Tag Archives: Push Against Cancer

Roundup: World Series, Push-ups, Compo Dogs …

Posted on October 21, 2024 | 14 comments

Ben Casparius is headed to the World Series.

The 2017 Staples High School graduate — believed to be the first former Wrecker ever to reach baseball’s Major Leagues — now goes to the ultimate games.

And he’s one reason they’re there.

Called up from the minors in August, Casparius has proven to be a reliable relief pitcher. Last night he threw 1 1/3 innings, allowing 2 hits, walking 1 but giving up no runs, as the Dodgers beat the New York Mets 10-5.

And Casparius — one of 7 LA pitchers — was credited with the win. It was his first in MLB.

Jeff Mitchell explains: “If the starting pitcher does not complete at least 5 innings and leaves the game with a lead that the team maintains, the official scorer will decide which relief pitcher is credited with the win.

“The scorer typically awards the win to the relief pitcher who was the most effective in preserving the lead during the game. Because no relief pitcher pitched more innings than Ben (1 1/3) nor had a better ERA (0.00), Ben was awarded it.

“I highly doubt any pitcher in the history of baseball has won a post-season game with fewer regular season appearances. Ben had appeared in just 3 regular season games, and now has appeared in 4 post-season games.

“However, rumors are that Dodger relievers Brusdar Graterol and Alex Vesia might be well enough to return for the World Series. That means they would need to replace 1 or 2 relievers currently on the roster.

“Ben is not assured to be back on the starting roster. But I think he’ll be in the dugout to be used in case of injury.”

Here’s the clubhouse scene, after the game:

 

Meanwhile, as the California team battled to reach the World Series — against the New York Yankees — most folks assumed the Connecticut native had grown up rooting for either the Yanks or the Mets.

Nope.

Yesterday’s Boston Globe reported:

Dodgers rookie righthander Ben Caspariusgrew up in Westport, Conn., which is Yankees territory. But he was a Red Sox fan.

“My father is from Maine and he and my mom went to Northeastern,” Casparius said. “So I always liked the Sox.”

The Globe added:

Casparius was a two-way player at North Carolina then transferred to UConn to focus on pitching.

It was a good decision. He had a 3.36 ERA as a starter in Triple A this season, made his major league debut as a reliever, and worked 3 scoreless innings in his first 2 postseason games, striking out 4 and not allowing a hit.

His message from manager Dave Roberts?

“Just be myself,” Casparius said. “It’s just another day in baseball, nothing needs to change, or reinvent the wheel or try anything new. And really just to soak it all in and just take in every moment. Enjoy it.”

Casparius hit 97 miles per hour with his fastball against the Mets in Game 3 of the NLCS. While his work has not been in high-leverage spots, Casparius picking up outs has helped the other relievers get some rest.

(Hat tip: Jeff Booth)

Ben Casparius (screenshot courtesy of Dave Briggs)

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Speaking of sports: Members of the Staples High School boys and girls soccer teams, and the field hockey squad, joined many other Westporters yesterday morning, at the annual Push Against Cancer event.

The giant push-up festival raises funds to support The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, aiding children with serious illnesses.

First selectwoman Jen Tooker was there to support the cause, and event founder Andy Berman.

Literally, as the photo below shows:

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and Andy Berman.

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A gentle reminder, from Westport’s great Parks & Recreation Department: From now through March 31, dogs are welcome at Compo Beach.

There are leashed and unleashed areas on the sand.

Dogs are not allowed on the sidewalk or boardwalk. Please keep them free for humans!

(Photo/Carm Roda)

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Gail Bernstein — who in her more than 30 years as benefits coordinator for the town of Westport solved many problems, made life better for countless employees, and earned great respect — died peacefully at her Fairfield home on Thursday, surrounded by her family. She was 89.

She is survived by her sons Paul (April) and Douglas; sister Judy (Dan); nephews Jeffrey (Jo), Matthew (Paloma), Rob (Jennifer), Peter (Scott), David (Linda); niece Martha; step-grandchildren Michael, Emily and Jason; grandnieces Sabrina and Nicole; grandnephew Michael, and other extended family and friends.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday (October 22, 12 noon, Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield). Burial will follow in Lawncroft Cemetery. F

Friends and family may visit at the funeral home from 10 a.m. to noon on Tuesday. Click here to leave an online condolence note.

Gail Bernstein

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Bees do it.

Cooperate, that is.

Nancy Vener provides an up-close-and-very-personal look, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Nancy Vener)

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And finally … in honor of Ben Casparius’ Boston Red Sox fandom:

(Good times never seem so good as when you’re part of our great “06880” community. If you enjoy our hyper-local blog, please consider supporting our work. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Obituaries, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Car Thefts, Police Reports, Cardiac Screening …

Posted on September 14, 2023 | 16 comments

Andrew Colabella reports:

“Yesterday at 2:10 a.m., 2 vehicles were stolen out of a driveway in the Compo Beach/Hillspoint area. Keys were left in both cars.

“The thieves were flanked by another vehicle following, traveling at a high rate of speed circling the cul-de-sac multiple times trying to get out, waking up neighbors.

“At 3:42 a.m. they were seen on camera entering another driveway, looking into vehicles for any valuables.

“One car has been recovered.

“They’re known to be between the ages of 14-26, from the Waterbury/Torrington and New Haven areas, and carrying illegally obtained pistols.

“Reminder: Remove valuables from your vehicle at night, so they are not in plain sight. Lock your vehicles, whether in the driveway, garage or carport, at all times.

“Keep key fobs far from your vehicle, as they might be able to start it within only a short range of distance.

“If you see anything suspicious, call 911 or 203-341-6000.”

Car thieves in Westport don’t have to break in, or jimmy locks. By leaving doors unlocked, with keys in the ignition, we make things easy for them.

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Speaking of police: Westport officers made 3 custodial arrests between September 6 and 13.

After a hit-and-run accident on Post Road East at Turkey Hill, an officer spotted the driver northbound on I-95. The driver was stopped at Exit 25, and charged with evading responsibility; operating an unregistered motor vehicle; driving with a suspended license; failure to register a motor vehicle; failure to drive right, and possession of a controlled substance (cocaine).

Following a complaint about a check that was stolen, altered and deposited, a man was charged with larceny, criminal attempt at larceny, and forgery.

After a traffic stop for going straight in the “left turn only” lane on Post Road West at Riverside Avenue, a man was charged with 2 counts of failure to appear, based on active re-arrest warrants in Bridgeport and Fairfield.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations 11 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: `
  • Unsafe passing: 1
  • Failure to comply with passing on the right side rules: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1

An extreme case of unsafe passing.

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Speaking still of police: They may soon be called to the corner of Post Road West and Riverside Avenue (see above) — not for failure to turn properly, but for this accident that is waiting to happen:

(Photo/Ken Warren)

Ken Warren — who took the photo — says, “I can loan them a level if they need it.”

They do.

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The Westport Public Schools will offer free, confidential cardiac screening for students.

The voluntary event 14-point screener and EKG screen can identify risk factors for sudden cardiac arrest.

In A Heartbeat — a Connecticut nonprofit — will provide the screenings October 4 (3 to 7:30 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria). Parents will receive EKG results within 2 weeks. Click here to register.

Volunteers are needed for medical and non-medical duties. Email mike@inaheartbeat.org to help.

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“06880” shies away from “rankings” stories.

They’re clickbait, and often based on arbitrary criteria. Besides, if (for example) our school system is #1 one year, and #2 the next, people push the panic button and wonder what the hell is wrong.

So I was about to delete the “World Atlas” rankings of “13 Small Towns in CT That Were Ranked Among US Favorites.”

But then I read the writeup. It’s bizarrely interesting. “World Atlas” writes:

There are many waterfront towns in Connecticut — and then there is Westport. This Connecticut treasure boasts the most ocean waterfront in Connecticut. So if you are looking for a blue-space gem, complete with refreshing breezes and beaches, look no further.

And it is not just about the oceanfront area. Westport also boasts the largest riverfront in the state. Aside from the serene waterfront vistas that define Westport and its sand-fringed beaches, Westport, unknown to many, is a bibliophile’s dream destination. It plays host to the Westport Library, for instance, the only 5-star library in the state.

Aside from this idyllic, one-of-a-kind community gem, you will love to spend an afternoon (or an evening) strolling through Westport’s Library Riverwalk and Garden, a stunning walkway that runs along the scenic Saugatuck River.

Here’s the photo that ran with the story. (Hat tip: Richard Stein)

(Photo courtesy of Miro Vrlik Photography)

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The first event of the second season for Club 203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — is next Wednesday (September 20, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Toquet Hall).

Called “Reconnect, Renew & Karaoke Too,” it’s a chance to meet old friends, make new ones, and sing along.

Snacks are available ($1 to $3). The Westport Book Shop provides popcorn for all. (Parents can head over to the Book Shop for a “sip and chat” with artist Maj Kalfus). Click here to register.

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One of the fall’s best events is Push Against Cancer.

It’s also one of the most strenuous.

And most worthwhile.

The 14th annual PAC takes place Sunday, October 15 at Staples High School’s Jinny Parker Field.

The all-fitness-level/all-ages event begins at 9 a.m. There are 2 registration types. A 40-minute family-friendly pushup event challenges individuals or groups to do as many push-ups as possible in 40 minutes. The contenders division is a competitive 1-hour pushup contest. Championship belts go to the male and female who complete the most pushups in an hour.

All proceeds benefit children with serious illnesses and their family members through The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. Click here to register or donate, and for more information.

A small part of the Push Against Cancer.

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Sorelle Gallery’s new exhibit showcases Connecticut artist Carol Young.

Her work explores America’s rural and coastal landscape, in energetic, vibrant and nostalgic ways.

Her paintings are on view from tomorrow (September 15) through the 24th. Carol Young’s original paintings will be on view through Sunday, September 24th. Click here for more information. Works by Carol Young

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Totney Benson spotted this the other day:

(Photo/Totney Benson)

She writes: “A young man assembled these horseshoe crab carcasses today on the beach near the eastern end of Compo Beach. It’s molting season!”

And to the young carcass assembler: Smile! Your carcasses are today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

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And finally … Larry Chance, the leader of the classic doo-wop group the Earls — died last week in Florida. He was 82, and suffered from lung cancer. Click here for a full obituary.

(Remember: “06880” relies on reader’s contributions! Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Local business, Police

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Roundup: Deer, Alaska, Trump …

Posted on October 6, 2022 | 12 comments

A deer in distress has been wandering around the Long Lots Lane/Keene Road area.

Tangled in what looks like a badminton net, its gaunt appearance suggests it cannot see to forage for food.

Residents who spot the deer should call Westport Animal Control (203-341-5076) pr Wildlife in Crisis (203-544-9913). They are aware of the situation, and are ready to help.

Ruth Ayles, who sent this photo — which she saw on Facebook — reminds residents to properly dispose of balloons (or skip them all together).

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You’ve probably seen the ads for ABC and Hulu’s new drama “Alaska Daily,” which debuts tonight.

They’re hard to miss.

But all the marketing for the Hilary Swank show neglect to mention Gabe Sherman’s contributions.

The Westport native is a key writer on “Alaska Daily.” He’s collaborating with Tom McCarthy, who executive produced a show based on Sherman’s book about Fox News, “The Loudest Voice.” For a rave preview of the series, click here.

In addition to this TV project, Sherman is a regular writer for Vanity  Fair.

Gabe Sherman

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Elections loom in a month. Westport’s League of Women Voters is ready.

They want you to be, too.

They want everyone to know about Vote411.org, It’s a national information center. Type in your address, and get all the voting information you need.

On November 2 (7 p.m., Westport Library Trefz Forum and Zoom), the LWV sponsors a candidates’ debate. Included are Senate District 26 hopefuls Toni Boucher and Ceci Maher, House District 136 (Alma Sarelli, Jonathan Steinberg), and House District 143 (Nicole Hampton, Dominique Johnson).

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Speaking of politics: Check out the latest “Cross Examining History” podcast (link below).

Host Talmage Boston — a 1972 Staples High School graduate — interviews Peter Baker and Susan Glasser about their new book about “The Divider,” about Donald Trump.

The entire series, in fact, is worth hearing. Boston examines American history and leading books, through in-depth and entertaining interviews.

That’s only one of Boston’s many talents. He’s a commercial trial and appellate litigator in Dallas, a Texas Monthly “Super Lawyer” with a sideline as a writer, on topics as diverse as baseball history and Teddy Roosevelt.

 

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There’s something new at Old Mill Grocery: tables.

Three handsome, sturdy tables now welcome customers to sit inside. The Hillspoint Road spot continues to attract a steady stream of guests.

As OMG transitions to fall, regular dinner specials are an added attraction.

Old Mill Grocery tables. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Westport’s Representative Town Meeting is seeking candidates to fill the vacancy created by the passing of Arline Gertzoff. The vacancy must be filled by a registered voter residing in RTM District 3.  No party affiliation is required, as Westport’s RTM is non-partisan.  The term expires November 28, 2023.

Residents of RTM District 3 interested in being considered to fill the vacancy should send a resume by October 14 to JDunkerton@westportct.gov.

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Wait! The Remarkable Theater drive-in movie season is not yet over!

They’ve just added another film. It’s tomorrow night — and it’s the 1941 Disney kids’ classic “Dumbo.”

The Imperial Avenue parking lot opens at 5:45 p.m. for tailgating. The show begins at 6:45. Click here for tickets.

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Everyone talks about historic preservation in Westport.

But — as homes and buildings as old as 200 years, and as new as 20, fall to the wrecking ball — what are our greatest protection needs?

The Westport Historic District Commission recently received a Historic Preservation Enhancement Grant from the State Historic Preservation Office.

Funds will be used to hire a consultant to prepare a town “Preservation Plan.” It will identify and prioritize the greatest areas of need for historic preservation.

The plan will also will help establish and prioritize more Local Historic Districts and Local Historic Designations.

Properties within a Local Historic District have a higher degree of protection. The HDC must approve an application for alteration to a historic structure, as well as any new construction within a district.

Gorham Avenue is one of Westport’s Historic Districts.

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Push Against Cancer is a family affair.

Jessica and Keith Larit’s daughters Emma, Leah and Katie wanted to do something special for the kids of the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. Their idea: a “Kids Helping Kids” bake sale.

On October 16 (Staples High School, 9 a.m.), everyone attending the 13th annual Push Against Cancer can do push-ups for pledges — and then reward themselves with tasty treats.

Katie says, “I enjoy helping because all kids deserve to have fun at camp.”

Emma adds, “I hope we can raise enough money to send hundreds of kids and their families to camp to have fun.”

Click here for more information on the Push Against Cancer.

Andrew Berman (red shirt), CEO and founder of Push Against Cancer, with
Emma, Leah and Katie Larit, and their parents Keith and Jessica. The sign refers to this year’s event, which will surpass $1 million raised in 13 years.

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“The Afro-Semitic Experience” is the intriguing title of the next Y’s Women meeting.

In 1998 Dr. David Chevan, professor of music at Southern Connecticut State University and Hartford native Warren Byrd co-founded a 6-piece group of Jewish American and African American musicians. The Afro-Semitic Experience has performed, recorded and taught together ever since.

On October 10 (Greens Farms Church. 10:45 a.m.), they’ll share stories and songs, and discuss their conviction that people of different faiths, races and beliefs can come together with music to celebrate and build community.

Click here for more information.

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“From the Pen to the Knife” is MoCA Westport’s new exhibit. A free opening reception is set for October 15 (5 to 7 p.m.).

The collection is by artist 90-year-old Marian Christy. She creates innovative watercolors using only palette knives and puddles of paint — no drawing or brushes. Click here for information.

One of Marian Christy’s nearly 300 works, exhibited soon at MoCA Westport.

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Westport Community Gardens director — and superb nature photographer — Lou Weinberg sends this superb “Westport … Naturally” image:

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

Lou notes: “The magical honeybee is not just a great pollinator. It is also an acrobat, sitting out the rain vertically on glass!”

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And finally … on this date in 1927, “The Jazz Singer” — the first full-length “talkie” (sound) movie premiered. The site was Warner Bros.’ flagship New York City theater.

Wikipedia notes: “In keeping with the film’s theme of a conflict within a Jewish family, the film premiered after sunset on the eve of the Yom Kippur holiday.”

Among the many notable performances in the movie: Al Jolson’s performance of “Mammy.” Though he wore blackface, as other entertainers in the era did, he was known as a strong advocate for racial justice, particularly on Broadway.

(“06880” is your source for all kinds of info. Please click here to support this blog, and keep it coming!)

 

 

 

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Posted in Beach, Local politics, Real estate, Restaurants

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Westporters Push Against Cancer

Posted on June 11, 2018 | 3 comments

The Levitt Pavilion was packed yesterday — with push-up people.

The view from the Levitt Pavilion stage.

Hundreds of men, women and kids — from super-jacked to usually sedentary — did as many push-ups as they could in an hour.

First Selectman Jim Marpe banged out his. So did Chief of Police Foti Koskinas. And Paul Newman’s grandson.

Chief of Police Foti Koskinas and Push Against Cancer founder Andy Berman.

Which was fitting, because all the money raised goes to the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, the fantastic getaway for boys and girls with cancer and other serious diseases. It was founded, of course, by Westport’s own Paul Newman.

The 9th annual Push Against Cancer raised well over $120,000 — a record. That makes nearly $500,000 since the event began.

Congrats to founder and mastermind Andy Berman. To the many police and firefighters who helped make it happen.

And, of course, to everyone who participated — and feels very, very sore today.

(Hat tip: photographers Sabine Foreman, Andrew Kindt, Adam Vengrow)

3 Comments

Posted in Children, Organizations, People, Sports

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Pic Of The Day #49

Posted on June 4, 2017 | 1 comment

Hundreds gathered — and hundreds more participated — in today’s 8th annual Push Against Cancer for Kids at the Levitt Pavilion. The event was a fundraiser for the Hole in the Wall Gang Camps. (Photo/Joey Bairaktaris)

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Posted in Organizations, Pic of the Day, Places

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Raise Funds — And Upper-Body Strength — For Kids

Posted on May 6, 2017 | 2 comments

Westporters know that every day is different at the Levitt Pavilion.

One night there’s a rock group. The next night, a military band. Then comes a comedian, followed by Klezmer musicians. It’s Ed Sullivan on steroids.

But on Sunday morning, June 4 (10:30 to 11:30), the Levitt stage will be taken over by regular people of all ages.

Doing push-ups.

It’s the 8th annual Push Against Cancer for Kids. Individually and in teams, everyone is invited to bang out as many push-ups as possible.

Last year’s Push Against Cancer drew a wide variety of ages and sizes …

The only catch: You have to be sponsored. Friends, family members, colleagues — all pledge money, based on how many push-ups you can do.

All proceeds go to the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, the program for children facing severe medical challenges.

An anonymous donor will match all funds raised by everyone under 23 years old (up to $25,000).

… and both genders.

Paul Newman founded the Hole in the Wall Gang camp nearly 30 years ago. This year, Westport-based Newman’s Own Foundation is helping out.

The Westport and Danbury Police Departments are all in too.

Opening ceremonies begin at 10 a.m. A Hole in the Wall Gang camper, now in remission from cancer, will deliver an inspiring speech.

DJ Sean McKee — aka Big Daddy — will motivate the push-up participants. He has a great reason to help: He’s a 2-time cancer survivor.

Westport Police Chief Foti Koskinas (5th from left) and his entire force are strong supporters of the Push Against Cancer.

Last year’s event drew over 400 people. They raised $79,000 for the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp.

Organizer Andy Berman’s goal this year is $100,000. The cost of a week at the camp is $2,500 — though all services are free to campers and their families. So Berman hopes to raise enough money for 40 kids.

How many push-ups will you contribute to the cause?

To register, or for more information, click here. Questions? Email andy@mentalgritfitness.com 

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Posted in Categories, Entertainment, Organizations, People, Sports

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