Tag Archives: Westport Sunrise Rotary

Roundup: Staples Internships, Board Of Finance, Fair Rent Commission …

Posted on December 9, 2023 | 3 comments

Staples High School’s Internship Program is a win-win-win.

Every spring, talented and eager seniors leave school 3-4 weeks before graduation. They spend the final month out in the real world.

They work everywhere: retail stores, salons, restaurants, non-profits, medical offices, financial firms, design shops, farms, marketing companies, photography studios, publishers … you name it. If there’s a job to be learned and done, they do it.

(And not just in Westport. Interns head to New York City — even beyond.)

The work and real life experience they gain is invaluable. The energy, creativity — and help — they bring to the workplace is huge. And the internships get them out of high school at a time when senioritis would otherwise kick in (that’s the third “win”).

But as hard as they work, the program coordinators work equally hard right now arranging 420 or so internships.

So they’re asking the greater “06880” community: Can you help?

Do you need a senior (or 2, or 3) for daily onsite (or remote) work? Perhaps you’re beefing up your social media presence. Or looking for research help, design work, web content, data entry. Or hundreds of other tasks.

You can be a small, medium or large size firm– or a single proprietor. Maybe you were an intern once yourself, and want to give back.

Internships begin May 20. Students are expected to work 5 hours a day for 3-4 weeks, onsite, remotely or in a hybrid model. Program leaders provide guidance and oversight.

If interested, or to learn more, email shsinternship@westportps.org.

Staples High School internship opportunities include local farms.

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The Board of Finance holds a special meeting this Monday (December 11, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

There is one agenda item: “Second discussion of the Long Lots Building Project.” It’s a discussion only; no vote will be taken.

The Long Lots Elementary School building project’s next step is the Board of Finance. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

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Speaking of local politics: 1st Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker is seeking residents registered to vote in Westport to serve on the Fair Rent Commission. This group, was recently established by the Representative Town Meeting.

Five members will be appointed to staggered 4-year terms. Click here for the full language of the ordinance, including its makeup and powers.

In addition to the Fair Rent Commission, Westport residents with varying interests, talents, backgrounds and political affiliations are encouraged to volunteer to serve on other appointed committees that currently have vacancies or upcoming member term limits:

  • Architectural Review Board
  • Arts Advisory Committee
  • Blight Prevention Board
  • Commission for Senior Services
  • Conservation Commission
  • Flood and Erosion Control Board (Alternates)
  • Historic District Commission
  • Parks Advisory Committee
  • Tree Board
  • Youth Commission

Click here for descriptions of the roles and responsibilities of these appointed boards, commissions and committees.

Registered voters seeking any appointment should submit an Interest Form,   including a brief description of your background, biography or resume to selectwoman@westportct.gov.

Questions? Contact 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore: amoore@westportct.gov.

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Westport’s November residential home real estate market was stronger than a year ago.

There were 25 unit sales — up 8.7% compared to November 2022.

The median sales price of $1,75 million was up 9.7%; the median sales price per square foot of $434 is a 3% increase.

76% of homes sold for 95% or more of the list price. 84% sold within 90 days of listing.

The inventory of 91 homes represents a 12.5% decline compared to a year ago. The days on market — 48 — is a 15.8% decline. (Hat tip: Meredith Cohen/Raveis)

This 5-bedroom, 5 1/2-bathroom house at 2 Owenoke Park is listed for $8.795 million. It is 4,820 square feet, on 0.47 acres.

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La Plage celebrates the holidays with 2 special dinners.

There are 3-course prix fixe meals on Christmas Eve (4 to 10 p.m.) and Christmas Day (noon to 7 p.m.; $90 per person; $55 for 12 and under; $20 for kid’s menu). Click here for the menu, and reservations (required).

New Year’s Eve features a la carte seating from 5 to 7 p.m. A gala dinner, with 5- course tasting menu, is served from 8:30 on. Click here for the menu, and reservations.

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Speaking of the holidays: It will be a cold one in Lyman, Ukraine. For the second winter in a row, our sister city is dealing with the effects of Russia’s invasion.

Brian Mayer — the Westporter who co-founded Ukraine Aid International — is in Lyman this week.

Yesterday, he sent a video. It shows both the destruction, and the opportunity to help.

Our goal this month is to raise $60,000. That would pay for 2 wood pellet machines. Each provides pellets to heat 1,000 homes. In just 96 hours, “06880” readers have donated nearly $51,000.

With your help, the machines can be funded — and delivered — by Christmas. $30 will heat one home all winter. $300 will heat 10. $3,000 will heat 100. And 3 of those $3,000 donations will enable us to reach our goal.

To donate by credit card, click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo. Thank you!

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Pizza and a play.

That’s on the menu December 20. Westport Country Playhouse hosts “Together at the Table Family Dinner,” before a performance of the holiday production “A Sherlock Carol.” Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for a pizza dinner, followed by the show at 7.

Families can enjoy a communal dinner in the Playhouse’s rehearsal barn and a casual conversation with an artist from the show before the performance together – all for $10 per ticket (must attend as a family, with student-age children. For reservations, call 203-227-4177.

“A Sherlock Carol” runs from December 19-23. Click here for the full schedule, and more information.

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Former 1st Selectwoman Diane Farrell returns to Westport.

This time, she’s the deputy under secretary for international trade, in the office of the Deputy Undersecretary of Commerce.

She’ll speak to the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club this Friday (December 15, 7:45 a.m.,; coffee, bagels and muffins at 7;  Green’s Farms Congregational Church).

The public is invited. To RSVP or for questions, email info@WestportSunriseRotary.org.

Diane Farrell

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Kerri Rosenthal turns its attention from women’s clothes to women’s work.

On Tuesday (December 12, 6 to 8 p.m.), the Main Street store hosts a launch and discussion for Dr. Hilary Berger’s new book, “Work Like a Mother: Rewriting the Script for a Mother’s Career and Wellness Journey.”

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Congratulations to Staples High School’s December Students of the Month: seniors Deneil Betfarhad and William Lacend Duprey; juniors Elsa D’Elia, Christina Kavanah and Kelpin Gomez Ramos; sophomore Reese Rein, and freshmen Lila Roach and Simon Van Aken.

Students of the Month “help make Staples a welcoming place for their peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together, making it the special place that it is.”

Staples Students of the Month (from left): Simon Van Aken, Lila Roach, Kelpin Gomez Ramos, Deneil Betfarhad, Christina Kavanah, Elsa D’Elia, William Lacend Duprey. Missing: Reese Rein. 

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Speaking of Staples: 1979 graduate and Clemson University men’s soccer head coach Mike Noonan is headed to the NCAA championship.

His Tigers beat West Virginia University 1-0 yesterday in the Division I semifinal. They face Notre Dame in Monday’s final (6 p.m.).

Noonan had a legendary soccer career at Staples, helping lead the Wreckers to the 1978 state championship. After earning All-America status at Middlebury College, he played professionally — including in Louisville, where the Final 4 is being held.

Several of Noonan’s former Staples teammates and friends made the trip there for yesterday’s match, including Rich Hiltz, Eric Strausser and Dan Donovan. Donovan’s son Paddy is a reserve goalkeeper for Clemson.

Mike Noonan greets Westport fans after yesterday’s NCAA Division I semifinal win.

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The Westport Astronomical Society’s free online lecture series continues December 19 (8 p.m.), with an out-of-this-world topic.

Dr. Catherine S. Plesko will discuss “Planetary Defense: Using Supercomputers to Prevent Asteroid Impacts on Earth.” She is the principal investigator for planetary defense at Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Click here to watch via Zoom. Click here to watch via YouTube.

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Claudia Sherwood Servidio offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” image from Main Street near Willowbrook Cemetery, with this comment: “There’s still color out there!”

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … in honor of Dr. Hilary Berger’s book launch (story above):

(Once again — as we’ve done every day since 2009 — “06880” delivers tons of useful, hyper-local news and information. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

3 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Real estate, Restaurants, Staples HS

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Roundup: Traffic Meeting, Uncorked, Roy Wood Jr. ,,,

Posted on October 13, 2023 | 9 comments

Remember those 9 neighborhood meetings held last year about traffic?

And the report that followed, this past February?

On October 26 (7 p.m., Town Hal auditorium), the town hosts a “Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Update Session.”

On hand will be staff members knowledgeable about traffic management, roadway conditions, engineering, possible speed calming solutions, and the regulations and oversight authority of the town.

Public Works, Planning & Zoning and Public Safety Departments will update the public on progress made. Residents can also provide input on areas of concern.

RTM member Kristin Schneeman addressed a 2022 traffic and safety meeting. Next to her were fellow RTM reps Lori Church, Nancy Kail and Sal Liccione.

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Westport Sunrise Rotary has 2 signature events each year.

The Great Duck Race is for kids and families.

The Westport Uncorked wine tasting is for adults.

The 21-plus (mostly a bit older) crowd turned out in force last night. The Inn at Longshore was filled with wines of a wide variety of vintages and vineyards. There was plenty of tasting, plenty of buying — and plenty of money raised for the many good works Sunrise Rotary does, locally and much further afield.

Everything, in other words, was ducky.

A small portion of the large crowd at Sunrise Rotary’s Inn at Westport “Uncorked” wine tasting. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Saturday’s “Stand Up For Homes with Hope” benefit at Fairfield University’s Quick Center is sold out.

But the headliner — comedian Roy Wood Jr. — is still working hard to make it a success.

He came to Westport yesterday to see what the fundraiser is all about. He toured the Gillespie men’s shelter, the Hoskins Place women’s shelter, met the clients and staff, and had lunch with the board.

Roy Wood Jr.’s job is to make people laugh. He’s done it as a correspondent on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, and as MC of last spring’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner.

But he saw first-hand the very serious, even life-changing work that everyone associated with Homes with Hope does, 24/7/365.

He’s sure to give a shout-out to them all Saturday night.

Along with plenty of jokes.

Roy Wood Jr. (back row, center) with Homes with Hope board and staff.

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The Blondinit — the new Israeli restaurant — has not yet opened on Church Lane.

But as they prepare to welcome diners, owners Solomon and Inda Sade are thinking of the beleaguered nation.

They show their solidarity, loud and clear:

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Westport Police made no custodial arrests between October 4 and 11.

They issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 9 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 7
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle while texting: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1

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An incorrect date was given yesterday for Lynn Flint’s 1-day art show, to benefit Bridgeport artists in need of help with rent, food, fuel and materials.

.It’s Thursday, October 26 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), on Belaire Drive. A sign on Saugatuck Avenue (near the Norwalk border) will direct art lovers to the sale.

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It took several years of work, Stan Witkow says. But he finally has a tomato and garlic harvest.

And today he shares it “06880,” as our “Westport … Naturally” feature of the day.

(Photo/Stan Witkow)

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And finally … in honor of Roy Wood Jr., and his appearance tomorrow’s “Stand Up for Homes with Hope” fundraiser:

(Every day — we hope — “06880” makes you laugh, cry, think and act. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

 

9 Comments

Posted in Arts, Local politics, Police, Restaurants, Transportation

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Roundup: Downtown Parking, Remarkable Theater, Sweetgreen …

Posted on August 12, 2023 | 21 comments

There’s no such thing as a free lunch — at least, if you’re eating in or taking out downtown.

Downtown parking though, has always been free — for 1 or 2 hours.

During the pandemic, enforcement of parking limits was suspended.

Tickets may soon return — but only after those parking limits are extended.

The second agenda item on Wednesday’s Board of Selectwomen meeting (August 16, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium) reads:

Acting in its capacity as the Local Traffic Authority, to re-establish the enforcement of timed parking limits previously suspended by the Board of Selectmen at its public meeting of June 10, 2020, and further, to establish uniform parking limits and times of enforcement throughout the town-managed and owned downtown parking lots known as Parker Harding Plaza, Sigrid Shultz Plaza, Baldwin, Bay Street, Jesup Road, and Taylor, and the Town roadways known as Main Street, Church Lane, Bay Street, and Taylor Place, by changing FROM the currently posted “1- and 2- hour parking” limits TO “3-hour parking” limits and enforcement times TO “8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.” And further, to request permission from the CT DOT to change the current parking term limits posted on Post Road East FROM “1- and 2-hour parking” TO “3-hour parking.”

Click here for the livestream of the Board of Selectwomen session, or watch on Optimum Channel 79. Comments may be sent to selectwoman@westportct.gov prior to the meeting.

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The 3rd agenda item for Wednesday’s Board of Selectwomen’s meeting is also of interest: a request from the Remarkable Theater to use the Imperial Avenue parking lot from August 28 through November 3 for a 4th season of drive-in movies.

From 2020 through ’22, the Remarkable’s season began in the spring.

Paul and Melissa Levy, at the Remarkable Theater.

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Jacqui O’Brien was one of several readers who sent photos of a strange object seen over Westport skies last night.

Susan Leone was the first to identify them as SpaceX Starlink satellites.

They were launched yesterday from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. It was the 9th flight for the first stage booster supporting the mission.

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As first noted on “06880” over a year ago — but denied vociferously by Organic Krush — Sweetgreens is indeed moving in to Compo Shopping Center.

Organic Krush has already moved out.

No date has been announced for opening. But the fast-casual salad-based chain — which emphasizes healthy eating and sustainability, and has 158 outlets in 13 states — already has Westporters excited.

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The recent food drive for Homes with Hope’s Gillespie Center and food pantry — which included a special, fill-my-shopping-cart trip by a mother and 2 children —  was celebrated yesterday, at the Sunrise Rotary Club’s weekly meeting.

The sponsors — including also the Westport Rotary Club, Westport Police Department and Saugatuck Rowing Club — presented a check for $1,105.62 to Homes with Hope.

Those cash donations were in addition to the hundreds of bags of groceries that were dropped off, as shoppers entered and exited the store.

From left: Liz Wong, Sunrise Rotary president; Rob Hauck, Rotary member; Helen McAlinden, Homes with Hope president; Paris Looney, HWH vice president, and Sunrise Rotary members Bruce Paul and Bruce Fritz. (Photo/James Wong)

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The link provided yesterday by Wakeman Town Farm for their September 9 Harvest Fest fundraiser was incorrect. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Wakeman Town Farm’s Harvest Fest is coming soon.

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Many Westporters love pickleball. Some hate it.

But all can agree: the Smart Shots Pickleball Social is great.

The September 30 event (6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Milford Indoor Tennis) is a fundraiser for A Better Chance of Westport.

Level-designated courts will ensure exciting matches. Vendors will offer pickleball services and products. A raffle includes special prizes. The Porch @ Christie’s is providing food (available for pre-purchase).

The event is sponsored by ATP (Alan & Tina Pickleball). Click here to register. Questions? Call 203-984-1949.

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We like to think of Long Island Sound as “ours.”

But — as Karen Como’s “Westport … Naturally” photo reminds us — humans were not here first.

(Photo/Karen Como)

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And finally … anyone who saw the 2012 Oscar-winning documentary “Searching for Sugar Man” knows that Rodriguez’s story is astonishing.

The Detroit musician wrote and sang haunting protest songs. But he never found an audience, and settled into a life as a laborer and office worker.

He was “discovered” in Australia however — and then, even more so, in South Africa during apartheid. According to the New York Times:

“To many of us South Africans, he was the soundtrack to our lives,” Stephen Segerman, owner of a Cape Town record store, said in the documentary.

“In the mid-’70s, if you walked into a random white, liberal, middle-class household that had a turntable and a pile of pop records, and if you flipped through the records, you would always see ‘Abbey Road’ by the Beatles, you’d always see ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ by Simon and Garfunkel, and you would always see ‘Cold Fact’ by Rodriguez. To us, it was one of the most famous records of all time. The message it had was ‘Be anti-establishment.’”

Astonishingly, Rodriguez did not know he had fervent fans in South Africa. Equally astonishingly, South Africans thought he was dead. One rumor was a drug overdose; another, that he had killed himself onstage.

In 1998, he was discovered — alive, and living in obscurity in Detroit. He was invited to South Africa, and played concerts at  sold-out venues.

He was “discovered” again more than a dozen years later, with the release of “Searching for Sugar Man” — a film about his strange but vibrant life.

Rodriguez — whose full name was Sixto Diaz Rodriguez — died Tuesday, in Detroit. He was 81.

Click here for a full obituary. Click below to hear Rodriguez.

(Have you recently discovered “06880”? Did you know we rely completely on reader support? Please click here to help. Thank you!)

21 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Entertainment, Environment, Local politics, Restaurants

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Homes With Hope: Two Heartfelt Tales

Posted on July 30, 2023 | 1 comment

Tacombi does not open until August 7.

But the much-anticipated restaurant has already made a great impression on Westport.

Tacombi Community Kitchen launched in 2020, during the early days of the pandemic. The goal was to provide food relief in New York City, where the restaurant began.

Today, under the auspices of the 501(c)(3) Tacombi Foundation, it provides over 9,000 meals weekly out of all 16 taquerias, in New York, Miami and Washington, DC.

They’ve given away over 750,000 meals to people in need. Each one is prepared specifically to be donated, with the same care as meals served to customers.

On Friday, Tacombi brought their generosity to Westport. They donated 50 meals to clients at Homes with Hope‘s Gillespie Center and Westport  Community Kitchen. They gave another 200 to other area organizations.

Tacombi meals, in the Homes with Hope kitchen.

“This is amazing,” says Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden.

“They are a truly welcomed partner to Westport. Our clients loved the food!”

Friday’s delivery was just the start. Tacombi will continue to provide Homes with Hope with 50 meals a week.

Imagine what they’ll do for the town once they’re actually in business here.

FUN FACT: The name “Tacombi” is a combination of “taco” and “combi” — what Mexicans call a VW bus. The restaurant started as a retrofitted combi, serving as a food truck selling tacos on the beaches at Playa del Carmen.

It’s been a big — and hopeful — few days for Homes with Hope. Yesterday, 4 important groups — Sunrise Rotary, the Westport Rotary Club, Westport Police Department and Saugatuck Rowing Club — joined forces at Stop & Shop for a perishable food collection.

Some folks donated cash. Others picked up a flyer listing most-needed items, purchased them, and dropped them off as they left.

One family — a woman and 2 young sons — came for only one reason: to shop for the Gillespie Center.

“How generous!” McAlinden says.

The generosity continued all day long. Homes with Hope thanks the hundreds of donors and volunteers who stood outside for hours in the heat.

In a town with plenty, there are plenty who give back.

Rob Hauck of Sunrise Rotary with a cart full of groceries, donated by a woman and her sons.

(Homes with Hope can always use help. Click here for information on its food pantry needs; click here for information on all its programs.)

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Posted in Local business, Police, Restaurants

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Roundup: jUNe Day, Redistricting, Ham Radio, Staples Class of ’73 …

Posted on June 24, 2023 | 5 comments

Jesup Green was hopping this morning.

Westport Sunrise Rotary was preparing for its Great Duck Race, with family-friendly activities all morning and afternoon.

Meanwhile, 200 guests arrived from the United Nations, for our town’s annual jUNe Day celebration.

Oh, yeah: the Westport Downtown Association’s Sidewalk Sale is on too.

The world is coming to Westport. And we’re happy to show everyone a good time!

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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There is only 1 discussion item on Monday’s Board of Education agenda (June 26, 5 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria): redistricting.

Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice will present the topic. No materials are yet available on the town website.

The meeting can be viewed on Optimum Channel 78, and by livestream here.

Population shifts have made Long Lots the largest elementary school in town. As work moves forward on renovations or a new school on the site, redistricting may also be on the table.

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Every June, more than 40,000 ham radio operators across the continent set up temporary transmitting stations in public places to demonstrate science, skill and service.

“Field Day” — an annual event since 1933 — combines public service, emergency preparedness, community outreach and technical skills.

The Westport Astronomical Society’s Amateur Radio Club K1WAS celebrates Field Day this weekend. They’ll contact as many stations as possible on the 80, 40, 20, 15 and 10 Meter HF bands today (Saturday, June 24, 2 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday,  June 25, 5 p.m.) at their ham shack (classroom) at the Observatory on Bayberry Lane.

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The Staples High School Class of 1973 is ready for their 50th reunion.

They’ll celebrate Friday, October 6 at 2 familiar spots: the Black Duck and Viva Zapata. Saturday, October 7 includes a golf outing and 1 p.m. party at Compo Beach. On Sunday, October 8 they’ll enjoy a 4 p.m. cocktail party at Bridgeport’s Fayerweather Yacht Club.

Email alisonhealy@yahoo.com, or click here for the Facebook page, for more details,

Staples High School looked like this, back in 1973. (Photo/Fred Cantor)

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It’s impossible not to love hummingbirds.

Marcella Lozyniak captured this one, in a rare stationary moment, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Marcella Lozyniak)

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And finally …. Sheldon Harnick, the lyricist of Broadway smash hits like “Fiddler on the Roof” and “Fiorello!,” died yesterday in Manhattan. He was 99. Click here for a full obituary.

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

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Posted in Education, Staples HS

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Sunny Days Remembered

Posted on June 11, 2023 | 4 comments

If it’s Westport in June, it must be Duck Time. Mark Mathias reports:

For years, the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club has presented The Great Duck Race. The big annual fundraiser raises money for charities.

Ralph Kreuger

But most people don’t know how the giant inflatable ducks came to become a Westport icon.

Ralph Kreuger — a long-time Sunrise Rotary member and master marketer –suggested in 2016 that the club buy a 30 foot tall inflatable duck to advertise The Great Duck Race. 

It was made in China and shipped across the Pacific Ocean, through the Panama Canal.

The club named the duck Sunny.

A 30-foot inflatable duck takes some serious wrangling, especially on water.  And it’s really hard to move. 

(Photo/Wendy Cusick)

For years Sunny floated on the Saugatuck River. He sometimes tipped over, sometimes blew away, but generally was a great sight for passersby.

People loved the duck. They loved taking pictures with Sunny.

(Photo/Audrey Sporre)

After a few years in charge of Sunny, Ralph died.

Sunrise Rotary wanted to continue the duck theme. So it purchased a smaller (relatively speaking) 12-foot duck.

The club honored Ralph’s memory and contributions by naming the new duck Little Ralphie.

Little Ralphie is what people see around town at the Memorial Day parade, and — leading up to The Great Duck Race — at various locations around Westport. 

Right now, he’s in front of the Kohler showroom on Post Road East.

The Great Duck Race is Saturday, June 24. Attendance is free. For a chance to win up to $5,000 and support charitable causes, tickets can be purchased from any Westport Sunrise Rotarian or online.

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Posted in Organizations

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Roundup: Clocks Ahead, CHEF Fund, Verso University …

Posted on March 11, 2023 | 19 comments

Tonight is the night we love to hate.

We lose an hour’s sleep — but we gain an hour of sunlight for the next 8 months. Set your clocks ahead for Daylight Saving Time.*

If you’re one of those who forgets between now and bedtime: Stick a Post-It note on the clock by your bed.

Sweet (if shortened) dreams!

* Yes, it’s officially daylight “saving,” not “savings.” Who knew?

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In the aftermath of the death of Matthew Balga — the chef killed on Riverside Avenue last Saturday night, after leaving work at The Whelk — his co-workers and family have organized a fundraiser. Money raised will support culinary education in Connecticut.

“Chef Matteo” had worked for For the Food restaurant owners Bill Taibe and Rachel Golan for over 18 years. Friends said he loved classic cars, played the guitar, had a sarcastic wit, and “most of all, was a loving man who loved to cook.”

The Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation (CHEF) is the non-profit philanthropic arm of the Connecticut Restaurant Association. It provides education for future restaurant industry professionals, workforce development opportunities and scholarships. Click here to contribute. (Hat tip: Westport Magazine)

Chef Matthew Balga

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The Westport Library offers plenty of innovative spaces and technologies, aimed at 21st century models of literacy and learning.

This spring, there will be more.

The Library is launching “Verso University.” The year-round series of high-level classes, workshops and lectures will further education and “learning for a lifetime.”

Offerings include one-time lectures, ongoing courses, and classes that meet weekly or monthly. They cover a wide variety of topics, with appeal to all ages and interests.

“Spring semester” includes

Launch Lecture: Martin Yellin on Space (Monday, March 13, 1 to 2 p.m.): Longtime Westporter and scientist Martin Yellin will provide an overview of the fascinating and unexpected discoveries made in space, and how we’ve begun to understand where we are and how we got here. Click here for more information.

The Range of Literary Realism: 4 Masterpieces of 21st Century Fiction, with Dr. Mark Schenker (Tuesdays, April 4 & 18, May 2 & 16, 2 to 3 p.m.): The noted lecturer in English at Yale University examines novels that reflect the range of literary realism as portrayed in 21st century fiction:

  • April 4: Wolf Hall, by Hilary Mantel
  • April 18: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, by Mark Haddon
  • May 2: Life After Life, by Kate Atkinson
  • May 16: Small Things Like These, by Claire Keegan

Got Problems? Think Them Through for Better Problem Solving! (May) Problem-solving coaches Mike Hibbard and Patricia Cyganovich will teach problem-solving processes to use in any area of life.

Fiction Writing Master Class, with Gabino Iglesias (May): Renowned noir writer and Westport Library StoryFest alum Gabino Iglesias teaches a master class-style writing workshop.

Crew Call (Rolling admission, spring through fall): Crew Call is a training program focused on live media production skills. Volunteers of all ages gain real-world experience in video recording and production. Crew Call participants support many Library productions.

Marty Yellin launches the Verso University series.

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The walk from Schlaet’s Point to Old Mill will soon look different.

254 Hillspoint Road has been approved for demolition.

It sold in January for $5 million.

254 Hillspoint Road

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Rowers love to hate the erg machine. That’s the fitness machine they use relentlessly on land.

But recently, junior members of Saugatuck Rowing Club eagerly jumped on board. The occasion: a “Row for Dough Erg-a-thon” fundraiser for Homes with Hope. The local non-profit provides supportive housing and a food pantry, in downtown Westport.

Both boys and girls teams participated in individual 10K races (over 6.2 miles), and raised over $6,500.

SRC junior rowers also volunteer at the Gillespie Center food pantry, and helping with other Homes with Hope projects.

Saugatuck Rowing Club captains (from left): Jack Kiely, Lauren Schramm, Hannah Clemens, Dylan Halky, Cooper Levinson, Janna Moore.

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In 14 years of photos showing entitled parkers, “06880” has shown Range Rovers, BMWs, Jeeps, and just about every other make and model of car.

We’ve never called out a motorcycle, though.

There’s a reason: They can park just about anywhere.

Except like this:

Yesterday, at Wakeman Field. (Photo/Gery Grove)

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Speaking of stuff that shouldn’t be there:

Sal Liccione sends along this picture …

… and a note: “It’s been there for 3 weeks.”

I assume he’s talking about the garbage, not the car. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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Over 200 fans filled the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum for last night’s Blue Coupe concert. The band includes former Alice Cooper guitarist Dennis Dunaway, and Joe and Albert Bouchard of Blue Öyster Cult.

The event — a benefit for VersoFest, the music and media festival that kicks off March 30 — was co-produced by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

They’re collaborating on upcoming shows too, including Verso Fest‘s Sunflower Bean (March 30), the Smithereens (March 31) and the Johnny Folsom 4 at “Supper & Soul” (May 13).

Blue Coupe, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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Connecticut Attorney General William Tong got up early yesterday, for an important session: He addressed the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club’s meeting at Greens Farms Church.

Tong discussed his role as the chief civil attorney for the state, including notable litigation on tobacco, opioids and gun control.

Attorney General William Tong at Westport Sunrise Rotary. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Last night’s “Teens at MoCA” Film Showcase drew a good crowd to the Newtown Turnpike space.

More than a dozen teenagers screened films they made — each 5 minutes or less. The event — and a raffle — benefited the Teens at MoCA group.

Ava Waldman of Teens at MoCA introduces a film. (Photo/Cynthia Dempster)

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Westport author Elaine Clayton’s “The Way of the Empath” was just named one of the Best Spiritual Books of 2022, by Spirituality & Practice.

A wide range of topics and religions make up the list. Click here to see.

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Spotted at Compo Beach, and very appropriate for our “Westport … Naturally” feature: a “sea turtle.”

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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And finally … in honor of the very entitled dude who doesn’t know how to park  his motorcycle (story above):

(Two important things to do before bed tonight: 1) Turn your clocks ahead; 2) Thank “06880” for reminding you. Please click here to make a contribution. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Grand List, Nomade, Antarctica …

Posted on February 7, 2023 | 6 comments

How grand is the Grand List?

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker discusses that important financial document — what it is, how it’s grown, how it helps fund town services, and what it all means to residents — on the latest “Westport … What’s Happening?” podcast.

Click below to listen. The series is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Connecticut Magazine’s “Best New Restaurants” list is out.

And the statewide winner — in the “Readers’ Choice” poll — is Nômade.

The Main Street spot with the international menu did not make the “Experts’ Picks” list.

But what do they know?

Click here for the full poll.

Nomade

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Just in time for the Super Bowl, the Westport Police Department and Westport Sunrise Rotary Club are sponsoring a “Souper Bowl of Caring” food drive. All donations support Homes with Hope, and Westport’s Department of Human Services food pantries.

Non-perishable foods can be brought to Stop & Shop this Saturday (February 11, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Can’t make it then? Hammer & Nails — the new men’s grooming lounge at 606 Post Road East — is accepting food donations all week long.

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Westporters love to travel. Some have climbed Mount Everest; many roam far and wide. But visiting all 7 continents is still quite rare.

Last month, 3 Westporters completed their quest to visit all 7 continents.

Rick and Totney Benson, and Mark Mathias, visited both South America and Antarctica, qualifying us for membership in the 7 Continent Club.

Mathias was with his wife Kim. That’s her 6th continent; she’s missing only Australia.

They were with one group. Meanwhile, the Bensons traveled with Wilton-based Tauck Tours.

They found out about each other when the Bensons arrived in Buenos Aires, and saw Mathias’ name on a card from someone picking them up at the airport.

It’s a small world indeed. But, as Stephen Wright said, I wouldn’t want to have to paint it.

Rick and Totney Benson in Antarctica …

… and Mark and Kim Mathias, with friends.

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And — because “06880” truly is “Where Westport meets the world” — here is another local story from Antarctica. Bill Kutik writes:

“I love adventure travel. I just rode an expedition ship from the southern tip of South America, hugging the coast of Antarctica, and finishing near the southern tip of New Zealand.

“It took 30 days to get from the Western Hemisphere to the Eastern Hemisphere under the bottom of the earth. Despite being upside down the whole time, we didn’t fall off once!

“An intrepid hiker (and founding editor of Backpacker magazine in 1972), I had to tour New Zealand’s famous mountains used in the movies Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Power of the Dog.’ Here’s a photo of me from Fiordland National Park on the southwest coast (fresh from the helicopter).

Bill Kutik above Doubtful Bay.

“But my heart was captured by this eager, welcoming sign outside Westport, New Zealand. It’s a former port town — just like us.”

Bill Kutik in Westport — New Zealand.

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Expanding our horizons even beyond Antarctica: “Our galaxy was a quasar.”

That’s the topic for the next Westport Astronomical Society lecture. This one — with Professor Joshua Tan of LaGuardia Community College — is live, in the WAS classroom (February 21, 8 p.m.).

This will be Tan’s third appearance at the Astronomical Society. An optical astronomer, he studies short-period binary millisecond pulsars, open problems in binary modeling, neutron star physics, and 3-body dynamics.

Joshua Tan

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Each year, Westport middle and high school students rock the National History Day competition.

They do it thanks to beyond-the-call help from their teachers — and extra attention from community members, who help students through the research and writing process.

Dr. Lauren Francese, townwide social studies coordinator, invites community members to help in a new capacity this year: as judges in the Fairfield County regional competition (Saturday, March 18, Sacred Heart University).

Judges do not need to be history or education experts. What’s needed is engaged, empathetic feedback to students on their papers, websites, museum exhibits, performances, and documentaries). Training is provided to all volunteers the morning of the event.

Click here to sign up as a judge. Questions? Email tony48nhd@gmail.com.

The Bedford Middle School National History Day team, at the 2018 national competition.

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Hey! It’s Henry Hey!

The keyboardist — who has toured and recorded with David Bowie, George Michael and Rod Stewart, and served as musical director for Kennedy Center extravaganzas — headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (February 9, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $15 cover).

Hey will be joined by Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall, Dave Richards and Jason Tiemann. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

Henry Hey

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After 2 weeks, bagels are still sitting on High Gate Road.

Chris Grimm reports on the scene, off Maple Avenue South: “The 2 piles have been joined by a smaller, breakaway third pile, to the left, while a few to the far left seem to be trying to flee. Behind the larger pile to the right seem to be a large number of casualties.”

(Photo/Chris Grimm)

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A full moon brings out a full complement of “06880” photographers.

This one was captured by Rick Leonard, on Wright Street. Naturally, it’s today’s “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Rick Leonard)

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And finally … in honor of Mark and Kim Mathias, Rick and Totney Benson, Bill Kutik, and anyone else who has traveled the world (see stories above):

(From Connecticut to New Zealand, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please click here, to continue helping us do all that we do. Thank you!) 

 

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Roundup: Saugatuck, RTM, Health …

Posted on January 7, 2023 | 3 comments

Over 100 people hoped to join Thursday’s Westport Representative Town Meeting’s Planning & Zoning Committee session on the text and map amendments that may lead to the redevelopment of Saugatuck.

The RTM Zoom link could handle only 100 guests. The meeting was canceled — and a new Zoom maximum set, of 500 attendees.

Meetings have been rescheduled for Tuesday and Thursday, January 10 and 12, at 6:30 p.m. Click here for the link.

The RTM’s Transit Committee will also meet on those dates and times, to discuss Saugatuck. Click here for the link.

In related news, members of the RTM Planning & Zoning Committee joined principals for the proposed Hamlet at Saugatuck project and other Westporters on a field trip to the site yesterday.

RTM members and others tour Saugatuck. They’re at the Morton’s parking lot, behnd Tarantino. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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In other RTM news: the non-partisan legislative body seeks candidates to fill the District 6 vacancy created by the death of Cathy Talmadge.

Residents of RTM District 6 interested in filling the vacancy should send a resume by January 20 to Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton: JDunkerton@westportct.gov.

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No parent ever wants to hear: “Your child has cancer.”

Liz Vega and Tracy Cramer described their journeys yesterday, to members of Westport’s Sunrise Rotary Club.

Both women are from Circle of Care, a local non-profit helping families whose children battle cancer. Since 2003, the group has provided nearly $5 million in direct support.

The women offered sobering statistics — and inspiring stories — from their own lives, and those that Circle of Care has helped.

At yesterday’s Sunrise Rotary Club meeting (from left): Steven Chin (Rotary), Tracey Cramer and Liz Vega (Circle of Care), Bruce Paul (Rotary). (Photo/Mark Mathias)

 

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Speaking of health: The Westport-based Shmaruk family non-profit PCT4PC recently presented a $50,000 check to the Norwalk Hospital Foundation. The donation supports pancreatic cancer early detection research conducted by Dr. Richard Frank, oncologist/hematologist and director of clinical cancer research at Norwalk Hospital.

The Shmaruk family formed PCT4PC in 2021 when Ben Shmaruk, now 23, set out to hike the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail to raise money for pancreatic cancer research.

He honored his father Alan, who was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in 2019. Ben’s sister Julianna, 21, managed social media accounts detailed the hike.  To learn more about PCT4PC,  please visit PCT4PC.com.

Alan Shmaruk died last, after living for nearly 3 years with the deadly disease.  He is remembered at Norwalk Hospital for his unrelenting and inspirational positive. An exam room will be named in his honor at the Norwalk Hospital Whittingham Cancer Center.

(From left): Ben, Julianna and Dawn Shmaruk, and Dr. Richard Frank.

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The photographer of this handsome red-tailed hawk asked to remain anonymous.

But, he said of his “Westport … Naturally” photo: The magnificent bird let him get within 10 feet, without flinching.

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And finally … on this day in 1894,  Thomas Edison made a kinetoscopic film of someone sneezing. Also today his employee, William Kennedy Dickson, received a patent for motion picture film.

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(What’s more fun than the movies? Reading “06880”! Please click here to support this entertainment. Thank you.)

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Roundup: Candlelight, Sue Pfister, Black Plastic …

Posted on December 17, 2022 | 6 comments

The Staples High School Music Department celebrated the holiday season last night with its 82nd annual Candlelight Concert.

It was stunning.

The choral symphonic and jazz ensembles awed the full auditorium with their voices and musicianship. The program — from the traditional, lovely “Sing We Noel” through the stunning “Nutcracker Suite,” rousing “Jubilate Deo” and clever production number, to the powerful “Home Alone Suite” and rousing “Hallelujah Chorus” finale — was both proof that our town’s young artists are very alive, quite well (and superbly well-trained), and that even in times of uncertainty and division, all can be right in Westport.

Thanks to all who produced and participated in last night’s Candlelight. Two more (sold-out) concerts continue today.

The “Sing We Noel” processional. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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It’s still hard to believe Sue Pfister is retiring.

The beloved Senior Center director has spent 36 years serving Westport with plenty of kindness, tons of care and tremendous competence.

The town gets a chance to say goodbye and share memories on Wednesday, December 28. An open house (1:30 to 4:30 p.m.) is set for her beloved Senior Center.

Can’t make it? Drop in virtually. Just click here; the passcode is “retirement.”

And once again: Thank you, Sue!

Sue Pfister

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Did you know that black plastic can’t be recycled?*

So what can you do?

Bring your washed, clean, black plastic takeout food containers (and matching lids) to the Westport Farmers’ Market the next 2 Thursdays (December 22 and 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, 7 Sylvan Lane).

Food containers will be used by Fridgeport Outdoor Food Pantry to repackage large trays of donated prepared foods into smaller portions for people facing food insecurity. Many recipients reuse the containers many times over.

The event is co-sponsored by Sustainable Westport and Food Rescue CT

*Why can’t black plastic be recycled? Optical sorting systems used to sort recycling cannot identify it as “plastic.” When black plastic is placed incorrectly with other items it contaminates the overall recycling stream reducing its value. In addition, black plastic has a hazardous level of toxins that increase in the recycling center. So whenever you can: Refuse or reuse black plastic!

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¡Felicidades! to José “Feliz Navidad” Feliciano and his wife Susan.

The longtime Weston residents are the proud grandparents of twin grandsons. Their daughter Melissa and her husband Charles announce the birth of Theodore “Theo” Jose and Beau William Erickson.

They arrived 5 weeks early, weighing 3.13 and 6.02 pounds respectively.

They’re home and thriving, with Theo coming home on his mother’s birthday.

José and Susan say: “The Feliciano and Erickson families are blessed, and thrilled beyond words. So many prayers offered by so many good and loving people … we are incredibly grateful.”

Proud grandparents Jose and Susan Feliciano.

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The bar for our Entitled Parkers feature is extremely high. Usually, someone hogging 2 spaces won’t make the cut. “06880” readers demand something even more egregious: 3 spaces perhaps, or a vehicle completely covering a sidewalk.

But this Very Important Person takes today’s (Trader Joe’s) cake.

He — and you know it’s a guy —

  • Takes not just 2 spots, but they’re both handicap reserved.
  • He doesn’t appear to have a handicap placard.
  • Just look at what he’s driving.

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Speaking of driving: We’re not sure how this car managed to get where it is — the grass near Cabin 1 at Longshore.

But it doesn’t hurt to remind everyone: Be careful out there.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

Andrew Colabella — who was driving (carefully) by — reports that the driver was okay.

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Westport Sunrise Rotary’s guest speaker yesterday was Lexi Shereshewsky.

Founder and Executive Director of the Azraq Education and Community Fund (formerly The Syria Fund) — a non-profit providing education programs and hands-on humanitarian aid to Syrian refugees and other vulnerable families living in Jordan — she’s no stranger to the group. Sunrise Rotary is a longtime supporter.

Lexi Shereshewsky and Rick Jaffe, past president of Westport Sunrise Rotary.

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Thursday was wet and windy.

But on Friday — yesterday morning — our Public Works crew was out early, cleaning Compo Beach.

It’s the kind of thing most people don’t notice, on a December weekday.

But Sunil Hirani did.  Here’s his photo:

(Photo/Sunil HIrani)

Thanks to all the often-unseen workers, who make this town what it is.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows Friday’s nasty weather, as seen at Compo Beach.

The weekend forecast is nicer: partly cloudy skies today, sunny tomorrow. Temperatures will be in the high 30s and low 40s.

It’s a great time to get your shopping done. Or head to the beach.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … we don’t have video of last night’s “Candlelight Concert” (copyright issues prevent its recording and posting).

But here’s a wonderful version of one of its centerpieces, performed by a community choral ensemble in South Carolina:

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Staples HS, Teenagers

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