Tag Archives: Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport

Roundup: Car Thieves, Badass Bagels, Kids’ Cell Phones …

Posted on May 2, 2024 | 6 comments

Once again, there’s been an increase is auto theft and break-in attempts.

At 10:38 p.m. Tuesday night, Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella saw a black Toyota with 5 occupants — wearing masks — make their way down a neighbor’s driveway in the Hillspoint area.

They got into her unlocked vehicle, and opened her garage door. Her keys were not in the car; otherwise they might have used them to steal it, or enter the house.

The owner was home alone. Andrew called the Westport Police. Officer Melissa Bike was on scene within 2 minutes.

Andrew says, “Her professionalism, detailed questions, care, and unique comfort ability brought ease to a terrifying incident.”

Officer Kevin Smith patrolled the entire area, and looked to see if any other properties were entered.

Andrew was impressed too by Detective John Lauria’s “assertive persistence to dust, fingerprint, photograph, and methodically capture any evidence with care.”

The incident serves as another reminder to always remove keys and fobs from vehicles — and, if possible, park them in a locked garage.

Police add: “Keep exterior lights on, and utilize surveillance and/or alarm systems. Call the police immediately to report any suspicious activity. The department strongly advises against confronting any suspects if you observe them on your property. There have been a number of incidents throughout the state where these individuals have resorted to violence when confronted.”

Officer Melissa Bike and Detective John Lauria dust for fingerprints. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Badass Bagels is a badass — and very popular — purveyor.

And “How I Built This” with Guy Raz is a badass — and very popular podcast.

Today, the latest episode dropped. The first segment features Westporter Jennifer Balin, and her badass baking and branding. (She works just over the border, on Lois Street in Norwalk.)

As always, Guy does a great job getting to the heart of what people do, and how they do it.

And the experience gave Jennifer a chance to connect with Pete Maldonado, the Chomps grass-fed beef stick founder. (His brand is in Trader Joe’s.)

“The world of entrepreneurs is just amazing,” Jennifer says.

“I have made great relationships with people right here in town as well. Our customer base is flooded with entrepreneurs who want to help me grow. We are expanding, and we love slinging bagels!”

Click here to listen to how Jennifer built this.

Those are some Badass bagels.

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Yesterday’s “06880” lead story described a movement at Greens Farms Elementary School, urging parents not to allow smartphone until their children are out of middle school.

Coincidentally, the Washington Post ran a long story yesterday, about a middle school in Manchester, Connecticut that prohibits cell phone use during the school day. All phones are locked in individual pouches at arrival, then unlocked as students leave.

Interestingly, many youngsters find that not having access to phones during the school day is not all bad.

How did parents react? Click here to read. (Hat tips: Jack Backiel, Chris Grimm)

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Speaking of kids: A large crowd enjoyed Bedford Middle School’s annual art show Tuesday night.

The event also included classical and choral music, and great food. (Hat tip: Dayle Brownstein)

Bedford Middle School art teachers (from left): Dineen Farley, Cecily Anderson, Paula Morgan.

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Speaking still of kids: This Saturday (May 4, 9 a.m. to noon, Kings Highway Elementary School), KHS 5th graders host a car wash.

The cost is $10 per car. Of course, additional donations are welcome.

They’re raising money for their class gift to the school. They’ll donate funds for the Outdoor Learning Center, which will be completed soon.

Additional funding comes from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and parent donations.

Every little bit helps — and the soon-to-move-up Kings Highway students are doing their share.

(Interestingly, 8 members of KHS’ 5th grade class had at least 1 parent who graduated from Staples. And one has a grandmother who did!)

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Westporters can breathe easy again.

AEDs are back at town athletic fields, and other outdoor places.

The devices — Automated External Defibrillators, which are easy to use but crucial life-saving devices during cardiac emergencies — are taken in during cold weather.

But now they’re fully charged, and ready to be used.

We hope they never have to be. But just in case: Know where they are.

And be ready to use them

AED at Winslow Park, near the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot. (Hat tip and photo/Mark Mathias)

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If you missed Tuesday’s great Startup Westport Innovator of the Year event — featuring ESPN CEO Jimmy Pitaro chatting with ESPN host (and fellow Westporter) Mike Greenberg: You’re in luck.

The Westport Library recorded the event. Click below to hear some great stories about career paths, innovation, the media and sports landscapes — and Westport.

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Speaking of sports: Jenny Bradshaw is a world champion cheerleader!

The 2023 Staples High graduate — a 4-year Wrecker cheer member and senior captain, now a student at the University of Miami — cheers for the Lady Jags team.

Last week, her Top Gun All Stars won the Senior Medium L6 division title over 8 other teams at the Cheerleading World Championships in Orlando,

This is not Jenny’s first big Worlds award. As a member of the Xtreme Cheer All Stars gym in Danbury, her team Inferno captured a bronze medal in 2022.

Click below for the Lady Jags’ winning routine:

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Joseph Davis and Danielle Leblanc are traveling from their Maine home, on the Canadian border, to teach the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport about how the Anishinabe People were given a framework to guide their lives spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally. They will also share a blessing with the Sacred Pipe.

The event is this Saturday (May 4, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) at the UU Meeting House.

Grandmother Nancy Andry — a UU Westport member — says, “These are incredible teachings by two revered elders. This is a rare opportunity.”

The public is welcome.

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Longtime Westport firefighter Edmund Duffy Jr. died April 25, in Minneapolis. He was at 82.

He began his service as a volunteer firefighter in 1959, at 18. In 1964 he transitioned to a full-time firefighter, dedicating another 32 years to the profession. Even after retirement, he remained committed to helping others.

Ed proudly served in the Army Reserve from 1964 to 1969.

His family says, “Ed valued the simple joys in life, cherished his blue-collar origins, and treated everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their background.”

When not working at the firehouse, Ed was a landscaper. He enjoyed baseball, softball, bowling, fishing, and collecting model trains.

Ed is survived by his daughter Elizabeth (Matthew), brothers Charlie (Rose) and Denis (Mary), sisters Anne-Carol and Donna, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was predeceased by his wife Susan and daughter Deborah.

A visitation will be held on May 9 (4 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home). A burial ceremony will follow on May 10 (11 a.m., Assumption Cemetery).

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Westport Animal Shelter Advocates.

Edmund Duffy

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Most people call it “the Longshore exit road.” The official name is Herbert Baldwin Road (in honor of the first selectman who, in 1960, pushed for the purchase of a failing country club — destined to be an 180-home development — for $1.9 million).

Whatever you know it by: It’s a very pretty spot.

Especially in spring, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows:

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … on this date in 1536, England’s Queen Anne Boleyn was arrested and imprisoned on charges of adultery, incest, treason and witchcraft.

(Police, education, sports, business news — “06880” covers it all. It’s all in today’s Roundup — as it is every day, 24/7/366. Please click here to help support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Long Lots Update, Jimmy Pitaro, Piercings & Puppies …

Posted on May 1, 2024 | 4 comments

The Long Lots School Building Committee posted this update yesterday:

“On April 16, after a series of interviews over several weeks to assess qualifications (in particular, qualifications for the sustainability aspects of the project) and reviewing cost proposals, the Building Committee selected Newfield Construction to provide construction management services for the new Long Lots Elementary School, and Svigals & Partners to lead the architectural and engineering team, who will design the new school.

“These 2 firms, along with their consultants, will be recommended to the Board of Selectwomen for their approval.

“The next phase of this exciting project will occur over the next several months. It will be a 3-step process: schematic design, design development and, finally, Construction documents. This will lead to a set of documents that will be used to bid and then build the new school.

“The process will start with additional site testing (e.g., updating the survey, borings for geothermal testing, geotechnical and ground water information, etc.) and refining the site criteria with the design team, construction manager, town departments and the committee.

“Early on in the schematic design phase, a tentative schedule will be developed, allowing each of the town approval bodies and departments to know when information or decisions will be required. The schedule and cost estimates will be updated as we progress through this process.

“Each of these increasingly detailed steps in the design process will be shared with the public during the Building Committee’s meetings. Beyond our working public meetings, we expect to hold public informational meetings where the Building Committee and the architect will present progress drawings.

“We look forward to getting the consultants under contract, moving forward with the design process and keeping everyone updated on our progress.”

Plans for a new Long Lots Elementary School are moving forward. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

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Sports fans and entrepreneurs — and sports fans who are entrepreneurs — filled the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum last night, as Startup Westport honored Jimmy Pitaro with its first-ever Innovator of the Year Award.

Startup Westport is our town’s public-private tech entrepreneur partnership. Pitaro is ESPN’s creative, visionary CEO — and a Westporter.

He was interviewed onstage by ESPN host Mike Greenberg — a former Westporter.

The 2 bantered easily, and told stories of their careers. But Pitaro also delivered insights into the sports and media business with depth, breadth and humor.

Both also gave great shout-outs to Westport, as communities to raise families  and inspire them with its beauty, its active residents and its vibe.

The perfect ending came from a Bedford Middle School 6th grade student, who represents the future of sports broadcasting. It was an unexpected — but very innovative — finale, for the first of what will become an annual Startup Westport signature event.

Mike Greenberg (left) and Jimmy Pitaro. (Photo/Charlie Scott)

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Among the many important fundraisers this spring, there is no better venue than Harbor Watch’s “Cocktails & Clams” event (June 1, 5 to 7 p.m.).

It’s at Copps Island Oysters in Norwalk. Attendees get exclusive use of the fishing dock, with great views of Long Island Sound.

They’ll enjoy an unlimited raw bar (fresh off the boat), hors d’oeuvres from Seaside Sliders, drinks from an open bar and music from a jazz band.

Harbor Watch — which researches, monitors and improve water quality and ecosystem health in Connecticut — is affiliated with Earthplace.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Fetch Rescue and Rebel & Rose Tattoo join in a “Puppies & Piercing” event this Saturday (May 4, noon to 4 p.m., 155 Post Road East, 2nd floor).

There’s a special $70 price for ear piercing (plus jewelry and after-care) — along with rescue puppies, to give cuddles and find homes.

 

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Real Estate Outlook — an annual Fairfield County event co-sponsored by FLB Law, the Greater Norwalk Chamber and the Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce — takes place May 22, 2024, at M& T Bank in The SoNo Collection.

This year’s theme is “Housing Matters: Challenges, Solutions and Impacts on Commercial Real Estate.” Networking begins at 8:30 a.m. A panel discussion follows at 9.

Eric Bernheim, head of FLB’s real estate and land use practice, will moderate. Among the panelists: David Waldman of David Adam Realty, developer of Westport’s Bedford Square.

Click here to register, and for more information.

Bedford Square developer David Waldman will discuss housing as it relates to commercial real estate on May 22. (Drone photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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The Greens Farms Academy Dragonoids Middle School robotics team has been in existence for only 3 months.

Yet they’ve already qualified for the Vex Robotics World Championships.

The team’s 7 students flew to Dallas recently, to compete in the 3-day competition. The 494 middle schools, from over 30 countries, qualified out of 20,000 teams.

After a very strong first-time showing, GFA won the sportsmanship award in their 80-team division.

Congratulations to the Dragonoids — Ben Kiev, Cooper Mleczko, Dylan Karpf, Liam Haverstick, Lucas Robinson, Mackenzie Bloom and Spencer Shiff — and coaches Nicholas Iacobelli and Berni Lally!

The Greens Farms Academy Dragonoids.

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Staples High School’s annual Pops Concert at the Levitt Pavilion is June 7.

Tickets are not yet available. But the Music Department is reaching out to local business owners for support, by purchasing ads in the program book.

Ad sales help cover concert expenses, and support the 400-plus students involved in Staples’ award-winning music program.

For details, email staples.music.parents.assn+ads@gmail.com.

Part of the large crowd at the Staples Pops Concert.

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“Seeking Home” — an original cantata for 2 guitars, drums, Native American flute and full choir, with music and score by Rev. Dr. Ed Thompson — will be presented on Sunday (May 5, 10 a.m., the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).

Thompson is the UU’s minister of music. His cantata honors the over 5,000 missing and murdered indigenous women, children and their families in North America, on National Awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Day.

The public is welcome.

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Speaking of church music: the United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston hosts a jazz vespers service this Sunday (May 5, 4 p.m.).

Featured musicians include Anthony Pellegrini (saxophone), John Hoddinott (guitar), Eneji Alungbe (bass) and Larry Davis (drums).

Non-perishable food donations will be gratefully accepted.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Today is the deadline for high school seniors to confirm college acceptances.

But not every graduate will — or should — go to a 4-year school.

A special event — “Finding Your Path: Exploring Post High School Options” — is set for May 14 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

Vince Benevento — dounder and sirector of Causeway Collaborative — will discuss how high school students can plan for the future.

Representatives from the military, community college, vocational schools and apprenticeships will be on hand too

The US military is one option for high school graduates.

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Longtime Weston resident and volunteer Richard Amill died peacefully on April 19 in Norwalk, surrounded by his family. He was 91.

The New York City native graduated from Brown University in 1954. It was there that he met his wife Nancy Jayne. They married in 1955.

Rick spent his career in educational textbook publishing, with leadership positions at Time Inc., Silver-Burdett, Cowles Communications, Macmillan Publishers, Random House and McGraw-Hill. He launched Learning Supplements, a pioneer in K-12 digital learning.

Rick was an avid reader, from current events and history (especially anything about World War II) to novels by John Grisham.

He was a 25-plus year member, and past president, of the Kiwanis Club of Weston, where he established multiple lifelong friendships.

Rick passionately believed in children and the mission of helping others. He taught reading skills to students in Bridgeport, and mentored elementary, middle and high school students in Norwalk into his late 80s.

He volunteered at Norwalk Hospital’s Outpatient Surgical Center, emergency room and Whittingham Cancer Center into his 90s.

He also volunteered at the Connecticut Food Bank, Read Aloud Program, Norwalk Reads, Homes With Hope, Gillespie Center and Open Doors Shelter.

Rick was a lifelong New York Yankee fan. He attended hundreds of Yankee games, including spring training with his family. He passed his love of the sport and his enduring optimism to all who  knew him. He was a devoted father, grandfather and friend.

Rick was predeceased by his wife of 46 years, who died in 2001. He is survived by his sons Andrew (Susan) and Alexander (Jesstyne), daughter Sally, and grandchildren Ryan, Garrett, Sean, Kennison and Callie.

His family thanks the many caregivers who provided support, including the Whittingham Cancer Center, Norwalk Hospital, Waveny Care Center, Maplewood at Strawberry Hill and Constellation Health Services.

Services will be private. The family requests that donations in Rick’s memory be directed to Open Doors Shelter of Norwalk (www.opendoorsct.org).

Rick Amill

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We’ve featured plenty of flowers in our “Westport … Naturally” series.

But none have been shown as beautifully close-up as today’s image, on Manitou Road.

Thanks to photographer JD Dworkow, for a spectacular spring shot.

(Photo/JD Dworkow)

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And finally … Happy May!

(How to celebrate May Day? What about a contribution to “06880”! Please click here. We will thank you every day of the year.)

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Roundup: Parking Limits, Women’s Rights, Minute Man Race …

Posted on April 19, 2024 | 4 comments

Enforcement of downtown parking limits — suspended 4 years ago, during COVID — begins again May 1.

The good news: They’re now 3 hours, up from the previous 1 and 2 hours. (One exception: Post Road East parking remains 1 or 2 hours.)

Enforcement will take place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., 7 days a week.

Some parking areas are designated for all-day parking.

Click here for a map of all downtown parking lots, including aerial views, and the number of timed, all-day and electric vehicles spots. The map is also shown here:

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More police news: The WPD is investigating a car vs. canine accident last Saturday (April 13), at 11:30 a.m. on Compo Road North adjacent to Winslow Park. A driver struck a dog, then left the scene.

Anyone who witnessed the accident should email jkimball@westportct.gov.

Dogs occasionally run away from Winslow Park. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Yesterday’s “06880” story on “Suffs” — the musical about early 20th century suffragists that opened last night on Broadway — highlighted producer Jill Furman, a Westporter.

There’s another local connection: 2008 Staples High School graduate Leo Stagg.

A former Staples Player member (and winner of the Paul Steen Award for Fine Character, Dedication, Honesty, and Excellence in Performance), he is the head carpenter for “Suffs.”

His mother Heli — who runs the Westport Library café — was at last night’s show.

The “Suffs” set.

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Speaking of women’s rights:

State Representative Anne Hughes will discuss reproductive justice issues, in Connecticut and the nation, after this Sunday’s Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport service.

Hughes — whose district includes Weston, Easton and Redding — has sponsored pro-choice legislation that expands the eligibility of trained practitioners, nurses, and physician assistants to provide abortions, and blocks Texas and other states from targeting Connecticut patients, doctors and advocates.

The event is sponsored by UU Westport’s Reproductive Justice ​​Committee. The public is invited to the April 21 10 a.m. service, or the discussion only, which begins around 11:30 a.m.

Questions> Email beth@uuwestport.org, or call 203.227.7205, ext. 10.

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There’s a new “Passage” at Pasacreta Park.

That’s the name of Niki Ketchman’s new sculpture. It was installed yesterday at the peaceful oasis on Riverside Avenue, across from Saugatuck Elementary School.

The work is part of a joint initiative between the Westport Arts Advisory Committee, Westport Parks & Recreation Department and the Parks & Recreation Commission, to beautify town parks. It is on loan for 5 years.

Ketchman — whose work has been exhibited at the Katonah Museum, New Britain Museum of American Art, and the Aldrich and Bruce Museums — can  visit her work often. She has lived in Westport for almost 50 years. 

A public dedication is set for May 4 (4 p.m.).

Sculptor Niki Ketchman (umbrella) watches the installation of “Passage” at Pasacreta Park. (Photo courtesy of Nancy Diamond)

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The Westport Young Woman’s League is sponsoring 2 great — and very different — events.

The 45th annual Minute Man Race  Sunday, April 28 at Compo Beach.

The main event includes a certified USA Track and Field 10K run, 5K run, and 5K walk.

Kids Fun Run activities involve a 50-yard dash, 100-yard dash, 1/2-mile run and 1-mile run, featuring a Kids Zone during and after the race.

On-site refreshments include a food truck, ice cream truck and beer truck.

Race net proceeds benefit a number of area charities. Click here to register, and for more information.

The next day — Monday, April 29 (Christ & Holy Trinity Church, 11:30 a.m.)– the WYWL hosts a lunch with chef and TV host Lidia Bastianich.

The 3-course meal features Bastianich’s recipes. All attendees get a gift from Cuisinart. There’s also a free raffle.

VIP ticket holders meet Bastianich in person, take photos and get an autographed copy of her book, “From our Family Table to Yours.”

The event highlights the Young Woman’s League grant program. Click here for tickets and more information.

The start of a Minute Man race.

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The Rock & Roll Legends exhibit — dozens of Michael Friedman’s photos from the 1960s, including the Rolling Stones, The Band, Janis Joplin and more — draws a constant stream of visitors to the pop-up gallery on Church Lane.

On May 14 (7 p.m.), it will draw a large crowd for an Alzheimer’s Association fundraiser. 100% of ticket sales go the non-profit.

The event includes stories from Friedman himself, Q-and-A, and a raffle to win a photograph and signed book.

For tickets ($100), click here; then click “Donate to the Team” once, and — on the next page — “Donate to the Team” again.

Questions? Email mindiroca@yahoo.com, or call 914-806-3090.

Michael Friedman in his pop-up gallery. His photo shows Levon Helm, legendary drummer for The Band.

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Whether you watched this month’s solar eclipse in full totality (amazing, we’re told), or here in Westport (less so), you probably have a set or two of special sunglasses sitting around somewhere.

You can hold onto them for the next eclipse, years from now.

Or you can donate them to Astronomers Without Borders. The non-profit recycles them. Click here for more information.

The nearest collection sites are in Bethel and Shelton.

That’s a lot closer than the sun.

 

Recycle those eclipse glasses! (Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Seth van Beever ties together today’s “Westport … Naturally” image, and next month’s holiday: “This dogwood tree at 22 Treadwell Avenue was planted for my mom‘s first Mother’s Day, in 1976.”

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And finally … Dickey Betts died yesterday in Florida. He was 80, and suffered from cancer and chronic destructive pulmonary disease.

The New York Times called him “a honky-tonk hell raiser who, as a guitarist for the Allman Brothers Band, traded fiery licks with Duane Allman in the band’s early-1970s heyday, and who went on to write some of the band’s most indelible songs, including its biggest hit, ‘Ramblin’ Man.'” Click here for a full obituary.

(Have a great weekend! No matter what you plan, “06880” will be here for you. We’re your 24/7/365 hyper-local blog. We rely on reader support. Please click here — and thank you.)

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Posted in Downtown, Entertainment, Local business, Police, Politics, religion, Staples HS

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Rev. Taylor Renews A Contract — And A Congregation

Posted on April 11, 2024 | Comments Off on Rev. Taylor Renews A Contract — And A Congregation

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport does not rush things.

Whether the issue is tapping the endowment to pay for building maintenance, or where to stand on a social justice issue, members study and debate deliberately.

Then they act decisively.

That’s the process they’re taking to replace former minister Rev. Dr. John Morehouse.

When Rev. Alan Taylor showed interest in becoming interim minister — while still serving at Unity Temple in Oak Park, Illinois, where he’d developed a refugee resettlement program and mental health awareness team, engaged his church in legislative advocacy and charity work, and where his wife and teenage children were living happily — they worked out a hybrid model.

Rev. Taylor spends 10 days a month in Westport. Back home, he carries out his duties via email, Zoom and phone. He serves in partnered ministry with UU Westport’s longtime minister of music, Rev. Ed Thompson.

Rev. Alan Taylor

The Westport church still has not called a permanent minister. They’ve renewed Rev. Taylor’s contract for a second year, through August of 2025.

And there’s an option to renew it again, for one more year after that.

As he did a year ago, Rev. Taylor asked his family if the arrangement was okay. His wife, Angelica Taylor-Cortes, gave up her career as a language instructor and cross-cultural consultant to stay at home with their children, now 16 and 13.

Being away from his family one-third of every month is not easy. But, Rev. Taylor says, “my wife recognizes how fulfilled I am. This is such meaningful work, providing leadership to a congregation that was once a flagship in our denomination.”

The congregation is still, he says, “thoughtful and engaged. They want to create a community that benefits themselves, and the entire country.

“A significant number of folks want to figure out how to live their faith in a meaningful way, through charity, social justice and advocacy.”

Noted architect Victor Lundy designed Westport’s striking Unitarian Universalist building.

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport has a long, storied history. Activists like Jerry and Denny Davidoff were national leaders in the UU movement. The church played a major role too when Connecticut considered eliminating the death penalty.

Locally, Rev. Ed Lane had coordinated clergy to protest the Vietnam War.

Over the years though, the local church pulled back a bit. There was, Rev. Taylor learned, “a certain amount of conflict” over the past decade.

They always continued their charity work. During COVID, for example, the congregation provided meals in Bridgeport, by making sack lunches. It was the only organization to do so.

That type of problem-solving — and the Westport church’s history — appealed to Rev. Taylor, whose background included 3 years as a counselor for abused children, and working in Illinois on gun violence prevention, the criminal justice system, and with undocumented immigrants.

In Westport — and from his home office in Oak Park — Rev. Taylor wants to help the church here lay the groundwork for the next 25 or 30 years.

The sanctuary on Lyons Plains Road.

He is challenging the congregation to have “difficult conversations about what is important, both as a group and one-on-one. We need to understand what we really value.”

To do that, Rev. Taylor says, “individuals need to hear each other’s thoughts. These are not natural conversations to have. They take incredible energy. But they can be really beautiful.”

Church members like David Vita are, he notes, “very effective at this. They’re helping us figure out how to come together as a progressive faith community, and discern our core commitments.”

In Westport, Rev. Taylor has joined with other clergy on important projects. After October 7 he headed to Temple Israel, the congregation’s Coleytown Road neighbor.

In return, Rabbi Michael Friedman brought their Torah to the UU church.

Rev. Taylor has also taken his congregants to Bridgeport’s Islamic Center, to show solidarity.

The newly rehired interim minister looks forward to uniting the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport over the next 16 months.

Or perhaps the next 30.

Rev. Alan Taylor.

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Roundup: Parker Harding & Jesup Green, Memorial Day Grand Marshal, Traffic Safety Task Force …

Posted on April 9, 2024 | 18 comments

It took over 6 hours of talk. But early this morning, the Planning & Zoning Commission voted 4-3 in favor of plans to renovate Parker Harding Plaza, and add the spots lost there to Jesup Green.

Those parking spots would be at the top of the green.

Tonight (Tuesday, April 9, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium; click here for the livestream), the Representative Town Meeting votes on a request to spend $630,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for the design and redevelopment of both Jesup Green and the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

(Click here for a full report, from the Westport Journal.)

The Jesup Green parking plan.

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And the grand marshal of the 2024 Memorial Day parade is …

… Charles Lamb. He is a Korean War veteran, and a longtime civic volunteer.

The 95-year-old native of Springfield, Illinois joined the Navy in 1946, at 17. He was part of the Naval Aviation College Program.

In 1948 he was sent to Pensacola Naval Air Station. where he became a midshipman and started ground school. In 1950, age 21, he was designated a naval viator.

He amassed over 2,000 hours of flight time and earned 2 medals, each representing 20 aerial combat missions during the Korean War. He rose to the rank of lieutenant.

In 2022, the State of Connecticut recognized him for his patriotic service.

Lamb moved to Westport with his family in 1971, and still lives in the house they bought on Saugatuck Shores.

He served on the Representative Town Meeting (District 1) and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

This year’s Memorial Parade — the first in 54 years not overseen by Bill Vornkahl, who died in January — will be held on Monday, May 27, at 9 a.m. A ceremony follows the completion of the parade, on Veterans Green.

Charles Lamb will be grand marshal for the 2024 Memorial Day parade. After his remarks, a bugler will play “Taps.” 

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Westport’s Traffic & Pedestrian Safety Task Force has been listening, and acting.

On April 25 (7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), they’ll provide an update on their progress.

Residents will also be able to offer comments, and air concerns.

The event — coordinated by 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and the Public Works, Planning & Zoning, and Public Safety Departments — will include town employees experienced in traffic management, and well versed in roadway conditions, engineering, and speed calming solutions, as well as the regulations and oversight authority of the town.

Also in attendance: the consultants responsible for preparing Westport’s Safety Action Plan, funded by a federal grant.

Meanwhile, the town’s interactive, online survey is open for residents’ input. Click here for access.

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Plenty of Westporters thrilled to the University of Connecticut’s romp to its second straight NCAA men’s basketball title last night.

A few were in Glendale, Arizona. Many were at home. Some were in Gampel Pavilion, the Huskies’ court, where UConn hosted a viewing party.

Tomaso and Lucia Scotti — siblings, Staples graduates, and fellow students — found each other in the large crowd.

Tomaso graduates this spring with a fine arts degree. focusing on graphic design. He gives tours from his job at the rec center, where he is a fitness instructor.

Lucia has a leadership positions in the visitors center. She is a sophomore majoring in civil engineering, and will study in Italy next year.

Lucia and Tomaso Scotti say: “Go Huskies!”

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Besides UConn’s rousing victory yesterday, the other big news was the solar eclipse.

Dozens of Westporters sent photos to “06880.” Franco Fellah added a video.

He writes: “Too bad the conditions were pretty horrible and cloudy. Here is a time lapse of the entire eclipse, as seen from my front yard on Elmwood Road. It is composed of 160 images taken with a robotic telescope.”

Here it is: a much quicker look than you got yesterday.

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Also yesterday: The Westport Country Playhouse was buzzing, for the world premiere of 3 films. All were Triple Threat Academy productions, made by aspiring actors, singers and dancers under the guidance of professionals.

Two were largely student-produced: “Oceans Fourteen” and “Family Recipe.”

“Family Recipe” actors post, at the Westport Country Playhouse.

The feature was “Presumed Incompetent,” directed by Triple Threat founder (and former “Fame” star, and 1981 Staples High graduate) Cynthia Gibb, and written by Jill Johnson Mann.

Jill Johnson Mann and Cynthia Gibb, at the Playhouse.

“Presumed Incompetent” is based on the true story of Wynston Browne, the Staples High School junior with non-speaking autism and apraxia. He’s also the star of the film, which shows how a simple spelling device unlocks his very sharp brain. It’s life-changing — for him, his family, and all those around him who for too long presumed him to be incompetent.

“Presumed Incompetent” — which includes many local youngsters (and Gibb’s mother Linde) — is poignant, uplifting and inspiring. It heads next to festivals around the country.

Wynston Browne, at the “Presumed Incompetent” premiere. (All photos/Dan Woog)

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At 10 a.m. yesterday, a tree toppled. It took down power and cable to 160 homes — and started a brush fire.

The Westport Fire Department extinguished the blaze, but Wilton Road was closed to traffic.

Eversource restored power by 12:30 p.m., and the road was reopened.

(Photo/Steve Stein)

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Marriage equality for LGBTQ people was not always the law of the land. And the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport was not always a “welcoming congregation.”

The history of the local UU road’s to equality is the subject of a documentary film, “Welcome,” by longtime Westporter Rozanne Gates.

It’s being shown at (of course) the Westport church this Saturday (April 13, 7 p.m.). A discussion (and refreshments) will follow.

The showing is free, and the public is welcome.

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport.

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The Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for president campaign will be at Sherwood Island State Park this Saturday (April 13), from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

They’ll be collecting signatures, to get him on the Connecticut ballot in November. 12,000 are needed.

Click here for more details.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

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This week’s Jazz at the Post features saxophonists Dayna Stephens and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi,” in a tribute to the “two tenor sax front line” legacy.

Accompanying them are guitarist Kenny Wessel, bassist Steve LaSpina and drummer Tim Horner.

There are 2 shows this Thursday, at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399: 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Dinner service begins at 7. The music cover is $20 ($15 for veterans and students). Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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Longtime Westport resident George Erickson died peacefully at home on April 3. He was 86.

The Pelham, New York native earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Colgate University, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Nu fraternity.

After graduation he was an officer in the US Marine Corps, rising to captain.

George married Susan Ostrom in 1960. They moved to Quantico, Virginia, and later Westport.

George discovered a passion for restoring old houses, seeing potential that no one else would tackle. Beginning with a 1789 Federal home in Greens Farms, he then worked on homes in Southport, a summer home in Branford, and finally a Victorian on Mill Hill.

He often volunteered to drive vans for soccer tournaments, Scout camping trips and rides to college. He was almost always on the sidelines of games, concerts and graduation ceremonies, for children and grandchildren.

His career started as a Fuller Brush salesman in Westchester, then led to a marketing position at Glendinning, and ultimately his own direct mail business, Curriculum Resources. Owning his company allowed him the freedom he craved.

In Westport George enjoyed a friendship with Jon Fox (who he met in 7th grade). He and Susan traveled often. And ever the volunteer and proud Marine, George enjoyed building Memorial Day floats with the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

George is survived by his wife Susan, children Martha and Jonathan, and his grandchildren Guthrie, Aria, Riley, Nell, Mullein, Romy and Faye. He was predeceased by his daughter Kristin.

Donations in his name may be made to Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Fairfield County.

George Erickson

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Golf is not really part of our natural world.

But dogs sure are. Which is why this shot fits the bill for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Feel free to add your own caption.

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … on this day in 1682, Robert Cavelier de La Salle discovered the mouth of the Mississippi River. He claimed it for France, and named it Louisiana.

(Whether you’re in Westport, Louisiana, Mississippi or anywhere else: If you enjoy “06880,” please consider a tax-deductible donation. We rely on reader support. Click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: Political Donations, Dante, Matthew Modine …

Posted on March 30, 2024 | 3 comments

In the 13 months ending in February 2024, President Biden raised $3.17 million in individual contributions from Connecticut residents. Donald Trump brought in $1.4 million.

But, CT Mirror reports, Trump leads in the number of individuals who donated since last April: 31,708 to 5,925.

Westport is one of only 2 Fairfield County towns in which Biden drew more individual donations than Trump: 188 to 99. The other town is Sherman (10 to 2).

Click here for the full story, including an interactive map.

Donation map, showing which candidate had more donations in each Connecticut town. Biden is blue, Trump is red.

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Just in time for Easter, the full soundtrack for “Dante: Inferno to Paradise, Part 2: Resurrection” is available for streaming.

Emmy- and Grammy-winning composer (and Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate) Brian Keane scored the music — his latest success, in a wide-ranging career of writing, producing and recording.

Click here to download.

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Speaking of video:

Matthew Modine (“Oppenheimer,” “Full Metal Jacket”) will be at the Westport Library for a free screening of his new documentary, “Downwind” (April 11, 6:30 p.m.)

He’ll  be joined by his producing partner, Adam Rackoff. They’ll discuss the movie afterward, then answer audience questions.

“Downwind” tells the story of what happened after the events depicted in “Oppenheimer.” It focuses on Mercury, Nevada, the testing site for 928 large-scale nuclear weapons from 1951 to 1992.

Featuring members of the Shoshone Nation and many others affected by the radioactive fallout from those tests, the documentary “uncovers the US government’s disregard for everyone and everything living ‘downwind.’”

“Downwind” currently holds a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

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Happy Easter weekend!

Jolantha – Weston’s favorite pig –was inspired by a poem by Wordsworth. As she gets ready for tomorrow’s holiday, she is “dancing with daffodils.”

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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Speaking of Easter: Pam Docters spotted these decorations on Wilton Road, in yesterday’s spring-like weather.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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Spotted this morning in the Compo Beach area:

(Photo/Richard Gabor)

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Tuesday, April 2 is “Donation Day” at Shake Shack.

Mention “Donation Day” at the register or drive-thru, or use the promo code “Donateburger” on their app.

Shake Shack will give 25% of your total meal price to the Cancer Couch Foundation, a breast cancer research organization.

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There have never been bathroom facilities at Old Mill Beach.

And — judging from the reaction after a port-a-potty was proposed for the small stretch of sand — there never will be.

But one intrepid owner of a parking garage (for nearby homes) facing Sherwood Mill Pond has solved the problem:

(Photo/Oliver Radwan)

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Dr. Alice Paul was one of the early 20th century’s most prominent women’s rights activists.

She was one of the keys to the passage of the 19th Amendment, and in 1923 introduced the Equal Rights Amendment.

Dr. Paul was a 40-year resident of Ridgefield.

On April 13 (2 p.m.), the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport hosts a talk with Darla Shaw, who worked with Dr. Paul for many years, here in Fairfield County. The public is invited.

Dr. Alice Paul

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Last year’s 1st-ever National Drinking with Chickens Day was such a success, Wakeman Town Farm is bringing it back.

Next months event (May 23, 6:30 p.m.) features live music by Luke Molina, light bite including pizza by Tony Napolitano, craft cocktails by mixxed.by.ed, and guest appearances by the WTF flock.

Tickets to the hen party are $100 each. Click here to register … then shake a tail feather.

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Bobbi Essagof spotted this dove — today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — on her Saugatuck Avenue deck.

“Peace ahead?” she wonders.

From her lips to …

(Photo/Bobbi Essagof)

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And finally … speaking of chickens (see story) above:

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and your source for everything Westport-related, yesterday, today and tomorrow. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: School Redistricting, Capital Spending, Riverside Avenue …

Posted on March 23, 2024 | 8 comments

In 2018, the Board of Education broached the subject of redistricting.

It went nowhere.

Another attempt — the first in over a quarter century — has begun. It involves only the 5 elementary schools.

A demographer consultant presented the first scenarios Thursday night, at the BOE meeting.

The first phase, in the 2025-26 school year, would balance enrollment between Long Lots, Greens Farms and Saugatuck Elementary Schools.

Phase II (2026-27) would balance enrollment between Kings Highway and Coleytown Els.

Click here for the full report.

Students at Kings Highway and Saugatuck Elementary Schools celebrated Earth Day together last year.

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Several big capital spending projects loom in Westport.

What are the rationales, goals and processes?

Town Hall and Westport Public Schools leaders share insights this Tuesday (March 26. 7 p.m., Westport Library), in a community conversation.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice will present their capital spending strategies and rationales. A panel of experts will discuss possible funding strategies, capital planning best practices, and the approval process for achieving capital spending goals. An audience Q-and-A session follows.

The event is sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Westport, and the Westport Library’s Common Ground initiative.

Longshore is one of several large capital projects planned for the future.

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Two virtual meetings next week have implications for Riverside Avenue.

Oak trees on 2 properties host bald eagles that perch in the trees while fishing. The trees may be removed if development plans go through.

On Monday (March 25, 7 p.m.), the Planning & Zoning Commission continues with Text Amendment #841. That involves a 1756 house, at 125 Riverside. Click here for more information; click here for the Zoom link.

The next night (March 26, 7:30 p.m.), the RTM Environment Committee discusses development on the Saugatuck River at 79 and 125 Riverside Avenue, and its impact on wildlife. Click here for the Zoom link.

Part of the property near 79 Riverside Avenue.

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In the 6 years since the Parkland High School shooting, Fred Guttenberg has become one of America’s most prominent anti-gun violence advocates.

On May 21 (noon), he’s the guest speaker at CT Against Gun Violence’s spring benefit luncheon. He’ll discuss his — and his fellow activists’ — efforts to turn pain into purpose, as well his book “Find the Helpers: What 9/11 and Parkland Taught Me about Recovery, Purpose and Hope.”

Since its founding in 1993, CAGV has lobbied effectively for some of the strongest gun laws in the country. ​

They were behind Connecticut’s 1993 assault weapons ban, the 3rd in the nation. Since Sandy Hook, they’ve  worked closely with the state legislature to enact universal background checks, an expanded assault weapons ban, and limits on large capacity magazines.​

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone are stars of a new film, “Eddington.”

They’ll be joined by a rising young star: Cameron Mann.

The Staples High School senior  played the surprise killer in “Mare of Easttown.” He has been seen on “For Life,” Law & Order,” “New Amsterdam” and “Daredevil” — and had significant roles with Staples Players.

The film began production this month.

Cameron Mann (Photo/Michael Kushner)

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Today’s predicted rain has postponed WestportMoms’ Easter Egg hunt to this coming Friday (March 29, 11:45 a.m. for 2-5-year-olds, 12:30 p.m. for 6+ — schools are closed, for Good Friday).

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Tomorrow’s (Sunday, 10:30 a.m.) trash clean-up is along Greens Farms Road, and the Sherwood Island Connector.

Volunteers are welcome. Park at the transfer station on the Connector, or the office building at 55-57 Greens Farms Road.

This is the perfect time — before the leaves return — to clean up this heavily trashed area.

Dress warmly, wear boots, and bring garbage bags.

Questions? Email acolabella@westportct.gov.

These folks picked up trash last month. Now it’s your turn!

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Just a week remains in the Westport Transit District’s annual poetry contest.

This year’s theme is “acrostics.” That’s where the first letter of each line spells something special — in this case, “Wheels2U.” For example:

Why are you still driving?
How about trying the bus?
Easy,
Efficicent,
Lively conversation with fellow commuters.
Simple to use
2 get to the train.
U should give it a try.

Gift certificates to Westport restaurants of their choice — ranging from $100 to $25 — will be given to the top 7 poems.

The contest is open to all residents of Westport. Enter as often as you like.

Entries should be sent to pgold@westportct.gov no later than March 30. Put “Acrostic Contest” in the subject line; include your name, address and email. For more details, click here and scroll down.

Wheels2U.

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“Bonfire from the Holy Spirit” –the first single from 1971 Staples High School graduate Brian Keane’s soundtrack from the new PBS “Dante” series — has been released.

Click here to listen, and download. Click here for more on Keane, and the show.

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From time to time, “06880” posts “entitled parking” photos.

This one — from the heart of Main Street — is equal parts entitled and thoughtless.

(Photo/Evan Chevrier)

What’s even more remarkable, says photographer Evan Chevrier, is that at the time he took the image, there were no other cars in front of or behind them.

At least that made driving away easy.

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“Rumors” — Neil Simon’s fast-paced farce — is on stage tonight (Saturday, March 23, 7 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, March 24, 2 p.m.) at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport.

There’s a suggested donation of $25, for the UU Players’ performance.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature combines something created by nature, and another by man.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … on this day in 1775, patriot Patrick Henry delivered his most famous line — “Give me liberty, or give me death!” – at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Richmond.

(Today — and every day — “06880” fills you in on what happened, is happening, and will happen in Westport. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Flooding, Northern Lights …

Posted on March 10, 2024 | 6 comments

Yesterday’s rain was an annoyance to many Westporters.

To residents of Saugatuck Shores, it meant another high tide flood.

This was the scene looking north on Canal Road:

(Photo/Matt Fortuna)

A few hours later, Canal Road looked like this:

(Photo/Yulee Aronson)

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The Brubeck Brothers Quartet rocked the Westport Library last night, for a special fundraiser. Proceeds support the Library’s vast array of free programs and offerings.

The Brubeck Brothers Quartet is led by Chris (bass and trombone) and Dan Brubeck (drums), sons of the jazz legend who lived in Wilton. They recorded their first album in 1966. Rounding out the group is guitarist Mike DeMicco and pianist Chuck Lamb.

Chris told stories about the family. Home movies added to the warm atmosphere.

The group has performed across North America and Europe, including Newport, Detroit, Montreal, The Hollywood Bowl, and Monterey Jazz festivals.

Now they can add the Westport Library to the list.

Brubeck Brothers Quartet, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

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Last year, 7-year-old Evelyn Sullivan was a leading participant in the Westport Weston Family YMCA Race4Chase triathlon training program. It honors Chase Kowalski, a victim of the Sandy Hook shooting.

Head coach  Robin Myers worked with Evelyn and 18 other youngsters, strengthening their swimming, biking and running skills, while they enjoyed team building and learned about nutrition.

Evelyn and her mother Sarah raised over $700 for the Chase Michael Anthony Kowalski Foundation. Illness and bad weather kept her from her first 2 triathlons, but she’s resilient. She’s ready for this summer.

The Race4Chase program returns to the Y this summer — at no cost to participants. It runs 5 days a week from June 24 to August 2, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, and registration, click here.

Westport Y 2023 Race4Chase triathlon program participants.

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Sure, the new apartments going up on Wilton Road at Kings Highway North corner have everyone talking about the massive change coming to the already congested intersection, a few yards from wetlands.

But it wouldn’t be worth an “06880” photo without the massive amount of utility lines, hanging all around the site.

(Photo/Terry Brannigan)

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In the waning days of winter, “Northern Lights” come to the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport.

That’s the name of a concert this Friday (March 15, 7:30 p.m.). It features choral and bell music inspired by the Northern Lights, stars and sky, plus music and composers from northern countries.

Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door; click here to purchase. Children and students are free.

Northern Lights

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We’re a long way from Thanksgiving.

But yesterday was Turkey Day at St. Vincent’s Health Services on Long Lots Road.

Meredith Holod caught all the action, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Meredith Holod)

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And finally … in honor of yesterday’s flock (photo above):

 (“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and we rely on reader support. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Cigar & Vape Break-In, Muddy Brook Meeting, Finance Workshop …

Posted on February 21, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Cigar & Vape Break-In, Muddy Brook Meeting, Finance Workshop …

Thieves slammed a car into Westport Cigar & Vape early yesterday morning. They grabbed the cash register and some e-cigarette items, then fled.

Westport Police officers arriving at the shop between Fortuna’s and Greens Farms Spirits shortly after the alarm was activated at 4:50 a.m. found the front door smashed in.

Surveillance video showed 3 teenagers, wearing dark clothing, hoodies and gloves.

The incident is under investigation. Police are unsure if it is related to a similar incident — also yesterday morning — in Shelton.

Westport Cigar & Vape, before the break-in.

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An informational meeting to discuss flood mitigation measures and bridge replacements planned along Muddy Brook, from Hillandale Road to Greens Farms Road, is set for March 7 (7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

Department of Public Works engineers, and the bridge project’s design engineer, will present the latest plans and findings. They’ll also answer questions from the public.

Questions? Contact town engineer Keith Wilberg: kwilerg@westportct.gov; 203-341-1128.

The Greens Farms Road bridge, at Muddy Brook. (Photo/Wendy Crowther)

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The Board of Finance will hold an informal budget workshop next Tuesday (February 27, 6 p.m., Westport Library).

They’ll discuss the 1st Selectwoman’s preliminary budget requests for the Department of Human Services, the Parks & Recreation Department/Wakeman Town Farm, and the Department of Public Works/Sewer Fund.

Wakeman Town Farm funding is on the Board of Finance workshop agenda. (Photo/Amy Schneider)

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For kids at Wakeman Town Farm, spring* means spending time with baby animals, planting, and fun projects.

Click here for information on WTF’s youth program. Registration — via the Parks & Recreation Department website — begins at 9 a.m. on March 14. Click here to access that site.

*Here in less than a month — it arrives March 19.

How you gonna keep ’em down on the Farm?

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Choral Chameleon is well named.

The New York ensemble works in a dynamic blend of genres and art forms — whatever type of choral music is called for, whenever they’re called to perform.

This Saturday (February 24, 7:30 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport), they’ll perform a world premiere a cappella concert. Their theme this year is “Changing,” and the show includes a wide variety of musical genres.

There’s a light reception afterward, with group members.

The suggested ticket price is $25. Click here to order. For more information,  click here.

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Warrior posed near the Compo Beach war memorial — the cannons honoring our battle against the British in 1777 — for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Cohl Katz)

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And finally … Randy Sparks, a founder of the long-lived and influential New Christy Minstrels, died Sunday in San Diego. He was 90.

Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Old Mill Grocery & Deli, Good Samaritan, Parker’s Cure …

Posted on January 19, 2024 | 4 comments

Old Mill Grocery & Deli is back!

The doors to what is now known as Old Mill Grocery & Deli by Romanacci swung open this morning. They’ll be there from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

The new operators welcome neighborhood residents, beach walkers and joggers and bicyclists, and anyone else in town (and out) to stop by and check them out.

You won’t be disappointed!

Old Mill Grocery & Deli by Romanacci

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On Tuesday, Donald Lowman headed to New York. Without a sticker, he parked in the Greens Farms station daily lot — up the hill, near the school buses.

When he arrived back at 10:30 p.m., he realized his nice leather shoes were inadequate for going down the hill, across the street and up the next hill.

Suddenly, a Jeep pulled up. The woman in the passenger seat said, “Jump in. We can take you wherever you need to go.”

They would have driven him all the way home. Instead, they delivered him to his car.

The couple said they’d wait to see if his car started. But the door handle was frozen.

The driver got out, found his windshield scraper and handed it over. Don scraped the ice off the handle.

He got in, turned on the defroster, and told his saviors they were a godsend.

“I would not have been able to make it down or up the hills near the station, and would have gotten seriously injured if I tried,” Don says. 

“Their simple, timely, random act of kindness was unbelievably important and appreciated. And it offset the admittedly cynical views of other people that I have developed over the past several years of watching increasingly selfish motorists endangering or inconveniencing others.

“There are some truly wonderful people in our town, and it was my luck to run into 2 of the best.  Stories like these renew one’s faith in the generosity and selflessness of others.”

Navigating Greens Farms station’s hills is no easy task. Al Willmott captured this scene years ago.

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This Sunday, as many people march across America to support women’s rights, the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport will sponsor a teach-in on abortion.

REACH (Reproductive Equity, Access and CHoice) will lead the 11:30 a.m., which begins with a free brunch. They’ll discuss abortion access from a social justice point of view, across all communities.

Attendees are invited to wear a pink pussycat hat or other branded item. Questions: Email events@uuwestport.org.

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When Parker Greenberg was born in 2016, her parents instantly knew something was not right.

She was born with a very rare genetic condition, HIST1H1E Syndrome that leaves her with severe special needs. Hers was the 8th case diagnosed worldwide, a week before her second birthday.

Daily life is a challenge for the young Westporter. She sees a large team of specialists, has undergone many surgeries, and had plenty of medical scares.

Yet, her mother Kimberly says, “our determined little girl has never given up. She continues to teach us new things daily, including how to stay positive.”

The Greenbergs thank the Star Rubino Center, Stepping Stones Preschool and Coleytown Elementary School for being instrumental to Parker’s success.

Her family set up Parker’s Cure, a non-profit foundation for families facing HIST1H1E Syndrome. Funds raised go to research into the disease.

On January 26, the foundation hosts its 2nd annual Bowlin & Booze Bash (Bowlero Lanes, Norwalk). Tickets (click here) include 2 1/2 hours of bowling, an open bar and food.

There’s an auction too, with sports tickets, autographed memorabilia, JL Rocks jewelry, experiences and more.

Bidding begins January 24 (9 a.m.), and closes at midnight January 27. Click here for more information.

Parker Greenberg (left) and her family.

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Two Westport icons are joining forces.

Amy Simon Fine Art is collaborating on an exhibition at Christian Siriano’s The Collective West.

The launch — featuring the art of Amy Genser, Donald martiny and René Romero Schuler — is January 25 (6 to 9 p.m.),

Questions? Email info@amysimonfineart.com, or call 203-259-1500.

Christian Soriano, in The Collective West.

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More art news: Sorelle Gallery is going to the dogs.

A reception and artist talk February 10 (2 to 5 p.m., 19 Church Lane) for their exhibition and artist talk featuring Russell Miyaki will benefit local rescue organizations Dog Star Rescue and Westport Animal Shelter Advocates.

Dogs available for adoption will be on site, along with doggie bags and a raffle by Earth Animal. All pups are welcome, for “bone bar” treats from Pet Pantry.

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Sure, there was a Polar Plunge on New Year’s Day. But the temperature was positively balmy — almost 50.

A group of Westporters plunges often at Compo Beach, all winter long. This week, with the air temperature just 28 degrees, and the water a near-freezing 38, they were at it for their usual 10 minutes or so.

Come summer, they swim for 2 hours.

And, presumably, spend a bit more time chatting afterward.

From left: Derek Yach, Markus Marty, Miroslaw Krzysztof. I’m freezing just looking at this photo.

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Stop the presses (pun intended): National Coffee Break Day is January 20.

To celebrate, Green & Tonic offers coffee lovers a chance to win free coffee for a year — and an overnight getaway at the Delamar Greenwich Harbor.

One gold sticker and 6 green stickers will be hidden on the bottoms of Supr Brew Coffee, latte and tea cups. The grand prize winner gets the goods above. The other 6 will enjoy free Supr Brew Coffee for a year.

The contest runs until February 11. Which is, of course, National Latte Day.

Win your free coffee here!

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Registration opens February 1 for the CT Challenge. The July 28 bi7e ride — with distances of 10, 25, 40, 62, 100 and virtual — raises funds for the local non-profit Mission. They help 16.9 million cancer survivors in Connecticut and throughout the US rebuild, improve and prolong their lives through exercise, nutrition, mind-body health and community-building support programs.

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

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Longtime Weston resident Claire Sansone died suddenly and peacefully last week. She was 85.

While attending Queens College, she met Ronny Sansone. She was crowned “sweetheart” of Beta Phi. They married in 1962.

They moved from Floral Park, Long Island to Weston in 1974, and remained in their beloved home for nearly 50 years.

Claire worked for more than a decade as a State of Connecticut Department of Children Youth Services social worker. She placed foster children in safe homes, and arranged adoptions. After retirement, she received many letters and pictures from her adopted and foster placements, thanking her for helping change their lives.

Claire enjoyed spending time with her family. Orchestrating trips was a passion.

She is survived by her children Janine (Stuart), Ronald (Kim) and Robert (Kristina), and grandchildren Isabelle and Sophia Levine and Enzo Sansone. She was predeceased by her husband Ronald, and and brothers Armand and Thomas Rainville.

A private graveside service will be held tomorrow (Saturday, January 20, Willowbrook Cemetery).

Claire Sansone

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Oh, deer!

This one seems to take this week’s snowfall in stride.

Claudia Sherwood Servidio snapped today’s “Westport .. Naturally” shot at Cross Highway. near Main Street.

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … in honor of Green & Tonic’s contest, which itself honors National Coffee Break Day (story above):

(After you’ve had your coffee, please consider a contribution to the hottest blog around. Just click here. Thanks!)

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