Tag Archives: Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce

Roundup: Early Voting, Lead Pipes, Masquerade Ball …

Posted on October 31, 2024 | 35 comments

Early voting continues to draw steady crowds to Town Hall.

Balloting runs through Sunday, November 3, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Town Hall auditorium. Tomorrow (October 31), hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Voting on Election Day (Tuesday, November 5), is from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., at regular polling places. Click here to view a district map.

(Photo/Frank Rosen)

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In response to the recent mailing from Aquarion to water customers about possible lead pipes, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker asked Public Works director Peter Ratkiewich to contact the utility. Aquarion told him: “The water has been and will continue to be safe.”

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker adds, “I encourage residents with questions and concerns to contact Aquarion directly, or research online at Aquarion Water Company.”                                                                       

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Congratulations to Ben Casparius!

The 2017 Staples High School graduate did not pitch in last night’s 7-6 Los Angeles Dodgers victory over the New York Yankees.

But he’s a World Series champion — the first-ever former Wrecker baseball player to earn that feat.

The champs will be honored with a parade in LA tomorrow, and an event at Dodger Stadium.

Then — at some point, when he returns here — Westport will no doubt throw a party for our newest hometown hero.

Los Angeles Dodgers celebrate, at Yankee Stadium.

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Content Studio — Chirag Shah and Jay Norris’ Saugatuck Avenue production studio that’s earning raves as Westport’s newest, most versatile party/meeting/ media location — hosted a great pre-Halloween masquerade ball last night.

A diverse, intriguing crowd celebrated with DJ Marcello, enjoyed excellent food and drinks — and raised money for A Better Chance of Westport.

There were no tricks at all. But plenty of treats.

 

From left: Dan Woog, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Jay Norris, Noah Fenn, Crystal Norris. (All photos/Ryan Allen)

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Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department has announced new programs for youngsters.

Better Babysitting: This class teaches teens and young adults how to be a successful babysitter. It includes infant and child CPR, how to handle emergency situations and child development. Participants will leave this course as certified babysitters ready to work. (November 7, December 5, January 2, February 13, March 6, April 3, May 1; 4 to 6 p.m.; ages 11+).

Crafty Kids Art Classes: A fun space for children to grow creatively and socially through process art, DIY crafts and sensory play. (Tuesdays, November 12-December 10; 4 to 5 p.m.; grades K-5).

Food Explorers: Children make new food each week. Fridays, November 15-December 13; 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; grades 2-5). 

Exploring food encourages children to learn through sensory experiences, hands-on activities and working together to create delicious results. Children will have the freedom to explore food thanks to our unique “food neutral’ approach to teaching about food. During this class, children will learn to make a new food every week.

Water Polo: (Fridays , November 12-February 6; 5:30 to 7 p.m.; ages 8-13). 

Click here to register.

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Speaking of kids: The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of this year’s Halloween Window Painting Contest, sponsored by Village Pediatrics.

Over 50 children painted 40 windows throughout town, thanks to the generosity of local businesses.

Winners received gift certificates for ice cream, thanks to Momu.

Winners in the 2 school levels and 3 painting categories are:

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

“Scariest Window”: Misha Mendelson, 4th grade Kings Highway, Momu window

“Most Halloween”: Margaux Chang, Cora Comprelli, Maddy Chang, 1st Grade Kings Highway, Naturino Shoes window

“Most Original”: Lila Boyd, 5th Grade Saugatuck, Naturino Shoes

MIDDLE SCHOOL

“Scariest Window”: Mia Suchotliff, 6th grade Bedford, Cycle Dynamics

“Most Creative”: Penelope Whitbourne, 8th grade Bedford, Cycle Dynamics

“Most Halloween”: Chloe Robbin, 6th Grade Bedford, Cycle Dynamics

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Balloons are pretty.

They’re also atrocious for the environment — especially marine life.

This past summer, Saugatuck Harbor Yacht Club’s Fishing Committee ran a competition. The goal: Who could “catch” the most Mylar and plastic balloons.

The results far surpassed chair Maggie Carey’s expectations. Nearly 2 dozen families collected 431 balloons — plus plastic bags full of cans, pool floats, a beach ball, soccer ball and more.

On Sunday, prizes were awarded to winning families.

Evan, Lorraine and Kendall Berger (age 9) of Weston finished first, with 191 balloons (plus other items).

Second place went to Hannah and Eric Peck of Fairfield with 102 balloons (and assorted trash).

Rowayton Seafood found out about the competition, and doubled the value of gift cards SHYC purchased as awards.

Kendall also received a pair of Grudens fishing bibs, to help catch more balloons next year.

The balloons were collected in bunches, and solo. They represented R2D2, dinosaurs, pineapples and Spidermans.

Saugatuck Harbor hopes to repeat the contest next year. They may challenge other local yacht clubs to see who can collect the most.

And, Maggie notes, members — and everyone else — can continue collecting balloons they find on the water and washed up on shore, all year long.

The Berger family in action, on the “Saugy Dog.”

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Tim Romano and Trump signs are back in the news.

This summer, the longtime Westporter and Longshore-area resident — provoked a debate by driving his golf cart, festooned with a large political banner, around the golf course and Compo Beach. Residents thought the private citizen was a town employee.

A heated confrontation with an irate anti-Trumper was caught on video.

Now, the Connecticut Centinal reports:

A female jogger running south on Compo Road South intentionally tipped over two Trump lawn signs before she turned right into the Longshore complex. The signs had been placed between the sidewalk and the roadway.

Romano contacted police and an officer met him to review video footage he had taken of the jogger. The footage did not show the jogger tipping over the signs.

But while speaking to Romano, the jogger coincidentally reappeared.

The police report indicates the jogger identified herself as a doctor, specifically a gynecologist. She told the officer she felt that the Trump signs were “offensive” to her “as a taxpayer in the Town of Westport” and she “doesn’t want to see” Trump signs on public property.

The officer reminded the doctor that regardless of one’s political views, everyone had a right to free speech, and that includes voicing their support for candidates in the election.

The officer asked the doctor to remain patient considering the election is only a week away, and gave her a warning. Meanwhile, Romano replanted the Trump signs.

Click here for the full Centinal story.

Screenshot from Connecticut Centinal video.

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Y’s Men of Westport and Weston member Mario Ottaviano died Sunday, surrounded by his family. He was 91.

He was born in Stamford to parents who immigrated from Italy. Mario graduated top of his class from the RCA Institute. For 27  years he owned and operated Economy TV, a television and audio sales and service company.

He received a BS in business from the University of Connecticut. He later earned a real estate broker’s license, a graduate certificate from the University of Georgia Real Estate Management program, and an ICSC Shopping Center Manager CSM degree.

Mario founded Ottaviano Associates, which owned properties around Stamford. He also owned and maintained properties in Bristol. He was knowledgeable about engineering, architecture and electronics. With his keen eye for craftmanship, he oversaw the restoration of two historic family homes.

An avid boater, Mario and his wife Marilyn enjoyed living by the water in Westport for 30 years. His interests included squash, handball, skiing, square dancing, theater, and biking with his children and grandchildren.

He played guitar and ukelele, and gardened and canned what he grew.

With the Y’s Men he spearheaded the Cooking Club, and was a member of the Hiking Club and Classical Music Society.

Mario was pre-deceased by his sister Angelina Concetta Lionetti. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Marilyn Lovallo Ottaviano; children Susan of New York, John (Cindy) Stamford, Christy (Kevin Ohe) of Fairfield, and David (Jessica Bruck) of Albuquerque; and grandchildren Casey Ottaviano, Francis Ohe, Vincent Ohe, Henry Boone, Craig Ottaviano, Elena Ohe and Antonia Ottaviano.

A celebration of life ceremony will take place November 30 (10:30 a.m., Harbor Lights, 82 Seaview Avenue, Norwalk). Remembrances can be shared in the memory book on Cognetta Funeral Home’s website.

Mario Ottaviano

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Greg Manty says “Sherwood Island is the best this time of year!”

“06880” readers love Connecticut’s first state park in all 4 seasons. This is just one view, for our “Westport … Naturally” series.

(Photo/Greg Manty)

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And finally … if you’re tired of hearing “Monster Mash” played as the iconic Halloween song:

(It’s no trick. Just click here to treat “06880” to your support, through a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!) 

 

 

 

35 Comments

Posted in Environment, Obituaries, Politics

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Roundup: Mary Young P&Z, Halloween Painting & Parade, Bite & Dig …

Posted on October 3, 2024 | 9 comments

To the chagrin of many builders, homeowners, architects and others who have worked with her, Mary Young is stepping down as Planning & Zoning Department director. Her last day is Friday.

Mary tells “06880”:

It has been an immense honor and privilege to serve the residents of Westport since 2002. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years. When you love what you do, it hardly feels like work, and I truly cherished my time here.

Land use decision-making is inherently a collaborative process, and Westport is fortunate to have residents who are dedicated to volunteering their time for the greater good and shaping a brighter future. I have been blessed to collaborate with countless unsung heroes who tirelessly advocate for transparency and meaningful change.

As I step aside, I sincerely hope that the residents of Westport will embrace my successor, who has truly earned this position. I believe my legacy will thrive in her continued success. Thank you all for your support and commitment to the Westport community.

I’d like to add my personal thanks to Mary. She has always treated the media with fairness and respect. She is quick to respond to questions, always forthright, and extremely knowledgeable. Thank you, Mary, for making my job easier — and for always having Westport’s best interests in mind.

Mary Young

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t’s b-a-a-a-a-c-k!

The annual Halloween window painting contest returns Saturday, October 26.

The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce is looking for painters for the popular 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. event.

Elementary and middle school children paint a store window they request, or that is assigned to them.

Elementary and middle schools winners in 3 categories — Scariest Art Work, Best Halloween Theme and Most Original — earn gift certificates. Click here to sign up.

That’s just the start. On October 29, the Parks & Recreation Department’s annual Halloween Parade begins at 3:30 p.m., at the Post Road East/Main Street intersection.

Costumed kids will walk to Avery Place, then enjoy festivities on Veterans Green across from Town Hall.

Scenes from last year’s window painting contest.

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Westport resident Dave Briggs films intriguing videos for Cheddar, the business, finance and tech website.

The other day he was at a New York location of Dig, the Northeast restaurant chain. Dave was shooting a story on Bite, whose AI-powered kiosks are found at quick-serve spots everywhere.

Chatting with Bite CEO Brandon Barton about the advantages of self-service — ease and comfort; more opportunities for add-sons; “friction-less and pressure-less,” and of course potential cost savings — Dave learned that Barton is also a Westporter.

But that’s not all. Turns out Dig founder Adam Eskin also lives here.

Sounds like Dig needs to open a location here. Then Dave can tape another video, without any of the principals leaving town.

Click here for the clip, on the Cheddar website.

Screenshot of Dave Briggs (left) with Brandon Barton.

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Last year’s Volunteer Fair was a great success.

This year’s event (Saturday, October 5, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m,, Westport Library), will be even bigger and better.

The adult and youth fairs are combined into one, presenting even more opportunities for volunteerism with many non-profits, organizations, and town boards and commissions. Education, housing, government, youth, seniors, the environment — those interests, and many others, are all represented.

Adult and teen attendees can speak with staff members, and sign up for volunteer opportunities. Click here for more information.

Last year’s Volunteer Fair, at the Westport Library.

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Got an old vehicle you’d like to get rid of, but refuse to donate it to 1-800-KarsForKids because they’ve tortured us with the most obnoxious jingle in the history of advertising for the past 20 years?

The Westport Fire Department wants you! (And yours.)

They train for life-saving rescues by using donated cars and trucks.

Any make, model or condition is fine. It can be damaged, even non-working.

Like NPR, they’ll even tow it for free.

For more information — or to cut right to the chase, and schedule a pickup — call 203-341-5003, or email jkronenberger@westportct.gov.

Westport firefighters practice on a donated vehicle. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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This Sunday (October 6, 11 a.m., meeting at the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot), the Westport chapter of RunForTheirLives commemorates the first anniversary of Hamas’ October 7 massacre in Israel with a “peaceful and apolitical march through town.”

Marchers will carry signs to remember the 101 hostages who remain in captivity. They’ll be joined by local clergy from different denominations, and community leaders.

Every Sunday for a year, residents have marched through town, in all kinds of weather.

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1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker’s newest “In Focus” newsletter has been posted to the town website.

Among the items: an update on the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee’s work, and a reminder about illegal clear-cutting, filling and dumping in and near wetlands and watercourses.

Click here for the full newsletter.

40% of Westport properties are on or close to wetlands or watercourses. This pond is near Partrick Wetlands. (Photo/Scott Smith)

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The Westport Police Department’s “Coffee with a Cop” yesterday morning, at McDonald’s, was a great success.

Many patrons stopped for a chat with our officers. There were smiles all around.

And no tickets.

One “06880” reader appreciates the outreach, but offers a suggestion for next time: Choose a locally owned coffee shop, rather than one of the biggest chains in the world.

Coffee and conversation. (Photo courtesy of Westport Police Department)

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Speaking of cops: Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between September 25 and October 2.

A 40-year-old man from Nutley, New Jersey and a 32-year-old man from Paterson, New Jersey were charged with larceny, and criminal attempt to commit larceny, following a shoplifting at Ulta Beauty. Officer stopped the suspects’ vehicle on Post Road East, near the Fairfield line. A female suspect has been identified, and is being investigated.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 10 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 6
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 6
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 5
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulation: 5
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 2
  • Following too closely: 2
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 2
  • Improper use of marker plates: 2
  • Reckless endangerment: 1
  • Transporting a child 5-8 years old, 40-60 pounds without restraints: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Unreadable plates: 1
  • Failure to cancel registration: 1
  • Illegal operation by a motor carrier: 1

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Over the last 15 years, the Push Against Cancer fundraiser has grown from a small community fundraiser to a giant push-up festival raising funds to support The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, aiding children with serious illnesses.

Hundreds of Westporters will join the push-up marathon on Sunday, October 20 (8 a.m., Staples High School).

Registration starts at $40 per participant. It includes Push Against Cancer gear, and a fundraising web page to engage friends and family. Click here to sign up, and for more information.

Participants at last year’s Push Against Cancer.

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Unite the World With Africa Foundation‘s Westport supporters are collecting medical supplies for Kitanga, a small Tanzanian village that is accessible only by water.

Items needed include stethoscopes; blood pressure machines; pulse oximeters;  green, dark blue or black scrubs (small); glucometers and hemoglobinometers.

Odds are, you don’t have any of those lying around your house.

No problem!

Click here; the select the “Unite Medical” address at checkout to have the items shipped directly.

If you actually have them on hand — or want them shipped to you — you can drop them off at Village Pediatrics, 323 Riverside Avenue.

Residents of Kitanga, Tanzania need medical supplies.

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“Moms in Security” — a Westport-based nonprofit focused on ending human trafficking and child exploitation — hosts a fundraising 5K walk at Compo Beach Saturday (8 a.m.).

All ages are invited. Click here to register or donate. All proceeds support Moms in Security’s programs and initiatives.

Questions? Email tiffany@momsinsecurity.com.

 

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Jaime Hastings, executive director of the Arthur Miller Foundation, spoke Tuesday to the Westport Rotary Club.

For the past 10 years, the Arthur Miller Foundation has been increasing equitable access to quality theater education for public school students by certifying and supporting teachers to build sustainable in-school theater programs.

They currently support theater teachers in New York City, Bridgeport, and Norwalk Public Schools.

Jaime Hastings (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)

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Sure, we posted a great bee photo on Monday, right here in “Westport … Naturally.”

But this one is equally cool. Photographer Jen Greely says: “This early fall scene in my garden shows 3 bees nectaring from a single dahlia. I guess it’s more fun with friends.”

(Photo/Jen Greely)

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And finally … between Tanzania, Israel, schools in Bridgeport and Norwalk, and stories in our own back yard, today’s Roundup proves once again that “06880” is truly “where Westport meets the world.” So …

(If you enjoy learning about Westport — and the world — through “06880,” please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Police

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Unsung Heroes #351

Posted on September 18, 2024 | Comments Off on Unsung Heroes #351

Last weekend was one of the most remarkable in memory.

Under spectacular late-summer skies, several organizations held important fundraisers.

The Westport Country Playhouse, Wakeman Town Farm, Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services and Levitt Pavilion all threw great bashes. All depend on donors to do the amazing things they do.

The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Slice of Saugatuck is part fundraiser too. Each year, they donate thousands of dollars from proceeds to Homes with Hope’s food pantry.

Thousands of Westporters ate, drank, danced and were entertained at those events.

At the Levitt Pavilion, Peter Frampton came alive.

Two days earlier, the Westport Library’s biggest gala of the year, “Booked for the Evening,” was the most successful — and fun — in its 25-year history. Billie Jean King, Chris Evert and Chris McKendry wowed a sellout crowd.

And this weekend, 1,500 more will head to Compo Beach. Proceeds from the Westport Rotary Club’s LobsterFest will allow that group to donate hundreds of thousands of dollars, to dozens of organizations in Fairfield County and abroad.

Parties like these make Westport a wonderful place to live. In addition to money raised, they create a sense of community. They make us smile, and feel good about ourselves, our neighbors and our town.

But none of those events happen overnight.

Each takes months of meticulous planning. From the big items — talent, food, decorations, auction items, publicity — to the smaller ones like programs, signage, tablecloths and a squintillion other details, a successful fundraiser relies on a huge pool of volunteers.

Wakeman Town Farm’s HarvestFest was fantastic. But who arranged for the singer? Figured out where he’d sing? Got the flowers, and put them there?

The overall chairs get thanked profusely. They thank their committee chairs. All deserve their kudos.

But it’s the grunt work of all the un-thanked men, women and teenagers who ace a Billie Jean King evening, help Peter Frampton sing, and feed (then clean up) 3,000 lobsters.

So to all those who worked on any of those events. Or will work this weekend. Or worked in the past, and may in the future:

Thank you. You are our unsung — but greatly appreciated — heroes of the week.

(Unsung Hero is a weekly “06880” feature. To nominate a hero, email 06880blog@gmail.com. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Library, Unsung Heroes, Westport Country Playhouse

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Any Way You Slice It, Saugatuck Sizzled

Posted on September 15, 2024 | 2 comments

What a difference a week makes.

Last Saturday was rainy and gray. The Slice of Saugatuck was postponed.

Yesterday’s late-summer weather was perfect. The sun shone, the air was warm, and a couple of thousand folks ate, drank, danced and bounce-housed their way up and down Riverside and Saugatuck Avenues, and around Railroad Place.

The annual Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce party has become an unofficial kickoff to fall.

And what better way to celebrate it than by strolling (with or without strollers), enjoying a few dozen restaurants, shops and booths, in one of Westport’s oldest — and coolest — neighborhoods.

Our excellent “06880” photographer Ryan Allen — a Staples High School sophomore — was at the Slice, to capture it all.

Like everyone else, he ate it up.

Admission is just $15 — and only $5 for kids. Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce volunteers sold tickets.

One helping per customer. An employee here checks a guest’s card. But the portions were great. And even though the Bridge at Saugatuck hasn’t opened yet, they served full burgers.

Smokey Bear, at the Saugatuck Fire Station.

Where to go next?

(All photos/Ryan Allen)

2 Comments

Posted in Local business, Restaurants, Saugatuck

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Roundup: After The Storm, After The Diesel Spill …

Posted on July 19, 2024 | 2 comments

Some Westporters were surprised that Compo Beach was closed to swimmers yesterday.

Others were not. Heavy rains — like the ones the night before (Wednesday) — often lead to closure.

“06880” reader and environmental activist Toni Simonetti wrote: “I learned something, thanks to Mark Cooper, director of health for the Aspetuck Health District.

“Swimming is closed at town beaches for 24 hours after a very heavy rainfall (as we all witnessed into the night yesterday). Because of the excessive runoff of surface water, and all it collects along the way, it  ends up in Long Island Sound.

“In Westport it takes 3 tides, or 24 hours, to cleanse the water tidally.

“The 24-hour waiting period is state protocol. Norwalk and Fairfield, on either side of Westport, have longer water cleansing times. Mark thinks that’s because we benefit from the ebbs and flows of the clean Saugatuck River.

“Just another benefit to living in Westport!”

Serene. But not safe after a storm. (Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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Speaking of that brief but intense storm: In addition to fouling our waters, it brought down power lines and trees.

But there were bright spots, amid the bad weather. Chris Vatis writes:

“Both Eversource line people and Gault electritians were on site within 1 1/2 hours after I reported the storm ripped both my meter and electricity pole attached to my house right off, leaving live wires all over my property.

“They worked diligently to restore it.

“I and we often complain about how much money we now pay for services. But both companies deserve praise for their excellent communication and lightning speed response to my plea for immediate help. I’m very impressed with both companies.”

 

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Also yesterday: No, you were not imagining things.

Traffic throughout town was worse than usual.

Way worse.

The culprit was a diesel fuel spill on I-95 southbound, between Exits 18 and 17.

As often happens, more spillage followed. Car and truck drivers got off the highway, and — in a futile attempt to move more quickly — clogged our main roads and side streets.

This Bridge Street scene was repeated at many other spots:

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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Speaking of drivers: We’re not sure how this accident occurred, but someone clipped the sign — in the middle of the traffic island at the Sherwood Island Connector, by the Post Road.

(Photo/Josh Berkowsky)

Coming from I-95, we’re now welcomed to “Estport.”

On the way out, it’s “Westpor.”

Be careful out there!

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Bob Newhart — the supremely talented, always understated but very hilarious comedian who died yesterday at 94 — may not have had any connections to Westport. (Though I’m sure several commenters will note otherwise.)

But this much is certain: When he gave a speech at the Kennedy Center, upon accepting his Mark Twain Prize, he referenced a Westport icon: Paul Newman.

Click below, then fast forward to 4:13 when the story begins.

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The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce held a “Business After Hours” event last night, at the Levitt Pavilion.

Members and town officials celebrated the outdoor theater’s 50th anniversary — and the Chamber’s 93rd year.

At the Chamber of Commerce event last night (from left): Paul Lebowitz, Planning & Zoning Commission chair; RTM member Jay Keenan; 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore; RTM member Sal Liccione; Chamber director Matthew Mandell; 3rd Selectwoman Candice Savin; 1st Selectwoman Jen  Tooker; RTM members Don O’Day and Melissa Levy. (Photo/Dan Woog

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Congratulations to Westport author Diana Sussman!

Her first novel, “The Neighbors’ Secret,” was named an American Fiction Award finalist, for pre-teen fiction.

Last year, the book was a Tassy Walden Award Finalist in 2023.

The novel takes middle school readers on “an adventure filled with puzzles, secrets, and unexpected twists,” press materials say.

“With her background as a litigation attorney and her passion for storytelling, Sussman weaves an intricate tale that keeps readers guessing until the very end.”

Diana Sussman

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Spotted lanternflies are back.

We fight them with traps and white vinegar.

But we’re not the only ones. Praying mantises are natural predators.

So — as today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo shows: Pray for mantises.

(Photo/Gabriela Hayes)

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And finally … Dave Loggins died last week, in Nashville. He was 76.

The songwriter had only one hit of his own: “Please Come to Boston.” But he wrote songs for many other artists, including Willie Nelson, Tanya Tucker, Wynonna Judd and Toby Keith.

Non-country music fans knew him too. He wrote the Masters golf tournament theme, a staple of spring sports telecasts for over 40 years. Click here for a full obituary.

(Whether you’re from Westport — or Boston, Denver, LA or anywhere else — if you enjoy “06880,” please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Local politics, Transportation, Weather

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Roundup: Y Cap, Y Swim, Judith Marks-White …

Posted on June 15, 2024 | 12 comments

When the Westport Weston Family YMCA received permits for its new facility off Wilton Road, town officials insisted on certain restrictions.

One was a Planning & Zoning Commission limit of 12,500 members.

The Y has now reached that limit. They’ll institute a waitlist.

“Given that the mission of our Y is to welcome and serve all who walk through our doors, we are sorry to disappoint potential new members who want to belong to our vibrant community,” says CEO Anjali McCormick.

She assures current and future members, “we remain committed to providing you with the best experience possible.”

Members head to the Y all day, every day. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of the Y: Their 45th annual Point to Point Open Water Swim Race begins at 8 a.m. on July 28.

The 1-mile charity event draws swimmers to Compo Beach from across the Northeast.

All proceeds support the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s aquatics programs, including swim lessons and water safety training for children and adults.

Pre-registration is $60; the day-of-race fee is $75. The kids’ race is $15. Registration includes a swim cap, t-shirt and timing chip.

The top finishers earn prizes. To register and learn more, click here.

The start of the 2022 Point-to-Point swim.

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For many years, Judith Marks-White’s “The Light Touch” and “In Other Words” columns were required reading in the Westport News. Both won writing awards — as did many other stories by the talented local writer.

She died peacefully yesterday at Norwalk Hospital, surrounded by her family. The wife of the late artist/illustrator Morton Rosenfeld was 84.

Born on March 21, 1940 in Passaic, New Jersey, she attended Prospect Hill Country Day School in Newark, and Vassar College.

She then began her professional life in New York, at Time-Life Books.

In 1972 Judith moved to Westport. She soon became the humor columnist of the local paper. She also wrote for national magazines and newspapers.

She contributed to many children’s publications and “Chicken Soup for the Soul,” and wrote 2 novels. She received awards for both fiction and nonfiction.

Judith spent many years as an adjunct professor of English at Norwalk Community College, where she was named Teacher of the Year. In addition, she led writing workshops.

She is survived by her daughter Elizabeth (Andrew), and grandchildren Andrew and Caroline.

Funeral services will be held Monday (June 17, 1 p.m., Temple Shalom, Norwalk). Burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery in Westport.

Shiva will be held Monday (June 17, 4-8 p.m.) and Tuesday (June 18, 1-4 and 5-8 p.m.) at the home of Debbie Richman and Jeffrey Selden in Weston.

In lieu of flowers contributions in Judith’s memory may be made to the Westport Library.

Judith Marks-White

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Longshore Sailing School cares about the water — and the coast.

On Saturday, June 29 (9:30 to 11 a.m.), they’re sponsoring a coastal cleanup.

Kayaks are free — provided kayakers remove garbage and debris from the shoreline and Saugatuck River.

Even in an eco-conscious town like ours, there’s plenty of trash.

Longshore Sailing School has run similar events in the fast, with great success.

Click here to register; use the code “cleanup” at checkout. Bring your own gloves!

Longshore Sailing School kayaks, waiting to clean the coast. (Photo/Anne Bernier

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Three Westporters were honored at the 19th annual “40 Under 40 of Fairfield County” awards ceremony, presented by Westfair Business Journal.

Congratulations to Maxx Crowley of SCA Crowley Real Estate (and president of the Westport Downtown Association); Susannah Crowley of Bumble (now with TikTok — and not related to Maxx), and Mathias Sportini, a partner at FLB Law.

Over 100 nominees, all under the age of 40, were submitted by Chambers of Commerce and businesses in Fairfield County. The 3 local winners were nominated by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

From left: Maxx Crowley, Mathias Sportini, Susannah Crowley and Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell.

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Karlin Gray is not a soccer player. But like Mia Hamm, she grew up as a shy “military brat,” moving every year or two, and found great friends along the way. Coincidentally, she graduated from the same high school as Mia.

Now Karlin — a Westport resident — has written a graphic novel about the soccer star.

“Mia and Friends” follows a group of young women who made history at the 1999 Women’s World Cup.

Aimed at readers ages 7-10, it will be published August 27. Click here for more information, including a sneak peek.

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George Barrett — the 1973 Staples High School graduate who in his long life has sung with the Orphenians, played varsity soccer at Brown University, taught at Horace Mann, served as CEO of Cardinal Health, and last year returned to his longtime love of singing with the release of his first record — is now working on his second.

Meanwhile, the video for his newest song — “You’re Not Alone” — went live yesterday.

Recorded with the very talented Harmony Project, it’s a heartfelt ballad with a powerful message.

The video is equally stunning. And the beginning and end were filmed at Compo Beach — an important place in George’s life.

PS: George continues to work on his music with Brian Keane, the Grammy-winning and multi-talented 1971 Staples grad.

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MoCA CT’s next exhibition — “ColleCTomania” — includes over 140 Swiss posters from collector Tom Strong.

The New Haven-based graphic designer, photographer and collector has spent 60 years amassing, displaying and sharing his archive.

The exhibit runs June 27 through September 13. Click here for more information, and to RSVP for the opening reception (June 27, 6 p.m.).

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Yesterday’s rain knocked out an important day of the Yankee Doodle Fair.

Sunny skies are predicted today. The fair — a major fundraiser for the Westport Woman’s Club — continues at their Imperial Avenue site this afternoon and evening (Saturday, 1 to 10 p.m.), and tomorrow (Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.).

The rain also produced this gorgeous rainbow, looking southeast from Owenoke:

(Photo/Jonathan Prager)

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In recent days, “06880” has been inundated with deer photos, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Lovely as they are (there are no images of them eating plants, trees and shrubs), we can’t run them all.

But we can’t resist this one:

(Photo/Seth Schachter)

After checking out the Terrain greenery — and seeing that venison is not on the café menu — this fawn managed to safely cross the Post Road.

Oh, dear!

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And finally … on this day in 1752, Benjamin Franklin proved that lightning is electricity.

(The Y has reached its max — but not “06880.” You can still support our work! Just click here. Thanks for your help.) 

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Roundup: Supper & Soul, Passover, Shakespeare …

Posted on April 22, 2024 | 5 comments

In a town filled with high-profile, high-impact organizations working hard to make the world a better place, Westporters should be aware of AWARE.

Its name is not as well known as some others. But the group — whose acronym stands for Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education — quietly and efficiently gets stuff done.

And they do it in a unique way.

Each year, AWARE selects a women’s cause — female veterans, say, or breast cancer, literacy, or refugees and immigrants,

Then they partner with a charity working in that area. Through a fundraiser, hands-on activity and educational event, AWARE shines a light on specific women’s issue, all year long.

This year’s partner is Inspirica. The Stamford-based non-profit strives to end homelessness and housing insecurity by helping individuals and families achieve stability through support services, and affordable housing.

To raise funds for an Inspirica playground, AWARE is hosting a “Canvas & Cocktails” party. The event is Thursday, May 16 (6 p.m.) at Clarendon Fine Art, on Main Street.

Tickets are $75. Click here to purchase.

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Nearly 200 people rocked to West End Blend at the Westport Library last night, in the concert portion of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s Supper & Soul event.

Earlier almost 100 enjoyed dinner, at 10 downtown restaurants. And after the show, concert-goers went for drinks there too.

Chamber director Matthew Mandell says, “This translates into a direct infusion of over $6,500 into the local  economy.”

That “sounds” pretty good!

West End Blend, at Supper & Soul.

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Tonight is the first night of Passover.

John Kelley offers this history lesson:

“At the onset of Passover, Ashkenazi Jews abstain from eating products containing corn, including those sweetened with corn syrup.

“It didn’t used to be so bad, as products were traditionally sweetened using sugar.

“The person to blame is Edward Bedford — once Westport’s richest man. He was head of the Corn Products Company, and set out to convince companies to switch from sugar to lower-priced corn syrup.

“In the meantime, if you want Coke or Pepsi made with real sugar, stock up on the bottles with the yellow caps. They’re made with sugar, and are kosher for Passover.”

Edward T. Bedford

John Kelley is a wealth of information on famous former Westporters.

Responding to yesterday’s Roundup story on Henry Moses Judah — the Civil War general and Westport resident who last week, 158 years after his death, finally got a headstone, by his tomb at the cemetery on Wilton Road and Kings Highway North — Kelly writes:

“Henry Judah had a more famous brother, Theodore Judah, who surveyed the route taken by the first transcontinental railroad. San Francisco, where I now live, has a Judah Street named in his honor.”

San Francisco: N Judah train on Judah Street at 19th Avenue.

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Today is also International Mother Earth Day. This year’s theme is “Planet vs. Plastic.”

Longtime Westporter Aye Aye Thant — whose father U Thant was the third secretary-general of the United Nations — writes:

“The day recognizes the earth and its ecosystems as humanity’s common home and the need to protect her to enhance people’s livelihoods, counteract climate change, and stop the collapse of biodiversity.”

“In 1969 my father talked about the environment as an urgent and shared global challenge, and opened the UN’s first meeting on ‘the human environment.’

“He warned: ‘Never in the 25-year history of the United Nations has there been a problem of more relevance to all nations than the present environmental crisis.’

“On this day may I share my father’s prayer for our Mother Earth, as he rang the Peace Bell at the UN on Spring Equinox Earth Day, March 21, 1971:

“’May there only be peaceful and cheerful earth days to come for our beautiful spaceship earth. as it continues to spin and circle in frigid space with its warm and fragile cargo of animate life.'”

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Dorothy Abrams died peacefully in her home in Minnetonka, Minnesota yesterday, 4 days shy of her 97th birthday.

Dorothy lived in Westport from 1963 until 2010, when she moved to Minnesota to be close to her son David and his family.

She taught arithmetic at Kathleen Laycock Country Day School (now Greens Farms Academy), Roton Middle School and Norwalk High School before retiring to an active life of volunteerism and travel.

Dorothy was a member of the Westport Woman’s Club and the Nature Conservancy’s Devil’s Den Ordway Nature Preserve in Weston, and tutored students in the Bridgeport school system. She also served as an election judge in Westport.

Dorothy and her family were longtime members of Temple Israel, where she served for years on the Social Action and Caring Committees. She became an elder of sorts, sharing her institutional memory and guiding younger members as they led the congregation down paths of justice and comfort.

Long Island Sound was her happy place for nearly her entire life.

She is survived by her son David (Audrey), and grandchildren Rachel (Claire Steinhoff) and Sal Abrams. She was predeceased by her brother Eugene Cohn, sister Anne Werner, husband Arthur, and daughters Judith Abrams and Janet (Gene) Karoscik.

Dorothy’s funeral will be at the Temple Israel Cemetery at 225 Richards Avenue in Norwalk at noon on Thursday (April 25) — her birthday. The service will be livestreamed; click here.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fairfield County Chapter of the Nature Conservancy or a local food shelf.

Dorothy Abrams

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William Shakespeare’s actual April birthdate was not recorded. His birthday is now celebrated on the date of his death: April 23.

Tomorrow marks the 408th anniversary of his passing, at 52 years old. The Bard of Avon packed a lot of writing into that short life. (And with a quill pen, too.)

Alert “06880” reader Fred Cantor passes on this long, but interesting, Shakespearean tale. Read to the end, for the important Westport connection:

“There is a lovely small public garden in Stratford, Connecticut, at the entrance to what once was the site of the Shakespeare Festival, and is now known as Shakespeare Park.

“The garden is called Will’s Garden — but not for the reason you would think.

“It was named for Will Geer, the late actor who was best known for his role as Grandpa Walton.

“Before that fame, he acted at the Shakespeare Festival for a number of years.

“And before that he earned a master’s degree in botany, and became an avid gardener — including creating the herbarium at the entrance to what was then the Shakespeare Festival.

“The garden fell into a state of disrepair over time. Its revitalization was spearheaded by Stratford resident Christine Rodney, who was given the name of Sal Gilbertie as someone who could help.

“Sal — the owner of Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center in Westport — has been among the most generous of donors over the years. He has always told Christine: ‘Take as much as you want.'”

I’m not sure if roses grow in Will’s Garden. But if they do, I’m sure — thanks to Sal Gilbertie — they smell very sweet.

(Photo/Fred Cantor)

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Speaking of flowers: On any list of springtime delights, tulips must be near the top.

Colorful proof — though none is needed — comes from today’s “Westport … Naturally” image:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … when you saw today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo (above), you knew this was coming, right?

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on support from readers like you. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Westport Burgers, Weston Budget …

Posted on April 1, 2024 | 5 comments

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

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

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

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

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

Matthew Mandell: 20 burgers in 31 days.

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

We’ll also announce how Matthew is feeling.

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Jay Norris is a busy man.

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

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

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

Now he’s added a new gig.

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

Congratulations, Jay!

Jay Norris

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

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

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

Among the scenes:

(Photos/Rick Benson)

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No, this is not an April Fool’s joke.

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

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

Looks like they work!

(Photo/Lisa Gold)

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

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

Enjoy the serenity while you can.

(Photo/Susan Leone)

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And finally … happy April 1!

(Don’t be fooled: Information is not free. “06880” relies on reader support. We’re serious! Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you.)

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Roundup: Post Road Work, Club 203, Fermat Capital …

Posted on March 15, 2024 | 2 comments

Like most Westporters, I’ve gotten used to the construction cones, narrow lanes and drunken lines on the Post Road between Fresh Market and McDonald’s — and further east, near Bulkley Road by Stop & Shop.

Like most Westporters too, I’ve gotten used to seeing no work going on at either site — for months.

Will it ever resume? Is it done?

I asked Pete Ratkiewich. The Westport Public Works Department director pointed me to documents from a 2019 (!) Town Hall presentation.

They show intersection improvements, roadway widening and sidewalk work (click here to see).

So: No. It’s not over yet. Not by a long shot.

“They are only done partially on the north side. And they have a long way to go on the south side in both locations,” Pete says.

And, he adds, “you won’t see work start up again in earnest until the asphalt plants open.”

Work on Post Road East near Fresh Market.

Work at the Post Road East/Roseville Road/Hillspoint Road intersection.

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Speaking of the state Department of Transportation:

They’ll perform maintenance work on the Cribari Bridge this Monday night (7:30 p.m., to 5:30 a.m. Tuesday; March 18-19).

While the bridge is closed, traffic will be detoured to the Post Road.

When the sun goes down Monday, work will be performed on the Cribari Bridge. (Photo/Sam Levenson)

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St. Patrick’s Day came early for Club 203.

On Wednesday night, over 135 guests from Westport’s social organization for adults with disabilities partied at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.

The evening included entertainment by the Lenihan Irish Dance troupe, green bagels from Village Bagels, and green clover cookies from the Pantry.

Nearly everyone wore green. Everyone was Irish for the night. And everyone had a blast!

Club 203 goes green at the VFW.

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There is a new — and very friendly — face at the Westport Weston Family Y.

Angie is the “official greeter” on Monday and Thurday mornings, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. She then heads to the Wellness Center, keeping things clean and tidy.

Her employment is a partnership between the Y and Star Inc. She gets her first paycheck today, and is very excited.

When you see Angie, give back to her the same smile she gives you!

Angie

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The Bloomberg news article begins:

When thousands of homeowners in Florida and Louisiana purchased their hurricane insurance, they probably had no idea that John Seo stood to make a big profit if their properties got through the next three years unscathed.

Unbeknownst to them, Seo, a 57-year-old hedge fund manager in southern Connecticut, is the reason why millions of people from New Zealand to Chile have financial protection against natural disasters. His fund, Fermat Capital Management, owns the world’s biggest collection of catastrophe bonds — complex financial instruments that insurers issue to cover risks they can’t handle.

Fermat is an oddity in the hedge fund world. Its modest office, in the affluent town of Westport, sits in a former post office across from an auto-repair shop. There are meteorology journals in the reception area and equations scrawled on a whiteboard. Investment decisions are guided by complicated weather-risk computer models powered by large servers that whirr ceaselessly behind a glass window.

Fermat’s “modest office” is at the end of Riverside Avenue, just before it intersects with Railroad Place. Click here to read the rest of the piece about Seo, titled “How a Physics Whiz Made a Fortune Betting on Nature’s Catastrophes.” (Hat tip: Allan Siegert)

John Seo (2nd from left) and colleagues, at Fermat Capital. (Photo/Joe Buglewicz for Bloomberg)

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Next up in the Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand play reading series: “Tenderness and Gratitude Number Four.”

Michael is a party boy who avoids intimacy at all costs. Jenny is a jaded, wise-cracking office worker who still harbors dreams of becoming an artist. When the two strike up an unlikely friendship at work, they are forced to learn what it means to open up to someone else, and how to take a long, hard, messy look at oneself in the mirror.

The “a humorous, often heartbreaking examination of love, art, truth, lies, office politics, and the complicated road to true friendship” is set for April 15 (7 p.m.).

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

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We’re halfway through March. Which means our town is halfway through the Great Westport Burger Contest.

Competitors in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event include Black Duck, Boathouse, Harvest, Jr’s,, La Plage, Little Barn, Match Burger, Nomade, Old Mill Grocery, Organika, Rizzuto’s, Shake Shack, Southport Diner, Spotted Horse, The Blondinit, The Porch, The Whelk, Viva Zapata and Zucca.

The 7 categories are Best Classic Burger, Best Cheese Burger, Best Gourmet Burger, Best Veggie Burger, Best Non Beef Burger (fish, turkey, lamb…), Best Fast Food Burger, and Best Slider. Each Restaurant can enter up to 4 categories, but can win a maximum of 2.

Residents have until March 31 to visit the venues, enjoy their offerings, then vote on the Chamber’s website.

Yesterday, 17 current and former Representative Town Meeting members relished the chance to promote the contest, with lunch at Spotted Horse.

I wasn’t there. But I’m pretty sure I know what was on the menu.

Present and past RTM members, at Spotted Horse.

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What’s the state of college admissions today, in a post-COVID world? What should rising 9th and 10th graders be thinking about?

Those are some of the topics they (and their parents) can learn about, at a “College Admissions Planning for Rising Freshmen and Sophomores” webinar (March 21, 7 p.m.).

There is no charge for the S4 Study Skills event, but registration is required here. Click here to sign up.

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One post-college option: Be like Xander Winser. The Staples High School graduate is studying music production and sound engineering in London.

For his final project, he produced an entire album — in just 24 hours.

He streamed the entire project. Click here to enjoy.

Xander Winser at work (screenshot from Facebook)

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“Who” was that posing in Lucy Mattoo’s front yard, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature?

He spent some time trying to pull a grass snake from the retaining wall.

He did not succeed. I guess he’s not that wise, after all.

(Photo/Lucy Mattoo)

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And finally … in honor of the Westport Y’s new greeter (story above):

(From Post Road traffic to hedge funds, the YMCA to London, “06880” is “where Westport meets the world. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Westport’s Best Burger? You Be The Judge.

Posted on February 27, 2024 | 17 comments

Who is Westport’s Burger king?

It won’t be Burger King. They left a long time ago (replaced first by Arby’s, now Starbucks drive-thru).

But it will be some place local. Nearly 2 dozen restaurants vie for the title, in next month’s Great Westport Burger Contest.

The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event begins Friday (March 1), and runs through the 31st.

The Chamber has run contests for a variety of items — pizza, soup, salad — for the past 6 years. Burgers were last on the menu in 2019.

This year, 20 restaurants will compete in 7 categories. Judging is done by residents, voting online.

And every voter will be entered into a drawing to win a free burger from one of the 7 winning restaurants.

Competitors include Black Duck, Boathouse, Harvest, Jr’s,, La Plage, Little Barn, Match Burger, Nomade, Old Mill Grocery, Organika, Rizzuto’s, Shake Shack, Southport Diner, Spotted Horse, The Blondinit, The Porch, The Whelk, Viva Zapata and Zucca.

The 7 categories are Best Classic Burger, Best Cheese Burger, Best Gourmet Burger, Best Veggie Burger, Best Non Beef Burger (fish, turkey, lamb…), Best Fast Food Burger, and Best Slider. Each Restaurant can enter up to 4 categories, but can win a maximum of 2.

Residents have all month to visit the venues, enjoy their offerings, then vote on the Chamber’s website.

The Chamber encourages social media participation too, with the hashtag #greatwestportburger, and burger photos.

The winning restaurants will be announced April 1 (no fooling!), and will receive plaques.

Friday’s contest kickoff takes place at 11:30 a.m. at Match Burger Lobster.

Burger King was unavailable.

 

 

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