When Lou Kitchner — the beloved Bedford Middle School band director — lost his son in an automobile accident 7 years ago, the community rallied around.
Once again, others are trying to help him.
His 3-year-old granddaughter has been diagnosed with strabismus in both eyes. Her condition is progressing quickly. Without corrective surgery, she risks losing her vision.
On the day before Christmas — as kids everywhere were thinking of reindeer — 2 Westport deer got entangled together, with soccer netting, around Burr Farms Road.
It could have been tragic. But Wildlife in Crisis intake director Peter Reid arrived, and assessed the situation in his typical calm, knowledgeable way.
As he planned his strategy, the bucks did a thrust away from each other, freeing one deer.
However, netting was still wrapped around the leg and antlers of the other. Hopefully, he will free his leg, and that his antlers will soon fall off.
Julie Loparo, president of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates, urges Westporters to be aware of the hazards to wildlife presented by soccer and other outdoor nets.
Meanwhile, Reid — in his other role, as Westport’s animal control officer — is pursuing a tranquilizing program, for use in situations like this.
Susan O’Brien is a social worker, with a private practice in Westport. She writes:
“I regularly observe the heightened level of stress parents experience during this busy time of year. Calendars quickly fill with school events, social obligations and holiday preparations, often leaving parents feeling stretched thin. While these activities can be meaningful, it is important to remember that children value undivided attention far more than any gift or perfectly planned experience.
“I often encourage parents to focus on fostering meaningful connections with their children. One simple yet powerful recommendation is to spend just ten minutes a day in uninterrupted time together—free from phones, distractions, and schedules. During this time, allow your child to lead the play or activity. This creates a space for genuine interaction, emotional attunement, and connection.
“Quality, not quantity, is what matters most. Choosing one intentional activity—such as taking a quiet walk, reading together, or visiting the library—can have a profound impact. These moments communicate to children that they are seen, heard, and valued. Ultimately, what children need most is not more doing, but more presence.
“By prioritizing quality time and meaningful interactions, parents can strengthen their bond with their children and create lasting memories, even amid the holiday hustle.”
Susan O’Brien
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Among the Christmas Eve traditions observed last night in some Westport homes: the Feast of the 7 Fishes.
But those fishes don’t magically appear on plates. The meal takes plenty of preparation … including this, captured by Molly Alger yesterday at Superior Seafood:
All are also made (of course) by hand. That’s why the Italian-born baker calls his business Fatto a Mano (“made by hand”).
Until now, his many fans could buy his fresh-baked goods only at the walk-up window of his commissary kitchen behind Cycle Dynamics, or at the Westport and Ridgefield Farmers’ Markets, and Wakeman Town Farm.
Now Pierluigi is taking the next step, turning a long-time dream into reality.
He’s opening a retail location at 1835 Post Road East, next to Fjord Fishery across from Stop & Shop.
Breads and other baked goods will be delivered hot out of the oven from his kitchen, just a couple of minutes away.
Pierluigi plans to add specialty coffees, cooking classes, menu tasting, a selection of high-end retail products (local and important), and Farmers’ Market foodie collaborations to the menu.
He’ll start with breakfast and lunch, probably Wednesdays through Sundays. He’s shooting for a soft opening before Valentine’s Day.
Pierluigi knows Westporters are hungry — for his breads, and the opening of his new place. “06880” will feed you all the details. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)
Many Westporters have donated clothing to vicitms of the Los Angeles fires.
Corri Neckritz is donating 2 entire truckloads.
As the owner of 2 Groove stores (in Westport across from Whole Foods, and New Canaan), she’s got plenty of clothes.
Her customers have more.
When she heard how many Angelenos lost everything, Corri decided to help. Her daughters helped her contact people in California, who could accept and distribute donations.
She posted on social media. She expected a few hundred views, and a few donations.
It went viral: over 60,000 views.
People — customers, and those who’d never heard of Groove — dropped off enormous bags of clothes at her shop. She took them all — plus more, off the store floor — to her garage. It’s now overflowing with clothing, shoes and bags.
Corri Neckritz’s garage, 3 days ago. There are even more bags now.
Someone donaated a 26-foot truck. Corri got a very reduced rate on another — this one 58 feet long — which she is paying for.
This morning, the first truck will arrive, load up and depart.
Tomorrow, the larger truck will come. Corri has rounded up volunteers to help load it.
“I just want it all to get there soon,” Corri says.
Thanks to her — and generous customers and strangers — it will. (Hat tip: Joan Lipson)
Groove, on Post Road West.
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Another day, another animal rescue.
Yesterday, Westport animal control officer and Wildlife in Crisis intake director Peter Reid responded to a request for mutual aide from Wilton Animal Control.
A bald eagle had been sighted for a few days in the area. It was flying a bit, but staying on low branches. Yesterday, the eagle sat on a stone wall.
Officer Reid caught him safely. The eagle was very skinny and weak.
He was taken to Wildlife in Crisis, where he gorged on a large bowl of beef heart.
Officer Reid thinks the bird may be suffering from a bacterial infection, or be a victim of rodenticide poisoning.
Soon, hopefully, the eagle will soar again above our skies. (Hat tip: Westport Animal Shelter Advocates)
The Board of Education has one item on its January 16 agenda (7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria).
But it’s a big one: the board will discuss the proposed 2025-26 budget.
The meeting can be viewed on Cablevision Channel 78, will be livestreamed at http://www.westportps.org.
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The Westport Library kicks off Super Bowl week with a talk by Jeff Benedict.
On February 3 (7 p.m.) — 6 days before the big game — the author/producer/ commentator will discuss his book on the New England Patriots, “The Dynasty.” (Spoiler alert: The Pats will not be playing in New Orleans on February 9.)
Benedict spent 5 years inside the team. Sports Illustrated says he “slips inside, lowers the drawbridge, and waves us in to see the ramparts, towers, turrets, and castle keep where the Brady-Belichick-Kraft trinity ruled.”
The event is free. Click here to reserve a seat (and, if interested, purchase a copy of “The Dynasty”).
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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between January 8 and 15.
A 58-year-old Newtown man was charged with breath of peace, criminal attempt at assault on an elderly victim, and threatening, following a road rage incident near the Post Road East/Roseville Road intersection.
The 62-year-old complainant admitted that he instigated the incident, by blowin his horn and following a vehicle in front with the intent to harass. Both vehicles pulled into a parking lot and assaulted each other. The complainant shoved the other man, who pulled a boxcutter. The complainant returned to his vehicle, where the other man slashed at his jacket with the boxutter through an open window, ripping his jacket and undershirt.
The man who instigated the incident wsa given a misdemeanor summons for brach of peace, and following too closely with intent to harass.
A 56-year-old Fairfield man was charged with driving under the influence, traveling unreasonably fast and failure to drive in the proper lane, after an investigation into a single vehicle crash on Beachside Avenue last June.
A 19-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with larceny and identity theft, after a complaint about fraudulent checks totaling more than $5,600. He was held on $100,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 12 citations
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 6
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
Driving while texting: 4
Speeding over 70 mph: 3
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Assault: 1
Disorderly conduct: 1
Breach of peace: 1
Identity theft, and conspiracy to commit: 1
Illegal possession of personal ID information, and conspiracy to commit: 1
Reckless driving: 1
Failure to remove snow/ice from motor vehicle roof: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Improper turns: 1
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
It’s the law: You must remove snow and ice from your vehicle.
On May 18, Schoke Jewish Family Service celebrates 50 years of service to Fairfield County . The, with a gala at Temple Beth El in Stamford.
What began in the late 1970s with one secretary, a part-time director and a part-time social worker primarily focused on helping Russian immigrants resettle, has grown into a diverse service provider.
Schoke JFS now offers a wide range of programs, including counseling, geriatric care services, emergency assistance, and initiatives to combat food insecurity. The agency is also home to the Freedberg Family Kosher Food Pantry and the Kosher Mobile Food Pantry, Connecticut’s only kosher food truck.
An Evening with Schoke JFS features a cocktail reception, dinner, awards presentation and dessert.
And finally … in honor of Peter Reid’s heroic rescue yesterday:
(From Westport, Connecticut to Winslow, Arizona, “06880” is your hyper-local blog. If you enjoy our work, please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here — and thank you!)
When Oprah Winfrey strolled onto the Democratic National Convention stage last night in Chicago, her purple dress was not just something she grabbed from her closet.
It was not even a nod to the movie she produced: “The Color Purple.”
The symbolism was far stronger. A self-described independent, her full-throated endorsement of Kamala Harris was meant to appeal to both Democrats (blue) and Republicans (red).
Oprah
As for the eye-catching outfit — “a peplum-style jacket with sharp shoulders and matching wide-leg trousers … accessorized with simple rings and amethyst-purple earrings,” in WWD’s words — it had a Westport connection.
The Weston-based rehabilitation center — the largest in the state, caring for more than 5,000 injured and orphaned wild animals each year, from hummingbirds to black bears — was severely damaged in last weekend’s rain and floods.
On Monday, WIC said:
We have been receiving victims of yesterday’s terrible flood all day today in addition to giving advice on the phone. Countless waterlogged hawks are down, many just need time to dry, others are injured.
So far today we’ve received a juvenile bald eagle, hawks and owls, dozens of baby bunnies, opossums and squirrels, songbirds, turtles, gulls, herons, and bats all drenched and weak. Lots of incubators and heating pads going to warm and dry them first, and slowly we are beginning to hand feed and medicate as necessary.
All of our patients are safe, but our facility sustained significant damage from the record rainfall. The rushing rapids tore through our hill causing interior flooding, downed trees, damaged cages, and driveway erosion. In our 37 years here, we’ve never seen anything like this.
WIC staffers and volunteers field 20,000 calls a year. The center takes in animals from all over the state, plus New York and Massachusetts. Many Westporters use its services every day.
(Another “06880” connection: Besides working at WIC, Dara’s husband Peter Reid is Westport’s animal control officer.)
To make a donation to Wildlife in Crisis, click here. (Hat tip: Scott Smith)
To prepare: Sign in to your online account. Under “Account Options,” you’ll see your name with a pencil next to the edit button. Select the edit button; then choose the “Contact Info” tab.
Verify that your email address is current; select the save button at the bottom. You will be directed back to the “account options” page.
Under your family name, you will see your family members. Follow the steps below for each family member.
select “manage family members”
choose a name from the list
Under “Family Member Information,” make any necessary changes. Make sure that the grade (if applicable) is correct; hit “Save.”
Go to “Contact Information” to verify your cell/home phone, and provide carrier if interested in receiving text messages. Make sure your email is current. Click “Save.”
If you are not able to log into your online account, do not create another profile. Email recreation@westportct.gov or call 203-341-5152.
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Ukraine Aid International — the relief agency founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer — has done incredible work.
Since its creating just a few days after the Russian invasion began, the non-profit has provided over 300,000 people on the front lines with clean water, heat, medicine, food, and critical medical services.
Among its many projects, UAI has developed 9 “sister city” relationships with American and Ukrainian towns.
Westport was the first, with Lyman. In 2 years, we have donated over $300,000 — along with much-needed communications equipment, bulletproof vests, and more. 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas are in regular touch with their counterparts, and visited Lyman in May 2023.
Now Ukraine Aid International has been recognized — internationally.
The group earned 3rd place in the “Help From Abroad” category, at the Charitable Ukraine ceremony. There was stiff competition: 1,600 nominees.
The Mayers and UAI president Katya Wauchope say: “To be recognized on this stage, alongside global giants like Coca-Cola and Pepsico, underscores the significance of the work we’re doing together for Ukraine.”
The honor spurs Ukraine Aid International to redouble its efforts.
To donate, click here. Then click the “I want to support” box; next, select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)
There are many tragic stories from the floods that roared across Connecticut Sunday.
The collapse of Oxford resident Randi Marcucio’s house was particularly devastating. The ER nurse and single mother lost everything. (Click here for a harrowing News12 video.)
But yesterday, she was reunited with a special item she thought was washed away by the Housatonic River, forever: her son’s sonogram.
It was found 35 miles away — at Compo Beach.
Nancy Lewis found it, on her daily walk. Realizing it was important to someone, she Googled the name. Up came a GoFundMe to help Marcucio.
Lewis took it from there. She drove to Oxford, to give Marcucio the sonogram. The grateful mom called it “a miracle.”
Click below for the full story. (Hat tip: Peggy Lehn)
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Westport Police did not make any custodial arrests between August 14 and 21.
They issued these citations:
Failure to comply with state traffic control regulations: 10 citations
Distracted driving: 7
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
Driving while texting: 4
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 4
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
Failure to renew registration: 4
Following too closely: 2
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Larceny :1
Simple trespass: 1
Transporting a child under 2 without a restraint: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Improper turn: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Failure to carry insurance card: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
In Connecticut, children under 2 years old or weighing less than 30 pounds must ride in a rear-facing car seat.
Speaking of police: Janet Sparre reminds “06880” readers to pull to the side — and stop — when emergency vehicles with flashing lights or sirens on are approaching your vehicle from the front or the rear.
In fact, it’s a Connecticut law.
It’s also common sense.
Those lights and sirens are on for a reason. Today, first responders are racing to help someone else.
Yesterday’s Roundup included an incorrect date for the Japan Festival.
The correct date is Saturday, September 7 (1 to 4 p.m., Jesup Green).
The family-friendly festival — sponsored by the Japan Society of Fairfield County — features taiko drum performances, live plays of Japanese folktales, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional dancing.
And finally … on this date in 1902, the Cadillac Motor Company was founded.
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — from local wildlife, to Lyman. We’ve been doing it since 2009. But we can’t do it without readers’ help. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
One task of the Historic District Commission is to “take such action as the meeting may determine to oppose the issuance” of demolition permits, and “require the full 180-day delay,” of homes more than 50 years old.
The idea is to allow time for alternate plans to be developed.
That rarely happens. Whether immediately or after 180 days, developers almost always demolish.
Next Tuesday’s HDC meeting (7 p.m., Zoom) includes an especially large number of “delay” requests.
The first is for 125 Riverside — the Coley-Crossman home diagonally across from Assumption Church.
The others are:
2 Windy Hill Road
10 Bauer Place
32 Webb Road
21 Long Lots Lane
158 Compo Road North
159 Easton Road
33 Oak Street
20 Blue Ribbon Drive
35 Evergreen Parkway.
125 Riverside Avenue
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“06880”‘s newest feature wants to hear from any and all Westport “teens and tweens.”
This is your chance to share your thoughts, ideas and insights with our world.
Every kind of experience is welcome: good or bad, happy or sad. You can talk about local issues: what’s going on at school, with your sports or arts or other activities, the skate park, Community Gardens, downtown or anything else.
You can talk about what you love about Westport. Or what you hate.
You can talk about bigger issues: how the debate over Israel and Gaza affects you. What the upcoming election means to you — or why you don’t care. Ditto for climate change.
And you don’t have to limit yourself to writing. If you feel more comfortable expressing yourself through a video, podcast, music or art — send it along.
All submissions, in all mediums and styles, are welcome.
If you’d like your name used with your submission: great! If you prefer anonymity: also great! Just let us know.
The goal is to get your voice heard.
To start, click here; then fill out the short form. We’ll take it from there.
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Tammy Barry had a great experience yesterday, at the Greens Farms post office.
There were no $1 stamps available. So Paul helped her place 3 stamps each, on all of her daughter’s wedding invitations.
Then he hand-stamped them all, preventing them from any possible damage in the machine.
In addition, Tammy says, “he was so friendly with all the patrons. He called many of them by their first names.
“His frequent saying is ‘I got you!’ He’s the best!”
Their loyal customers will probably kill me (and Tammy) for revealing the secret, but the Greens Farms post office is a great alternative to the downtown one.
There’s seldom a line. And always a parking spot.
Paul (right) and colleague Frank, at the Greens Farms post office. (Photo/Tammy Barry)
Karen Mather had a great experience yesterday too.
It did not start out that way, though.
Driving down Greens Farms Road, she saw a adorable — but listless — baby raccoon, perilously close to the street.
She called Westport Animal Control (203-341-5076). Officer Peter Reid arrived quickly.
He told Karen that the mother had most likely been killed; the baby was looking for her.
Fortunately, Peter said, the little critter was just very hungry. It could be saved at Wildlife in Crisis in Weston — where his wife volunteers.
He brought it right over.
The non-profit facility accepts over 5,000 wounded, ill and orphaned animals each year. The goal is to heal them, then return them to their natural habitats.
Who you gonna call if you see a creature needing help? Westport Animal Control or Wildlife in Crisis.
They’re both local life-savers.
Peter Reid, saving a raccoon.
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Rhone — the men’s clothing store on Main Street and a longtime champion of mental fitness — is hosting an evening dedicated to the topic.
Tomorrow’s event (Thursday, May 30, Westport Woman’s Club, 5:30 to 8 p.m.) includes inspirational speakers, a silent auction, and a “Mind & Muscle” experience led by Eric Johnson. It combines dynamic workouts with mental health discussions, combining physical and mental well-being.
Speakers will share personal reflections of recovery, suicide prevention, and the importance of mental health,
Rhone co-founder and CEO Nate Checketts will deliver the keynote. Other speakers include professional trainer Zac Clark (“Bachelorette” contestant and Scarlett Johansson trainer), and Staples High School boys basketball coach Dave Goldshore.
All proceeds from ticket sales and the silent auction will go to Positive Directions. In addition, a generous donor will match funds up to $15,000.
There’s more: Rhone will donate 10% of proceeds from all purchases between May 31 and June 2 to Positive Directions.
Click here for tickets, and more information. Click here to bid on silent auction items.
“Art in Bloom” — a celebration of the Westport Public Art Collections, with drinks, light bites, art sales, a silent art auction, and a special exhibit of flower-themed works — is set for June 6 (7 to 9 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club).
This is the first fundraiser for Friends of WestPAC is 5 years. They welcome old and new friends, to ensure the continued growth, care, display and educational uses of the collections. Works are exhibited in public building throughout town, including schools, Town Hall, and municipal offices.
Artists include: Shirley Black, Paul Camacho, Leonard Everett Fisher, Hardie Gramatky, Clement Kamena, Lisa Daugherty, Jak Kovatch, Philippe Lejeune, Estelle Margolis, John Mavroudis, Howard Munce, Susan Malloy, Fred Otnes, Nancy Reinker, Walter Dubois Richards, Barbara Rothenberg, and others.
Those are some great names. Their work is varied, and outstanding.
Click here for tickets, sponsorship information, and donations.
Staples High School Class of 1997 graduate Lisa Marie Giallanza Sweeting died peacefully of natural causes at Danbury Hospital earlier this month. She was 45.
Her family moved to Westport from Georgia in 1983. Lisa began playing the violin in 4th grade. She played in the orchestra and sang in the choir at Staples.
She graduated from Arizona State University with a BA in broadcast management.
Lisa was the regional president of the MOMS club (Moms Offering Moms Support). She worked as the admissions coordinator at St. Joseph’s School in Brookfield, then as the office administrator and athletic director at St. Rose of Lima School in Newtown, Connecticut.
Lisa loved camping and annual trips to the Outer Banks.
She is survived by her husband, Russell Sweeting; children Lily, Ryan and Evelyn; parents Tom and Patricia, and brothers Tom Jr., and Michael.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Rose of Lima School, 40 Church Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470.
And finally … in honor of Peter Reid’s nice save yesterday:
(As today’s Roundup shows, Westport is filled with helpful, caring people. That includes “06880” readers! Please join the generous folks who support this blog. Just click here — and thank you.)
Julie Loparo is an animal rights advocate. She often shares uplifting stories of work by Westport Animal Shelter Advocates and Wildlife in Crisis.
Not today, unfortunately. She sends along this Wildlife in Crisis report:
A few weeks ago, on a lawn adjacent to the Saugatuck River, a very ill and lethargic adult female bald eagle was found by Westport Animal Control officer Peter Reid.
He immediately transported it to Wildlife in Crisis. Despite a great effort to save the magnificent bird, it died.
Wanting to know the source of the illness, Wildlife in Crisis sought a necropsy. It revealed that the eagle died from rodenticide. Its liver contained compounds used in mouse and rat poison.
It is upsetting to think that if nature had been left alone to deal with mice or rats, this eagle would still soar.
Peter Reid, with bald eagle.
Dara Reid, Wildlife in Crisis director, called this “a perfect specimen, unnecessarily poisoned through ignorance and apathy.
“But this is just the tip of the iceberg. The deluge of pesticides being sprayed throughout Westport should concern every resident, especially those with children.
“All summer at Wildlife in Crisis, we received calls about songbirds dead en masse under recently sprayed trees. This is the proverbial canary in the coal mine scenario. Poisons are never the answer; they only create more problems. Don’t believe anyone who tells you otherwise.”
(“06880” keeps a close eye on our town’s environmental issues. That’s part of our local journalism mission. Your donation helps greatly. Please click here. Thank you!)
On Saturday, Westporters received their municipal tax bills.
They’re driven, of course, by the mill rate.
In this week’s edition of “Westport … What’s Happening,: 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker discusses that mill rate. How does it affect property owners? How does it compare with neighboring towns?
Click below to listen. The podcast is a service of the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston.
Animal Control officer Peter Reid had a busy Friday.
Both highlight the need for residents to be more careful about what they toss in their yard, and use to handle “pests.”
On Friday he fielded a call about a groundhog in distress. Its head had become stuck in a discarded peanut butter jar.
Groundhog with a peanut butter jar …
Peter wrapped the trapped creature in a towel, and carefully removed the jar. The groundhog ran happily away.
Later that Friday, he received a call about a robin caught in a trap that was placed in a yard, perhaps to capture a chipmunk, squirrel or mouse.
… and robin, snared in a trap.
Peter freed the bird. Wildlife in Crisis is now caring for its broken leg.
Julie Loparo — a longtime local animal advocate — says, “In both instances, human carelessness caused great duress. We can do better. And I am very appreciative of a responsive town Animal Control, and having such a great resource such as Wildlife in Crisis in our back yard.”
A rescue of a different sort took place yesterday. Jonathan Prager reports:
“A boat was stranded on a sandbar between Compo Beach and Longshore for the better part of an hour.
“After the ‘women and children’ were successfully evacuated by a passing motorboat, TowBoat US arrived to push the boat safely to the nearest yacht basin.
“It’s nice to know recreational boaters enjoy the Sound with ample support.”
Club 203 — Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities — plans an exciting summer.
“Art Explorations” at MoCA are set for July 10 and August 14 (6 to 7:30 p.m.; $10). It’s a chance to relax, create art, hang out with friends and meet new ones. Click here for details and registration.
Members are also invited to a book club at the Fairfield Library. It meets every other Tuesday (4 to 5 p.m.). Email club203ct@gmail.com for details.
And finally … in honor of one of Friday’s animal rescues (story above):
(Westporters are grateful for Wildlife in Crisis. Please support it. And while you’re at it — please support “06880” too. Just click here — and thank you!)
Yesterday’s “06880” Roundup noted that several trees near Linxweiler House — on the Post Road between Fresh Market and McDonald’s — have been marked with pink tape.
Alert “06880” reader Andrew Colabella adds this information: “Those trees are proposed to be cut down for sidewalk installation and lane expansion.
“The state Department of Transportation also wants to cut down the 2 beautiful cherry blossom trees at Sakura.
“Want to save the Linxweiler trees, or have comments or concerns about the cherry blossom trees at Sakura? Email Joseph.Aiello@ct.gov.”
One of the trees possibly slated for removal near Sakura.
Sixty Artists Collective of Westport members recently received a 12-inch by 12-inch blank panel, and a 6-inch square section randomly selected from a single iconic music-themed painting.
Their assignment: Created an individual piece, replicating a part of the larger painting in their own style.
The catch: They would not know what the final painting would look like until it was revealed at an opening reception.
That reception came last night. A large crowd was there to see the finished, 10 foot-by-6 foot work.
The reveal!
Contributors include Miggs Burroughs, Katherine Ross, Michael Brennecke, Nina Bentley, Susan Fehlinger, Eric Chiang and Elizabeth DeVoll.
“Piece by Piece” runs is on display at the Library through May 9.
Westport Library director Bill Harmer addresses last night’s reception, before the reveal. (Photos/Dave Matlow)
Speaking of the Library: Their 2023 “Booked for the Evening” honoree is …
… Laura Linney.
The award-winning theater, film and TV actress will appear in person at the annual gala on July 13. Tickets go on sale in May.
For 24 years, “Booked for the Evening” has highlighted someone whose work “reflects the purpose of the Library: to nurture a love of learning, and to enhance our understanding of the world.”
Library director Bill Harmer says: “Laura Linney is not only one of the great actresses of her generation; she is also a lifelong supporter of the power of the arts and creativity, a humanitarian lauded for her work on behalf of cancer patients and their families, and a champion for women in film.”
Her film credits include Genius, Nocturnal Animals, Mr. Holmes, Kinsey, You Can Count on Me, Mystic River, Love Actually, and The Truman Show. Among her Broadway productions are The Crucible, Time Stands Still, Sight Unseen, and Six Degrees of Separation. On television she has starred in The Big C and the mini-series John Adams, as well as Tales of the City and Frasier. She currently stars as Wendy Byrde in Ozark, a role for which she has earned Emmy and SAG Award nominations.
Linney has been nominated for 3 Academy Award, 5 Tonys, and 8 Golden Globes.
Linney holds honorary doctorates from her alma maters, Brown University and The Julliard School. She has been honored for her work in cancer advocacy, and speaks often on reconsidering the arts as essential for success, easing the pain of cancer, finding beauty in tragedy, and navigating gender inequality in the film industry.
Previous “Booked” recipients include Shonda Rhimes, Tom Brokaw, E.L. Doctorow, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Oscar Hijuelos, Adam Gopnik, Will Shortz, Patti Smith, Barry Levinson, Jon Meacham, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Addario, Ron Chernow, Alan Alda, Justin Paul, Frederic Chiu and Itzhak Perlman.
Leonard Schine Aspetuck Land Trust Preserve on Weston Road was the site of a majestic owl release on Sunday.
Three barred owls — all found injured in Westport over the past two months — were freed. Joint rescues had been performed by the Westport Police Department and Animal Control. They were transported to Wildlife in Crisis for rehabilitation.
Animal Control officer Peter Reid says, “It is common for owls to be struck by cars at night. They often hunt in the ‘edge habitat’ by the roadside. Once they are on their glide path, they have little peripheral awareness of approaching cars.
“They can also be dazzled by headlights, become disoriented, and side-slip into a car. Fortunately these 3 suffered only minor injuries — head trauma and concussion — and were ready for release fairly quickly.
“This species is an early nester. They are courting right now, so the release gives these owls a chance to get back into the owl dating pool.
“One of the barred owls was from Partrick Road, one from Compo Road North by Winslow Park, and one from Bayberry. The Weston Road property was a good central release point, and relatively close to their points of origin, as the owl flies.”
Three WPD members helped with the release: Chief Foti Koskinas, Lieutenant Matthew Gouveia and Officer Dominique Carr.
Also involved: Reid’s wife Dara, director of Wildlife in Crisis, and their resident owl expert.
The theme for this year’s Memorial Day parade is: “Veterans Serving the Community.”
Certificates will be awarded in 6 categories: Best Development of Theme, Best Youth Organization Float, Most Creative, Best Community Organization, Most Colorful, and the Best Overall Float.
Groups should concentrate on the first 5. The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston have won the last 2,2462 “Best Overall Float” competitions, dating back to the Peloponnessian War.
The Memorial Day parade steps off on Monday, May 29 at 9 a.m.
The Y’s Men’s 2021 award-winning Memorial Day float. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Rick Kalmans was concerned about the slow pace of reconstruction on the Bayberry Lane bridge.
He contacted town engineer Keith Wilberg. He quickly responded:
“The construction of the bridge is now in the phase called the Connecticut Department of Transportation shutdown period, from December 1 through March 31.
“That doesn’t mean that no work can be done in that period, but the nature of the work tends to be limited.
“Also, as asphalt plants have closed for the season as of the second week in December, we cannot reconstruct and pave the roadway until they open. That will most likely be at the end of March, give or take.
“The contractor has about a month’s worth of work left to finish, so my estimate is that they will be done by the end of April. The ‘on paper’ finish date is the end May 31. It is my belief they will be done and have the road open long before that, again, end of April.”
The Democratic Women of Westport celebrate Women’s History Month with a special panel: “Women Leading in CT: Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow.”
The event (March 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club) features Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas (a Norwalk resident), former PepsiCo senior vice president Lori Tauber Marcus, Staples High School senior (and National Merit Semifinalist) Lilly Weisz, and League of Women Voters president Laura Smits.
The event is free. Light refreshments and wine will be served.
Longtime Westporter Carol Frawley died Saturday at St. Joseph’s Manor, surrounded by her family, after a brief illness. She was 86.
The Norwalk native was employed part time as a cashier at Peter’s Bridge Market when her children were in school. She also enjoyed working weekends at Planter’s Barn in Darien and Geiger’s Nursery in Westport, where she indulged in her love of plants and flowers, and shared her knowledge.
In 1977 she joined Pepperidge Farms’ headquarters in Norwalk, and stayed until she retired.
She was a lifetime member of VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 Ladies Auxiliary.
She is survived by her children Colleen (Edward) Mezerewski of Shelton, Debbie (Philip) Grabell of Milford, William of Shelton, Edward (Karen) of Milford, Michael (Stephanie) of Westport, James (Donna) of Fairfield; grandchildren Casey (Trinh) Mezerewski, Colby (Glendys ) Mezerewski, Jacob (Rachel) Grabell, Nicole (Thomas) Cadigan, Helen Frawley, Alex Frawley, Kyle (Elicia) Frawley, Katie (Scott) Frawley, Kenzie Frawley and Kieran Frawley, and great-grandchildren Trinity, Edward, Leia and Ethan Mezerewski, Kaylie, Adriana and Logan Mezerewski, Charlotte and Chase Cadigan, as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband Harold, andsisters Marcella Palinkas of Oklahoma, Georgianna Bolton of Norwalk and Joan Goulart of Norwalk.
Funeral arrangements will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carol’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
And finally … speaking of owls (see story above), Canned Head’s co-founder, co-lead singer, guitarist, harmonica player and primary composer was Alan “Blind Owl” Wilson. (It was either this, or a “Who” reference…)
(Today — like every day — “06880” rounds up every bit of news, big and tiny. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
“If you lived in Westport between 1990 and 2010 and had kids, you knew the Driscolls.
“Frank coached football at the youth and high school levels. Pam raised their 3 kids: Tara (Staples High School Class of 1998), Brienne (SHS ’00) and Frisk (’05).
“Pam’s house was open not just to her kids’ close friends, but the entire community. She always treated each guest like they were family.
“Tara, Brienne and Frisk were all stellar athletes. They also volunteered their time coaching and working in the community.
“Tara worked at Staples High School as a teacher (she is now at Stamford High School). Brie mentored dozens of young men and women through some of their toughest times. Frisk coached the Staples swim team to some of their most successful season.
“They’ve given so much to our community. They were, are, and always will be what makes Westport, Westport.
“Like so many others, I would not be who I am without the care and guidance of the entire Driscoll family.
“Now it’s our turn to support them.
“Tara (last name now Karlson) lives in Redding with her husband Scott and children, Brien (11) and Kelly (9).
“In the middle of the night on Valentine’s Day, a fire ripped through their home as they slept. All 4 were hospitalized.
“Brien — the strong-willed fighter of the family, a lover of people and animals — suffered life-threatening injuries. After giving all he had, he died February 15.
“Tara and Scott are now experiencing every parent’s worst nightmare. Kelly lost a best friend and only sibling.
“While they work to recover from this unimaginable tragedy, they will need our help.
“We ask everyone to lift them in thoughts and prayers. We also hope people consider donating to the family’s recovery fund. Please click here for the GoFundMe link.
“For questions, or donations of larger physical items, email KarlsonFamilyFund@gmail.com.”
Westporters and Westonites will pay slightly more for summer-long access to Westport beaches — and residents outside of those towns substantially less — if a decision by the Parks & Recreation Commission is approved by the Board of Selectwomen.
On Wednesday night, the board voted 4-0 to:
Raise the fee for an annual beach sticker for Westport residents from $50 to $60 ($30 for seniors and disabled residents, up from $25).
Raise the fee for Weston residents to $415 from $375 ($220 for Weston seniors, up from $200).
Lower the fee for “non-residents” to $545, from $775. The number of those stickers sold will rise to 450, from the current limit of 350.
Debate over the new fee structure did not include any references to a proposal in the Connecticut General Assembly to limit the fees any municipality can charge for town-owned beach parking to not more than twice the fees charged to residents.
Parks & Rec director Jennifer Fava said this would be the first change to the fee structure in 6 years.
Beach stickers are cheaper for Westporters than non-residents. (Photo/Mark Marcus)
Peter Reid plays 2 important roles: Westport animal control officer, and intake director for Weston’s Wildlife in Crisis.
On Monday — in his WIC role — he freed a buck from climbing netting draped between trees in a Weston back yard.
On Wednesday, wearing his Westport animal control cap, he was called by a Long Lots area resident about a vulture ensnared in soccer netting.
With a vulture clan circled overhead, Reid cut him free and brought him to Wildlife in Crisis. The raptor suffered severe talon abrasions, but will be okay. He is resting with skilled caretakers, and will be released when fully recovered.
These are the most recent incidents demonstrating the hazards that netting-type structures in yards and around town present to wildlife.
Julie Loparo — president of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates, who passed along these stories — says, “residents should be aware of such hazards and, whenever possible, remove them or flatten them when not in use.”
Bruce Salvo died last fall. But there was no obituary for the longtime Westport resident, noted architect and avid Westport Weston Family YMCA member.
Vanessa Costanzo offers this remembrance:
Bruce Salvo was a longtime family friend.
He was so kind to my kids and animals. Bruce often dog sat or cat sat for me. and for friends as well. He always sent pictures to us to let us know how they were.
Bruce spent several holidays with our family. He was always gracious and kind. He valued those close friendships, and went out of his way to help in any way.
A few times a year, Bruce dropped off flowers from his beautiful garden in a bud vase. He was an incredible gardener, and took great pride in his garden (which was absolute perfection).
As an architect, Bruce helped us with work we were doing on our house any time we asked. He would come by, and we would talk at length about the highs and lows of life.
The last time I saw him he was struggling with illness, but he always inspired me by his strength, sensitivity and value of life. I am a better person, and my family and friends are better people for having him in our lives.
Bruce and his life here should be honored now and forever.
After missing 2020 because of COVID, the annual Westport Woman’s Club carnival has shifted from its traditional June date to September.
What hasn’t changed are the site — the Imperial Avenue parking lot next and adjacent WWC — and the attractions: rides, games, raffles, food, sand art and more.
Or the cause: raising funds for philanthropy.
The Yankee Doodle Fair runs today (Friday, 6 to 10 p.m.), tomorrow (Saturday, 1 to 10 p.m.) and Sunday (1 to 5 p.m.).
Click below for a special video, created last year by Doug Tirola’s 4th Row Films, highlighting the 2019 event.
Affordable housing — what it means, where to put it, how it fits in to the suburban and statewide landscape — is a controversial topic.
Next Tuesday (September 28, 6:30 p.m., Zoom), State Senator Will Haskell and State Representative Stephanie Thomas host a bipartisan panel: “Affordable Housing in Our Community.”
Panelists include Westport Planning & Zoning Commission chair Danielle Dobin, and her Wilton counterpart Rick Tomasetti. The moderator is Heather Borden Herve, editor of “Good Morning Wilton.” Click here to register.
Among Westport’s affordable housing options: Sasco Creek Village.
Wednesday’s Roundup included details of the upcoming Blessing of the Animals, at Saugatuck Congregational Church.
Looks like Westport’s animals will be twice blessed.
On the same date (Sunday, October 3, 9:30 a.m.), Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church will offer its own courtyard Blessing of the Animals. It’s part of the annual Feast of St. Francis.
All animals — and humans — are welcome.
Blessing of the Animals, at Christ & Holy Trinity Church.
It’s almost October. Almost time to say goodbye to your garden, for the year.
How do you do it? On October 18 (7 p.m.), Wakeman Town Farms hosts “Putting Your Garden to Bed: The Pollinator Friendly Way.
Nathalie Fonteyne joins WTF master gardeners and coaches Alice Ely and Ryan Brunelle to share tips on what to cut down and what to leave, how to recycle and compost the last greens as the garden prepares for its long winter nap, and what vegetables you still have time to plant to ensure a healthy, beautiful garden next spring.
But there’s no band livelier than Band Central. The “house band” for CLASP Homes — the Westport-based nonprofit serving adults with autism and other developmental disabilities — headlines the organization’s first in-person, indoor event in nearly 2 years.
On October 15 (6:30 p.m., Fairfield Theater Company), they’ll play songs from Motown, and soul greats like Aretha Franklin, the Commodores, Earth Wind & Fire and more. Special guests will join in.
$40 tickets to the benefit include a pre-party, and an art show with work by CLASP residents. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Speaking of music: Scott Barr loves venues like FTC, the Levitt Pavilion and Capitol Theater, plus bars and other spaces to see local (and national) acts. He particularly enjoys seeing bands in small, intimate spaces, then watching as they achieve great success.
Every so often you stumble upon an entertainment event or a scene that must be witnessed and it usually happens where you least expect it.
He’s done it with the Spin Doctors, Blues Traveler, Joan Osborne and Phish. More recent examples include The Record Company playing at Roton Middle School, and the Revivalists and Black Pumas playing at StageOne.
Now, Scott says, a music scene is happening in Westport “right under our noses.”
Every Tuesday night at 8, a band called Residual Groove (aka KRIS or JEDD ) plays at Dunville’s. This week, members of Goose played with them.
“They have special guests all the time, and their playlist is for all ages,” Scott reports. “If anyone is looking for a fresh new scene and great music, check it out.”
He gives a special shoutout to Dunville’s owner Steve Carpentieri, for making it all happen.
Residual Groove (with special guest Peter Anspach from Goose, center) at Dunville’s.
“We are lucky to have this wildlife rehabilitator right in Weston,” Jayne says. They are great, dedicated people. Over the years I have brought them birds, squirrels, opossum, and all manner of forest creatures.”
Lifelong Westporter John Stahursky died Tuesday at Fairfield County House in Stamford. He was 86 years old.
John graduated from Staples High School in 1953, and retired as a mechanic from Slez Garage in Westport. He loved gardening and farming, and volunteered for many years maintaining the lawns and flower gardens at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Fairfield. John grew from seed, then donated, countless plants to the parish for sale at their annual picnic.
He was honored with the St. Augustine Medal, from the Diocese of Bridgeport.
John enjoyed restoring Model A Fords, which were driven in Westport’s Memorial Day parades.
His family remembers him as “a hard working man, always ready with a smile and happy to help others in need.”
Survivors include his siblings Bernard Stahursky of Westport, Wanda Ornousky of Norwalk and Bertha Matis of Westport, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews.
John was predeceased by sisters Jean Kral, Helen Rutski and Sophie E. Stahursky, and brothers, Joe, Frank and Steve Stahursky.
A funeral will be held Monday (September 27, 9:15 a.m. from the Dougiello Fairfield Funeral Home, and 10 a.m. in St. Anthony of Padua Church with a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will be in Assumption Cemetery in Westport. Friends may call Sunday (noon to 3 p.m).
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in John’s memory to St. Anthony Parish, 149 South Pine Creek Road, Fairfield, CT 06824 or Fairfield County House, 1 Den Road, Stamford, CT 06902.
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” scene is familiar, yet fresh:
And finally … singer Sarah Dash died Monday. She was 76.
According to the New York Times, she “brought her church-rooted soprano and high harmonies to Labelle, which began as a 1960s girl group before reinventing itself as a socially aware, Afro-futuristic rock and funk powerhouse, costumed in glittery sci-fi outfits and singing about revolution as well as earthy romance.”
It’s not often that an organization writes a tribute to an animal.
But “Bear 211” — the animal, named for its State of Connecticut tag, that lumbered through Westport for the past several weeks — touched many hearts.
“Bear 211” was struck and killed by a hit-and-run motorist yesterday, in Easton. Weston-based Wildlife in Crisis posted this tribute on social media:
He was known as “Bear 211” due to the unsightly plastic tags pierced through his beautiful ears. He had a Facebook page. He was beloved by residents of Westport, Weston and surrounding towns.
He swam in pools, he sat on porches, he lingered on lawns and he roamed. He weighed 120 pounds, a yearling bear. He touched the hearts of many during his short time on this earth.
Close encounter of the bear kind, near Weston Road. (Photo/Denny Galindo)
On July 26th, this majestic bear was critically injured after being hit by a car and local police officers ended his suffering. We are heartbroken at Wildlife in Crisis.
We’ve raised orphaned bear cubs and know first-hand just how endearing this species can be. We are proud of our community for their compassion for this bear.
There is much we can learn from Bear 211. As suburban sprawl has overtaken Fairfield County, we are now more than ever stewards of the wild animals that live amongst us. We can all make a difference for wildlife from bears to butterflies, by being good stewards.
Enlighten your neighbors. Leave mature trees standing. Don’t use pesticides, rodenticides or herbicides, and work towards banning them. Allow half your lawn to grow into a life giving meadow. Don’t trap wildlife, leave them be. Keep cats indoors and supervise your dogs.
The bear on Old Hill. (Photo/Stella Wong)
It’s really easy and so fulfilling to live in harmony with nature. We must teach our children to be tolerant and respectful of our ecosystem.
Incessant development killed this bear and so many other wild animals. Lack of foresight has caused the overdevelopment of our towns.
Traffic is out of control. There’s no time for bureaucracy, there is no time for procedures; the time is now to preserve what little is left of open space. All privately owned land will be lost to development unless it is permanently protected. The most meaningful thing we can do as a community to honor Bear 211’s memory is to actively preserve remaining open space.
Black bears now live amongst us. Or we live amongst them, depending on your point of view. The maturation of our forests in Connecticut have given rise to a growing bear population.
This bear roamed Westport in 2019. (Photo/Alec Shutze)
Unfortunately, these forests are now bisected by roads and endless suburban sprawl. Black bears are omnivores, with a preference for succulents, greens, roots, nuts, seeds and berries. They will prey on fish and occasionally newborn fawns in the spring, bringing natural balance to our ecosystem. They vary in color from white to brown to black.
Mating season is in May and June with delayed embryo implantation happening in the fall once female bears have sufficient fat reserves. They only breed every other year, and only if they are fit enough to raise young. One to five cubs are born in the mother’s winter den and remain with her for 18 months. 2 cubs are the norm.
These charismatic megafauna are at the center of folklore and fairy tales. In real life we need to admire them at a distance. A bear habituated to humans will eventually be killed. Black bears will almost always retreat from humans. If they are nervous they will sometimes bluff charge-pounce once, slam their front feet down, blow loudly, and sometimes smack their lips.
In 2013, Cablevision News 12 aired this shot of a black bear in Westport.
Blustery bears are not about to attack, they are simply showing their discomfort around humans before they retreat or tree. Keep your distance from bears and they will do the same. Don’t run from a bear, simply walk away. Bears are easily scared by clapping, yelling and a water hose if necessary. Just use common sense.
Keep bird feeders far from your house. Supervise your dogs! Keep garbage in bear proof containers or closed securely in your garage. A little ammonia in a garbage can will mask food odors.
Bears have an incredible sense of smell and are now bulking up for winter. They are not true hibernators, they will emerge from dens on warmer winter days, especially if they are on the thin side.
Let’s appreciate these magnificent creatures by respecting their space and keeping remaining trees standing, especially old growth trees that produce vital life giving mast. Live and let live.
PS: Much appreciated donations in Bear 211’s memory can be made on our website.
Donations will be put towards our bear program and the care of our thousands of patients hit by cars every year. Protecting habitat is the most important thing we can do for wildlife.
We urge people to make it abundantly clear to their elected officials, that open space preservation is a quality of life issue for people and wildlife. We need to preserve more open space pronto!
We have a Wildlife in Crisis Land Trust. Anyone who wishes to contribute towards the purchase of open space can specify that it go towards our land trust. Wild animals cannot live without proper habitat, especially large animals like bears.
Thank you for your compassion and support. Rest in Peace 211, we will never forget you!
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