Tag Archives: Westport Fire Department

Roundup: School Security, Daryl Hall, DPIC …

Posted on August 25, 2023 | 7 comments

On Wednesday, the Board of Finance authorized the addition of 3 officers, to patrol 6 Westport schools.

They will be responsible for security at 2 campuses: one each at Coleytown Middle and Elementary Schools;  Kings Highway and Saugatuck Elementary, and Long Lots/Greens Farms Elementary.

They will remain outside, unless called to an emergency inside.

The cost for a full year is $576,084. The request must now be approved by the Representative Town Meeting.

A second security item — a fob on all Staples High School staff members’ identification lanyard, which can summon help in a 500,000 square foot building and sprawling outdoor athletic facilities that does not have full cellphone service, or access to emergency phones everywhere — was withdrawn before the meeting.

One Westport police officer will be assigned to Coleytown Elementary School (foreground) Coleytown Middle (rear).

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Before the start of last night’s Levitt Pavilion benefit concert with Daryl Hall and Todd Rundrgren, disgruntled patrons emailed “06880.”

“There is a tent blocking the view for a good portion of the patrons’ section,” one person wrote.

One view of the obstructed view …

“The sound board obstructs the view for most patrons,” someone else said.

… and another.

Carleigh Welsh — the Levitt’s director of development and marketing — responded to an “06880” email, as soon as the complaints were forwarded to her.

She wrote: “We have been moving people into non-obstructed seats. It would help greatly if they could email the box office right now if they are still in a legitimately blocked seat and we can relocate them. Some people we have approached have opted to stay put.

“Happy to share more about the rain tent covering the console in an email after show, but right now helping ushers fix any issues.”

Meanwhile — despite rain — the show went on. Todd Rundgren and Daryl Hall are pros.

And the audience raised funds to help the Levitt provide another 60 or so free concerts next year.

Daryl Hall

Todd Rundgren (Photos/Les Dinkin)

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The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee says “thank you” to all who attended Tuesday’s charrette at the Westport Library.

The slideshow, and a presentation by Public Works director Pete Ratkiewich, are now available at the DPIC website (scroll down; right side).

Just below that is a chance to provide comments and feedback. The deadline is September 5.

The latest plan for Parker Harding Plaza, presented Tuesday by the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee.

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True to its word, the Westport Country Playhouse is introducing new, one-day-only programming aimed at a broad audience.

Emmy- and Tony-winning actor/singer/storyteller Mandy Patinkin brings his “Being Alive” concert to Westport September 28 (8 p.m.).

It’s an evening of his favorite Broadway and classic American tunes, from Irving Berlin and Cole Porter to Stephen Sondheim and Harry Chapin.

Tickets are $175 and $150. Click here to purchase, and for more information. The event sponsors are Bud and Roz Siegel.

Mandy Patinkin

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Westport’s Volunteer Emergency Medical Service responds to 2,500 9-1-1 calls each year.

As partial thanks, the Levitt Pavilion offers an annual “first responders tribute.”

This year’s event is September 8 (7:30 p.m.). As always, DNR — the great, fun and rockin’ (almost) all-physician band will play.

EMTs and volunteers will be on hand. An ambulance will be there too, for tours (and, if needed, any emergency).

Like most Levitt shows, it’s free. But tickets are required: click here.

DNR

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A new school year starts Tuesday.

Which means everyone who graduated in June from Staples is now off to college, working, in the military, taking a gap year, or otherwise amusing themselves.

Which also means: Isn’t it time you took down your “Home of a 2023 Staples High School graduate” sign?

We get it. You were proud. Congratulations!

Now let’s move on …

Graduation is over! (Photo/Dan Woog)

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MDSolarSciences — the Westport-based sunscreen company — spent a day last week on a “sun safety tour.”

They handed out products to grateful — and now-protected — police, firefighters, EMTs, and Longshore employees.

MDSolarSciences representatives, and Westport firefighters.

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Braiden Sunshine — who recently open for Leann Rimes, and mesmerized the audience — stars at the next First Folk Sunday (September 3, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, 12:30 p.m.; $10).

In 2015 — just 15 years old — he reached the semifinals of “The Voice.”

Click here for tickets. For more information, email info@firstfolksunday.com, or call 203-222-1441.

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Ellie Hamby and Dr. Sandy Hazelip — 81-year-old friends — got plenty of attention last year, when they circled the globe in 80 days. They traveled to 18 countries, and visited all 7 continents.

At the Yale Club on Wednesday, Howard Matson — a Westporter, and past international president of the Circumnavigators Club — honored the women with honorary memberships in the 121-year-old organization.

Howard Matson, with octogenarian circumnavigators.

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It’s a “Westport … Naturally” scene many Westporters don’t see.

But Mary Sikorski was up early, and captured it:

(Photo/Mary Sikorski)

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And finally … in honor of last night’s Levitt Pavilion benefit concert (story above):

(Another day, another Roundup of all things Westport. If you enjoy this daily feature, please consider supporting our work. Just click here — and thank you!)

 

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Posted in Downtown, Education, Entertainment, Local politics, Police, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Tax-Free Week, Pastaficio, Greenwalds …

Posted on August 21, 2023 | 1 comment

The Westport Downtown Association reminds shoppers that Connecticut’s Sales Tax-Free week began yesterday. It runs through this Saturday (August 26).

Retail purchases of most clothing and footwear priced under $100 are exempt from Connecticut sales and use tax. The exemption applies to each eligible item under $100.f

Many retailers add their own discounts.

For more details on Sales Tax-Free Week, including a list of items that are exempt or taxable, click here.

Footwear (and clothing) is exempt from sales taxes this week — for items under $100. (Photo/Alison Lee)

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Westport firefighters responded to a structure fire on Compo Road South just before midnight yesterday.

All occupants were safely out of the house. Damage was limited to the exterior.

Mutual aid from Norwalk and Fairfield provided station coverage. Westport Police and Emergency Medical Service assisted.

The last unit cleared at 1:36 a.m. As fire companies were leaving, they were dispatched to I-95 northbound between Exits 17 and 18 for a motor vehicle crash involving a car and tractor-trailer, with injuries.

Less than 10 minutes after that call, additional companies responded to a second motor vehicle crash with injuries in the same vicinity. Westport EMS assisted at both incidents.

Compo Road South fire. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)

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Pastificio has been closed for a couple of weeks.

A sign in its window on the Post Road store says: “We inform our kind customers that Il Pastificio will reopen on Sunday 20 [yesterday], temporarily as a pasta shop and not as a restaurant, until a date to be determined.”

We’re not sure if that means they’ll go back at some point to also serving as a restaurant — or if they’ll close at some point permanently.

“06880” will pass along details when we have them. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)

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Tommy Greenwald is a man of many talents. The 1979 Staples High School graduate is a noted advertising executive, playwright and young adult author.

He’s also known as the father of Charlie Greenwald — no slouch in the acting/comedy/writing departments either. (And himself a Staples grad, class of 2012.)

Father and son have now collaborated on a new book. They co-wrote “The Rescues: Finding Home,” a children’s book about rescue animals.

(“It’s appropriate for everyone who’s alive,” notes Tommy, in true marketing mode.)

They’ll be appearing at the Westport Library’s StoryFest in October. If you can’t wait that long, check them out at Brooklyn’s Books are Magic (September 9, noon to 1 p.m.), the Rye Book Festival (September 23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) or the Chappaqua Book Festival (September 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Or click here to pre-order. The publication date is September 5.

Charlie and Tommy Greenwald, and their book.

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Frank Mastrone brought his very popular American Songbook show to the Levitt Pavilion last night.

Joining him were 2 other Broadway stars, both of whom performed — as he did — in “Phantom of the Opera.”

And both are Westporters: Staples High School graduate and classically trained opera singer Terry Eldh, and Dodie Pettit, aka one-half of Aztec Two-Step 2.0.

The evening was sponsored by Roger Leifer, as part of his “Sunday Series.” He threw a pre- and post-concert party for his tenants — a rare but welcome gesture by a commercial real estate landlord.

Frank Mastrone (center), with (from left) Dodie Pettit and Terry Eldh. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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This has been the “summer of sewers” in Westport.

Work continues in various spots around town — or at least, equipment is ready.

This was the scene yesterday, off Whitney Street:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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A “rainbow” at the Westport Community Gardens frames today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Karen Mather)

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And finally … in honor of Tommy and Charlie Greenwald’s new book (story above):

(Welcome to another week of “06880” stories and features — and another gentle request for readers’ support. Please click here. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Downtown, Economy, Entertainment, Media, Restaurants

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Roundup: Long Lots Meeting, Elm Tree Down, Earthplace Bash …

Posted on August 9, 2023 | 16 comments

The next meeting of the Long Lots School Building Committee is tomorrow (Thursday, August 10, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 201).

The first 15 minutes are open for public comment and/or questions about the project.

A work session with the design team follows, for project status updates and review. The public may attend the work session, but not participate.

Long Lots Elementary School is 70 years old. It began as a junior high school.

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Westport has one less elm tree.

The large one in front of Stop & Shop — among the last survivors in Westport — was taken down a few days ago.

The removal was part of the Post Road improvement project.

We all know the gorgeous specimen on Long Lots Road. Where else in town can we see a majestic elm? Click “Comments,” with your favorite. (Hat tip: Nate Gibbons)

(Photo/Nate Gibbons)

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Sixteen members of the Connecticut Interstate Fire Crew left yesterday to fight wildfires in Montana. They flew from Bradley International Airport, on a multi-week deployment.

Among them: 2 former Westport Fire Department chiefs, Michael Kronick and Andrew Kingsbury.

Connecticut firefighters, at Bradley Airport.

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Yesterday’s Westport Rotary meeting highlighted the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants. President/CEO Susan Schnitzer and associate director Deo Byakisaka discussed their 105-year-old organization, which offers services, advocacy, and social, educational and life skills programming for refugees, immigrants, survivors of human trafficking and torture, and unaccompanied minors.

Deo described his own journey as a refugee, and his successful integration into the local community.

He left the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2003 because of war, persecution and violence. He and his family spent 11 years in a resettlement camp in Uganda before arriving in Bridgeport in 2014.

CIRI helped him establish a productive life for himself and his children. He now gives back, working in refugee services at CIRI.

Deo Byakisaka, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.

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Fishermen are known for telling tall tales.

If these guys tell you they can walk on water: Don’t believe them.

(Photo/Jim Hood)

They were actually at the end of the Schlaet’s Point jetty, at Hillspoint Road and Soundview Drive, during high tide yesterday.

But it sure is a very cool photo.

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The best weekend on the Earthplace calendar returns soon.

It kicks off Saturday, September 30  (7 to 10 p.m.), with the “Woodside Bash.” There’s an open bar, fire pit, music by Pimpinella, and a mechanical bull. Click here for tickets.

The next day is for families. The Fall Festival (Sunday, October 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) includes a climbing wall, apple slingshot, donut on a string, pumpkin bowling, hayrides, a corn pool and more. Click here for tickets.

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It’s been a while since the Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand play reading series offered a good, old-fashioned romantic comedy.

But that’s next. “Maytag Virgin” takes the stage on August 21 (7 p.m.).

Script in Hand curator Mark Shanahan says, “I know our audience will fall in love with these wonderful characters as Jack and Lizzy meditate on life, love, and joys of folding laundry.”

For more information, including tickets, click here.

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The Abraham Accords, Iran appeasement, food inflation, security concerns, immigration, New York real estate — that’s a lot to cover.

But Avi Kaner did, in a wide-ranging interview with WABC radio’s Suzanne Miller.

Westporters know Avi as a former Board of Finance chair, and 2nd Selectman.

He was on the air though as co-owner of New York’s Morton Williams supermarket chain.

Click here to listen.

Avi Kaner

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An Eastern tiger swallowtail poses handsomely, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Daniel Maya)

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And finally … Happy National Polka Day!

(Please click here to “prosím darujte“ — or, as polka fans everywhere know, “please donate” — to “06880.” Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Children, Education, Entertainment, Environment, Local politics, Media, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: NASA, WFD, GOAT …

Posted on August 2, 2023 | 2 comments

Compo Beach-goers got more than the usual evening delights — a beautiful sky and welcoming breeze — yesterday.

Even if they weren’t aware of it.

A few minutes after 8:30, a NASA rocket with supplies for the International Space Station took off from Virginia.

Its contrails were clear to anyone who looked.

A few minutes later, the rocket ignition itself was visible.

(Photos/Jennifer Kobetitsch)

Another view of the rocket launch. (Photo/Marjolijn Baxendale)

Soon came a full moon rise — the “sturgeon moon” — over the cannons…

(Photo/Michelle Harmon)

,,, and another view, slightly higher …

(Photo/Mary Robertshaw)

… and then, this timeless image ….

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

… and another:

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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Beth Keane lives off South Compo Road, not far from the fire and police stations, and EMS headquarters.

Lately, she’s heard an increased number of sirens all day long.

I live near her. I’ve noticed it too.

She notes, “This absolutely is not the fault of our wonderful emergency services.” 

Beth wonders if there are more emergencies overall. More likely, she thinks, sirens are used more frequently “due to the increasingly horrible traffic congestion. That may be the only way to clear a path.

“It is not so routine these days to maneuver a police vehicle, fire truck or ambulance given the current congested traffic situation in good weather — let alone through snow and ice.

“At high speed it is dicey at best, probably hair-raising, and a testament to the skill of our protectors.”

I thought about this on Monday, when a fire truck raced west on the Post Road.

The 2 lanes (plus turning lanes) were stopped for a red light at Imperial and Myrtle Avenues. With no traffic coming toward it, the vehicle maneuvered into the eastbound lane, slowed at the light, then continued toward the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, as cars slowly moved right in front of Bank of America.

It’s a scene repeated several times a day. Those sirens are definitely needed.

Drive carefully, so you won’t need emergency vehicles.

But if you see one coming — ahead of you, or behind — pull over. Give it room. To help us, they need our help.

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You’d expect a goat at Wakeman Town Farm.

But at The Porch at Christie’s?

Sure! The farm, and the restaurant just a few yards east on Cross Highway, teamed up to create the “WTF G.O.A.T. Bowl.”*  It includes strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, bananas, Arethusa Farm yogurt and quinoa — topped with Wakeman Town Farm honey.

It’s $12, and is available through September 30.

Also new at The Porch: animal sugar cookies of sheep, alpacas and goats. Made by their nonprofit Sweet P Bakery, they’re $3 each. 10 % of the proceeds are donated to WTF.

The animal cookies are also available at the Town Farm’s Saturday farm stand.

* The letters stand for “Greatest Of All Time.”

Wakeman Town Farm’s GOAT Salad at The Porch.

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The Westport Library board of trustees has a new president.

Barrie Rosen takes over for Jeremy Price. He remains on the board, as immediate past president.

Rosen — a longtime Library advocate — has served on the board since 2020. She leads marketing communications at Consumer Reports after earlier stints at YP (formerly Yellowpages.com), Fox News, News 12 Connecticut, and several public relations agencies. She also serves on the board of Staples Tuition Grants.

Joining the board as new members are Bob Boroujerdi, a former partner at Goldman Sachs who most recently served as a managing director at Third Point LLC; Mark Silverstein, an internet technology and media executive who has worked at Spotify, Luminary, and HuffPost; and Martina Sze, chief development officer at HealthVest.

Of the 20 Library board members, 10 are selected by the board itself. The other 10 are chosen by the Representative Town Meeting.

Top row (from left): Immediate past president Jeremy Price, president Barrie Rosen, secretary Melissa Banks. Bottom: new board members Mark Silverstein, Bob Boroujerdi and Martina Sze.

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Lou Weinberg was the Westport Rotary Club’s guest speaker yesterday.

The Westport Community Gardens director described the tight community of avid, organic gardeners that has evolved over their 20 years at the current site, just south of Long Lots Elementary School.

He also talked about the Long Lots Preserve, the project that has reclaimed overgrown town land surrounding the garden. It’s filled now with native plants, birds and insects (particularly bees).

Lou Weinberg, at the Westport Rotary Club. His slide show highlighted the Westport Community Gardens — and the gardeners who make up the community.

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Paul von Schmidt died on July 23, at 67. He was born in Westport to Peter and Annie von Schmidt, and lived in Collinsville, Connecticut.

Music was one of Paul’s greatest passions. After graduating from Staples High School, he studied  in Vermont to be a luthier. He opened a successful business in Barkhamsted, Connecticut, making and fixing stringed instruments.

He worked with Ovation Guitars. He also repaired guitars for music stores throughout the state, supporting and advocating for local musicians. He was a talented guitar player in his own right, too,

Paul was a talented chef (known for his homegrown, homemade hot sauces), artist and avid learner.

He is survived by his daughters Tara von Schmidt and Alissa Savage-Paul (Chris); grandchildren Alexandria Savage, Ariana Savage and Finn Paul; brother Christian, extended family, and countless friends.

His family says, “Paul’s life was defined by music, storytelling and good friendships. In his honor we encourage you to raise a glass, strum a guitar string, or plan your next adventure, just as he would have wanted.”

A celebration of his life will be held in Westport on August 22. Click here for more information. To plant a tree in Paul’s memory, click here. (Hat tip: JD Dworkow) 

Paul von Schmidt

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There are tons of beautiful waterfront gardens.

At the top of any list: Martin Greenberg and Becky Keeler’s, on the Saugatuck River.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature includes one small section of their gorgeous — and very green — property.

(Photo/Becky Keeler)

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And finally … Happy International Clown Week!

(“Isn’t it rich …?” Sure! Please click here to support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Library, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants

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Roundup: Interim Fire Chief, Lobster Fest Tickets, Long Lots Meeting …

Posted on July 21, 2023 | 3 comments

Westport has a new interim fire chief.

Mark Amatrudo takes over, effective Monday. Deputy Chief Nicholas Marsan, recently named town emergency management director, will continue in his dual role as deputy chief.

Amatrudo is a third generation chief fire officer. He has served as a career and volunteer assistant chief, deputy chief and acting chief for almost 25 years, including as Westport’s interim deputy chief from 2005-07. 

Amatrudo is an Emergency Medical Technician. He also holds the highest level of fire service certifications in various areas, including fire officer, fire service instructor and safety officer.

He served as a Connecticut Fire Academy Instructor for almost 30 years. He developed a course for the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program, and spent years instructing at the National Fire Academy campus in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

Among his awards are FEMA National Outstanding Citizen Corps Council Award, Connecticut Emergency Manager of the Year, Connecticut Fire Instructor of the Year, Connecticut Exchange Club Hero Award and Holmatro Rescue Award.

Amatrudo holds a BS degree from Stonehill College, and an Executive MBA from the University of New Haven. 

Mark Armatrudo

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It’s mid-July. Time to get tickets for the fall LobsterFest!

In fact, it may soon be too late. The Westport Rotary Club’s mega-fundraiser sells out very quickly.

This year’s event is September 23 (3 to 7 p.m., Compo Beach). As usual always, Rotary offers 2 1.25-pound lobsters or a 14-ounce New York strip steak; corn, cole slaw, potato salad and bread.

Plus of course live music; kids’ games and activities; unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks, and a cash raw bar.

It’s one of Westport’s best parties. The timing is perfect, at the start of a new school year. The weather is wonderful. The food and entertainment are plentiful.

And the money raised helps Rotary support a wide array of great causes.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

A small part of the large LobsterFest.

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The Long Lots School Building Committee holds a special meeting next Tuesday, (July 25, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 309).

The session begins with public comment and/or questions about the project.

A work session follows with the design team, for updates and review. The public can attend the work session, but not participate.

If time permits, public input will be allowed at the end of the meeting.

Long Lots Elementary School is 70 years old.

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This is the weekend for the always-anticipated, very giant Pequot Library Book Sale.

Over 100,000 items in 50-plus categories are on sale.

Hours are:

  • Today (Friday, July 21): 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, Sunday and Monday (July 22-24): 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Tuesday (July 25): 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pequot Library

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Paddle is coming to Westport.

That’s “Paddle for the Sound” — not (this time) paddleball.

For 9 days (July 29 to August 6), the 8th annual Save the Sound fundraiser draws people of all ages for a leisure paddle — or a kayak, stand up paddle board (SUP) and canoe competition.

Participants track their distances paddled, while raising funds to protect Long Island Sound and its rivers, restore local ecosystems, fight climate change, and save endangered lands.

They’ll take screenshots of the distance on each excursion, and send it to the Paddle for the Sound team to compile results. Prizes are awarded for total distance paddled, and most funds raised.

Click here for more information, and to sign up.

Enjoy a paddle. Save the Sound! (Photo/Lisa Price)

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Fig Linens & Home is moving.

A fixture on Post Road East near Main Street since 2004, their lease is up at the end of August.

They’re not sure where they’ll go. But they are not closing.

A “Moving Sale” is underway. As the sign says: Everything must go.

(Photo/Patti Brill)

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In the 5 years she has hosted matchmaking events for singles, Jill Dunn has connected thousands of people.

Her next event — and your next chance at relationship bliss — is July 30 (4:30 p.m., Gabriele’s Steakhouse).

For tickets, click here. For more information on Jill’s events, click here.

Jill Dunn

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Most of the time, action at the Westport Astronomical Society’s observatory is in the sky.

On Wednesday, the action shifted to the ground. A family of 4 bobcats visited.

They seemed more interested in looking down than up.

Then again, this was their land long before we humans arrived.

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Longtime Westporter Stewart Greenfield died peacefully at Bridgeport Hospital on Wednesday.

A service is set for Sunday (July 23, 12:30 p.m., Abraham Green & Son Funeral Home, 88 Beach Rd, Fairfield. Visitation begins at 11:30 a.m.

Interment is at Temple Israel Cemetery (225 Richards Avenue). The family will then host mourners at their Westport home.

The family will sit Shiva tonight through July 26 (6 to 8 p.m., 279 Sturges Highway and 49 East 86th Street, Apt 11B/C, New York).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Nature Conservancy or St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland.

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This frog looks huge.

It’s really just an inch long. But Molly Alger captured it perfectly — on the outside of her kitchen window — for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally … Tony Bennett died this morning in New York. He was 96.

The New York Times called him “a singer whose melodic clarity, jazz-influenced phrasing, audience-embracing persona and warm, deceptively simple interpretations of musical standards helped spread the American songbook around the world and won him generations of fans.”

He was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016. He continued to perform and record, however. His last public performance was in August that year, with Lady Gaga at Radio City Music Hall. Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Environment, Local business, Local politics, Obituaries

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Roundup: Fireworks Trash, Long Lots, Prospect Gardens …

Posted on June 30, 2023 | 8 comments

Thousands of people had a blast at last night’s fireworks.

There was wonderful community spirit. Friends met; strangers mingled; joy filled the air.

The one downside: Not everyone picked up after themselves.

Totney Benson notes: “Substantial debris was left behind. Most impressive was the carefully piled and bagged trash and pizza boxes a mere 15 steps from the trash bins!”

(Photo/Rick Carpenter)

So Public Works and Parks & Recreation Department employees were out in force, all night long and right through dawn, making sure Compo Beach and Soundview Drive look perfect for the weekend.

(Photo/Rick Carpenter)

Thanks to all who helped — those who cleaned up after themselves, and those who cleaned up after those who did not.

And if you left a mess: Just think about the message you sent to Westport.

Especially to your kids.

(Photo/Karen Como)

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The Long Lots School Building Committee posted this on Facebook:

“The LLS Building is working through the feasibility phase of the project. The committee, along with an architectural design firm and construction management company, is still evaluating and discussing all three options for the future of LLS.

“Options include: 1) Renovate the existing school as new, 2) Renovate the existing school as new plus build additions, or, 3) Build a new school building. With all three options, the existing school needs to remain open and in use during construction.

“No recommendations or decisions regarding how to proceed have been made. The committee expects to make a recommendation to the Selectwoman’s office in August.

“The committee is taking great care to evaluate all aspects of the site to find the ideal location for a new building or additions, while respecting the residential neighborhood, maintaining town fields, ensuring adequate parking, and preserving or relocating town assets such as the community gardens – it is a challenging balance!

“While the school is the priority, the committee fully appreciates the beauty and value of the community gardens, as well as the importance of town fields and maintaining a symbiotic relationship with neighbors. At this point, the committee is considering all options before making its recommendation. We know the town governing bodies and Westport residents would want and expect nothing less.

“The LLSBC will hold its next scheduled meeting on Friday, June 30 at 10 a.m. All Building Committee meetings are noticed on the Town website. The public is welcome to attend and there is time for public comment/questions at the meetings.”

The Long Lots Elementary School campus. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

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Westport celebrated the 4th of July with fireworks last night, on June 29th.

But there are still 5 days to go until the holiday. And many Westporters will be thinking of more pyrotechnics.

Westport Fire Marshal Terry Dunn says, “The public has been overwhelmed with advertisement, signs, and sales pitches of so-called fireworks. The only legal ‘fireworks’ items in Connecticut are sparklers.

Sparklers are non-explosive, non-aerial devices that contain less than 100 grams of pyrotechnic material. They can be legally used only by persons aged 16 or older.”

Novelty items like party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that emits a flame are not legal for private use in Connecticut. In addition to being illegal, exploding devices can cause painful, debilitating injuries.

Sky lanterns (small hot air balloons made of paper, with an opening at the bottom where a small fire burns) are also illegal in Connecticut. They can cause fires and injury. The flaming lantern can travel long distances and drop onto roof tops, fields, trees and power lines.

Our area has experienced dry conditions, making it very easy for fireworks, sparklers and fountains to cause brush fires. Extreme caution must be exercised even with campfires, as the fire danger has been elevated.

Possessing or causing to explode fireworks can result in a fine or incarceration.

Sparklers are legal — but only for people 16 and older. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between June 21 and 28.

A woman was arrested for larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, identity theft and conspiracy to commit identity theft.

A companion had been arrested on similar charges earlier. They stemmed from the complaint of a First County Bank customer, after a fraudulent check of hers was cashed for $2,940. Her car had been broken into, and her purse stolen.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 4 citations
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Larceny: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Driving with a foreign license for more than 30 days: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Violation of readable plates: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to drive right: 1

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Over 30 Y’s Men of Westport & Weston members, and their guests, were treated to a tour of Prospect Gardens on Wednesday.

Owners Melissa and John Ceriale welcomed the visitors, who were led by curator/landscape designer/master planner Cindy Shumate.

The Prospect Road property includes nearly 9 acres of flowers, shrubs, lawns, walking paths, meadows, orchards, trees and more.

Y’s Men and guests, at Prospect Gardens. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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If you missed Alison Stewart’s WNYC “All of It” interview about the Westport Library’s first-in-the-nation record label vinyl release — no problem.

You can hear it — including an interview with sound engineer Travis Bell, artist Dani Capalbo, and some of the music recorded at the Library’s Verso Studio — by clicking here.

Travis Bell, at work.

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The year is winding down for the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club. On Wednesday, new president Liz Wong was inducted.

They’re still smiling over last weekend’s Great Duck Race. More than 3,000 plastic ducks “competed,” raising more than $70,000 that the club will donate to charities.

Here’s the entire event, in just 42 seconds:

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Stacy Prince offers an intriguing close-up, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Stacy Prince)

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And finally … Bobby Osborne, a singer and mandolin player whose bluegrass band flouted convention by using drums, electric bass, pedal steel guitar, twin banjos and string sections — and were the first to amplify their instruments — died Tuesday near Nashville. He was 91.

The Osborne Brothers are best known for their 1967 record, “Rocky Top.” Click here for full obituary.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to support our work, with a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Happy June 29th!

Posted on June 30, 2023 | 3 comments

The date doesn’t matter.

Whenever Westport celebrates July 4th, we do it right.

It wouldn’t be the fireworks without Andrew Colabella.

Once again — thanks to the generosity of Melissa and Doug Bernstein; the hard work of Westport PAL, Parks & Recreation Department, Police, Fire and EMS — several thousand Westporters and friends enjoyed the best night of the year.

Doug and Melissa Bernstein sponsor the fireworks — so that Westport PAL can make money, to support thousands of youth programs and scholarships.

The ghost chairs — empty all day — were filled by late afternoon. There was plenty of food and drink; lots of sparklers and red-white-and-blue apparel, and only a few lost kids.

The fireworks — the finale — were just part of the party.

The barge, ready for the show.

And now we’ve got 5 more days to celebrate our nation’s independence.

One party, among hundreds.

PS: After all that, the beach was immaculate at dawn today. Kudos to all the Parks & Rec employees — and anyone else who made it happen.

Parks & Rec employees worked hard, all day long — and all night too.

Arm candy. (Photo/Miggs Burroughs)

One of several PAL stands …

… and CJ Healy and Case Robinson set up their own stand, to raise money to build basketball courts in Cuba.

Not all the Grucci fireworks workers were on the barge. These guys took a break from working on shore.

There were parties on Soundview Drive …

… an impromptu meeting of town leaders …

,,, and a chat between Jane Green and Michael Bregman.

Not far from a massive volleyball game …

… EMTs stood ready.

It wouldn’t be the fireworks without some fun on the sand …

… and on the lifeguard stand. (All photos/Dan Woog)

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Roundup: Fireworks Photos, Soundview Sculpture, Burying Hill …

Posted on June 29, 2023 | 9 comments

There’s a lot going on today.

The beach will be jammed. Folks deck themselves out in red-white-and-blue. There are cookouts, picnics, and flags galore.

“06880” wants to show the world what a Westport Independence Day (5 days early) looks like. Please send photos — of your kids, your decorations, your dog — to 06880blog@gmail.com. Deadline is 10 p.m. tonight.

Be creative — and have fun!

NOTE: Please stay away from actual photos of fireworks. They pretty much all look the same.

Happy birthday, America!

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Speaking of fireworks:

Tonight, Soundview Drive will be closed to traffic. Thousands of Westporters will stroll up and down the beach exit road. It’s party time!

And — just in time for Westport’s biggest bash — a new sculpture has been installed in a Soundview yard.

It’s drawn stares — and raves — from passersby. Today, many more will see it for the first time.

Among the comments overheard:

  •  “Wow! I never noticed the sculpture in that garden before!”
  • “Is she the goddess of the sea?
  • “Is she Medusa, but not have snakes?”
  • “She’s the captain’s wife, waiting for him to return.”
  • “No, she’s the captain’s wife, waiting for her to return.”
  • “Compo Beach mama will protect my grandson.”
  • “Is she an Indian goddess?”
  • “Why couldn’t they just get a natural tree?”
  • “I have tears in my eyes.”

(Photo/John McKinney)

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Speaking still of the fireworks:

All is ready, in many ways. When you gotta go …

(Photos/Dinkin Fotografix)

Here’s hoping we haven’t, um, wiped out United Site Service’s entire inventory.

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Compo Beach will look great tonight (except for the port-a-potties).

Burying Hill … not so much.

An “06880” reader sends this photo —

— and writes:

“This looks like a tort waiting to happen.

“The bottom rail is rusted and snapped off the cement step, with no support.

“Folks like the beach ‘rustic.’ I’m sure they don’t like unsafe/dangerous.”

And, the reader adds: “The showers need attention too. And other things.”

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Westport’s rainbow crosswalk — installed at 5 a.m. June 1 on Jesup Road and Taylor Place, in honor of Pride month — is showing signs of wear.

But a new crosswalk will replace it soon. And — because honoring the LGBTQ+ community has no end date — it will be permanent.

Yesterday morning, the Board of Selectwomen unanimously approved the new downtown feature.

It will be funded entirely by donations. Material used for the new installation will be thermally fused to the asphalt, which Public Works director Pete Ratkiewich says ensures durability for up to 10 years.

The same material has been used previously on Main Street, as well as by Norwalk for their rainbow crosswalk.

The design will feature 2 white bars, with colored panels representing the full spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community in between.

Dr. Nikki Gorman, who sponsored the June crosswalk with Galia Gichon, hard at work installing it earlier this month.

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Today marks the 92nd birthday of the Westport Country Playhouse.

On this day in 1931, the curtain rose on “The Streets of New York.” Dorothy Gish starred, and a new era in American theater was born.

Nearly a century later, the historic institution is in dire straits. Here’s the birthday greeting the Playhouse sent yesterday:

“Tomorrow the Playhouse celebrates 92 years of creating theater and entertainment for all ages right here in Westport!

“Now we need your help to ensure we’re here for another 92 years of vibrant arts programming for our community. Please join us in helping us raise an immediate and necessary $2,000,000 by July 31.

“We’re 10% there and every bit counts — click to give $92 in honor of our birthday or any amount to help save your Playhouse!”

Gloria Swanson arrives at the Westport Country Playhouse (1961).

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Lowell Weicker died yesterday, at 92.

The Connecticut Mirror’s obituary begins:

Lowell P. Weicker Jr., who swaggered through three terms as Connecticut’s last Republican senator, challenging Richard Nixon over Watergate and the GOP’s rightward shift under Ronald Reagan, then willed the state’s income tax into existence in a second act as a third-party governor, died Wednesday.

He did not have much to do with Westport, beyond representing us in the US House of Representative for 1 term and the Senate for 3, and serving as governor for 1 term.

But he was a towering figure — both politically and physically — for much of his life.

And, as a moderate, socially progressive Northeast Republican, he was part of a party branch that is now virtually extinct.

Weicker was “a fierce defender of abortion rights, the separation of church and state, and funding for social services, oceanic exploration and AIDS research.” He also co-authored the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In Connecticut, his legacy — proposing and passing a state income tax — endures today.

Click here for the full CT Mirror obituary of this fascinating man.

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Timing is everything.

LifeBridge — the Bridgeport non-profit that offers behavioral health services, youth development and asset-building resources for underserved families — scheduled its annual fundraising gala for tonight at the Inn at Longshore.

When they learned the fireworks were set for the same night, they adjusted the timing so guests could get to and from the event without getting stuck in traffic. The new start time is 4 p.m.

Of course, attendees can stay to watch the pyrotechnics after the program ends, at 7:30.

The gala includes the premiere of a documentary featuring Bridgeport middle school youth involved in LifeBridge’s Mural Club. They designed and painted a 100-foot mural on the side of their building on Fairfield Avenue. It’s based on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s concept of a “beloved community,” part of his 6 Principles of Nonviolence.

LifreBridge hopes to serve more youth, in response to soaring demand. To donate, text the word “Beloved” to 53555.

LifeBridge mural.

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There was animal drama earlier this week.

Eagle-eyed Westport Library patrons spotted a baby deer trapped on a narrow stretch of rocky shoreline, on the west bank of the Saugatuck River.

(Photo/Keith Styrcula)

Keith Styrcula and Mike Loparo drove across the bridge, to see if they could help unite it with its mother.

Animal Control and the Westport Fire Department responded to calls from residents.

Firefighters had to leave for another call — but returned as soon as they could.

Joe Saponare of Animal Control was there the entire time. With persistence and ingenuity, he eventually got the baby up to land, across from Assumption Church.

Congratulations to Joe, and all who helped in any way.

Part of the rescue effort. (Photo courtesy of Joe Loparo)

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Eugene Gans of Westport died Monday, at Norwalk Hospital. He was 93.

The New York City native loved his career and colleagues in R&D at Hoffman-LaRoche, Richardson-Vicks and Medicis.

Gene is survived by his wife of 70 years, Roslyn Gans; daughter Lois Gans Kemp (Lee), grandson Steven Kemp, and family and friends. He was predeceased by his son Steven Gans.

Funeral services will be held today (Thursday, June 29, 11 a.m., Abraham L. Green & Son Funeral Home, Fairfield, CT). Shiva will be observed at the Gans residence in Westport. For more information and to share an online message, click here.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Westport Senior Center, 21 Imperial Ave. Westport, CT 06880 or the Westport Library.

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Clearly, today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo was not taken this morning.

 (Photo/Cathy Malkin)

If it had been, you’d see dozens of ghost chairs, tables and tents lining the sand.

And before you yap “Dogs are not allowed on the beach!” — look carefully.

Honey, Daisy, Yogi Bear and Bailey are not actually on the beach.

Happy fireworks!

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And finally … on this day in 1956 President Eisenhower signed the Federal Aid Highway Act, officially creating the United States Interstate Highway System.

Sure, it’s now possible to drive the entire length and breadth of the country without stopping for a red light. But today, at least one part of it — I-95 in Connecticut — can be called …

(Today — before celebrating the red, white and blue — consider sending a little green “06880”‘s way. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

 

 

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Posted in Obituaries, Politics, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Cops & Firefighters, Lacrosse, Dogs …

Posted on June 10, 2023 | 1 comment

It was a tense game, with plenty of close calls.

But in the end last night, the Westport Police Department defeated the Westport Fire Department, 19-14, in a benefit softball game at Compo Beach.

All proceeds go to the Tommy Fund, supporting patients and their families undergoing pediatric cancer treatment.

The opposing teams smiled, and celebrated together.

The next game is Saturday, July 8, also at Compo.

Friendly foes, before the game. (Photo and hat tip/Andrew Colabella)

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And after another close game yesterday: Congratulations to the Staples High School boys lacrosse team!

They defeated archrival Darien — as they’ve made a habit of doing recently — yesterday 9-8, in the state “L” (large schools) tournament.

The victory by the #2 Wreckers over the #3 seed Blue Wave vaults Staples into the state championship game. It’s set for tomorrow, 3 p.m. at Sacred Heart University.

That’s a fitting spot for coach Will Koshansky’s team. They’re the defending state champs, after winning their first-ever title last spring.

Their foe on Sunday is Fairfield Prep. The Jesuits are the top seed.

Go Wreckers!

The 2023 Staples boys lacrosse team.

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Prospect Gardens – the magnificent Greens Farms property — is open to the public tomorrow (Sunday, June 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; GPS either 13 or 25 Prospect Road).

It was first settled in 1813. Noted landscape designer Cindy Shumate first saw the property in 1997; at the time, an 1874 farmhouse sat on an acre of suburban yard.

It has been expanded over time by John and Melissa Ceriale to 9 magnificent acres. Prospect Gardens now includes a Mediterranean garden, 2 orchards, an amphitheater, terraced vegetable garden, woodland walk and wildflower meadow. Winding paths lead from one area to the next.

Mark Demmerle will play classical guitar in the newly finished stone/grass amphitheater. It’s the first performance by anyone in the venue. For more information, click here.

A small portion of 9-acre Prospect Gardens.

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June is dog license month. And all dogs over 6 months old must be licensed.

It’s $8 for neutered male or spayed females. $19 for male or female. There is a $1 penalty per month for renewal licenses issued after June 30. A $75 infraction will be issued for any non-licensed dog, and for any dog not wearing a tag.

Click here, then scroll down for online registration. To register by mail, click here. For all dog license information, click here.

Yeah, you’re cute. But you still need a license. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of Staples: The World Languages Department has awarded 215 “Seals of Biliteracy” to graduating seniors. The Seal “affirms the value of diversity and honors the cultures and languages in our community,” school officials say.

More than half of the seals — 126 — were for Spanish. Other languages represented were French (29), Italian (26), Mandarin (12), German (7), Latin (6), Hindi (2), and Czech, Haitian Creole, Hebrew, Japanese, Marathi, Polish and Thai (1 each).

¡Felicidades! Alles gute! 恭喜你！

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Blue skies are back. The orange haze and acrid smoke are gone.

But Charlie Scott is making sure we don’t forget.

The Staples High School junior — a talented photographer, videographer, runner and WWPT-FM sports announcer — has created a visual montage of the past few days.

And he’s picked an apt metaphor: “Blade Runner 2949.”

Click below for Charlie’s 53-second video. Let’s hope he does not have to make another.

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Kathie Motes Bennewitz and Robin Jaffee Frank are Westporters.

But the women — executive director of the Hopper House Museum & Study Center/Westport town arts curator and senior associate curator of American paintings and sculpture at the Yale University Art Gallery, respectively — cross the Hudson River next Thursday.

Frank will discuss “Social Distancing: Edward Hopper’s Paintings of Women Dining in Public” at the center in Nyack (June 15, 6 p.m.). She examines the artist’s “sexually and psychologically charged urban dining scenes, interpreted in the context of his life and art, and the larger history of women in American society.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

“Automat” (Edward Hopper, 1927)

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For the 4th year in a row, Church Lane is closed to vehicular traffic through the summer. It’s pedestrian-only, with outdoor dining and music.

Signs and barriers at Elm Street are pretty clear. But yesterday, one driver did not get the message:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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Former Westporter Frances Hyman died Thursday in Lynchburg, Virginia. She was 90.

The Roosevelt High School (Bronx) graduate met her future husband Leon through a mutual family acquaintance. They both loved classical ballet, and married in 1956.

They lived in Greenwich Village, Stamford and Sacramento, where Frances was a devoted member of Hadassah.

They returned to the East Coast in 1974 and lived in Westport for 45 years, until Leon died in 2019.

Frances led an active life here, volunteering for many causes including Save The Children , Dress For Success and the Stamford Arboretum. She loved Longshore, was an avid bridge player and gardener, and with her husband was a lifelong supporter of the New York City Ballet.

One of her proudest moments was participating in the 1987 “Freedom Sunday for Soviet Jews” rally in Washington.

Frances was also predeceased by her sisters Eleanor Feffer and Barbara Skydel. She is survived by her sons William (Sarah) of Manhattan, and Scott (Phoebe) of Lynchburg, and grandchildren Alexandra and Chloe Hyman of Manhattan, Samuel Hyman of Athens, Ohio, and Jonathan Hyman of Denver.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. tomorrow (Sunday, June 11) at Mount Hebron Cemetery in Flushing, New York. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. To send online condolences, click here.

Frances Hyman

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features man’s best friend — with a new friend, in the Coleytown woods.

(Photo/Julie Blume)

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

 (“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Contributions are tax-deductible. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Obituaries, Police, Sports, Staples HS

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Friday Flashback #351

Posted on June 9, 2023 | 10 comments

On November 9, 1974, a fire destroyed a block of stores and apartments in downtown Westport.

The blaze was spotted by a police officer in an upstairs apartment, around 6:30 p.m.

Firefighters contained it between Taylor Place and the entrance to the parking lot by the Saugatuck River. But the entire block, opposite the old library — now the building with Starbucks — was ruined.

The aftermath of the fire.

Klaff’s Lighting is at the right.

Klaff Lighting & Design was the major tenant. Other businesses included leather and shoe repair, a diner, and offices.

The buildings dated to the 1800s.

It was rebuilt, as it looks today. Klaff’s returned, but left in 2013. That space is now occupied by South Moon Under.

(“06880” looks at the Westport of yesterday every Friday — and at the Westport of today and tomorrow, every day. If you appreciate our work, please consider a donation. Just click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Friday Flashback, Local business

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