Tag Archives: Westport Fire Department

Roundup: Downtown Meeting, Well Water, Chartwells Food …

Posted on August 20, 2024 | 3 comments

The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee will hold a public meeting this Thursday (August 22, 8:30 a.m., Zoom).

The agenda item is: “To take such action as the meeting may determine, to review with the Director of Public Works the RFP submission for Public Engagement and the current in-progress RFP for Parking Structure Feasibility, and to make recommendations. This will be a work session of the DPIC, and no public comment will be taken.”

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Following recent rains, Mark Cooper — director of the Aspetuck Health District — notes that users of private wells that might have been flooded should evaluate their water before using.

Wells located in pits or low-lying areas subject to flooding, should be disinfected, then tested prior to consumption or use. Wells that are not tightly capped might be contaminated by sediment and flood water.

Do not assume that water from a flooded well is safe to drink. If there is any discoloration and/or odor coming from water out of a faucet, or flood waters overtopped the well casing, the well should be inspected by a professional to make sure there is no damage to the well casing or electrical wire going to the pump, prior to disinfection.

After disinfection, pump the water until it runs clear to get rid of any groundwater. Use a hose connected to an outside faucet so the flushed water flows to a nearby drainageway rather than into your septic system or public sewer.

For more information about the flooding of private wells and clean-up, click here.

Well, well, well …

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Chartwells — the Westport Public School’s food service provider — has raised the standard meal rates at all levels by 45 cents. The increase is due primarily to rising food costs.

The new rates are elementary schools, $2.90; middle schools, $3.15; high school, $3.25.

Elementary and middle school meal prices last changed in the 2015-16 school year. Staples’ last price increase was in 2013-14.

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Five new Westport Fire Department recruits will be sworn in tomorrow (Wednesday, August 21, 3 p.m., Town Hall auditorium): Peter Crosley, Kyle Sanzo, Ryan Colon, Lamont Bagley and Marco Monteiro.

The public is invited, to welcome them into the Westport Fire family.

New Westport firefighters. 

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Wreaths: They’re not just for Christmas.

Faith Sargent’s Wreathing for Community project brings people together through the art of giving.

The groups collects donations of high-quality faux florals, ribbons and other wreath-making materials from the local residents and businesses.

The materials are transformed into beautiful wreaths and decorative items like centerpieces. They’re donated to community members in Westport, and organizations in Fairfield County.

Those groups can use the wreaths for fundraising activities or as gifts to volunteers. Either way, it’s a cycle of giving that benefits both donors and recipients.

If you’d like to donate materials, or your organization would like a handmade wreath for a fundraising event, click here. Follow the instructions to join the Wreathing for Community group on Facebook.

You can also follow Wreathing for Community on social media.

Faith Sargent, with fall creations.

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Registration is now open for Wakeman Town Farm’s youth programs this fall. Ages range from infants to teens.

Offerings include Little Farmers, Curious Sprouts, Fantastic Farmhands, and a Green Teen Club.

Youngsters have fun learning about nature through organic gardening, crafting, seed-to-plate cooking classes, and interactive lessons — plus caring for chickens, alpacas, sheep and playful goats.

Spaces are available on a first-come first-served basis. Click here for details, and registration information.

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“06880” has chronicled Ben Casparius’ rise, from AAA Oklahoma City, to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ MLB team.

The 2017 Staples High School graduate and state champion baseball player joined the club in St. Louis on Sunday. Before the game, he was joined on the Busch Stadium field with his father Phil, mother Stacey and sister Cate.

Congrats, Ben. Here’s to a great career in the big leagues.

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Matt Murray spotted this unusual scene yesterday, at Compo’s South Beach.

It looks like quite a grilling session.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Recent weather kept most Westporters from the beach last weekend.

But Compo Beach gulls were as happy as clams, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows.

(Photo/Cynthia Nigro)

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And finally … following up on the need to check your well for contamination after all the recent rain:

 (“06880” is your hyper-local blog — your source for news, events, opinions, and much more, 24/7/365. We rely on reader support to do it all. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

 

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Posted in Beach, Children, Downtown, Education, Environment

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Roundup: Osprey Rescue, Addario Photos, “Showman” Show …

Posted on August 12, 2024 | 3 comments

Westport loves its ospreys.

One osprey loves Westport back.

Julie Loparo of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates posted a video on social media of yesterday’s team rescue.

An osprey became snared in a braided cotton line, on top of a piling off Saugatuck Shores.

A Fire Department crew from Engine Company 4 arrived, with a ladder. Lieutenant Joe Arnson held it, as Animal Control Officer Peter Reid climbed up to cut the line off the raptor’s talons.

Arnson then released the handsome bird, who flew off, once again free.

After the rescue, the line was removed from the piling.

Osprey rescue underway. (Screenshot courtesy of Julie Loparo)

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The September issue of The Atlantic features a compelling story.

“Seventy Miles in Hell” recounts the harrowing 70-mile journey that nearly a million people have made in the past several years through the Darién Gap, from Colombia into Panama.

Men women and children come from Haiti, Ethiopia, India, Congo, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and Venezuela, heading north across the only strip of land that connects South America to Central America, hoping they live long enough to reach the US.

Writer Caitlin Dickerson made the trek herself, accompanied by photographer Lynsey Addario.

Those photos — from the 1991 Staples High School graduate who has won both Pulitzer Prizes and a MacArthur “genius” grant — add immeasurably to Dickerson’s powerful prose.

Click here for the story. (Hat tip: Rosalie Wolf)

Migrants wait to board canoes, the next step in their journey. (Photo/Lynsey Addario, for The Atlantic)

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“The Greatest Showman” is being adapted for the stage.

The latest news from the songwriting team of Pasek & Paul — which includes Justin Paul, a 2003 Staples High School graduate — was highlighted at the D:23 fan festival in Anaheim.

The event included this video:

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Since COVID, many Westporters have discovered Sherwood Island.

(For those who haven’t: Connecticut’s first state park sits smack in the middle of our shoreline. It’s 238 acres of beaches, wetlands, woods, walking paths, a Nature Center — even a model airplane runway.)

Many Westporters also help keep the park shipshape, as volunteers with Friends of Sherwood Island.

They raise money in part through a great annual fundraiser. This year’s Shorefest is September 6 (6 to 9 p.m., Sherwood Island pavilion). It features dinner and a silent auction.

Dinner options include lobster, tenderloin, salmon or vegetarian, plus steamers, corn, salad and dessert ($100 before September 1; $120 after). A children’s menu ($15) includes hot dog or hamburger, corn, salad and dessert.

Click here for tickets, or send a check to Friends of Sherwood Island State Park, PO Box 544, Westport, CT 06881.

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Yesterday’s “Question Box” included this from David Squires: Where is the highest elevation in Westport?

I had always heard it’s Tower Ridge, next to the Aspetuck Health District and Westport Astronomical Society observatory on Bayberry Lane.

Nope.

Alert “06880” reader Chris Grimm found a website called “Peakbagger.” Its page of Connecticut Town High Points cites Westport’s “West Catamount Hill.”

For the record, it’s 284 feet (87 meters) above sea level.

West Catamount Hill (Topographical map courtesy of Peakbagger)

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“Remi’s Run for Parker’s Cure” is a colorful community event, for a great cause.

The morning of fun, fitness and philanthropy is set for Sunday, August 25 (10 a.m. to noon, PJ Romano Field track).

The color run is part of Remi Rutstein’s bat mitzvah project. It’s dedicated to her cousin Parker, who is battling a rare genetic brain disorder known as HIST1H1E.

Participants — grouped by age — will run or walk around the track, while being splashed with colorful, non-toxic powders. By the end of the run, everyone is a living rainbow.

The fun also includes breakfast from Lyfe Café, a candy truck, sports and games, tattoos, a DJ, and plenty of surprises.

Remi says the event is a way for Westporters to come together and celebrate Parker, raise awareness, and contribute to the search for a cure.

The event is free, but donations are welcome.  Click here to register, and for more information and contributions.

PS: Volunteers are welcome (and needed!). To help, email megan@westportmoms.com.

Remi Rutstein (right) and Parker.

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Pigeons are well known for living all over New York City.

But they like the suburbs too.

At the Westport Library a few days before leaving for college (in New York state), Jay Babina snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

It looks almost majestic.

(Photo/Jay Babina)

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And finally … in honor of the definitive answer to Westport’s highest point (story above):

(“06880” kicks off a new week, with another Roundup chock full of events, news you can use, and random factoids. If you enjoy this daily feature, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Media, Politics

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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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Posted in Beach, Police, Westport life

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Roundup: Fire Chief, Soundview Stroll, Pickleball …

Posted on July 3, 2024 | 3 comments

Congratulations to Nick Marsan!

Westport’s newest fire chief was officially sworn in Monday, at Town Hall.

The 17-year Westport Fire Department veteran has served in a number of roles. He also led the firefighters’ local union for 10 years.

Marsan — who is a nationally certified fire service instructor III and fire officer III — doubles as Westport’s emergency management director.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker swears in Fire Chief Nick Marsan. His family looks on. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)

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A sign on a house being renovated on Soundview Drive advertises the Summer Stroll. Sponsored by “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association, it will be — just like yesterday — a time to party on the beach exit road, without cars.

Mark July 28, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.: live music, kids’ activities, food and fun!

 (Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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The Compo Beach pickleball courts are still relatively new.

But they’re getting an upgrade:

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

Next up: the skate park?!

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The Westport Library begins its new fiscal year by welcoming 3 new board members.

Longtime member Pat Wieser starts her first full term as president. She stepped in for immediate past president Barrie Rosen earlier this year.

Bob Boroujerdi now serves as senior vice president, and Ben Chan as treasurer. Melissa Banks continues as secretary.

Other executive team members who return are finance chair Scott Bennewitz, new governance and nominations chair Martina Sze, and new development co-chairs Randy Herbertson and Mark Silverstein.

Stefano Pacifico and Sheila Ward roll off the board at the completion of their terms.

Joining the board for 2024-25 are attorney and community activist Sheri Gordon, leadership expert Kathleen Guion, and nonprofit executive and consultant Liza Van Gundy.

Westport Library board. Top row (from left): Ben Chan, Andrea Berkley, Peter Zakowich, Jay Norris, Bob Boroujerdi, Randy Herbertson, Jeremy Price, Scott Bennewitz. Bottom: Kathleen Guion, Andrew Wilk, Pat Wieser, Sheri Gordon, Melissa Banks, Martina Sze.

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If you wonder what sparked the idea for a Broadway musical, check out “They Made It a Musical” at the Westport Country Playhouse (4 performances, July 18- 20).

The show features anecdotes about the origins of recent hits (“Hamilton,” “Titanic”) and classics (“Fiddler on the Roof,” “Oklahoma!,” while a cast of six Broadway performers celebrate the legendary songs.

Creator/director Laurence Maslon is a Broadway historian. For more information and tickets, click here.

“Oklahoma!”‘s route to Broadway began with this show, at the Westport Country Playhouse.

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These wild animals in front of the Furniture on Consignment II store next to Bar Lupa are not exactly “Westport … Naturally” material.

But the flowers are.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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And finally … on this date in 1890, Idaho was admitted as the 43rd US state.

(Whether you live now in Westport, Idaho, or anywhere else: If you have a connection here, then “06880” is your online home. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Library, Westport Country Playhouse

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“06880” Podcast: Nick Marsan

Posted on June 18, 2024 | 1 comment

On July 1, Nick Marsan becomes Westport’s new fire chief.

A member of the Fire Department since 2007, he is also a nationally certified fire service instructor. He has won 2 Westport Rotary Public Safety Awards, and several other commendations.

Nick is a veteran of the US Army and Connecticut Army National Guard. He received the Army Commendation Medal for Valor for his actions in Afghanistan.

The other day, our soon-to-be chief and I chatted at the Westport Library’s Verso Studios. It was a fascinating conversation, ranging from his route to firefighting (after earning a degree in history)m, and what makes our town’s department special, to his dual role as town emergency management director, and his take on the Westport many of us never see.

Click below, for this intriguing interview:

 

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Roundup: Cooling Stations, Shonda Rhimes, Charlie Scott …

Posted on June 18, 2024 | 4 comments

With temperatures expected to push past 90 all week, Governor Lamont has activated Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol. It’s in effect through noon on Sunday.

Several cooling centers are open in Westport:

  • Senior Center (21 Imperial Avenue): Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • MoCA CT (19 Newtown Turnpike): Thursday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.
  • Westport Library (20 Jesup Road): Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
  • Westport Weston Family YMCA (14 Allen Raymond Lane): Tuesday through Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Westport Museum for History & Culture (25 Avery Place): Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Speaking of heat: The Westport Library was the hot place to be last night.

Shonda Rhimes introduced — and showed — her film, “Black Barbie.”

The award-winning producer, Shondaland visionary and Westport resident then took questions from the of-course-SRO audience.

“Black Barbie” debuts on Netflix this Wednesday (Juneteenth). It tells the story of the 3 Black women at Mattel who were determined to create a doll that looked like them, and the impact that had on the Barbie brand.

Among her most memorable lines, regarding Black dolls and representation: “You cannot be what you cannot see.”

Shonda Rhimes (right), in conversation with Bernicestine McLeod Bailey at the Westport Library. (Photo/Stephanie Mastocciolo)

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Oyster harvesting is back on Sherwood Mill Pond.

This was the busy action yesterday:

(Photo/William Weiss)

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Chris Wood writes: “Sadly, I heard that the ‘white barn’ at Sherwood Island State Park will be demolished.

“I spent many years working in and around it in the 1960s and ’70s. I even lived in it one summer.

“It is believed to be the former stables for the Sherwood estate — just down from the ‘stone barn,’ which was the carriage barn.”

Sherwood Island “white barn.” (Photo/Chris Wood)

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Charlie Scott is a Staples High School legend.

During his 4 years, the recently graduated senior played soccer, ran cross country and track, and announced dozens of athletic contests on WWPT-FM.

But he is best known for his videos.

Charlie shot them himself (sometimes via drone). Then he edited them into highlight reels, for games and entire seasons. He posted them as game-day previews. He flooded social media with his “Charlie 33 Prod” productions.

Before he heads of to Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Communications — where he will take his prodigious talent to even higher stratospheres — Charlie posted one last reel.

He prefaced it in his typically humble fashion: “Thank you Staples Athletics for an incredible 2 years of filming games. My edits are only as good as the players that are in them, so I truly couldn’t have done it without my fellow Wreckers.”

Congratulations, and thank you, Charlie. And now, “06880”: Click below, to enjoy the show!

 

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Speaking of sports: Kyle Martino is a Big Name in the soccer world.

In 1999, the Staples High School star was named Gatorade National Player of the Year.

He went on to play in MLS for Columbus and Chicago, then with the US national team. He was an analyst for the Premier League on NBC Sports, and now covers the national teams for Turner Sports.

He ran for US Soccer president, developed an innovative goal that turns basketball courts into small-sided fields, and has reached out to underserved communities through the Over Under Initiative.

His entire career has been about connecting people through the game he loves.

Martino’s newest venture is No One Home. Begun as a pop-up for the 2022 and ’23 men’s and women’s World Cups, and now remodeled, it’s now hidden in plain sight behind a row of avocado distributors at 141 Chrystie Street in Manhattan’s historic Bowery district

No One Home is a soccer and social club. The ground floor features a large theater-style viewing area, with a massive 172-inch LED screen.

The second floor is a high-end membership lounge for New York’s most passionate soccer fans.

Martino’s goal (ho ho) is to unite the soccer, fashion, art, food and drink communities through a shared love of the sport and culture.

The official opening is Thursday (June 20), with 3 big matches: The European Championship’s Denmark vs. England (noon) and Spain vs. Italy (3 p.m.), followed by Copa América’s Argentina vs. Canada (8 p.m.).

Click here for more information, and reservations. Click here for the Instagram (@noonehome141).

Kyle Martino (far right) at his pop-up, as fans watched the 2022 World Cup (left).

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Here’s another great idea.

Content Studio is a cool new — well, concept and studio, for podcasts and more — in the former quick mart at 20 Saugatuck Avenue (next to the Goddard School, and opposite Dunville’s).

This Wednesday (June 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.), Jay Norris hosts a preview. There will be light bites, networking, and — because of the date — a chance to learn a bit more about Juneteenth.

Click here to RSVP. The deadline is 5 p.m. today (Tuesday).

Jay Norris at Content Studio.

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The public is invited to the promotion ceremony of Nick Marsan.

Westport’s deputy fire chief is officially installed as Fire Department chief on Monday, July 1 (3:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

Soon-to-be Fire Chief Nick Marsan.

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Happy Pollinator Week!

Aspetuck Land Trust celebrates this Friday (June 21, noon; Zoom) with a “Lunch & Learn.” The topic is how to grow pollinator gardens in containers anywhere.

Kim Eierman will discuss the best choices of pollinator-friendly native plants that grow in containers, and the important pollinators — butterflies, beneficial insects, hummingbirds and more — they support.

Members are free; non-members pay $10. For more details and to register, click here.

Busy-as-a-bee pollinator.

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Wakeman Town Farm’s Family Fun Day returns July 13.

The biggest summer event offers kids’ farm crafts and games; visits with the animals; a scavenger hunt, and bubble show; music, and fun summer foods.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Laura Von Stein — an actor, comedian, 1-woman entertainer and 1983 Staples High School graduate — died peacefully on May 11 in Ridgefield, after a brief battle with colon cancer. She was 58.

Laura was part of Staples Players. She graduated Phi Kappa Phi from the University of Bridgeport, where she received a performing arts scholarship. Laura also studied classical acting at Marymount International School under the auspices of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.

Laura was a member of Actors’ Equity. Her patient waits at stage doors helped her build an impressive collection of signed Playbills.

Laura also accumulated an impressive library, largely from the annual Pequot Library book sale.

She is survived by her mother, Eleanor Von Stein of Westport and Trumbull; brother Robert Von Stein (Linda Guliuzza) of Trumbull and Massachusetts; nephews Rob (Molly) of Massachusetts, Mike (Laura) of Rhode Island and Scott (Paul) of Massachusetts, and many cousins. Laura was predeceased by her father Robert in 2019.

Laura is also survived by her extended family, including Roger Wolfe; Christine O’Leary; Duane, Gayle, Mike and Stephen Lovello; Jill Lovello and Charlie Sullivan, Christine Lovello, and Tom, Susan, Matt, Sam and Rae Iacovacci, along with many friends from the comedy and theater world.

Laura’s wish is for everyone to support theaters, encourage actors of all ages to keep going, read a good book and enjoy a movie with lots of popcorn. Laura’s life will be celebrated at 5 p.m. on September 15 at The Ridgefield Playhouse.

Laura Von Stein

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The water is still a bit chilly.

But  — as this “Westport … Naturally” photo shows — that doesn’t stop at least one swimmer.

And one dog paddler.

(Photo/Jim Hood)

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And finally … Mark James — described by the New York Times as “a genre-defying, Grammy Award-winning songwriter,” died on Saturday in Nashville. He was 83. Click here for a full obituary.

Among his works:

(Sure, it will be hot this week. But “06880” is the coolest place around. If you enjoy being part of our online community, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Obituaries, Sports, Staples HS, Weather

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Roundup: Community Gardens, Wakeman Field, RTM Vote …

Posted on June 4, 2024 | 4 comments

Gardeners, dog walkers and parents of schoolchildren — some of whom fit in more than one of those categories — await tonight’s Representative Town Meeting agenda item #7 (Tuesday, June 4, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

Last month, the Board of Selectwomen approved a request by the Parks & Recreation Department to close all school grounds to anyone not a “student, staff member or invited guest” between 7:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m., whenever school is in session.

Tonight, the RTM will vote on a petition “to review, discuss and reject the new Parks & Recreation regulation, or modify it in order to preserve the gardening hours at the Westport Community Garden to their prior hours during school days (i.e. no gardening between 8-9 a.m. and 3-4 p.m.).”

The prohibition is currently in effect, though apparently it has not been enforced due to the pending petition.

Wakeman Field — adjacent to Bedford Middle School — is part of the ban. It was not included for an exemption in the petition before the RTM.

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When a section of Winslow Park off Compo Road North was handed to contractors, as a staging area for sewer work nearby, many folks feared the worst.

Industrial fencing went up. Gravel covered the grass. Paradise wasn’t exactly paved over, but — despite promises to the contrary — it sure seemed like it would never be back the way it was.

A year later, that area is as good as new.

If not better.

The fencing is gone. Gravel was trucked away. Grass grew back quickly. You’d never know the difference.

Thanks to Westport’s Public Works Department, and all others who made sure the contractors lived up to their promise.

Let’s hope the new sewers are in equally good shape.

New grass at Winslow Park’s former staging area. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of which: One reason to avoid Whitney Street is … sewer work.

Next on the agenda: new sidewalks.

In the meantime: Avoid this very tempting shortcut between Roseville Road and downtown.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And speaking again of Winslow Park: A memorial service for Johnny Barnett — called by some its “mayor” — will be held there Sunday (June 9, 10 a.m.). See the map below for the exact location.

This Sunday is also Barnett’s birthday.

Guests should bring folding chairs. There will be acoustic music from the Barnett children, and an informal reception after the memorial.

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Staples Tuition Grants does 2 things very well.

It raises money. Then it gives it away.

STG celebrated its 81st year last night at the high school auditorium. The organization awarded $380,000 in scholarships to 104 graduating seniors and students already in college.

The money goes to students with demonstrated financial need. Over 400 people donated to the general fund this year, or to named or endowed awards that honor Staples’ history — and support its future.

To learn more about Staples Tuition Grants, click here.

Some of the STG recipients, in the Staples courtyard. (Photo/Pam Einarsen)

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After 23 years as director of the Westport Weston Cooperative Nursery School — and 34 total years — Pat Rackliffe is retiring.

The Co-op was founded in 1955 by parents to provide a strong, supportive environment for their children’s early education. Pat exemplified that mission, through a strong sense of community with the students, staff, and parents.

Meanwhile, new director of education Libby Gustafson began June 1. She knows The Co-op well, having served as a junior counselor at age 14.

She later returned as a teacher, parent, contributor to the parent education series, and accreditation consultant.

But that’s not all. Pat Racklifee is Libby Gustafson’s mother!

Pat will be honored for her contributions this Friday (June 7). Email info@westportwestoncoop.org), or call 203-227-9318 for details.

Pat Rackliffe (right) and Libby Gustafson

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Westport educators Lauren Francese and Anthony Battaglia have been honored for their commitment to excellence in social studies.

The awards were given by the Connecticut Council for the Social Studies.

Francese — the Westport Public Schools’ social studies coordinator — welcomed attendees at the annual meeting. She and several colleagues received an award for helping develop Connecticut’s new social studies standards.

Battaglia won the Pre-Service Excellence in Social Studies Education award, for exceptional student teachers. A pre-service teacher from the University of Bridgeport, he recently completed his student teaching in 8th grade at Coleytown Middle School.

Anthony Battaglia and Lauren Francese

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At Staples, from which she graduated in 2010, Caroline Goldstein was very active in the school paper Inklings.

Her sophomore and senior year English teacher Gus Young inspired her love for writing through an independent study, and encouraged her to apply to a summer program at Simon’s Rock.

That led to her study of creative writing as an undergrad at New York University, where she also earned a master’s of fine arts.

It all paid off. The writer — who now goes by Caroline Wolff — just published her first book.

Amazon says of “The Wayside”:

When Kate Cleary’s son, Jake, dies at his elite liberal arts college, she refuses to believe it was suicide. Something sinister is at play, and Kate becomes determined to retrace Jake’s steps during his final days. Descending into a spiral of obsession as she finds herself up against unknown forces at every turn, Kate falls further into a dangerous mystery that brings her closer to a terrifying truth even Jake himself wanted to keep hidden.

Combining elements of dark academia and domestic fiction with a modern twist, “The Wayside” is a sharply observed story of suspense, devotion, and the secrets we keep from those who love us most.

Click here for more information, and to order. (Hat tip: Jessica Isaacs)

Caroline Wolff

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The Westport Fire Department responded to an outdoor structure fire next to a Burnham Hill residence just before midnight..

There were no injuries. The incident is being investigated by the Westport Fire Marshal’s office. The WFD was assisted by Westport Police and Volunteer Emergency Medical Service.

Burnham Hill fire (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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Azerbaijan may not be the jazz capital of the world.

But Amina Figarova rose from her youth behind the Iron Curtain to become of the most celebrated pianists and composers on the international jazz scene.

This Thursday (June 6, 7:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399), she makes her debut Jazz at the Post appearance.

She’s joined by flutist Bart Platteau, bassist Will Goble, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Tickets are $20 for the music; $15 for veterans and students. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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Mary Lou Denke Rotella died last Wednesday, with her family by her side. She was 73.

The Saugatuck native and Staples High School graduate lived in Westport for most of her life.

She met her husband of 53 years, Angelo Rotella, through close friends.

She raised 3 children, while taking care of her parents and mother-in-law.

Mary Lee worked as a certified nursing assistant at a convalescent home, and in the Coleytown Elementary School cafeteria. In her spare time, she loved to bake, dance, fish and garden. Mary Lee was adamant about cutting her own grass and weed-whacking, and did her own lawn care until shortly before she died.

Her family says,, “Mary Lee’s favorite thing was to bring people together, and make others happy and feel cared for. We can only aspire to have a fraction of her energy, strength, and love for others.”

Mary Lee is survived by her children Dawn, Angelo Jr. (Natasha); and Lisa (Christian); grandchildren Brianna, Paddy, Darragh, Isabelle and Angelo III, and siblings Frank Denke Jr. and Pamela Fortner. She was predeceased by her husband, and brothers John, Merritt (Bobby) and Donald Denke.

Calling hours are at Harding Funeral Home on Thursday (June 6, 4 to 7 p.m.). Mass will be held Friday (June 7, 11 a.m., Assumption Church).

Mary Lee Rotella

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It’s peony season!

And Pat Saunders sends this perfect specimen to “06880,” for our “Westport … Naturally” daily feature.

(Photo/Pat Saunders)

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And finally … On this date in 1919, Congress approved the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. The measure — guaranteeing suffrage to women — went next  to the 48 U.S. states for ratification.

(From the Community Gardens, Wakeman Field and Winslow Park to Broadway and Azerbaijan, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Fireworks Tickets, Car Fire, Special Olympics Torch …

Posted on May 31, 2024 | 11 comments

The Independence Day fireworks are coming soon.

And tickets are available now.

The annual event — organized by the Westport Police Athletic League and Parks & Recreation Department, and sponsored once again by longtime Westport residents/Staples High School graduates Melissa and Doug Bernstein — is Tuesday, July 2.

Tickets to the fireworks — shot from a barge in Long Island Sound, and the culmination of a day of picnics, parties and fun all along Compo Beach — are available in the front lobbies of both the Westport Police Department on Jesup Road, and the Parks & Rec Office in Longshore Club Park, near the first tee.

Tickets ($50 per car) allow entrance into the Compo parking lots. They are on sale 24/7 at the police station now, and during business hours at Parks & Rec (starting June 1). All sales are cash or check; no credit cards.

Proceeds from the fireworks help fund PAL operating expenses. The organization serves thousands of youngsters each year, through sports programs and scholarships. PAL also runs the ice skating rink at Longshore.

Doug Bernstein (5th from left) hands Police Chief Foti Koskinas the ceremonial first fireworks ticket yesterday. Also on hand (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)

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This afternoon (Friday), Westport Police officers will carry the Flame of Hope through town, in support of Special Olympics of Connecticut.

Norwalk Police will hand off the Flame at the Westport/Norwalk town line on Route 1 (Post Road West) at approximately 12:00 p.m.

Westport officers will carry the torch along the Post Road, and pass it off to Fairfield police at the Fairfield border.

Police will escort the torch through town. Residents are encouraged to watch and support this great cause.

The Special Olympics torch run last year: Post Road at the Sherwood Island Connector. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Dunville’s — the 40-plus-year-old hangout in the heart of Saugatuck — celebrated its grand re-opening last night.

The restaurant/bar is now called Little Pub @ Dunville’s. Doug Grabe — the owner of the local chain — is keeping the name and vibe of the well-loved local institution. It’s open 7 days a week, for lunch and dinner.

Cutting the ceremonial ribbon (actually a caution tape) last night, from row from left: RTM member Sal Liccione, Planning & Zoning chair Paul Lebowitz, selectwomen Jen Tooke and Candice Savin, State Senator Ceci Maher, RTM member Matthew Mandell, owner Doug Grabe. Rear: RTM member Andrew Colabella, State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, RTM member Andrew Bloom.

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As graduation nears, every night brings a different celebration.

All are special. But the High Honors dinner at Staples last night was particularly meaningful.

Twenty students — the top 4% of the Class of 2024 — were honored for their achievements.

Each invited one teacher or counselor. Each educator spoke for a few minutes about “their” student.

Bonds between the teachers and teenagers were strong and deep. A wide variety of disciplines was represented: English, social studies, science, math and music.

There were stories of STEM students who found loves for literature and government; of conversations about life before and after school that transcended classrooms; of challenges made and surpassed.

Each student thanked their teachers — and their parents — for getting them where they are today.

There are many reasons to be fearful about the future of our world. Last night offered 21 reasons to be very, very optimistic.

The High Honors students were Kathryn Asiel, Emerson Briggs, Coco Crombie, Gabriela de Brito, Eitan Eiger, Dylan Fiore, Peter Loranger, Defne Merih, Neva Mermagen, Connor Ng, Ellen Ou, Mabel Propper, Jeremy Rosenkranz, Jameson Russell, Kaitlyn Seo, Elizabeth Turner, Darren Weng, Gabriel Weng, valedictorian Leigh Foran and salutatorian Andrew Berkowitz.

The teachers and staff members they honored were Rasha Tarek, Will Jones, Deborah Slocum, Noreen McGoldrick, Robert Shamberg, Alexandra McHale, Michael Mezzo, Maxim Kolb, Heather Wirkus, Ann Neary, Jon Shepro, Dominick Messina, Heather Colletti-Houde, Joe Barahona and Brian Tippy.

Staples High School’s 2024 High Honors graduates-to-be.

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The Westport Fire Department responded to a car fire on Long Lots Road at 5:45 p.m. last night.

Firefighters quickly extinguished the fully engulfed vehicle.

The fire is under investigation by the the fire marshal’s office. There were no injuries.

Scenes from yesterday’s car fire. (Photos courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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That wasn’t the only action for the Fire Department last night.

Tyler Errickson writes: “This was my son Oliver’s 3rd birthday. He loves fire trucks.

“I asked the team at Westport Fire headquarters if they would show us around. They did not hesitate — and gave both my boys a day to remember

“I want to thank the entire team at the fire station, and remind everyone how lucky we are to live in this community.”

The Errickson family, at Fire headquarters.

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A friend of a Westport teacher is fostering a 2-year-old dog named Cricket.

Unfortunately, they can no longer care for her. If they do not find anyone to adopt her, she will have to go back to a shelter.

Cricket is well behaved, spayed, and up to date with all vaccinations. “06880” readers interested in learning more should call 203-805-2437.

Cricket

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Sorelle Gallery’s new exhibition, “Summer Crush,” showcases original paintings by artists who draw inspiration from water and the coast in a wide variety of styles, from abstract to hyper-realistic.  

The exhibition opens on June 15, 2024, with a reception from 2-4 p.m.

An artists’ talk and Q-and-A at 2:30 features Julia Contacessi, Kelly Rossetti, Nealy Hauschildt and Tony Iadicicco. Light refreshments with a summer rosé will be served.

The show runs through July 6. For more information, click here.

“Summer Crush” at Sorelle Gallery.

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Carl Addison Swanson has seen plenty of violations of this rule.

He reminds “06880” readers: If you raise your hand to traffic at a crosswalk, you have the right of the way.

Drivers: Stop for pedestrians who raise their hands at crosswalks.

But pedestrians: Look both ways, to make sure those drivers have stopped!

Stop for pedestrians!

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Have you seen today’s “Westport … Naturally” deer?

Richard Fogel has. And, he says of this one — seen here at the corner of East Main Street and Whitney Road Extension — it is “a family pet. Crazy. You can walk up and touch it.”

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … today is the final day of National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month.

(“06880” is your place for hyper-local news, 24/7/365. Every day, we rely on reader support. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

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Westport’s New Fire Chief: A Familiar Face

Posted on May 20, 2024 | 5 comments

Westport searched widely for a new fire chief.

But after nearly a year, the right candidate was right here in town.

Deputy Chief Nick Marsan will take over as Westport Fire Department’s chief on July 1, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker announced this afternoon.

He takes over from Mark Amatrudo, who has been interim fire chief since July 1, 2023.

Marsan has been a member of the Westport Fire Department since 2007. In addition to his current role as deputy chief, he also serves as the town’s emergency management director.

He has extensive experience in emergency operations, fire safety and public administration. He began his career as a professional firefighter assigned to Platoon 3, after graduating from the Connecticut Fire Academy Class #41.

Fire Chief Nick Marsan

Marsan served as a firefighter for 9 years before promotions, first to fire inspector. then to engine company lieutenant, stationed primarily in Saugatuck.

A state-certified fire marshal and emergency medical technician, Marsan also holds national fire service certifications.

He is the recipient of 2 Westport Rotary Public Protection & Safety Awards, and several department awards including 3 unit citations, the John H. Gallagher Award for outstanding service, and the Turker Aksoy Award for outstanding patient care.

Marsan has also served Norwalk and Darien as a fire inspector, and is a fire instructor for the New York Office of Fire Prevention and Control.

For 10 years, he was the elected president of the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Association Local 1081.

Marsan is a veteran of the US Army and the CT Army National Guard. He deployed to Afghanistan in 2010, and earned an Army Commendation Medal for Valor for his actions there.

Marson holds 2 master’s degrees. One is in history from Western Connecticut State University. The other is in public administration and emergency management from Sacred Heart University.

He recently completed the National Fire Service Staff and Command Course in Annapolis, Maryland.

“I am excited to lead the men and women of the Westport Fire Department,” Marsan says.

“I am honored by the trust placed in me and I look forward to continuing our department’s dedication to outstanding service to the residents and guests of the Town of Westport.”

Tooker adds, “Nick has the proven ability and expertise to seamlessly and effectively take over the role as chief.

“He has a breadth of knowledge, skill, experience, and understanding that will ensure that the current high standards of safety and efficiency will be maintained in the Westport Fire Department. I have every confidence that he will flourish and excel in this leadership role.”

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Roundup: Wakeman Fields, Traffic Survey, Redi-Cut Carpets …

Posted on May 9, 2024 | 11 comments

What works for Long Lots Elementary School must also work for Bedford Middle School.

Put another way: What’s good for the Westport Community Gardens is also good for Wakeman Park.

The Board of Selectwomen affirmed yesterday that no one — including dog walkers and regular human walkers — will be allowed on the athletic fields and paths adjacent to BMS during school hours.

The ban does not apply to Wakeman Town Farm.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas and Parks & Recreation director Jen Fava were unable to find a way to keep the large Wakeman Field property safe, the selectwomen were told at their meeting yesterday.

The board had voted on the ban — which was first suggested as a safety issue for Long Lots, which is located near the Community Gardens — last month.

Yesterday’s discussion followed that earlier vote, which included a sense of the meeting resolution to examine the possibility of a solution for Wakeman.

The Wakeman Fields, adjacent to Bedford Middle School (not shown, off to the left of the photo) will be off-limits to non-school personnel during school hours. 

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Everyone talks about traffic and safety.

Now you can spur some action.

But after more than 3 months, you’ve only got one day left. The deadline is tomorrow (Friday, May 10).

An online map-based survey was introduced this winter. It’s an interactive, even fun (!) way for residents to provide feedback on Westport’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan project.

Users easily zoom in on a particular place in town. The map has 3 options to drop a pin, and offer feedback: “Safety Concern”; “Safety/Improvement Idea”; “Good Example.” There’s a chance too to like a previous comment (and see how many other residents agree).

Click here to take the survey. Click here for the “Traffic & Pedestrian Safety” page on the town website.

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If you’ve driven past the former Pane e Bene restaurant on the Post Road, you’ve noticed plenty of construction.

Work on The Clubhouse — the golf-and-more simulator/event space — is moving ahead. It should open later this year.

You may also think that Redi-Cut — the longtime family business next door — is closed.

They’re not.

Though they were shut for a couple of weeks for renovations, they’re very much open.

“They’ve been amazing partners as our project moves forward,” says Clubhouse co-founder Emily Zobl. She invites customers — old and new — to check out their updated space.

Meanwhile, you can check out The Clubhouse’s progress via Instagram and their website.

Redi-Cut Carpets: Open for business. Tim Zobl (The Clubhouse co-owner, center) is flanked by Redi-Cut owners (from left) Harry Arnowich and Matt Arnowich.

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The Public Works Department’s spring paving program begins Monday (May 13). It continues through the mid-June.

These roads will be paved, though not necessarily in this order:

  • Brookside Drive
  • Evergreen Avenue
  • Evergreen Parkway
  • Kings Highway North
  • Crawford Road
  • Hillandale Lane
  • East Main Street
  • Rainey Lane
  • Pioneer Road
  • Maple Avenue South
  • Greenbrier Road
  • Church Street North
  • Pleasant Valley Lane
  • Brightfield Lane
  • Imperial Avenue
  • Green’s Farms Road
  • Morningside Drive North

Questions? Call Public Works: 203-341-1120.

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between May 1 and 8.

A 62-year-old Bridgeport man was arrested for breach of peace, following an altercation with an employee at Minuteman Cleaners over the price charged. The man grabbed the items, causing minor injuries to the employee, and left the store.

A 25-year-old Westport woman was arrested on failure to appear, and violation of probation. She was unable to post a $30,000 bond.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 8 citations
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 7
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
  • Failure to renew registration: 3
  • Criminal trespass: 1
  • Simple trespass: 1
  • Criminal mischief: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Unsafe passing: 1
  • Improper turns: 1
  • Driving with a foreign license: 1
  • Falsification of markers: 1
  • Unreadable plates: 1
  • Failure to register a commercial motor vehicle: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Failure to carry registration: 1

There were 2 license plate violations this past week. This was not one of them. (Photo/Fred Cantor)

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The Westport Fire Department hosts a promotion ceremony tomorrow (Friday, May 10, 3:30 p.m, Town Hall auditorium).

Assistant chief Matthew Cohen will be promoted to deputy fire chief; Lieutenant Jason Kronenberger moves to to assistant chief, while Firefighter Matthew Wille becomes a lieutenant.

The public is invited.

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Explore the horticulture, beauty and bounty of rhododendrons on May 19 (10:30 to 11:45 a.m., Carriage Barn Art Center, New Canaan) — then tour the magnificent gardens at Blau House, off Bayberry Lane in Westport (1 to 4 p.m.).

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Rhododendrons, at Blau House & Gardens.

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After receiving critical acclaim in Europe, “Here Lived”‘s May 5 debut screening quickly sold out. An encore show has been added, on May 21 (7 p.m., Marlene Meyerson JCC, 334 Amsterdam Avenue, New York City).

Music by Brian Keane — the Grammy Award-winning composer/Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate — adds depth to the film, which is a story of children hidden during World War II, murdered parents, generational trauma, and an artist’s vision for healing.

Keane and director Jane Wells will join a panel after the showing. Click here for tickets.

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Was Officer Richard Bagley protecting and serving yesterday?

Or citing this guy for jaywalking?

Either way, the Westport Police Department was taking care of business, on Hillandale Road.

(Photo/Miggs Burroughs)

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Speaking of turtles: Today’s “Westport … Naturally” Westport nature lesson comes from Compo Beach.

Lou Weinberg writes: “I found this little guy yesterday. I’m sure there’s more where he/she came from. So, if you’re at the beach and something looks like a stone, look twice. It might be a diamondback terrapin baby. Place it in the water and let it go.

“It’s amazing that with all the beach maintenance and use, these creatures can survive around here. Ain’t nature grand?”

Lou adds this link, for information and fun facts from the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

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And finally … happy 75th birthday to Billy Joel! There are only hundreds of songs I could choose to highlight. Here are 3 of my favorites:

(Another day, another “06880” Roundup, another reminder that we rely on reader support to keep doing what we do. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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