Tag Archives: Robin Tauck

Roundup: Sephora, Dogs, Nathan Lane …

Posted on September 26, 2025 | 11 comments

Sephora is coming to Westport.

But not quite yet.

The multinational retailer of beauty and personal care products — famous for letting customers test products before buying — will move into “Elm & Main” (formerly known as Brooks Corner) downtown.

They’ll open at the end of 2027 or early 2028. A mere 2 years from now.

Not the Westport store. This Sephora is on 5th Avenue in New York.

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It’s (almost) that time of year.

Starting next Wednesday (October 1), dogs are allowed back on Compo Beach.

With a few caveats.

  • They are prohibited from the pavilion, playground and walkways.
  • All dogs must be leashed everywhere, except in the off-leash area of south of the pavilion (which includes South Beach).
  • You are required by law (and common decency) to pick up your dog’s poop.

The dogs-at-the-beach regulations are in effect through March 31. Violators can be fined $77.

And remember: Dogs are not permitted on town athletic fields or playgrounds at any time. They are welcome — leashed — in surrounding areas.

Happy days are here again! (Photo/Dan Johnson)

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Speaking of dogs: Uh-oh. Looks like we missed National Dogs in Politics Day. It was Tuesday.

The annual event commemorates the September 23, 1952 speech by Richard Nixon. Running for vice president with Dwight Eisenhower, he defended himself in a speech against accusations of campaign finance wrongdoing by mentioning his cocker spaniel, Checkers.

Westport’s “animal muse” Cat Malkin, and her dog Yogi Bear, did not forget the day. They visited a couple of politicians — from both parties — and he released a statement.

Yogi Bear said: “I’m not here for your votes. I’m here to spread love, kindness, and fuzziness wherever I go, especially if there’s a treat involved!

“As we go into the campaign season, let’s make Westport the kindest (and most treat-filled) town in the land! I invite you to join us, dogs, as we come together to unite the country in love, kindness, and the right to bark.”

Yogi Bear with Republican 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker …

… and Democratic 1st selectman candidate Kevin Christie. (Photos/Cat Malkin)

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A few tickets remain — but probably not for long — for the Westport Country Playhouse’s fundraiser, honoring Nathan Lane, on Saturday, October 4.

Broadway talents who have appeared with the star, including host Danny Burstein, will celebrate his career.

They will also salute productions that have been staged at the Playhouse in the 95 seasons since its founding in 1931.

Anne Keefe, former Playhouse co-artistic director, will be feted too. She’ll receive the 2025 Playhouse Leadership Award.

Lane and Keefe are longtime friends — and friends of the WCP.

The 7 p.m. curtain includes a live auction, and a 9 p.m. after-party in the Lucille Lortel White Barn.  The pre-show reception is already sold out.

For tickets and more information, click here or call 203-227-4177.

Nathan Lane

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Peter Greenberg — America’s premier travel news journalist, an Emmy Award-winning investigative investigative reporter and producer, who has appeared on every major TV network and in every national publication — brought his insights and experience to the Westport Library last night.

The Y’s Men of Westport-Weston hosted the event, which drew a crowd of hundreds. He was joined in conversation by longtime friend and fellow world traveler Allen Swerdlowe, a Y’s Men member.

Peter Greenberg (left) and Allen Swerdlowe, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Susan Garment)

Before the talk Robin Tauck hosted a small dinner for Greenberg, at nearby Massi Co restaurant. A 3rd-generation member of the family whose name is synonymous with global travel, she has known Greenberg for decades, and been on industry panels and at conferences with him around the world.

Robin Tauck and Peter Greenberg.

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TAP Strength is all about helping people feel more confident and capable in their bodies. A new program supports an important group: neurodivergent teens and young adults.

The next event in their “Effortless Effort” speaker series is October 14 (6 to 7 p.m., 180 Post Road East). at its Post Road East studio. It’s a conversation between TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Chelsea Elkind and Lauren Rosenblum, founders of Westport-based NeuroMind. They’ve helped TAP design a program that is inclusive, supportive, and grounded in real-world needs.

To RSVP or for more information, email info@tapstrength.com.

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The 6th annual (and always popular) Artists Collective of Westport trunk show is October 5 (11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Jesup Green lower parking lot by the Westport Library).

More than 30 diverse artists will display their work — in and around their cars. The day includes live music, and food from Gruel Britannia.

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Earlier this year, he Westport Community Theater presented “Words from the Front Lines” at Town Hall.

Many Westporters learned about it the show — a multi-media presentation of the correspondences of real people, in real time, affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine — too late to attend.

It’s being shown again: this Sunday (September 28, 2 p.m.), at the Ridgefield Library. The event is free. Click here for details, and to register.

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The heavy equipment keeps on coming, for the Sherwood Mill Pond tidal gates and pedestrian path renovation project.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

The photo above is from the Old Mill parking lot. It’s crowded with construction vehicles — and parking has always been tight for residents.

Visitors can park in the Sherwood Mill Pond Preserve on Hillspoint Road.

Or at Compo. It’s a nice stroll, on the new sidewalk!

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The Westport-Weston Probate Court is mourning the death of former chief clerk Shirley DeLuca. She died September 13 at Norwalk Hospital, of natural causes. She was 89.

Probate Court Judge Lisa Wexler says: “Shirley will be remembered by all who knew her as loyal, devoted, bright, hardworking and kind.

“She had unfailing patience for the countless bereaved and vulnerable people who entered Probate Court. Taking a seat by Shirley’s desk, one could pour out one’s heart to Shirley, and she would promptly help solve the problem.

“Generations of local practitioners learned their craft from Shirley, including me. For over 30 years Shirley served our community with love, humility and grace.”

She is survived by her husband Harold and son Glenn. She was predeceased by her son Harold III.

Services are private. Condolences may be sent to Westport- Weston Probate Court, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880. All letters will be forwarded to the family.

Shirley DeLuca

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Today’s “06880” feature photo is one of our coolest ever.

And most colorful.

Clarence Hayes captured this bumblebee, sipping goldenrod nectar.

Save the bees!

(Photo/Clarence Hayes)

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And finally … Olivia Newton-John was born today, 77 years ago. The highest-selling Australian female artist of all time died in 2022, after battling breast cancer.

(We honestly love you when you click here to support your hyper-local blog. Well, we love you always. But especially then.)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Library, Local business, Local politics, Obituaries, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Rye Ridge Changes, Henry Wynne Runs, Compo Cars Crash …

Posted on June 23, 2024 | 27 comments

For decades, Oscar’s was a fixture on Main Street.

When Lee Papageorge died in 2016, Westporters mourned the loss of a friend — and a great deli owner.

A year later, there was excitement when Rye Ridge Deli opened in that space.

Now, it’s changed hands.

Rye Ridge’s Westport location was sold to new owners in February. They have operated since, with a 4-month agreement to use the Rye Ridge name.

That’s ended. The new name is 159 Main.

Rye Ridge’s 2 other locations — in Stamford and Rye Brook, New York — remain open under that name.

(Photo/Steven Goldstein)

We hope the new owners will keep the mural on the back wall. Dating back to the 1980s, it shows a group of Oscar’s regulars — and Lee Papageorge.

A Rye Ridge waiter looks at Lee Papageorge, longtime Oscar’s owner. The mural was restored by Rye Ridge Deli. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Henry Wynne continues to run toward the Olympics.

The 2013 Staples High School, 2017 University of Virginia graduate, and holder of many Connecticut and collegiate running records, finished third in the semi-final heat of the 1500 meters at the Olympic trials yesterday, at the University of Oregon. He ran a season-best 3:34.40.

That qualifies him for tomorrow’s (Monday) finals (8:47 p.m. EDT; NBC and Peacock) — and a spot on the US track team that will compete at the Olympics next month in Paris.

Also yesterday, another Westport athlete fell just short of her Olympic goals.

Annam Olasewere competed in the 50 and 100 meter freestyle trials in Indianapolis, and reached the semifinal of the former.

She’s got a fantastic future. A rising senior at Staples, who competes year-round for Chelsea Piers Athletic Club, she’s already committed to Stanford University for the 2025-26 school year.

Next stop: the 2028 Olympics, just down the California coast, in Los Angeles.

Annam Olasewere

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Compo Beach residents are used to drivers speeding down Bradley Street, and blowing past the stop sign at Danbury Avenue.

But they were stunned today as a car driven by a teenage boy, with another teen as his passenger, raced along Compo Road South, roared onto Bradley without stopping, then passed several vehicles in the other lane on its way to the beach.

Without stopping at Danbury Avenue, it turned left onto Compo Beach Road, slammed against a car driving past, drove off and continued into the beach.

The car that was hit …

The young driver was apprehended quickly. No one seemed injured.

But if anyone had been walking or biking on Bradley or Compo Beach Road, it could have been much, much worse.

Be careful out there — everyone!

… and the vehicle that hit it. (Photos/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of the beach, here’s a new trend: Cars parking on the Hillspoint Road bridge over I-95.

Of the 6 cars in this photo, 4 are from out of state.

At first, it seems odd.

But apparently it’s the new way to avoid paying the daily out-of-town rate at Compo.

Signs warn that vehicles parked on Hillspoint between Schlaet’s Point and Old Mill, and at Sherwood Mill Pond Preserve, must have beach stickers.

There are no such signs this far north.

So folks park on the bridge, and hoof it to the beach.

On the one hand, it’s great that Compo is so attractive to out-of-towners.

And they should probably be applauded for creativity.

On the other hand …

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And speaking of dangerous behaviors (see above), Rob Jackson writes:

“I live in Saugatuck Shores, and drive to and from downtown on Route 136.

“With the onset of warmer weather, the electric scooter parade begins. There are some adults, but the majority are young teenagers.

“There is no bike lane, so these kids ride in the narrow strip between the traffic and the grass. It’s terrifying to see these young people, sans helmets, at times with headphones or earbuds, speeding along at 15-20 mph with cars, trucks, etc. blowing past a foot or two away. (The 35 mph speed limit seems to be only a suggestion)

“No helmets is downright lunacy. But the small diameter tires on these scooters (as opposed to a much larger bicycle tire) are an invitation for the first small rock to send the riding flying, possibly into a passing vehicle.

“I invite any parent to come watch their child navigate this roadway on their electric scooter. This isn’t Compo Beach or Saugatuck Island. It is a disaster in the making.”

Fun … until it isn’t.

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The Westport Weston Family YMCA marked its 100th annual meeting last week with a number of awards.

Honorees included Diane Dubovy Benke (Lee J. Edelstein Volunteer of the Year0; Robin Tauck (Legacy & Impact Award), and Kate Murray and Andrew Berkowitz (Youths of he Year).

Employee Recognition Awards went to James Leask, maintenance technician (Above & Beyond); Victoria Walters, lifeguard and swim instructor (Commitment to Mission); Alejandro Flores, maintenance technician (Relationship Champion), and Tina Turechek, digital marking manager (Rookie of the Year).

Robin Tauck (right) with Westport Y CEO Anjali McCormick.

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The Westport Library will be buzzing this afternoon.

The Hive — Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito’s new community-building project — brings an intriguing music-making event to the Trefz Forum stage (today, Sunday, 2 p.m.).

It’s called a “LID Session.” The acronym stands for “Lay It Down.”

Chiu — a world-renowned pianist, who lived for many years in Westport — has always been fascinated by the way pianos connects people of diverse ages, backgrounds and experiences.

He has invited local people to take a chance, and “Lay It Down” for an audience of fellow community members. The 6 who will perform range in age from 12 to 94.

“The playing doesn’t have to be perfect, and the audience doesn’t need to know how to play,” Chiu says.

“The shared experience creates connection for everyone.

Chiu will kick things by playing a short piece. Six guest pianists then take their turn on the Library’s special Yamaha Disklavier, which captures the performance for posterity.

To close, Chiu will lead a community conversation. (For more information, click here.)

Frederic Chiu, at the Westport Library.

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A good crowd headed to the Westport Observatory yesterday, for the start of ARRL Field Day.

The Westport Astronomical Society hosted the local meeting of a nationwide ham radio event.

Attendees young and old heard from ham operators, and got on the air themselves.

ARRL Field Day continues today (Sunday) through 8 p.m. at the observatory on 182 Bayberry Lane. For more information, click here.

Coleytown Middle School student Dylan Rosen learns about ham radio yesterday from Larry Reed (AB1JC), at the Westport Observatory. Dylan contacted a ham operator in Iowa — and the hams in Westport stopped to applaud. PS: Check out Dylan’s shirt!

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Sure, “Westport … Naturally” featured a turtle the other day.

But this shot — taken yesterday morning, at the Longshore stone wall on Compo Road South — is stop-the-presses-worthy.

Quite an interesting looking character. Worth waiting for, even if he does take his time walking the golf course.

(Photo/Peter Armstrong)

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And finally … on this date in 1713, French residents of Acadia were given one year to declare allegiance to Britain or leave Nova Scotia.

They did not pledge their allegiance. The result: a vibrant Cajun culture in Louisiana.

(“06880” wants everyone to be safe. That way we can all enjoy our town — and this hyper-local blog. And if you get a chance, please consider supporting us too. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Police, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS, YMCA

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Roundup: Pops Concert, Pink Aid, Pequot Library …

Posted on May 24, 2023 | 8 comments

One of Westport’s newest — but quick-selling-out — traditions is the Westport Public Schools’ Pops Concert.

The Levitt Pavilion event — featuring the Staples High School Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble, Choralaires and other small ensembles — returns Friday, June 9 (7 p.m.). The host is Westport’s own music and media maestro, David Pogue.

Tickets will be available at staplesmusic.org beginning at 9 a.m. on May 31. They’re first-come, first-served — and free! (A donation of $15 per ticket is suggested, to help offset the concert’s production costs.)

The Levitt lawn opens at 5:30 p.m. BYO chair — but food trucks will be there for picnickers.

2022 Pops Concert. (Photo/Allison Ginzburg)

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The use of automated cameras to enforce speed limit and red light violations in Connecticut moved closer to reality yesterday.

The House voted 104-46 in favor. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Enforcement would be limited to school zones, pedestrian safety zones and other locations approved by the Office of State Traffic Administration. Speeders would have to go at least 10 miles per hour over the limit to get an automated ticket.

Fines would not surpass $50 for a first offense, $75 for a second offense. Revenues would go to municipalities, to be used for traffic-related expenses.

Click here for the full story, on Connecticut Mirror.

Red light traffic camera.

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Pulitzer Prize finalist Nicholas Dawidoff is the main attraction tomorrow night at the Westport Library

He’ll join former Assistant US Attorney Althea Seaborn to talk about his book The Other Side of Prospect: A Story of Violence, Injustice, and the American City (Thursday, May 25, 7 p.m.).

He will be in conversation with Norwalk Community College Professor and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Althea Seaborn.

Dawidoff spent 8 years researching and writing in his hometown of New Haven. Urban decay, white flight and redlining helped contribute to the transformation of Newhallville. Dawidoff makes these symptoms of “racist neglect” vividly clear.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

Nicholas Dawidoff

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Breast cancer is no laughing matter.

But Pink Aid — the organization offering support and financial assistance to patients during treatment, and their families — will benefit from a night of comedy next month.

The event is June 1 (7 p.m., Chabad of Westport). Featured comedians include Cody Marino, Beau McDowell, Andrew Ginsburg and Nick Scopoletti. Tickets ($75 each) include 2 drinks, popcorn and candy. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Twenty soon-to-graduate high school rowers were honored for their hard work, persistence and commitment Monday, by the Saugatuck Rowing Club. Nine live in Westport.

Saugatuck Rowing Club seniors from Staples High School (from left): Elisabeth Chadwick, Janna Moore, Dylan Halky, Wyatt Dodge, Jesse Herman, Luke Miller, Cooper Weyers, and Vincent Penna all attend Staples. Andrew Bacro (not pictured) attends the Pierrepont School,

The seniors and other teammates competed last weekend to qualify for Young Nationals in Sarasota, Florida in June.

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First Five Guys closed (for renovations?).

Now there’s a “For Lease” sign in front of Shake Shack.

Maybe Big Top or Chubby Lane’s can come back …

(Hat tip: Bruce Schneider)

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Robin Tauck returned to the University of Vermont on Sunday. This time, the 1977 graduate gave the commencement address at graduation ceremonies for the Grossman School of Business.

Robin is a longtime Westporter. She is a 3rd-generation oo-owner and former president and CEO of Tauck Inc., the luxury travel company started by her grandfather in 1925, and headquartered for many years here.

She is a business graduate of UVM, Stanford University’s Executive Business Program, and the University of Cambridge Leaders Sustainability Program.

She was recently honored at the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame in Hartford, for her career in “Global Impact.”

Robin Tauck

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The Pequot Library is not actually in Westport.

But with so many local connections, it might as well be.

For example, Westporter Coke Anne Wilcox is president of the board of trustees. Caroline Calder serves as vice president, while Belinda Shepard and Richard “Deej” Webb are both trustees.

Westport poet laureate/Westport Writers’ Workshop instructor Jessie McEntee handles marketing and communications at Pequot.

Alex Heekin works in development. Jane Manners is the beloved children’s Librarian. Leslie Mahtani, also a librarian, works at the circulation desk.

Though the Pequot Library receives 20% of its annual funding from the town of Fairfield, it must raise the other 80% on its own.

One method: an annual Southport Garden Stroll. This year’s event — a behind-closed-gates peek at 8 stunning outdoor space — is June 2. Click here for tickets, and more information.

One more Westport tie-in: TV host/author/lifestyle expert/realtor Mar Jennings hosts the June 1 Champagne & Canapé kickoff party.

Pequot Library.

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A new farm dinner — an “intimate, bourbon-inspired” event — has been added to the Wakeman Town Farm menu.

It’s July 12. But, WTF notes, it makes a great Fathers Day gift.

Chef Lamour Workman promises that each course will be paired with a specialty bourbon, created by Bridgeport’s Fifth State Distillery.

Tickets are $125 each. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Longtime Westporter Sophia Makowski, most recently of Wallingford, died peacefully on Saturday.

The 9th child of 10, and a “second mother” to several family members, Sophie is remembered for her “incredible endurance, priceless humor, sharp wit, and unending support of her loved ones.” Loved by all who met her.

Sophia’s funeral is tomorrow (Thursday, May 25, 11 a.m., Assumption Church). Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery, Greens Farms Road.

Click here to leave online condolences. Contributions in Sophia’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Sophia Makowski

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Thanksgiving is a solid 6 months away.

So this turkey figured it was safe to strut his stuff.

Luisa Francoeur took his “Westport … Naturally” photo on Broadview Road, during her morning walk.

(Photo/Luisa Francoeur)

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And finally … Linda Lewis died earlier this month, near London. She was 72.

I never heard of her. But the New York Times took note. She was “a critically acclaimed soul singer and songwriter whose pyrotechnic voice propelled four Top 10 singles as a solo artist in her native Britain and led to work as a backup vocalist on acclaimed albums by stars like David Bowie, Cat Stevens and Rod Stewart.”

The newspaper added: “Ms. Lewis drew raves for her soaring five-octave vocal range and impressed listeners with her genre-hopping instincts, drawing from folk, R&B, rock, reggae, pop and — with more than a nudge from label executives — disco.”

Click here for the full obituary. And enjoy (as I did) this sampling of her work:

(If you get a ticket to the Westport Pops Concert, thank “06880.” You can say thanks with a contribution, too — just click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Robin Tauck/Y Challenge, Narcan, Pop-Up Sale …

Posted on May 6, 2023 | 4 comments

Robin Tauck and the Westport Weston Family YMCA are teaming up again.

The former trustee, benefactor of the Robin Tauck Wellness Center and longtime executive with her family’s international travel company celebrates the Y’s 100-year anniversary with a $100,000 matching challenge.

From now through June 30, Robin will match every dollar donated at $500 and above. Funds will go toward new programs for seniors, adults, and youth that improve health outcomes.

They include fitness and well-being for arthritis, Parkinson’s, cancer management and other diseases, and special strength and conditioning program for youths.

Funds will also benefit the Y’s financial assistance program, serving under-resourced families and those in need.

Donors who contribute $1,000 or more will enjoy a special summer event.

Fore more details and to participate in the matching grant challenge, click here. 

Questions? Email kguthrie@westporty.org

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Opioid abuse is rampant everywhere — including Westport.

And in the event of an overdose, everyone can help.

A free overdose awareness and Narcan training session is set for next Friday (May 12, 4 to 5 p.m., Positive Directions, 90 Post Road West).

Topics include how and when to administer Narcan, and prevention resources and messages to share.

Registration is required; click here.

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A pre-Mothers Day pop-up shopping event This Friday (May 12, 12-4 p.m., Yoga45, 201 Main Street) benefits A Better Chance of Westport.

A portion of sales will go to the local organization, which for 20 years has offered educational opportunities to academically gifted young men of color.

It’s a great way to shop local, at a women-owned store, for Mom — and for a great cause!

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Among many other things, Verso Studios and the Westport Library are becoming a film hub for movie buffs throughout the area.

On May 19 (7 p.m., the Lundberg Family Foundation Masters Film Series launches, to tie it all together.

The first event is the Connecticut premiere of the documentary “Heaven Stood Still: The Incarnations of Willy DeVille.” Area residents Chris Frantz and Crispin Cioe are featured in the film.

A Q&A after the showing with the filmmakers, including the filmmakers; Frantz and Cioe, and DeVille’s niece.

The Lundberg Family Foundation Masters Film Series will showcase films and filmmakers. It bridges independent production and established innovation. Special screenings coupled with master classes will “educate and inspire on modes of production and storytelling craft, as well as technical, philosophical, and historical aspects.”

Master classes on June 14 and 21 will focus on techniques to convert a film concept into a compelling documentary story.

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Brown University 1968 Bernicestine McLeod Bailey adds another degree later this month. The IT leader and longtime advocate for inclusion of alumni of color  will receive an honorary degree — doctor of humane letters — at the commencement ceremony.

Following her career as an IBM systems engineer, she established McLeod Associates, a pioneering minority-owned IT consulting firm.

McLeod Bailey is a founding member of TEAM Westport, and former board member of the Westport Library and Fairfield County’s Community Foundation.

At Brown, she is a longtime member of the Pembroke Center Advisory Council and served as founding chair of its Archives Committee with a focus on elevating gender history. She has established funds to support undergraduate diversity and initiatives highlighting Black history at the university.

McLeod Bailey served as a Brown trustee from 2001 to 2007, and is an honorary lifetime member of the President’s Advisory Council on Diversity. She also received the Brown Bear Award, the Brown Alumni Association’s highest volunteer honor.

McLeod Bailey and her husband, Brown alumnus Harold Bailey Jr., are the parents of Brown alumni Aisha (Class of 1999) and Harold III (Class of 2003).

Bernicestine McLeod Bailey

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Last night’s Pic of the Day showed tulips blooming beautifully at the Minute Man monument.

How did they get there?

Andrew Colabella — RTM member and all-things-Westport booster — planted 100 bulbs.

Another 400 are coming this fall, he promises.

Andrew Colabella, with a bulb at the Minute Man monument. (Photo/Jimmy Izzo)

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Former Westporter Kristin Erickson died April 25 in New Fairfield. She was 62.

She studied at Northfield Mount Hermon, Denison and Southern Connecticut State Universities, and a earned a master’s degree in social work from Fordham University.

As a hospice social worker, Kristin had “a remarkable capacity to show up for people and their families in very dark moments.” She was passionate about death with dignity, access to mental health resources, and caring for senior dogs and dogs with high needs. She was recently certified as a death doula.

Kristin and her former husband Dan Carpenter raised 3 children in Fairfield. They were her pride and joy. Her family says, “she was a creative, goofy, and above all, deeply loving mother. She also filled roles as a cool aunt, second mom to her kid’s friends, and dedicated dog mom.”

Kristin spent the past years between West Palm Beach and New Fairfield with her partner Ken Green and his dogs. She spent a lot of time with her mom, Sue, as well. Kristin had recently become certified as a death doula and had continued to hold space for people at the end of their lives.

Kristin is survived by her parents, Susan and George Erickson; children Nell, Guthrie and Aria Carpenter; siblings Jon and Martha Erickson and their partners Jayne and Bones; nieces Riley, Mullein, Romy, and Faye, and many lifelong friends.

n lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Compassion & Choices, a non-profit Kristin was passionate about.

Kristin Erickson

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There’s always something different to see from Grace Salmon Park.

Patricia McMahon framed this “Westport … Naturally shot beautifully, as spring comes to the popular Saugatuck River spot:

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … in honor of Bernicestine McLeod Bailey’s honorary degree from Brown (story above), here is the world’s greatest college fight song.

Sorry, Michigan and Notre Dame. But this one’s clearly the best.

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Local business, Obituaries, YMCA

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Westport Steps Up For Afghan Refugees

Posted on September 15, 2021 | Comments Off on Westport Steps Up For Afghan Refugees

Six years ago the Syrian crisis moved longtime Westporter John McGeehan to help lead a coalition of churches, synagogues and mosques to help resettle a family in Norwalk.

They pioneered, with Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services, a model for community co-sponsorship. Local residents provide broad shoulders and deep pockets. The model has been replicated in more than 50 Connecticut towns and cities.

The swift Taliban conquest of Afghanistan sparked a national conversation about American efforts to resettle Afghan citizens who aided American forces, during our 20-year conflict.

An Afghan father and daughter, resettled in Connecticut.

Once again, as Connecticut prepares to welcome up to 700 refugees, McGeehan is hard at work. So is the Westport Rotary Club, and individuals like Robin Tauck.

For the past 3 years Robin — a Westporter, member of the worldwide tour company family, and sponsor of Greens Farms Academy’s World Perspectives program — and her daughter Colleen Leth have, through their non-profit foundation, worked with IRIS to sponsor refugees.

As the Afghan crisis unfolded, she thought of the Rotary Club. They’re busy with Saturday’s Lobsterfest fundraiser. But — true to their mission of worldwide service — they’ve taken on the added task of co-sponsoring a donation drive.

Next Tuesday (September 21) and from 12 to 3 p.m. on the weekends of September 25-26, October 2-3, 9-10 and 15-16, Greens Farms Congregational Church will accept drop-offs of winter coats, raincoats, and boots for adults, teenagers and children; school supplies and backpacks; new toiletries; cleaning and household supplies, and small appliances. “Boxed and labeled” is appreciated. Furniture and other clothing is not needed.

The donation drive is important. But it’s just the start.

Resettling refugees comes at a time when non-profits have been hit hard by the pandemic. Meanwhile, affordable rental stock is hard to find.

Each family of 2 to 4 needs an apartment near public transportation, language training, cultural assistance, women’s help, school assimilation, and $20,000 for the first year. Click here to donate.

Westport-Weston Interfaith Refugee Settlement is doing its part. The coalition — the United Methodist Church, Temple Israel, Greens Farms Congregational church, the Religious Society of friends, Saugatuck Congregational Church, and 15 Westport families identifying as a Muslim community — are working with IRIS to house and assist a family in East Norwalk.

Email jmcgeehan1956@gmail.com for more inforrmation.

https://vimeo.com/597892180

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“06880” Podcast: Robin Tauck

Posted on August 24, 2021 | 1 comment

Robin Tauck is a 40-year Westporter. Her grandfather helped develop the modern tour business — and his Tauck Tours company was headquartered in Westport for decades.

Robin is the 3rd generation to lead Tauck, and has helped make it a global brand. She’s been particularly involved in cultural heritage, sustainable tourism and philanthropy.

In Westport — where she lives on Old Mill Beach — she has been a leading voice for environmental protection.

Robin joined me the other day at the Westport Library, for “06880: The Podcast.” We talked about Tauck’s history, the travel industry today, and of course, what it all means for Westport.

Click here to watch our wide-ranging conversation.

Robin Tauck

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From Blight House To Bright Spot: Green Honors For Hillspoint Home

Posted on October 3, 2019 | 23 comments

For years, only one thing marred the view from Old Mill Road and Elvira Mae’s, down Hillspoint Road. There — sandwiched between handsome beach homes and the beach itself — sat a blight house.

Unkempt and untended, it looked out of place. And dangerous.

When Robin Tauck bought the property, and an adjacent lot, she wanted to maintain the traditional beach community vibe. But she’s also an ardent environmentalist.

Her vision for the blight house was to maintain the same footprint for minimal impact, while creating a model for future homes.

Working with architect Michael Greenberg and TecKnow, the Bedford Square-based company that combines automation technology with green energy products, she built an innovative “guest cottage.” (Her own, similarly designed home, is next door.)

The new Hillspoint Road home.

227 Hillspoint Road uses sustainable building practices and innovative technology. Solar and battery storage is optimized, so the house is run almost entirely off the grid.

It meets many of the standards for a Green Building Award: rehabilitation, energy efficiency, innovation, conservation, sustainability, and modeling for the future.

So the other day — around the same time the United Nations hosted its Climate Action Summit — Governor Ned Lamont and Congressman Jim Himes were in town. So was Albert Gore III, from Tesla (one of the companies TecKnow works with), environmental leaders from groups like Sustainable Westport and Save the Sound, and all 3 selectmen.

Robin Tauck and Governor Ned Lamont, on the steps of 227 Hillspoint Road.

They presented Tauck, Greenberg and TecKnow with a Green Building Award. It recognizes this project, for its contribution to sustainability.

The honor signifies one more step on Westport’s path to being a net zero community, by 2050.

And it also shows that a small, blighted house need not be replaced by a bigger, more energy-sapping one.

Especially at such a well-known, beloved and lovely spot by the shore.

Phil Levieff of TecKnow, Albert Gore III of Tesla, and Robin Tauck. (Photos/JC Martin)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, People, Real estate

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Broad Horizons At Wakeman Town Farm

Posted on August 6, 2019 | Comments Off on Broad Horizons At Wakeman Town Farm

It always feels good to attend a fundraiser for a local organization. (And there are many fundraisers and groups in Westport.)

You eat and drink well. You’re entertained, and can win cool auction and raffle items. Plus, you’re contributing to a worthy cause.

However, you don’t always know exactly where your money goes.

If you attended last fall’s Harvest Fest at Wakeman Town Farm though, read on. (Keep reading if you didn’t go too, of course.)

Some of those funds went to support Horizons at Sacred Heart University. The tuition-free academic enrichment program serves low-income Bridgeport students in kindergarten through 8th grade. It’s one of 60 national chapters.

Thanks to Harvest Fest, more than 170 youngsters came to WTF last week. They learned about life on a farm, and got hands-on experiences with animals and plants.

Learning about life at Wakeman Town Farm.

On Friday, they had a huge pizza party. Volunteers fired up the new wood oven, donated by Robin Tauck (with stone from the Gault Family, and a gas grill by the Wormser family). Transportation was underwritten by Bankwell Westport.

But none of it would have been possible without help from Harvest Fest.

Remember that the next time you head to a fundraiser. The catered food and fancy wine is wonderful. Tickets to a Yankees Stadium suite, or a vacation at someone’s Caribbean home, is nice.

But the true joy comes when your money is put to good, real, important use.

Every kid loves pizza. Every counselor worries about the time. (Photos/Robert Osgood)

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Posted in Children, Environment, Local business, Organizations, People

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Robin Tauck Reports On Syrian Refugees

Posted on May 30, 2016 | 4 comments

The Tauck family is known for many things. Their eponymous company — now in its 4th generation — pioneered high-end group travel, heli-skiing and small-boat river cruises. In Westport — where many family members live — they’ve been quite generous, from renovating National Hall to helping preserve Long Island Sound. A foundation is deeply involved in aiding Bridgeport.

Robin Tauck is a travel industry leader. Her interests range from eco-tourism to helping nations and regions use travel as an economic engine.

She’s nearing the end of a 50-day odyssey in Italy and Greece. With her proximity to Turkey, Syria and the Middle East, she got a first-hand look at the mass migration of refugees seeking asylum in Europe.

Two of the many children in a Lesbos Island refugee camp.

Two of the many children in a Lesbos Island refugee camp.

On Lesbos Island, Robin — an outgoing woman who loves to learn — talked to as many people as she could: refugees, Save the Children workers, and the Lesbos mayor who, she says, “deserves a peace prize.”

Greece has already moved almost a million people from that tiny island just 6 miles off Turkey, through Athens, and on into Europe. Only 4,000 refugees remain.

Little cafes did their best to feed and warm the new arrivals. The island is lovely, Robin says, “but the people are even more beautiful. You cannot imagine how much they did.”

At the height of the smuggling operation, nearly 10,000 people a day arrived in crammed Zodiacs. (By contrast, Ellis Island — set up as an immigration center — handled 11,000 a day at its peak.) Save the Children — which moved its headquarters recently from Westport to Fairfield — now has 10 small offices in the area.

A hand-made sign thanks the many volunteers.

A hand-made sign thanks the many volunteers.

Hundreds of unaccompanied minor children were separated from parents. The kids are traumatized — and not allowed to leave the island yet.

Save the Children is focusing on them. Robin’s new friend Vasili Sofiadellis is teaching computer and coding skills. Youngsters learn English and Greek too.

“It’s not bad. But it’s not pretty,” Robin says.

A pregnant mother survived the trip to Greece. Robin Tauck holds her 7-month-old -- who weighs only as much as a normal 2-month-old.

A pregnant mother survived the trip to Greece. Robin Tauck holds her 7-month-old — who weighs only as much as a normal 2-month-old.

The island is in the midst of cleanup. Broken boats, and enormous piles of hundreds and thousands of life jackets — “each one a life story,” she notes — are being moved from the beaches.

Robin Tauck (right) surveys some of the hundreds of thousands of abandoned life jackets.

Robin Tauck (right) surveys some of the hundreds of thousands of abandoned life jackets.

Robin also reports that Westporter Barbara Innamorati brought toys from Westport to Italy. They were delivered to a refugee camp on Lesbos, housing 880 people from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Robin explains that Lesbos is ready to move from the “R” word (refugees) to the “T” word (tourism). Hotels are vacant; charter aircraft have stopped arriving. Holland America docked one cruise line during the crisis.

Robin told the mayor the Tauck story — including how her family emigrated to the US through Ellis Island. He said, “maybe one day some of our 800,000 refugees that made it to Europe will start a new family and new story, like yours did.”

“God bless the Greeks,” Robin says. Lesbos, and the entire country — one of the world’s top 10 tourist destinations, with dozens of World Heritage Sites, beautiful island and warm hospitality — is “waiting for us to return.”

(Yesterday’s New York Times Travel section also covered the tourist scene on Lesbos, and the rest of Greece. Click here to read that story.)

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Posted in Economy, Local business, Organizations, People, Politics

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New Pearl Splashes Into Longshore

Posted on February 21, 2016 | 16 comments

A pearl is a beautiful jewel.

Longshore is one of Westport’s crown jewels.

So it’s particularly fitting that Pearl is the name of Longshore’s new restaurant. And that oysters and clams figure prominently on the menu.

Pearl at Longshore — the full name — opens officially tomorrow (Monday, February 22). But a soft opening last night showed that — more than a year after Splash closed — Westport’s dining and social scene have taken an impressive step forward.

A new entrance for a new restaurant.

A new entrance for a new restaurant.

Last night — in the beautiful new dining room, next to the handsome bar, as the wait staff bustled around — lead owner Marc Backon and his wife Lois described the long journey that transformed rundown Splash into a gorgeous Pearl.

It was Halloween, 2014. Dining at Tarantino, they learned from then-general manager Antonio Ninivaggi that after 18 years, Splash had shut its doors (and the adjacent, once-quite-popular Patio Bar). They were saddened. They’d eaten there often, and both daughters’ 1st jobs were at Splash.

It was not an immediate “let’s do it!” moment. Yet gradually the Backons decided to give Westport back its waterfront gem.

They had no background in restaurants. But Marc has a long career in business, Lois is in banking — and they are smart, committed Westporters.

Slowly, they put together a group of 25 or so investors, mostly from here. The list also included Ninivaggi (who had moved on to Osianna in Fairfield). They hired a crack design team, led by Bilal Barakat, and renowned executive chef Michael Hazen (Bartaco, Barcelona).

The stunning bar is made from recycled glass. Behind it is recycled wood.

The stunning bar is made from recycled glass. Behind it is recycled wood.

The journey was tough. The building — including the kitchen and food storage areas — had deteriorated significantly. A couple of deadlines were missed.

But the wait was worth it. With seating for 55 inside, 70 outside and 18 at the bar; chic, contemporary decor that includes paintings by local artists and a display with Robin Tauck’s Sherwood Mill Pond books, plus a menu that ranges from locally raised oysters to boar, it’s bound to create Westport’s newest buzz.

Locally harvested Hummock Island oysters are a special treat.

Locally harvested Hummock Island oysters are a special treat.

The patio is not yet finished. That’s okay. It will be ready this summer.

Hey, it takes 3 to 7 years for an oyster to produce a perfect pearl.

This one is ready after just 1.

The town of Westport owns the Pearl at Longshore property, and rents it to operators. Among the diners at last night's soft opening were 2 town officials who helped oversee the renovation from Splash to Pearl were (far left) former Parks and Recreation chair Steve Haberstroh, and (right) 1st Selectman Jim Marpe.

The town of Westport owns the Pearl at Longshore property, and rents it to operators. Among the diners at last night’s soft opening were 3 town officials who helped oversee the renovation from Splash to Pearl: (far left) Parks and Recreation chair Charlie Haberstroh, (near left) Parks and Rec director Jennifer Fava, and (right) 1st Selectman Jim Marpe.

(Pearl at Longshore will be open 7 days a week starting tomorrow [Monday, February 22] for dinner only. Lunch — and a golfers’ menu — will be added later.)

In summer, the view of Long Island Sound will be spectacular. In winter, the Longshore Skating Rink shimmered in the background.

In summer, the view of Long Island Sound will be spectacular. Last night, the Longshore Skating Rink shimmered in the background.

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