80 million to $100 million for a deck.

Meanwhile, Lawrence Weisman’s petition to place the downtown parking issue on the Representative Town Meeting agenda has gained nearly 200 signatures.

It notes: “A parking deck on the Baldwin lot will provide additional parking in an easily accessible location at affordable cost without the need to encroach upon the town green.”

After more than a decade of idle talk about a parking deck — something few Westporters took seriously — the idea no longer seems fanciful.

Now let’s see who drives it forward.

And who wants to apply the brakes.

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Roundup: Jesup Green, Ann Chernow, Fleet Feet …

Posted on April 15, 2024 | 7 comments

A small group gathered yesterday, in support of Jesup Green.

The land between Jesup Road and the Westport Library is included in a plan to renovate downtown parking. Trees at the top of the green would be removed, to replace spaces slated to be lost across the Post Road at Parker Harding Plaza.

Green space would be added later, closer to the Saugatuck River at what is known as the Taylor lot.

Among the attendees were District 9 Representative Town Meeting members Sal Liccione and Jennifer Johnson. Their district includes Jesup Green.

The RTM may consider an appropriation for the Jesup repaving plan on May 8.

Members of Westport’s Tree Board also joined the group. So did Marliyn Harding, whose father Evan Harding designed Parker Harding.

Attendees were asked to sign a petition to review downtown parking plans for an option that does not jeopardize Jesup Green, proposed by attorney Lawrence Weisman.

Two meetings about downtown parking are scheduled for this week: tonight (Monday, 6 p.m., Zoom, RTM Planning & Zoning Committee) and Wednesday (April 17, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 309, RTM Environment Committee).

Both meetings generated a bit of controversy when they were announced. This week is spring break for the Westport Public Schools, and a number of residents are not in town.

Sunday’s Jesup Green meeting.

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Also yesterday, just few yards from Jesup Green, the Westport Library hosted a celebration of Westport artist Ann Chernow.

The event — inspired by film noir scenes of the 1930s through ’50s — included the premiere of a documentary depicting her life and legacy.

Afterward, her son (and Staples High School graduate) Dan Chenok led a panel discussion. It included actors Keir Dullea and Mia Dillon, film critic Susan Granger, and the film’s co-creator Andrea Wozny.

Dan Chenok (far right) with (from left) Keir Dullea, Mia Dillon, Susan Granger and Andrea Wozny.

The audience also heard from the artist’s cousin-in-law Ron Chernow, author of best-selling biographies like “Grant” and “Alexander Hamilton.”

Ron Chernow (Photos and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Fleet Feet’s “Zoomerang” kids’ running program returns May 5.

It runs Sundays at 1 p.m. through June 16, at Staples High School’s Laddie Lawrence Track.

Sessions are “run” by experienced youth coaches, led by Dave Wright, Fleet Feet Westport owner (and Staples High School girls track and field coach).

It’s open to any youngsters: experienced runners, newcomers, and athletes in other sports who want to get faster. Click here for more information.

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Augusta National golf course — where the Masters tournament concluded yesterday — is known for its magnificent magnolias.

Well, ours are not too shabby themselves. Barry Kresch captured water droplets on these, after a recent rain, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Barry Kresch)

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And finally … on this date in 1865, Abraham Lincoln died. He was shot the previous evening at Ford’s Theater, by famed actor John Wilkes Booth. Less than a week earlier, General Robert E. Lee surrendered his army to Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the Civil War.

Surprisingly, this was one of President Lincoln’s favorite songs. He had it played at political rallies, and after news of General Lee’s surrender. ”

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