Tag Archives: Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service

Roundup: Anti-Racism Protest, Joanne Woodward, Linxweiler House …

Posted on February 27, 2024 | 7 comments

A few dozen protesters stood quietly on North Avenue this morning, protesting reports of racial incidents at Staples High School across the street.

The crowd included students and adults. Some parents joined the crowd after dropping their youngsters off at school.

Many held signs. One summed up the feeling of the protesters: “Racism is unacceptable.”

(Photo/Ruby Kantor for Inklings)

(Photo/Ruby Kantor for Inklings)

(Photo/Kevin McLaughlin)

(Photo/Kevin McLaughlin)

(Photo/Kevin McLaughlin)

(Photo/Lily Rimm)

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Happy 94th birthday to a Westport icon: Joanne Woodward.

Over 60 years on stage and television she won an Academy Award, 3 Primetime Emmys, and 3 Golden Globes, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. She is one of the last surviving stars from the Golden Age of Hollywood, and the oldest living Best Actress Oscar-winner.

Just as importantly, she — and her husband, Paul Newman — contributed mightily to the civic life of Westport.

Whether helping save the Westport Country Playhouse or dishing up popcorn at the Westport Historical Society, Joanne Woodward made our town a better place.

Thank you, Joanne. Have a great day!

The happy couple, near their home.

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Among the items at the next Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (Monday, March 4, 7 p.m.; Zoom, and Optimum channel 79 and Frontier channel 6020): a request from First Selectwoman Jen Tooker to temporarily amend the lease at 655 Post Road East (the Linxweiler house, between McDonald’s and Fresh Market) to allow Gillespie Center clients to be housed and supported there temporarily, during renovation of the downtown homeless shelter.

Click here for the full agenda, and additional materials.

Linxweiler House, on Post Road East.

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Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service president Mike Burns gave an in-depth, eye-opening look at the most recent Y’s Women meeting.

Many members were surprised to learn that the 45-year-old non-profit relies entirely on donations. The 75 EMS volunteers — who respond in 7 minutes or less to everything from strokes, seizures and births to accidents on I-95 and the Merritt Parkway (and even incidents on Metro-North) pay for all their own supplies: heart monitors, gurneys ($70,000 each), and ambulances.

WVEMS’ 3 ambulances are 10 years old. The first of 2 new ones will arrive next year — at a cost of $450,000.

All donations are welcome (83% are less than $100); click here.

WVEMS president Mike Burns, at the Y’s Women meeting. (Photo/Jilda Manikas)

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Westport resident Tom Kretsch spent his career as a teacher in the Norwalk schools.

And for almost 40 years he’s been involved with that city’s partnership with Nagarote, Nicaragua. They’ve created and run a community development project that provides opportunities for young people and families to improve their economic and educational lives.

A benefit cabaret — “Spring Into Song” — is set for Sunday, March 24 (5:30 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club).

Attendees can bring food and drink to share at small tables before the music begins. Nine great vocalists — including Westporters Michelle Pauker, Bill Hall and Emily Hall Stevens, and Charlotte Roth of Weston — are donating their talents. They’ll sing tunes from Broadway shows, original music and other covers.

For more information and tickets ($50), email kretscht@yahoo.com.

Michelle Pauker (Photo/Brynn Owen)

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Trumpeter Andy Gravish plays the music of Hank Mobley and Lee Morgan — 2 iconic musicians of the “hard bop school” — at this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (February 29; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $20 music cover charge, $15 for veterans and students).

Gravish performs at top international jazz festival, and has been the featured soloist with the Village Vanguard Orchestra, Toshiko Akiyoshi/Lew Tabackin Big Band, Paquito D’Rivera and many others.

Joining Gravish are pianist Michael Cochrane, bassist Essiet Essiet, drummer Steve Johns, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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It’s been 15 years since the Staples High School Class of 1974 had a reunion.

Now they’re ready for their 50th. And members of adjacent classes — with friends among the ’74 graduates — are invited too.

It’s the weekend of October 18-20. There’s a Friday night social at the VFW, a Saturday night main event with dinner and dancing (and the class’ Mark Santella as DJ) at the Westport Woman’s Club, then Sunday at the Compo Beach Ned Dimes Marina.

Click here for details, and tickets.

Class of 1974 member Alix Land in Long Beach Peninsula, Washington. She lives in Portland, Oregon.

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Lost your license plate?

Someone found it, and propped it up against the post office flagpole:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Kevin LaForce.

He writes: “I saw this beauty trot across the top of Hillspoint Road on Sunday. I tracked him/her to the back of Loretta Court. Pretty cool.”

(Photo/Kevin LaForce)

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And finally … sharing a birthday with Joanne Woodward (story above) is Josh Groban. Happy 43rd birthday, to the platinum-selling singer.

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

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Posted in Entertainment, Local politics, Staples HS

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Roundup: EMS $$$, Deadman Brook …

Posted on December 28, 2023 | 12 comments

Many organizations are sending please-help, end-of-the-year fundraising appeals.

All are worthy of consideration.

One is especially important for Westporters.

Most residents have no idea that Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service relies almost entirely on donations.

That’s right: The men, women (and teenagers!) who respond to over 2,300 calls a year, providing outstanding care to people who live here, work here, visit here and pass through here (that’s you, accident victims on I-95 and the Merritt), must also spend time raising nearly every penny they need.

What do your dollars pay for?

●    Replacing their 10-year-old ambulances with state-of-the-art vehicles — and stocking it with crucial medical equipment. It’s true: EMS pays not only for ambulances, but for everything from the heart monitors and gurneys to the Band-Aids in them.

●    Continuing to educate thousands of citizens in CPR – and certifying them as Emergency Medical Responders/Emergency Medical Technicians.

●   Ensuring that EMS is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year (366, in 2024).

Westporters are very generous to EMS. Many (though certainly not all) donate after appreciating the calm, compassionate — and extremely professional — care they receive after a 911 call. Others contribute, knowing that if they ever do need EMS, their dollars will help.

But despite that support, EMS is still short of its goal.

That’s why they’re appealing for tax-deductible funds before the end of the year. They welcome one-time contributions, or monthly sustaining gifts. Click here to help.

It’s a cliché to say “have a happy, safe and healthy new year.” EMS wishes that for all Westport residents, visitors and passing through persons.

But if you don’t have one, they’ll be there for you.

Providing, that is, that you help provide for them.

Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service pays for all the equipment in their ambulances — and the vehicles themselves.

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It’s not quite flood conditions.

But Deadman Brook downtown was higher than usual this morning, following a steady rain.

(Photos/Sal Liccione)

The rain will end soon. Showers may return late today.

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Today’s intriguing “Westport … Naturally” photo was taken by Michael Chait, at Burying Hill Beach. The view is toward Sherwood Island State Park.

(Photo/Michael Chait)

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And finally … Tom Smothers, the older, seemingly ditzier but actually more politically minded half of the Smothers Brothers comedy duo, died Tuesday at his home in Santa Rosa, California. He was 86, and had recently been diagnosed with cancer. Click here for a full obituary.

Click below for a typical routine:

Click below for Pete Seeger’s 1968 performance of “Waist Deep in the Big Muddy,” on the “Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” — in the midst of the Vietnam War — that got them canceled by CBS:

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Posted in Downtown, Weather

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Roundup: Westoberfest, Roy Wood Jr., Flooding …

Posted on October 15, 2023 | 3 comments

Sure, it was a wet Saturday.

But a little rain can’t keep a good Westoberfest down.

The annual Westport Downtown Association event went on yesterday, with the usual beer, music, beer, kids activities, and beer.

We’ll drink to that!

(All photos/Susan Garment)

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Also last night: The annual “Stand up for Homes with Hope” benefit.

A full crowd packed Fairfield University’s Quick Center to laugh uproariously with Roy Wood Jr., and raise much-needed funds for Westport’s supportive shelter and food pantry non-profit.

Laughter and homelessness don’t often go together. But the star of the night — and Helen McAlinden and the many board and staff members who make Homes with Hope a local treasure — made sure attendees understood that connections between all of us are the most important thing in life.

Roy Wood Jr. (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

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Flooding is a major issue in Westport. As climate change worsens, it too will became even more prevalent.

The Flood & Erosion Control Board meets November 1. On the agenda:

  • Prioritize and assist the Department of Public Works in the approval and implementation of flood related projects involving watersheds in Westport.
  • Work with the Representative Town Meeting to revise regulations, allowing the board to review large projects if required, and educate the RTM about public input related to flooding.
  • Dedicate a minimum of 2 public discussion meetings per year to discuss updates on flood projects.
  • Develop and implement a campaign to help educate the public about flood and erosion issues in Westport.
  • Develop and implement a plan to educate the community on ways to help mitigate the impact of flooding and erosion on private and public properties.
  • Advocate for supporting the town mitigation efforts by sharing the board’s perspective with the Board of Finance, state legislative leaders, and Department of Energy & Environmental Protection officials.

The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for the Zoom link. The meeting ID is 892 4707 8896; the passcode is 900470.

Grove Point flooding, from a December storm. (Photo/John Kantor)

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Saranda and Al Strazza are very involved with Veterans of Foreign Wars Joseph J. Clinton Post 399. Al — a retired combat Marine who served in the first Gulf War — is now vice commander of the local VFW. Saranda helped obtain a $100,000 gift, to pay for river dredging in the area.

This Friday (October 20, 6 p.m.), the VFW hosts a Chili Cook-off. The participation fee is $15. Funds raised will benefit Westport’s Police and Fire Departments, and Emergency Medical Services.

There are prizes, a 50/50 raffle — and of course chili.

While participating in the Citizen Police Academy, Saranda and Al were surprised to learn that the local K-9 unit is completely funded by donations.

They vowed to help raise funds for a new bite jacket, medical costs, food, equipment supplies and training toys.

A booth at the Chili Cook-off will sell plush toys for sale, and collect donations.

For more information, call 203-227-6796, or email vfw399ct@gmail.com.

Westport’s K-9 corps.

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October is both Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Fire Safety Month.

So — of course! — on Friday the Westport Fire Department brought fire trucks and pink fire boots to Kings Highway Elementary school, for an all-school event.

Fire Marshal Terry Dunn spoke to students about fire safety. Meanwhile, his fellow firefighters collected donations from students for the American Cancer Society. Students filled the pink boots with more than $475.

After listening to the fire safety speech, students, teachers and administrators explored a vintage fire truck. ‘

They also placed pink ribbons in the back of the school, as a symbol of support for those impacted by breast cancer.

Kings Highway Elementary School administrators, in a vintage fire truck. From front to back: principal Tracey Carbone, assistant principals Catherine Carmona and Jame’el Lawrence.

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Also on Friday, the Norwalk Housing Authority brought students to the Westport Community Gardens for after-school art enrichment.

Creativity “bloomed,” as NHS and WCG adults watched with pride.

Friday fun, in the Westport Community Gardens.

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The Westport Woman’s Club’s annual Clothing Tag Sale runs this Friday and Saturday (October 20-21) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday (October 22) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the WWC’s historic clubhouse (44 Imperial Avenue).

Gently used women’s, men’s and children’s clothing and accessories are featured, with a wide variety of suits, dresses, pants, blouses, gowns, coats, scarves, shoes, jewelry, handbags and hats.

Funds raised help support the town’s food closet, many charities throughout Fairfield County, and student scholarships.

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Rolling Stone magazine just listed their 250 best guitarists of all time.

There at #7 — behind Jimi Hendrix, Chuck Berry, Jimmy Page, Eddie Van Halen, Jeff Beck and Sister Rosetta Tharpe, but ahead of artists like BB King and Duane Allman — is Westport’s own Nile Rodgers.

The story begins:

There’s “influential,” then there’s “massively influential,” then there’s Nile Rodgers. The story of pop music over the past 50 years is basically the story of Rodgers’ guitar.

The manic-staccato funk jangle he invented with Chic, in Seventies disco hits like “Le Freak” and “Good Times” — that’s been the heartbeat of global pop ever since.

His warp-speed guitar on the 1980 Diana Ross classic “I’m Coming Out” was still the toughest sound on the radio almost two decades later, when Biggie turned it into “Mo Money Mo Problems.” Now that’s staying power.

Click here for the full story.

PS: Weston’s own Keith Richards checks in at #15.

Should we start calling our 2 towns the Guitarists’ Capital of the World?

(Hat tip: Mark Mathias)

Nile Rodgers, at the Queen’s Jubilee. (Photo/Ellen Wentworth)

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Jack Backiel is a frequent commenter on “06880.” He no longer lives here, but he has fond memories of the years his family owned Westport Lanes — the bowling alley located where BevMax is today.

Jack’s son John recently added a small display about the Lanes in his dining room. It includes newspaper clippings, stationery, and a photo of opening day (with professional bowlers, sent by Brunswick).

John lives in the Washington area, and is vice president of finance and accounting at the Heritage Foundation.

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High on the cell tower behind Walgreens, Johanna Keyser Rossi counted 20 turkey vultures. And a few crows.

It takes an eagle eye to sport them. But they’re all part of “Westport … Naturally.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … let’s hear it for our neighbor Nile Rodgers, the 7th greatest guitarist in the world! (See story above …)

(From floods and the Fire Department to Nile Rodgers and Keith Richards, we’ve got 06880 [and 06883] covered. Please click here to support local journalism. Thank you!)

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Roundup: AquaFit, Crabbing, River of Roses …

Posted on September 27, 2023 | 5 comments

Westport has been the setting for many films.

But forget “The Gray Flannel Suit,” “The Swimmer” and “The Stepford Wives.”

My favorite is “Below Surface.”

The 20-minute documentary focuses on an unlikely subject: the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s AquaFit program.

Yet thanks to Patty Kondub — the energetic, creative and much-loved instructor who is the heart and soul of both the program and the film — the camaraderie, joy and, yes, life-saving experience that is AquaFit come vividly to life.

Dick Rauh — 96 years young — describes what the class has done for him. So do others, of many ages and from 4 continents. Patty melds them all into a young-feeling, tight-knit group that fulfills the Y’s dual mission of promoting healthy living and creating community.

AquaFit helped Patty herself through a dark time of her life, which she describes movingly.

But “Below Surface” is bright and alive — just like those morning classes. The cinematography makes it shine.

The film has been screened at festivals around the country, and won the “Next Great Filmmaker Award” at the Berkshires International Film Festival. It will be shown October 19 (noon, New Haven Public Library) at the New Haven Documentary Film Festival.

Now through October 1, you can watch it for free, thanks to the virtual World Peace Film Festival. Just click here.

It will be the most uplifting 19 minutes of your week.

(For the “06880” back story on “Below Surface,” click here.)

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The start of tomorrow’s Long Lots School Building Committee meeting has been changed.

The new time is 6 p.m. (it was originally 6:30). That’s Thursday, September 28, in Town Hall Room 201/201A.

It’s a 6 p.m. start tomorrow for the Long Lots School Building Committee.

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Conservation Director Colin Kelly has responded to complaints about crabbing at Sherwood Mill Pond. He says:

“The Westport Conservation Department reminds Westport residents that the act of crabbing is allowed and is covered by Connecticut Department of Engergy and Environmental Protection fishing regulations.

“People have the legal right to access state waters and fish for Blue Crab. The taking of Blue Crab requires no license, and there is no daily limit during the open season from May1 – November 30. The Conservation Office does not regulate the taking of crabs from the pond. The Sherwood Mill Pond Advisory Committee and the Shellfish Commission do not have authority to restrict the crabbing either.

“To clarify, this does not mean the Town has ignored the public requests for checking the crabbing. In fact, the Westport Police Department have conducted more than 50 patrols of Sherwood Mill Pond this summer. They have interacted with the individuals who are crabbing, they have actively provided education, and they have checked the catches to ensure proper measurements are being followed.

“The officers have used Infrared cameras to confirm that individuals were taking crabs and that any clams they have seen were dumped. They have worked individually and in conjunction with CT DEEP Encon Police. Officers have been proactive in responding to calls and will continue to provide our Town with this response.

“We want to inform the public that over 70 parking tickets have been issued along Hillspoint Road and the Old Mill parking lot in the last few weeks. One night alone had over 30 parking tickets issued. The Police Department will continue their oversight, including adding additional tactics in the future, to ensure that the laws are followed.”

Crabbing at Sherwood Mill Pond.

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For several years, Saugatuck Rowing Club has commemorated loved ones lost to breast cancer — and raised funds for survivors — by turning the Saugatuck River pink.

Literally.

Names are read aloud, and rose petals scattered into the Saugatuck River. They’re then swept out to sea.

This year’s “River of Roses” charity soirée is set for Sunday (October 1, 1 to 4 p.m.; ceremony at 3).

The $75 ticket includes  (of course) rosé cocktails, raw bar, charcuterie, lobster and pumpkin bisque, clam chowder, apple crisp, Donut Crazy and a cash bar, plus live music by Fake ID.

Proceeds support SurviveOAR, the empowering, supportive community that provides mental, physical and emotional healing to women with breast cancer after traditional treatment ends.

Six members will be compete in Head of the Charles race next month.

Click here for tickets, or to buy roses ($25 each). Click below, for highlights of the 2019 event.

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Parents of children with special needs have plenty to think about.

Including finances.

Westporter Kimberly Greenberg — a Morgan Stanley vice president — leads a free breakfast seminar for parents and caregivers, called “Protecting the Future for Your Child With Special Needs.”

Financial experts will share first-hand experiences on October 3 (9:30 a.m., STAR, 182 Wolfpit Avenue, Norwalk_. Tours of the renovated STAR center, including the new assistive technology lab and lending library, are also available.

To reserve a spot, or for more information, email ahenry@starct.org.

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This event has flown under the radar. But it’s an important one.

Tomorrow (Thursday, September 28, 10 a.m., Westport Library), Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, state Commissioner of Veterans Affairs Ronald Welch and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will recognize the service of Westport veterans who served during the Vietnam War era.

There will be a color guard, national anthem, and more.

Staples High School graduate Tim Barmmer was killed in Vietnam. He is memorialized at Veterans Green, across from Town Hall.

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Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service’s Jenna Baumblatt has been named Connecticut’s 2023 EMS Youth Corps Member of the Year.

The 18-year-old joined WVEMS as an Emergency Medical Responder 4 years ago, and is now an Emergency Medical Technician. She also serves on the WVEMS board of directors.

EMS runs deep in her family. Her dad Rick is a WVEMS staff paramedic; her mom Lynn is a paramedic at Norwalk Hospital EMS, and her brother James is an EMT in Bridgeport.

WVEMS president Michael Burns calls Jenna “an amazing person and caregiver who maintains multiple jobs, in addition to her volunteer service. She is an amazing asset!”

Jenna Baumblatt

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Pam Rouleau is running a fundraiser with Nuvance Health for the Integrative Medicine Department at the Smilow Breast Cancer Center.

She photographed 13 people who have battled cancer — or still are — and depicted them along with their stories of survivorship.

Several members of the Saugatuck Rowing Club’s “SurviveOARS” team are included. Rouleau is a Survive-OARS rower too.

A reception is set for October 3, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the State Capitol in Hartford. It will then be on view through October 30. Click here for details.

Kimberly Wilson, Westport resident and Saugatuck SurviveOARS member.

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Grammy Award-winning pianist Dave Kikoski headlines tomorrow’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, September 28, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399).

Kikoski is known for his adept post-bop style and spontaneous swinging play. He has worked with artists like Roy Haynes, Joe Henderson, Ron Carter, Al Foster, Bob Berg, Michael and Randy Brecker, Chris Potter and others.

He’ll be joined by bassist Yuriy Galkin, drummer Vinnie Sperazza and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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Enjoy a trivia night — virtually, and for a great cause.

Tomorrow (Thursday, September 28, 7 p.m.), Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County hosts “Quiz for a Cause.” All proceeds support arts education for children, primarily those with special needs.

First prize is 2 round trip airline tickets, from Avelo Airlines. Second prize is a gift from Westporter Christian Siriano’s The Collective West. Third prize is 5 private music lessons at Neighborhood Studios.

Participants are asked for a minimum donation of $45. Click here to register, and for more information.

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Maintenance and upkeep of Baron’s South has gone to the birds.

So it’s not surprising that a flock of turkeys has taken over Golden Shadows, the “mansion” once occupied by Baron Walter Langen von Langendorff and his wife.

Morley Boyd spotted them, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Morley Boyd)

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And finally … today is the 120th anniversary of “the wreck of the old 97.” The mail train crash was not the worst rail disaster ever — though 11 people died, and 7 more were injured — but it lives on, thanks to folks like Johnny Cash.

(“06880” loves delivering news like today’s lead story, about Patty Kondub’s AquaFit movie. If you love the news “06880” delivers, please click here to support local journalism. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Police, YMCA

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Roundup: School Security, Daryl Hall, DPIC …

Posted on August 25, 2023 | 7 comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One view of the obstructed view …

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

… and another.

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

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

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

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

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

Daryl Hall

Todd Rundgren (Photos/Les Dinkin)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mandy Patinkin

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

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

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

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

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

DNR

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A new school year starts Tuesday.

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

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

We get it. You were proud. Congratulations!

Now let’s move on …

Graduation is over! (Photo/Dan Woog)

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

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

MDSolarSciences representatives, and Westport firefighters.

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

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

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

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

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

Howard Matson, with octogenarian circumnavigators.

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

But Mary Sikorski was up early, and captured it:

(Photo/Mary Sikorski)

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

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

 

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

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Roundup: Cans, Downtown Charette, Jodi & Scott …

Posted on August 22, 2023 | 8 comments

On Sunday, Tom Kretsch and his wife Sandi headed to Compo’s South Beach, by the trees near the kayak launch.

A large group of Staples High School students and parents were setting up for an end-of-summer/start-of-school bash.

Not far away Tom saw a woman with a baby on her back, and 2 other kids tagging along. She stopped at every trash can, gathering cans for redemption.

She halted for a bit, to watch the picnic. Someone came over, with pizza for her and her children.

A few minutes later the woman continued walking, and picking through the trash.

(Photos/Tom Kretsch)

“It was quite a contrast, seeing someone scrounging for cans on our beach, and other people enjoying life on the beach,” Tom says.

“I wondered how she got there, with 3 kids and those heavy bags. What a world of haves and have-nots.

I’ve never seen anything like that on Compo Beach. On we journey, counting our blessings.”

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A reminder: Tonight (Tuesday, August 22) is the open house “charrette”: a public review and feedback meeting covering additional plans for the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee’s “Master Plan for Downtown Parking and Pedestrian Areas: Reconnecting the Riverfront.”

Particular focus will be on the Parker Harding Plaza design.

The session begins at 7 p.m. (Westport Library) All residents and downtown stakeholders are invited to attend.

Information on the project is available on the DPIC website. Feedback is welcome in its comments section.

DPIC also conducts regular public meetings, typically the 2nd Thursday of each month at 8:30 a.m.

Parker Harding Plaza cut-through road (left), and Saugatuck River. (Drone photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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Westport Community Gardens continues its 20th anniversary celebration with another pop-up garden stand.

Everyone is invited to explore the Gardens — and adjacent Long Lots Preserve — and pick up very fresh produce, herbs and flowers this Sunday (August 27, 10 a.m. to noon).

Straight from the Community Gardens. (Photo/Karen Mather)

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The Rhimes girls held a very successful lemonade-and-ice-cream fundraiser for Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services this weekend.

They raised over $4,000 for the great organization (which, many people don’t realize, runs almost entirely on donations).

The feeling of helping a good cause was enough. But the youngsters were rewarded yesterday. President Mike Burns led a personal tour of the facility — and personally thanked the girls.

WVEMS president Mike Burns and EMS member Sammi Henske flank the Rhimes family. (Photo courtesy of Shonda Rhimes)

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James Naughton and Carole Schweid entertained a full house last night.

The “Play With Your Food” creator led the actor/director in a discussion on his life on stage and screen — and as a passionate advocate for Connecticut’s Medical Aid in Dying legislation.

Naughton talked about investing in theater (he’s been quite lucky), his work with Paul Newman, Joanne Woodward and many others, and the joys and frustrations of a life in the arts.

The evening included a screening of the short film “Not the Same Clarence.” The film, featuring Jim and his son Greg Naughton, depicts the realities of caring for a parent with dementia, and its impact on their lives.

The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston sponsored the event.

James Naughton and Carole Schweid. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of acting: Jodi Stevens and Scott Bryce are expanding SBEstudio — their Weston performing arts school — to Saugatuck Congregational Church.

Jodi (a Broadway veteran and voice, singing and acting coach for over 20 years) and Scott (her Emmy-winning producer/director/actor husband, and a former Staplesl Player) offer new programming too, including a spring 6-week film and TV intensive course.

A grand opening is set for this Sunday (August 27, 2 p.m.).

Musical theater group classes and private lessons are available from ages 4-5 (Broadway Beginnings) all the way to 15-18 (Young Professionals). A new Broadway Babies class, for ages 2-3, is in the works.

The Bryce family has a long history with the Saugatuck Church. Scott’s mother Dorothy was deacon emeritus, a founding member of the Interfaith Council of Westport, Weston, Wilton, and a founder of the Theatre Artists Workshop.

Jodi’s scholarship program for talented students without means will continue, under a new name: The SBEstudio Dorothy Bryce Scholarship Fund.

For more information on the Saugatuck Church and Weston programs, click here, email info@sbestudio.com, or call 203-247-6569.

Scott Bryce and Jodi Stevens (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Parents)

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Agent Orange has killed more than 300,000 US military veterans since our country left Vietnam in 1975.

The toll continues to rise.

In his new book “Agent Orange: A Short Sickening Saga of War,” Staples High School graduate/longtime Westport/prolific author Carl Addison Swanson explores the subject.

Amazon calls it “the tragic story of a Vietnam Veteran who, after 50 years of good health, is stricken with a heart disease connected directly to his exposure to the chemical AGENT ORANGE during the war.”

It is available on Kindle. Click here to order, and for more information.

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The last date of lifeguards at Burying Hill Beach is this Thursday (August 24).

Compo Beach lifeguards continue through September 4.

Beach stickers are required through September 30.

Burying Hill Beach lifeguards’ last day is Thursday. (Photo/Yvonne O’Kane)

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Traffic alert: The Department of Public Works’ annual roadway crack seal program begins this Thursday (August 24).

The work will continue for 2 weeks, on 15 miles of roadway. Be alert for 1-way traffic throughout the project.

Crack sealing ahead!

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This week on “What’s Next in Weston,” 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor introduces Carol Baldwin, president of the Friends of Lachat Town Farm.

It’s the first of a 2-part series, covering the programs offered at “The Coachella of Fairfield County.”

The podcast is produced by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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MoCA’s fall exhibition — “Purvis Young: This is the Life I See” — features 36 large scale works by the American “outsider artist.”

This is the first time that the works, from the collection of Lynne and Jack Dodick, have been on public view.

The exhibition open September 15, and runs through December 29. A reception is set for September 14 (6 p.m.; free for members, $10 for non-members. Click here to register.) Advance registration is required.

Purvis Young (1943 – 2010) was a self-taught artist who dealt with the plight of the underprivileged and the consequences of racism and daily violence through a highly distinctive visual style. He lived his entire life in the Miami neighborhood of Overtown, once an entertainment destination as well as a Black neighborhood in the segregated South. Click here for more details.

“Shackled in Blues” (Purvis Young)

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Barry Kresch has spent several months observing nature, up close and personal.

He writes: “A pair of cardinals built a nest in a small tree outside my kitchen window. It was fairly low, so I was able to get some shots into it without disrupting the proceedings.

“I got much of the life cycle: first egg, mom sitting, chicks hatched, dinner is served, junior ready to take wing.

“After they left, I removed the nest. My wife told me they decay and get parasites, so the birds don’t reuse them.

“The same or another nesting pair then repeated the cycle. This time the nest was higher in the tree, not conducive to photos.”

This “life cycle” photo is perfect for our “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Barry Kresch)

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And finally … on this day in 2011 Nick Ashford — half of the husband-and-wife songwriting/production team Ashford & Simpson, and a former Westport resident — died of throat cancer. He was 70 years old.

(Reach out and touch … “06880” with your supporting hand. Please click here to make a contribution. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Linda Blair, Hubert Humphrey, Appletree Oak …

Posted on August 8, 2023 | 2 comments

Yesterday’s “06880” Roundup noted the imminent destruction of a large white oak tree on Appletree Trail. A new home and swimming pool will be built on the property.

It did not happen as scheduled. Neighbor Cathy Morrison reports, “We may have temporarily halted the tree removal. The tree people needed access to remove it from our private street, and the residents won’t let the large trucks and equipment have access from our street. We pay to pave and plow it; the town doesn’t.”

White oak tree on Appletree Trail. (Photo/Cathy Morrison)

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Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services always needs help. Here’s your chance.

EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) and EMR (Emergency Medical Responder) classes begin August 31. They run through December.

Classes are generally held Tuesdays and Thursdays, with some Saturdays.

They’re thorough. They’re intense. They’re also very important.

Click here for details. And thanks to all who enroll.

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The death of director William Friedkin yesterday brought renewed attention to one of his most notable films.

Describing “The Exorcist,” William Grimes writes: “it was a suspenseful, often gruesome, cinematic study of evil at work in the modern world — evil conceived in almost medieval terms.”

Linda Blair, as the possessed girl, gave a terrifying performance enhanced by eye-popping special effects. In a cinematic moment that entered into legend, she spewed a jet of green vomit — actually a blend of oatmeal and pea soup — straight into the face of a priest played by Jason Miller. Even more startling, during the exorcism later in the film, her head spun full circle on her shoulders, grinning maniacally.

Westporters of a certain age remember Linda Blair well. She was a 14-year-old Staples High School student in 1973 — and had been working as a model and actress for years — when she was chosen from 600 others for the role of Regan.

She earned a Golden Globe Award, was nominated for an Oscar — and received death threats for her “blasphemy.”

Linda Blair in “The Exorcist.” (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros., via the New York Times)

The Times obituary notes:

The film, released in late December 1973, became a phenomenal hit, one of Hollywood’s top-grossing movies to date, with ticket sales of more than $200 million (the equivalent of about $1.3 billion today). It was also the first horror film to be nominated for a best picture Oscar. (It lost to “The Sting.”)

In New York, audiences lined up for hours in the freezing cold, while scalpers sold tickets for three times their face value. Vincent Canby, in The New York Times, dismissed the film as “claptrap” but pronounced it “the biggest thing to hit the industry since Mary Pickford, popcorn, pornography and ‘The Godfather.”

Click here for the full obituary. Click here for more on Linda Blair.

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In the long, convoluted history of civil rights in America, the 1948 Democcratic Party’s plank — which led President Truman to desegregate the armed forces — is often forgotten.

But it — and the role played by Minneapolis mayor (and US Senate candidate) Hubert Humphrey were crucial moments.

New York Times journalist, award-winning author and Columbia University professor Samuel Freedman explores those days in his new book, “Into the Bright Sunshine: Young Hubert Humphrey and the Fight for Civil Rights,” at the Westport Library on August 23 (7 p.m.). Books will be available for sale and signing.

There are 2 Westport connections.

Freedman will be interviewed on the Trefz Forum stage by journalist/author/editor Daniel Gross, who lives here.

And last year Freedman’s son Aaron married Carly Machlis. She grew up here, and graduated from Staples High School in 2009.

Click here for more information on Freedman’s appearance.

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The Weston History & Culture Center offers 2 free summer program, for children ages 6-10.

“1940s Fun & Games Kids Camp” runs Thursday, August 17. Children will play with toys and games from the ’40s, and create crafts and art work from the era.

“Weston Illustrated Art Camp” follows on Wednesday, August 23. Both are 10 to 11:30 a.m. Youngsters will learn about artists who lived and worked in Weston. They’ll go on a scavenger hunt through the “Weston Illustrated” exhibit; create a cartoon strip, sculpt with clay, and create a toy.

Both programs will be taught by WHCC executive director Samantha Fargione, assisted by college and high school interns majoring in history. Click here to register, and for more information.

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Abstract art?

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

No.

A tree at Winslow Park — and today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

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And finally … back to Linda Blair (story above). In the 1980s — a decade after starring in “The Exorcist” — she dated singer Rick James for 2 years.

He wrote “Cold Blooded” about her, after she had an abortion without his knowledge.

(Where else but “06880” will you find Linda Blair and Hubert Humphrey together? That’s why this blog is “Where Westport Meets the World.” Please click here to help us continue our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: I-95, Tacombi, Music …

Posted on August 5, 2023 | 4 comments

The new and massive I-beams at northbound I-95 Exit 17 have residents wondering: Is there really going to be a new bridge there?

New construction on Saugatuck Avenue, at I-95. (Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

Not exactly.

Sometime this fall, the Saugatuck Avenue bridge will be replaced, using “accelerated bridge construction.”

A new bridge will be constructed adjacent to the existing bridge. That’s what the new I-beams will support.

Over a single weekend (Friday evening to Monday morning), the current bridge will be demolished. The new structure will be installed in its place.

The date for that complicated (but quick) work has not been set. The entire State Department of Transportation project — which extends south to Norwalk’s Exit 16 — is projected to run through November 1, 2024. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

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Speaking of I-95: Traffic is a mess this morning, throughout Westport.

A major accident on the highway northbound between Exits 17 and 18 caused collateral damage everywhere, as drivers sought alternate routes.

Stay off the roads for a while, if you can.

If you can’t: Leave early!

Saturday morning traffic on Post Road West, in front of Kings Highway Elementary School. (Photo/Susan Garment)

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The soft opening — and much-anticipated run-up to Tacombi’s opening — continued last night.

Realtor Judy Michaelis and Hightower Financial Group hosted a special party. All ticket sales supported Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service.

An enormous crowd enjoyed margaritas, special watermelon drinks, and the New York-based taqueria’s signature dishes.

The official opening is Monday (August 7). Click here for more Tacombi info.

Enjoying Tacombi last night (from left): Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service president Mike Burns; 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker; hosts Hightower Financial Group and Judy Michaelis; Tacombi manager; Police Chief Foti Koskinas; WVEMS vice president Larry Kleinman. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Also last night: The Soul Drivers rocked the Levitt Pavilion, with their Memphis Soul sound. Tonight (Saturday) it’s Theo Kandel; tomorrow, Quadrature. Click here for (free) tickets, and more information.

Soul Drivers (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

Not far away last night, Massive Diva entertained diners at Walrus Alley. They’re there — right next to Don Memo — every Friday night. Tonight (7:30 to 11) it’s the always-popular Zambonis.

Massive Diva (Photo/MaryLou Roels)

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Also last night: approximately 20 clammers in Sherwood Mill Pond.

Each white light is the LED headlamp of a Sherwood Mill Pond clammer. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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One more event last night:

Westport firefighters responded to a house fire on Warnock Drive, off Easton Road.

Most damage was limited to the exterior and front attic space. There were no injuries. Westport Emergency Medical Service and Westport Police assisted.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Warnock Drive fire. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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The Y’s Women meet every Tuesday at 5 p.m. at Compo. They enjoy late-day sun, interesting conversations and good laughs.

They extend an invitation to all: “Bring your own food, drinks and chair, and come say hello!”

Y’s Women at Compo Beach.

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Is there anything more natural in Westport than water, sun and clouds?

Jason Pike captured this scene perfectly, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Jason Pike)

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And finally …  on this day in 1957, Dick Clark’s “American Bandstand” debuted on ABC. Televised entertainment was never the same.

(“06880” has your weekend covered. And every other day too. Please support your hyper-local blog. Click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: Lunar New Year, EMT Training, Dick Rauh’s Botany …

Posted on January 27, 2023 | 1 comment

What’s a Lunar New Year without a celebration?

On Tuesday, AAPI Westport founders Patra Kanchanagom, Rosie Jon and Sarin Cheung headed to Town Hall. They brought popular treats.

Selectwomen Jen Tooker, Andrea Moore and Candi Savin, and Police Chief Foti Koskinas, joined them. The AAPI members shared new year traditions, and showed the work of middle school Mandarin classes. Each year, they decorate schools with words signifying good future, prosperity, peace and protection.   

農曆新年快樂!

AAPI representatives and town officials celebrate the Lunar New Year at Town Hall.

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Have you always wanted to be an EMT?

Act now!

Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services’ spring class begins February 28. It runs through June.

For more information, click here or email training@westportems.org.

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Upcoming at the Westport Library:

98-year-old artist Dick Rauh talks about his current (and remarkable) exhibit, “A Botanical Retrospective.” A reception follows. (Sunday, January 29, 2 to 4 p.m., Trefz Forum.)

“Musical Notes: Selections from the Westport Public Art Collections Reception” is set for Tuesday (January 31, 6:30 to 8 p.m.). The Staples High School Jazz Combo performs, and light snacks will be served.

Dick Rauh, and his art.

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Yesterday’s “06880” Roundup gave an incorrect time for this Sunday’s “medical kit maker” event at The Readiness Collective, in Norwalk’s SoNo Collection. The correct time is 4 to 6 p.m.

Run by Staples High School graduates Jesse and Sefra Levine — who since 2003 have been helping people around the globe survive disasters.

The goal this Sunday is to build 600 med kits, to be hand delivered next month to front-line units.

Everyone is welcome. Questions? Email jesse@tactivate.com.

Jesse and Sefra Levin.

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On Saturday, the Fairfield County Story Lab (21 Charles Street, 2 to 4 p.m.) welcomes Sandi Shelton (aka Maddie Dawson) to celebrate her latest novel, “Snap Out of It!” Everyone — Lab member and others — is invited to the reading, signing and snacking.

The Fairfield County Story Lab is a shared workspace for creatives. To reserve a spot, email info@fcstorylab.com.


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Darwin Day is an international event. Proceeds from dinners around the US support the National Center for Science Education.

Locally, the 15th annual Darwin Day Dinner is set for February 11 (The Inn at Longshore; also Zoom).

It’s both a party (cocktail hour, dinner), a science quiz (with prizes), and a lecture.

“Concurrent Infections” is the topic of the presentation by Dr. Vanessa Ezenwa, professor and researcher at Yale’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Her research focuses on the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases in wild animal populations.

High school and college students passionate about science join the celebration (and help their tables with the Science Quiz). Their tickets are covered by attendees and benefactors.  

Click here for tickets and more information. Questions? Email jlevin6@zoho.com, or call 646-221-9134.

Dr. Vanessa Ezenwa

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features the sight just outside Lauri Weiser’s Lansdowne condo window:

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … in honor of Dick Rauh’s fantastic botanical art exhibit, at the Westport Library (story above):

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(“06880” relies on support from readers like you. Please click here to contribute. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Qatar, Kids, Service …

Posted on October 3, 2022 | 5 comments

Giles Goodburn lives in Westport. But he grew up in the UK, where he became great friends with rugby teammate Marc Bennett.

They stayed close over the years. Their families celebrated special occasions together; they vacationed together too, all over the world.

Most recently, the Goodburns would visit the Bennetts in Dubai, where Marc — a travel industry executive — worked. Marc, Nancy and their 2 boys would reciprocate, in Westport. Marc loved fishing off the Westport shoreline, and Cockenoe Island.

One memorable Christmas Eve, Marc, Giles and and their sons  skated at Longshore. Marc fell, dislocated his shoulder, and spent that night in the ER.

“He was the life and soul of the party, and a dear friend,” Giles says.

Marc’s most recent job was with Qatar Airways to boost Qatar’s tourism trade, in the runup to the coming soccer World Cup.

Near the end of 2019, he was found hanging in a Doha hotel. He had been arrested at his office 10 weeks earlier. He told friends he had been detained for 3 weeks, blindfolded, stripped, blasted with high-pressure hoses, slammed against wall and deprived of sleep, by the country’s secret police,

After his release he could not leave Qatar. Authorities there called his death a suicide. But British officials, and Marc’s family, are not so sure.

Last week, the Times of London published a story about the case, and of the secret Qatari unit that was involved. In the run-up to the World Cup, Qatar has attracted international attention for its human rights abuses, and the deaths of foreign workers building stadiums and other infrastructure.

Click here for the full Times story.

Marc Bennett at Longshore, just before he fell.

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Westport Zoning Board of Appeals member Thomas Hood Jr. died on Thursday at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. The New Jersey native was 65.

Thomas received his BS in civil engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, an MBA from the University of Connecticut, and a master’s in architecture from NJIT.

He had over 40 years of experience in the design, planning and construction of buildings, software engineering, advanced product development, marketing, and consulting.

Thomas was appointed to the ZBA in 2018. Previously, he spent 2 terms on the Flood & Erosion Control Board.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston for more than 30 years, where he served as a trustee and sang in the choir.

Thomas’s favorite activities were spending time with his family, painting, cooking, and being near the water. An avid sailor, he was a member of both Cedar Point Yacht Club and the Mantoloking (New Jersey) Yacht Club.

Thomas is survived by his wife of 40 years, Mary Jane (Pascale) Hood; their children, Elizabeth (James Ifert) of Philadelphia, and Thomas and Meredith, both of Brooklyn; his sister Barbara Hood Benz (Charles) of Mantoloking, and extended family.

Visitation will be held Thursday, (October 6, 4 to 8 p.m., Magner Funeral Home, 12 Mott Avenue, Norwalk, CT). A memorial service is set for Friday (October 7, 11 a.m., United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston).

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Thomas Hood

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Sure, there’s a lot going on this month.

But if you’ve got children, try to make time to the 2nd annual Fall Family Festival (Saturday, October 15, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms Academy; $20 per family).

Sponsored by WestportMoms — the multi-platform we’ve-got-kids-covered organization — it features food, crafts, games and fun (bouncy houses, ninja course, music, art projects, DJ, pumpkin and cookie decorating, face painting, hair extensions, glitter tattoos, magic, STEM activities and more).

Many businesses will show off their products and services — all with activities for kids.

Organizers Megan Brownstein and Melissa Post ask attendees to bring gently worn jackets, for donations to a local non-profit.

A scene from last year’s Fall Family Festival.

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Speaking of kids: They love nature. They also love Victoria Kann.

This Sunday (October 9, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.), they can combine both. The author will read from her popular “Pinkalicious: Treasuretastic” book, and sign copies. There’s also a scavenger hunt for natural treasures through the remarkable Blau House gardens, and a chance for children to take a bean home and watch it grow.

The gardens are at 9 Bayberry Ridge Road. Registration and payment ($10 per child, which includes a copy of the book) must be done by October 7. Click here for details.

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Speaking still of kids:

The 3rd grade Brownies troop from Long Lots School recently raised funds through cookie sales to purchase a native tree for the Long Lots Preserve, next to the Community Gardens.

The Preserve protects land for future generations, while educating Westporters about a healthy environment. It is turning open space overrun with invasive plants and pests into a native New England forest.

The girls — who have been a troop together since kindergarten — worked with Long Lots Preserve director Lou Weinberg, and their troop leaders to dig a hole and plant their tree. It was a great project — one they can see every day, outside their school.

Long Lots Brownies, Lou Weinberg and their Preserve tree.

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Westport’s National Charity League chapter invites 6th grade girls to apply for the 2023-24 year.

With over 275 members, NCL Westport has more than 275 members (women and their daughters in grades 7-12) provide volunteer service for over 30 community  non-profits.

The 6-year core program includes leadership development and cultural activities. Click here or email mmurphy33Wyahoo.com.

National Charity League seniors, at Ned Dimes Marina.

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Lynn Flint writes: “I’m really concerned about the number of people walking on the side of the road with traffic, not against it, wearing dark non-reflective clothes, in the early twilight and darkness — especially where there are no sidewalks, and the streets are poorly lit.”

As darkness falls earlier, this long-running (and walking) problem gets worse. “06880” readers: Please wear light clothing. Walk against traffic, not with it.

And if there’s a sidewalk nearby, use it. Taxpayers have paid good money to save your life.

Light clothing is good. Walking with traffic is not.

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Speaking of taking care of accident victims:

This weekend at the VFW, Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service honored the achievements of our volunteers. Among them:

  • Crew Chief of the Year: Jamie Bairaktaris
  • Volunteer of the Year: Stew Reifler
  • Youth Corps Member of the Year: Jenna Baumblatt
  • EMT of the Year: Ryan Blake
  • Presidential Service Awards Lifetime Recognition: Danielle Faul
  • Presidential Service Awards Lifetime Recognition: Audrone Tarnok
  • Carol Dixon, Danielle Faul: 20 years of service
  • Dorrie Harris: 30 years of service
  • Pat Salvo, Jay Paretzky: 40 years of service

Click here, then scroll down for more information on each honoree.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features just one autumn leaf.

It’s October 3. Believe me: There are many more to come.

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … Happy 81st birthday, Chubby Checker. Let’s dance!

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely entirely on reader support. Please click here to help.)

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