Tag Archives: Senior Center

Roundup: Downtown Parking, Tesla Cybertruck, Yarn Bomber …

Posted on April 16, 2024 | 7 comments

Today’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast is very timely.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker offers details about the downtown parking plan, including process, options and current status. Click below to listen to the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston presentation:

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April Cunningham’s Westport roots run deep.

Her maiden name is Carusone. Her father was a Westport police officer. Her grandfather James Dorta worked for the town.

She tells “06880” that she fell on hard times. Both she and her husband are on disability. She has severe arthritis, while he has cataracts and needs surgery.

“We’re out of food and money, and have no transportation,” she says.

On Spotfund she wrote: “We have less than $100, and we’re exhausted. We have been surviving on one meal a day, making sure our dog has food and water. We’ve literally got no food in the room for ourselves.

“Applying for help takes time. We’re reaching out to churches and whatever benefits we can get. All we are trying to do is stay afloat and get into affordable senior housing ASAP, and get stable.

“We’re reaching out hoping and praying for help in this difficult situation. All donations will be used to keep us with a roof over our heads and fed, clothes washed, and non food items like toiletries. We need a vehicle obviously, but for now the basic necessities.”

Click here for the Spotfund link.

April Carusone’s dog.

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A Tesla Cybertruck — first announced in 2012, introduced as a concept vehicle in 2019, scheduled for production in 2021, and finally delivered in late November 2023 with a 4-year wait list — has finally been spotted here.

Alert “06880” readers noticed one at both Classic Cars in Southport, and Old Mill Beach.

We received only one photo, however, so we’re not sure if there are two Cybertrucks in the area, or just one.

What’s all the buzz about? Check it out:

(Photo/Karen Como)

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Mia and McKenzie Didio accomplished a lot at Staples High School.

The twins members of the Class of 2022 captained the basketball and lacrosse teams, and won FCIAC and state championships in soccer.

Both now play lacrosse at the University of Delaware.

And they’re poised to accomplish even more.

The Didio women will represent the Puerto Rico lacrosse team this summer, at the U20 World Games in Hong Kong.

Their maternal grandmother is Puerto Rican. Though they have not been submerged in that culture, they look forward to learning more through their participation.

They know their selection means a lot to their mother and grandmother.

“Being able to represent them in a new capacity is so exciting,” McKenzie says. “It’s something bigger than ourselves.”

Mia tore her ACL after she was selected. Her coaches asked her to take on a manager’s role. She happily agreed.

The Didios have started a GoFundMe to raise money to help fund the Puerto Rico lacrosse program. Click here to help. Click here to read more, from the University of Delaware.

McKenzie and Mia Dido.

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Exactly 4 years ago this month, the yarn bomber first struck.

In those first desperate weeks of the pandemic, someone began draping trees with multi-colored, soothing blankets of yarn.

Compo Beach was first. Then came fire headquarters, Bedford Square, the Senior Center … all over town.

Eventually, the disease eased. Westporters went back to their “normal” lives. The yarn faded, and curled. Residents removed the “bombs,” as anonymously as they’d been placed.

But now, it seems, the yard bomber has returned.

Molly Alger sends this photo, from the Senior Center:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

It’s fresh, clean, and in the signature style of the original yarn bomber.

It looks great. And we’re happy to have the decoration — so long as it has nothing to do with COVID.

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Post-Easter news: Wakeman Town Farm has 12 chicks in need of sponsors.

Sponsorship includes naming rights for 1 year, and a certificate. Funds support the sustainability center’s operations. Click here for more information.

Wakeman Farm chickens. (Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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David Hazeltine — the most recorded contemporary jazz pianist of our time (35 CDs as a leader, hundreds more as a sideman) — returns to Jazz at the Post this Thursday (April 18, shows at 7:30 and 8;45 p.m., dinner service at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $20 music cover, $15 for veterans and students).

He brings his long-time musical partner, trombonist Steve Davis.

Also in the house: bassist Boots Maleson, drummer Steve Johns and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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Today, “Westport … Naturally” takes a break from spring flowers. We turn the feature over to a snowy egret, perched delicately yet decisively at Ned Dimes Marina.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … if you’re thinking of sponsoring a chick (story above), let’s goose things along:

(Ain’t nobody here at “06880” Central but us bloggers. If you enjoy our work, please support us with a tax-deductible donation. Just click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Entertainment, Local politics, Transportation

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Unsung Hero #328

Posted on March 27, 2024 | 7 comments

Margaret Pinheiro Smith retired earlier this month, after 24 years as administrative assistant at Westport’s Department of Human Services.

Today, her colleagues and friends are honoring her at a luncheon.

Today too, “06880” recognizes Margaret as this week’s Unsung Hero.

Margaret Pinheiro Smith

Human Services director Elaine Daignault says: “Margaret started working for the department in 1999. During her many years here, she has gone above and beyond to serve Westport residents, while selflessly supporting colleagues and Human Services partners.

“A key contributor across Town Hall, the Senior Center and Toquet Hall, Margaret was loved for her empathetic and kind nature.

“She was the perfect person to greet residents entering our offices. She always had a smile and made sure people felt seen and heard, regardless of the reason for their visit.

“Margaret has become such a fixture in the department that many calls from clients were just friendly check-ins to see how she was doing, and to provide an update on their lives. She was the go-to gal for information, an ear, or a favor.

“When weather threatened our most vulnerable residents, Margaret went into full crisis support mode, updating our registries and calling those who live alone or have special needs. she maintained our ‘We Do Walkways’ list for seniors needing outdoor work. When a senior resident needed a quick snow clearing to get to a doctor’s appointment, Margaret immediately ‘ran out for lunch’ to shovel them out.

“Once, a senior called because she needed bottled water. True to Margaret’s spirit, she went to the grocery store to deliver a supply.

“Another time, a senior accidentally ordered 10 gallons of milk instead of one. Margaret promptly offered to pick up the extras, and helped distribute them to other households and food pantries before they expired.

“She does these things not because they are in her job description (they certainly are not!), but because she genuinely cares for others without exception.

Margaret Pinheiro Smith at her desk. She spent plenty of time working outside the office too.

“During Hurricane Sandy, Margaret (along with several other dedicated employees) ran the emergency shelter for 10 straight days. I am not sure she went home to rest during that time. Instead, she stayed on site to ensure the check-in, food service and nighttime procedures went smoothly, especially for our senior population.

“Margaret always ran ahead of the team to check venues for warming and cooling centers, bringing her cell and laptop so she would not miss a call at the front desk.

“Margaret was a huge asset and workhorse during the pandemic. She was the first to arrive cheerfully at the office each morning. Constantly thinking about what we could do to help ease the intense uncertainty of the moment, she helped coordinate the distribution of masks, COVID tests and food with her social services and emergency management colleagues. She also spent time at distribution sites to help coordinate meal distributions.

“In addition to her ‘day job, Margaret was a staple at the special weekend and evening events held by the Friends of the Senior Center. She selflessly dedicated her time to help run these events, and dazzled guests with her good nature and willingness to pitch in.

“Margaret was a Human Services ‘den mom’ – always looking out for the department to ensure everyone had what they needed, while adding special touches that make our department so beloved.

“Unafraid of hard work, she would lift heavy boxes, wipe down conference room tables, vacuum the office, de-ice the staff refrigerator and stock the staff kitchenette. No one ever had to ask Margaret to do something to support her team; she would see a need and attend to the task. She is a natural caregiver to others.

Human Services director Elaine Daignault (2nd from left), Margaret Pinheiro Smith (3rd from left), and the “Room 200 crew.”

“As the primary contact for the Westport Woman’s Club food pantry, Margaret called in orders. The generous food pantry team delivered food to Town Hall, where she helped unload groceries for clients to pick up. When recipients arrived, she helped load the food into their cars, to ensure anonymity of those needing food resources.

“Margaret dedicated 2 1/2 decades to the town. We will miss her daily presence, but what is unique about her is that her service was more than a job. It was her calling. Her dedication to her friends, colleagues and residents will not stop due to retirement. She will continue to serve and spread her light. It is in her nature to look after those she cares about.

Margaret Pinheiro Smith, with Larry Delaney. Like many clients, he became a great friend.

“On a personal level, I am so blessed to call Margaret a treasured friend and trusted colleague.

“We both joined Human Services in 1999. We have literally ‘grown up’ under the guidance and support of long-time Westport icons like Barbara Butler and Sue Pfister, among many others, including Terry Giegengack, Fran Reynolds, and countless other mentors who made our department what it is today.

Margaret is one of the last ‘old timers’ from those tremendous years of growth and development. She taught me so much about selfless leadership and humble service to others. We will miss seeing her at Town Hall every day, but her positive energy has forever changed us, and we know she is just a call away when needed.”

(Thanks to Lynn Goldberg, for nominating Margaret Pinheiro Smith as this week’s Unsung Hero. If you know a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com.)

(Unsung Hero is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!

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Roundup: Absentee Ballots, Leaf Dumping, Comedy …

Posted on November 1, 2023 | 7 comments

Election Day is Tuesday (November 7).

To be ready, the town clerk’s office (Room 105, Town Hall) will be open this Saturday (November 4), from 8:30 to 11 a.m., to issue absentee ballots.

They will also be available Monday (November 6), until 4:30 p.m.

All absentee ballots must be returned to the Town Clerk’s office no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day.

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Speaking of Tuesday’s election:

Yesterday’s “06880” story on Board of Education write-in candidate Jill Dillon noted one particular challenge: educating voters on how to do it.

Several readers wondered how.

There are 2 steps: fill in bubble 5E, 6E or 7E (under “Board of Education”; then write in “Jill Dillon.” (“Dillon,” “J Dillon” and “Jill D” are also acceptable.)

Sample ballot for a write-in candidate.

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It’s leaf season. And time to remind Westporters that dumping leaves and debris in a wetland or watercourse is illegal.

Several leaf disposal options are available to Westport residents. One is to compost leaves in the back yard within a fenced area or a composting receptacle, located at least 20 feet away from any wetland or watercourse. Click here for details.

Another option for Westport residents with a valid sticker: Deliver collected leaves to the yard waste site at 180 Bayberry Lane, behind the Aspetuck Health District (no plastic bags).

The yard waste site is open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.  Also, the Department of Public Works begins curbside leaf collection on November 6.

For more information about leaf removal or the yard waste site, call the Department of Public Works: 203-341-1120. For more information on wetlands or composting, call the Conservation Department: 203-341-1170.

Compost, don’t dump!

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Before leaving Halloween in the now-November dust: Here’s one last look back at last night, from Gorham Avenue:

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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Everyone needs to laugh.

Especially these days.

This weekend, the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport offers 3 evenings of 4 one-act comedies.

The UU Players present the uplifting shows on Friday and Saturday, November 3 and 4, 7:30 p.m.) and Sunday, November 5 (2 p.m.). The suggested donation of $20 will be collected at the door.

“Miss You” explores the tangled webs we weave with the aid of telephones. “Baby Food” and “Crazy Eights” highlight the extreme and bizarre lengths people go to to get what they want. “Sure Thing” proves that connections are all about timing.

For more information, click here.

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It just got easier for seniors to use technology.

A $10,000 grant from AT&T to Friends of the Westport Center for Senior Activities will be used purchase connected devices, and to support technology instruction programs (including workshops conducted by high school students).

For example, new iPads will allow the Senior Center to offer regular classes focusing on computer skills like navigating the internet, scam awareness, video conferencing with family members, and more.

Displaying a new tablet (front row, from left):  Diane Bosch and Marsha Darmory, co-presidents of Friends of the Senior Center; rear:  Harry Carey, AT&T director of external affairs’ Wendy Petty, Senior Center director; State Representative Jonathan Steinberg.

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Speaking of the Senior Center: Here’s how a few folks looked yesterday:

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

No, it’s not their normal look. It was Halloween, and they posed behind the pumpkin contest entrants. (The winner was #2 (hidden), courtesy of Jason Wilson.

It just goes to show: You’re never too old to dress up for this holiday.

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Tickets go on sale today for Coleytown Company’s music revue, “Pure Imagination”. Songs from Broadway Junior musicals include “Seussical,” “Shrek The Musical,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “Frozen.”

Launching a new format this fall, the group of professionals leading the production broadened the cast to include students in all three grades (6-8). Veterans and newcomers bring their singing and dancing talents to the stage.

Performances are Thursday, November 16 (6 p.m.) and Friday, November 17 (7 p.m.). For more information and tickets, click here.

Getting ready for “Pure Imagination.”

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Westport Book Shop hosts a children’s book reading and signing of “Bradford’s Walk” == with author Denis O’Neill and illustrator Cyrus Quadland this Saturday (November 4, 10:30 a.m.).

As any parent of a Bradford fan knows, the tale follows the adventures of a lovable brown dog, set against the backdrop of, yes, Westport.  It captures the simple pleasures of daily walks that everyone relates to.

Denis is a Westport native, and has lived here for 6 decades.

. Space is limited. RSVP by email or by phone (203-349-5141).

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Speaking of children: Every kid needs a pet.

Every adult too.

This Saturday (November 4, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.), William Pitt Sotheby’s (199 Post Road East hosts an event to benefit Westport Animal Shelter Advocates, PAWS and Hopalong Hollow Rabbit Rescue.

There will be available-for-adoption furry friends to meet (no on-site adoptions, though).

There’s also a raffle with donations from restaurants, merchants and animal service providers (plus New York Yankees merch). Food trucks will feed hungry humans.

For additional information, call 203 557 0361.

One of the dogs that will be at William Pitt Sotheby’s on Saturday.

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The Short Cuts Film Festival returns to the Westport Library on Thursday, November 9 (7 p.m.).

Six short narrative films will be screened, on the state-of-the-art 18-foot video wall.

Curated from the Tribeca Film Festival, Short Cuts showcases current trends in filmmaking. Selected films are a diverse cross-section of stories and perspectives, including one animated short.

“Fourteen years ago, when we began Short Cuts, it was difficult to find films directed by women, people of color, or LGBTQ communities,” says producer Nancy Diamond.

“Now filmmakers of all genders, cultures and life choices abound. Short Cuts brings these award-winning short films to you.” Click here for details on the 6 films.

Following the screenings, Olivia Shapiro, Let Liv writer and actor, will join Diamond on-stage for a conversation. Questions will be taken from the audience.

Tickets are $26.50; click here to purchase. Refreshments and popcorn will be served.

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It’s just a coincidence, but Aspetuck Land Trust’s next “Lunch and Learn” — the noontime webinar series — is about food.

Expert forager and author Russ Cohen hosts “Wild Plants I Have Known and Eaten” (November 10, noon to 1:30 p.m.).

He’ll featuring at least 2 dozen species of native edible wild plants suitable for adding to your landscape, or nibbling on when you find them. Click here for more information, and to register.

Russ Cohen, with wild plants.

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Remember Saturday’s beautiful, midsummer-like weather?

Pat Auber was at Compo Beach (with hordes of others), to enjoy it.

Also having fun: many unleashed dogs (in the leash-only area). She writes:

“This Animal Control officer policed the area. As he said, ‘it’s like putting my finger in a dike.’

“This is not the off-leash area!” a security officer explains. (Photo/Pat Auber)

“Dog owners: We don’t love your dogs off leash sniffing our toes and eating our food, like you seem to think we do.

“Westport is kind enough to offer a leash off area. Respect it! So thank you to this security gentleman, who managed this and made for a pleasant experience for all.”

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“06880” has posted plenty of images of Sherwood Mill Pond, from many angles.

But today’s “Westport … Naturally” offers a perspective we rarely see:

(Photo/Clarence Hayes)

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And finally … Aaron Spears, a Grammy-nominated drummer who played with Usher, Ariana Grande and many other major pop stars, died recently. He was 47.

Click here for a full obituary.

(If you enjoy our daily Roundups, please know: The stories are short, but they take a ton of effort. Please support our work, with a tax-deductible contribution. Click here — and thank you!)

 

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Local business, Local politics

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Roundup: Turkey Quake, Tailgate Party, Casket …

Posted on February 11, 2023 | 4 comments

George and Libya Kocadag moved to Westport years ago, from Turkey. Many Westporters know him as one of the friendliest members of the very friendly Trader Joe’s staff. She shares her wonderful baked goods, yogurt and hummus with everyone (those great raspberry cookies at Layla’s Falafel are hers).

Libya’s family lives in Samandag, Turkey, not far from the center of the recent earthquake. In the aftermath of the devastation — with lives lost and houses destroyed — the Kocadags are asking for help.

She set up a GoFundMe page. The goal is $20,000. All money will go directly to Samandag. Click here to contribute. (Hat tip: Danielle Teplica)

A small part of the devastation in Turkey and Syria.

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Whether you’re rooting for Kansas City or Philadelphia, or have no idea who’s playing: Everyone is invited to tomorrow’s Super Bowl tailgate party (Sunday, February 12, 12:30 to 4 p.m.).

It’s at the Senior Center — but all ages are welcome. The afternoon includes hot dogs, spring rolls, chips and cake, and a guess-the-score contest.

Former director Sue Pfister will be honored, along with the state champion Staples High School girls soccer and boys lacrosse teams. The Staples cheerleaders will be there too.

The only thing missing: the game. Kickoff is 6:30 p.m. — 2 hours after the party ends.

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The Post Road East log pile has been an object of fascination and fear for drivers near Roseville Road.

It’s also the subject of litigation, brought by the town.

At least now there’s something interesting to look at, besides high towers that look like they could collapse and spill into the roadway.

Several colorful wood carvings recently appeared. Their back story is unknown.

And — like the log piles themselves — the saga continues.

(Photo and hat tip/Stacie Curran)

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Another odd Post Road East sight: a casket.

For a few weeks, it’s been spotted amid the “stuff” near Goodwill and the  Westport Tennis Club.

(Photo and hat tip: Eric Bosch)

The Post Road is not the prettiest street. But at least we’ve got some interesting things to see, as we drive by.

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Spiders and moths and wasps, oh my!

“Little Things Run the World” — and that’s the subject of the next Aspetuck Land Trust free seminar.

“Insects with Benefits: Pollination and Pest Control” is the sub-head of the Wednesday, February 15 event (1 to 4 p.m.).

ALT says: “Learn about the most important part of our web of life, and be inspired to make your yard more welcoming for them. Without our insects, the web of life comes apart. Love our spiders, moths and wasps from the comfort of your home.”

Click here to register, and for more information. (NOTE: The 3 previous sessions were recorded. All are available with registration.)

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Registration is now open for the CT Challenge. The July 29 bike ride — with distances of 10, 25, 40, 62, 100 and virtual — raises funds for the local non-profit Mission. They help 16.9 million cancer survivors in Connecticut and throughout the US rebuild, improve and prolong their lives through exercise, nutrition, mind-body health and community-building support programs.

Click here to register. Click here for more information on the CT Challenge.

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Staples High School offers courses in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Latin and Mandarin.

All will join in, to celebrate World Language Week. Among the events:

The cafeteria will serve themed dishes, and promote international cuisine.

Students are invited to wear t-shirts or sweatshirts supporting the language they’re studying (for example, sports teams, international universities, and souvenir shirts from abroad).

Music will play in a variety of languages before school, during the 5 minutes of passing time, and immediately after school ends.

Students will make morning announcements, in the languages they’re taking.

The library will display world language literature, art and more, and will host international karaoke and a trivia competition.

The “Connections” period will feature trivia games, video links, and basic conversational instruction.

¡Vamos!

Students studying Italian will celebrate World Language Week.

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Today’s intriguing “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Greens Farms, courtesy of Joanna Sierakowska. You never know …

(Photo/Jenna Sierakowska)

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And finally … the recent death from lung cancer of David Harris — the journalist who went to jail for refusing the draft during Vietnam, and encouraged others to do the same — brought to mind the song Joan Baez wrote for and about him. They were married at the time; he had just been sentenced to 3 years in prison. (Click here for a full obituary.)

(To celebrate World Language Week [story above], please consider a donation of euros, pounds, yuans — or dollars — to “06880.” Just click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Candlelight, Sue Pfister, Black Plastic …

Posted on December 17, 2022 | 6 comments

The Staples High School Music Department celebrated the holiday season last night with its 82nd annual Candlelight Concert.

It was stunning.

The choral symphonic and jazz ensembles awed the full auditorium with their voices and musicianship. The program — from the traditional, lovely “Sing We Noel” through the stunning “Nutcracker Suite,” rousing “Jubilate Deo” and clever production number, to the powerful “Home Alone Suite” and rousing “Hallelujah Chorus” finale — was both proof that our town’s young artists are very alive, quite well (and superbly well-trained), and that even in times of uncertainty and division, all can be right in Westport.

Thanks to all who produced and participated in last night’s Candlelight. Two more (sold-out) concerts continue today.

The “Sing We Noel” processional. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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It’s still hard to believe Sue Pfister is retiring.

The beloved Senior Center director has spent 36 years serving Westport with plenty of kindness, tons of care and tremendous competence.

The town gets a chance to say goodbye and share memories on Wednesday, December 28. An open house (1:30 to 4:30 p.m.) is set for her beloved Senior Center.

Can’t make it? Drop in virtually. Just click here; the passcode is “retirement.”

And once again: Thank you, Sue!

Sue Pfister

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Did you know that black plastic can’t be recycled?*

So what can you do?

Bring your washed, clean, black plastic takeout food containers (and matching lids) to the Westport Farmers’ Market the next 2 Thursdays (December 22 and 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, 7 Sylvan Lane).

Food containers will be used by Fridgeport Outdoor Food Pantry to repackage large trays of donated prepared foods into smaller portions for people facing food insecurity. Many recipients reuse the containers many times over.

The event is co-sponsored by Sustainable Westport and Food Rescue CT

*Why can’t black plastic be recycled? Optical sorting systems used to sort recycling cannot identify it as “plastic.” When black plastic is placed incorrectly with other items it contaminates the overall recycling stream reducing its value. In addition, black plastic has a hazardous level of toxins that increase in the recycling center. So whenever you can: Refuse or reuse black plastic!

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¡Felicidades! to José “Feliz Navidad” Feliciano and his wife Susan.

The longtime Weston residents are the proud grandparents of twin grandsons. Their daughter Melissa and her husband Charles announce the birth of Theodore “Theo” Jose and Beau William Erickson.

They arrived 5 weeks early, weighing 3.13 and 6.02 pounds respectively.

They’re home and thriving, with Theo coming home on his mother’s birthday.

José and Susan say: “The Feliciano and Erickson families are blessed, and thrilled beyond words. So many prayers offered by so many good and loving people … we are incredibly grateful.”

Proud grandparents Jose and Susan Feliciano.

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The bar for our Entitled Parkers feature is extremely high. Usually, someone hogging 2 spaces won’t make the cut. “06880” readers demand something even more egregious: 3 spaces perhaps, or a vehicle completely covering a sidewalk.

But this Very Important Person takes today’s (Trader Joe’s) cake.

He — and you know it’s a guy —

  • Takes not just 2 spots, but they’re both handicap reserved.
  • He doesn’t appear to have a handicap placard.
  • Just look at what he’s driving.

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Speaking of driving: We’re not sure how this car managed to get where it is — the grass near Cabin 1 at Longshore.

But it doesn’t hurt to remind everyone: Be careful out there.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

Andrew Colabella — who was driving (carefully) by — reports that the driver was okay.

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Westport Sunrise Rotary’s guest speaker yesterday was Lexi Shereshewsky.

Founder and Executive Director of the Azraq Education and Community Fund (formerly The Syria Fund) — a non-profit providing education programs and hands-on humanitarian aid to Syrian refugees and other vulnerable families living in Jordan — she’s no stranger to the group. Sunrise Rotary is a longtime supporter.

Lexi Shereshewsky and Rick Jaffe, past president of Westport Sunrise Rotary.

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Thursday was wet and windy.

But on Friday — yesterday morning — our Public Works crew was out early, cleaning Compo Beach.

It’s the kind of thing most people don’t notice, on a December weekday.

But Sunil Hirani did.  Here’s his photo:

(Photo/Sunil HIrani)

Thanks to all the often-unseen workers, who make this town what it is.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows Friday’s nasty weather, as seen at Compo Beach.

The weekend forecast is nicer: partly cloudy skies today, sunny tomorrow. Temperatures will be in the high 30s and low 40s.

It’s a great time to get your shopping done. Or head to the beach.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … we don’t have video of last night’s “Candlelight Concert” (copyright issues prevent its recording and posting).

But here’s a wonderful version of one of its centerpieces, performed by a community choral ensemble in South Carolina:

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Staples HS, Teenagers

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Roundup: Politics, Trees, Music …

Posted on October 19, 2022 | 2 comments

Candidates for State Senate and House seats squared off yesterday, at the Westport Library. The debate was sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce. Chamber director Matthew Mandell moderated.

Among the main topics: reproductive rights and affordable housing.

Candidates at yesterday’s Westport Library event. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Bob Weingarten reports on the latest tree-cutting: He estimates more than a dozen have been felled at 31 Turkey Hill Road South, “and more” to come.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Fall is in full force. But the Westport Farmers’ Market plows on in its summer location — the Imperial Avenue parking lot —  every Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

They’ll be there another month, through November 10.

In addition to vendors with seasonal vegetables and fruits, meat, milk, cheese, seafood, baked goods, prepared foods (plus knife, scissors and tool sharpening), the Farmers’ Market hosts different musicians each week.

Tomorrow (October 20), hear Picnic on the 4th of July. Guitars, banjo, harmonica, washboard and vocals offer “new grass” music – songs with a bluegrass twist. The band includes Westporters Louis Fuertes and Pat Blaufuss.

Picnic on the 4th of July band members (from left): Martin Daniels, Jeff Carroll, Pat Blaufuss, Louis Fuertes. (Photo /Lynda Carroll)

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Westport Country Playhouse has added a 5th play — the comedy of manners “The Cocktail Hour” by A. R. (Pete) Gurney, to its 2023 seaso

“Pete Gurney has been a Playhouse audience favorite for many decades,” says WCP artistic director Mark Lamos, who will direct the show.

“My long association and friendship with him, both at the Playhouse and Off-Broadway, makes me happy to be reunited with his work.”

For more information on the 2023 season, including tickets, click here.

Westport Country Playhouse (Photo/Lynn U. Miller)

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Several dozen Westporters received flu shots yesterday, at the Senior Center.

The event was sponsored by the Aspetuck Health District. The Fire Department’s Rescue 3 unit was on hand to help.

Getting ready for flu season. (Photo/Molly Alger)

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Sherwood Mill Pond presents ever-changing scenes — perfect for “Westport … Naturally.”

This morning, Matt Murray spotted egrets in the fog:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … Peter Tosh was born today in 1944. From 1963 to 1976 he, Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer were the heart of the reggae band the Wailers. He then became a successful solo artist. He was killed in 1987 during a home invasion, at age 42.

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Politics, Real estate, Westport Country Playhouse

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Photo Challenge #404

Posted on September 25, 2022 | 9 comments

Last week’s Photo Challenge drew the fewest number of guesses ever.

One.

That’s right — just one reader offered a stab at where the etching of a tree, with clasped hands underneath, hung. (Click here to see.)

Susan Iseman was the lone one. Fortunately, she was right. It’s at the Senior Center, on Imperial Avenue.

I know that many Senior Center-goers read “06880.” All I can guess is that in last Sunday’s beautiful weather, they were all out playing pickleball, taking walks, going to Mark Naftalin’s blues concert at the Library, or doing a zillion other things besides sitting around trying to figure out the Photo Challenge.

Perhaps this week’s will engage more readers. So if you know where in Westport you’d find this, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

(Here’s another challenge: Please support “06880.” Click here to help.)

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Photo Challenge #389

Posted on June 12, 2022 | 7 comments

Fred Born died.

Then his son donated a flagpole in his memory to the Senior Center.

A plaque at the base describes the longtime member as a “boatsman, machinist, story teller and Gentleman with a never-ending smile.”

It’s a wonderful plaque. However, no one ever sees it.

The only “06880” reader to correctly identify last week’s Photo Challenge was Susan Pfister. And she should know: She’s the director of the Senior Center. (Click here for the image; scroll down for the several wrong guesses.)

For this week’s challenge, you have to look up — not down. If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.

NOTE: It’s not obscure. You just have to know where to look.

(Photo/Sally Galan)

(“06880” relies entirely on reader donations. Please click here to help.)

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Roundup: Green Acre Teardown, Tax Help, Ukraine Aid …

Posted on March 24, 2022 | 13 comments

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Westport teardowns happen so often, they’re not news.

This one might be.

A 5,400-square foot, 5-bedroom, 4 1/2-bathroom 1930 Tudor at 36 Green Acre Lane — well known by visitors to nearby Haskins Preserve — will be demolished soon. A 180-day waiting period set by the Historic District Commission has expired.

Westport Journal reports that property was sold in 2020 for $2,570,000. 

36 Green Acre Lane will be demolished soon.

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Who you gonna believe?

The sign on Jersey Mike’s says “Permanently Closed.” A couple of screen shots on social media show the Westport location as “Temporarily Closed for Renovation.” The app and website list it along with all the others as open.

Meanwhile, the phone rings there, but no one answers.

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It’s late March. April 15 — Tax Day — is closer than you think.

Help is closer than you think too — at least, for preparing your forms.

No-cost, full-service tax preparation assistance is available, with special attention to seniors and low- to moderate-income households.

The program — offered by Westport’s Department of Human Services, through VITA/IRS volunteers — includes both personal counseling by appointment at Town Hall and the Senior Center, and virtually through a secure website.

Counseling at Town Hall is available Mondays (1 to 6 p.m.) and the Senior Center (Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursdays from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.). Appointments are required; call 860-590-8910.

Click here for the virtual option.

The free Tax Assistance Program is available to all individual filers regardless of income or age. Last year, more than 5,000 returns were prepared and filed – almost all electronically – by the counselor group that services Westport. Federal refunds totaling $4,500,000 were received by clients..

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Staples High School Class of 1972 graduates Tom McCann and his wife Mary-Jo Birtwell McCann live on Nantucket now.

But they’re helping Ukraine relief efforts. And they invite Westporters to participate.

For the past 10 days, Mary-Jo shopped and shipped for items to send to 2 refugee centers in Poland. Next week, Tom and 4 others from the island will head to those centers, to assist personally.

Financial support is needed for the mission. Venmo this link, or send a check to: Tom McCann, 35 Hummock Pond Road, Nantucket, MA 02554.

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Speaking of Ukraine: Steve Taranko reports that a recent shipment of tourniquets — donated by generous Westporters and others — has arrived overseas.

Unfortunately, they’re desperately needed.

Tourniquets in Ukraine. (Photo courtesy of Steve Taranko)

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Bob Knoebel — longtime Westport YMCA aquatics director and Water Rats coach — now lives in Idaho. The other day, he traveled east and visited with his own Staples High School swim coach from 51 years ago, Bruce Gardiner.

Bruce is retired, after a long career as director of admissions at Lehigh University. Bob posted a photo on Facebook, adding: “Thanking you properly for being a fantastic coach, and apologizing for the awkward, tongue-tied thank you I delivered at the banquet as team captain in 1971.”

Bob Knoebel (left) and Bruce Gardiner, at Lehigh University.

Bob also sends along an update on his godson Enrique, profiled 4 years ago on “06880”:

He’s graduating from Bates College in May with a double major in economics and Latin American studies, and landed a job at First Republic Bank in San Francisco.

In the Small World Department: He worked remotely from campus this year for native Westporters and Water Rats David and Danny Platow who are at a New York branch of First Republic.

Bob had nothing to do with it, though. Enrique was linked to them by his boss, after interning for her last summer in San Francisco.

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Staples just wrapped up a very successful World Language Week.

Each day began with music related to the Language of the Day — Spanish, French, German, Italian, Latin and Mandarin. Morning announcements (including the Pledge of Allegiance) were made by students, in the language of the day.

Language clubs raised awareness — and funds for less fortunate youngsters in other countries.

The Italian Club, for example, collected $400 for at-risk youths in Napoli. The club  also offered Italian pins, bracelets, lanyards and Italian goodie bags. Grazie! (Hat tip: Bruno Guiduli)

Italian Club members outside the Staples cafeteria, with goodies (from left): Luca Caniato, Bruno Guiduli, David Sedrak, Amanda Rowan, Maisy Weber, Caroline Motyl.

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In September, the Westport Unitarian Church high school youth group embarked on an intensive environmental initiative. The goal was to become more mindful of how everyday decisions profoundly affect the Earth.

That effort culminates next month in a trip to Alaska, to see the effects of climate change close up. Members hope to return both nourished by nature, and awakened to the realization that we live on an amazing planet that we often take for granted.

To help fund their trip, the youth group presents an “Afternoon of Music and Laughter.” It’s this Sunday (March 27, 2 p.m., both in-person at the Unitarian Church and via Zoom). The program includes vocal music, classical piano and guitar, comedy routines and more.

Tickets are $25 each. They’re available at the door, and online (click here).

Unitarian Church high school youth group.

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Thomas Howard, a well-respected economist, lifelong adventurer and Westport resident, died last week while mountaineering in the Adirondacks.  He was 63.

His family says, “Many will remember him for his deep morality, thoughtfulness, loving nature, intellectual capacity, generosity, and playful sense of humor.”

He was born in 1958 in Richmond, Virginia. At both the Highgate School in London and Hopkins School in New Haven he was an avid track and cross country runner, at one point setting the 10K record in Britain for his age group.

At Dartmouth College he studied math under John Kemeny. and became his teaching assistant. He completed an honors thesis exploring the equations and logic required to teach computers to talk. He earned a doctorate in economics from Yale University, where he expanded on an interest in econometrics and completed a dissertation on employment uncertainty under advisor Robert Shiller.

During his 40-plus year career Tom worked as a computer programmer for the Pentagon, a macroeconomist for Fuji Bank, and a consultant for Arthur D. Little and PIRA Energy. He was skilled in forecasting, econometrics, data analysis, and formulating options trading strategies. Other employers included Louis Dreyfus, Statoil and, most recently, the Department of Defense.

Tom was an accomplished mountaineer and hiker. He spent over 40 years climbing some of the most challenging mountains on the globe: ascending Mt. McKinley, Mt. Huascaran in Peru and Xixabangma Peak in the Himalayas, to name a few. He hiked the 273-mile Long Trail in Vermont and the entirety of the 2,000-mile Appalachian Trail, from Maine to Georgia. In October 2021 he crossed the entire White Mountain Presidential Range in one day. Tom aspired to climb the second-highest mountain on all 7 continents. Hw finished the first part of this journey when he scaled Mt. Kenya in the fall of 2021.

Tom is survived by his wife, Zhu Zhang Howard (Julie), and daughters Gwendolyn and Madison Howard. He met Julie while working in New York; they married in 1993, and moved to Westport in 1997. He is also survived by his siblings Margaret Paar of Niantic; James Elbert of Wallingford; Amy Howard Chase of New Rochelle, New York; Mary Howard of Branford; Martha Howard of Guilford, and Emily Howard of Washington, DC, plus many nieces and nephews.

Visitation hours at the Courtyard Marriott, 474 Main Street, Norwalk will be tomorrow (Friday, March 25, 5-8 p.m.). A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, (March 26, 11 a.m., St. Luke Church), and can be viewed via livestream. A reception will follow to celebrate his life. Masks are recommended.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in the name of Tom Howard to Search and Rescue of the Northern Adirondacks, benefitting search and rescue efforts in the Northern Adirondacks, or St, Luke Church.

Thomas Howard

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Today is pretty gray. Two days ago, dogs romped on Compo — as our “Westport … Naturally” feature shows. Their time is limited though. On April 1, they’re banned from the beach for 6 months.

(Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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And finally … in honor of Staples High’s World Language Week (story above), and the fundraising work of the school’s Italian Club, here’s a song everyone loves:

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Posted in Environment, Obituaries, Real estate, Restaurants, Sports, YMCA

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“06880” Podcast: Sue Pfister

Posted on February 22, 2022 | 1 comment

From the time she visited her grandmother in a nursing home, Sue Pfister felt drawn to older people. She earned a social work degree, and in 1986 interned at Westport’s Senior Center.

She’s been there ever since.

The other day, Sue — now its beloved director — traveled the short distance from the Senior Center to the Westport Library’s Verso Studios. We chatted about her career path, the Center’s journey through many stops to its current beautiful home, the Center today and tomorrow, demographic trends in town, and much more.

As always, I learned a lot from Sue. You will too. Just click here and scroll down, for the latest “06880” podcast.

Screenshot of Sue Pfister

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