Tag Archives: Sherwood Island connector

Roundup: DOT Landscaping, “06880” Blog Party, Michael Franti & Cimafunk …

Posted on July 14, 2025 | 2 comments

State Department of Transportation engineers have shared with Stina Sternberg Snow, and other neighbors, what the $400,000 landscaping plan looks like for the renovated maintenance garage off the nearby Sherwood Island Connector.

 

Click on or hover over to enlarge. The Sherwood Island Connector is at left; Post Road East is at top.

The area highlighted in red will be a turn lane into the new entrance (from the Connector). It will have an 8-foot privacy fence next to it.

The project will be finished in late 2026.

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The annual “06880″ party is just 3 days away.

And if you’re reading this: You’re invited!

This Thursday (July 17, 6 p.m.) is the day and time. The far end of Compo’s South Beach — away from the cannons, near the boat and kayak launch — is the place. (Still confused? See the aerial view below.)

The blue arrow marks the "06880" party spot.

The blue arrow marks the “06880” party spot.

Please bring your own food, beverages, beach chairs and blankets. (If you bring extras to share with others, we won’t say no). If you’ve got a folding table, we could use a few too 🙂

Then mix, mingle and enjoy the evening with the “06880″ crowd.

There’s no charge. It’s a “fun-raiser,” not a fundraiser. A “blog party” — the “06880” version of a block party.

See you on Thursday!

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Marie Gross woke up this morning a bear breaking up her bird feeders. on Kings Highway North.

(Photo/Marie Gross)

It then sauntered casually down the road, toward the cemetery.

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Michael Franti & Spearhead brought a message of love, hope, acceptance and positivity to the Levitt Pavilion yesterday. It was Franti’s third time at the open-air venue.

He engaged intimately with the audience on stage — and while performing as he walked around.

(Photo/Sean Bernand)

(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

Cimafunk was the opening act last nigh — and also high-energy. The musician’s funk and hip hop, with Cuban and Afro-Caribbean roots, got the crowd moving from the moment he stepped on stage.

(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

Backing up, on sax. (Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)

This week’s shows include Hopalong Andrew (Children’s Series; Tuesday, 7 p.m., free); I’m with Her, with Ken Pomeroy (Wednesday, July 16, 7 p.m.; ticketed); Nellie McKay Trio (Thursday, July 17, 7:30 p.m.; free), and Pete Muller & the Kindred Souls (Friday, July 18, 7:30 p.m.; free).

Click here for tickets — including the free shows — and more information.

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The Hive — Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito’s  cultural community-building collaboration — has launched a small-group series, at the Hive loft.

Each event will revolve around a music and arts theme, and include a conversation inspired by the arts. Beverages and small bites will be served.

The dates are July 23 (7:30-9:30 p.m.), July 27 (4-6 p.m.), July 30 (7:30-9:30 p.m.), and August 9 (8-10 p.m.).

The Hive strives to gather groups with a wide range of ages, backgrounds, perspectives and experiences. Ticket purchasers (click here) are invited to make an additional donation, to go toward a ticket for someone who otherwise could not join.

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A pollywog makes its first appearance in our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

If it’s a bit hard to see: That’s the whole idea. Mother Nature doesn’t miss a trick.

(Photo/Barry Kresch)

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And finally … Happy Bastille Day, to all who celebrate!

(“06880” is “Where Westport meets the world.” If you enjoy being part of our great online community, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Environment

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Roundup: Electric Boat, Jeremy Schaap, DexaFit …

Posted on July 6, 2025 | 4 comments

Westport is a very electric vehicle town.

Now alert “06880” reader Jamie Walsh has seen his first Candela — all-electric — boat. It was moored yesterday at Compo Beach’s Ned Dimes Marina.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

Jamie says: “Pretty cool! Those 3 things protruding in the air are the hydrofoils. They lower into the water as the boat accelerates, greatly reducing drag and rocking normally associated with most boats.

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14-time Emmy-winning ESPN reporter — and 1988 Staples High School graduate, and current resident — Jeremy Schaap has covered just about every event.

In 30 countries, on 5 continents.

Including, in our (almost) back yard, the annual 4th of July Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest.

Is it a sport? Is Joey Chestnut the Tiger Woods of eating?

Yesterday, another noted Westport journalist — Dave Briggs — sat down with Jeremy to chat about that topic.

And much more.

Their wide-ranging talk included Caitlin Clark envy, transgender sports in America, and much more.

Click here or below, to see and hear it all.

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Last fall, I had myself scanned — and underwent other tests — at Longevity Powered by DexaFit.

The company — nestled inside Sherpa. the personal fitness and training gym across from Border Grille (not their health food partner) — uses those analyses to help people understand their bodies, and improve fitness.

A Dexa scan is a quick analysis of body composition, detailing muscle mass, bone mass, fat and visceral fat. The report provides insights into a person’s T-score (bone density), ALMI, FFMI, A/G Ratio, and BMC (bone mineral content).

If you don’t know what all that means — neither did I.

But manager Amy Julien explained it all.

The other day, I went back for a follow-up. I had taken some of Amy’s recommendations to, um, heart — and the results showed improvements in areas like muscle gain.

Whew! My improved fitness regime had paid off.

Plus, I did not want to disappoint Amy.

I had not taken up a couple of her other recommendations though, like walking with a weighted vest. She (very) gently tsk-tsked me, and provided a few options.

The good news: I’m in pretty good shape.

On the other hand, I’m not Mr. Olympia.

On the third hand, I don’t want to be. I still have my day job, which keeps me from spending 5 hours a day at the gym.

In the meantime, I’ll keep working out. I’ll follow a few of Amy’s other recommendations. I may (or may not) buy that weighted vest.

And in 6 months, I’ll go back to Longevity to see how I’m doing.

Amy Julien and yours truly. Long may we both live.

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Westporters are not pleased with the state Department of Transportation maintenance facility construction project, off the Sherwood Island Connector behind Walgreens.

But at least the DOT got into the patriotic holiday spirit this weekend:

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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Early Clover — the former Coasters’ lead singer, and Apollo Theater favorite –brought his soul/R&B/Motown show to the Levitt Pavilion last night.

The youngsters he brought up on stage were born decades after Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Nat King Cole and Otis Redding were alive.

But — with a little encouragement — they got right into those legends’ classic grooves.

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Bert Reisman — an accomplished journalist, businessman, and longtime Westporter whose volunteer efforts ranged from the Library to Little League —  died June 25, at his Southbury home. He was 96.

The Brooklyn native (and passionate Dodgers fan) graduated from New York University in 1941 with a degree in journalism.

At NYU he met his first wife, Sydelle Silver. They were married for 43 years before her death.

They left New York for Colorado, where he was a reporter for the Durango Hearld. Bert then wrote for the St. Joseph (Missouri) Gazette and Rochester (New York) Times Union. His feature subjects included Willie Mays, Jonas Salk and Robert Oppenheimer.

Bert left journalism in 1959 for corporate communications. He spent 30 years at IBM, where he spearheaded the public relations launch of the IBM 360.

He was also responsible for award-winning campaigns that featured Charlie Chaplin and the M*A*S*H characters.

In his final position, Bert he oversaw IBM’s advertising, media relations and market research. After reaching mandatory retirement age, he spent 6 years as a senior consultant at Burton Marsteller.

During his 35 years in Westport, Bert was active in local politics, served on the Westport Library board of directors, and was a Little League organizer, umpire and manager.

He met his second wife, Louise, when he moved to Stratford. They were married for 16 years, before her death in 2021.

Bert split his time between Connecticut and Carefree, Arizona, where his passion for golf flourished. He enjoyed being part of the Mulligans, a group devoted to golf, community service and laughter.

He is survived by his children Robin of Westport, Jodie (Mark) Naber of Sanibel Island, Florida, and Mike of Westport, and grandchildren Samantha Sydelle of Providence and Charlie Reisman of Los Angeles.

A funeral service will be private. Donations in Bert’s name can be made to the Amazin’ Mets Foundation. Type in mikereisman@outlook.com when prompted.

Bert Reisman

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Slava Leykind died Wednesday, from complications after participating in a mountain endurance event earlier in the week. He was 43.

Born in Minsk, USSR, in 1982, he emigrated with his family to Minneapolis in 1988.

In 20024 he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

Slava joined General Mills. In 2006 he joined the boutique investment banking firm Sawaya Segalas, and rose one 3 senior partners at what became Sawaya Partners. When it was acquired by Canaccord Genuity in 2021, Slava became co-head of US consumer investment banking for the broader firm.

Yet Slava’s role as a husband and father was his greatest achievement, passion and pride. He is survived by his wife Amy Keller Leykind; children Charlotte, Eloise and Jonah Leykind; parents Art and Nelly Leykind; brothers Gene and Max; parents-in-law Bonnie and Alex Keller; in-laws Nina Leykind, Laura and Alan Isenberg, and Rachel Leykind, and nephews and nieces Deia Leykind, Coby Leykind, Jackson Isenberg, Esme Isenberg and Blake Leykind.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. July 8 at Temple Israel. A private burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a fund in Slava’s name is being established at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business. Details will follow.

Slava Leykind

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It was hard not to have fun this weekend.

And that goes not just for guys and gals. Gulls, too.

Wendy Levy spotted this pair at Burying Hill Beach. They swooped past, posing just long enough for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … happy 50th birthday, to 50 Cent!

(“06880” relies on support from readers like you. Whether it’s $500, $50 — or 50 cents — your donation is important. Please click here, then follow the prompts. Thank you!)

4 Comments

Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Obituaries, Sports

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State DOT Promises Action On Residents’ Clear-Cutting Concerns

Posted on April 13, 2025 | 11 comments

Stina Sternberg Snow lives on Hillandale Road, not far from the Sherwood Island Connector.

Which means: not far from the clear-cutting done by the state Department of Transportation, as part of construction of a new building at their maintenance facility behind Walgreens.

Stina and her husband Matt have been in touch with the DOT. Here’s their report after a conversation with project engineer Matt Easdon.

One view of the clear-cutting at the state DOT maintenance facility (Sherwood Island Connector is on the left) …

Stina reports: “It’s clear from the way Easdon (and Scott Adkins, the District 3 engineer to whom the baton will now be passed as the project moves to the construction phase) have responded to us that they’re open to input.”

“Just the e-mails and calls they’ve received over the last 3 days have resulted in orders for new design changes to be added to the plans. It’s clear they hadn’t thought of repopulating trees before.”

Stina says she and her neighbors have learned that the construction phase of the new DOT maintenance facility — “essentially a garage for the state’s snow plows and maintenance trucks — the same function this property has held for 60+ years” — will start this summer, and last until the spring of 2027.

The number of trucks housed there now will not increase, but the new main building will be 3 times larger than the current one. It will include offices, and sit closer to the Sherwood Island Connector.

Stina also says that DOT has been told by the town that the east side of the lot (near West Parish Road) is “hands off for now,” because of the possibility of building affordable housing there.

Stina also says that the DOT originally looked for other parts of Westport for  new facility — to not disrupt a residential area — but no land was available.

… and another, from Hillandale Lane. (Photos/Matt Snow)

Easdon told Stina that all the trees and brush along the connector and Hillandale Road were removed now — though construction is months away — and done quickly to avoid disrupting wildlife nesting season. That was recommended by the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, which has been consulted on the project.

Stina adds, “They claim to be very open to collaborating with town residents to help make the new facility as undisruptive as possible, and to listen our input when it comes to the tree situation.

“It’s obviously too late for the latter, but because we’ve reached out with our complaints over the last few days, Easdon’s team has already asked the agronomy side of their planning team to work on adding new trees (probably arbor vitae) along the Hillandale Road and Sherwood Island Connector sides to the plans.

An “official” pre-construction meeting, with everyone involved in the project, is set for New Haven next Wednesday (April 16).

The meeting is not open to the public, but Easdon told Stina “they will add a discussion about the community pushback and planting new trees. He will hopefully have drawings to share with us of what the whole project will look like” a few days later.

Stina passes along these emails —

  • matthew.easdon@ct.gov
  • Scott.Adkins@ct.gov

and a link to a petition to restore the trees.

(If it happens in Westport — or to Westport — you’ll read about it on “06880.” Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

11 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Places, Politics, Transportation

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Police/Fire/EMS Facility: The Process Begins

Posted on February 26, 2025 | 26 comments

Westport’s police station was built in the 1950s — at 1/3 the originally proposed size.

Our fire headquarters dates to the 1970s. It’s too small for modern fire trucks, lacks training space, and has safety deficiencies.

Emergency Medical Services ambulances share bays with large oxygen cannisters. Like police vehicles, they are sometimes trapped on 3 sides by flood waters.

For those reasons — and many more — town officials are exploring a joint Police/Fire/EMS facility. The most appropriate site, they say, is nearly 10 acres, by the current I-95 commuter parking lot on the Sherwood Island Connector.

The public got its first look at the plan — still very early in the concept phase — last night.

A large crowd filled the Senior Center for a presentation by the police and fire chiefs, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and a pair of architects.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas and Fire Chief Nick Marsan, at last night’s meeting. (Photo/Dan Woog)

They provided plenty of information.

And they heard a number of questions.

Expansion of fire headquarters — located on Post Road East next to Terrain, since moving from what is now Emmy Squared on Church Lane half a century ago — has been in the town’s capital plan, Tooker noted.

A new or renovated police station — which relocated to Jesup Road over 70 years ago, after sharing space in what was then Town Hall (now Don Memo and Walrus Alley) — has not been listed in that forecast.

Combining the 3 facilities at one first responders’ site would offer savings in efficiency and scale, Fire Chief Nick Marsan and Police Chief Foti Koskinas noted.

An early drawing for a proposed Police/Fire/EMS facility.

Response times would be enhanced in some cases by leaving the congested downtown area. The new location would also offer speedier access to I-95, both for emergencies on the interstate and to reach Saugatuck Shores.

Relocating the police station would also free up dozens of parking spots downtown.

“No one is forcing anything on anyone,” Koskinas emphasized.

“We understand the challenges. We know there are other big projects ahead, likek schools, bridges and Longshore. We’re not saying where in the queue we want to be. But we want to be in it.”

The point of the meeting, he emphasized, was to initiate a discussion on how tax dollars would be spent to ensure safety for residents, employees and visitors all over town.

An early 1950s plan for a new police station on Jesup Road. The current facility is 1/3 the size of this proposal.

Presenters described a number of areas — for example, the benefits of collaboration between 3 departments, the advantages of on-site training, increasing square footage dedicated to ID needs, and cost savings for land, design and infrastructure — that a shared facility could enhance.

Current police headquarters.

Twice, Koskinas noted, the town has turned down opportunities for land that could be used for first responders.

When the current fire station was built, property was available at a former car dealership just east of Crescent Road. That is now the site of Terrain.

And when State Police Troop G moved from Bridgeport to its site at the Post Road East/Sherwood Island Connector junction, Westport was offered the land for $1. Officials turned it down. Today, it’s Walgreens.

Koskinas explained that the proposed location of a new facility on the Connector — just north of the commuter parking lot entrance — was one of the few spots in Westport large enough for all 3 departments.

The current Fire Department headquarters.

Baron’s South, for example, has topographic, access and zoning issues, while using Winslow Park would present traffic and access issues.

Former RTM member John Suggs said that the Connector site was part of an RTM-designated archaelogical preserve. (Adjacent land was the birthplace of Green’s Farms Church’s West Parish.)

Koskinas promised that a new facility would enhance the now-overgrown area, and honor town history.

Building on that property would require relocation of the commuter lot — perhaps south of I-95, closer to Sherwood Island State Park. That would involve negotiations with the state.

The entrance to the shared facility would be just north of the current I-95 commuter parking lot, on the Sherwood Island Connector.

Greens Farms Association president Art Schoeller cited opposition from neighborhood residents, and asked about noise abatement and noise pollution.

“It is the best spot,” another Greens Farms resident acknowledged.

“We’re taking measured risks now,” Koskinas said, referring to Police, Fire and EMS operations.

“Some of the risks are critical. Some are sustainable. But this project touches everyone in town.”

(“06880” will cover this proposed facility all the way to its completion. We do the same for all major Westport news — and all the minor stories too. Please click here to support us. Thank you!)

26 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Places, Police

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Roundup: Crypto Scheme, State Senate Race, Ruden Report …

Posted on July 20, 2024 | 17 comments

2011 Staples High School graduate Dylan Meissner pleaded guilty Thursday in US District Court to wire fraud. He was charged with stealing nearly $4.5 million from the crypto company, where he was vice president of finance.

He played baseball at Staples. According to his LinkedIn profile, he graduated with a BS in accounting from Pennsylvania State University in 2015, where he was active in the Penn State Investment Association.

In 2016, Meissner received an accounting MS from Penn State’s Smeal College of Business.

Though his company was not identified, his LinkedIn profile says he was VP of finance at Delphi Digital, during the time frame covered by the court. An FBI investigation found that he diverted $4,461,828 in the firm’s funds to cover “significant personal trading losses.”

Wire fraud carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. He will be sentenced on October 11. In the meantime, he has been order to pay restitution of $4,633,424.99.

Cryptocurrency

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Kami Evans has announced her candidacy for Connecticut’s Senate District 26.

Democratic incumbent Ceci Maher is serving her first term in Hartford. Evans — a former Westport resident — now once again lives here. The district includes Westport, Weston, Wilton, Redding, and parts of Ridgefield, New Canaan, Darien and Stamford.

In her announcement, Evans — who has worked for non-profits and in public relations, and is running as a Republican — said: “I’m here to champion family values and focus on community strength. Our journey together will be about uniting, uplifting, and creating endless opportunities for our district that everyone will benefit from.

“Your voice matters, and I’m here to listen. Let’s engage in meaningful conversations and work hand in hand to rejuvenate our district. Together, we can achieve greatness and build a brighter, stronger future for all.”

Kami Evans

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Last night’s full moon drew a full complement of photographers.

Thanks to all who submitted images. Here’s one of the best, from Old Mill Beach:

(Photo/Patricia Auber)

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Yesterday’s Roundup included a photo of the “Welcome to Westport” sign at the Sherwood Island Connector and Post Road East.

Actually — depending on which direction you’re traveling — it now says “Welcome to Estport” or “Welcome to Westpor.” A recent accident sliced off a bit of the wood.

How recent? “06880” Mary Lou Roels reports: “The sign was hit on June 29, and the car caught on fire. I approached after midnight to see this (below). Fire crews managed the scene.”

(Photo/Mary Lou Roels)

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For 10 years, The Ruden Report has been the go-to site for coverage of FCIAC high school athletics. All 16 schools in the Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference get plenty of ink — well, pixels — in a wide variety of boys and girls sports.

Now, the multi-platform source — the brainchild of 1978 Staples High School graduate Dave Ruden — has been acquired

Westport-based Connoisseur Media is the new owner. Their resources — including 6 radio stations, and various digital brands — will enable Ruden to expand reporting throughout the area.

Connoisseur operates and/or owns WEBE 108, STAR 99.9, WYBC, WICC, 99.1 WPLR, and 95.9 The Fox in Connecticut.

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It will be an exciting October for Fred Cantor.

The 1971 Staples High School graduate produced 2 films. In the span of a week, both will have their television premieres on CPTV.

“The High School That Rocked!” — a 2017 documentary that chronicles concerts at Staples by the Doors, Cream, Rascals, Animals, Remains, Sly and the Family Stone, and others (including a very young, pre-Aerosmith Steve Tyler) — is set for October 14 (9 p.m.).

Cantor made the film with Casey Denton, a 2014 Staples grad who obviously was born way after that golden era. The film earned kudos on the festival circuit.

A week later (October 21, 9 p.m.), Cantor’s “It’s a Hollywood Life!” debuts.

That film — released this year — focuses on longtime Westport resident Susan Granger’s 80-plus years connected to the movie business. (Spoiler alert: She started in childhood,  appearing with some of the biggest stars during the Golden Age of Hollywood.)

BONUS REEL: People in and near New York City can see “It’s A Hollywood Life!” in a theater. Its NYC premiere is next Saturday (July 27, at the Chain NYC Film Festival). A Q-and-A after the screening features co-director Maya Weldon-Lagrimas, who recently received the Howard R. Lamar Prize in Film from Yale — the school’s top film prize. Click here for ticket information.

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Jazz at the Post has announced 3 upcoming dates: August 1 (Melissa Newman), August 15 (Uri Caine) and August 29 (Janice Friedman).

Shows are 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 on Riverside Avenue. Dinner service starts at 7 p.m. Click here for tickets, and more information.

In other jazz news, on Wednesdays (starting September 11), Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall will coach 2 adult ensembles: beginners and intermediates/ advanced. Both provide “a gentle and stimulating opportunity to learn and refine the repertoire and language of jazz.”

All levels of musicianship and experience are welcome. The first 2 sessions are free. To learn more, email jazzrabbi@gmail.com. Include your instrument and phone number.

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Former Westporter Kathryn McCabe died June 30. She was 97, and lived in Fairfield.

The Michigan native, and 1948 graduate of the University of Michigan, spent 43 years in Westport.

She was a social worker in Detroit and Norwalk, where she worked for STAR. Kathryn also volunteered at Earthplace.

She enjoyed reading, opera, the outdoors, water and snow skiing, tennis, boating, playing piano and ukelele, and singing.

Kathryn loved animals, especially her cats and dogs. She celebrated her 90th birthday with horseback riding.

Survivors include her twin daughters, Janet Gibbons (Ken) of Hyde Park, Vermont, and Marjorie Wroblewski (Broni) of Fairfield; son Richard (Donna) of Acton, Massachusetts; grandchildren Greg Gibbons (Jennifer), Geoff Gibbons (Melissa), Lauren Wroblewski (fiancé Ferg Young) and Ryan McCabe, and great- grandchildren Emma, Colin, James, Beckett and Jackson. Kathryn was predeceased by her brothers Richard, Norman and Jack Ellison. She was predeceased by her husband, Barry McCabe.

A celebration of her life was held at the Gaelic-American Club in Fairfield.

Kathryn McCabe

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Among the underappreciated assets of Westport: the flower pots on Soundview Drive.

Paid for and maintained by the Compo Beach Improvement Association, they serve 2 purposes.

They slow traffic (theoretically, at least).

And — changing with the seasons — they are beautiful.

Check out one of them, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

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And finally … Bernice Johnson Reagon, “whose stirring gospel voice helped provide the soundtrack of the civil rights movement, then went on to become a cultural historian, a curator at the Smithsonian Institution and the founder of the women’s a cappella group Sweet Honey in the Rock,” died Tuesday in Washington. She was 81.

She was a remarkable, multi-talented woman whose accomplishments may be unknown to many. Click here for her full obituary.

(Another day, another weekend … and “06880” keeps keeping you informed on all things Westport. It’s what we do — but we can’t do it without your support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Obituaries, Police, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Staples Band Director, Sherwood Island Surge, Newman Family T-shirts …

Posted on July 5, 2024 | 5 comments

Band director at Staples High School is one of the most important — and most visible — positions in town.

Phil Giampietro resigned this spring. He accepted a similar position at Hall High School-West Hartford, closer to his Cheshire home.

His place will be taken by Kevin Mazzarella. A press release says:

“Following interviews with a number of exemplary band directors, Kevin emerged as the unanimous choice of our students and Staples staff. He instantly connected with the students and brings to our program a unique blend of energy, warmth, and outstanding musical talent.

“Kevin was recently named Coventry Public Schools’ Teacher of the Year for 2024, where he taught Middle School Band for the past 3 years. Previously, at Cutler Middle School in Groton, he earned the 2018 Teacher of the Year award and was a quarter-finalist for the GRAMMY Music Educator Award. Under his leadership, the Cutler Jazz Band was selected as a Showcase Ensemble at the 2020 CMEA Conference.”

Mazzarella is a graduate of the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music. He holds masters’ degrees in music education from Columbia University’s Teachers College, and educational technology from the University of Saint Joseph. He completed his graduate certificate in trumpet performance from the University of Connecticut in 2023.

His extensive performance credits span genres from jazz to early music

His previous principal Ross Sward, a former music educator, calls him “one of the best music teachers I’ve ever known.”

Welcome to Westport, Kevin!

Kevin Mazzarella

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Despite morning clouds, it did not take long for the Sherwood Island State Park parking lot to fill up yesterday.

That happens on holiday, and/or hot, days.

But what happened next was new: Drivers pulled to the side of the Connector — and both sides of Greens Farms Road. There were vehicles all the way to the commuter lot.

They parked, picked up their chairs, coolers and umbrellas, and walked to Sherwood Island.

(Photo/John Karrel)

There were even cars on the I-95 exit ramp. A sign there said it was “closed to walkers.”

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

A new trend? A one-off?

Stay tuned. (Hat tip: Barbara Wanamaker)

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We see a lot of different types of watercraft off Compo Beach, from jet skis to mega-yachts.

Outrigger canoes — not so much.

But there was one yesterday, off South Beach. The Ke Aloha stopped by, on its way from New Jersey to Milford. From there it will trailer the boat to Gloucester, Massachusetts, to complete in the Blackburn Challenge Race.

(Hat tip and photo/Bruce McFadden)

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Because yesterday was a holiday, I plumb forgot about the Westport Farmers’ Market.

But many others remembered. The Imperial Avenue parking lot was as packed as any other week.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

In addition to the usual shoppers, there were folks looking for something fresh to bring to an afternoon party or cookout.

The Farmers’ Market runs every Thursday, through mid-November.

Just in time to pick up food for Thanksgiving.

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During his 50-plus years in Westport, Paul Newman was everywhere in town.

We saw him in supermarkets, shops and restaurants. He and his wife Joanne Woodward handed out popcorn at the Westport Historical Society. He picked up hitchhikers (including me, 3 times).

Newman’s daughter Melissa is a giver in her own right. For 20 yeas, she volunteered at a woman’s prison.

She was casual friends with a social worker there. More than a decade ago,  he handed her the gift.

It was a framed poster of her father. Looking straight at the camera — and pointing sternly — the young actor urged all “Young Citizens for Johnson” to register to vote.

Melissa had never seen that poster. “It was one of the best presents I ever got,” she says. She hung it on her kitchen wall. It’s been there ever since.

Four years ago, Melissa’s friend Miggs Burroughs helped change the message to “Research. Register. Vote.” Melissa put that message — with her father’s pointed finger — on t-shirts.

Now she’s doing it again.

As in 2020, she wants the message to be non-partisan. Besides, LBJ is no longer on the ballot.

Click here to order a short- or long-sleeve Paul Newman/Vote t-shirt. There’s also a link in Melissa’s Instagram bio (@melissamudandmusic).

It’s not only non-partisan — it’s non-profit. Melissa will donate $5 from every sale to The Civics Center. The non-profit promotes voting and civics education for young people.

So far, she’s given given them $1,250.

The ordering deadline is July 31. They’ll be ready the last week in August.

With plenty of time left to wear them. And to register, and vote.

The Paul Newman short-sleeve t-shirt.

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Umphrey’s McGee rocked the Levitt Pavilion last night.

They were psychedelic, loud, and enthusiastically welcomed.

Tonight’s (Friday) show is a ticketed event. Moe., with Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country & Neighbor, take the stage at 4:30 p.m. Click here for details.

The weekend concerts are free: Early Clover (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; click here) and Leonardo Suarez Paz’s Cuartetango (Saturday, 7 p.m.; click here).

Umphrey’s McGee (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

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For thousands of Westporters, yesterday’s menu was as as American as it gets: burgers and hot dogs.

But as our “Westport … Naturally” photo shows, others opted for fish:

(Photo/Seth Goltzer)

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And finally … on this date in 1996, Dolly the Sheep — the first mammal cloned from an adult cell — was born. It was a mammary gland cell, and whe was named after Dolly Parton.

(It would be nice to clone donations to “06880.” But we can’t. We need each individual one. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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

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Scott Smith: Meeting House Musings

Posted on March 19, 2024 | 14 comments

The other day, alert and longtime “06880” reader Scott Smith tromped around one of Westport’s most historic sites: the “Meeting House” land, where the original Green’s Farms Congregational Church was located. It was there that the West Parish of Fairfield grew and flourished, on its own.

Today the site is off the Sherwood Island Connector, just beyond the I-95 commuter parking lot.

This 1933 map of Greens Farms by George Jennings shows the meeting house across from the burial ground near Greens Farms Road, West Parish Road and Center Street.

Digging into the subject, Scott found that — years ago — a plan was developed by Westport’s Historic District Commission to create an interpretive trail there.

“Like so many other well-intentioned local improvement schemes, it is just gathering dust in some Town Hall office,” Scott laments.

A vision of a possible “West Parish Meeting House” Historic Site, from the Historic District Commission brochure.

“But maybe 06880 readers will be as curious about the site’s potential as I am.”

Scott writes:

For all the chest-thumping we Westporters do about our rich history and vaunted sense of “place,” I find it odd that so little attention is paid to the earliest traces of our beginnings.

I’m talking about the West Parish Meeting House that was constructed in 1737 at what is now the corner of Greens Farms Road and the Sherwood Island Connector, opposite the Colonial Cemetery established even earlier.

Though it was erected nearly a century after the 5 Bankside Farmers and their families first settled on the fertile coastal upland between Sasco and New Creek in 1648, this ground and its forgotten structure seem to be regarded as the foundational heart of our community.

Some years ago, I tried to explore the setting with my then-young son. We parked in the commuter lot and hiked over to the field where I’d heard the Meeting House once stood, until it was burned by the retreating British in 1779.

I don’t know what I was thinking. Maybe I thought we’d stumble upon the charred remains of the foundation, or kick up an old glass bottle or shard of a clay jug.

We didn’t make it far, defeated by swampy marshland and thick brambles.

Which is why I was intrigued to see the other day that the overgrown field has been bushwhacked back to stubble.

The entrance to the Meeting House site …

I pulled my car off to the side of the road near a gate of the enclosing stone wall, and wandered across the 5.9-acre property. Squat concrete posts, 2 feet high and set about 30 paces apart, mark 4 corners, likely of the original structure.

… and one of the concrete posts. (Photos/Scott Smith)

What I also see in this empty lot is a blank slate to recreate something new. Perhaps it’s an interpretive trail that explains more of the history of these colonial settlers, ideally including stories of the native inhabitants they replaced (sometimes by force). Their absence from our collective memory is even more stark.

To quote the town of Westport website:

By the time of widespread European contact in the early 1600s, the Algonquian tradition characterized Fairfield County. The Westport area was further defined as the Paugussett/Pootatuck group, though there were many dialects and sub-groups …

The Uncowa occupied territory west of the Pequonnock to Southport. The Sasqua occupied lands about the Great Swamp and Sasco Creek. The Maxumux occupied the lands west of Sasco Creek to Compo, extending inland to the Aspetuck River. The Compaw occupied the lands between Compo and the Saugatuck River. West of the Saugatuck were the Norwalk people. North, along the Aspetuck River, were the Aspetuck.

One of the very few reminders of the first residents of this area is Machamux Park, on Greens Farms Road near I-95. (Photo/Fred Cantor)

That’s a lot of people, and a lot to unpack. Perhaps the Meeting House is the place to do it, paying appropriate homage to all who lived and met here long ago.

I’m a big fan of Westport’s open spaces and pocket parks. A model for a reimagined Meeting House Historic Site would be the Mill Pond Preserve, with its native plantings, benches, and signage displaying historic and wildlife information. It was designed and built by a volunteer committee that still actively maintains it.

Details of the proposed plan.

As it always comes down to parking, there would be plenty for school groups and others at the Meeting House if the state lends access to the commuter lot.

Wouldn’t that be a fitting future for one of Westport’s oldest past places?

(The Historic Site was designated as a State Archaeological Preserve in 2010. Details about the original building are found in this Westport Historic District Commission brochure. A fuller preservation and cultural landscape assessment plan may be found here.)

The Historic District Commission’s proposed “ghost structure.”

(“06880” is Westport’s hyper-local blog. We cover our town’s present, future — and past. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

 

 

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Posted in History, religion

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Friday Flashback #374

Posted on November 17, 2023 | 10 comments

As the west side of the Saugatuck River is redeveloped — with new office building, and the recently opened Bankside House — and plans for a redesign of Parker Harding Plaza behind Main Street muddle along, I found this illustration from the 1960s.

I don’t know the artist, though it sure looks like Stevan Dohanos’ style.

It shows the Famous Artists School — of which he was a founding member — and the adjacent Famous Writers School.

Across the river are the backs of Main Street stores. Parker Harding — built on landfill a decade earlier — is barely visible.

To the left is the Victorian house that stood on Gorham Island. It has since been replaced by a large green and gold office building.

In the distance is Bedford Elementary School (now Town Hall) and the spire of Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.

What stands out to you? Click “Comments” below.

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50 Years Ago This Week:

A Westport News editorial urged the town of Westport to buy a 9.1-acre parcel at the corner of Greens Farms Road and the Sherwood Island Connector.

Among the reasons: “…by purchasing the property, Westport will then have ample time to change the zoning so as to accommodate a new and smaller corporate headquarters…”

It is unclear whether that land is now the town’s transfer station (with part of the property belonging to private Sherwood Farms Lane), or the parcel across the Connector that is the I-95 Exit 18 commuter park-and-ride lot.

The “smaller headquarters” refers to Westport’s first corporate headquarters: Stauffer Chemical (now Bridgewater Associates) at Nyala Farm, a few yards south on the Connector.

The transfer station and park-and-ride, on both sides of the Sherwood Island Connector.

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Friday Flashback

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Crash, Investigation Close Sherwood Island Connector

Posted on October 23, 2023 | 6 comments

The Sherwood Island Connector will be closed from the Post Road to Greens Farms Road, through mid-afternoon.

Police are conducting an accident investigation. Sources outside the Police Department tell “06880” that it involves a stolen vehicle.

The Sherwood Island Connector at Post Road East. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

Residents reported multiple first responders racing through Saugatuck and other parts of town.

A witness said the stolen vehicle reportedly hit a utility pole, then kept going until it crashed a second time.

Another stolen vehicle was also reportedly involved in the chase. Two people have reportedly been detained.

No further details are available.

Another view of the scene. (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

 

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Posted in Police

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Painting The Town Yellow

Posted on April 17, 2023 | 3 comments

Debra Kandrak’s one-woman crusade to paint the town yellow is paying off beautifully.

Every autumn for 4 years, she has used a wide variety of outlets — social media, emails, and of course “06880” — to encourage Westporters to plant daffodils.

She brings her message to friends, strangers, town organizations and committees and businesses.

Her ask is simple: “Paint the Town Yellow.”

Every spring around this time, we are blessed with the results of her — and their — work.

This year, the gorgeous yellow flowers are everywhere.

From neighborhoods like Greens Farms to the Westport Library, around mailboxes and street signs, by the Cribari Bridge, in traffic islands and at the entrances to Staples High and Bedford Middle Schools, Debra’s yeowoman efforts pay off for all of us.

As perennials, each year brings more and more explosions of color. Here are just a few examples of Debra’s efforts:

Near the police station.

Jesup Road

Imperial Avenue.

Compo Beach.

Sherwood Island Connector.

Weston Road, near Cross Highway.

Nevada Hitchcock Garden, Weston Road and Cross Highway.

Debra Kandrak’s adopt-a-spot, on Prospect Road and Greens Farms Road.

Debra Kandrak’s own Greens Farms barn …

… and her garden.

(“06880” is often inspired by Westport’s beauty. If you’re inspired by our hyper-local blog, please click here to contribute. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment

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