Tag Archives: spotted lanternfly

Roundup: Carjacking Plea, Lanternflies, Crabs …

Posted on August 30, 2024 | 12 comments

The 17-year-old charged in connection with last September’s carjacking of an Aston Martin from the garage of a Bayberry Lane home would not face a home invasion charge — if he agrees to serve 8 1/2 years in prison.

Assistant State’s Attorney Elizabeth Moran made the offer on Tuesday, at State Superior Court in Stamford. It came “in light of the defendant’s age, behavior while being out on release and lack of adult record.”

The teenager has until October 9 to make a decision. Click here for the full story, on CT Insider.

Footage from a security camera of last September’s carjacking.

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Spotted lanternflies are (ugh!) back.

But we don’t have to just sit back and look at their fascinating and ugly selves.

Joe Schnierlein, Aspetuck Land Trust offers these tips, via the Pennsylvania Department of Forestry:

SQUISH THEM

And when you do so, do it well. One adult can lay about 80 eggs.

REMOVE ALL TREE OF HEAVEN

The Tree of Heaven is also invasive, so you are doing double duty. Click here for information.

WRAP TREES AND BUSHES WITH STICKY TAPE

Wrap tape around a tree or shrub. Lanternflies get stuck as they climb up the plant. Tape made by Catch Master (4 30-foot rolls for about $24 is so sticky that you also need to put screening or mesh about 1/2 to 1 inch over the sticky tape, to keep birds from getting stuck in it.

SPRAY WITH VINEGAR & SOAP, OR VINEGAR ALONE

Reports are that this is effective. however, plants may react to the acidity.

REMOVE THE EGG MASSES

Click here to see the lanternfly’s life cycle. Spotted lanternfly egg masses can be laid on any surface (outdoor furniture, fence posts, etc.).

Spotted lanternflies last year, at Winslow Park. (Photo/Michael Mossman)

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A reader writes:

“The Old Mill neighborhood is fed up with the blue crab industry that has arisen on our pristine beach.

“Participants arrive from New York State around low tide anytime after 5 p.m., when they can park legally on Hillspoint Road adjacent to the two concrete stairways down to the beach.

“They often come in groups of 15 at all hours of darkness, each with a bright LED flashlight fastened to their head. The lights disturb the precious marine ecosystem, and the surrounding neighbors’ sleep.

Old Mill crabbers, with LED lights.

“The crabbers harvested crabs the night the town closed the beaches to swimming as a result of the recent huge rainstorm. This could cause serious illness to unsuspecting consumers at the end of the commercial supply chain.

“Perhaps most disconcerting is the trash left behind each night, next to where they park: beer bottles and cans, plastic bottles, food packaging, wet socks, used rubber gloves, cigarette butts, plastic buckets and more.

Old Mill garbage.

“This is just what we see. Who knows what they are discarding in the water that is hidden.

“The town needs to prohibit overnight parking in this area starting at 5 p.m. to any vehicle without a Westport beach permit, and needs to patrol the Old Mill parking lot after 10 p.m.

“This abuse must stop. Our beaches are not intended to support a commercial industry, especially one unsupervised and unchecked by health officials.”

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Registration for Westport Parks & Recreation Department programs begin online this coming Wednesday (September 4, 9 a.m.).

Click here to see all programs.

To prepare: Sign in to your online account. Under “Account Options,” you’ll see your name with a pencil next to the edit button. Select the edit button; then choose the “Contact Info” tab.

Verify that your email address is current; select the save button at the bottom. You will be directed back to the “account options” page.

Under your family name, you will see your family members. Follow the steps below for each family member.

  • select “manage family members”
  • choose a name from the list
  • Under “Family Member Information,” make any necessary changes. Make sure that the grade (if applicable) is correct; hit “Save.”
  • Go to “Contact Information” to verify your cell/home phone, and provide carrier if interested in receiving text messages. Make sure your email is current. Click “Save.”
  • Continue this process for every family member.

Have an address change? Email recreation@westportct.gov.

If you are not able to log into your online account, do not create another profile. Email recreation@westportct.gov or call 203-341-5152.

Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities — the non-profit that helps children with learning and attention differences reach their full potential — has a new short video.

It tells the story of who the group is, and what they do, while inspiring and comforting parents of kids with LD and ADHD.

The film — which features honorary chair Henry Winkler – was created by Westporter Robert Steven Williams.

All interviews wee conducted at the Southport School. Click below to watch:

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Storyfest — the Westport Library’s 7th annual genre-spanning literary festival (and the largest in Connecticut), celebrating all forms of storytelling — is just 3 weeks away.

The event kicks off Friday, September 20, with a keynote conversation with Roxane Gay and Oliver Radclyffe. Saturday (September 21) features a full panel lineup, 2 live podcast recordings, and a dedication to Westport literary icon Sybil Steinberg. Pitchfest caps off the weekend on Sunday (September 22).

Click here for full details.

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Earthplace calls this a “wonder-‘fall'” time of year.

The environmental and educational center welcomes September with live performances, foraging and wildlife programs, a community volunteer clean-up day, a “Harvest Homecoming” including a nature walk, canoe paddle, family campfire, after-school activities and more.

For details, click here.

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The honors keep coming for Harold Bailey Jr.

Yesterday, “06880” reported that the longtime resident/TEAM Westport chair/Westport Country Playhouse board member will be honored — with his wife Bernicestine McLeod Bailey — at the WCP gala with Kristin Chenoweth and Mary-Mitchell Campbell on Saturday, September 14.

The previous week — on September 6 ( 2 p.m.) — Bailey will be featured at the Senior Center, through their “This is Your Life” project.

A collaboration with The Legacy Project USA, it’s an up-close-and-personal look at the lives of friends and neighbors, both well known and quiet — before and during their time here.

Rozanne Gates, co-owner of The Legacy Project, will moderate the event. The public is invited.

Harold Bailey Jr.

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Hummingbirds don’t usually fly too quickly to be photographed.

But this one hung around in Marvin Frimmer’s yard long enough to be captured — photographically, of course — for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Marvin Frimmer)

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And finally … today is National College Colors Day. We’ll celebrate with 3 of the greatest college fight songs in the history of athletics.

Feel free to disagree.

(Here’s one thing no one has to fight over: support for “06880.” We all agree: This is where Westport meets the world. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Library, Police

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Roundup: Lanternflies, EMT Course, Woodstock On WPKN …

Posted on August 17, 2024 | 4 comments

Spotted lanternflies are back!

And the only thing there’s more of than the swarming, gross but — admit it — very cool-looking bugs, are the number of photos sent in by “06880” readers.

Here are 2 of the most compelling:

(Photo/Jonathan Prager)

To learn more about spotted lanternflies, click here.

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Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service’s next Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course begins on August 26.

Students will learn everything from Band-Aids to multi-system trauma care. Successful completion leads to state certification, allowing EMTs to volunteer on Westport ambulances.

Teenagers who are 14 or 15 are eligible for the organization’s EMR class, also this fall.

The training program for new EMTs has been revamped. New members will be placed in service faster, to begin on-duty training with a crew chief.

No prior experience or knowledge is necessary. To apply, or for more information, click here.

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This weekend marks the 55th anniversary of Woodstock.

And the best celebration anywhere is taking place on WPKN-FM 89.5.

The Bridgeport station is airing the complete original recording of the 1969 Woodstock festival. It runs all weekend long.

This is not the double album released as the “Woodstock” movie soundtrack.

And it’s not some outtakes, added later.

This is the entire concert. Complete musical performances by every band — all 32 sets, from Richie Havens, Joan Baez, the Who, Sly & the Family Stone, Johnny Winter, Ten Years After, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Santana, Joe Cocker, Canned Heat, The Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin, The Band, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Jimi Hendrix and more.

Every stage announcement. The entire affair (on air from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.).

The “06880” connection — besides the proximity to the studio — is that Jim Motavalli, WPKN’s publicity director — and a 1970 Staples High School graduate — was at Woodstock.

As were, presumably, dozens of other “06880” readers.

And thousands of others, who wish they were.

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Speaking of outdoor concerts: The Levitt Pavilion has a special offer for “06880” readers.

Special “member pricing” tickets are available for tonight’s show, featuring Grammy nominated multi-instrumentalist Andrew Bird. The opening set is Malian duo Amadou & Marian.

Tickets start at $39.25 — 10% off face value. Click here for tickets; enter promo code 50THSeason.

Get ready for another fun night at the Levitt. (Photo/JC Martin)

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Yesterday’s Friday Flashback featured a 1973 New York magazine cover depicting Compo Beach, by Westport artist Albert Hubbell.

I noted that between 1925 and 1989, 16 local illustrators designed 761 covers. An amazing 44 of those show Westport scenes.

So of course at least one other was of Compo Beach.

Dorrie Barlow Thomas quickly responded: “My grandfather, Perry Barlow, was also a cartoonist and cover artist at The New Yorker. His cover of September 13, 1952, was clearly inspired by Compo Beach.”

Indeed it was. That was the 2-story pavilion on the left, before it was damaged by a hurricane.

“06880” welcomes other Westport-inspired New Yorker covers — beach scenes or otherwise. Email 06880blog@gmail.com.

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Tomorrow’s Family Day (Sunday) at MoCA CT promises — well, fun for the whole family.

The noon to 2 p.m. schedule includes art, music, gallery exhibitions, handcrafted items for sale, and ice cream treats will be in abundance—no matter the weather.

Among the highlights: interactive African drumming, storytelling with Timbalooloo, and “create your own masterpiece” with a MoCA art instructor.

The “ColleCTomania” exhibit, featuring an assortment of poster art, is open too.

It’s free for MoCA members, $20 for non-members ($5 for children under 5). Click here for more information.

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Catching up with Ben Casparius: The 2017 Staples High School graduate is ranked #23 of all Los Angeles Dodger prospects, by MLB.com.

The 6-2, 215-pound pitcher plays for their AAA affiliate, in Oklahoma City. He spent 2 yeas at the University of North Carolina, then transferred to the University of Connecticut, where he led the Big East in strieouts.

He had a 5.18 ERA in his first 3 pro seasons, before finding more success in AA and AAA this year.

MLB says, “Los Angeles continues to develop Casparius as a starter, but he looks like more of a multi-inning reliever for the long run. He almost never uses a changeup, has battled walks throughout his pro career and lacks fastball command. His slider is a legitimate weapon that could be useful in high-leverage situations.”

At Staples, Casparius led the Wreckers to the 2017 state championship. He was Connecticut’s Gatorade Player of the Year, among other honors, and graduated as the state’s all-time hits leader.

Click here for more details. (Hat tip: John McCarthy)

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Speaking of sports: Rebecca Schachter — a rising junior at Staples — is the captain of the varsity girls squash team.

It’s well deserved: She is a very competitive squash player on the national stage, reaching a rank of #30 nationally.

Rebecca loves the sport, and wants other girls to love it too.

She has partnered with Intensity Squash to create Girls Power Squash: a program for elementary school girls

Staples athletes will work with an Intensity pro squash member in weekly clinics to introduce elementary girls to the sport — and mentor them.

Sunday sessions run from 3:15 to 4 p.m., September 15 through November 24. The cost is $330.

Click here to sign up. Questions? Email Rebecca: esinfo@westportsquash.org.

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Speaking still of sports: Though the Staples field hockey team is coming off their 5th state championship in 8 years, freshman numbers are low. So far, only 9 players have registered.

The 9th grade squad is developmental; no experience is necessary, and there are no cuts. Tryouts begin August 22.  septemberstevens@yahoo.com for more information.

2023 state champion Staples field hockey team.

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Longtime Westport resident Nina Streitfeld died Thursday, at home.

A celebration of her life will be held in the Westport Library’s Brooks Room tomorrow (Sunday, August 18, 1:30 p.m.), with a gathering an minyan to follow at 4 p.m. at her house. She was 92.

The New York native grew up with a love for the outdoors.

She edited the literary magazine, and graduated second in her class, at James Madison High School. She performed in plays at Swarthmore College, and thrived in the school’s intellectual rigor and down-to-earth culture.

After earning a master’s degree in literature from Columbia University, she held communications and public relations jobs with ABC News, Visiting Nurses of Brooklyn, and the Traveler’s Aid Society. She covered the 1956 rescue of passengers from the Andrea Doria liner when it sank off the coast of Nantucket.  

 In 1957, Nina married Frank Streitfeld, an internist, and moved to Westport. With physician friends including Al and Jean Beasley, and Danny and Judy Doctor, the couple co-founded the medical center at the corner of King’s Highway North and Wilton Road.  

Nina raised a daughter and son in Westport until she divorced and moved with her children to Neponsit, New York in 1968. She was vice president of Adams Oil Company in Brooklyn, PR director of Leisure Tech in New Jersey, and led press relations for New York Congressman James Scheuer. 

 In 1974, Nina appeared as an impostor on the TV game show To Tell the Truth, cramming for hours before the taping to learn about speedboat racing.She persuaded the celebrity panel that she was the world’s only woman offshore speedboat racer.  

After more than a decade in New York and New Jersey, Nina returned with her kids to Westport in 1978. She worked for William Pitt Realty and Kerr Kelly before founding her own PR firm, Nina Streitfeld Inc. The Public Relations Society of America recognized Nina with the Silver Anvil award and inducted her as a fellow.  

In Westport, Nina volunteered with Friends of Music planning classical concerts, welcomed visitors on United Nations Day, and served on the board of Save Westport Now. She played a leading role in a community theater production of “Steel Magnolias.” She traveled frequently too.

In the 1990s she learned Japanese. For her work as president of the Japan Society of Fairfield County, the Japanese consul in New York honored Nina with a ceremony and reception.

Her family says, “Nina was a strong feminist and role model. She was generous with family and friends and inspired many in her circle to care well for loved ones. Nina valued higher education, working hard and setting ambitious goals.”

Survivors include her sister Martha (Karl), of Berkeley, California; daughter Laura of Chapel Hill, North Carolina; son David (Deb) of Berkeley; grandchildren Thea and Kai; nephew Aaron, and numerous cousins. 

Contributions in Nina’s memory may be made to Swarthmore College and the 92nd Street Y. 

Nina Streitfeld

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You never know what you’ll find in your garden watering container.

Chuck Greenlee spotted this tree frog.

He was only 2 1/2 inches — about the size of this “Westport … Naturally” photo.

But he sure covered a lot of territory.

(Photo/Chuck Greenlee)

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And finally … Maurice Williams, the singer and songwriter whose 1960 single “Stay” was hit for his group the Zodiacs, then was covered by many others include the Four Seasons and Jackson Browne, died earlier this month in Charlotte. He was 86.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Stay! Just for a few seconds — long enough to click here, and make a tax-deductible contribution to “06880.” Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Obituaries, Sports

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Roundup: Birds Of Prey, Little Lanternflies, Nice Threads …

Posted on July 12, 2024 | 4 comments

Several years ago, Earthplace lost its longtime supplier of donated raptor food.

Now they have to raise $24,000 each year, to feed birds of prey that have found a home at the environmental and educational non-profit.

Among them: Moody and Marble. The barred owls arrived at Earthplace 12 years ago, with injuries that prevented them from surviving on their own.

They’ve been cared for ever since. Today, they are beloved by all who visit.

Generous donors have pledged a match up to $12,000. Between now and July 31, all tax-deductible gifts are doubled. Reaching that goal would feed all the Earthplace raptors for a year.

Click here to contribute, and for more information.

Earthplace owl.

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Speaking of nature: Linda Montecalvo read yesterday’s Roundup item about the return of spotted lanternflies.

She sends a photo of young ones, who seem to be everywhere. “People might want to ID them in their yards, since they look so different than the adults,” she writes.

Here they are — looking both beautiful and gross:

(Photo/Linda Montecalvo)

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The end is here for 246 Hillspoint Road.

The century-old cottage — the last of its kind facing Old Mill Beach — is being demolished today.

In its place: a new home. Surprisingly, given the town=wide trend, it will be non-overpowering, non-towering, and designed with its tiny lot in mind.

Early this morning … (Photo/Totney Benson)

… and less than an hour ago. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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“06880” likes to highlight local businesses, and their community work.

Suzanne Sherman Propp gives a shout-out to Nice Threads.

Tim Nash’s Kings Highway North company Nice Threads provides custom- decorated merchandise to schools and businesses around New England. Their logo-wear and swag is well known and popular throughout Westport.

Suzanne — who often uses Nice Threads to create materials for Greens Farms Elementary School, where she teaches — recently recommended Nash’s firm to he rsister Caroline, whose Broadway show “Empire The Musical” opened off-Broadway yesterday. (Spoiler alert: It’s about construction of the Empire State Building.)

Caroline and Suzanne’s niece Sophia Sherman (Staples High School Class of 2018) created the “Empire” logo. Her father Alex Sherman (Staples ’85) created the slogan: “A New Musical Based on a True Building.”

Tim helped Caroline put the logo and slogan — which has been plastered on taxis, buses, billboards and garbage cans throughout New York — on hats, water bottles and t-shirts.

It’s a great partnership. But even though 2 generations of Shermans were involved, Tim’s family has a much longer Westport pedigree.

Daniel Nash helped found the town, in 1835.

And his relatives have been in what was then Norwalk — on the pond that now bears their name — since at least 1701.

The “Empire” logo on New York buses is available on locally made swag too.

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Helen McAlinden returned this week from the National Conference on Ending Homelessness, followed by a day of meetings with legislators on Capitol Hill.

Both events provided opportunities for service providers, leaders, advocates, and people with lived experience of homelessness to learn from each other, discuss best practices, and share innovations in the field.

McAlinden — the CEO of Homes with Hope, Westport’s non-profit organization addressing homelessness and hunger — met personally with Senator Chris Murphy, Congressman Jim Himes, and aides to Senator Richard Blumenthal.

Helen McAlinden (3rd from left) and Rep. Jim Himes (far right), in the Connecticut congressman’s Washington office.

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Tonight’s free Levitt Pavilion show is a don’t-miss event, for fans of many musical genres.

Black Opry Revue honors the significant, and often overlooked, contributions of Black artists to country, blues, folk and Americana music.

The lawn opens at 6:30 (Friday, July 12). The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Click here for information, and free tickets.

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between July 3 and 10.

a 20-year-old Weston man was arrested for larceny, identity theft and receipt of goods from illegal use of a credit card. He allegedly stole credit cards from a Westport Weston Family YMCA locker room, then used them in the SoNo Mall.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 15 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 9
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 9
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 8
  • Driving while texting: 3
  • Distracted driving: 3
  • Failure to renew registration: 3
  • Simple trespass: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 2
  • Reckless driving: 1
  • Illegal entry to a limited access highway: 1
  • Improper turn: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to carry a license: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

Not everyone can drive on the Merritt Parkway. Trucks, buses and other large vehicles are prohibited.

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Pink Aid is a wonderful organization. They do wonderful work, supporting women and families in the area impacted by breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Pink Aid provides compassionate support, critical resources and emergency financial assistance.

But they can’t do it alone.

On July 22 (11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.), a “Play 4 Pink Aid” event at Rolling Hills Country Club will raise crucial funds.

They’ve covered all their bases. “Play” opportunities include golf, tennis, pickleball, mah jongg and canasta.

Every attendee receives a code for a $125 shopping spree from fashion sponsor Golftini. Click here to register, and for more details.

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MoCA CT’s Artisan Marketplace Summer Series continues this Sunday (July 14, noon to 4 p.m.).

It’s a chance to support local artisans and their creations — jewelry, pottery, textiles, artwork — in an outdoor setting. Click here for details.

MoCA’s unique building, on Newtown Turnpike.

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Playing with Legos is a growing-up experience for many children. Their parents participate with varying degrees of enthusiasm.

Abby Margolis Newman dreaded the time her middle son Aaron spent with the interlocking pieces.

But he loved it — so much so that it became his career. He found an adult community of Lego lovers, learned Danish, was hired by the company as a designer, and has built a career with them.

Recently, Abby — a 1979 Staples High School graduate — got a glimpse into her son’s world, on a trip to New York. She writes movingly about her new understanding of the importance of Legos in his life, in an essay published Monday in the Los Angeles Times. Click here to read.

Abby Margolis Newman

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Before the town of Westport bought Longshore in 1960 ($1.9 million, including the golf course, tennis courts, pool, Inn and more), it was a failing country club.

That’s about $16 million, in today’s dollars.

Seth Schachter spotted a remnant of those 1950s-era days on eBay. This pin is for sale, for $59.90. (In 1960, it would have gone for $7.50.)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” comes from Wakeman Town Farm.

Alice shows off her 3-day-old baby, Raisin. (She has another baby, named Apricot.)

They’re the newest additions, at the always-exciting Cross Highway farm.

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … Rod Argent — founding member, keyboardist and songwriter of one of the most underrated ’60s groups, the Zombies — will retire from touring, after a recent stroke. The band canceled all upcoming tours. (Hat tip: Michael Taylor)

(It’s always the time of the season to support “06880.” Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thanks for your help!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Environment, Longshore, Police

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Roundup: Oystercatchers, Lanternflies, ADUs …

Posted on July 4, 2024 | 4 comments

Several “06880” readers want to know: How did the American oystercatchers — whose nests are protected on Compo’s South Beach — fare during the fireworks?

Jess Esposito-Halka — coastal water bird technician with Audubon Connecticut — reports: “Overall, the event went well. Everyone we chatted with was happy to know we were there to monitor the birds, and most were respectful of keeping their distance from the fence line.

“A couple of drone issues were resolved as the evening went on. No birds were injured.

“The actual display was quite traumatic for the chick, who was left alone while the parents fled the area. But all was okay after the display’s finale, and the parents returned.

“I went back yesterday morning to check in. The parents and chick were resting along the lower fence line, likely exhausted from the late night.

“Six fish crows were causing some disturbance due to some trash inside the fenced area, I removed it this morning before I left.”

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Speaking of the environment: Nikola Freeman writes with a message about a very common invasive plant — the tree of heaven — and the very invasive spotted lanternflies that feed on it.

In his yard, and throughout his neighborhood, Nikola saw them everywhere.

“Now is a great time to take action,” Nikola says. “The flies are still small and grouped together.

“Spray the flies with vinegar to kill them off, and cut down as many of these weeds as possible whenever you see them. This helps take their food source away.”

Spotted lanternflies on tree of heaven, at Winslow Park last year. (Photo/Michael Mossman)

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Accessory dwelling units are now legal.

What to know more about these detached structures, which open Westport’s housing stock to residents looking to downsize, those who cannot afford to rent larger homes, and those who want to move into a smaller place on their own property, while renting out their larger home? (They’re also great for au pairs and nannies.)

A Westport Library program (July 10, 7 p.m.) features Sheri Koones in conversation with Danielle Dobin, former Planning & Zoning Commission chair.

Koones’ book, “ADUs: The Perfect Housing Solution,” profiles 25 attractive, well-designed and energy efficient ADUs across North America.

Click here for more information.

Accessory dwelling unit, on Greens Farms Road.

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Sunday morning will be a quiet time at Compo Beach — especially compared to Tuesday’s fireworks, and today’s (dependent on the weather) holiday crowd.

But it’s the perfect spot for the summer 8:30 a.m. community worship service. This week’s host is the United Methodist church of Westport and Weston, led by Rev. Heather Sinclair.

Pivot Ministries — a faith-based residential treatment program in Bridgeport and Norwalk — will provide inspiring music and testimonies.  An offering will be collected to support their ministry.

Services run every Sunday through August 18, each week hosted by one of four churches: Green’s Farms Congregational, Norfield Congregational, Saugatuck Congregational Church and UMC.

A beach pass is not needed; tell the gate attendant  you are there for worship.  Bring a beach chair. Dress is casual. All are welcome.

Rev. Heather Sinclair leads a Sunday beach service last year.

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Speaking of Compo Beach: By yesterday morning — just hours after the last blast — Parks & Recreation crews had cleaned every pizza box, flip-flop, tent and table left behind.

It’s a remarkable transformation. And it meant that couples like this one could go back to enjoying the sun and sand, without sharing their space with 10,000 other people.

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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Google says there are 42,998 Subway locations worldwide.

It would have been just 1 shy of 43,000, but the Westport location closed a couple of years ago. (It’s now Savvy Smoker. Go figure.)

But there’s one fewer Subway on that list. The Southport location, a few yards over the border — where Westport teenagers and others craving a turkey, tuna or other have had to go — closed Monday.

The nearest one now is on Route 1 in Norwalk, near Marshalls, Truly Greek and the Staples office supply store.

Southport Subway. (Hat tip and photo/Seth Schachter)

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Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — celebrates today. Looking red, white and cute!

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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Photographer Julie O’Connor is the Westport Book Shop exhibitor for July. A reception is set for July 17 (6 to 7:30 p.m.).

Julie O’Connor

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Ruth Hartmann Kaufman — a longtime Westport resident, and former Staples High School teacher — died last month. She was 93.

The Passau, Germany native arrived with her family in June 1938 through Ellis Island. She lived in Troy and Albany, New York from 1938 until 1948, when she received a scholarship to Cornell University.

After graduating she married Arthur Kaufman. They were together for 77 years ,and married for 72.

Ruth earned a master’s degree from New York University in 1970. That year she began teaching new and somewhat controversial courses at Staples High School: Values Clarification, Family Relations, and Human Sexuality.

She continued teaching for more than 2 decades at Staples with her mentor and friend, Robert Selverstone.

Her family calls Ruth “a good teacher,  listener and friend to hundreds of young students as they flourished in their lives, relationships, ambitions and personal development.”

After teaching at Staples she became a travel agent. She explored the world with her husband, visiting cities, forests and countries on every continent.

She enjoyed tennis, rollerblading, skiing, hiking and baking desserts. Ruth and Arthur moved to Seattle in 2000, joining their daughter and grandchildren for another 25 years of hiking in the Pacific Northwest.

Ruth was grateful for the beauty of Westport all her life and spoke warmly of her many friends, the town’s beautiful beaches, and her family’s homes on West Ambler Road, High Point Road, and Covlee Drive.

Ruth is survived by her husband; their children Kenneth, Ronald, Douglas, Theodore and Catherine, and 18 grandchildren. Ruth’s family can be reached by email: Ron@RonKaufman.com.

Ruth Kaufman

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It’s Fresh Market osprey time again at “Westport … Naturally.”

Nearly every photo we’ve run has shown a color close-up of the magnificent raptors.

This one is different.

But still majestic.

(Photo/William Weiss)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming forum on accessory dwelling units (story above):

Bonus local connection: The animation above was created by Westport’s own Jeff Scher.

(Our blog is a very, very, very fine blog. To help keep it going, please donate by clicking here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Environment, Library, Local business, Obituaries, Real estate, religion, Restaurants

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Roundup: Solidarity Rally, Community Gardens, Leaf Blowers …

Posted on October 9, 2023 | 1 comment

Following Hamas’ invasion, the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County quickly organized a “We Stand with Israel” solidarity gathering.

It’s tonight: Monday, October 9, 7:30 p.m. at Temple Israel (14 Coleytown Road, Westport). Registration is required; click here.

The event will also be livestreamed; click here for the link.

Hosts include:

  • Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County
  • Temple Israel
  • The Conservative Synagogue
  • B’nai Israel
  • Chabad of Westport
  • Or Hadash
  • Temple Shalom
  • Beth El Norwalk
  • Congregation Shir Shalom
  • Congregation for Humanistic Judaism
  • ADL CT
  • BBYO CT
  • Chabad of Fairfield
  • Chabad of Ridgefield
  • Ahavath Achim
  • Beit Chaverim
  • Congregation Rodeph Sholom
  • Congregation Ahavath Achim
  • Congregation Bikur Cholim
  • Congregation Mishkan Israel

Attendees are asked to not bring large bags or purses.

The Federation has also opened a fund to help victims of terror, and provide trauma support. Click here to donate.

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Amid controversy over its future, the Westport Community Gardens held a 20th anniversary Fall Harvest Party yesterday.

Kids got tattoos. The Big Green Pizza Truck served pies, salads, cappuccino and gelato.

And the band played on.

(Photos/Lou Weinberg)

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Also yesterday:

The Small Car Company’s annual Air-Cooled Charity Car Show on Veterans Green.

The event raised funds and awareness for 2 non-profits: Northeast Community Cycles (which provides bikes free of charge to underprivileged children) and the Bikeport Co-Op (a program where youth earn bikes by attending bike safety and maintenance courses, and performing volunteer hours with local organizations).

The show featured dozens of vintage Porsches, Volkswagens, Corvairs and other rare and special air-cooled cars and motorcycles from around the tri-state area.

Among the air-cooled vehicles on display at Veterans Green. (Photo/Sarathi Roy)

Meanwhile, adjacent to the Artists Collective of Westport trunk show in the Taylor parking lot, Earthplace naturalist Rachel Grella showed off a ball python, on Jesup Green. Its audience had a variety of reactions.

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For this week’s 3 candidate debates, questions must be submitted in advance. They will not be taken from the floor. Questions should be emailed to lwvwestportct@yahoo.com.

Planning & Zoning Commission candidates take the Town Hall auditorium stage Wednesday (October 11, 7 p.m.). They’re followed by a double-header on Thursday, October 12: the Board of Education at 7 p.m., Board of Finance at 8:15.

The debates are sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Westport.

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A reminder: Beginning next Monday (October 15), gas-powered leaf blowers are allowed every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., except holidays.

Property owners are responsible for informing landscapers who work on their property.  

Homeowners doing their own yard work have extended hours: weekdays 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; weekends and holidays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Beginning May 15, no gas-powered leaf blowers will be allowed through October 15, except in specific situations (for example a health or safety emergency, or storm cleanup).

Property owners should inform landscapers now, so they can plan to buy any necessary equipment before May 15. (Hat tip: Kristin Schneeman)

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Speaking of the environment: Spotted lanternflies continue to be an invasive pest.

Westporters have been stomping on them like crazy.

Here’s another idea, spotted (ho ho) at Sherwood Island State Park yesterday:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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Lauren Bullock recently resigned, after teaching for 16 years in the Westport Public Schools.

But she had another career too. She wrote, directed and produced a short film, “Tough Love.” It’s been nominated for Excellence in Directing and Outstanding Lead Actress awards by the 2023 Pitch to Screen Festival.

“A young, attractive bartender is crazed by a traumatic childhood after the death of her father. Constantly questioning her self-worth and duplicity, Lana struggles to find love as she seeks affection from strangers. She is burdened by the remnants of patriarchy, religion, and bad choices as she is faced with her own reflection. Lana must look in the mirror and confront her past in order to move on.”

It’s available for public viewing online for 4 days only (October 12-16); click here for details. It then moves to the big screen, at Manhattan’s Dolby Theater, on October 20.

Half of the film was shot in and around Westport last spring. A few local actors were in the cast.

Winners of festival awards will be determined by viewers’ votes.

Click here for the Bullock Productions website. Click below for the “Tough Love” trailer.

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A Senior Center audience of over 120 attendees was entertained yesterday by the Gramercy Brass Orchestra.

The invitation came from Senior Center board member Molly Alger. She was on the Gramercy Board for 20 years, before moving from New York to Westport.

Her son Jason was a student at the United Nations International School, where orchestra leader/trumpeter John Henry Lambert taught — and took private lessons from him too.

Gramercy Brass Orchestra at the Senior Center. Leader John Henry Lambert is at far right. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Canal Road, on Saugatuck Shores. Humans have made their mark there — but it’s still filled with natural wonders.

(Photo/Gene Borio)

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Roundup: RTM Agendas, Rev. Hoskins Tribute, Bagels …

Posted on September 5, 2023 | 12 comments

John McCarthy is trying again.

This morning, the former Representative Town Meeting member brings another petition to the RTM and town clerk.

This one — signed by more than 20 Westport electors — asks the RTM to vote on a resolution at its October 3 meeting, affirming that the word “shall” means “mandatory,” as already defined in the Town Charter and the RTM Rules of Procedure.

If passed, the resolution would “compel and require” the moderator to place on the RTM agenda any petition signed by at least 20 electors at least 14 days prior to a meeting.

The impetus for McCarthy’s petition is a previous attempt to add an agenda item to tonight’s meeting regarding a review of the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee’s goals, process and proposed plan for Parker Harding Plaza.

The request — signed by over 50 electors, and verified by the town clerk — was denied by RTM moderator Jeffrey Wieser. His decision was affirmed in an opinion by assistant town attorney (and former RTM moderator) Eileen Lavigne Flug.

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In other RTM news, members Seth Braunstein and Matthew Mandell have  proposed an ordinance to create an Affordable Housing Fund.

A first reading is on the agenda for tonight’s meeting (Tuesday, September 5, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

“Creating a fund to accrue monies for the purchase of land, construction of housing and/or the buydown of market rate housing both aids the establishment of such homes and gives the town greater control over its own destiny,” the 2 members say.

In 2022 the Westport Planning & Zoning Commission adopted an Affordable Housing Plan, under state statute 8-30j, which called for the creation of such a fund. This ordinance follows through on that request.

Following RTM committee discussions, Braunstein and Mandell hope for a full vote at next month’s meeting. The next step would be for the P&Z to create a regulation to fund the initiative.

Among Westport’s current affordable housing options: Sasco Creek Village.

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Sunday’s Saugatuck Congregational Church service honored their late, longtime senior and youth minister Rev. Ted Hoskins.

Among those at the pulpit: Rev. Peter Powell. Forty years ago, he worked with Rev. Hoskins to establish a homeless shelter and food pantry here.

In a tribute to both Rev. Hoskins and the church, Rev. Powell said:

“In my experience Ted lived the charge given in Matthew 25. As you read his obituary you could not fail to see how he fed the hungry, gave drink to the thirsty, welcomed the stranger, clothed the naked, healed the sick and visited those in prison.

“Some examples from my experience. The Westport Emergency Shelter was a response to homeless, now better described as unhoused, men sleeping in a room in this church. The legacy lives on. The Gillespie Center has 15 beds because Saugatuck Church found 7 bunk beds and 1 cot for the men.

“These beds were moved over to the Vigilant Firehouse. The Westport/Weston Health Department came in, measured the space and determined the number of cubic feet each bed required. When I pointed out that they backed into that number they refused to change.

“The Linxweiler House was empty, and Ted established a program he called Operation Bootstraps there. Unfortunately that program didn’t work, but with the guidance of Jim Gillespie the program was transformed into a sober house requiring all residents to have a job and stay sober. It worked for many years. It was a Ted legacy.

“In my early years at the Interfaith Housing Association Ted visited the firehouse and gave $100 bills to the night staff on Christmas Eve, the anniversary of our opening. He was always involved.

“In the early ’90s when I needed a new office, he gave me and IHA space in this building. I was here for a few years.

“Ted was your pastor, but he was also pastor to the town of Westport…. A conversation with Ted could resolve difficult issues. He was our social conscience. You shared him with the town. His shoes have never been filled as the acknowledged religious leader and social action conscience of Westport.

“When the unhoused men moved to the firehouse with Ted’s leadership, you opened your building to 12-step programs, helping Westport become a center for recovery for the entire region.

“I believe Ted could do all of this because he was your pastor. Hhe loved you and you loved him, and you both knew you were in love. He was a very public figure and crucial to the development of social action in Westport, but first he loved and cared for you. He did not wag his finger at you; he taught you how to respond to the Gospel. He had the credibility to do that because he was first and foremost your pastor. He visited, counseled, baptized, worshiped, married, buried and preached to you with a deep understanding of who you are and together you and he transformed Westport. He could not have done it without you ,and you could only do it because it was intrinsic to his life with you.

“Thank you for sharing him with all of us.”

Rev. Ted Hoskins

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Sunday’s Roundup noted a second epidemic of dozens of bagels spread around High Gate Road. This time there was a plastic bag, with many more bagels, nearby.

Last winter there was a similar scene at the same spot, off Maple Avenue South.

“Weird,” I wrote yesterday.

I soon received an email from “Peter T.” He said: “Regarding the Bagels on High Gate Road, they are there for the Deer to eat along with the cracked corn. Nothing weird about it!”

I asked who put them there, and whether he knew if deer liked bagels.

This time, “Nancy” responded (from the same email address). She wrote: “I live on the street and yes deer like the bagels and cracked corn that is out there.”

I asked about the unopened plastic bag. She said: “Why does it matter. The neighhood feeds the deer all year long”

A Google search reveals that bread (and I put bagels in that category) can be dangerous to deer. Corn can be deadly too.

Meanwhile, a reader points out, “deer around here eat everything that grows. They are hooved rats. And since it’s summer, they don’t lack in food sources.”

If last winter was any indication, those bagels will stay out on High Gate for weeks.

Unlike the mice and rats get them first.

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Lachat Farms’ grand (re-)opening was this past weekend.

In today’s “What’s Next in Weston” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor and Carol Baldwin, president of the Friends of Lachat Town Farm, discuss funding of improvements, and programs coming soon.

Click below to listen. The podcast is a service of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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The big space recently vacated by Bed Bath & Beyond on US 1 — just over the border in Norwalk — will be filled in November.

The new tenant is a combination Bob’s/Eastern Mountain Sports store.

Bob’s Stores (sports clothing, shoes) is moving from Main Avenue to where Bed Bath and Beyond was on Westport Avenue in November. (Hat tip: Bruce Schneider)

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This was a big weekend at Lime Rock — and not just for the 3 Westport race car drivers mentioned in Sunday’s Roundup.

Roger Kaufman writes: “I was stunned and honored to be given an award Sunday at the Lime Rock annual Labor Day weekend, festival and car show. It was Best in Class in the ‘Swedish category.'”

“My trusty 1963 Volvo 122S, which I’ve owned for 40 years, was a Westport car. It was sold by Lillian Oster and imported in 1963 via Larry Terrino on the Post Road. It’s my third one, and a tried and true companion for almost half a century.

“I had never been to Lime Rock or done many car shows until recently. But I decided to give it a whirl.

“It was of interest yesterday to the folks at Lime Rock that when Paul Newman saw the car in Weston around 2007), he came over to me at Peter’s Market, where he was bagging groceries with Joanne.

“He stuck his head in the driver’s side window and said, ‘what a great car !’ Cars were his hobby, and we had a great chat.

Roger Kaufman’s ’63 Volvo.

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When most people rudely reserve picnic tables at Compo’s South Beach, they simply throw a tablecloth over the top, pretending not to see the “Picnic Tables May Not Be Reserved” sign.

Yesterday, the stakes got a little higher.

Here’s how one aggressive picnicker claimed his (or her) spot:

(Photo/Sallie Pecora-Saipe)

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Meanwhile, Sunday was also a perfect late-summer day.

The kind of evening to head to the beach, and celebrate without a care in the world.

(Photo/Harry Mortner)

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Reports are swarming in of spotted lanternfly sightings — and killings.

Ken Yormark squashed one inside Home Foods.

Mary Foss-Skiftesvik spotted the invasive species on her Saugatuck Island dock and garden:

(Photo/Mary Foss-Skiftesvik)

And Dave Shea writes: “While kayaking Monday morning, I found this floating halfway between Compo and Cockenoe.

“While I gave the little bugger credit for being a good swimmer, I did my civic duty, then buried him at sea.”

(Photo/Dave Shea)

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Janine Scotti sends along today’s beautiful “Westport … Naturally” photo — and its back story:

“What do you give a chef who is also the salt of the earth for his 74th birthday (coming soon)?

“A plot at the magnificent Westport Community Gardens. My beloved husband Pietro [former owner of Da Pietro restaurant] was in awe of the gardens, He is thrilled to be a part of this thriving community.

“I just gave him a private dusk tour. He wanted to see all the beauty of every plot. Hats off to you all!”

Pietro Scotti, with a giant sunflower. (Photo/Janine Scotti)

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And finally … on this day in 1836, Sam Houston was elected first president of the Republic of Texas.

(“06880” is where Westport meets Texas — and the world. If you’re from here, there or anywhere, and you like this blog, please support our work. Just click here. And thank y’all.)

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Roundup: School Security, Spotted Lanternflies, Slice of Saugatuck …

Posted on August 30, 2023 | 9 comments

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

Police Chief Foti Koskinas joins 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker to discuss why, how and where additional school security personnel will be added soon.

Click below to hear their conversation. The podcast is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Spotted lanternflies are a highly invasive species.

And they thrive on another invasive pest: trees of heaven.

Infestations have been reported around Westport, including Winslow and Grace Salmon Parks.

The Connecticut Agricultural Experimental Station says:

The spotted lanternfly Lycorma delicatula, (SLF) was first found in North America in Pennsylvania in late 2014. It is an exotic, invasive sap-feeding planthopper that has the potential to severely impact Connecticut’s agricultural crops, particularly apples, grapes, and hops, and ornamental trees. Spotted lanternfly adults feed on more than 70 species of plants. Its preferred host tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is highly invasive and is abundant along highways, in urban areas, and along the edges of agricultural and industrial areas, where the spotted lanternfly could easily become established.

Approximately half of Connecticut’s trees are threatened by spotted lanternfly invasion according to data from Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). As spotted lanternfly nymphs and adults feed on the sap from trees and vines, the entire plant can become weakened because it cannot conduct photosynthesis as effectively. The excretions from these leaf-hopping insects encourage the growth of black sooty mold, thereby reducing photosynthesis. Agricultural crops will have reduced yields due to SLF feeding on fruit and generally weakening plants, if not completely destroying them.

To learn more about the pest, click here. Sightings (including, if possible, photos) should be reported to state environmental authorities, using this form. (Hat tip: Tracy Porosoff)

(Photo/Stacie Weiser Waldman)

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Speaking of nature: Paul Rohan writes, “The other morning on my morning walk on Hillspoint Road ner Valley Road, I spotted 2 young deer eating grass at the edge of the road.

“I then saw a coyote run up Lookout Lane and enter Hillspoint to approach the deer. As he was halfway across the road he spotted me. He did an about face, ran back down the lane, and quickly disappeared in the underbrush.

“Over the years I have seen a few coyotes in the area, but only before daybreak.  This was around 8 a.m. Please alert readers with small dogs or other pets who might be in the area in the early morning to be aware of this coyote situation.”

Not the Hillspoint Road coyote.

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If it’s late summer/early fall, it must be time for the Slice of Saugatuck.

The 11th annual event — a fun food/merchant experience in Westport’s most walkable neighborhood — is set for Saturday, September 9 (2 to 5 p.m.).

This year, over 40 businesses will participate in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event.

Over 2 dozen venues will offer tastes from their menus. Live music will play at 7 locations, with favorite bands like Otis & the Hurricanes, Silver Steel, Mill River Band, the Howling Barncats, Elana Zarabi and Accidental Breakdown.

Bouncy houses are back. New this year: a face painter for the kids.

Beer Gardens (with wine) on Bridge Square and Railroad Place will be complemented by restaurants offering specialty drinks. Many venues will continued the festivities with happy hour offerings after the Slice ends.

The price is again $15 for adults, $5 for children under 13, free for age 5 and under. Tickets are sold on-site only, beginning at 1:50 p.m.

Slice of Saugatuck is one of the best events on the local calendar. It’s also a great cause. Over the years, the Chamber has donated more than $44,000 to the Gillespie Center’s food pantry .

For more information — including a map of participants —  click here.

Lining up for samples, on Railroad Place

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Mike Ronemus and a few friends have been thinking about it for, oh, only 25 years or so.

On Monday, they finally did it: They swam from Compo Beach to Cokenoe Island.

And back.

They began at 6 a.m. A kayak, stand-up paddleboard and 2 boats escorted them through the channel.

It took between 1 1/2 and 1 3/4 hours to cover the 2 1/2 miles.

Congratulations to Mike, and fellow adventure swimmers Tom Bottini, Chris Coffin, Kevin Huelster, Bruce Koffsky, Andy Ludel, Mary Money, Ric Nadel, Leila Shields, Clay Tebbits.

And welcome back to land!

Halfway there! There swimmers at Cockenoe Island.

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A pair of local realtors recently sent out a newsletter, touting — among other things — a popular Westport restaurant.

Next time, they (or their proofreader) might want to do a more thorough job. (Hat tip: Francoise Jaffe)

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Of course there’s lobster at the Friends of Sherwood Island State Park’s annual Shorefest celebration.

But there’s also salmon and steak (with catering by Westfair Fish & Chips). Plus music by Westport Jenny Ong’s classical trio. And as always, a chance to party with fellow park-lovers.

This year’s event is September 8 (6 to 9 p.m., main pavilion). A silent auction includes tours of Prospect Gardens and Aspetuck brew lab, a fishing charter with Westport captain Blake Smith, and gift certificates to local restaurants.

Proceeds help fund 140 feet of new dunes, with 3,600 American beach grass plants; invasive species eradication; an owl habitat restoration project; fall and spring tree plantings; the Nature Center intern program, and speakers on raptors, horseshoe crabs, turtles and insects.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The Tennis Channel is listed on the NASDAQ. For the past 12 years, they’ve celebrated the start the US Open by ringing the morning bell.

Yesterday morning, the ringers included Cayne Mandell. The 2017 Staples High School and 2021 Syracuse University sports management graduate is an ad sales marketing coordinator for TC.

The NASDAQ bell was not his only perk. He’ll be in the Tennis Channel corporate suite during the event too.

Cayne Mandell, larger than life.

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Allan Friedman has led bike trips for a decade — ever since his first Backroads journey to Tuscany in 2013. He then biked through California and Canada, and now leads urban tours in areas like New York, New Haven and Washington.

On September 12 (Saugatuck Congregational Church; 6:15 p.m. dinner; 7:30 p.m. presentation), he’s the Appalachian Mountain Club’s dinner guest speaker. His topic: ”Adventures Abound — Ride and Explore!”

The cost is $10 for members, $15 for non-members (payable at the door). Bring a dessert to share. For more information, email easasso7@icloud.com.

 

Allan Friedman

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Eagle-eyed photographer Steve Halstead snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — at the same moment his subject looked, equally intently, for a fish.

(Photo/Steve Halstead)

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And finally … Bob Mummert, the drummer on Roy Orbison’s last tour, died Saturday.

Known for his appearance on the “You Got It” music video, he was also a drummer for the Grand Ole Opry, and a session musician who toured with many famous artists and bands.

(From school security to spotted lanternflies, “06880” is your connection between Westport and the world. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Spotted Lanternfly, Playhouse Benefit, More Theater …

Posted on August 23, 2023 | 10 comments

Spotted lanternflies are back.

At least one.

(Photo/Stephen Rothenberg)

Stephen Rothenberg reports from the Westport Community Gardens: “Spotted, and smushed.”

The SLF is a sap-feeding plant hopper native to China. It is believed to have entered this country as an egg mass stuck to a shipment of stone sent to Pennsylvania in 2012. Since then, that state’s agriculture, vineyards, forests, nurseries and residential areas have suffered serious damage.

The spotted lanternfly made its way into Connecticut in 2021. The state Agricultural Experiment Station issued a quarantine order. The hope is that the pest will be slowed long enough to find a treatment to control or eradicate it.

The beautiful-looking insect affects fruit trees, grapes, hops and ornamental trees. The nymphs (immature stage of the SLF) and adults feed on sap from trees and vines, causing them to weaken. Excretions from the SLF stick to the leaves; black sooty mold grows, reducing the plant’s ability to photosynthesize properly.  This reduce crop yields, and weaken trees and plants further, eventually destroying them.

It can also wreak havoc on lawn furniture, sidewalks, sides of buildings, car tires and everything else outside, making them a sticky mess.

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More guest artists have been added to the Westport Country Playhouse’s benefit concert, “An Evening with Justin Paul & Friends, with Kelli O’Hara and James Naughton” (September 9, 8 p.m.).

Joining Tony, Oscar and Grammy Award-winning (and 2003 Staples High School graduate) Justin Paul are friends from his films, stage musicals, and other projects.

Two are from Westport: former Staples Player Jacob Heimer (Broadway’s “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”), and Stacie Morgain Lewis (“Wicked,” “Sunday in the Park with George,” “Urinetown,” “Titanic”).

Other guests include Loren Allred (vocalist on “Never Enough” from “The Greatest Showman”), Andrew Barth Feldman (“Dear Evan Hansen”); Grammy nominee Mykal Kilgore (“Motown the Musical,” “Hair,” “The Book of Mormon”); Tony winner Aaron Tveit (“Moulin Rouge! The Musical!”), and Jessica Vosk (“Wicked”).

Headlining with Paul (“La La Land,” “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Greatest Showman”) are Kelli O’Hara (Tony Award for “The King and I”), James Naughton (Tony Award for “City of Angels” and “Chicago”), and Greg Naughton (founding member of folk-rock group The Sweet Remains). 

Director Caley Baretta — another former Staples player — is senior manager of creative development at Disney Theatrical Group. Producer Ben Frimmer is well known as Coleytown Middle School’s longtime theater instructor.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Justin Paul

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Speaking of the stage: The Westport Community Theatre’s 66th season begins September 8-24, with “A Picasso.”

It’s followed by “Time Stands Still” (November 10-26), “Love Letters “(February 2-18), “Switzerland” (April 5-21) and a final show, TBA (June 7-23).

Subscriptions are available for the theater, located in the lower level of Town Hall. Click here for information on tickets, and upcoming shows.

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Gil Ghitelman writes:

“It’s been said boat owners enjoy 2 immeasurable highs: First when they buy it,  then when they sell it.

“Dog parents {please don’t call them ‘owners’) achieve nirvana only once. The loss is off the charts on the Richter scale of sadness. No one adopting a pup thinks about the dreaded end. The fact is, our pets just don’t live long enough.

“When word filtered down that we lost our beloved Oskar, we were embraced with tearful hugs from our friends and Oskar’s buddies’ parents. What was especially touching were the kind condolence notes left in our mailbox by our caring Westport neighbors whom we only have a nodding relationship with.  Mega-shoutouts are in order to these compassionate folks.

“When things settle down, we’ll look for another dog to join our family. The local  rabbits that Oskar chased (and never caught) are probably hoping we move slowly on this. I’m sure they think a little respite is in order.”

Oskar

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Arthur Lipner & the Caribbean Cruisers put on quite a show last night, at the Levitt Pavilion. Even the lighting was red-hot.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

Tomorrow night’s show is one of the summer’s big ones: Daryl Hall, with special guest Todd Rundgren.

It sold out quickly. But a few tickets have been returned, by people who now cannot attend.

The gala and cocktail party tickets are for both the pre-concert cocktail party sponsored by Roz and Bud Siegel, at Don Memo and Walrus Alley.

Concert-only tickets are available too for the show made possible by the Arthur & Claudia Cohen Foundation. But everyone can enjoy the Levitt parking lot, as it becomes a plaza with food trucks from the Blind Rhino, Little Pub and College Creamery Ice Cream, plus a full bar operated and sponsored by Rizzuto’s.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Every week, the Westport Rotary Club learns something new.

This week’s subject was Urban Impact of Black Rock.

Executive director Bob Niedermeyer described the organization’s mentorship support for kindergarten through 12th grade students living in Bridgeport’s PT Barnum Public Housing Complex.

100 volunteer mentors form long-term relationships with their students. and become involved in their lives beyond the classroom.

Bob Niedermeyer explains Urban Impact’s impact.

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Staples’ Class of 1965 is one of the most legendary in the high school’s 139-year history. (No, I was not a member. But they blazed the way for us youngsters well.)

To prepare for their 60th reunion in 2 years, they’re scouring the globe for classmates.

Click here to add your name to the database. If you’re not on Facebook, or have questions, email Kaempfer@mcarthurglen.com.

Members of Staples’ Class of 1965 remember when the school was 9 separate buildings. (This view is from 1959; an addition was finished in 1964).

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Former Westporter Betty Lu Grune died peacefully last week in Florida, surrounded by her family. She was 93.

Her father was a US Navy chaplain. Betty Lu lived in many US and international locations. She met her husband, George Grune, at Duke University during the first weeks of college.

Betty Lu graduated from Duke in 1951, with a B.A. in English. She married George in 1952. They lived in Florida, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania before moving to Westport. They were here for 33 years.

Betty Lu was active in the Newcomers Club, PTA and Westport Garden Club. She also served as chapter president of the PEO philanthropic organization.

In 1988 the Grunes retired to Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, where they supported local organizations including the Jacksonville Symphony, Cummer Museum, Players by the Sea, and Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Florida.

Betty Lu was a vibrant participant in countless events in support of her husband, the former chairman and CEO of Reader’s Digest Association. She took great pride in her 3 sons.

Betty Lu was predeceased by her husband George, and siblings Virginia May (Achtmeyer) Adams, Fern Marie Atkin and Francis Lee Albert, Jr. She is survived by her sons George Jr. (Judy) of Fox Chapel, Pennsylvania, and their children Heather, Lindsey and George III; Robert (June) of Ponte Vedra Beach), and their children Alexandra, Robert Jr. and Jordan; and Steven (Nancy) of Darien, and their children Steven Jr, Natalie and Kevin.

A service to celebrate Betty Lu’s life will be held later at the Palms Presbyterian Church, Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Click here to leave an online tribute.

Betty Lu Grune

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Today’s compelling “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from the Community Gardens.

Photographer Lou Weinberg explains: “Compared to other native North American birds, goldfinches are late breeders.

“They start building nests in late June and early July, when thistle and milkweed are going to seed. Goldfinches like to use the seeds in their nests, and also as food for their young.

“The Westport Community Gardens and Long Lots Preserve have ample quantities of thistle and milkweed growing, along with one of their favorites, the sunflower.”

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

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And finally … happy 74th birthday to Rick Springfield!

 (Jessie’s girl, Jessie himself — and everyone else — is invited to contribute to “06880.” Please click here. And thank you!)

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Roundup: Chino Cortez, School, Drought & Lanternflies …

Posted on August 30, 2022 | 3 comments

In December 2020, I posted an email from Katherine Calise.

After a big snowstorm, her trash collector — Chino Cortez of Cortez Refuse — had shoveled his own path to her cans.

“He is the kindest person — all around, the nicest person you could meet,” she wrote. “In the summer he sprays the garbage cans so you will not get sick.”

Others agreed. On social media they praised him for hauling away Christmas trees, making sure cans were safely stored in the wind, and texting customers if they forgot to put the trash out.

The other day, Katherine contacted me again. This time, it was about helping out with Chino’s medical bills.

At work earlier this month, a bungee cord snapped and hit his eye. His retina was severely damaged. He’ll have surgery soon, as doctors try to save his sight.

A grateful customer has organized a GoFundMe campaign. Click here for more information, and to help.

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It’s an annual tradition: On the first day of school, parents take photos of their kids at the Juniper Road/Caccamo Lane bus stop.

Here’s this year’s edition. Parents: Save for posterity. Kids: Don’t be embarrassed — decades from now, you’ll appreciate this.

PS: The little ones on both ends? They’ll be graduating before you know it.

(Photo/Pam Long)

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Speaking of school: The Porch @ Christie’s on Cross Highway is located close to 4 of them: Staples High, Bedford Middle, and Coleytown Middle and Elementary.

It’s also on the route for people heading into and out of Westport.

A good number of folks passing near, or by, are teachers. To celebrate a new school year, The Porch is offering free coffee and tea to all educators, now through September 9, with any purchase (6:30 to 9 a.m.) or salad, bowl, sandwich or grill item (3 to 5 p.m.). Just show your school ID.

What a great way to honor teachers. Owners Bill and Andrea Pecoriello have learned their customer service lessons well.

Free coffee or tea for teachers here.

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Speaking of local businesses that care:

On Sunday, Tutti’s Ristorante held a fundraiser for Jimmy Nuzzo. “DJ Jimmy James” — a friend to the owners (the Funicello family) and many others — needs a new heart and liver. 100% of the proceeds from the $25 penne-and-meatball dinner went to help.

Westporters, Norwalkers and others came through — big time. Tutti’s raised nearly $4,000 for Jimmy.

Maria Funicello asked me to thank the “06880” community. Consider it done — and thank you, Tutti’s, too!

Tutti’s owners Pasquale and Maria Funicello opened their restaurant (and hearts) to Jimmy Nuzzo.

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There are many new families on Ludlow Road, Wright Street and Orchard Lane recently.

So the neighborhood near Old Hill threw an old-fashioned block party on Sunday.

There was food and drinks. Adults chatted; kids romped. It was a great way to come together at the start of the school year.

One attendee suggested that every neighborhood with new families should do the same.

Or how about: Every neighborhood in Westport, with or without newcomers?

Send us your block party photos. Party on!

Seeking shade, and familiar and new faces.

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Weston is taking steps to address its drought.

Yesterday, residents received this message from 1st Selectwoman Samantha Nestor:

“I am reaching out to remind residents that Weston (and all of Fairfield County), have been experiencing Stage 2 drought conditions since mid-July due to below normal precipitation levels across Connecticut. Stage 2 identifies an emerging drought event that could potentially impact water supplies, agriculture, or natural ecosystems.

“Per Governor Lamont, ‘Residents should be mindful of their water consumption and take sensible steps to reduce impacts on other water uses and on the environment. We must begin early steps now to mitigate the potential for harm should the drought become prolonged.'”

Weston asks residents to voluntarily take measure to help reduce the impact of the drought conditions, including:

  • Reduce watering lawns, gardens, and other landscaped areas; if watering is essential, late evening hours are best
  • Avoid burning in or near woodlands or brush-lands
  • Take shorter showers
  • Run dishwashers and clothes washing machines with full loads
  • Shut off water while washing dishes, shaving, brushing teeth, and lathering up to wash hands, rather than running the water continuously
  • Avoid washing vehicles or power-washing homes and other buildings
  • Do not use water to clean sidewalks, driveways, and roads
  • Postpone planting new lawns or vegetation
  • Minimize overall water use by fixing leaky plumbing and fixtures
  • Follow any additional conservation requests

For more information from the Connecticut Drought Information Center, click here. (Hat tip: Gloria Gouveia)

Meanwhile, one more indication that Westport is in a drought too:

Near Levitt Pavilion. (Photo/Seth Schachter)

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Speaking of environmental threats, consider the spotted lanternfly.

It’s crossed Connecticut’s southwest border — that’s us — and could threaten businesses, nurseries and homeowners, causing billions of dollars in damage while devastating the landscape, in 2 years.

The SLF is a sap-feeding plant hopper native to China. It is believed to have entered this country as an egg mass stuck to a shipment of stone sent to Pennsylvania in 2012. Since then, that state’s agriculture, vineyards, forests, nurseries and residential areas have suffered serious damage.

The SLF started making its way into Connecticut last year. The state Agricultural Experiment Station issued a quarantine order. The hope is that the pest will be slowed long enough to find a treatment to control or eradicate it.

The beautiful-looking insect affects fruit trees, grapes, hops and ornamental trees. The nymphs (immature stage of the SLF) and adults feed on sap from trees and vines, causing them to weaken. Excretions from the SLF stick to the leaves; black sooty mold grows, reducing the plant’s ability to photosynthesize properly.  This reduce crop yields, and weaken trees and plants further, eventually destroying them.

Spotted lanternfly

It can also wreak havoc on lawn furniture, sidewalks, sides of buildings, car tires and everything else outside, making them a sticky mess.

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station urges everyone to report any sightings.

If you spot an SLF, kill it right away. Report it here; include a photo if possible. (Hat tip: Susan Iseman)

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Jenni Kayne opened its 4th store last weekend. The location for the “California lifestyle brand” is Sconset Square.

It showcases the interiors arm of Jenni Kayne Home, with furniture set in “real-room environments,: and home accessories. The store also carries Jenni’s skincare line, Oak Essentials.

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“Westport … Naturally” returns to the theme of drought. Deadman Brook looked particularly low the other evening:

(Photo/Seth Schachter)

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And finally … in honor of back-to-school (and The Porch @ Christie’s celebration of teachers — see story above), here’s this long-forgotten Elton John classic.

Okay, the lyrics are not exactly a paean to a classroom education. But still …

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