Tag Archives: Westport Emergency Medical Services

Roundup: Police Drug Take Back Day, Jay Norris AI Honor, Community Theatre Play …

Posted on April 11, 2026 | 1 comment

Got drugs you no longer need (or want)? Or those that have expired?

On Saturday, April 25 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Senior Center) the Westport Police Department takes part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

Residents can bring tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs to the Senior Center. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container.

Do not bring syringes, sharps and illicit drugs. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.

Drop-offs are free, and anonymous.

Westport Police also offer a year-round collection bin in the lobby of the headquarters building on Jesup Road. There is a supply of medication disposal bags in the lobby, to dispose of liquid and pill medications in your regular garbage.

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Congratulations to Jay Norris!

The founder and CEO of Westport-based ThoughtPartnr has just been named to MSN’s “Top 10 AI Leaders to Follow” list.

His writeup calls Norris “a serial entrepreneur, author and strategic advisor known for helping leaders scale businesses and influence markets through innovation, technology and high-performance leadership.

“As an AI strategist, he is focused n helping small and medium-sized businesses succeed in the age of artificial intelligence.

Norris chairs the Technology and Innovation Council of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.

But he’s well-known locally too.

A co-founder of StartUp Westport, board member of several organizations, and founder of Westport 10, Norris’ ThoughtPartnr firm helped develop our “06880” widget.

Available at the top right of every 06880.org page (and through the far-left bottom at the bottom of our “06880” app), it enables users to do a deep dive into 17 years of our blog’s content. It’s more than a search engine — it’s a way to use AI in a hyper-local way.

Helping small and medium-sized businesses is one of Norris’ passions.

And it’s why MSN celebrates him, as a Top 10 AI leader nationally. Click here for the full writeup.

Jay Norris

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“The Savannah Sipping Society” — Westport Community Theatre’s 4th production of the season — opened last night.

The warm, witty comedy about friendship, second chances and the occasional happy hour continues weekends through April 26.

Co-written by Jamie Wooten (“Designing Women,” “The Golden Girls”), it
stars Dandy Barrett, Heather Delude, Gillian Holt and Ellen Krinick Porto.

Performances are Fridays and Saturdays (7:30 p.m.), and Sundays (2 p.m.)., at the WCT in the lower level of Town Hall. A special Thursday show is set for April 16 (7:30 p.m.).

Click here for tickets, or call 203-227-1983. Questions? Email info@westportcommunitytheatre.com.

From left: Gillian Holt, Heather Delude, Dandy Barrett, Ellen Krinick Porto.

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Double the Gershwin fun!

Identical twins, Juilliard graduates and clarinet and saxophone virtuosos Peter and Will Anderson (and Companions) perform American songbook standards by George Gershwin at Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.

The concert is April 25 (5 p.m.). Tickets are available online, or at the door.

Anderson brothers, and friend. Can you tell which are the twins?

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Speaking of entertainment: Lachat Town Farm — Weston’s multi-purpose entertainment and educational venue — has announced its 2026 Music in the Meadow lineup.

There’s something for everyone.

The season kicks off June 13 with indie rock standouts Morningside — recently named one of Connecticut’s Top 12 Up‑and‑Coming Bands — with a supporting set from Charlotte Roth.

On July 11 they welcome Quinn Sullivan. The Massachusetts guitar star has shared the stage with Buddy Guy and BB King.

August 15 brings Black Rock indie‑folk favorites The Moonrise Cartel. Brian Dolzani opens, featuring the music of Neil Young.

Stella Blue’s Band closes the season September 19, with Grateful Dead tunes.

Every show features food trucks, and a “barn bar.” Click here for tickets, and more information. 

Music at the Meadow.

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Next Friday (April 17, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.), an emergency preparedness drill will take place at Bedford Middle School.

It’s during April recess, when schools are closed. The public may notice emergency vehicles and personnel — but it is only a drill. It is not open to the public.

This drill, in partnership with regional and state agencies, is part of an effort to test preparedness plans and strengthen collaboration among local and regional partners, in response to a public health emergency scenario.

Participating agencies include the Westport Police Department and Fire Departments, Westport Emergency Medical Services, the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and the state Department of Public Health.

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It never gets old.

Once again, Ken Bernhard, Ted Freedman ad Rick Jaffe are asking Westporters to check their closets, and donate new or slightly worn shoes to Soles4Souls.

Collection boxes are in place at Town Hall and the Senior Center. Donations can be made through the first week of May.

Soles4Souls keeps shoes out of landfills, provides footwear for people in need, and creates micro-business opportunities in places of poverty.

Since 2006, the organization has salvaged over nearly 100 million pairs of shoes. They’ve been distributed in 129 countries, and all 50 states.

Westport does its part. Ken, Ted and Rich have collected over 4,000 pairs of shoes, helping people around the world who lack access to proper footwear.

Ken Bernhard and friend, with the Soles4Souls collection box at Town Hall.

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Bees are back!

And even though it looks like this guy is still wearing a winter coat, today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is one more sign that spring is on its way.

Some day.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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And finally … in honor of the shoe collection drive, through the organization Soles4Souls (item above):

(Hold on! Don’t leave yet! If you enjoy these daily Roundups — or any other “06880” feature — please click here. Your tax-deductible contribution supports our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Local business, Police, technology

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Unsung Heroes #390

Posted on July 9, 2025 | 4 comments

We’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: Westport’s fireworks are the best party of the year.

But — like any party — it doesn’t happen without tons of work.

Planning takes months. The day of the event is long, hard and very stressful.

And even when the party is over, the clean-up work continues.

Our annual celebration seems to run like clockwork. This year’s was especially flawless. (A record may have been set: only 2 lost children.)

So how did it happen?

A lot of groups worked a lot of hours. With a lot of collaboration.

Thanks go to:

Parks & Recreation Department. They’re the front lines — and the back room (and everything and everywhere in between). The fireworks are an all-hands-on-deck event, and everyone from director Erik Barbieri (overseeing his first one), deputies Rick Giunta and Carm Roda (definitely not their first rodeos), down to the lifeguards and newest summer employees, pitched in.

From parking assistance and emptying trash all day long, to reuniting those 2 lost kids with their parents, Parks & Rec did it all. Special thanks to the clean-up crews, who went to work the moment the first revelers left after the last firework, leaving behind mammoth piles of chairs, tables, towels, flip-flops, food and other garbage.

By dawn the next morning, it was all gone. A kerfuffle ensued on Westport Front Porch, when a Westporter wondered why the clean-up had been so efficient that when she went back the next day to retrieve her stuff, it was gone. I’m paraphrasing here, but you get the idea. No good dead — or pristine beach — goes unpunished.

An early trash pick-up, long before the big crowds arrive. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Police Department. This was Dave Farrell’s first fireworks as chief, and his men and women nailed it. They too were everwhere — in cars, on bicycles, on foot and on the water — with constant smiles, and an eagerness to help. They were assisted by officers from other towns. And, it seems safe to say, they returned the favor on other days, for those colleagues’ pyrotechnics.

Fire Department. You never know what might happen, at an event that draws 10,000 people. But the presence of so many firefighters — with all their equipment — was reassuring to all. They were not called on for anything major, so they had plenty of time to offer little kids up-close look at their gleaming trucks, and toots on the (very) loud sirens.

Emergency Medical Services. Our paid and volunteer staffs were all over the place too. They are sometimes overlooked — particularly on a day that was as incident-free as possible — but we would be nowhere without them (and their ambulances, parked strategically and ready for everything).

First responders, smiling but ready if needed. (Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

Westport PAL. They’re the beneficiaries of the parking permits. The money they raise helps fund sports and scholarship programs that impact thousands of youngsters. But PAL volunteers work hard, before and during the fireworks, to earn their donations. Congratulations to PAL president Corporal Craig Bergamo, and his crew, for their part in the party.

Melissa and Doug Bernstein. They’ve sold their toy company. But as devoted Westporters, they continue to pay for the show — out of their own, personal pockets. If there’s a better way to show your love for this town, I’d like to hear it.

Thanks to all I’ve mentioned (and I sure hope I haven’t missed anyone).

The 2025 fireworks are now now just a memory. But we would not have that memory — or the smiles on our faces — without you.

Doug and Melissa Bernstein. (Photo/Dan Woog)

(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)

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Posted in Beach, Police, Unsung Heroes, Westport life

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“06880” Podcast: Marc Hartog

Posted on June 30, 2025 | 6 comments

Marc Hartog is deputy director of Westport Emergency Medical Services.

They’re one of our town’s most important — and often unrecognized — organizations.

You hope you never meet them. But when you do, they are there for you — 24/7/365.

The other day, when Marc joined me on our “06880” podcast, I learned some of what they do — and how, and why.

Much of it was eye-opening. All of it is fascinating.

Click here or belowm to learn for yourself.

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Roundup: Staples Sports, Springsteen, Substances, …

Posted on February 27, 2025 | 3 comments

It took 62 years. But the Staples High School boys basketball team scored another FCIAC championship.

The Wreckers won the league title last night, pulling away at the end. Seeded #2, they knocked off top-ranked Ridgefield 68-58, before a raucous Fairfield University crowd.

It was the second victory for Staples in 6 days over the Tigers. Last week, on the road, the Westporters denied Ridgefield’s bid for an undefeated FCIAC record, on the last day of the regular season.

It was also the first FCIAC crown, in 3 straight trips to the finals.

Adam Udell — named MVP of the title contest — led the victors with 24 points. Fourteen came in the crucial 4th quarter. Matty Corrigan added 19 more.

Next up: the state tournament. The boys — seeded 4th in the 16-team Division I — host their first game on Tuesday (March 4, 6:30 p.m.). They face #13 Kolbe Cathedral.

The girls basketball team begin their state title quest too, away.

Adam Udell heads to the basket. (Photo/David G. Whitham for The Ruden Report

Wearing championship medals, Wreckers celebrate their first FCIAC title in 62 years. (Photo courtesy of Staples boys basketball)

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Bruce Springsteen is coming to VersoFest!

Well, not exactly.

But pretty close.

On Saturday, April 5 (1 p.m.), a free panel discussion on the 50th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” features an all-star cast of The Boss’s collaborators and experts.

They include Mike Appel, Springsteen’s first manager and co-producer of “Born to Run”; former Columbia Records promotions director Michael Pillot, who spearheaded the album’s promotion, plus music historians Robert Santelli and Kenneth Womack.

The panel will be hosted by author and pop culture historian Arlen Schumer. In 1978 he was art director of Thunder Road, the first magazine devoted to Springsteen’s life and music.

Co-host Dick Wingate is a former music industry executive who managed the production of Springsteen’s “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” and many other influential albums.

VersoFest highlights also include a conversation between Patti Smith and Westport journalist/rock memoirist Alisyn Camerota; a concert with the Wallflowers; a chat with hardcore punk legend Henry Rollins and Nabil Ayers, president of the record label Beggars Group; interactive art exhibits; a graffiti workshop led by visionary artist 5iveFingaz, and a weekend family kickoff celebration.

Sunday (April 6) caps off the weekend with a VersoFest Oral History Podcast live recording with David Letterman musical director Paul Shaffer, and “Saturday Night Live” tour de force Christine Ohlman.

Click here for the full VersoFest schedule, plus tickets and more information.

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Tuesday’s charrette at the Senior Center was an early step in discussions of  possible construction of a combined Police/Fire/Emergency Medical Services facility. (Click here to read yesterday’s “06880” story on that meeting.)

Town officials noted the scarcity of available land for the approximately 10 acres needed for the project. The best site, they said, is at the current I-95 Exit 18 commuter parking lot.

One of the posters displayed at the event showed locations of current police and fire stations, schools, and other town-owned property.

Click below to see. Red dots indicate current fire and police facilities; green dots show public schools, and yellow shapes indicate large town-owned properties.

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This is not your kid’s school “show and tell.”

The Westport Prevention Coalition invites parents to a special “hands-on” meeting March 6 (12:30 p.m., Town Hall Room 201).

The topic is “Today’s Emerging Substances & Our Youth.”

Attendees can “browse through today’s substances,” learn about new products being marketed, hear about the risks of gaming and gambling, and pick up free parenting handbooks and resources.

Edibles are an ever-changing part of the cannabis market.

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A reader concerned about “the usurpation of commuter parking spaces at the Westport train station by Avis car rental” writes:  “While they have specially reserved spaces, they typically take another 10-15 commuter spots with impunity and without penalty.

“This was fine during COVID. But now that ridership is increasing, especially with the implementation of the congestion tax, commuters need all our convenient spots — particularly at 6 a.m., on cold or rainy days.”

“06880” reached out to the Westport Police Department, which oversees parking at the town’s 2 train stations.

Deputy Chief David Farrell says, “Avis rents 20 designated spaces at the Saugatuck station – and they pay the daily fee for each. If they utilize other spaces, they receive $25 tickets per vehicle. Now that more people are using Metro-North, strict enforcement is underway.”


Avis cars in non-designated train station spots, earlier this month.

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On Sunday, 150 people walked from the Westport Country Playhouse to the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.

There they placed orange balloons, in memory of the 2 “flame-haired” little boys murdered by Hamas, after being kidnapped on October 7, 2023.

On Tuesday night, co-organizer Jennifer Wolff and her husband went downtown, to remove the deflating balloons.

Two had fallen into the Saugatuck River — in the shape of a heart.

“It felt like an appropriate sendoff,” Jennifer says.

“I hope whomever this balloon heart passes thinks of the Bibas boys, who were put to rest that day with their mama.”

(Photo/Jennifer Wolff)

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The Planning & Zoning Commission took a field trip Tuesday to Baron’s South.

Their tour of the 22-acre property included Golden Shadows, the 1950s-era “mansion” owned by Baron Walter Langer von Langendorff, the perfume mogul. It, and adjacent buildings, are being considered for affordable housing.

Former Representative Town Meeting member Harris Falk took up the invitation to join the tour. He dressed in his trademark colorful outfit.

Inside the house, P&Z member Neil Cohn noticed that Falk’s get-up blended in almost perfectly with the Baron’s wallpaper.

Harris Falk, inside the Baron’s mansion. (Photo/Neil Cohn)

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One more special Westport arts figure has been added to next Thursday’s relaunch of the Susan Malloy Celebration of the Arts: Gina Rattan.

The 2004 Staples graduate — a Broadway director and creative consultant — joins artist Miggs Burroughs, arts leader Melody James, and singer/actor Melissa Newman for the March 6 (7 p.m.) evening of conversation and storytelling. All are Westport residents.

Weston actor James Naughton will moderate the panel discussion, focusing on how Westport has become a magnet for artists, performers and creatives for decades; how the town’s artistic spirit has evolved, and continues to thrive in new and exciting ways; and the role of the next generation in carrying forward Westport’s rich cultural heritage.

Click here for more information.

Gina Rattan

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Speaking of the Library: Club203 sure knows how to have fun.

Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities celebrates March with a special karaoke event.

The Westport Library hosts the sing-out on March 18 (6:30 to 8 p.m.).

Attendees can request their favorite songs now. For details and registration, click here.

Club 203, at last year’s Westport Library event.

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Jerry Kuyper captured — with a camera, from a safe distance — this Tuesday night visitor on Rayfield Road, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

“The bluestone walkway is just under 2 feet wide, for scale,” he says.

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … as soon as you saw the story on the Bruce Springsteen event at VersoFest (above), you knew what today’s featured song would be, right?

After 50 years, it’s still one of the great rock songs of all time.

(There’s no place left to hide. Please click here to support your hyper-local, 24/7/365, Boss-loving blog. Whether you were born to run, or have always stayed in the 06880, we thank you.)

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Posted in Library, Police, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Charrette Postponed, Library Delayed, Eversource Property …

Posted on February 6, 2025 | 2 comments

Tonight’s charrette for the proposed Westport public safety complex has been postponed, due to the weather forecast.

The new date is February 25 (7 to 9 p.m., Westport Senior Center).

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In addition, the Westport Library will delay its opening today until 2 p.m. — unless conditions warrant a closing.

Click on the Library’s website for updates.

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In yesterday’s story about the 2024 Grand List, “06880” included a list of Westport’s top 10 taxpayers.

As it always does, Connecticut Light & Power (aka Eversource) was in first place.

We noted that much of their property consists of utility poles.

It does. But that’s not the full story.

Chris Swan — Eversource’s now retired director of transmission siting (and 1967 Staples High School graduate) — says that the largest item in their property portfolio is the double set of underground 345,000-volt transmission cables, installed in 2009.

They run from the Fairfield border, mostly  under the Post Road, traversing town into Norwalk across from Whole Foods, en route from Bridgeport to the Norwalk substation at the junction of Routes 7 and 123.

Eversource also owns the 4 substations in town. The newest (the Sherwood Substation) was built on New Creek Road adjacent to the Greens Farms train station in 2009.

Chris adds: “Most of the company’s facilities are overhead poles and wires. But the biggest taxable valuation is in the underground transmission lines and substations.”

Eversource’s Main Street substation, behind Coffee An’.

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Flood mitigation is an issue of importance to nearly every Westporter.

We can always learn more about it.

This month, the Western Connecticut Council of Governments (WestCOG) hosts two Flood Mitigation Assistance information sessions.

The first is in person: February 11 (6 to 8 p.m., Stamford Government Center, 888 Washington Boulevard; click here to register.

The second is virtual (February 27, 6 to 8 p.m.; click here for the Zoom link; click here to register).

Questions? Email jreelick@westcog.org.

Floods like these are becoming more prevalent. (Photo/Geralyn Rella Breig)

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“Native Gardens” — the Westport Country Playhouse comedy that runs February 18 to March 8 — is about fences and neighbors.

In the spirit of community-building, several special events are planned. They include:

Taste of Tuesday (February 18, 6 p.m.): Reception pairing food from Harvest Restaurant,plus wine. Exclusive for “Taste of Tuesday” season ticket holders. Click here for information.

Together at the Table (February 19, 5:30 p.m.): For $15, a family or group* enjoys a communal pizza dinner and casual conversation before the 7 p.m. show. Call 203-227-4177 for reservations.

 Pride Night (February 20, 6 p.m.): Pre-show cocktail party for the LGBTQ+ community and friends, including a limited open bar and appetizers from Gruel Britannia. Use code GARDENSPRIDE online or call 203-227-4177 for reservations.

Opening Night Post-Show Reception (February 22): Celebrate with the cast, crew and creative team.

Sunday Symposium (after the February 23 3 p.m. show): No ticket necessary  — open to all.
Stay tuned for an update on the speakers! No ticket necessary — open to all.

Open Caption (March 2, 3 p.m.): Deaf and hard of hearing audiences enjoy the performance while watching a digital screen with actors’ dialogue.

Backstage Pass (after the March 5 2 p.m. performance): Learn how the technical staff brought “Native Gardens” to life. No ticket necessary — open to all.

Thursday Talkback )after the March 6 7 p.m. performance: Q&A with cast members. No ticket necessary — open to all.

For more information on “Native Gardens,” click here.

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Youngsters interested in sailing — and parents who want their kids to learn – are invited to a “Junior Sailing Bagel Bash” (March 1, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Cedar Point Yacht Club).

No experience is necessary. The Cedar Point program is open to all junior sailors — members and non-members, beginners to experienced.

Questions? Email emelnichok@gmail.com.

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Speaking of kids: Long QT Syndrome — a potentially life-threatening heart condition — affects 1 in 2,000 children. Early detection can help prevent serious complications.

Connecticut Children’s and Hearts in Harmony are sponsoring free EKG screenings this Saturday (February 8, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Westport Specialty Care Center, 191 Post Road West).

Children with abnormal EKG results will receive expedited follow-up appointments with Connecticut Children’s cardiologists.

The event includes kid-friendly activities, a fashion show, food and more.

For more information, contact Dr. Robyn Matloff at 917-439-8941.

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Attention, Westport Library e-book and audiobook users: With a transition from CloudLibrary to Libby, patrons can access more digital titles than ever.

The transition takes place March 18. CloudLibrary. The last date for holds to be placed through CloudLibrary is February 15. (See below for important dates and FAQs.)

The Library will offer online and in-person tutorials from March 18 to March 21 (3 to 4 p.m), to help users with the transition. An “Anyone Can Use” class focused on the Libby app is set for the Library on March 19 (11 a.m. to noon).

For more information, click here.

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The Westport Board of Education Policy Committee’s next meeting is February 12 (9 a.m., Town Hall Room 201A).

Discussion items include:

  • Second reading of possible revisions to the suicide prevention and intervention policy.
  • First reading of possible revisions to existing policies involving the Americans with Disabilities Act, non-discrimination, and sex-based discrimination and harassment.
  • First reading of a possiible new policy on transportation.
  • Discussion of a policy on survey of students/student privacy.

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Westport police made no custodial arrests between January 29 and February 5.

Police issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 8 citations
  • Speeding: 6
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehcile: 3
  • Failure to renew registrations: 3
  • Texting while driving: 2
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 2
  • Failure to obe traffic control signals: 2
  • Reckless driving: 1
  • Failure to yield to pedestrian: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension:
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1

Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks. Even those pedestrians (and crosswalks) that are less visible.

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Longtime Westporter and noted writer Barry Tarshis died peacefully at home Tuesday, with his family by his side. He was 86.

His obituary says, “He endured 2 years of brutal health challenges by drawing on a bottomless wellspring of optimism, charm, kindness, generosity, and a weak spot for mediocre jokes. Five days before he died, confined to his bed and afflicted with late-stage Alzheimer’s disease, he was asked by his hospice nurse if he was comfortable. ‘I make a decent living,’ he replied.”

He grew up in Pittsburgh. His father Max was a musician who instilled in Barry a lifelong love of music. Even into his final months, Barry retained his ability to play Bill Evans on the piano, sing along with Pavarotti, and harmonize with Elton John and Jim Croce.

Barry overcame his childhood shyness to star in his high school production of “Guys and Dolls,” play basketball, and capture the heart of his future wife, Karen Ross, who he began dating at the age of 15.

After leaving University of Pittsburgh 1 credit short of graduation, Barry traveled across Europe on a motorbike, appeared as an extra in “La Dolce Vita,” lived on an Israeli kibbutz, and moved into a Greenwich Village hovel to embark on a career as a writer.

After marrying Karen and serving in the U.S. Army in New Mexico, he settled into a 30-plus year career as a freelance author. He wrote a dozen books and hundreds of articles for the New York Times, Playbill, Playboy, Town & Country, and Tennis, among other publications.

Herallied with Chris Evert, walked on hot coals with Tony Robbins, traveled to India, Russia, Colombia and Micronesia, and interviewed a mystic who specialized in casting love spells.

He taught writing, led communications seminars for business leaders, and created the grammar and writing website Communications Fitness.

His family said, “The shaping forces of Barry’s career were an eagerness to learn and his genuine curiosity about and respect for all kinds of people — from tennis champions to the students who took his writing classes at public schools in the South Bronx. He brought these same qualities into his most prized creative endeavor, his family.

“While most fathers dream of their children achieving fame and fortune, Barry’s oft-stated parenting goal for Lauren and Andrew was to ‘raise children he would want to hang out with when they were older.’ They wanted to hang out with him, as often as possible.

“Well into his last weeks, he woke up each day with a renewed sense of life’s possibilities, deep gratitude, and an eagerness to uplift his family, his friends, and anyone lucky enough to cross his path.”

Barry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Karen; children Lauren (David Dreyfuss) and Andrew; grandchildren Leo Dreyfuss (Rebecca Goldman), Jeremy Dreyfuss (Shira), Dylan and Valerie Dreyfuss; Lily, Evi, and Ruby Tarshis, and his sister Carole Cohen.

A private celebration-of-life is planned. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Foundation, or tell someone a mediocre joke.

Barry Tarshis

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Right after Monday’s snowfall, Pam Kesselman captured these Soundview Drive runners, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Snow, sleet and rain is predicted today.

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming flood mitigation workshops (story above):

(“06880” would love to be flooded with contributions. But even a trickle helps. Please click here to join the torrent. Or be the first. Thank you!

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Posted in Children, Education, Environment, Library, Obituaries, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Farmers’ Market, First Responders’ Facility, Gang Of Four …

Posted on February 5, 2025 | 5 comments

With snow predicted tomorrow (Thursday), the Westport Farmers’ Market has canceled this week’s session.

“This decision is incredibly difficult to make,” director Lori Cochran says. “We understand the negative impact it has on our vendors and yoru kitchens.

“Be we need to put the safety of our vendors and you foremost.”

Operation Warm Hug — the Farmers’ Market coat drive — will take place next Thursday (February 13).

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Still on: tomorrow’s open house charrette, to view and discuss plans for Westport’s proposed public safety complex (Thursday, February 6; 7 p.m., Senior Center).

The project — involving the Police and Fire Departments, and Emergency Medical Services — is in the conceptual and feasibility stage.

An architectural presentation will be followed by discussions and feedback opportunities.

For more information, click here.

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Ever wished you could snag an invite to Craig Melvin and Lindsay Czarniak’s house?

I’ve never gotten one. But thanks to the New York Times, I — and anyone else on the planet with internet — can check out a few highlights.

“At Home with Craig Melvin” shows a few rooms. The new NBC “Today” host reveals how the family landed in Westport (it was midway between New York and Bristol, Connecticut, where she works for ESPN), and near a train station.

He talks about their strong relationship with the town (youth sports coaching, PTA, etc.).

And he shows off his grandmother’s beloved chair, and his own candle-making equipment.

Click here for a tour of Craig and Lindsay’s home. (Hat tip: Bill Dedman)

Craig Melvin’s chair, vinyl and more. (Photo/Tony Cenicola for The New York Times)

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Club203 celebrated Valentine’s Day early last night.

With a bit of mini-golf.

At their monthly party — hosted by MoCA CT — members made their own golf visors, played a few rounds, enjoyed sweet treats, and mixed and mingled at high-top tables. was treated to some Valentine Birdie Fun tonight  – when Mini Golf Party Events brought the party to us at MOCA-CT!”

“Our hearts are filled with gratitude for our team of volunteers,” says Club203 co-founder Stacie Curran.

Happy Valentine’s Day to all!

Fun for all: Club203 at MoCA CT.

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Earthplace is ready for the rest of winter.

And spring.

Upcoming at the non-profit science, conservation and education center:

Woodland Egg Hunt: (April 18 & 19; hourly slots from 10 a.m. through 2 p.m.; $25 per child): A nature hunt for eggs, meet a live rabbit (and egg-laying animals), and create spring-themed crafts.

Toast to the Trees: Afternoon Beer Tasting and Kids Activities
(April 26, 4 to 6 p.m.; $35 adults 21+; $15 child). Arbor Day special. Explore the trails while sipping craft vrews. Kids have fun too. End with beer, food trucks, lawn games and a campfire with s’mores.

Cocktails & Clams Fundraiser: Sunset Evening on the Sound (May 31, 5 to 7 p.m.). Harbor Watch benefit, at Copps Island Oysters in Norwalk. Unlimited  raw bar, hors d’oeuvres, open bar, live band and silent auction.

Moth Ball (June 21, 8 to 11 p.m.). Observe nocturnal insects while sipping cocktails. Costumes are optional.

Click here for more information, including tickets.

Arbor Day at Earthplace.

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Gang of Four kicks off its farewell tour on April 18, at the Westport Library.

The pioneering band served a forerunner of the post-punk movement, fusing outspoken political messages with intense, percussive live set.

Tickets for the concert — an extension of VersoFest 2025 — are $55. Click here to purchase.

Tim “Journeys by DJ” Fielding, the founder of Brainiak Records, will spin tracks before the show.

Singer Jon King will be in the Trefz Forum earlier in the day for a conversation with Rock & Roll Hall of Famer (and Fairfield resident) Chris Frantz of Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club) about his new book, To Hell with Poverty!: A Class Act: Inside the Gang of Four.”

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The Staples boys basketball team rebounded (ho ho) from a rare loss to #1 St. Bernard’s on Saturday, with a 57-41 win over highly touted Fairfield Ludlowe, in Westport.

“06880” photographer/Staples sophomore Ryan Allen captured this great photo, of senior co-captain Charlie Bowman:

(Photo/Ryan Allen)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature is both basic and beautiful.

Pam Kesselman captured this sunrise at Compo Beach:

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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And finally … get ready for Gang of Four, as they kick off their farewell tour at (of course) the Westport Library (story above):

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

 

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Roundup: Galas Galore, Making Strides, Poet Laureate …

Posted on September 15, 2024 | 3 comments

You can’t say there’s nothing to do in Westport.

Yesterday afternoon, a couple of thousand folks strolled and ate their way through Slice of Saugatuck, sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

Yesterday evening, Wakeman Town Farm’s Harvest Fest drew — as always — a capacity crowd.

The food stations were as spectacular as the views of the gardens, and the community vibe. It’s one of Westport’s best parties of the year (with a kick-ass band).

(Photos/Dan Woog

Yesterday, Westport Emergency Medical Services hosted their own fundraiser, at Cedar Point Yacht Club.

That event, called “Band Aid” — get it? — also had all the ingredients needed for success: food, drinks, music, and tons of people enjoying themselves.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

And of course, the Westport Country Playhouse’s annual fundraising gala, featuring Kirstin Chinoweth, was a sold-sold, super-smash success.

But wait! There’s more!

Tonight, Peter Frampton comes alive at the Levitt Pavilion.

If you missed all the fun — or you had such a good time, you want more — get ready for next weekend.

Westoberfest — sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association — rocks Elm Street on Saturday (September 21, 2 to 5 p.m.).

Saturday afternoon and evening (3 to 7 p.m.), the Westport Rotary Club’s LobsterFest packs Compo Beach.

See you there!

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Felicia Sale invites “06880” readers to join Restore, in the fight against breast cancer.

As co-owner of the Post Road East wellness center offering cryotherapy, IV drips, infrared saunas and more, she has witnessed the profound impact the disease has on individuals and families.

Last year, her own life was forever changed when she was diagnosed with a non-invasive, early stage breast cancer confined to the milk ducts.

She was lucky. It turned out to be atypical/abnormal cells, but the journey to that discovery was very challenging.

Felicia underwent a bilateral mastectomy, a decision that was both physically and emotionally demanding.

She had not realized how many people in Westport had been affected by the disease until she went through it herself.

Felicia says, “I want to thank Pink Aid, and all the women in Westport who helped me navigate this journey. You know who you are. Your support was my strength, and I wouldn’t have been able to move forward without you.”

To pay it forward, she is forming a team for Making Strides Against Cancer, the October 20 walk-and-more at Sherwood Island State Park (9 a.m. to noon).

“This is a fantastic opportunity to come together as a community, have fun, and make a difference,” Felicia says.

Click here to join the Restore team, or make a donation.

As a special incentive, anyone donating $50 or more will receive a free core service at Restore. This includes a whole body cryo, infrared sauna session, red light therapy or compression therapy.

You’ll get a team t-shirt, too.

And the knowledge that you are “making strides” to make a difference, in the fight against breast cancer.

Felicia Sale

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Westport will soon have a new poet laureate.

Donna Disch succeeds Jessica Noyes McEntee, in the 2-year post. The public is invited to meet (and hear) the new laureate this Tuesday (September 17, 4 p.m., Westport Library).

The Westport Arts Committee and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will lead the event.

Disch is a 24-year Westport resident. She earned an MFA at Vermont College, and has participated in poetry workshops for more than 20 years.

Her poems have been published in the Aspen Anthology, Poetry East and Charleston Magazine, among others. A former high school English teacher, she  loves working with children. Disch looks forward to taking more poetry into our schools.

McEntee, her predecessor, worked closely with the Westport Public Art Collections Committee, adding poetry to artworks hanging in schools and Town Hall.

A poem of hers can been seen alongside the Passages sculpture recently installed at Pasacreta Park on the river. McEntee ran poetry workshops at Westport’s Center for Senior Activities, MoCA CT and the Library.

Donna Disch

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Luca Lombardo is perfect — 13-for-13 — as the extra points kicker for Boston College’s football team.

The 2022 Staples High School graduate is a 5-11, 174-pound junior, in his second year with the Eagles.

He kicked for Staples as a senior, after spending much of his youth as a soccer player. He was on Beachside’s MLS Next academy team, which prohibits members from playing high school soccer. (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)

Luca Lombardo

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Orange meets green on Saturday, October 5.

From 10:30 a.m. to noon that day, Westport Book Shop, Earthplace and the Westport Tree Board are sponsoring a kids’ “Paint Pumpkins on Jesup Green” event. There will be “special animal visits,” too.

Youngsters are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes.

Ready for painting. (Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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It’s a “flying fingers folk fest.”

The Flying Fingers Jug Band returns to First Folk Sunday on October 6 (12:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club). They were hit last year, and are back by popular demand.

The FFJB will be joined by singer/guitarist/First Folk Sunday mastermind Suzanne Sheridan.

The band features an eclectic mix of instruments, including washboard, string bass, jug, dobro, mandolin, fiddle, banjo, kazoo, mouth harp and stove pipe.

They “fuse the energy of post-Prohibition revelry, the vocal harmonies of bluegrass, and the authenticity of a juke joint.” Former Westonite David Barron plays banjo and mandolin.

They have appeared in some of New York’s coolest taverns, and made their national TV debut on the Food Network’s “The Kitchen.”

Click here for tickets. The music cover charge is $15. Table service is available for brunch or lunch, along with cocktails and beverages.

For more information on First Folk Sunday, click here or call 203-984-7562.

Flying Fingers Jug Band

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Lou Weinberg sends along today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — and a plea. He says:

“This rough-legged hawk was hunting a red squirrel in the Long Lots Preserve, surrounding the Westport Community Gardens.

“It moved so intently, disregarding my presence for the most part, and focused on the hunt. It was incredible to watch.

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

“The variety of trees, shrubs and wildflowers in the Long Lots Preserve makes it possible for nature to do its thing.

“The base of the food chain there (plants, insects) is very strong, and supplies energy all the way up to top level predators like this hawk. A healthy population of top-level predators keeps our ecosystems in balance.

“This rich, green open space is incredibly important to keeping our environment healthy through carbon sequestering, water retention and recycling, oxygen generation, temperature cooling, nutrient cycling and habitat supply.

“It would be incredibly disappointing to compromise this open space, especially considering the rapid pace of development and lack of open space on this side of town.

“It provides a wonderful opportunity for residents to take a break, slow down and appreciate the healing qualities of nature. What is being created here provides a phenomenal opportunity for environmental education for our children.

“Over a dozen local businesses and organizations have donated in-kind services to create this preserve. Over 100 people have donated tens of thousands of dollars to make the Long Lots Preserve a reality.

“Protecting this open space will benefit the town for generations. In a world where the environment is falling apart at the seams, this is an absolute model of suburban open space environmental rehabilitation.”

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And finally … Cannonball Adderley, the famed saxophonist and bandleader, was born on this date in 1928. He died in 1975, age 46, following a stroke.

Mercy, mercy, mercy!

(“Mercy me!” I hear you say. “How can I support ‘06880’?” It’s easy! Just click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution. We thank you!)

 

 

 

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Unsung Heroes #341

Posted on July 3, 2024 | 5 comments

Last night was — once again — Westport’s Best Party of the Year.

Ten thousand of so people crammed Compo Beach for several hours of parties, picnics, strolling, socializing, and — no matter what our individual political bents — celebrating our town and country the way it’s been done for nearly 250 years.

But those fireworks don’t just fall from the sky. (Metaphorically, at least.)

It takes a town-wide effort to put on that show.

Who, exactly, spent months making sure that last night went off with a bang?

Westport PAL: For more than half a century, they’ve organized the event. The small volunteer organization punches far above its weight. This is their major fundraiser of the year, enabling them to help thousands of youngsters with athletic programs and scholarships — and the entire town, with the Longshore skating rink. (If you enjoyed the fireworks, but did not purchase a beach ticket, you can still contribute. Just click here.)

Melissa and Doug Bernstein: The longtime Westporters are known both for their eponymous toy company, and their staunch support of many groups and activities in town. Their financial contribution relieves the PAL of many expenses, so they can direct even more of the proceeds back to kids.

Westport Parks & Recreation Department: From distributing tickets, directing traffic into and out of the beach, providing guest services and lifeguards at the event, offering all kinds of unseen logistical support — and, crucially, picking up prodigious amounts of trash all day long, then through the night after the show so that Compo looks pristine when the sun rose this morning — Parks & Rec plays a huge (and largely unappreciated) role.

That trash does not pick itself up. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Westport Police Department: Getting hundreds of cars into and out of the beach — on 2 access roads — is no small feat. Our police do it brilliantly. Throughout the event, they make sure that thousands of people feel (and are) safe.

Westport Fire Department: In countless ways — seen and unseen — the Fire Department helps the event run smoothly. And despite all the precautions, these are fireworks we’re talking about. It’s great to have these professional men and women on the scene.

Westport Emergency Medical Services: What can go wrong when thousands of people gather in one spot (and party hard)? Plenty. EMS is on the scene, with personnel, ambulances, and their always reassuring, very professional presence.

Community Emergency Response Team: These often-overlooked volunteers provide extra helping hands whenever and wherever they’re needed. They’re trained in disaster assistance. But CERT is one more reason last night turned out so well.

Town of Westport: From the Selectwoman’s office to Public Works — and I’m sure many other departments — we would not have fireworks without Town Hall. There are plenty of moving parts to a party like this one, and a ton of employees work behind the scenes to make sure all those parts keep moving.

Doug Bernstein (5th from left) handed Police Chief Foti Koskinas the ceremonial first fireworks ticket. Also part of the townwide effort (from left): Parks & Rec operations director Carmen Roda, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, PAL president Craig Bergamo, Melissa Bernstein, Parks & Rec interim director Rick Giunta and Lieut. Matthew Gouveia. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Sure, it’s easy to complain. All the good spots were reserved by 8 a.m.! There was trash piled next to the garbage cans! It took 45 minutes to get out of the parking lot! 

But who cares?

We had a glorious Independence Day celebration — and it’s not even July 4th yet.

Hundreds of people worked hard to make yesterday great. We owe them our profound thanks.

It was definitely a blast.

(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

Parks & Recreation Department operations director Carm Roda, checking in at yesterday’s fireworks. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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