One in 4 women, and 1 in 7 men, experience it in their lifetime. In Connecticut, 19 people died in family violence homicides last year alone.
Westport is not immune. In fiscal year 2025 the Domestic Violence Crisis Center — a counseling and advocacy organization serving victims and their children in lower Fairfield County — conducted 23 “lethality assessments.” 26% were identified as high danger, prompting immediate intervention by DVCC and law enforcement.
Nearly every week, Westport Police report an arrest prompted by a domestic argument.
Dr. Wendy Levy is a member of the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force, and a DVCC Advisory Council member.
She says, “Domestic, or interpersonal, violence happens regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion or socioeconomic status.
“It happens here in Westport, but is sadly underreported or acknowledged due to stigma, shame or economic realities.”
DVCC CEO Suzanne Adam notes, “Domestic violence is a process, not an event.
“It’s a pattern of power and control that develops over time. Understanding that complexity is critical to helping survivors find safety and healing.”
Leaving an abusive relationship seems simple or immediate.
However, advocates say it often takes several attempts before a survivor can safely and permanently leave.
In fact, leaving can be “the most dangerous time for a survivor,” Adam says.
DVCC provides comprehensive support before, during and after that decision.
DVCC counselors say that not every survivor wants to end their relationship. Sometimes, they simply want the violence to stop. The organization “supports their choices, and helps them build safety and stability on their own terms.
“Victims are the experts in their own lives. Our job is not to tell them what to do, but to equip them with the tools and information to make empowered decisions.”
Westport Police Captain Jill Cabana — who heads our town’s Domestic Violence Task Force — has sat on DVCC’s board.
She calls the non-profit “a group of committed and passionate individuals, truly doing God’s work.”
Westporter Stacy Reilly, a DVCC volunteer and Advisory Board member, is a former witness of domestic violence toward her mother, and inappropriate conduct toward herself,
She works with DVCC to “help foster a safer, more compassionate community, and help men, women and children rebuild their lives, giving them the chance to start again.”
Since 1980, the DVCC has done that, through education and support.
Their services include 24-hour crisis intervention through a hotline, the Lethality Assessment Program, 2 emergency safe houses, legal advocacy, trauma-informed counseling for adults and children, housing and financial sustainability support, and prevention education.
All services are multicultural, multilingual, free and confidential. DVCC’s annual budget of $3.9 million includes nearly half raised from private donations.
The average shelter stay is now 104 days — a vast increase from the 19-day average before the pandemic. Housing scarcity and financial instability keeps them in shelters, as they work toward independence.
DVCC’s counseling services include child enrichment services at the safe house.
Legal support in FY ’25 involved 2,779 victims. Advocates help victims obtain orders of protection, and are present at arraignments and criminal hearings. Consultations also cover child support, custody, divorce and alimony.
Financial assistance includes housing, employment and credit support services.
Education is a key component of DVCC’s work. In Westport alone, 1,052 students learned how to recognize unhealthy relationship dynamics, and provides tools to intervene safely.
The Westport Domestic Violence Task Force, meanwhile, covers a wide range of services. They collect supplies for victims (including gift cards from salons), raise awareness and provide information.
October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month. But Fairfield County’s Domestic Violence Crisis Center, and the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force, work 24/7, 12 months a year.
To learn more, click here for the DVCC, or email the Westport group: wdvtf06880@gmail.com. The DVCC hotline is 203-588-9097.
In October, then-1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (front, 2nd from left) proclaimed “Domestic Violence Awareness Month” in Westport. She posed at Town Hall with DVCC CEO Suzanne Adam, members of the Fairfield County and Westport organizations, and other officials.
As students head off to college, they pack many things: Clothes. Electronics. Favorite items from home.
And: Narcan.
Positive Directions offers a safety kit with the medication that quickly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, plus fentanyl test strips and more.
There’s also a 15-20 minute info session on mental health, substance risks and resources at college, including overdose signs and how to administer Narcan.
“Who knows what will come of the legendary caboose that has lived off Newtown Turnpike for decades?
“For months, a large demolition sign has been on the door of the house (120 Newtown Turnpike, or 1 Crow Hollow Lane) that the caboose sits in the rear of.”
The demolition sign …
“Legend has it the caboose was flown in, as in literally dropped via air, by a doting father for his daughter’s birthday party. And so it has been there for years, now encroached by brush, no one living in or near, though at one point it was an office for the nearby house.
… and the caboose today. (Photos/Jessica Branson)
“Neighbors hope the caboose will stay when ‘the little red house’ is finally torn down.”
In 2016, “06880” featured the caboose — and Gigi New, the writer who used it as her office (and muse). Click here for that fascinating back story.(Spoiler alert: It includes plenty of facts. And a lot of mystery.)
The caboose in 2016 …
and writer Gigi New, who used it as an office. (Photos/Dan Woog)
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For Steve Moen, painting means returning — to physical places and emotional landscapes.
For the 1972 Staples High School artist, his “Circling Back” series began with visits back to Westport, where his childhood memories live in tidal marshes, rocks and boulders along the shore.
The exhibit is on display at the Westport Library’s Sheffer Gallery from now through October 5. On August 13 Moen returns, for a 6 p.m. reception and 7 p.m. conversation with Artists Collective of Westport co-founder Miggs Burroughs. Click here for more information.
Speaking of sports: An “06880” story about Westport’s Domestic Violence Task Force request for donations of items needed by their clients caught the eye of the Staples cheerleaders. They wanted to help women in need.
The captains asked dteammates to bring an item from the list to the next practice.
But — wanting to raise more awareness, and collect more items — they reached out to the football team.
With help from the Gridiron Club and captains, they collected many more items.
The other day, they dropped off their donations at the police station. The officers — and “06880” — thank the Staples cheerleaders and football team!
A portion of the cheeerleading and football teams’ donations.
Speaking of community service: In just 2 weeks, the Westport Rotary Club collected 153 musical instruments, and assorted sound gear.
They ranged from drums, guitars and keyboards to ukeleles, clarinets, flutes — even music stands and conductor’s batons.
The collection — worth about $14,000 — is being shipped to the Youth Orchestra of Ecuador.
Green’s Farms Church served as the collection point. Westport Rotary president Peter Helt drove all over Fairfield County to pick up donations, then hauled it all to New London, for shipping.
Speaking still of community service: Staples High rising junior Mika Smith volunteers with the National Charity League.
Organizing book drives for Caroline House in Bridgeport, she has collected 2,000 books over the past 3 years.
This year Mike and her sister Gretchen — a rising freshman — also customized tote bags to deliver the books. They’ll be used long after the books are delivered — and will be a constant reminder of Caroline House’s great work.
Mika and Gretchen Smith, with their donated books and tote bags.
Low Cut Connie got the Levitt Pavilion rocking last night.
They brought a creative, inclusive take on rock ‘n’ roll, channeling early Elton John, punk, Rod Stewart, Philly soul and other genres into a musical stew.
(Photo/copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
Frontman Adam Weiner often jumped into the audience, to sing — and dole out hugs.
(Photo courtesy of Levitt Pavilion)
This week’s free shows include:
Tuesday, August 5: Comedy Night, 7 p.m.
Wednesday, August 6: Children’s Series: Danny Weinkauf & His Red Pants Band, 7 p.m.
Thursday, August 7: Barboletta: A Tribute to Santana, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, August 8: Lulada Club: New York City’s All-Women Salsa Orchestra, 7 p.m. dance lesson, 7:30 show.
For over 20 years, St. Vincent’s Hospital “Swim Across the Sound” has raised funds to help cancer patients facing financial hardships. Last year’s event raised $590,000, to help pay for rent, utility bills and groceries.
The 17-mile swim begins in Port Jefferson, Long Island, and ends at Captain’s Cove in Bridgeport.
Among the boaters escorting swimmers yesterday: Westport Josh Schwartz. Here is the Clarkson University swim team — before they got wet:
When they got in the water — and back out — they finished third, in the college division.
“They weigh about as much as a penny, and have approximately 20 heartbeats per second. It takes a lot of energy to keep up that pace, so the hummingbird will eat up to 3 times its body weight a day. One of their favorite sources of energy is the jewelweed, a native yellow flower.
“Some of them migrate from Southern Canada as far as Costa Rica. They can cross the Gulf of Mexico — approximately 500 miles — in a non-stop single flight.
“Their aerial displays are unmatched. Up, down, backwards and forwards, hovering and with great speed, they are marvels to watch.
“As we continue to eradicate green open space, such as the planned destruction of the 4 acres of open space adjacent to Long Lots Elementary School, we continue chipping away at the ability of our beautiful natural environment to sustain itself.
“Destroying green open space like this is exactly the opposite of what we are teaching our kids in school, and is in direct contrast to helping a world that seems to be falling apart at its environmental seams.”
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And finally … tying together a couple of the first items in today’s Roundup:
(You never know what you’ll find in our Roundup. But there’s always something special here — and, hopefully, news and info you can use. We also hope you’ll click here to support us. Thank you!)
Westport residents interested in running for the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) can pick up a petition at the Town Clerk’s office, starting today.
To qualify for the November 4 ballot, candidates must collecct at least 25 signatures from registered voters in their district. Completed petitions must be returned to the town clerk by September 9.
The RTM is a 36-member, nonpartisan legislative body. Four representatives are elected from each of 9 voting districts. Members serve two-year terms.
RTM members play a vital role in town governance. They vote on appropriation requests over $20,000, approve town ordinances, provide final approval of the town budget, and serve on committees that review and make recommendations on budgetary and legislative matters. They may also review certain decisions made by town boards and commissions.
For more information about the petition process or other election questions, contact Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton: 203-341-1105; jdunkerton@westportct.gov.
Yesterday marked a jolly good opening for Gruel Britannia.
The new Cross Highway restaurant — an outpost of the very popular Southport spot, taking over the vacant Porch @ Christie’s — was packed from the moment the doors opened.
Neighbors, other Westporters from further away, Fairfield fans, construction workers, delivery people — all were impressed with the menu, the interior, and owner Karen Hubrich’s welcoming vibe.
Today marks the beginning of the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force drive.
They’re collecting household items for clients at their 2 safe houses. Supplies are part of “move-in baskets,” which help recipients transition into apartments.
Items needed include
Laundry detergent
Laundry baskets
Plastic reusable plates
Plastic reusable utensils
Dish soap
Sponges
Dish towels
Hand towels and washcloths
Condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc.)
Tin foil
Plastic wrap
Parchment paper
Toilet paper
Paper towels
Disinfecting wipes
Brooms and mops
Dustpans
Paper napkins
Hand soap
Donations can be dropped off in the lobby at the Westport Police station, through July 29.
As “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Assocation put the final touches on this Sunday’s Soundview Summer Stroll (July 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), we’re looking for a few teenagers (or parents!) to help run games and fun for little kids, in 1-2 hour shifts.
It’s already organized. We just need helping hands! If interested, please email at kristinemott@gmail.com.
Meanwhile, get ready to enjoy live music, eat, play, stroll, Rollerblade, and otherwise enjoy the Compo Beach exit road — closed to all traffic — on Sunday.
An “06880” reader whose home abuts the Longshore golf course writes: “During the 4 years we have lived here, we have found empty beer cans, candy wrappers and the like on our rear property.
“On Sunday, one of my granddaughters discovered 2 empty Coors cans.
“Of course, there’s a teaching lesson for them: Respect other people’s property, don’t litter, etc.
“However, the real lesson is: Golfers and other Longshore attendees are disrespectful to their neighbors.
“My husband and I are shocked that we live in aqqa community that has no respect for our property. We thought when we moved here Westport was a kind,caring and respectful community. We sadly are finding that that is not the case.
“Everyone should treat their neighbors’ property in the same manner they would like others to treat their property.”
The back of a Longshore-area resident’s property.
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The Westport Police Department says: Connecticut is updating its e-bike laws.
Effective October 1, e-bikes without pedals, and with batteries over 750 watts, will now be classified as motor-driven cycles. A driver’s license will be required to operate them.
E-bikes over 3,500 watts are expected to need registration and insurance — similar to motorcycles.
Class 1–3 e-bikes are not affected. They still will noto require a license.
Police say tell parents: “As you shop for e-bikes, keep these changes in mind –especially for younger riders. If a bike performs like a motorcycle, it may not be the right fit for a child just yet.”
Speaking of transportation: Spaces in the Westport Weston Family YMCA parking lot closest to the Merritt Parkway are narrower than in other rows.
There are “Compact Cars Only” signs. But not a lot. They’re easy to miss.
What’s not easy to miss is when you have to squeeze into a spot. And come within millimeters of scraping the car next to you. Like this driver:
I’m pretty certain the green car was already there.
Getting in was the easy part. Getting out will be much harder.
It’s always amazed me that people will do anything they can, to park as close to the Y as possible.
So they can then go inside, and work out.
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Westport is home to all kinds of summer camps. Cello, art, computer, SAT prep — you name, there’s something for you.
Including water polo.
Northeast Elite offers an August 4-9 camp for middle and high school students. Experienced and new players are all welcome. It’s non-competitive and focused on fundamentals, with both land and water activities.
It’s the 6th year for this special opportunity — and it certainly is unique. The site is Schlaet’s Point, right off Compo Beach. Click here for more information.
Coach Danilo Sierra-Giraldo, at the Northeast Elite water polo camp.
Speaking of water sports: Congratulations to Zadie Schatz!
The young Westport swimmer — a rising 8th grader at Pierrepont School — earned 1 gold and 3 silver medals, 4 junior national times (100 breast, 200 breast, 200 IM, 400 IM), and a few national swimming news mentions at the recent Novato Sectionals in California.
Her 100 breaststroke time is 0.7 seconds away from last year’s Olympic trial cut — very unusual for a 13-year-old, particularly a dual sport athlete (she also plays water polo).
Sectional meets are open age, so she raced against adults and college athletes too.
Congratuations too to Zadie’s Stamford Sailfish teammate and fellow Westporters, Connor Cheung
The 15-year old, who will be a Staples High School sophomore this fall, placed 51st, 97th and 105th in, respectively, the 50 free, 100 free and 200 free.
Zadie Schatz
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Like all reunion classes, they can’t believe it’s been xx years.
But Staples High School’s Class of 1980 celebrates their 45th reunion next month.
They’ll meet Friday, August 15 at the VFW. They’ll spend Saturday afternoon and evening at Compo Beach, with dinner from the Szabo Seafood truck.
As always, they’ll raise money for their beloved classmate Susan Lloyd, and the Susan Fund that for over 50 years has provided more than $2 million in scholarships, to Fairfield County residents with cancer. Funds will come from a raffle of art, by Class of ’80 artists.
For more information on the reunion, and to register, click here. Questions? Email Amy Potts: amy@aapk.com.
Susan Lloyd
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When vocalist/actor/writer Abena Koomson-Davis sat in with her husband at Jazz at the Post, she brought the VFW house down.
This Thursday, the 3-time Tony winner — who has performed with Stevie Wonder and recorded with Natalie Merchant — headlines her own shows (July 24, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $20; $15 veterans and students).
Koomson-Davis will be joined by pianist Rick Germanson, bassist Matt Dworszyk, drummer Jonathan Barber and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for reservations.
PS: Even if you’re not a jazz fan, check out the performance below. Spectacular!
Also this Thursday (July 24): The Fairfield County Dance Festival returns to Westport (6:30 p.m., MoCA CT). The free, outdoor performance features the Amy Marshall Dance Company and New England Ballet Theater.
All are welcome — from longtime dance enthusiasts to families looking for a fun summer evening outside.
(From the RTM and Gruel Britannia to e-bikes and water polo, “06880”‘s Roundup has it all. That’s the way we roll. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
More environmental news: Though yesterday was gorgeous (and the last full day of summer), the near-full moon and high tide brought flooding at Quentin Road by Compo Beach Road.
(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)
An odd-looking scene, for sure.
But perhaps something that will soon be the new normal?
Speaking (still) of the environment — as autumn has us thinking about trees and leaves — “06880” reader (and former federal attorney) Scooter Swanson cites Connecticut case law that finds “property owners have the right to trim branches or roots of a neighbor that encroaches onto their property up to the property line.”
There is no applicable state or local ordinance regarding such issue, he adds
Swanson notes that he is not licensed in Connecticut. “This is merely informative and not intended as legal advice,” he says.
Trees and property lines can become neighbor issues in Westport. (Photo/Roger Wolfe)
The Levitt Pavilion’s summer series continued last night — the last full day of summer — with Tower of Power.
(Photo/Susan Garment)
Shows continue into the fall. One of the highlights: Westport native Brad Tursi — Old Dominion’s lead guitarist/vocalist — appears on October 12, with his own band. Click here for full Levitt details.
With Halloween near, the Westport Country Playhouse presents “Ghost Stories and Legends” (October 10, 7 p.m.).
The event — part of the Barnstormer Series in the barn (under candlelight!) — is an evening of classic stories of the supernatural, with Broadway’s John Rapson.
He’ll present a special version of his solo show of Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” along with other with other ghostly tales.
Rapson says, “I guarantee laughs, chills and thrills. Just try not to lose your head…”
Tickets are $20. To purchase, and for more information, click here.
All women — and men — are invited to a special event, as part of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Authors Dr. Christine M. Cocchiola — a therapist and expert on coercive control — and divorce coach Amy Polacko will discuss their new book, “Framed: Women in the Family Court Underworld.”
It’s set for October 8 (7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).
“Framed” exposes how domestic abuse victims are treated in the legal system, using stories from women around the world.
The talk will focus on red flags to look for in relationships, what is coercive control, the crisis in family courts, and how to protect oneself.
The event is sponsored by the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force and Rock the Walls, a non-profit offering help to victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
In the aftermath of Westport resident Tim Lewis’ death in July from pancreatic cancer — at 58, just a month shy of his 23rd wedding anniversary — his family and friends have set up a non-profit foundation.
They say: “While Tim’s life was shortened, his purpose and passion were always strong and his desire to help others defined much of his life.
“Tim balanced a demanding career with a tireless devotion to his family. He loved his wife and and kids deeply and actively. Tim was famous for coordinating play dates, soccer schedules, date night, violin and drum lessons, all while ordering fall clothing for the kids (to their chagrin) and making high-stakes work conference calls.
“He was a memory-making mastermind, relentless in his pursuit of family time through neighborhood walks, vacation hikes, and beach dinners. Even when it was just sitting at the kitchen table doing puzzles, being with family was the life experience Tim most valued.
“Our goal is to help other people and families struggling with the particularly challenging diagnosis of pancreatic cancer through research, clinical trials, and support.
On Thursday, the Longshore Ladies Nine Hole Golfers held their annual charity event at Longshore.
The women once again chose the Westport Woman’s Club food closet as their beneficiary.
They collected 4 grocery carts of food donations, and nearly $1,000 in cash.
Golfers’ donations, at the Westport Woman’s Club.
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At another golf event last week, the inaugural “Shank it for Shea” golf event drew a great turnout to Birchwood Country Club.
Significant funds were raised to advance Long QT Syndrome research and improve treatment options for those affected — including Mark and Kira Greenfield’s daughter Shea.
The event builds on 2 previous fundraisers. Both were dance-oriented, and were called “Shake it for Shea.”
The Greenfields are onto something. They do great work — and they do it with smiles. Perhaps the next one may be for skateboarders: “Shred it for Shea.”
For more details on their “Hearts in Harmony” Foundation, click here.
One of the most dangerous intersections in Westport — Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane — just got (hopefully) quite a bit safer.
The town has installed new warning and stop signs in all 4 directions. All flash brightly. The aim is to attract the attention of drivers before they plow onward.
It’s a great start. And a great reminder to pay attention!
You can’t see the flashing stop sign. But it sure stands out. (Hat tip and photo/Carl McNair)
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The weather was perfect. The vibe was cool.
And every seat was taken last night, at the 3 Church Lane restaurants with outdoor dining: Spotted Horse, The Blondinit and Pink Sumo.
Live music added to the fun.
Just another reason to love summer in Westport — and more proof that downtown has its mojo back.
To make sure everyone has what they need, the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force is collecting supplies. They’ll go to residents of the 2 Domestic Violence Crisis Center safe houses that serve our area, and DVCC’s clients.
The Westport Rotary Club and Positive Directions are important partners. The collection begins tomorrow (July 28), and runs through August 4.
Among the new items needed: backpacks, notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, crayons, lunch boxes, 3×3 sticky note pads, 3-ring binders, graphing calculators, and gift cards (Target, Walmart, Amazon, Staples, etc.).
Donations can be left in collection bins at the Westport Police Department (50 Jesup Road) and Positive Directions (90 Post Road West).
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Westporters know Alisyn Camerota as a CNN anchor/ correspondent.
She recently branched into memoir writing. In “Combat Love: A Story of Leaving, Longing and Searching for Home,” the Westport resident explores her teenage years in the 1980s music scenes of the Jersey Shore and New York City, along with her difficult relationship with her mother.
Soon, we’ll see “Combat Love” on film and TV screens. It’s in development by the producers of Broadway musicals like Alanis Morisette’s “Jagged Little Pill” and Green Day’s “American Idiot.” (Hat tip: David Meth)
Alisyn Camerota
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Speaking of writing: Here’s something to write home about: The Westport Writers’ Workshop is 20 years old.
The non-profit celebrates the milestone September 6, with a bash at the Saugatuck Rowing Club.
The event includes dinner, drinks, dancing to the Dylan Connor Trio, a silent auction, and tributes to important people like founder Jessica Bram and former Executive director Valerie Ann Leff.
Tickets are $150, and include an open bar. Click here, then scroll down to purchase.
Funds raised help underwrite WWW’s outreach programs that serve underrepresented populations, like the Bigelow Senior Center, Moms of Children with Disabilities, and STAR. These programs allow students to discover their voices, guided by accomplished faculty members.
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Longshore golfers were surprised yesterday to see a cart, sporting a political message:
It looked like a Parks & Recreation Department vehicle.
But it wasn’t.
Parks & Rec officials said it belonged to a nearby resident, out for a spin.
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Michael Douglas spent his youth in Westport. (He did not graduate from Staples High School; after junior high, he was shipped off to boarding school.)
The veteran film and television actor and producer returns to the area October 22. Stamford’s Avon Theatre will present him with its Lifetime Achievement Award
When Team Velominati sets a goal, they don’t mess around.
On August 3-4, Coastal Bridge founder and Westporter Bill Loftus will ride with the group — many of whom are local residents — across Massachusetts, in his 7th Pan-Mass Challenge, to fund cancer research at Dana-Farber in Boston.
Team Velominati’s goal: $750,000.
This year is particularly exciting. The Pan-Mass Challenge will pass $1 billion in donations over its 44-year history, making it the largest athletic fundraiser in the country.
This year, Loftus is dedicating his ride to his teammate Scott Logie, who is battling cancer.
“Freedom is a Feast” by Alejandro Puyana, “How to Read a Book” by Monica Wood, and “skin & bones” by Renée Watson are the 3 finalists for the 2024 Westport Prize for Literature, The $10,000 is awarded for an original work of fiction that explores issues in contemporary society.
This year’s winner will be announced next month, and honored at The Westport Library on September 21, in conjunction with StoryFest, the annual literary festival.
The recipient will also sit on a StoryFest panel. Confirmed authors for the event include Roxane Gay, Christopher Golden, Joe R. Lansdale, Claire Messud and Peng Shepherd. Click here for the full list.
Submissions for the 2024 Westport Prize for Literature were vetted by nearly 50 volunteer readers. A jury will then select the winner.
From left: Alejandro Puyana, Renée Watson, Monica Wood.
Alice and her baby Apricot are today’s “Westport … Naturally” subjects.
They — along with baby Raisin — live at Wakeman Town Farm. The public can visit (and snuggle) with them. Click here for reservations, and more information.
By a 29-6 margin Tuesday night — and following 2 hours of debate — the Representative Town Meeting turned down a petition by resident John McCarthy.
If passed, the measure would have compelled the RTM moderator to place on the agenda any matter brought to it by 20 electors. Defeat of the measure now allows the moderator discretion in whether or not to bring a petition before the body.
McCarthy told “06880”: “This statement by the RTM invalidates over 150 years of precedent and takes away the right of Westport voters to petition the town government on matters that they find important.
“This is a low point for the RTM and the individual members who voted against making a statement that would have affirmed a right of Westporters which has been assumed to exist for generations.”
RTM moderator Jeff Weiser told “06880”: “Despite a lot of the concern by certain residents during this challenge to the way the RTM has always acted, the RTM, through its impressive volunteer members, will continue to be an extraordinary, transparent, democratic institution that Westport will be proud of. “
Westport’s Department of Human Services and Domestic Violence Task Force honor it by collecting used cell phones and iPads, to benefit the Domestic Violence Crisis Center of Norwalk and Stamford.
The DVCC provides free, confidential services to victims of domestic violence and their children in Westport, Weston and surrounding towns.
Used cell phones or iPads are given to clients to assure their safety, and avoid tracking by their abuser. Devices should be no more than 4 years old, and reset to factory settings.
Donation bins are located at Westport Town Hall and the Senior Center. they’re available weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Other events this month include:
Tomorrow (Friday, October 6, 11 a.m.): A Domestic Violence Month proclamation at the Westport Police Department, 50 Jesup Road.
Wednesday, October 18 (7 p.m., Senior Center): The DVTF hosts a screening and discussion of “The Fire That Took Her.”
Thursday, October 19: Wear purple and get coffee with the Domestic Violence Awareness sleeve at Kneads, Garelick & Herbs, Coffee An’, The Porch and Winfield Street Coffee; then snap a selfie and join the social media campaign with the hashtag #purplethursday, and tag @DVCCCT and @WESTPORTDOMESTICVIOLENCETASKFORCE on Facebook.
For more information on all events, click here or email humansrv@westportct.gov. To get involved with the Domestic Violence Task Force, email jcabana@westportct.gov.
Cell phones can be lifesavers for domestic violence victims.
For 5 days only — tomorrow (Friday) through Tuesday, October 10 — there’s a special sale: 25% off $45 tickets.
The event includes light bites, and music by Band Central. All proceeds benefit CLASP’s mission of providing loving homes and inspirational opportunities for adults with autism and developmental disabilities.
Costumes are optional. For tickets and more information, click here.
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It’s been 18 months since Charlie Capalbo died, a month before his 24th birthday.
But the Fairfield hockey player — and grandson of Westport writer Ina Chadwick — continues to be remembered, and memorialized, every day.
He battled acute myelogenous leukemia for 5 years. He was in remission 3 times, and survived several life-threatening complications.
He maxed out every chemo, radiation, immunotherapy available. A bone marrow transplant from his younger brother Will in 2019 bought him some good time.
He overcame lower extremity paralysis from treatment twice, relearning to walk both times while at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital.
Friends and strangers are raising funds for AML research. They’re nearing the $500,000 mark.
Will is now the men’s lacrosse graduate assistant coach at Jacksonville University. He’s gotten the entire program involved.
Recent beach closures (for swimming only) due to high bacteria counts after heavy rains have residents wondering: How do I know if they’re open?
Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department follows a directive from the Aspetuck Health District to close when rainfall reaches an inch or more within a 24-hour period. The Health District tests the water.
(Parks & Rec notes that the problem has been exacerbated recently by heavy flooding in northern New England. That’s meant a large amount of debris and other pollutants is entering Long Island Sound, from the Connecticut River.
For updated information, Parks & Rec maintains a cancellation line for all activities: 203-341-5074. You can also check the Parks & Rec page on the town website (click here).
“We want to thank all of our customers who helped,” Maria says. “We cannot get over the generosity of everyone! Mason has a long road ahead, and this will help them very much. God bless.”
Every day, town officials help make Westport a better place to live, work and play.
Now we can nominate them for an award.
The 8th annual Connecticut Conference of Municipalities’ Excellence Awards will recognize “innovative projects and individuals that have significantly improved the quality of life for citizens, established partnerships, and built community support.” Anyone can submit a nomination.
Towns and cities are recognized in 3 population categories. There’s also an award for “Innovation in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.”
There are 2 individual honors too. One is for lifetime achievement; the other, for innovation.
For more information, including how to nominate, click here.
The deadline is August 25. For a list of last year’s winners, click here. (Hat tip: Dick Lowenstein)
But the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force is already hard at work. They’re collecting supplies for residents of 2 safe houses.
They need:
New (unused) backpacks
Notebooks
Pens, pencils, highlighters, crayons
New lunchboxes
Graphing calculators
Gift cards (Staples, Target, Walmart, Amazon, etc.).
Donations can be left from now through July 23 in collection bins at the Westport police station lobby (50 Jesup Road), and at ASF Sports & Outdoors (1560 Post Road East).
The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston (and guests) headed to a familiar (to them) spot yesterday: Flushing Meadows, site of the 1964-65 World’s Fair.
As the group passed landmarks like the Unisphere, Hall of Science and pavilions (GM, GE, Bell System and others), they shared memories of experiences there.
The latest in a series of historical walking tours was led by member Warren Jahn.
Y’s Men (and guests) on tour. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)
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Bunny Franco and her son Jimmy have been Westporters for 60 years.
What better place to pose Sunday than this classic spot?
PS: Jimmy is sporting Westport’s iconic 150th-anniversary t-shirt, from 1985. He’s already been here for 23 years.
The Yankee Doodle Fair — the way we know that’s true — is almost all set up.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
The annual fundraiser for (and at) the Westport Woman’s Club on Imperial Avenue opens Thursday, at 6 p.m. It continues Friday night, and throughout the weekend.
Neil Gaiman, author of “American Gods,” “Coraline” and “The Sandman,” is coming to Westport.
He’s the keynote speaker at StoryFest 2023. The 6th edition of StoryFest, the Westport Library’s annual celebration of reading, writing, ideas and community, will be held October 20-22.
Gaiman headlines opening night. The weekend includes panel discussions and other events, with authors Angie Kim, Gabino Iglesias, Stephen Graham Jones, Caroline Kepnes, Eric LaRocca, Josh Malerman and more.
Free registration for the keynote address begins June 20. The complete lineup and schedule for StoryFest 2023 will be announced this summer.
The largest literary festival in Connecticut and one of the biggest in New England, StoryFest drew more than 800 participants and 40 authors to the Library last year,
This year’s StoryFest keynote doubles as the Fall 2023 Malloy Lecture in the Arts,. The spring edition featured artist and former Psychedelic Furs frontman Richard Butler.
The Malloy Lecture in the Arts, delivered free to the public since 2002 thanks to the generosity of Westport artist Susan Malloy, highlight individuals who have had significant cultural influence and whose work has enhanced the understanding and appreciation of the arts.
Neil Gaiman
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The Saugatuck Rowing Club Junior Rowing program showed well last Sunday, at the USRowing Youth Nationals in Sarasota, Florida.
The largest Youth Nationals ever drew over 4,000 athletes from 225 clubs and schools. Saugatuck Rowing Club sent 12 boats.
The women’s U17 4+ A boat, including Clementine Kirt, Carolina Proctor and Alice Frascella of Wesptort, and Hannah Makmale of Weston), helped SRC defend its championships for the third year in a row.
In a thrilling finish, the Saugatuck 4+ B boat including Rylie Cordella and Olivia Saw of Westport, and Anne Studnicky of Weston, took silver, giving the club the top 2 spots.
Earning bronze: the men’s U17 4+ boat, with Westley Dick and Tommy Wright of Westport, and Daniel Lee and Davis Evans of Weston), along with the men’s U16 8+ boat, with Westporters Elena Nasar, Daniel Arava, Jack Mello, Liam Wiegand and Alex Proctor (Westport).
Saugatuck Rowing Club’s U-17 4+A boat national champions (from left): Coach Cody Silvester, Alice Frascella, Carolina Proctor, Madeline Casano, Clementine Kirt, Hannah Makmale.
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Congratulations too to Derek Amlicke.
The Staples High School pole vaulter won the New England championship, clearing 14′ 3″ in Bangor, Maine.
Earlier this year, he set a new Staples record: 15′ 2″.
On July 2, State Representative Dominique Johnson will fiddle while while Westport celebrates.
The legislator — whose 143rd district includes part of our town — brings her bluegrass instrument to First Folk Sunday (VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, 12:30 p.m.).
Johnson began playing violin at 2 years old in a Suzuki program. She discovered bluegrass through her grandfather’s family in Kentucky.
First Folk Sunday is a popular new folk series featuring Suzanne Sheridan (vocals and guitar), Bob Cooper (keyboards). and guest artists.
There is a $10 music charge. Brunch, plus a make-it-yourself Bloody Mary bar and Mimosas are extra.
Last week, members of the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force and the student-led Staples High School Sexual Assault Awareness and Self Defense Club attended a private female self-defense training session at Fit Club Jiu-Jitsu in Fairfield.
The group practiced defensive tactics and learned practical skills, including situational awareness and how to avid potentially risky situations.
Instruction came from Fit Club owner/coach Joe Oppedisano, Staff Corporal Michael Ruttenber (Westport Police Department) Rob Curcio (Weston Police Department) and Detective Beth Leetch (Fairfield Police).
Trainers and trainees.
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Westport Sunrise Rotary and Westport Country Playhouse Staff teamed up to help visitors at the SCP’s recent open house have fun playing”Toss the
Duck into the Bucket.”
It was a great promotion for Sunrise Rotary’s Great Duck Race (June 24, Jesup Green). Click here for details.
Promoting the Great Duck Race, at the Playhouse. From left: Mike Hibbard (duck), Giovanni Orozlo, Joe Watson, Chris Conte, Erin Reynolds. (Photo/Ashley Sweet)
Cedar waxwings are today’s “Westport .. Naturally” feature.
They’re also, as Westport Community Gardens director/photographer extraordinaire Lou Weinberg explains, “the bandits of the bird world. With their black masks and paintbrush tails, these beauties travel in flocks and love the serviceberry tree.”
He adds: “If you love birds, plant serviceberry and other native trees, shrubs, wildflowers and grasses. Nature wins!”
Westport’s 17th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration next month will be one of its most memorable.
Author/creative artist/filmmaker/playwright/multi-dimensional performance artist Junauda Petrus will be the special guest here.
Petrus’ work spotlights “Black wildness, laughter, futurism, ancestral healing, sweetness, spectacle and shimmer.” Her debut novel, “The Stars and the Blackness Between Them,” received the 2020 Coretta Scott King Book Award. She is writing a screenplay adaptation of the book.
Petrus’ visit to Westport will focus on “reimagining community diversity, engagement, and civility.”
On Friday, January 13 she will present at area schools. On Saturday, January 14 Petrus will visit the Westport Library for an experiential workshop with local artists (click here for more information), followed by a panel discussion with them (click here to register).
The 3-day celebration culminates on Sunday, January 15 with her 3 p.m. keynote address at the Westport Country Playhouse. Copies of her book will be available for purchase, with Petrus signing copies after her talk. The program is free with registration (click here), and includes a dance performance by the Regional Center for the Arts.
The Martin Luther King Jr. celebration began in 2006, coordinated by the Westport/Weston Interfaith Council and Westport/Weston Interfaith Clergy. Since 2016 it has been hosted by those 2 organizations, the Westport Library, Westport Country Playhouse, and TEAM Westport.
Tuesday night was magical at Wakeman Town Farm. 120 members of Club 203 gathered for their first-ever holiday party.
The organization offers great social opportunities for adults with disabilities. They’re uplifted by strong community support.
For this week’s festivities, the tent was sponsored by the Riverside Realty Group. Motivators came from TAP Strength. The art project in Tim’s Kitchen was hosted by MoCA.
The hot cocoa bar and snacks were Gold’s, Rye Ridge Deli, The Porch @ Christie’s, Fresh Market and Silverman Farms. The event space came courtesy of Wakeman Town Farm.
A few of the Club 203 party-goers at Wakeman Town Farm. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)
For the second year in a row, all 22 Kings Highway Elementary School classes participated in the Connecticut Education Foundation’s Holiday Bear program.
Each class received information about a child in our area who might not receive gifts for the holidays. Families shopped for items on the youngsters’ holiday wish lists. They ranged from toys and crafts to necessities like coats, hats, gloves and pajamas.
Students worked with their teachers and parent volunteers to wrap each gift. ,
In addition, KHS teachers banded together to sponsor an additional child on their own.
Earlier today, CEF picked up all 23 Holiday Bear duffle bags, bursting with wrapped gifts from teachers, students and staff.
Congratulations to the Kings Highway Elementary School community. That’s the holiday spirit!
Kings Highway students, with a few of the 23 Holiday Bear duffel bags stuffed with gifts. (Photo courtesy of KHS PTA)
The Westport Domestic Violence Task Force had its own successful holiday drive.
For the past week, they collected gift cards, to benefit the Domestic Violence Crisis Center safehouse and community clients.
Residents donated $3,250 in cards to department specialty, and grocery stores. Survivors purchase what they most need or want for their families this season.
This can be a dark time for victims of domestic violence. The WDVTF thanks all who help make it a bit brighter.
In 2015, the Westport Weston Family YMCA received a large and unexpected gift from the estate of Ruth Bedford.
The granddaughter of Edward T. Bedford — who founded the Y — she had died the previous year, at 99. The board of trustees established the Ruth Bedford Social Responsibility Fund. Its endowment supports grants to organizations that provide direct or supplemental educational opportunities in Fairfield County.
This week, the Y honored the 31 recipients for 2022.
Representatives from each group described how their grants would be spent. For example:
The Carver Foundation of Norwalk serves 2,500 K-12 students. Funds will towards supporting its middle school program.
Homes with Hope will help housing insecure people get back on their feet.
Mercy Learning Center of Bridgeport will use the grant for its Early Childhood Education program.
New Beginnings Family Academy serves Bridgeport’s most vulnerable children. The donation will help “level the playing field.”
Wakemen Memorial Association (Boys & Girls Club) sponsors after-school and summer camp programs. They’re also building a second location in Bridgeport,
CEOs Marcie Berson (Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestra) and Novelette Peterkin (Carver Foundation) share a table at the Westport Y’s Ruth Bedford Social Responsibility Fund ceremony.
Staples High School’s December Students of the Month are seniors Zoe Webster and Mia Vindiola; junior Andrew Cerrito; sophomores Ethen Perry and Kensley Laguerre, and freshmen Benjamin Barger and Annabelle Katz.
The award recognizes students who “help make Staples High School a welcoming place for their peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together, making it the special place that it is.”
Students of the Month are nominated by their teachers, who are asked to think of “all-around good citizens” of the school.
Staples High School’s December Students of the Month. From left: Benjamin Barger, Zoe Webster, Annabelle Katz, Kensley Laguerre, Andrew Cerrito, Ethen Perry. Absent: Mia Vindiola.
Another accident at the crash-prone Cross Highway/Bayberry Lane intersection sent one person to the hospital just before noon on Monday.
The collision — which closed Bayberry for a while — began when a driver headed toward Fairfield on Cross Highway ran the stop sign. The vehicle slammed into a car headed south on Bayberry. That automobile then hit the front of a car stopped at the northbound Bayberry stop sign.
The motorist who went through the stop sign was treated by EMS and transported to Norwalk Hospital for minor injuries.
The 3-car accident at the intersection of Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)
Back in 2020, the Hackett family wanted to do something meaningful to give back to those in need.
All avid athletes, they chose a project that connects with them, and their Westport community. (It also helps clear out clutter.)
Working with Leveling the Playing Field — a non-profit organization helps underprivileged youngsters who need sports equipment — they’ll collect new and gently used sports and playground equipment.
They’ll be at the Granola Bar this Saturday and Sunday (December 10 and 11), from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Hackett family, with just a few of their many donations.
You must have stuff lying around: cleats, field hockey sticks, lacrosse equipment, bats, ice hockey skates, footballs, softball gloves, soccer shin guards, etc. Click here for a full list of items — you’ll be amazed at what you forgot you have.
So clean out your garages, sheds and basements. It’s time to level the playing field for everyone!
For more information about this amazing organization, click below:
Gift cards allow survivors the dignity to purchase what they most need or want for their families. Suggested retailers include Stop & Shop, ShopRite, Amazon, Target and Walmart.
Gift cards can be left with the dispatch center in the lobby of the Westport Police Department (50 Jesup Road), between now and December 13.
Staples High School Class of 2020 graduate Terry Brannigan has many talents.
He’s double majoring in physics and music at Wesleyan University. He’s minoring in IDEAS (Integrated Design, Engineering and Applied Science). He’s a varsity wrestler.
And now — as wrestling season is just ramping up — he’s released a new song.
“Sunshine Serenade” is a blend of musical styles, from metal to R&B. Terry has been working on it — evolving and growing — the song for years.
“It finally bloomed into this rollercoaster that it is now,” he says.
Click here to stream “Sunshine Serenade,” on your favorite platform.
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Westport is not immune. In fiscal year 2025 the Domestic Violence Crisis Center — a counseling and advocacy organization serving victims and their children in lower Fairfield County — conducted 23 “lethality assessments.” 26% were identified as high danger, prompting immediate intervention by DVCC and law enforcement.
Westport Police Captain Jill Cabana — who heads our town’s Domestic Violence Task Force — has sat on DVCC’s board.
