Tag Archives: Westport Fire Department

Roundup: Tennis & Pickleball, Free Saplings, House Fire …

Posted on April 18, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Tennis & Pickleball, Free Saplings, House Fire …

This week’s spring weather has Westporters ready to play outdoors — the 1% who were still in town anyway, during the schools’ annual spring break.

Those who headed to the Doubleday tennis courts behind Saugatuck Elementary, or the pickleball courts at Compo Beach, were disappointed. Both facilities were closed.

Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department explains:

“Due to the weather over the winter, with large fluctuations of cold and warm temperatures and little snow to insulate the court surface, the Doubleday courts sustained damage beyond what was anticipated. The damage consists of cracks, as well as shifting, lifting, and bunching of material used in prior crack repairs.”

Due to the safety risk, those courts were closed. Nighttime temperatures are still too cold for repairs.

With other tennis courts in the area in a similar situation, companies are booked until late July.

A rough estimate to repair the cracks is $55,000 — and they “would not be expected to last much beyond this fall,” Parks & Rec officials say.

They’ve moved the replacement of the Doubleday courts up a year, in their capital plan.

The new courts will be built with post-tension concrete. They typically last over 20 years without the need for crack repair.

The department is working on the bid document. They hope to begin construction in late summer or early fall.

The Compo pickleball courts, meanwhile, are being redone with all new asphalt, net posts, nets and painting.

The asphalt will need to cure for 28 days, then painted with temporary lines. Opening day is set for around Memorial Day.

“We understand this will be an inconvenience,” Parks & Rec says.

“But believe we are taking the most fiscally responsible path forward, with a result that will be beneficial to all court users.”

Doubleday tennis courts, and PJ Romano Field.

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Happy Arbor Day!

The Westport Tree Board will hand out free saplings on Friday April 26 (3 to 5 p.m., Town Hall rear parking lot).

We’ve lost so many trees recently, to new construction, storms and simple old age. This is welcome news indeed.

In 2014, a cherry tree was planted in front of Town Hall. Saplings will be given away there on April 26.

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Yesterday morning, the Westport Fire Department responded to a structure fire on Hunt Club Lane, off Maple Avenue North.

Responding units found a 2-story home with heavy smoke coming from 3 sides, with evidence of a possible explosion from inside.

Two injured occupants had already gotten out of the home.

Firefighters contained the blaze to the basement, but heavy smoke filled the home.

The building was ventilated and monitored for carbon monoxide.

Westport Police and EMS treated and transported the 2 occupants to the hospital, with unknown injuries.

Assistance from Wilton, Fairfield and Norwalk Fire Departments allowed simultaneous calls to be handled while Westport units were on scene. The last WFD unit cleared the scene at 1:30 p.m.

The fire is under investigation by the Westport Fire Marshal’s office.

Hunt Club Lane fire. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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In the latest chocolate news, Le Rouge by Aarti is Connecticut’s representative on EatThisNotThat.com’s list of “The Best Chocolate Cake in Every State.”

It says:

Aarti Khosla created Cafe Le Rouge in Westport to blend the flavors of her home country of India with chocolate. Her website says she wanted to “capture the flavors from around the world in the divine language of chocolate.”

Her Kentucky Bourbon Chocolate Ganache cake speaks that language well. The chocolatier modeled this cake after a popular truffle, rich, chocolatey, and infused with Kentucky bourbon.

Click here for the 49 other best chocolate cakes.

Aarti’s best-in-state cake.

Mashed followed up with another honor: a mention in “The Absolute Best Chocolate Cakes in America, According to Foodies.”

Here’s that writeup:

Le Rouge Chocolates by Aarti may be in Connecticut, but they sure know their Kentucky bourbon, as evidenced by the fact that the shop’s Kentucky bourbon truffles are their most-ordered truffle variety. So, on the heels of that success, Le Rouge Chocolates by Aarti baked up a ganache cake infused with the same Kentucky bourbon.

Made with white chocolate or dark chocolate ganache (although they recommend the white chocolate), the $45-$65 cake can also be adorned with pecans. However, you’ll have to make a trip to the Constitution State to get it, since it can’t be shipped like some of the shop’s other products.

And if you make your own chocolate ganache at home and you can’t understand why it’s not coming out right, this may be why your chocolate ganache’s texture is off.

Baker and founder Aarti Khosla makes all of her desserts in small batches to ensure quality, and she also hand-paints and hand-decorates them, so you know your Kentucky Bourbon Chocolate Ganache Cake is one that’s made with love. Plus, she only uses fair-trade dark chocolate, so you know it’s ethical, too.

Click here for the rest of that story.

But wait! There’s more!

On Tuesday, Congressman Jim Himes informed Aarti that, as part of his recognition of Women’s History Month, she’d been nominated as a female leader.

Himes called her Aarti “a role model, source of inspiration, and an integral part of the community.”

To learn more about Aarti (and her Le Rouge chocolate shop), click here.

Aarti Khosla

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between April 10 and 17.

A 26-year-old Stamford woman was arrest for larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny, after a fraudulent check was deposited into a First County Bank account, and funds were then withdrawn from it. An alleged co-conspirator had already been arrested for the same incident.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Speeding: 6 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 6
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 2
  • Driving while texting: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle to endanger an occupant: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Illegal passing on the right: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Violation of license class: 1

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The Westport Library’s spring book sale returns Friday, May 17. The always-jammed event runs through Monday, May 20.

It includes thousands of “gently used” books for children and adults in over 50 categories of non-fiction and fiction, plus vinyl, CDs, movie and television DVDs, and more.

Of special interest:

  • A large collection of philosophy books from the library of a retired professor, along with books on Eastern and Native American spirituality,
  • An extensive collection of history books, especially military history, with many very scarce titles. The focus on World War II encompasses illustrated studies of aircraft, weaponry, ships and combat vehicles.
  • A large assortment of framed artwork, from small desktop pieces to large wall ones.
  • A huge assortment of jigsaw puzzles.
  • A small number of laser videodiscs ($3 to $5).
  • The “Fiction for $1” room: hardcover fiction, mystery, science fiction, fantasy books, young adult, plus paperback novels.

Click here for hours, and more information.

A small part of the large Westport Library book sale. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Every Thursday is special at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399: It’s “Jazz at the Post,” with an all-star selection of great musicians.

But May 9 is extra special. That’s JazzFC’s annual “Blow-Out Bash” fundraiser. Over 20 stellar performers are already confirmed. The show runs from 7 to 11 p.m.

Paul Bollenback, Michael Mossman, Melissa Newman, Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall, Janice Friedman head the long list. Bridgeport’s Keys Music Jazz Ensemble opens the concert.

All proceeds benefit JazzFC’s educational clinics for students from Westport to Bridgeport, the JazzFC Scholarship Fund, outreach concerts to seniors and other underserved groups, and weekly concerts in Westport.

Tickets — including a special expanded dinner, begin at $100 (early bird price, until April 26).

A $250 sponsor ticket includes preferred seating, a festive dinner and listing in the program.

$500 benefactor tickets include premium preferred seating, dinner, an hour- hour jazz lesson or listening session with the Jazz Rabbi, and listing in event booklet.

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In 1926 Agatha Christie vanished, then reappeared 11 days later, without explanation.

It was a tabloid sensation. Nearly a century later, the myster remains unsolved.

That’s the back story for the Westport Country Playhouse’s next Script in Hand reading (May 13, 7 p.m.): “Mrs. Christie.”

Fast forward to today: Lucy, a Christie aficionado, journeys to the author’s estate. When she finds an unpublished diary in Christie’s own hand, Lucy resolves to crack the case.

All tickets are $30. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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This spring, we’ve got a ton of beautiful images to choose from for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Today’s winner: Steve Stein’s purple azaleas.

(Photo/Steve Stein)

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And finally … today is National Lineman Appreciation Day.

No — not Anthony Munoz and his NFL brethren.

These are the guys (and girls) who climb the poles — in good weather, and really, really bad — to keep the juice flowing.

In a town like ours, where power conks out as regularly as Donald Trump in a Manhattan courthouse, we owe special thanks to our linemen. And linewomen.

Enjoy your day!

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Firefighters’ Fundraiser: Drink Whiskey. Enjoy Classic Cars. Save Lives.

Posted on April 6, 2024 | 6 comments

Every day, Westport firefighter Rob Lenois goes to work knowing he may have a chance to save someone’s life.

Now the rest of us can save a life too.

On April 24 (5:30 to 10 p.m., Autostrada), the Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation hosts its 2nd annual Whiskey Tasting.

The evening includes whiskey, specialty drinks, wine and beer; light bites from On the Marc; DJ Rob; a huge silent auction; antique fire trucks, and a photo booth.

The event falls on the third day of Passover. A rabbi will bless the ceremony, and kosher food will be available.

It’s a very important fundraiser. The goal is $80,000.

That’s the amount needed to replace 55 AEDs (automatic external defibrillators). There is one in every fire vehicle, police car and ambulance in town.

But they’re all nearly 20 years old, at the end of their useful lives.

Firefighter Rob Lenois, with a well-worn AED. He stands in front of Coleytown Engine Company 6’s 1950s-era map of the neighborhood. (Photo/Dan Woog)

AEDs ensure than human beings — you, me, our families, friends and neighbors — don’t check out before the end of our own useful lives.

Lenois says that when someone suffers a cardiac event, the survival rate using hands-only CPR is just 3%.

With an AED, that rises to 11%. And it’s a very impressive 66% if the victim gets to a hospital, after a pulse is obtained.

Westport first responders use their AEDs a dozen or so times a year. Deputy Fire Chief Nick Marsan had a memorable experience, saving a young woman’s life at the Saugatuck Rowing Club.

The community has rallied behind the firefighters’ April 24 event. Greens Farms Spirit Shop is the whiskey sponsor. The Kiev family, Tina Dragone, Hammer & Nails, Fleet Auto and many others are providing sponsorships and/or auction items.

Of course, Autostrada is an eye-popping party space. “If you haven’t seen it, this is a great chance to go,” Lenois says.

Autostrada’s lounge overlooks a floor filled with classic cars.

Last year’s event sold out, and raised over $40,000 for 4 important causes: “bed shaker” alarms for every hearing-impaired child in Westport; the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp; children’s cancer care, and cancer screenings for firefighters.

This year’s fundraising target is double that.

It’s a small price to pay, for 55 AEDs that could save someone’s life.

Or yours.

Click here for tickets to the 2nd annual Westport Firefighters Whiskey Tasting, and more information.

AEDs (automatic external defibrillators) save lives.

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Roundup: Westport Burgers, Weston Budget …

Posted on April 1, 2024 | 5 comments

Burger King is long gone from Westport. (Spoiler alert: It’s the Starbucks drive-thru.)

But now Matthew Mandell can call himself our new Burger King.

As executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, he oversees events like The Great Burger Contest. Twenty restaurants competed, in 7 categories.

But Matthew didn’t just sit in his office. He went whole hog.

He visited all 20 restaurants, during the 31 days of March. He ate a burger at every one (and tons of fries, too).

Matthew Mandell: 20 burgers in 31 days.

Voting ended at midnight last night. Results will be announced soon.

We’ll also announce how Matthew is feeling.

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Jay Norris is a busy man.

The Westport resident is co-founder and CEO of Guesst, the real estate and restaurant leasing software platform. He also co-founded BlackLight, the world’s first search engine for Black-owned businesses nationwide.

In addition, he helped start Startup Westport, the public/private partnership whose goal is to make our town the tech entrepreneurial capital of Connecticut. He founded Westport10, the social and networking organization for Black men and their families.

And he’s a board member of both the Westport Library, and the Westport Weston Family YMCA. Oh, yeah: He also volunteers as a mentor with A Better Chance of Westport.

Now he’s added a new gig.

Jay was just named co-chair of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. Focusing on innovation and technology, he’ll work to connect tech leaders in New York, and help them come up with solutions for the city and their small-to-medium- sized businesses.

Congratulations, Jay!

Jay Norris

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In this week’s “What’s Next in Weston” podcast, First Selectwoman Sam Nestor details the proposed FY 2024-25 Weston town budget.

Click below, for the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston feature:

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Yesterday’s Easter sunrise service warmed the hearts of all who headed to somewhat chilly Compo Beach.

Among the scenes:

(Photos/Rick Benson)

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No, this is not an April Fool’s joke.

The Westport Fire Department is not pretending to fill Ned Dimes Marina with water.

They were just down at Compo this weekend, testing out their hoses.

Looks like they work!

(Photo/Lisa Gold)

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Sherwood Island State Park is the scene for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

In just a few short weeks, the same spot will be packed with people.

Enjoy the serenity while you can.

(Photo/Susan Leone)

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And finally … happy April 1!

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Posted in Beach, Restaurants, Weston

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Tooker, Scarice Address Westport’s $400+ Million Capital Plan

Posted on March 27, 2024 | 10 comments

With more than $400 million in capital spending looming in our budget forecast, what can taxpayers expect?

Town officials say: We’re preparing.

And: We’ve been there before.

Common Ground — the Westport Library’s project to bring civility back to civic discourse — and the League of Women Voters collaborated last night on an educational forum.

Nearly 100 residents heard 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice, Finance Department director Gary Conrad and others discuss a variety of projects and timelines, and their implications for mill rates, bond ratings and more.

Acknowledging the costs associated with — among other things — a new police/fire/EMS facility, the renovation of Longshore and downtown parking lots, and a new Long Lots Elementary School, Tooker said twice that her goal is for the Westport’s mill rate to remain “stable, consistent and competitive.”

She, Conrad and a pair of independent bond advisors said that Westport’s finances have been well managed. Though debt will rise substantially through the mid-2030s, they expressed confidence that prudent, proactive planning will position the town well for the future.

To provide historical perspective, former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe and former RTM moderator Velma Heller began the event — titled “Preparing Westport for Major Capital Spending” — by citing previous large expenses.

In 1960 for example, the town purchased the failing Longshore Country Club for $1.9 million ($20 million, in today’s dollars). The decision — in the face of a 180-home residential development on the property — showed remarkable foresight, Marpe said.

(It also was done “around a dinner table” by 1st Selectman Herb Baldwin, the Board of Finance and other officials — not in open, transparent meetings — Marpe noted wryly.)

In 1959, a developer wanted to buy the failing Longshore Country Club, and built 180 homes on the land. In just 19 days, the town bought it as a municipal club.

Other major expenditures included new schools in the 1950s and ’60s, Baron’s South, and the Senior Center.

The public debt burden ballooned to $200 million. But Westport kept its AAA bond rating — and paid it off with one of the lowest mill rates in Fairfield County.

Tooker noted that in the private sector — where she worked before entering local politics — leaders are rewarded for being “ahead of the curve.” In government, she said, the key is to be neither too early or too late.

It is not an easy needle to thread. Officials constantly ask what a variety of stakeholders want, and if the town can afford it.

She described the 3 major expenses. The $90 million combined first responder facility would replace the 1980s fire headquarters and 1950s police/EMS building.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, with photos of the Saugatuck firehouse, and police headquarters. 

Renovations to Longshore — an asset that attracts newcomers, and serves nearly all residents — would involve racquet sports, the pools, a new golf clubhouse and more, and cost about $40 million. It includes a private partnership with Delamar, which begins renovating the Inn at Longshore next year.

The downtown plan addresses more open space, pedestrian and vehicular safety, and flood mitigation, so that residents and visitors will be encouraged to spend more time shopping, dining and enjoying the Saugatuck River.

Other projects in the 10-year capital plan include sidewalks, bridges, culverts, and equipment like police cars, fire trucks and Public Works vehicles.

The Board of Finance is the first body to approve spending requests. The Representative Town Meeting gives the final okay.

From left: Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Finance director Gary Conrad, and bond advisors Matt Spoerndle, Mike Andreana, and assistant superintendent of schools John Bayers settle in at last night’s forum. Behind them is a list of expected major capital projects. 

Scarice noted that when he arrived in the early days of the 2020 pandemic, Coleytown Middle School had recently closed due to mold. The town wanted “no more surprises” with building maintenance.

Studies showed that Long Lots was at the end of its 70-year-old life. Coleytown Elementary School is getting there, though its condition is not as dire.

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice, with a photo of Long Lots Elementary School.

During COVID, meanwhile, Westport’s school enrollment skyrocketed. Our figures far outpaced those of neighboring suburbs, which have remained stagnant or even decreased. That impacts our schools — along with recreational facilities, emergency services and more.

Private bond counselor Mike Andreana said that many towns rely only on 5-year capital forecasts. That is “more reactive,” he said. “Thinking 10 years out is fantastic.”

The panel, with a chart showing Westport’s past and projected debt, from 2001 through 2037. (Photos/Dan Woog)

So what does it all mean for the mill rate?

That is set after looking at the town’s budget, borrowing, reserves, grand list and non-taxable revenues, Tooker said.

It is a rigorous process, done in conjunction with the Board of Finance.

And despite the capital forecast of up to $470 million — a figure, she emphasized, that is not set in stone — the 1st Selectwoman declared, “I am so bullish on our future as a community. There are so many exciting, positive changes.

“I’m not worried,” she continued. “But I take my fiscal responsibility very seriously. It is critical for the mill rate to remain stable, consistent and competitive.

“Westport,” she concluded, “is on fire.”

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Posted in Downtown, Economy, Education, Library, Local politics, Longshore, Police

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Unsung Heroes: Special Edition

Posted on March 21, 2024 | 7 comments

Okay, they’re not really “unsung.”

But we probably don’t sing their praises enough.

I’m talking (of course) about Westport’s Fire and Police Departments, and Emergency Medical Service.

Their lightning-quick, well-coordinated, extremely professional and exceptionally efficient response yesterday turned what could have been a mass casualty event — 27 teenage rowers and 2 coaches, in the frigid water off Compo Beach in gale conditions — into what Police Chief Foti Koskinas calls “a very good outcome.”

From the moment the first 911 call came, at 5:06 p.m. — from a young rower in the water — to an hour later, when the last victim was rescued, and on through the extra hour spent making sure everyone was safe, then into the very clear, direct and honest 8:30 p.m. press conference, with media from as far as New York, the incident serves as an important reminder that our first responders are even more than first class.

They are the best of the best.

We don’t often think about the training that goes into a response like yesterday’s. We don’t see the hours spent planning for every conceivable what-if, while knowing that not every conceivable situation can be foreseen — and the way that response plays out when a call arrives that 29 people are offshore, in 40-degree temperatures.

We don’t know how they do what they do: ensuring that mutual aid arrives from nearby towns; setting up a command post; coordinating efforts in a chaotic scene; getting an accurate count, then accounting for everyone.

We don’t understand the courage it takes to head out in dangerous conditions, or the emotional toll such an event takes on everyone involved.

We don’t give much thought to the men and women in our Fire, Police and EMS departments — the rank-and-file, and their leaders.

Nor do we give much thoughts to their annual budget requests, and how they use our tax dollars.

But — as yesterday proved — every penny they spend is well-deserved.

And well earned.

Westport gives grateful thanks to our Fire, Police and EMS first responders. Sung or unsung, they are our heroes —  today, and every day.

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Rowing Rescue: Photos Show Compo Scene

Posted on March 21, 2024 | 5 comments

The Westport Fire Department has released photos of yesterday’s dramatic rescue of 27 teenage rowers, and 1 coach, from Long Island Sound.

The Saugatuck Rowing Club athletes and adult were in 3 sculls and 1 chase boat when the weather suddenly turned nasty. The sculls filled with water; 2 overturned, as did the chase boat when the young rowers clung to it.

Click here for the full story of the event, including the superb efforts of Westport’s Fire, Police and Emergency Medical Service, aided by mutual aid from surrounding towns.

The Fire Department’s inflatable vessel brings rowers to shore.

First responders assist victims.

Emergency personnel remained for an hour after the last rower was rescued at 6 p.m., an hour after the incident began, to ensure that everyone was accounted for.

Emergency vehicles from many units raced to Compo Beach.

(All photos courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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Dramatic Day At Compo: 29 Rowers Rescued, After Winds Swamp Boats

Posted on March 21, 2024 | 32 comments

Twenty-eight people — 27 teenager rowers and 1 coach — were thrown into the water off Compo Beach late yesterday afternoon, when glass water suddenly turned rough.

But a mass casualty was averted, thanks to the quick and coordinated efforts of first responders from several towns.

Westport Police Chief Foti Koskinas and Deputy Fire Chief Nick Marsan described the dramatic rescues last night, at a police headquarters press conference that drew media from as far as New York.

What Koskinas called “a very serious incident with a very good outcome” began around 5 p.m. A Saugatuck Rowing Club athlete called 911, reporting that boats had capsized and there were people in the water.

Westport Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Service responders raced to Compo. They found a “chaotic” scene, Koskinas said, with a number of young rowers clinging to boats, between the beach and Cockenoe Island. Others were swimming to shore.

The 3 60-foot rowing sculls — with 9 boys, ages 14 to 18, in each — had been swamped when calm weather suddenly turned very windy. Two of them capsized.

Just an hour before the near-tragedy, Alli DiVincenzo took a photo of the Saugatuck Rowing Club boat on calm water.

Some swam to a much smaller launch boat, manned by a coach. Another launch boat soon arrived.

As the young rowers clung to the first launch boat, it too overturned.

The water temperature was 44 degrees. The air temperature was 40.

The Westport Fire Department sent trained dive personnel. Fairfield, Norwalk and Stamford marine units soon arrived to assist. So did the US Coast Guard. There were 8 ambulances on the scene too.

Assistant Fire Chief Matthew Cohen immediately established a command post.

The Fire Department’s inflatable vessel brought 6 victims to shore. The Westport Police Marine boat brought 6 more to Ned Dimes Marina. First responders assisted other victims as they reached the beach on their own.

The chaotic scene yesterday at Compo Beach. (Photo/Larry Hoy)

Emergency personnel initially believed 25 people were involved. The number was raised to 29. Several of the young rowers had reached shore, and gone in to nearby homes to warm up and shower.

Eventually, all were found, and matched with lists of those who had been on the water.

Responders remained at the scene for an extra hour after the last rower was removed from the water at 6 p.m.. They made sure no one was still unaccounted for.

Norwalk Hospital was advised to prepare for a mass casualty event. Ultimately, only 2 young rowers required medical attention there, for hypothermia.

“The weather changed so quickly,” said Weston High School junior Davis Evans, a 4-year Saugatuck Rowing Club athlete.

“The water was glassy. Then it suddenly got windy. Two- to 3-foot swells crashed into the boat. That was really scary.”

Davis Evans describes the dramatic events. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Three hours after the rescue, he said, “it still hasn’t really sunk in yet.”

But, he noted, his fellow rowers remained calm. “I was really impressed by how mature everyone was.” He cited Alex Vogt, the coach on the launch boat that overturned, as “the reason everything worked out okay.”

Westport Public Schools quickly sent a bus to Compo. The rowers warmed up there, then were transported to the Saugatuck Rowing Club to be reunited with families.

“It was an incredible team effort,” Koskinas said. “The most important thing is that all 29 people are safe tonight with their families.”

“As the mother of 3 athletes, I can’t imagine the range of emotions today,” 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker said.

Noting that 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore had a daughter who rowed with the Saugatuck Club, Tooker added, “We hope that all the kids and families feel safe, and well taken care of, tonight.”

She thanked “this amazing leadership team. We are so blessed to have such a professional group of Fire, Police and EMS first responders.”

Police Chief Foti Koskinas describes the events, at last night’s press conference. Behind him are (from left) Deputy Police Chief Ryan Paulsson Deputy Fire Chief Nick Marsan, Westport Police Lieutenant Eric Woods, Assistant Fire Chief Matt Cohen, EMS Deputy Director Marc Hartog and EMS’ Rick Baumblatt. (Photo/Dan Woog)

“You can’t really prepare for something like this,” said Evans, the Weston High rower.

“We practice 6 days a week, from 3 to 6 p.m. We were out that far because the water was really nice. There was no sense of bad weather, until it was there.

“You don’t think something like this can happen to you — until it does.”

But, he said, he will be back on the water soon.

“This is my sport.”

Koskinas said that an investigation into the incident is ongoing.

(Assistance was provided by the Fairfield Police Marine Division, Stamford Police Marine Division, Norwalk Fire Boat, Norwalk Police Marine Division, Norwalk Fire Marine Division and US Coast Guard. Eight ambulances and 20 personnel were provided by Norwalk Hospital, American Medical Response and Darien EMS.)

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Posted in Beach, Local business, Police, Sports, Teenagers

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Friday Flashback #390

Posted on March 15, 2024 | 8 comments

In the 1960s and ’70s — before strict building codes, and regular inspections and enforcement by the Fire Department — there were spectacular fires at Westport businesses.

Carousel Toy Store burned twice: in Compo Acres Shopping Center (along with Franklin Simon and others), then again in Sconset Square (at the time, called Sherwood Square; the Paint Bucket next door burned to the ground too).

The furniture store opposite Brooks Corner went up in a memorable winter blaze in 1976; it was a midweek afternoon, and downtown was thronged.

Several years earlier, the Westport Lanes bowling alley caught fire in the middle of the night. Unlike Carousel or the furniture store (now The Gap), it was rebuilt.

Another large fire took out the entire block between Taylor Place and the entrance to the Jesup Green parking lot, across from what was then the Westport Library (today it’s the downtown Starbucks, and others).

On the evening of Saturday, November 10, 1974, the businesses — Muriel’s Diner at one end, Klaff’s Lighting at the other, and a jewelry store, smoke shop, shoe repair, plus 2nd-floor offices and apartments — caught fire.

The aftermath of the “Klaff’s fire.” (Photo courtesy of Gail Comden)

The blaze did at least $1 million in damage, and cut power to much of downtown.

The block was rebuilt, and Klaff’s returned. (The space is now South Moon Under.)

But a historic block — housing the very first, pre-Morris Jesup library, among others) — was gone.

(Friday Flashback is a regular “06880” feature. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Friday Flashback

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Roundup: Hazardous Waste Day, Bernadette Peters, Long Lots …

Posted on March 14, 2024 | 2 comments

Westport’s next Hazardous Waste Day is Saturday, April 13 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station).

The free program enables residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich to safely dispose of household hazardous wastes.

Residents of those towns may bring these types of hazardous waste: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.

  • Make sure items are clearly labeled.
  • Never mix chemicals!
  • Keep products in their original labeled containers.
  • Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
  • Tighten lids of all containers, and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
  • Put boxes in the trunk or in back of the vehicle, away from passengers.
  • Leave pets and children home when bringing hazardous materials for collection.
  • This is the first Hazardous Waste Day of 2024, so lines may be long.

Westport residents may recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.

The following items are NOT acceptable: ammunition, flares, commercial hazardous waste.

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The Westport Country Playhouse has hosted many big names.

On May 19, it adds another: Bernadette Peters.

The stage, film and television actor and singer has won 4 Emmy Awards, 3 Tonys, and a Golden Globe. She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Peters just finished a successful West End debut in “Old Friends,” celebrating the life and work of Stephen Sondheim.

Tickets for the evening of song are $250 and $175. All proceeds benefit live theater at the Playhouse. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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The Long Lots School Building Committee meets tonight (Thursday, March 14, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 309).

Two items on the agenda:

  • Executive discussion to discuss Request for Quote submissions, with invited candidates.
  • Public comment and/or questions, as time allows.

Discussion continues, on a new Long Lots Elementary School.

Meanwhile, next Monday (March 18, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium), 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will present the town budget for fiscal year 2024-25 to the Board of Finance.

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A large crowd filled Mitchells of Westport for last night’s meet-and-greet with University of Connecticut women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma, and his team.

Among the attendees: Emily Bernier. She wore her UConn shirt. Meeting the legendary Auriemma was fun — and so was posing with her idol, Paige Bueckers:

The event was a fundraiser for Bleeding Blue for Good, the organization that provides name, image, likeness opportunities for Husky athletes.

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There is no limit on beach sticker sales to people who live in Westport and Weston.

However, only 450 stickers are sold to folks living anywhere else.

Those non-resident sales began yesterday, online and in person.

The photo below shows the woman (on the right) who purchased the first non-resident sticker.

She looks delighted.

Like the rest of us, she can’t wait to shed her coat, and — starting May 1 — put that sticker to good use.

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Registration is open for a slew of Wakeman Town Farm classes and events, for children and adults.

They include:

  • Kids’ spring classes
  • Kids’ summer camp
  • Kids’ Easter and Passover cooking (April 26, 4:15 to 6 p.m., ages 6-12)
  • Backyard chicken-keeping (April 4 and 25, May 9, 6:30 p.m.)
  • Canning class: jams and pickles (April 30, 6:15 p.m.).

Click here for details and registration information.

Want to raise chickens? Wakeman Town Farm will teach you.

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Jill Dunn‘s speed dating events are attracting big crowds.

And some great success stories.

The next are on Tuesday (March 19, Walrus Alley).

There are actually 2: one of people in the 30s-40s range (7 p.m.), the other for singles 55+ (5 p.m.).

Space is available for all (particularly for “great men” in the older group).

Click here for tickets to next Tuesday’s events. Click here for more news and information for singles.

Speed dating at Walrus Alley.

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Westport Police made no custodial arrests between March 6 and 13.

They issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 12 citations
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 5
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Passing a standing school bus: 1
  • No passing zone violation: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to comply with dog ownership requirements: 1
  • Permitting dog to roam: 1
  • Failure to comply with tinted auto glass regulations: 1
  • Failure to return plates: 1

Westporters love dogs. But you can’t let them roam. And they have to obey all regulations. (Photo/Dana Altman)

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Last week, “06880” reported that Nate Colman and Jonah Rothlein’s documentary was one of 15 finalists for C-SPAN’s Student Cam contest.

Now it’s official: the Weston High School students’ story about Morad Tahbaz, a Weston resident held in an Iranian prison for 6 years, won the grand prize.

The young filmmakers will receive $5,000 — and “Innocents Held Hostage” will air on C-SPAN on April 21 (6:50 a.m., then throughout the day).

You can see it now — just click below:

The network received over 1,600 entries, from 42 states and Washington DC.

Congratulations, Nate and Jonah!

Nate Colman and Jonah Rothlein

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The Porch at Christie’s is now also The Porch at the Y.

The popular Cross Highway spot has opened an outpost at the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

They’re selling wraps, muffins, breakfast sandwiches, coffee, fruit and more.

That’s good news for everyone hungry after a workout, plus parents hanging out while their kids play, and of course Y employees.

It’s good news too for people with disabilities. The Porch’s mission is to train and hire those individuals — there, and at its Sweet P Bakery.

The Porch kiosk, at the YMCA. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Westport is a town of people who love to read. Now, you can help select the next winner of the Westport Prize for Literature.

The Westport Prize needs readers to help vet manuscripts for its 2024 honor, to be awarded in conjunction with this fall’s StoryFest.

Readers will read 2 or 3 manuscripts, then submit feedback via an online form. Those results will help determine the finalists that advance to an independent jury.

The Westport Prize for Literature honors “an original work of fiction that explores issues in contemporary society. Last year’s winner was Zadie Smith, for The Fraud.

Westport residents interested in being a reader for this year’s prize should click here.

Last year’s winner of the Westport Prize for Literature.

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The Greenfield Hill Grange is in Fairfield. But Westporter Cornelia Olsen is very involved.

And Westport resident/composter/self-described “trash picker” James Flint is the speaker at fundraiser there. Proceeds will help pay for a new roof on the beautiful Queen Anne building.

“Recycling Revisited” (March 23, noon) is a luncheon and panel discussion for “gardeners, farmers, eaters and waste generators.”

Speakers will offer updates on what’s in and out in the recycling world; the solid waste crisis in Connecticut, and what local residents can do about it all.

Tickets are $20, and include a tuna or egg salad sandwich, beverage and dessert. RSVP by March 20; call Cornelia: 203-571-8673.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is an unusual night one.

Doris Ghitelman shot this looking across the Saugatuck River. The lights are from buildings on Saugatuck Avenue.

(Photo/Doris Ghitelman)

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And finally … speaking of Bernadette Peters, coming in May to the Westport Country Playhouse (story above):

(Not a day goes by that “06880” is not grateful for our readers’ support. Please click here, to make our day. Thank you!)

 

 

 

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Posted in Environment, Police, Restaurants, Teenagers, Weston, Westport Country Playhouse, YMCA

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Roundup: Cribari Bridge, Parks & Rec, Dave Brubeck …

Posted on February 16, 2024 | 12 comments

After nearly 5 years, there’s finally some action on the William F. Cribari Bridge.

The state Department of Transportation is preparing a long-overdue environmental document. It will examine many issues pertaining to the 133-year-old swing span over the Saugatuck River.

It will include a “preferred alternative” — probably, a replacement.

When the document is published, there will be public hearings and comments. DOT will then forge ahead.

Yesterday, the South Western Region Metropolitan Planning Organization moved ahead with an endorsement for a $4.1 million addition to the DOT’s Transportation Improvement Plan for the design phase for the bridge.

William F. Cribari Bridge (Photo/Sam Levenson)

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Hot off the mic!

Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn of TCS recently returned from a trip to Israel, with Rabbi Michael Friedman of Temple Israel, and congregants from the 2 synagogues.

Soon after he returned, Rabbi Wiederhorn sat with 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, for the Y’s Men’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast.

Click below to listen to their informative, emotional conversation.

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Spring and summer Westport Parks & Recreation Department program offerings are now viewable online.

There will be 2 online registration dates.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, March 5   for Camp Compo and RECing Crew only.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, March 6 for all other spring and summer programs.

Officials urge residents to login in to their online account to verify family information.

In the profile, choose “Manage Family Member” on the bottom right. Then, on the “My Family Members” page, click on the first name in the column. Verify date of birth, and the correct grade (as of December 31, 2024). Then hit “save.”

Unable to log in? Email recreation@westportct.gov or call 203-341-5152. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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The Westport Fire Department responded with 4 fire engines, 1 ladder truck and the shift commander to a fire last night on Burr Farms Road.

First arriving companies found heavy smoke coming from the garage. Entry was made, and firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze.

All occupants safely evacuated the house. There were no injuries.

The WFD reminds everyone to have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in their homes. Homeowners were alerted to this fire by a smoke detector.

Westport EMS and Police assisted on scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Aftermath of the Burr Farms Road fire.

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Dave Brubeck — a longtime area resident who earned a Kennedy Center Honor, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, before his death in 2012 a day before his 92nd birthday — lives on.

The Brubeck Brothers Quartet is set for a special fundraising event March 9, (Westport Library). Proceeds support the Library’s vast array of free programs and offerings.

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

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

General admission tickets are $75. VIP tickets ($125) include a pre-event reception with the Brubeck family and gifts, including a vinyl LP exclusive pressing of “Time OutTakes,” featuring previously unreleased takes from the original Brubeck masterpiece “Time Out” — the first jazz album to sell 1 million copies.

 Click here for tickets, and more information.

Brubeck Brothers Quartet

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Next up in the Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand series: “The Trip To Bountiful” (March 11, 7 p.m.).

Carrie Watts dreams to escape the city, and return to simpler times in her beloved Bountiful, Texas. On her risky journey she encounters kindness and compassion — and makes a remarkable discovery about the true meaning of home.

Click here for tickets ($30), and more information.

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Also at the Playhouse: Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic musical “Cinderella” — originally seen on Broadway in 2013 — is set for a limited run this weekend and next. Dates are February 17-25.

Click here for more information, including the all-star cast and tickets.

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MoCA Westport’s current “60s Mod” exhibition showcases iconic works by established artists, and submissions from high school artists who interpret the era.

One influential featured artist — and quite appropriate for Black History Month — is the late Richard Hunt. He pioneered using industrial machine imagery as a staple of modern art.

Inspired by modernism and abstract expressionism, the sculptor took to junkyard metals to recreate organic figures. His monuments to civil rights heroes include Martin Luther King Jr., Mary McLeod Bethune, Jesse Owens and Ida B. Wells.

At 35, he was the first African American to have a retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art, and the first to serve on the National Endowment for the Arts governing body. The MoMA has presented 12 exhibitions of his work.

MoCA Westport’s exhibition features a Hunt lithograph and serigraph. The Westport Arts Collection curated this exhibition, and has 21 other prints related to his 3-dimensional sculptures. 

Click here for more information on the exhibit.

Richard Hunt, in his studio.

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In the 1940s, whist parties were all the rage in Weston. James and Cleora Coley — the last owners of the history Coley house — won many tournaments.

They return March 27 (6:30 p.m.), when the Weston History & Culture Center hosts its own event. That’s the site of the same Coley house where James and Cleora lived (and played).

The evening includes its card playing, and retro-inspired snacks and cocktails. Experienced players will be at each table of 4 to teach whist, and assist.

Tickets are $15 each; click here to purchase.

Whist!

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Snowmen linger all over Westport, after Tuesday’s storm.

This one — a bit the worse for wear (and warmer weather) entertains beachgoers at Old Mill:

(Photo/Jill McGrath)

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Meanwhile, today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature stars Anne Bernier’s tunnels and perches, made by her son and daughter (ages 15 and 10) for Toby (the dog). They stood yesterday, despite the melting snow.

Today will be mostly sunny, with a high of about 42. Saturday may bring snow showers.

(Photo/Anne Bernier)

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And finally … today is the 101st anniversary of Howard Carter’s unsealing of the burial chamber of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, as well as the birthdays of Sonny Bono (he would have been 89 years old) and Ice-T (66).

I’m pretty sure this is the first time in history that King Tut, Sonny Bono and Ice-T have appeared in the same sentence.

(“06880” is indeed “Where Westport Meets the World.” But we can’t do it without your support. Please click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Library, Local politics, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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