Tag Archives: Temple Israel

Roundup: Polar Plunge, Jake Thaw, Nile Rodgers, Brad Tursi …

Posted on January 1, 2024 | 10 comments

Sure, it’s short notice.

But you’re going to be spending a very short time in the water, right?

Temple Israel and the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County are sponsoring a Polar Plunge today — Monday, January 1, 11 a.m., at Compo Beach.

It’s a fundraiser for the Israel Emergency Fund.

Donations will help pay for evacuation, transport, housing and support for frontline communities; trauma relief and psychosocial support; emergency medical services and health care, volunteers, and much more, for victims of Hamas’ October 7 attacks.

Click here to register, and more information.

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Whether you’re a football fan or not, Westporters should pay attention to today’s national semifinal game between #1 Michigan and #4 Alabama (January 1, 5 p.m., ESPN).

On the roster for the undefeated Wolverines (that’s Michigan, for you non-football fans):  Jake Thaw.

A Staples High School Class of 2020 graduate (and football and basketball star), he’s a punt return specialist and wide receiver.

Jake is a senior, in the Ross School of Business.

Let’s go, Michigan!

Jake Thaw

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If you invited Nile Rodgers to your New Year’s Eve party, and he said he was already taken: He’s telling the truth.

Our Westport neighbor spent last night in Hollywood. He performed with his band Chic, as part of ABC-TV’s awkwardly named say-goodbye-to-’23 show, the awkwardly named “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”

Here’s a screenshot, in case you really need proof:

(Photo/Matthew Mandell)

Not to be outdone, CBS featured another Westporter: Brad Tursi.

The 1997 Staples High graduate (and former soccer star) is lead guitarist and vocalist with Old Dominion, the multiple award-winning country band.

Brad Tursi. (Photo/Matthew Mandell; hat tips, Neil Brickley and Karen Kramer)

If you know of any other local New Year’s Eve entertainers we missed — José Feliciano? Keith Richards? — click “Comments” below.

ENCORE: CBS featured another Westporter last night too: meteorologist Lonnie Quinn.

Our had a busy night on the tube, for sure. And Matthew Mandell managed to catch all of it.

Lonnie Quinn (left). (Photo courtesy of Matthew Mandell)

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Like many restaurants, La Plage celebrated New Year’s Eve with a special party.

The staff was ready. Here was the scene, a few hours before midnight:

After a brief break starting today, the Longshore restaurant will reopen January 5 for dinner, with a new winter menu.

Speaking of restaurants: Don’t forget “06880”‘s guide. Click here — or click the “Restaurants” tab at the top of our blog (or the bottom of our iPhone or Android app), for a list of local spots, complete with menu and website links.

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Want to ring in the new year with a nice oil painting of Westport?

How about this one by Arnold Knauth. It’s listed on eBay for $595 (or best offer):

Don’t recognize it?

Neither do I.

The listing says “Westport, CT.” It looks more like Westport, VT. (Except there is no such place.)

Mary Gai — who spotted the artwork, and sent the link to “06880” — wonders if it could be the now-flattened hilltop where the Gault development is now.

Seems kind of mountainous for that location.

If readers have any idea where this could be in Westport — or where else it could show — click “Comments” below.

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Tammy Barry checks in with the first “Westport … Naturally” feature of 2024. It shows the last kayak of 2023, for these folks:

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … in honor of today’s Polar Bear Plunge (story above):

(If your New Year’s resolution is to support “06880,” you’re in luck. Just click here. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, religion, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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March For Israel: Westporters Report From DC

Posted on November 15, 2023 | 4 comments

Nothing could deter dozens of Westporters, who gathered before dawn yesterday morning at The Conservative Synagogue.

They waited for 2 buses to take them to Washington, for a nationwide March for Israel.

Then they waited … and waited … but the buses never came.

Undaunted, they decided to drive. They figured out drivers, loaded their belongings, and — in 38 cars — headed south.

They arrived a few hours later. Danielle Dobin reports:

“The crowd of almost 300,000 fell completely silent as the families of hostages kidnapped by Hamas shared their painful experiences. Everyone present recommitted to bringing the hostages home. I hope people will take the time to listen to the powerful remarks of Rachel Goldberg, the mother of someone abducted from the music festival.

“An invading army of terrorists purposefully kidnapped people from their homes, from a concert, babies from their cribs … and some Americans are cheering this or sanitizing it with words like ‘justified resistance’ is hard to fathom. Standing up to oppose this is why we needed to drop everything to be present yesterday.

“This was a profoundly patriotic crowd. American flags were everywhere — woven into people’s hair, printed on shirts and hats, worn as capes, waving on flagpoles. There were also many, many Israeli flags.

“Attendees proudly showed their faces. No one was masked.

“Jews, Christians and Muslims marched. Some folks were ardent supporters of Netanyahu and others were vocal detractors. Republicans and Democrats spoke. Everyone put aside their differences to demand the release of the hostages, declare their solidarity with the state of Israel, and to decry the proliferation of antisemitism on college campuses.

“My brother and I met multiple large groups of non-Jewish Israel supporters from the Midwest and beyond who flew in just for the demonstration. Their expressions in the photo below capture their energy.

“The buses scheduled to bring us gathered at the Conservative Synagogue failed to show up. We don’t know if this was a result of incompetence by the bus company, or if it can be attributed to antisemitism. We mostly piled into cars and drove down in big groups. There was a vibrant contingent of Westporters present, from school-aged children to grandparents.”

Danielle Dobin (2nd from left), and friends.

Danielle Dobin also sent this photo, from the Metro …

(Photo/Danielle Dobin)

… while (below, from left) Rabbi Zach Plesent, Adam Blau and Bryan Bierman of Temple Israel gathered …

… and Arthur Hayes added this ,,,

From left: Arthur and Lisa Hayes with their son James, a Staples High School freshman. (Photo/Arthur Hayes)

,,, and Temple Israel executive director Bryan Bierman sent this:

(Photo/Bryan Bierman)

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Posted in Politics, religion

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FBI Training Supports Temple Israel

Posted on November 1, 2023 | 3 comments

As executive director of Temple Israel, Bryan Bierman is responsible for many things: human resources, building management, the cemetery.

But he’s also in charge of something colleagues at Christian churches never worry about: security.

With threats to synagogues increasing across the nation — particularly after Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel — the Westport resident is in constant contact with Westport and State Police, and other law enforcement agencies.

Bierman is impressed with all of them, and values their close working relationships. But a recent experience with the FBI has opened his eyes to the behind-the-scenes work of keeping Temple Israel — and our town, state and nation — safe.

Now, he’s more impressed than ever.

Bryan Bierman, at FBI headquarters. (Photo courtesy of Frank Rosen)

Earlier this year, congregant Frank Rosen told Bierman about the FBI Citizens Academy. The 8-week program gives business, community and religious leaders an inside look at the federal law enforcement organization.

Throughout the spring, Bierman attended classes at the New Haven field office. He was surprised to learn about programs like the FBI’s statewide task force on gang violence, and the daily work the public never hears about but that keep Connecticut safe.

He made valuable partnerships with divisions like the Bomb Squad. Bierman invited members to Temple Israel. They toured the building, just in case they ever need to be there.

At the Citizens Academy, Bierman learned of an even more elite program. Held at FBI headquarters in Washington, and their training center near Quantico, Virginia, it offers an inside, in-depth look at both the agency, and its agents.

He applied, accepted, and last month joined a group of 26 Citizens Academy graduates from both Connecticut and New Orleans at the facility.

FBI Citizens Academy. Bryan Bierman is in the back, 2nd from left.

“It’s hard to put the experience into words,” Bierman says.

They heard from the number two agent in charge of negotiations with Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, after the Boston Marathon bombing. He described the intense experience, including the intense gun battle.

The next day, the group saw the actual boat Tsarnaev had hidden in.

The boat in which Boston Marathon Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was captured by the FBI. (Photo courtesy of Frank Rosen)

Learning what the FBI thought and did during those difficult days was important, Bierman says.

The group also toured Hogan’s Alley — the “mock town” with banks, bars, stores, hotels, movie theaters and more, that agents and hostage rescue teams use to prepare for a variety of scenarios.

They learned that a trainee once did not notice a fake door, and was “shot.”

Later, during an actual investigation, he found an actual fake door — a direct result of his training.

In addition, the group viewed the real and digital models — used for future training, and in court — that woodworking and engineering experts make following investigations. One — showing the Capitol during the January 6 insurrection — has been used extensively by prosecutors.

Of particular interest to Bierman: the model used after the Tree of Life synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh.

“There’s a lot more to the FBI than kicking down doors,” Bierman notes. “So much goes on that people don’t know about.”

The visit to Quantico and Washington reinforced for Bierman the value of having “strong leadership to keep us safe.”

He will continue to work with the FBI — and other partners — to ensure the security of Temple Israel.

Temple Israel.

As for the Connecticut field office, he says, “It’s not massive. But everyone there loves the state. They look out for everyone. They’re keeping us safe from threats most of us don’t even know exist.”

And, he notes, “The FBI says Westport law enforcement is great to work. As a Westport resident, and for Temple Israel, that’s a win for everyone.”

(The New Haven FBI Citizens Academy is always looking for applicants. To learn more, or for questions, contact Bryan Bierman: bbierman@tiwestport.org.)

(Every day, “06880” covers the people, places, institutions, history and life of Westport. If you appreciate our work, please click here to support this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Categories, religion

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Weston Confronts Antisemitic Signs

Posted on October 29, 2023 | 18 comments

In the wake of Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel, disturbing lawn signs appeared in Weston.

Last week, Rabbi Michael Friedman of Westport’s Temple Israel and Rev. Bernard Wilson of Weston’s Norfield Congregational Church sent this open letter to residents of the town:

On Sunday morning, a new set of political lawn signs appeared around town. They referenced candidates running for selectman with the phrase, “Ham & Baloney: more of the same ol’ leftovers for Weston.”

It happens that the targeted candidates are both Jewish, and that these signs were often placed next to lawn signs depicting the Israeli flag.

The reference to pork products, regarding two Jewish candidates, placed next to the flag of Israel, just days after Israel was attacked adds up to an impact that is antisemitic.

Rabbi Michael Friedman

More broadly, we are concerned for the tenor of political discourse in our town and our nation. As a community we want to be in dialogue with each other. We want discourse that affirms, encourages, emboldens and inspires. While we support the right of all Westonites to voice their support for issues or candidates, negative or oppositional messaging coarsens the discourse of our community.

In this community we work hard to raise awareness of how hateful words make others feel. In this case members of the Jewish community feel targeted. We would say the same regarding language that isolates and stokes fear against people of color and our Muslim community. Derogatory language towards any faith, religion or race has no place here.

We believe that human beings generally have good intentions. But sometimes even the best of intentions may have an unanticipated harmful impact. Our hope in writing this letter is to strengthen the fabric of our community and further build the culture of inclusion that so many of us value here in Weston.
In peace,

First Selectwoman Sam Nestor added these thoughts:    

This weekend, various signs were strategically placed throughout our town, and unfortunately they have sparked fears and concerns amongst our families. Further, the subsequent discussion has shown a divide among our community.

1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor

In my capacity as a town leader, it is crucial that I address the matter of these signs and emphasize their inappropriate nature. Regardless of whether they were deliberately designed to be so, the Jewish families in our community, including myself, perceive them as being antisemitic. It is of utmost importance that we approach this issue with the seriousness it deserves and truly listen to the concerns raised.

To gain a better understanding of the situation at hand, I have taken the time to consult with esteemed faith leaders and advisors. I strongly urge everyone to not dismiss this matter when it arises, but rather, to speak up and take a stand against it.

These signs have had a profound impact on our Jewish community members, leaving them feeling a range of emotions: unsafe, unwelcome, unheard.

Our neighbors are in pain, and as a community, we have the responsibility to support each other. I sincerely hope that you will stand with me in assuring our community that we will not tolerate the infiltration of antisemitism within our town. Together, we can make a difference.

(Hat tip: Sarah Kerstin Gross)

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Posted in Local politics, religion, Weston

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Roundup: Israel, Civility, Il Pastaficio …

Posted on October 10, 2023 | 19 comments

A wrong location was posted yesterday for this week’s candidate debates. Here’s the correct info:

Planning & Zoning Commission candidates take the Town Hall auditorium stage tomorrow (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.

Questions must be submitted in advance. They will not be taken from the floor. Email: lwvwestportct@yahoo.com.

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

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An overflow crowd of 1,000 — including Governor Ned Lamont and Senator Richard Blumenthal, local officials and many clergy — packed Temple Israel last night, for a “We Stand With Israel” solidarity gathering.

Representatives from nearly 2 dozen area synagogues and other organizations hosted the event, which was organized in just 48 hours by the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County.

Senator Richard Blumenthal (bottom center), at last night’s “We Stand With Israel” gathering.

Religious leaders and others, at Temple Israel. (Photos/Allison Wachstein)

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Westporters Arthur and Lisa Hayes are in Paris this week.

On a boat in the Seine yesterday night, they saw from a distance that the Eiffel Tower was not lit in white, as usual. One half seemed to be dark; the other was very dark blue.

As they got closer, they all understood. The tour boat grew very quiet, as they passed by.

(Photo/Arthur Hayes)

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In this week’s timely “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker discusses a recent study on the growing lack of civility in small towns, and her own public comments on the issue.

The podcasts are sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston. Click below to listen:

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Il Pastaficio is Westport’s hottest new restaurant.

But it’s already drawing notice.

Owner/chef Federico Perandin will appear on Guy Fieri’s legendary “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” Food Network show. The episode airs this Friday (October 13, 9 p.m.).

The Black Duck was featured on the same show in 2009. People still talk about it.

Looks like that will be true too for our new Post Road authentic Italian place. Here’s to Il Pastaficio, and 2037!

Federico Perandin, at Il Pastaficio. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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WestportMoms’ Fall Festival returns for a 3rd autumn — with a great new venue.

The Compo Beach fields (across from the playground) are the site for this year’s event. It’s this Saturday (October 14), from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The day includes

  • Crafty kids’ art projects
  • Hair tinsel
  • Face painting
  • DJ and photo booth
  • Jumbo balloon
  • Bounce house
  • Obstacle course
  • Pumpkin decorating
  • Pottery
  • Food trucks, candy truck, cotton candy
  • Mad science show
  • Bubble snow
  • Basketball games
  • A special character dressed up as Super Mario (based on a town  vote)
  • And more!

New this year: a Halloween costume swap. Bring an old costume; take a new or used one at no cost.

Leftovers will be donated to children in need.

The cost is $20 per family.

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Today is World Mental Health Day.

Westport’s own David Briggs will conduct an Instagram interview tonight (Tuesday, October 10, 7:30 p.m., @westportlibrary) with Rhone co-founder and CEO Nate Checketts. They’ll talk about how the men’s wellness brand — which opened on Main Street this summer — is committed to men’s mental health issues.

From left: ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky and Nate Checketts at Rhone’s Westport store.

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Longtime Westporter Marty Yellen offered a presentation on aging — and a cancer treatment update — at yesterday’s Y’s Women meeting.

Yellen was an engineer on the Hubble Space Telescope. He then earned a doctorate in medical biology engineering. He works now with Yale scientists, biologists and engineers on diseases that come with aging, researching techniques and treatments to alleviate them.

Yellen warned the large audience to stay away from beef (particularly grilling), processed meats that can stand at room temperature like salami, and animal fats. 

He suggested instead lamb, chicken, fish, plenty of fiber and vegetables, nuts, yogurt, beans — and most importantly, virgin olive oil rather than butter. 

Daily exercise daily — for example, 30 minutes of walking — is especially important. 

“You are your own doctor,” Yellen said. “Take care of your body, eat right, exercise daily — and don’t smoke!”

Marty Yellin at yesterday’s Y’s Women meeting.

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Speaking of health: The 29th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Fairfield County event is always a celebration of courage and hope

Over 5,000 participants will gather this Sunday (October 15, 9 a.m. to noon), at Sherwood Island State Park.

Over 3 decades, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer’s 3- to 5-mile walks have  provided a supportive community for survivors, caregivers and families. The event funds breast cancer research, programs and services.

For more details, click here.

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From Azerbaijan to Westport: Amina Figarova has moved from her upbringing behind the Iron Curtain to become a celebrated jazz pianist and composer.

On Thursday (October 12, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399) she makes her “Jazz at the Post” debut. Rudy Royston, Boots Maleson, Bart Platteau and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall join her for two shows: 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Dinner starts at 7.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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MoCA Westport is stepping into dance.

Their first-ever dance performance this Saturday (October 14, 7 p.m.) features the East Coast Contemporary Ballet Company, in collaboration with Alturas Duo and Yale University’s  Calllisto Quartet.

“Strings and Asymmetry” offers a fusion of styles, instruments and artistic
expressions.

Tickets include admission to the current exhibit. For details and tickets, click here or call (203) 222-7070.

Dance and more at MoCA.

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Fred Cantor and his wife Debbie Silberstein spotted these on Riverside Avenue, near the medical buildings.

(Photo/Fred Cantor)

They’re perfect for “Westport … Naturally.” But Fred and Debbie don’t know what kind of berries they are.

“06880” readers: Chime in! Click “Comments” below.

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And finally … on this day in 1845, the Naval School opened with 50 students in Annapolis, Maryland.

Today it’s known as the United States Naval Academy. Its enrollment is about 4,450.

(Another Roundup filled with political, entertainment, restaurant and health news — and another reminder that “06880” relies entirely on reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Local business, 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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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Local politics, Politics, religion

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Roundup: Israel Talk, Beach Sign Gone, Rugby Hosts …

Posted on April 12, 2023 | 3 comments

With tensions high in Israel, Westport is hosting an important Zoom conversation.

“Israel’s Gravest Crisis Ever: How We Got Here and Can We Get Out?” is set for this Sunday (April 16, 5 p.m.).

Dr. Daniel Gordis — a National Jewish Book Award-winning author, podcaster, and a Jerusalem Post pick as one of the world’s 50 most influential Jews — is the guest.

He recently co-wrote an “Open Letter to Israel’s Friends in North America.”

Rabbis Jeremy Wiederhorn and Michael Friedman will facilitate the discussion.

Their Conservative Synagogue and Temple Israel congregations, and the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County, are sponsoring the event.

Click here to register.

Daniel Gordis

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The Westport Garden Club did its usual bang-up job recently, cleaning the “beach bud” entrance to Compo.

(Photo/Nathalie Fonteyne)

As they worked, they noticed something: the much-reviled and very large electronic sign detailing the status of parking spaces was missing.

The sign, last year. (Photo/Matt Murray)

There is an electronic sign, noting that dogs are not allowed on the beach.

But it’s portable.

It’s far less intrusive.

And it does not sit plumb in the middle of a gorgeous, well-maintained garden.

(Photo and hat tip/Nathalie Fonteyne)

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The Staples rugby team makes history this Saturday,

The Wreckers host St. Andrew’s, of Grahamstown, South Africa. They’re the first high school from that country to tour the US — and they’ve chosen Staples as an opponent.

St. Andrew’s has played rugby for nearly 150 years — about as long as Staples has been a school.

St. Andrew’s rugby team.

The sport has a much younger history here. But the Wreckers are one of the top squads in the country, so the match should be a great one. Match time on Saturday is noon, at Paul Lane Field (football stadium).

It’s the first time Staples rugby has hosted an international squad. In true rugby spirit, St. Andrew’s players are hosted by local families. 

Staples High School rugby team.

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Take heart:

Part 2 of the Westport Library’s important cardiac education series is this Monday (April 17, 7 p.m.). The topic is atrial fibrillation.

What is this rhythmic disturbance? Why is it so important?

Dr. Robert Altbaum explains. Dr. Murali Chiravuri discusses the causes, complications, treatments and therapies. Dr. Mitchell Driesman adds insights too.

Afterwards, attendees can be tested quickly for heartbeat irregularities. Sm

Dr. Robert Altbaum

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Johnny Cash is coming to Westport.

Well, not exactly. The Man in Black has been dead nearly 20 years.

But Johnny Folsom 4 — a great tribute band — headlines the next “Supper & Soul” concert. It’s Saturday, May 13, at the Westport Library.

The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event is tons of fun.  For $85 a ticket, you get a 3-course dinner at one of 11 downtown restaurants, plus the show.

After the concert, show your ticket at any of the restaurants, and get happy hour pricing on drinks.

Participating restaurants include 190 Main, Arezzo, Basso, Capuli, Casa Me, De Tapas, Don Memo, Nômade, Spotted Horse, Goji and Walrus Alley.

Click here for tickets, and more information. (Concert-only tickets are available too — they’re $35.

Johnny Cash was famous for playing in prisons. This may be his — well, his tribute band’s — first library gig.

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The state Department of Transportation is providing Connecticut residents with a free subscription to Transit Royale, an upgrade to the mobile app Transit.

Transit helps public transportation users plan and track their bus and train trips, using schedule information and real-time vehicle location. It is available on iOS and Android.

Connecticut riders can access routes outside of their immediate area without encountering a paywall, and schedule trips in advance

Riders wishing to use the Westport Transit District’s Wheels2U on-demand, door-to-train station service should continue to use the Wheels2UWestport app for that purpose.

However, the Coastal Link service through Westport on the Post Road, all Norwalk Transit District and Greater Bridgeport Transit District fixed route services, CT Transit services in Stamford, and Metro-North New Haven Line services are available in the Transit app.

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Any way you spell it, the Westport Police Department keeps us “saf.”

Two Westport youngsters — Owen and Georgia — thanked our officers yesterday, with some healthy snacks, and handwritten notes.

Both were greatly appreciated.

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State Senator Ceci Maher, and State Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson, invite their Westport constituents for “coffee and conversation” next Tuesday morning (April 18, 7:30 to 9 a.m.).

They’ve picked a great spot: Mrs. London’s Bakery.

Senator Ceci Maher, Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson.

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Alison Patton took an Easter walk. She reports: “The buffleheads appear to have moved north; the swans have a nest, and the great egrets have arrived. This morning we saw a bald eagle and 2 osprey fishing over the Saugatuck River.”

She sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo: a very close-up shot of one of the great egrets.

(Photo/Alison Patton)

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And finally … ABBA guitarist Lasse Wellander died Friday, at 70. He played on many of their studio albums beginning in 1974, and toured frequently with them.

He was recently diagnosed with cancer. Click here for more details.

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Posted in Beach, Library, Police, Politics, religion, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS, Transportation

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Westport’s Private Benjamin

Posted on January 26, 2023 | 28 comments

Westport has long been proud of World War II veterans like Leonard Everett Fisher and Joe Schachter, and the late Ted Diamond and Howard Munce.

We honor them on Memorial Day. We listen to and read recollections of their service. We thank them often (though probably not enough).

We’ve done none of that for Ben Pepper.

He was a paratrooper. He earned a Purple Heart at the Battle of the Bulge. He’s lived in Westport since 1958.

Yet we’ve never seen him on Memorial Day. Most of us have never heard his name.

That’s his decision. He has chosen never to march or ride in the May parade. He still has his medals, his dog tag, his photos — and his Army jacket — but he has always been low-key about them.

Ben Pepper, yesterday. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Perhaps this Memorial Day — less than 2 months before his 100th birthday — that will change.

Westport would be honored to honor him. He lives in his longtime home — alone, after his wife Frances died — and has nearly a century of stories to tell.

Yesterday — sitting in his son David and daughter-in-law Gail’s Wilton Road house — he told some of them.

Pepper’s parents came from Austria-Hungary. His father had a window cleaning route.

Pepper was born on July 5, 1923 in the Bronx. He grew up near the Grand Concourse.

Ben Pepper, on his bar mitzvah day.

After graduating from DeWitt Clinton High School, he headed to aeronautical school at La Guardia Airport.

But World War II was underway. He was soon drafted, and ordered to report to Grand Central Terminal on New Year’s Day, 1943.

(His younger brother Armand enlisted — without his parents’ permission. His mother brought him home. When he was old enough he joined the Army Air Forces, and served in the South Pacific. He is 97, and lives in Naples, Florida.)

Pepper was sent first to Fort Dix, then to a new tank training center at Camp Hood in Texas. He felt unsuited to tank operations, and asked for a transfer.

He got one: to paratrooper school at Fort Benning, Georgia.

“I was 19. I didn’t know what I was getting into,” Pepper says.

Ben Pepper: in the Army.

After stops in North Carolina and Maryland, his 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment was sent to Northern Ireland, then Sherwood Forest in England.

Pepper would have been part of D-Day. But he had broken his back on an earlier jump, and was in a near-full body cast.

Many of his fellow paratroopers never made it home that June day.

He recuperated in time for another important, gruesome battle: The Bulge. But on Christmas Day 1944, his flight to France crashed on takeoff. Everyone survived.

Instead he was driven to the Ardennes forest, between Belgium and Luxembourg.

“There was a lot of shooting,” he remembers.

A German shell hit the edge of his foxhole, but did not explode. Ten minutes later, a fellow soldier stood up in the same foxhole. A bullet killed him instantly.

Pepper got frostbite in the brutal cold — his rifle was frozen too — and earned a Purple Heart for it.

Ben Pepper’s Purple Heart, dog tag and other mementoes. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Soon, he was assigned to guard a former German schnapps factory. “We were 20-year-old kids, with all the booze you’d want,” he laughs.

After Pepper’s discharge in October 1945, he answered an ad to be a photographer. “Why not?” he figured.

That started a long career. In 1953 he opened his own studio — Allyn — on Atlantic Street in Stamford. By then he’d met and married Frances; their son David was 5.

Ben Pepper (center left) and fellow members of his photography school class.

Pepper also opened liquor stores, in Stamford and Norwalk. Frances started her own Kitty Closet shops on Westport Avenue in Norwalk.

In 1958 they bought property on what was then Blue Ribbon Farm, on North Avenue just past Cross Highway. They built a home on what is now Blue Ribbon Lane. He’s lived there ever since.

Ben Pepper, back in the day.

In 1960 the Peppers helped build Temple Israel on Coleytown Road. They spent the rest of their married life raising David (a Staples Class of 1966 graduate), traveling (including China before it opened to the West, the USSR, Africa and Asia), and working.

David and Gail have 2 children, both Staples graduates. They’ve given Pepper 3 great-grandchildren.

All would be proud to see “Private Benjamin” Pepper be honored at Westport’s Memorial Day parade.

He’s not so sure.

“My jacket wouldn’t fit,” he protests.

It would. Pepper is in great shape.

And Westporters of all ages would be inspired to salute him in it.

(Hat tip: Arlene Yolles)

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Posted in History, Looking back, religion

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MLK

Posted on January 16, 2023 | 12 comments

This story has become a Martin Luther King Day tradition on “06880.” After the events of the past couple of years, today — more than ever — we should think about the history of our nation before Dr. King was born.

And where we are, more than half a century after his death.

Today is Martin Luther King Day. Westporters will celebrate with a day off from school or work. Some will sleep in; others will shop, or go for a walk. Few will give any thought to Martin Luther King.

Twice, though, his life intersected this town in important ways.

The first was Friday night, May 22, 1964. According to Woody Klein’s book Westport, Connecticut, King had been invited to speak at Temple Israel by synagogue member Jerry Kaiser.

King arrived in the afternoon. Kaiser and his wife Roslyn sat on their porch that afternoon, and talked with King and 2 of his aides. She was impressed with his “sincerity, warmth, intelligence and genuine concern for those about him — our children, for instance. He seemed very young to bear such a burden of leadership.”

Martin Luther King, with Sarah and Tema Kaiser at their home on Brooklawn Drive, before his Temple Israel appearance. Their brother Michael had a cold, and was not allowed near Dr. King.

King’s sermon — to a packed audience — was titled “Remaining Awake Through a Great Revolution.” He analogized his America to the time of Rip Van Winkle — who also “slept through a revolution. The greatest liability of history is that people fail to see a revolution taking place in our world today.  We must support the social movement of the Negro.”

Westport artist Roe Halper presented King with 3 woodcarvings, representing the civil rights struggle. He hung them proudly in the front hallway of his Atlanta home.

Artist Roe Halper (left) presents Coretta Scott King with civil rights-themed wood carvings.

Within a month Temple Israel’s rabbi, Byron Rubenstein, traveled south to take place in a nonviolent march. He was arrested — along with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King.

In jail, the rabbi said, “I came to know the greatness of Dr. King. I never heard a word of hate or bitterness from that man, only worship of faith, joy and determination.”

King touched Westport again less than 4 years later. On April 5, 1968 — the day after the civil rights leader’s assassination in Memphis — 600 Staples students gathered for a lunchtime vigil in the courtyard. Nearby, the flag flew at half-staff.

A small portion of the large crowd listens intently to Fermino Spencer, in the Staples courtyard.

A small portion of the large crowd listens intently to Fermino Spencer, in the Staples courtyard.

Vice principal Fermino Spencer addressed the crowd. Movingly, he spoke about  his own experience as an African American. Hearing the words “my people” made a deep impression on the almost all-white audience. For many, it was the 1st time they had heard a black perspective on white America.

No one knew what lay ahead for their country. But student Jim Sadler spoke for many when he said: “I’m really frightened. Something is going to happen.”

Dr. Martin Luther King

Something did — and it was good. A few hundred students soon met in the cafeteria. Urged by a minister and several anti-poverty workers to help bridge the chasm between Westport and nearby cities, Staples teachers and students vowed to create a camp.

Within 2 months, it was a reality. That summer 120 elementary and junior high youngsters from Westport, Weston, Norwalk and Bridgeport participated in the Intercommunity Camp. Led by over 100 Staples students and many teachers, they enjoyed swimming, gymnastics, dance, sports, field trips, overnight camping, creative writing, filmmaking, photography, art and reading.

It wasn’t easy — some in Westport opposed bringing underprivileged children to their town — but for over a decade the Intercommunity Camp flourished.

Eventually, enthusiasm for and interest in the camp waned. Fewer Staples students and staff members wanted to devote their summer to such a project.  The number of Westporters willing to donate their pools dwindled. Today the Intercommunity Camp is a long-forgotten memory.

Sort of like the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. Even on his birthday.

MLK speech

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Martin Luther King Day bonus feature: In the late 1950s, Westporter Tracy Sugarman took his son Dickie, and Dickie’s friend Miggs Burroughs, to a picnic in Stamford.

Rev. Martin Luther King was there, at the invitation of the host: Jackie Robinson.

Sugarman — a noted illustrator – was also a civil rights activist.

Miggs — a junior high student — took the Minox “spy” camera he’d bought earlier that summer.

He still has those photos. Here are the 2 pioneering Black Americans: Martin Luther King and Jackie Robinson.

(Photos/Miggs Burroughs)

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Posted in History, Politics, religion, Sports

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Roundup: Restaurant Week, Organic Krush, Mushrooms …

Posted on September 23, 2022 | 1 comment

Restaurant Week returns! In fact, it’s “Restaurant 2 Weeks.”

The popular Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event begins  tomorrow (Sunday, September 25). It runs through October 9. Part of an “Eat Local” campaign, it follows the successful Slice of Saugatuck Festival.

This year, 21 restaurants all over town offer prix fixe meals, in a wide range of cuisines and prices. Each eatery sets their own prices and hours.

Here are the participating restaurants. “L” means lunch; “D” is for dinner; “B” for brunch. Click a link where applicable for menus (some are pending — click here for the most up-to-date information).

Allium Eatery (L)
Amis (L,D)
Boathouse (L,D)
Capuli  (L,D)
De Tapas (L,D)
Don Memo (L)
Gray Goose (L)
Harvest (D,B)
Kawa Ni (L)
La Plage (L,D)
Pane E Bene (D)
Rive Bistro (L,D)
Rizzutos (D)
Romanacci (L,D)
Spotted Horse Tavern (L)
TAJ (L,D)
Tarantino (D)
Terrain (D)
The Whelk (L)
Tutti’s Restaurant (L,D)
Via Sforza (L,D)

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The hour-long CNN “Champions for Change” special — hosted by Dr. Sanjay Gupta, and featuring Westport’s own Police Chief Foti Koskinas — airs tomorrow (Saturday, September 24, 8 p.m.).

“06880” previously gave an incorrect date of Sunday. Tune in tomorrow! (Hat tip: Alisyn Camerota)

    • Screenshot from CNN: Alisyn Camerota and Chief Foti Koskinas.

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A GoFundMe page has been set up, to help with the education of the children of Mark Blake, the popular and long-serving Westport and Weston Emergency Medical Service supervisor and volunteer, who died Tuesday of complications from COVID. Click here to donate.

    • Mark Blake

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With low-key publicity — and high security — former Israeli prime minister Ehud Barak spoke at Temple Israel Tuesday night.

Drawing on his experience as a military leader and cabinet minister, he discussed ongoing tensions in the region, threats from Iran and more.

    • Ehud Barak, at Temple Israel. (Photo/JC Martin)

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As the school year begins, Organic Krush reminds teachers that they get a 10% discount — year round. Founder Michelle Walrath — a former teacher — is proud to honor educators “invaluable service.”

She also adds a plug for their new spiced pumpkin smoothie and pumpkin donuts. “Off the charts!” she says.

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“The Wonderful World of Mushrooms” comes to Wakeman Town Farm on October 24 (7 p.m.).

The free lecture is a deep dive, with experts from Essential Earth Farm.

WTF says: “During a billion years of evolution, fungi have become masters of survival. They are primary decomposers that keep our forests alive. They play an integral role in decomposition.”

Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between fungi, soil, and environmental and human health. Click here to register.

    • (Photo/Peter Gold)

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Robin Frank writes: “In anticipation of Halloween, let’s remember the dead by investigating art’s historic role in celebrating and memorializing loss.

“Join me for a free lecture called “Hauntings: Death and Desire in American Art” (October 6, 7 p.m., at Museum for History & Culture). Artists of all generations have made the absent present through haunting imagery, ranging from the seductive to the spectral, from portraits to seemingly haunted domestic spaces immortalizing intimate and moving stories.”

Click here for more information, and registration.

    • A haunting image.

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Sorelle Gallery’s next exhibition — “Cosmic Botany” — features artist Roger Mudre.

His work is inspired by patterns of nature, and the circle as the perfect form. Titling each painting after plants, he draws upon “microscopic worlds, cellular growth, auras, the cosmos, and places unseen, only imagined.”

The exhibit runs October 1 through 23. An opening reception and artist meet-and-greet is set for October 1 (4:30 to 6:30 p.m.). Click here for more information.

    • Art by Roger Mudre

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‘Tis the season for nests. Today’s “Westport … Naturally” scary-looking one was spotted on Bermuda Road, by Ken Yormark:

    • (Photo/Ken Yormark)

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And finally … in honor of Wakeman Town Farm’s upcoming lecture on mushrooms (story above):

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Police, Politics, religion, Restaurants

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