Staples Boys Track Team Takes FCIAC Title

The Staples boys track team won top honors at today's Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference (FCIAC) Boys Indoor Track and Field Championships held at Staples. The Wreckers' record 12th FCIAC championship was won with 98 points, 20 points better than defending champion Danbury. Staples won its last championship 12 years ago when it was a co-champion with Danbury. The Staples students are in the back row of this group picture of all first- and second-place winners at the meet. Meanwhile, in a nearby gym, the Staples wrestling team defeated four other teams to sweep a five-team meet, improving to 19-12 on the season. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Betsey Lebow for WestportNow.com

Nine-Letter Word for Type of Puzzle

Several dozen crossword puzzle fans turned out today for the Westport Public Library's sixth annual crossword puzzle contest. New York Times Puzzle Editor Will Shortz (left, white shirt) distributes puzzles to the three finalists -- (l-r on platform) Terry Bernstein, Norman Davis and Philip Winer. They and other contestants had 20 minutes to complete each of four puzzles. None of the finalists completed the last puzzle, but Winer was the winner because he had the fewest blank spaces. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com

Westport Pays Tribute to Irwin Donenfeld

Westport's Town Hall auditorium was packed today for a memorial service for Irwin Donenfeld, a 22-year member of the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) who died last November. (See WestportNow Nov. 30, 2004). Family, friends, and representatives of Westport's Police and Fire Departments paid tribute to the longtime chair of the RTM Public Protection Committee. First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell addresses the gathering as Gordon Joseloff, RTM moderator (and WestportNow.com editor) looks on. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com

Historic Abel Bradley House May Be Saved After All

The 200-year-old Abel Bradley House on Sturges Highway on the Westport-Fairfield line may be saved after all.
131 Sturges Highway: national historic listing closer and sale negotiations have begun with developers. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com

Neighbors fighting to save the historic house announced that they have received support from the state that could lead to accelerated listing of the property on the National Register of Historic Places, giving it some protection.

They also said that they have entered into negotiations with the developers of the property for possible purchase. The house had been scheduled for demolition March 3, the group said.

Eleanor Dickey, a Fairfield resident and neighbor who has led the fight to save the house, said Connecticut's State Historic Preservation Office voted to accept the building for study for the national listing.

Although the step does not in itself provide protection for the house, it gives official sanction to the preservation effort by offering independent certification of the Bradley House's historic and architectural value, she said.
Side view: shows the bell-shaped gambrel roof, the most distinctive and historically significant architectural feature of the structure. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

It is the first step towards a listing that could eventually provide some protection, Dickey said.

The state's move was unusual because of its rapidity -- National Register nomination is typically a 90-day process.

But it was accomplished in only a few weeks because of the urgency of the threat to the building and the level of public concern that had been aroused not only in state but elsewhere as well, Dickey said.

"I have found wonderful support for the cause," she said. "We have great neighbors."

Dickey, a professor of ancient Greek at Columbia University who grew up in a house across from the Bradley House, said the Coalition for Preservation of the Bradley House had entered into negotiations with developers Mark Iuraduri and Mike Horvath aimed at selling the group the property.

Although details of the negotiations were not revealed, the group said it was optimistic about the outcome.
Eleanor Dickey: leading fight to save Bradley house. File photo

"We have the ability to make them a reasonable offer that will cover all their costs so far and give them a profit," said Dickey, president of the group. "But they may want more than we can offer, and therefore our fund-raising campaign is by no means over."

She urged those interested in helping save the property to contribute. The group has already collected about $12,000 in donations, she said.

Tax-deductible contributions should be made out to the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation and mailed to the Bradley House Preservation Fund, Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, 940 Whitney Ave., Hamden, CT, 06517.

If the house is not saved, contributions will be returned to the donors, Dickey said.
Historic sign: the house's age is no secret. Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

Meanwhile, the Fairfield Conservation Commission voted unanimously Thursday night to recommend that Westport apply the Fairfield setbacks of 95 feet to any replacement building on the Bradley House site.

The 2.58-acre lot is bisected by a tributary of Sasco Creek, which runs primarily through Fairfield but crosses Sturges Highway just north of Wellington Drive, runs through two properties in Westport, and then re-crosses into Fairfield at Fleming Lane.

In Fairfield, the stream is protected by 95-foot setbacks because of the particular pollution problems of Sasco Creek, Dickey said. Two Fairfield neighbors had appealed to their Conservation Commission to try to get similar protection for the few hundred feet of the stream that run through Westport.

Although Fairfield's recommendation is not binding on the Westport Conservation Commission, which will consider the issue Feb. 16, the two towns have an agreement to cooperate on the Sasco Creek pollution problems, Dickey said.
Holiday spirit: the front door of the Bradley House is still decorated for Christmas. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

If accepted, Fairfield's recommendations would have a significant impact on the size of anything that could be built on the Bradley House lot, she said.

Most of the site is already designated wetlands, and the proposed change in setbacks would reduce the remaining buildable area by more than half, according to Dickey.

Another boost of support for the neighbors came from the Fairfield Historical Society which voted official endorsement of the preservation effort.

In doing so, it joined the Westport Historical Society and the Fairfield and Westport Historic District Commissions, which are already on record as supporting preservation of the house.

The Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, which provided the neighbors' coalition with a tax-free restricted fund for contributions, also endorses the effort, as does the Fairfield County Preservation Trust.
Straddles town line: Abel Bradley house is at 131 Sturges Highway on the Westport-Fairfield town line. MapTeam for WestportNow.com

The trust arranged for pro bono legal representation through the firm of Robinson and Cole as well as for the assistance of a real estate broker.

"Every single relevant organization in the area is now fully supporting us," said Scott Williams, coalition first vice president.

"And now that the State of Connecticut is involved as well, we hope the developers will understand the importance of this building and will be willing to sell it to us at a reasonable price."

Abel Bradley, a bootmaker, was a veteran of both the American Revolution and the War of 1812. He was also a member of the distinguished Bradley clan, which settled much of Westport and Fairfield.

Architecturally distinctive and perhaps unique in Westport, the Abel Bradley house is described in the Westport Historic District Commission records as "one of the most authentic and complete early houses in Westport.

"Additionally, it is the only known gambrel with the graceful bellcast roof shape." Many original features remain, such as wide-plank floors, mantels, plaster, and center chimney, according to the commission.

The house was inhabited for 50 years by Ruby Brotherton, and was sold last November to its new owners for $600,000 by Carol Adelman of Westport.

According to the Westport Historical Society, Abel Bradley purchased four acres in Osbornes Long Lot from John Hyde in 1800 and constructed the house.

More information on the preservation effort can found on a Web site of the Fairfield County Preservation Trust.

Saturday, Feb. 5, 2005

1 p.m. Westport Public Library - Sixth Annual Crossword Puzzle Contest
2 p.m. - Westport Town Hall Auditorium - Memorial service for former Representative Town Meeting member Irwin Donenfeld
7 p.m. - Saugatuck Congregational Church - Thespianage 2005: A Staples Players Gala
8 p.m. Seabury Center, 45 Church Lane - Westport Arts Center presents singer Maura O'Connell

Update: How Fairfield Murder Suspect Was Captured

In the end, Christopher DiMeo, suspect in the Fairfield jewelery murders two days ago, just gave himself up to police surrounding an Atlantic City motel where he had taken at $39-a-night room with his girlfriend a block from police headquarters.

DiMeo, 23, surrendered peacefully this afternoon after heavily armed officers from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies surrounded the Ascot Motel, where DiMeo and his girlfriend had checked in Thursday.

Police evacuated the dingy 80-unit motel before a city police negotiator reached DiMeo by phone. After about an hour of talks, an unarmed DiMeo - convinced there was no way out - surrendered, according to Maj. John Hunt of the New Jersey State Police.

"He was very calm," Hunt said.

DiMeo is suspected in the Wednesday slayings of jewelry store owner Timothy Donnelly and his wife Kimberly Ann Donnelly in Fairfield.

DiMeo is also suspected of killing Thomas Renison and stealing about $100,000 worth of jewelry on Dec. 21 in Glen Head, N.Y. He is also suspected of two other jewelry store robberies, in Westbury on Dec. 5 and in Nanuet on Jan. 26. He allegedly stole nearly $200,000 worth of rings.

Police tracked DiMeo to Atlantic City, where he had apparently arrived on a bus Thursday.

An alert was issued to casinos and local police by the state police casino unit. The alert said DiMeo was a known heroin addict and gambler who should be considered "extremely dangerous."

DiMeo's girlfriend, identified by Ascot Motel workers as Nicole Pearce, had paid for the night in Room 203 when the couple checked in Thursday morning, according to a front desk worker named Jeff, who refused to give his last name.

"She came down and was going to pay for another night but someone from the Marshals Service knew she was involved and they took her outside and searched her and took her away," he said.

Authorities said the woman was being held tonight on a fugitive warrant from California, but further details were not immediately available.

DiMeo never entered the motel office, according to general manager Betty Gatewood.

The motel is across the street from the Tropicana Casino and Resort and is one block from the city's Public Safety Building.

New Jersey Attorney General Peter Harvey was huddling there with Atlantic City school officials and representatives of local police and state police about a recent wave of violence in the city.

"Talk about bad timing on his part," Harvey said later. "He's got the top law enforcement people from the county and the state literally one block away from where he's holed up."

Hunt said there was no evidence DiMeo committed any crimes in Atlantic City. He was being held on a parole violation from New York state, but is suspected in four robberies and three homicides, Hunt said.

In Fairfield, police said DiMeo would likely be charged with the Connecticut shootings.

DiMeo hasn't yet been charged by Fairfield police, although Fairfield Police Chief Joseph Sambrook said he hoped to have a warrant issued on Saturday.

If ballistics from DeMio's gun match the Connecticut shooting, "I would think it would be a capital felony case" making it eligible for a death sentence if DeMio is convicted.

"We are thrilled with the job all the police did -- New York, Connecticut and New Jersey," said Mike Donnelly, brother of murder victim Timothy Donnelly. Flowers were left today in front of the Donnelly store. "Goodbye Tim and Kimberly" was written with a heart on a sidewalk sign nearby.

The couple had been selling jewelry for more than two decades, with a large offering of Celtic items.

"They always talked about one of these days they're going to make it to Ireland," friend Maria Regan said.

Back in Atlantic City, police searched the motel room after the arrest, hoping to find the weapon or weapons used in the shootings. Officers at the scene wouldn't say what they found.

DiMeo, who walked out of the room with his hands up, was hustled into a waiting sedan and taken to the Atlantic County Jail, where he was still being processed late today.

He is expected to be arraigned Monday in state Superior Court, but an exact time had not been set, according to Ramona Howze, criminal division manager.

The siege preceding the arrest shut down a three-block section of Pacific Avenue and cut off gamblers - or anyone else - from entering the Tropicana for hours.

In addition to more than a dozen Atlantic City Police Department vehicles and about six state police SUVs, an armored state police vehicle with "Homeland Security" emblazoned on the sides screeched up to the scene.

Officers in riot gear, with M-16 rifles slung over their shoulders, could be seen assembling outside the motel before the arrest.

Police called occupants of the Ascot Motel and told them what was happening, telling them to stay put. Then police went room by room and escorted the guests out, Hunt said.

"About Paint" Opens at Westport Arts Center

"About Paint," an exhibition featuring 29 artists' bold and often daring use of paint, opened tonight at the Westport Arts Center. Curated by Westporter Alberta Cifolelli, Joyce Thompson and Ben Ortiz, the show runs through March 18. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Erin Hauber for WestportNow.com

Update: Suspect Arrested in Fairfield Murders

A 23-year-old man wanted in connection with the murder of two jewelers in Fairfield and a third in New York was arrested without incident today in Atlantic City, N.J.

Police said Christopher DiMeo was arrested when he surrendered at about 3:05 p.m. in a motel on the casino strip after about an hour's negotiations over the phone with an unnamed city police officer.

"He was very calm," said New Jersey State Police Maj. John Hunt. DiMeo was unarmed, Hunt said.

The most recent attack was in Fairfield on Wednesday, when jewelry store owner Timothy Donnelly and his wife Kimberly Ann Donnelly were killed and robbed of an undetermined amount.

DiMeo is suspected of killing Thomas Renison and stealing about $100,000 worth of jewelry on Dec. 21 in Glen Head, N.Y.

He is also suspected of two other robberies, in Westbury on Dec. 5 and in Nanuet on Jan. 26. He allegedly stole nearly $200,000 worth of rings.

The motel was surrounded by state police and other authorities before DiMeo surrendered. "He knew full well we were there," Hunt said.

Police called every room in the motel and told the occupants what was happening and that they should remain in their rooms. Officers then escorted each room's occupants out of the motel, Hunt said.

There is no evidence DiMeo committed any crimes in Atlantic City. He is being held on a parole violation from New York state, but is suspected in four robberies and three homicides, Hunt said.

Fairfield Detective Sgt. Gene Palazzolo said he expects DiMeo to be charged with the Connecticut shootings.

"DiMeo has been taken into custody without further incident," he said. "We have an individual we consider extremely dangerous and armed now in custody."

Fairfield Police Chief Joseph Sambrook said if the murder weapon is recovered and ballistics match the bullets recovered in the Fairfield shooting, "I'm sure we'll be charging him with these homicides."

DiMeo was to be taken to the Atlantic County Jail in Mays Landing and likely will be arraigned Saturday in state Superior Court, Hunt said.

Motel officials did not know DiMeo was there until authorities told them.

Authorities through investigative leads learned that DiMeo was in Atlantic City as of 10 a.m. Friday. They tracked him to the Ascot Motel on the casino strip.

He had arrived on a bus, according to Hunt, who did not know where the bus had originated. Hunt also did not know when DiMeo arrived in Atlantic City.

State Panel Approves $38.4 Million Funding for Westport Sewer Upgrade

Connecticut's State Bond Commission today approved a $38.4 million funding package to upgrade Westport's sewage treatment plant.

State Sen. Judith Freedman and state Reps. Joe Mioli and Cathy Tymniak hailed the authorization of more than $8 million in state grants and a $29 million state low-interest loan as much-needed and overdue.

“The last major upgrade and hydraulic expansion of the facility took place in 1974, therefore much of the plant’s equipment has reached or exceeded its useful life," said Freedman, a Republican, who praised Gov. M. Jodi Rell for her support in securing the funding.

"I voted for the appropriation as a member of Westport's Representative Town Meeting and I am very pleased to see the Bonding Commission has acted swiftly on the package," said Mioli, a Democratic freshman in the state legislature.

"This funding will upgrade sewage treatment and help protect Long Island Sound, at the least cost to local property taxpayers," said Tymniak, a Republican, whose district includes the Greens Farms section of Westport.

The state financing package involves a grant of $8,214,369, a loan of $29,308,869 and administrative costs of $900,000.

The project includes upgrading and expanding the existing wastewater pollution control facility and the hydraulic expansion of two pump stations.

State Police: Fairfield Murder Suspect's Car "Spotted in Westport"

Christopher DiMeo: report that murder suspect's car was spotted in Westport turned out to be false. Contributed photo State police alerted Westport and neighboring communities today that a car similar to that belonging to a man suspected of murdering two persons at a Fairfield jewelery store Wednesday was spotted this morning on the Sherwood Island Connector in Westport. But the report turned out to be false.

Troop G in Bridgeport said a Department of Transportation employee spotted a black, older model SUV that he said had a California license plate and possibly was driven by Christopher DiMeo at about 5:30 a.m. on the roadway between Post Road East and I-95.

When the driver saw that he had been seen, he took off to I-95 exit 18 a short distance away and headed north, the state police said. Police later interviewed the DOT employee and determined the car was not that of DiMeo.

Police have said that DiMeo, 23, originally from Glen Head, N.Y., is 5-foot-8, 170 to 190 pounds and a heroin and gambling addict. They said he is armed with an automatic pistol.

There was no immediate explanation why there was a more than three-hour delay between the time the DOT employee said he saw the suspect vehicle and the alert broadcast to area police departments shortly before 9 a.m.

Meanwhile, police said today that ballistics tests prove the gun used to kill Timothy and Kimberly Ann Donnelly in Fairfield was the same weapon used to slay a store manager in a previous New York robbery.

DiMeo is now a suspect in four robberies and three killings at jewelry stores in Connecticut and New York.

Bullets used in the Fairfield killings matched those used in a fatal shooting at a jewelry store in Glen Head, N.Y., said Fairfield Det. Sgt. Gene Palazzolo.

"We can now say definitively it's the same weapon," Palazzolo said.

Palazzolo said authorities have received several reported sightings from around the country, including this morning's in Westport.

"We're going to check it out," Palazzolo said, noting the DOT employee would be interviewed.

He later said he doubted that DiMeo would still be in Fairfield County but urged the public to continue to call police if they believe they have spotted the suspect or the car.

In Westport, there were stepped up security precautions at jewelery stores in town. Westport police detectives visited the stores to distribute photos of DiMeo and to review security measures.

Security was especially tight at the recently-opened Tiffany & Co. store in Westport's center.

Several private security guards are on duty at the store during business hours and video surveillance cameras constantly scan the interior as well as adjoining exterior areas.

The Lux Bond and Green jewlery store on Main Street was robbed last Nov. 3 of watches and jewlery. No one was injured in the incident and police said the suspect was a black male.

The robbery took place as employees at the Tiffany store down the street were preparing for an evening reception celebrating the store's official opening the next day.

Today's Westport Teardown: 34 Newtown Turnpike, Built in 1760s

Today's WestportNow teardown is at 34 Newtown Turnpike. A demolition permit has been applied for. The Westport Historic District Commission imposed a 60-day delay on demolition at its Feb. 8 meeting. The house, built in the 1760s, is also known as 2 Heron Lake Lane. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com

Helping Sponsor Tonight's Levitt Pavilion Gala

RBC Dain Rauscher of Southport is the entertainment sponsor of tonight's Levitt Pavilion Mardi Gras 2005 winter fund-raiser at the Inn at Longshore. Pictured are (l-r) Richard Siderowf and Gena Reda of RBC Dain Rauscher and Freda Welsh, the Pavilion's executive director. Proceeds from the event featuring the Roomful of Blues band will help underwrite more than 50 nights of entertainment this summer at no charge to the public. More information is available at the Pavilion Web site. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo

Westport's Paul Newman in Florida Preparing for Daytona Race

Fresh from a lavish Westport bash last weekend celebrating his 80th birthday and 47th wedding anniversary, Westport's Paul Newman is in Florida preparing for this weekend's Rolex 24 racing event at Daytona.

Newman talked to reporters Thursday, showing off a Newman Racing/Silverstone Racing Ford Crawford Daytona Prototype with No. 79 emblazoned on its side.

"I'm starting to lie about my age, as you can see," said Newman. "The car says 79 on it. Next year it will be 78, then it will be 77... "

Marveling at Paul Newman's age has become an annual ritual at the Rolex 24, according to the Palm Beach Post. For Newman, though, age is something to enjoy, to laugh about.

"I try to mentally move myself backward in time," he said in response to a recent question about how he prepares mentally for an endurance race.

"Yesterday I spent a lot of time sucking my thumb trying to get back to my childhood.

"I may joke about it," he added, turning serious for a moment. "I guess we all try to push the envelope as much as we can. Sometimes you make a mistake — we'll see whether this is a mistake or not."

Newman had a party at his Westport home Saturday night marking his 80th and his wedding anniversary.

His wife Joanne Woodward was still entertaining house guests Wednesday, according to Alison Harris, executive director of the Westport Country Playhouse, where Woodward is artistic director.

She told Wednesday's brown bag lunch at Town Hall that Woodward had hoped to be a surprise guest with her at the luncheon but could not make it because she still had house guests from the weekend celebrations.

Gossip columnists reported that guests attending the bash were treated to the live sounds of the Emerson String Quartet, followed by dinner where the cake was in the shape of a racing car.

Friday, Feb. 4, 2005

6:30 p.m. - Westport Arts Center - Opening reception "About Paint" exhibit
7 p.m. Inn at Longshore -- Mardi Gras 2005 to benefit Levitt Pavilion

Planning and Zoning Commission Considers Mahackeno Traffic Issues

Westport's Planning and Zoning Commission tonight heard from neighbors of the YMCA's Camp Mahackeno and Y officials about traffic issues in the area. The Y has announced plans to move its headquarters to the site from downtown. P&Z members closely questioned the neighbors and Y officials as they considered whether the Y is in compliance with a special permit issued for the Mahackeno operation. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo

Fiery Saugatuck Accident Sends One to Hospital

A fiery three-car accident tied up evening rush-hour traffic in Westport's Saugatuck section tonight and sent one person to the hospital.

The accident occurred at the intersection of Saugatuck Avenue and Treadwell Avenue at about 5:35 p.m.

The Westport Fire Department responded to what was intially described as a car fire at the location but upon arrival found that it was a three-car accident.

One car smashed into a utility pole and fire broke out in the engine compartment, according to reports from the scene.

Westport EMS transported one person to Norwalk Hospital with injuries that witnesses said did not appear life-threatening.

Westport Kiwanis Club Hears About Children's Nutrition

Kirsten Osterland, nutritionist and personal trainer at Westport's Saugatuck Rowing Club, talked about children's nutrition at Wednesday's meeting of the Westport Kiwanis Club. Her appearance coincided with members' participation in the Kiwanis International's "Skip-a-Meal" program in which the cost of a luncheon is donated to the Kiwanis Children's Fund which supports children and youth programs. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Kim Cooper for WestportNow.com

Westport's Terex Corp. Updates Outlook

Westport's Terex Corp., the world's No. 3 maker of construction equipment, indicated in a statement issued today "in response to market rumors" that it could beat earnings expectations in 2005.

The company -- located at 500 Post Road East -- said it expects earnings in the range of $3.40 to $3.60 per share on revenue of $5.4 billion to $5.6 billion.

Analysts surveyed by Thomson First Call forecast 2005 earnings of $3.50 on revenue of $5.13 billion. Wall Street is expecting the company to report earnings for 2004 of $2.47 per share.

"As previously reported, many of our businesses are experiencing increased demand and we expect that demand to continue in 2005," said Ronald M. DeFeo, chairman and chief executive, in a statement.

"But as I have also previously stated, the challenges of supplier issues, particularly steel pricing, continue to have an effect on our business."

DeFeo also said he expects 2005 will be "more normal year" where volume leverage can be used to boost its margin. The company recently announced it would restate financial statements for 2001 to 2003 due to accounting errors.

Westport Property Transfers Jan. 24-28, 2005

Property transfers as reported by the Westport Town Clerk's office for the period Jan. 24-28, 2005:

Lloyd Lyman Mahone Trust to Rina K. Pianko, 270 Hillspoint Road, $2,950,000

Joseph R. and Melissa R. Signorile to Leigh Overland, 173 Roseville Road, $746,000

John J. Giunta Sr. Revocable Trust to Robert J. and Lou Ann Giunta, 283A Saugatuck Ave., $1,500,000

Mary H. Singer to Mohonk Education and Neuropsychological Foundation, 66 Weston Road, $500,000

Floyd B. Conlin Jr. and Mary E. Conlin to Michael and Christine Carey, 7 Windrush Lane, $1,795,000

Westport's Top 10 Taxpayers Listed

The top 10 taxpayers in Westport -- all but one an office building or shopping center -- accounted for almost $2.3 million of taxes collected in 2004, according to Tax Collector George Underhill.

The sole non-office building or shopping center was Connecticut Light & Power, the power utility that serves Westport. It was taxed on its power substations and utility poles in the community.

The list:

1. Nyala Farms Inc. $790,687.74
2. Connecticut Light & Power Inc. $411,660.93
3. 55-57 Greens Farms LLC $203,291.10
4. Nyala Farms Inc. $153,463.32
5. Irving Byelas Irrevocable Trust $133,438.56
6. Westport View Corp. Center LLC $125,267.07
7. Gorham Island Associates $121,175.91
8. Compo II LLC $118,700.82
9. Compo Acres LLC $115,400.70
10. Samuel J. Heyman Trustee $109,314.93

Total Tax: $2,282,401.08

Westport Grand List Up 3.2 Percent in 2004

Westport's grand list – the full-value estimate of all taxable property in the community including real estate, motor vehicles, and personal property -- increased 3.2 percent in 2004 to almost $6 billion, according to town officials.

"It's a healthy increase," Finance Director Don Miklus said Wednesday.

He said the $185.7 million increase as of Oct. 1, 2004 to $5,978,015,659 was partially due to the addition of a backlog of building permits that had been included in the year's total.

The properties were added after it was discovered that the assessor's office had a backlog of permits involving about 1,200 properties – some dating to 1998 -- that had not been included in the list.

Tax Collector George Underhill said real estate accounted for $5,558,941,210 of the 2004 grand list total, a category increase of 3.16 percent – or about $170.6 million.

Motor vehicles showed the largest increase – 7.5 percent, or about $20.1 million -- for a 2004 total of $288,373,136. There were 24,773 vehicle accounts on the list, Underhill said.

Personal property on the grand list showed a 3.7 percent decrease, down about $5 million to $130,701,313 from the previous year.

Miklus said when Westport's revaluation of its properties is completed this year, he expects a hefty jump in the grand list, The current grand list is based on values of 1999, the last year a revaluation of properties was conducted.

The Board of Finance will consider the value of the grand list along with the town's budget needs when it sets the tax rate for the 2005-2006 tax year in June.

A Winter Walk

Bright sunshine and brisk temperatures were just right for a walk in Westport's Sherwood Island State Park. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

Westport Police Alerted Following Fairfield Robbery That Killed Two

Westport police were alerted Wednesday night following a brazen early evening armed robbery of a Fairfield jewelry store that left the two owners dead, a police source said.

Westport patrol officers – especially those in the Greens Farms area -- were told to be on the lookout for a dark-colored SUV possibly containing the suspect, a white man in his 20s, with a stocky build, 5-foot-8 with curly hair.

Police later said they were looking for Christopher DiMeo who is wanted in connection to a series of jewelry store robberies in Westchester, Rockland, and Nassau counties in New York.

The gunman walked into the Donnelly Jewelry on Fairfield's Post Road at about 6 p.m .and shot the owners – Timothy Donnelly and his wife Kimberly Ann, both 52, police said.

State police assisted Fairfield police in the shooting – the first murder in Fairfield in nine years – and put out an alert on the state police "hotline" alerting neighboring communities, including Westport.

Westport's Lux Bond and Green jewelers on Main Street was robbed last Nov. 3 of watches and jewelry at about 5:40 p.m. No one was injured in the incident.

Thursday, Feb. 3, 2005

7:30 p.m. - Town Hall Auditorium - Planning and Zoning Commission work session

Getting a Peek at the New Staples Wing

Members of Westport's Representative Town Meeting and other officials toured the new wing of Staples High School today. Staples Subcommittee chair Dan Kail (r) said the heating and cooling system of the $74 million project was still in its "start-up phase" and acknowledged that a few problems had been encountered. But he said none was major and that they were being cleared up quickly. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo

Correction: Ex-Westport Broker Pleaded Guilty to Willfully Filing Late Return

In a story on Oct. 2, 2004, WestportNow quoted a Connecticut Post article which incorrectly reported on a federal court appearance of a former Westport real estate broker.

The newspaper said that Linda Landan, 48, had pleaded guilty to failing to file a 1999 federal tax return. The next day the newspaper issued a "clarification" saying that the charge actually was that she willfully failed to file her 1999 tax return on time.

In an e-mail message to WestportNow today, Landan called our attention to the newspaper's clarification and said she had paid the government $214,000 in fines and penalties. WestportNow regrets the delay in publishing a similar clarification and has corrected the story.

Westport's Martha Stewart to Star in New Version of "The Apprentice"

With little more than a month to go in her jail sentence for obstructing justice, Westport's Martha Stewart's post-prison life is becoming a little clearer. NBC said today she will star in a new version of Donald Trump's "The Apprentice.''

Stewart will do a spin off of the reality program which will have contestants competing for a job at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc., NBC Universal President Jeff Zucker said on a conference call.

Mark Burnett and Trump will be executive producers. They did not say when the show will start.

"She is an amazing woman,'' said Trump today. "She will do an amazing job.'' Trump said he has been in contact with Stewart and that "her mood is fantastic.''

Burnett is the producer of reality programs including "Survivor'' on CBS as well as "The Apprentice.''

Stewart also plans to star in a daily one-hour daytime television show next year that will be created by Burnett. The program will have a live audience and feature Stewart's cooking and decorating tips.

Burnett said today the agreement for Stewart to do "The Apprentice'' was made before she went to the federal women's prison in Alderson, W. Va., last October.

She is scheduled to be released next month and will serve five months of house arrest at her home in Bedford, N.Y. But she will be permitted to work 48 hours a week outside of her home.

Playhouse Entering Community Fund-Raising Phase

Attendees at today's Town Hall brown bag lunch got an update from the Westport Country Playhouse on its $30.6 million renovation and endowment funding project. Alison Harris, Playhouse executive director, said the Playhouse has another $3 million to go and is beginning a community fund-raising phase that it hopes will attract smaller gifts from Westporters and other neighbors. She said the Playhouse is on schedule to mark its 75th anniversary in its renovated home in June. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo

RTM Postpones Action on Underage Drinking Ordinance

In an almost four-hour meeting Tuesday night, Westport's Representative Town Meeting (RTM) postponed action on a controversial underage drinking ordinance. The legislative body heard several dozen citizens in favor and opposed to the ordinance which, for the first time, would permit police to issue tickets to underage drinkers on private property. The RTM will take up the ordinance again at its March 1 meeting. (Editor's Note: The editor of WestportNow.com is also RTM moderator.) (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

Listening to the Debate

Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell (3rd l) listens to the RTM debate Tuesday night about the underage drinking ordinance. Farrell, who strongly supports the measure, told the audience she understood the difficulty people were having with deciding their position on the controversial proposal. She is seated with members of the Westport Youth Commission, which had been working on the ordinance for three years, and members of the Westport Police Department, which would oversee its implementation. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

Staples Students Deliver Anti-Ordinance Petition to RTM

Staples High School sophomores (l-r) Stefania Urist, 16, and Jordan Zarrilli, 15, tell the RTM Tuesday night they oppose the proposed underage drinking ordinance . They presented the body with a petition containing 430 signatures of students also opposed to the measure they said they collected over two days. Urist's mother, Sandra, a member of the Board of Education and its former chair, said she, too, was against the proposal "because I think it is flawed, the language is flawed, and it intrudes on the rights of parents to make decisions for themselves." (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

Westport Youth Commission Co-Chair Favors Underage Drinking Ordinance

Staples High School senior Allison Perrin, co-chair of the Westport Youth Commission, tells the RTM Tuesday night why she and the commission favor an underage drinking ordinance. RTM Moderator Gordon Joseloff listens. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

"Many Students Wish We Had as Many Parties as You Think We Do"

Audience members, including many Staples High School students, listen to the RTM's debate Tuesday night on the underage drinking ordinance. One student told the legislative body: "I know many Staples students wish we had as many parties as you think we do." (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2005

7:30 a.m. - Town Hall Room 309 - TEAM Westport Committee
10:30 a.m. - Town Hall Room 102 - International Hospitality Committee
Noon - Town Hall Room 309/307 - Citizens brown bag lunch

Westport Schools Release Connecticut Mastery Test Results

Westport school officials today reported the latest results of the Connecticut Mastery Tests, given to fourth, sixth and eighth graders this past fall.

They said Westport students scored uniformly high, ranging from 81 to
94 per cent at or above the state goal.

An announcement said "year-to-year comparisons are not especially useful" because different groups of students are being examined.

It said this year such comparisons are particularly questionable since, in 2004, fewer special education students were exempted from the test or allowed to test “out of grade level," producing somewhat lower results in several categories.

"In general, longitudinal comparisons of two-year’s growth show scores up in four of the six categories, when comparing students who took the tests as fourth graders in 2002 and as sixth graders in 2004, and students who were in sixth grade in 2002 and are now in eighth grade," the announcement said.

It added, "Again this growth is even more impressive given the change in the number of special education students in the groups."

The announcement said Westport stacks up well within its Educational Reference Group (ERG), a cluster of 11 towns with comparable demographics.

On the nine subtests reported, Westport topped the ERG in two, tied for first place in one; came in second in one, fourth in one, fifth in two, sixth in one and eighth in one.

Individual students’ scores have been reported to parents, the announcement said.

False Alarm, Connecticut Not Being Evacuated

Connecticut emergency management officials have apologized for an erroneous message sent to state broadcasters today saying an evacuation of the state had been ordered.

State emergency management officials believe someone pressed the wrong button.

Instead of running a test of the emergency alert system, midday television viewers and radio listeners were told that the state was being evacuated.

“There is absolutely no evacuation or state emergency,” said Kerry Flaherty, of the Office of Emergency Management. “It was an erroneous message.”

The department was investigating how the alert was sent.

Officials said it is manually released to broadcasters.

The error prompted Gov. M. Jodi Rell to issue a statement reassuring residents.

“We are looking into the circumstances and will take every step necessary to make certain this type of problem does not reoccur in the future,” she said.

State police said they received no calls related to the erroneous alert.

Red Cross Chapter Seeks "Unsung Hero" Nominations

The Mid-Fairfield County Chapter of the American Red Cross said today it is seeking nominations for "Unsung Heroes" from Norwalk, Westport, Wilton and Weston to honor at its 10th Annual Unsung Heroes Breakfast next month.

“An Unsung Hero is someone who, in their own way, makes a difference in the lives of our residents and our community and does it out of the goodness of their heart, never expecting to receive any recognition,” said Erin Butler, director of community programs for the Mid-Fairfield County Chapter.

“This event is a chance not only to recognize what they have done, but also to say thank you.”

Examples of an “Unsung Hero” include, but are not limited to, an exceptional mentor or volunteer, going above and beyond the call of duty, saving a life, working “behind the scenes," a Good Samaritan, or caring for the ill or elderly as a volunteer.

Nominees do not have to be Red Cross volunteers, but they must live or have completed the services in the four towns. Their acts must be ongoing or have occurred between March 1, 2004 and March 1, 2005. The nominee cannot have been formally recognized previously.

For a nomination form, contact the Mid-Fairfield County Chapter at (203) 227-9505 or stop by the chapter house located at 36 Church Lane, Westport. Those interested can also log onto the Red Cross Web site and print a nomination form.

The deadline for nomination forms is Feb. 11. Those selected as Unsung Heroes and their nominators will be notified by mail.

Heroes will be honored at the Unsung Heroes Breakfast Monday, March 7 at the Continental Manor in Norwalk at 7:30 a.m. Details on the breakfast will be released in February.

Mid-Fairfield County Red Cross Planning for April 30 Gala

The Mid-Fairfield County Chapter of the American Red Cross has begun preparations for its second annual fund-raising gala, “Carnivale" in collaboration with the New Canaan Chapter Red Cross, the chapter announced today.

The event, to be held at The Westin Stamford on Saturday, April 30 from 6:30 p.m. to midnight, will feature dining, dancing, a “Copa Show” by Broadway performers, as well as live and silent auctions.

Tickets are $250 per person and black tie is optional.

“Many people are unaware of the services the Red Cross provides, from responding to local house fires to training the lifeguards at our beaches,” said Missy Iatesta, gala co-chair and Weston resident.

“This event is not only an opportunity to enjoy a unique night on the town, but also a chance to learn more what the local Red Cross chapter does for your community.”

In addition to the fundraising aspects of the evening, the chapters will each honor a resident from their chapter territory who has established long and distinguished record of giving back to the community through volunteerism, philanthropy and participation.

Nancy Beard, a dedicated Red Cross volunteer and Westport resident, will be honored by the Mid-Fairfield County Chapter.

The proceeds from the gala will go towards supporting local Red Cross services in the communities of Norwalk, Westport, Weston, Wilton and New Canaan.

For information on the gala, to volunteer, become a sponsor or receive an invitation, contact Carol Fishman at the Mid-Fairfield County chapter at 227-9505.

More Honors for Staples Science Students

Two students at Westport's Staples High School have been named winners in a national science competition, it was announced today.

Staples senior Amanda Zarrilli and junior Jon Sellon are two of the five national winners of this year’s American Academy of Neurology, Neuroscience Creativity Award, the announcement said.

The competition asks students to design a study based on current neuroscience research.

Amanda's proposed experiment focused on studying the genetics of depression, and Jon's research proposal focused on studying how music affects attention deficit disorder.

Both students received a certificate, a check for $100, and a $100 gift certificate to buy neuroscience books, the announcement said.

This is the third year out of the last four that Staples has had multiple winners in this competition.

Getting Ready for Saturday Night's "Thespiagage 2005" Gala

Broadway veterans will take the stage with Staples Players members and alumni Saturday evening at "Thespianage 2005," a fund-raising gala to benefit the award-winning Staples Players High School theatre club at the Saugatuck Congregational Church. The evening will feature cabaret-style performances like Mein Herr, from the Broadway show "Cabaret" (pictured), as well as live and silent auctions, and a champagne and dessert buffet. For tickets and/or further information, e-mail splayersparents@aol.com, or call (203) 341-1310. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Kerry Long for WestportNow.com

Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2005

8:30 a.m. - Town Hall Room 201 - Westport Transit District Directors' Meeting
7 p.m. - Town Hall Room 309 - Shellfish Commission
8 p.m. - Town Hall Auditorium - Representative Town Meeting (live coverage on cable channel 79)

Web Ready at Long Lots

The PTA at Westport's Long Lots Elementary School has formally launched its class Web page project. Its goal is to support teachers in creating and keeping current class Web pages. The entire third grade teaching team at Long Lots is now represented with a Web presence. Shown are (l-r) Long Lots teachers Kerin Tighe, Francesca DeRosa and Beth Messler working on their class Web pages. Parent volunteer Beth Lloyd-Thomas offered her support. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo

Gov. Rell Expects Approval of $39 Million for Westport Sewer Upgrade

Gov. M. Jodi Rell said today she expects the state Bond Commission to approve $39 million in funding for the Westport Water Pollution Control Facility when it meets Friday.

The funds -- a $29.3 million loan and a $9.7 million grant -- will be used for upgrading and expanding the existing facility and for the expansion of two pump stations.

Westport's public works director, Steve Edwards, said he was pleased that the governor is supporting the request but will hold off celebrating until it actually happens.

"I won't be opening a bottle of champagne until it's done. She's a little more confident than I am," he said, noting that bond counsel has derailed such approvals in the past.

The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) had approved $37.7 million in funding for the project at its Oct. 5 meeting. The vote was contingent on the state coming up with partial funding of $8 million for the project.

Edwards said the additional $1.3 million in the state funding package -- the difference between the $37.7 million approved by the RTM and the $39 million before the Bond Commission -- will go to expenses of the Department of Environmental Protection.

Westport had been pressing for state Bond Commission approval since the fall, only to watch the request fail to make it on the body's agenda in December and then January, Edwards said.

He told the RTM in October that the plant was built in 1960 and had gone through several previous upgrades. But he said the time had come for the town to provide for its future by undertaking the needed modernization.

In her statement endorsing Westport's request, Rell said that equipment that is decades old will be replaced and new devices will be installed to remove nitrogen before treated water is discharged into Long Island Sound.

“Bringing the Westport Water Pollution Control Facility into the 21st century is vital to the health and safety of local residents and the health of one of our most precious natural resources, Long Island Sound," she said.

"Replacing the equipment and expanding the facility will allow the town to ensure that wastewater is treated efficiently before disposal."

The governor added that upgrading the Westport facility renews the state’s commitment to advanced wastewater treatment, protecting the environment and cleaning Long Island Sound.

“Government must take action to preserve its valuable resources for future generations,” Rell said.

The funding before the Bond Commission includes a $29,308,869 loan and $9,718,890 in grants from the Connecticut Clean Water Fund. Monies will be used for design, construction, planning and administration.

The governor thanked State Sen. Judith Freedman of Westport for her efforts in securing the funds.

Today's Westport Revival: 123 Compo Road South

By Emily Laux
Contributing Editor
WestportNow.com

Property Details:
Owners Jenny and Tim Robson live at 123 Compo Road South with their four children and two dogs. The house, built in 1853, was 2,500-square feet when they purchased the property in 1999.
123 Compo Road South: "We just didn’t even consider tearing down this house." (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

In 2002, they added 1,000-square feet to one side of the house to create a new kitchen, larger family room, and master bedroom suite upstairs. The family lived there throughout the project, which took nine months to complete.

The 0.50-acre property includes a separate garage with a small upstairs apartment that was built in the 1920s for the owner’s chauffeur.

Revival Q & A
WN: Do you believe you “saved” your house from being torn down?
JR: I suspect we saved the house from being torn down, since that’s what has happened since 1999 in our neighborhood. The house behind us — an old converted barn — was torn down in 2001.

WN: Why didn’t you tear down this house?
JR: We just didn’t even consider tearing down this house. We really wanted a house that had some history. And we loved being surrounded by barns—the Gault barn across the road is magnificent, and it’s been a real source of inspiration for us.
Jenny Robson: No financial benefits but plenty of others.(CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com

WN: Have there been financial benefits to restoring rather than tearing down?
JR: Probably not.

WN: What was the biggest surprise during your project?
JR: We discovered there was no foundation at all under the part of the house we were adding on to. It was a 1960s addition, so it should have had a foundation. That brought us over budget a bit.

WN: Have there been non-financial benefits to restoring rather than building new?
JR: Oh, yes, many. The previous owner told us this wonderful story about a man who arrived one day in the 1980s at the house in a Cadillac convertible wearing a big ole Stetson hat. He had been born in what is now the laundry room. Those kinds of stories really keep things in perspective for us.

WN: Are there other benefits?
JR: Well, we have this apple tree. The man who built this house was a hardscrabble farmer who grew apples, and the tree is a reminder of that.

WN: Do you eat the apples?
JR: Oh yes! Our apples are “cookers” and they’re ready in July. In fact, I just ordered a special apple-picker for next summer. And last night for dessert we had apple pie that I had baked and frozen in August. There’s not a snip left.

WN: Final question: do you have any ghosts?
JR: Well, I’m much too practical to have ghost. And besides, I have four kids—if the ghosts are here, they’re probably hiding until the kids go off to college!

A Westport Scene Pretty as a Picture

Neighbors of Westport's Linda Gramatky Smith had fun this weekend sledding down the hill behind her Roseville Road home – just as she did when she was a youngster growing up there. Gramatky's father, the late Hardie Gramatky, an illustrator perhaps best known for his "Little Toot" children's books, captured his daughter and her friends on the same hill years ago. See photo below. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Linda Gramatky Smith for WestportNow.com

A Picture Pretty as Real Life

Hardie Gramatky's "Maple in Winter Snow" watercolor shows his daughter and her friends sledding on a hill behind their Roseville Road home. Gramatky, who died in 1979, created the "Little Toot" children's books for G. P. Putnam's Sons when he was an animator at Disney Studios in California. He was especially known for his watercolors. Linda Gramataky Smith has said of her father: "(His) idea was to play (his) palette like a pianist plays a keyboard: never conscious of reaching for color or tone, but getting the most subtle shades and harmony with the greatest of confidence." (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Courtesy of Linda Gramatky Smith

Westport Senior Center Honors Sue Pfister with "Sue's Cafe" Designation

Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell (r) surprised Sue Pfister, director of the Westport Center for Senior Activities, with an announcement today that the dining hall at the center is being named "Sue's Café" in her honor. Farrell spoke during celebrations marking the center's first anniversary. See more photos below. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo

Putting the New Name in Place

Sue Pfister (l), director of the Westport Center for Senior Activities, poses with Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell at the entrance to the newly-renamed "Sue's Café'" at the center during today's first anniversary celebrations. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Larry Untermeyer for WestportNow.com

Full House for Senior Center Anniversary Celebration

There was a full house today for celebrations marking the first anniversary of Westport's Center for Senior Activities. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo

Westporters Meet to Discuss Compo Playground Renovation

Several dozen Westporters met today to discuss renovating the playground at Compo Beach as a community project in 2006. The meeting at Westport Police Headquarters heard from Jim Bennett (c) one of the original organizers of a controversial 1989 effort to rebuild the playground. He said this time around things should be easier as no major land use permits are needed because the playground already exists. (See WestportNow Jan. 26, 2005) (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo

Farrell Asks School Officials to Explain Expanded Space Needs

Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell has asked school administrators to provide a detailed explanation of a request for the town to seek additional office space for school administrative needs.

In a Jan. 20 letter to Schools Supt. Elliott Landon, Farrell said she would not pass on a request to the town's Public Site and Building Commission to find more space until the schools have prepared a presentation showing that they have exhausted every available space in school buildings.

"Elliott, I am deeply concerned about the cost of this initiative," Farrell wrote.

"Coming on the heels of a 6.5 percent requested annual operating increase, and an additional capital request of $2.5 million for completion of Staples High School, expending funds for office space is an added burden to the taxpayer at a time when a great deal has been asked already in support of education."

She added: "As such, before contacting the Public Site and Building Commission, I request that you prepare a presentation that addresses your administrative needs, exhausting every available space in your school buildings. I understand your desire to centralize, but if adequate space exists on a less centralized basis, consideration should be given from a financial perspective."

Farrell, who was replying to a Jan. 20 letter asking her to forward the expanded space request to the Public Site and Building Commission, said a statement in Landon's letter that the town's space needs would also be increasing was in error.

"Speaking for the Town of Westport, we do not anticipate any expansion within the building in the future," she said.

(Editor's Note: The editor of WestportNow is also moderator of the Representative Town Meeting and, as such, received a copy of Farrell's letter earlier this month. However, publication of a WestportNow story on the letter was delayed until other news media first reported it, which The Hour of Norwalk did in today's edition.)

Only 49 Days Until Spring

Westport's Longshore Marina is frozen over Saturday from days of bitter cold. Only 49 days until spring. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com

Sunday, Jan. 30, 2005

1 p.m. - Westport Center for Senior Activities - One-year anniversary celebration
2 p.m. Wesport Police Headquarters - Meeting of 2005-2006 Compo Beach Playground Committee