May 07, 2005
Stewart Greenfield: Environmental Problems Plague Fairfield County
Westport's Stewart Greenfield tonight was honored by Earthplace, The Nature Discovery Center, as an "Outstanding Environmental Advocate." In accepting his award, he addressed environmental issues nationally and locally. Here is the text of his remarks:
Some years ago, I was invited to present an award to the fourth grade students at Kings Highway Elementary School, just down the street. They had collected money for the preservation of many acres of tropical rain forest land, as part of a school project.
Most of the kids had been involved with Earthplace, and between school and Earthplace had acquired an extraordinary level of knowledge about the environment.
I spent a delightful hour talking with them about rain forests, and then attended their Earth Day ceremony. One 10-year-old gave the keynote speech, which he delivered with conviction and great aplomb. I was deeply moved by his opening statement.
He said “We can not understand why our parent’s generation is trashing the planet we will inherit. They are blindly destroying many things that are very precious.”
Our world is faced with a myriad of environmental crises. Water resources are being depleted or poisoned with organic chemicals and arsenic. The air is laden with nitrous and sulphurous compounds and particulate matter.
Greenhouse gasses are causing climate change, and the debate is turning to how long it will be before the change becomes disastrous. Wildlife habitat is being destroyed and species exterminated.
Even Fairfield County has very high levels of air pollution, and is rated by the EPA as at major risk for high levels of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society Connecticut has the highest rate of breast cancer in the country, and is the second highest state for all cancers in women.
It is the ninth highest for all cancers in men. It is the third highest in NH lymphoma and urinary system cancers. Asthma cases in Fairfield county have doubled in the last 14 years, and now almost 10 percent of school children suffer from it (data from American Cancer Society).
Much of the problem comes from car and truck emissions. Fifteen years ago our government gutted its auto mileage standards, at the behest of the U.S. auto manufacturers. If the rules hadn’t been changed, we would be consuming 6 million barrels a day less fuel. That amount, by the way, is what we buy daily from the Persian Gulf States, at a cost of $100 billion a year.
At the original mpg target, pollution and global warming levels would be very much lower, and our balance of payments much better. Our economy would be stronger, gas would not cost $2.30 a gallon, and our country would not be faced with a risk of supply interruption.
The decision to exempt SUVs from mileage controls was one of the most damaging governmental actions of the 20th century. It was done to benefit the oil and auto industries.
I drive a hybrid car that averages about 50 miles per gallon. It has as much room as a Mercedes, and good pickup. It produces about one-tenth of the pollutants of some SUVs. Hybrid or high efficiency conventional engine vehicles should be the standard for all future personal vehicles. The incremental costs are modest, and the benefits to society are enormous.
Too few people are actively working to combat the environment crises. We need knowledgeable and dedicated people to take action to change the way we live.
I plead with all of you to support organizations that endeavor to protect our forests, rivers, and the atmosphere, and that educate our children to be better stewards than our generation has been.
I also beg that you let our politicians know how strongly concerned you are about the horrendous levels of cancer, heart problems, and other diseases. Make your voices be heard in Washington and Hartford, and press for action on global warming.
Puppy Love on Jesup Green
Westport's Jesup Green was the setting today for the seventh annual "Dachshund Reunion" sponsored by Dachshund Rescue. Showing off their pets were (l-r) Grace Demassa of Trumbull with Roger McGregor; Agnes Modugno of Stamford with Jake and Julie; and Kate Muchnick of Westport with Lilly Larkin. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Music to Their Ears
Musicians from the brass section of the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra demonstrated their instruments today for children and their parents at the Westport Public Library. These youngsters had a closeup view. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
"Winning" at Westport's Barnes & Noble
Former General Electric Chairman and CEO Jack Welch, accompanied by his wife and co-author, Suzy, signs a copy of their book "Winning" for customers today at Westport's Barnes & Noble. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Stocking Up for the Food Pantry
Dave Parise (l) and Alan Stolz check out the donations at today's Westport Kiwanis Club and Staples Key Club food drive at Shaw's Supermarket on Post Road East. The goods will go to the Interfaith Housing Association food pantry. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
A 3-D View
Katie Petersen, a student at Westport's Coleytown Elementary School, looks at the 3-D effect of some of the works on display during Friday night's Town Hall opening night reception for the Town-Wide School Art Show. That's Katie's painting of a mermaid over her left shoulder.(CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Student Art Works on Display
Some Westport students view the works on display at Westport Town Hall during Friday night's opening night reception for the Town-Wide School Art Show. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Connecticut Humane Society Seeks Foster Care Volunteers
The Connecticut Humane Society is seeking foster care volunteers to temporarily care for Society animals in their home until they are old enough or well enough for permanent placement.
Volunteers must be 18 years or older. There will be home visits by staff member. To schedule an appointment, call (203) 227-4137 or stop by the shelter at 455 Post Road East, Westport.
Westporter Tries Again With Entry in Today's Kentucky Derby
Westport's Robert LaPenta faces double-digit odds for his horse in today's $2 million Kentucky Derby, the second year in a row he's had an entry in the nation's most famous horse race.
The 59-year-old LaPenta will be sending out longshot Andromeda's Hero. A year ago his entry was The Cliff's Edge who had credentials so impeccable that he was designated the morning-line favorite for the first leg of the Triple Crown.
But a torrential downpour hours before the 2004 race did the horse in. The Cliff's Edge lost both of his front shoes on the muddy track and could do no better than finish a distant fifth.
LaPenta, who recently retired as president and CFO of L-3 Communications and now heads L-1, an investment partnership based in Stamford, told The Advocate of Stamford that last year, the pressure was enormous.
"But this year we're going with a completely different perspective," he said. "We're just looking for a respectable effort and we'll see what it gets us. It's going to be a lot more fun for us."
Friends of Hall-Brooke Host Art Show and Sale
The Friends of Hall-Brooke held a preview reception Friday night for The 3rd Annual Mother's Day Weekend Art Show & Sale. Phil and Alice Katz of Fairfield view some of the exhibits. The event, featuring 13 area artists, continues today from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a "Meet the Artists Reception" and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. with a special Mother's Day showing at Westport's Hall-Brook Behavioral Health Services, 47 Long Lots Road. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Stephen Rubin for WestportNow.com
Paul Newman Tries Go-Kart Racing
Westport's Paul Newman was in Chicago Friday night and took the opportunity to jump in a go-kart to race wheel-to-wheel at 35 m.p.h. against his friend and longtime stunt double, Stan Barrett.
The 80-year-old Oscar-winning actor appeared at Chicago Indoor Racing for a private event staged by McDonald's, a major sponsor of the Newman-Haas racing team.
Newman said he caught racing fever after filming "Winning" in 1968, and hasn't looked back since claiming his first national title in 1976.
Racing a go-kart is not that different from racing a car, he told the Chicago Tribune. "The smoother you are, the quicker you go. You can't muscle your way around the track in these cars."
Newman is enamored enough of go-karts that he said racing them should be mandatory for all high school students.
"It's a wonderful way to get some sense of changing direction and braking," he said.
Mike Roberts, McDonald's president and chief operating officer, said the fast-food firm first teamed up with the actor over his salad dressings and then asked what else they might do together. Sponsor our race cars, Newman told Roberts.
"It's been a major investment and it's been a great investment," Roberts said.
Saturday, May 7, 2005
10 a.m. - Shaw's Supermarket, 605 Post Road East - Westport Kiwanis Club and Staples Key Club food drive
1 p.m. - Westport Library McManus Room - Musicians from the brass section of the Norwalk Symphony demonstrate their instruments in an interactive session for children and their parents
1 p.m. - Jesup Green - Seventh annual Dachshund Reunion sponsored by Dachshund Rescue
5 p.m. - Hall-Brooke Behavioral Health Services, 47 Long Lots Road - Friends of Hall-Brooke "Meet the Artists Gala Reception" for The 3rd Annual Mother's Day Weekend Art Show & Sale
6:30 p.m. - Earthplace, The Nature Discovery Center, 10 Woodside Lane - "Dancin' in the Woods" 21st annual dinner auction
8 p.m. - Greens Farms School - Westport Arts Center Folk Series presents singer-songwriter Ellis Paul with Dee Carstensen
May 06, 2005
Probate Judge Speaks at Senior Center
Westport Probate Court Judge Kevin O'Grady addressed abouit 80 persons today at the Westport Center for Senior Activities on the topic of living wills and the appointment of a health care agent. Larry Untermeyer for WestportNow.com
Going Down: 8 Reimer Road
A house at 8 Reimer Road, off of North Avenue, came down today. Featured as the WestportNow teardown on April 20, 2005, it sold in March for $1 million. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
Staples Student Addresses Sunrise Rotary on Autism
Staples High School student Michelle Levine spoke to today's Westport Sunrise Rotary Club meeting about autism and autistic children. Michelle, who has done extensive research with autism at Yale University and intends to make its study her career choice, was presented with a book by Leo Cirino, club president, following her talk. The book, inscribed with Michelle's name, will be donated to the Westport Public Library. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo
Dodd and Shays to Reintroduce Telecommuter Tax Fairness Act
Sen. Christopher Dodd and Rep. Christopher Shays today announced their intention to reintroduce legislation aimed at preventing Connecticut and telecommuters nationwide from unfair double taxation.
The immediate aim of the the measure, announced at a Stamford news conference, is to prevent New York State from levying taxes on Connecticut telecommuters for work they perform in Connecticut.
They introduced similar legislation in 2004 that died in committee, because of a lack of support. The new bills face the same hurdles. Shays and Dodd did not say when they would introduce the bills.
"Connecticut workers help drive our economic growth. They shouldn't have to pay an unfair 'toll' tax simply because they work from home," said Dodd. "Telecommuters in our state play a big part in our economy and they shouldn't be penalized for their work."
He said the bill would help shield and protect them from unfair and unwarranted taxes and ensure that they can reap the benefits of telecommuting.
"This bill is about fairness," said Shays. "It is simply unfair to tax Connecticut telecommuters twice. We are promoting a policy that will help bring taxation in line with current realities of technology and promote telecommuting, which can improve gridlock and reduce environmental harm."
Currently, New York State requires telecommuters to pay income tax on 100 percent of their earnings regardless of where they work as long as their company is based in New York.
Employees who work part-time from home in Connecticut must pay income taxes to New York for work performed in Connecticut, while at the same time being obligated to pay taxes to Connecticut for that work.
The result is that many Connecticut workers are taxed twice on income earned while telecommuting - once by Connecticut, and again by New York. This threat of double taxation can serve as a powerful disincentive for people to telecommute, according to the legislators.
Dodd and Shays' initiative will prevent states like New York from collecting taxes from employees for work performed outside that state. Employees would have to be physically present and working in the state for a state to be authorized to collect income tax from the employee.
Telecommunication advancements of the 21st Century offer greater flexibility to workers without compromising productivity, ultimately benefiting the economy, accoding to the legislators.
They said telecommuters provide valuable, cost efficient options for many businesses, families, and communities. Workers can be more involved at home with their families by avoiding a daily commute.
Communities benefit by less congested roads, rails, and sidewalks, and the reduction of air-pollution caused by heavy volumes of traditional commuters, according to the lawmakers.
Brisk Business at Garden Club Plant Sale
The Westport Garden Club held its annual plant sale today in front of the Saugatuck Congregational Church. Despite overcast skies and a chilly wind, sales were brisk. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Bill Balch for WestportNow.com
A Westport Love Story
It was a second marriage this week for Dorothy and George Robertshaw – to each other. The Westport residents originally married 24 years ago and divorced some years later after having a family. But love conquers all and they got back together again and lived together for the last 16 years. But they did not remarry again until Tuesday at Westport's Burying Hill Beach with Justice of the Peace Stephen M. Rubin officiating. Also attending were children Michael, Mary and Amy. Even with the divorce, Dorothy Robertshaw said they were never apart for more then three weeks since the original wedding date. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Toni Rubin (who was also flower girl) for WestportNow.com
Lady Wreckers Class of 2017
These Westport kindergarteners, seen practicing Thursday, could become the Lady Wreckers of the Class of 2017. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Sean Timmins for WestportNow.com
Friday, May 6, 2005
9 a.m. - Saugatuck Congregational Church - Westport Garden Club annual plant sale
6 p.m. - Westport Town Hall Lobby - Town-Wide School Art Show opening night reception
May 05, 2005
"A Taste of Westport" Draws Crowd
CLASP Homes' "A Taste of Westport" fund-raiser attracted a large crowd tonight to the Westport Inn. In addition to tasting a selection of food and drinks from Westport and area restaurants and vendors, guests bid on an extensive inventory of auction items, all to the benefit of the Westport-based charity which serves adults with developmental disabilities.(CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
First Taster
Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell was among those tasting the food at CLASP Homes' "A Taste of Westport" fund-raiser tonight at the Westport Inn. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
Police Were Searching for Gun in Westport Suicide
Westport Police were searching for a gun when they went to the home of a Red Coat Road man who fatally shot himself in the head Monday when they knocked at the door, a police official said today (See WestportNow May 2, 2005)
Lt. Gary Golas said police had developed information that Aran Bruce Cole, 52, a convicted felon, was in possession of a firearm. He said it was illegal for him to have a weapon and they were planning to search for it.
Police would not disclose what crime Cole had been convicted of.
An autopsy conducted by the state's medical examiner office confirmed that Cole committed suicide.
Getting Set for Friday Plant Sale
Members of the Westport Garden Club prepared today for their annual plant sale Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Saugatuck Congregational Church. Annuals, perennials and flowering shrubs will be for sale, as well as gardening tools and accessories. Proceeds from the sale are donated to a variety of organizations, including Staples High School and the Westport Historical Society.The sale has been held since the mid-1960s on the lawn of Saugatuck Congregational Church, according to Louise Demakis, club president. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com
Shadows
Early morning along Westport's Saugatuck River this week. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Miggs Burroughs for WestportNow.com
Wanted: Staples Class of 1963 Members Marking Their 60th Birthdays
The infants of 1945 – also known as Staples seniors of 1963 -- are all celebrating their 60th birthdays this year and to mark the occasion, members will gather in Westport next month for a party.
The event, which one member called a "welcome to geezerhood" party, will take place on Saturday, June 25 at Compo Beach from about 2 p.m. "until they throw us off the beach," according to organizers.
They ask those who would like to join the festivities or need more information to send an e-mail to staples63@earthlink.net.
Christopher Plummer to Give Encore Performance
The Westport Country Playhouse has announced that it has scheduled an encore performance of its 75th Anniversary Season Re-opening Gala starring Christopher Plummer.
The Sunday, June 5, 5 p.m. event was scheduled after the Friday, June 3, 6:30 p.m. performance of his one-man show became a sell-out, an announcement said.
Written, arranged and performed by Plummer, “A Word or Two, Before You Go” will be the inaugural public production in the newly renovated theatre following an 18-month, $17.3 million renovation and expansion.
Tickets for the encore performance are $75; student/youth seats (age 25 and under) are $25.
“A Word of Two, Before You Go” is a prelude to the four-play summer series beginning June 16 under the artistic direction of Joanne Woodward.
Non-subscription tickets for individual plays in the summer season will go on sale on May 23 at 10 a.m. following a special ribbon-cutting ceremony.
For information about the 75th Anniversary Season, visit www.westportplayhouse.org. For tickets to the encore performance by Christopher Plummer, call (203) 227.5137 ext. 38.
Donor Gives $75,000 to Westport for Defibrillators
An anonymous donor has given the Town of Westport $75,000 to purchase new automated external defibrillators, Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell announced Wednesday.
The town, along with the Westport Downtown Merchants Association and the Westport Chamber of Commerce, had launched a fund-raising drive April 1 to replace the current AEDs in police cars, a police boat, fire vehicles, ambulances, and at various locations around town.
Farrell said the donation will enable the town to purchase 30 to 40 units. She said the goal of the fund-raising drive is "in excess of $84,000" to replace existing units. The new units for the first time will be able to be used on children.
The Board of Selectmen will formally accept the contribution at its May 11 meeting. The matter will then go before the Representative Town Meeting. Farrell said citizens and/or businesses wishing to contribute to the fund-raising drive should contact Deputy Chief David Heinmiller at (203) 341-6026.
Today's Westport Teardown: 7 Webb Road
Today's WestportNow teardown is 7 Webb Road off of Whitney Street. The Historic District Commission will review the demolition application at its May 10 meeting. The house was built in 1940. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
Thursday, May 5, 2005
6 p.m. - Westport Inn, 1595 Post Road East -- CLASP Homes presents "A Taste of Westport"
7:30 p.m. - Town Hall Auditorium - Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing
May 04, 2005
The Ballet and "Don Quixote"
The Westport Public Library had a good turnout tonight for its second of a four-lecture series to honor the 400th anniversary of Cervantes' novel "Don Quixote." Award-winning dancer and choreographer Felice Lesser showed clips and talked about how "Don Quixote" has been interpreted for the ballet. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
Spring Cleaning
The Doughboy statue on Westport's Veterans Green got a sprucing up today from Francis Miller, a sculpture conservator. He also will work on the Minuteman statute at Compo Beach. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Ron Malone for WestportNow.com
All Gone: 222 Riverside Ave.
An 1880s house at 222 Riverside Ave. came down today. It was the WestportNow teardown of the day on Dec. 14, 2004. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
Winslow Scene
The sun finally shone late Tuesday afternoon at Westport's Winslow Park. A dog walker stopped to enjoy the sunlight playing through the spring’s new maple leaves. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com
Columbia U. Prof Completes Westport Study of Adolescent Behavior
By Emily Laux
WestportNow Contributing Editor
A Columbia University professor Tuesday night completed her landmark six-year study of Westport adolescents. Among her findings – “family closeness” and family parenting styles are two of the most significant predictors of risky behavior in adolescents who live in affluent communities. 
Suniya Luthar: Westport study completed after six years. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com
Addressing parents at Westport's Toquet Hall, Dr. Suniya S. Luthar, professor of psychology and education, said: “Nothing is more humbling than being the parent of a teenager.”
Luthar's study has tracked the behavior of 300 students in this year’s Staples High School graduating class since the sixth grade. She noted that the study started with a 97 percent participation rate six years ago, and has concluded with an 87 percent participation rate this year.
Her opening comments were a reference to two of the study’s most significant findings: that “family closeness” and family parenting styles are two of the most significant predictors of risky behavior in adolescents who live in affluent communities.
Adolescents who believe their parents are “too critical” are at a high risk for substance use and depression, she said.
Another finding that Luthar called “worrisome” is the rapidly increasing levels of substance use seen among girls as they move from middle school into high school.
However, during the middle and high school years, girls who are close to their fathers have higher grades, are less self-conscious about their appearance, and are less likely to engage in risky behavior, Luthar said.
While describing individual risk predictors -- for instance, boys with permissive parents are at much higher risk for substance use -- Luthar emphasized that “there are a combination of factors for risky behaviors” that exist in cultures of affluence.
“It’s not just in Westport,” Luthar added. “It’s in affluent suburbs across the country. Westport is significant because this study has set in motion a series of other studies that have revealed this phenomena of substance use.”
Luthar also reinforced one of her most significant findings from past years: that there is no correlation between “overscheduled” kids and levels of substance use, anxiety or depression.
“Overwhelmingly, kids who are engaged in extracurricular activities say they do it “'because it is fun’ not ‘because my parents want me to or because it’s good for my future,’” said Luthar.
Luthar concluded her remarks with an invitation to parents to continue the study in some way.
Westport Property Transfers April 25-29, 2005
Property transfers as reported by the Westport Town Clerk's office for the period April 25-29, 2005:
Barbara S. Pinto to Dustin Ranciato, 6 West End Ave., $518,000
Peter A. and Caren L. Lorraine to Sandra and Rigoberto Cordero, 71 Clinton Ave., $750,000
John T. and Carter Crawford Conley to Carlos and Vilma Magan, 361 Main St.. $565,000
Boris Kostelanetz to James Howes and Justin Paul, 21 Woods Grove Road, $700,000
63 West Parish Road LLC to Jessie M. Chapman, 63 West Parish Road, $715,000
Neil Goldstein and Jennifer Purtan-Goldstein to Ahmed Namoury, 19 Greenbrier Road, $2,050,000
John Cooper and Rosamond A. Koether to Evan S. Perkins, 30 Easton Road, $1,050,000
Joy Kony Peshkin to 46 Riverside Associated LLC, 46 Riverside Ave., $850,000
James and Rebecca Burton to Mark C. Burton, 26 Highland Road, $625,000
Rona Jaffe to S and V Sturges Common LLC, 25 Sturges Commons, $1,050,000
Elsa Sapien to Lovin and Anisha Thomas, 4 Twin Oaks Lane, $758,550
Michael and Lauri Friedland to Mari Inagami, 9 Bluewater Hill, $2,900,000
Lauren Ives Ward to Charles M. and Joan A. Friezo, 4 Bradley Street, $1,787,500
Wednesday, May 4, 2005
7:30 a.m. - Town Hall Room 309/307 - TEAM Westport Committee
10:30 a.m. - Town Hall Room 102 - International Hospitality Committee
4 p.m. - Town Hall Room 201 - Beautification Committee
7:30 p.m. - Town Hall Room 201 - Flood and Erosion Control Board
May 03, 2005
RTM Rejects Two Attempts to Cut Education Budget
The Westport Representative Town Meeting (RTM) tonight rejected two attempts to cut the $79.5 million education budget and then passed a combined education-town budget of $143.5 million.
The proposals, one to reduce the 2005-06 education budget by $300,000 and then $100,000, failed by votes of 27-7 and 28-5 (1 abstention).
Richard Lowenstein, District 5, made both motions. He said the reductions were symbolic but could be easily absorbed by the district without affecting educational quality.
The Board of Finance had originally reduced the budget by $600,000 but restored $300,000 at its meeting last month.
(Editor's note: the Moderator of the RTM is also editor/publisher of WestportNow.com.)
Man Commits Suicide as Westport Police Attempt to Serve Warrant
A man shot and killed himself today as Westport Police sought to serve a search and seizure warrant, a police spokesman said.
Crime scene: Police tape blocks off 16 Red Coat Road. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
The man, later identified by State Police as Aran Bruce Cole, 52, mortally wounded himself with a single shot to the head at an apartment at 16 Red Coat Road, said police spokesman Jerry Shannon. He was declared dead on arrival at Norwalk Hospital.
A warrant was obtained to search the apartment rented by Cole, who was facing charges in Norwalk of threatening his former girlfriend. Police later said they were searching for a gun they believed he had.
Shannon said detectives, backed up by members of the department's tactical team, knocked on the door of the apartment at about 10:15 a.m. to serve a search and seizure warrant.
The police, who had obtained a key to the apartment, knocked three or four times, shouted out the man's name, and got no reply, he said. They then heard a single shot and upon entering found the wounded man.
There was no exchange of gunfire with police, he said, and only one shot was fired. An EMS unit that was on standby at the scene transported the wounded man to the hospital. No one else was in the apartment.
The Advocate of Stamford reported that Westport police had obtained the search warrant on Monday from state Superior Court in Norwalk.
Police initially would not disclose what they were searching for. But later they said they had developed information he was in possession of a gun. They said he was prohibited from having a firearm as he was a convicted felon.
On April 18, Norwalk police charged Cole with two counts of second-degree threatening in a case involving a former girlfriend. The case was referred to the Family Relations division in the Norwalk court, which generally attempts to resolve the issues between parties and can recommend dropping the charges, The Advocate said. He was scheduled to appear in court on June 21.
Cole's attorney, Mark Carron of Westport, said he expected the charges against Cole to be resolved.
The house, with three mailboxes at the end of the driveway, was blocked off by yellow police tape. It is located is in a quiet residential area of northwest Westport not far from exit 41 of the Merritt Parkway.
Police Chief Alfred R. Fiore and Deputy Chief David Heinmiller were on the scene along with Lt. Gary Golas. The State Police Western District major crime unit and members of the state's attorneys office were also there.
A State Police spokesman said the state's medical examiner would conduct an autopsy. The results of the investigation announced later showed he had committed suicide.
The State Police were involved in the investigation to ensure that proper procedures were used by Westport Police during the incident, according to a police source.
No Entry
Police tape blocks off the driveway to 16 Red Coat Road in Westport today where detectives were investigating a fatal shooting incident. Police spokesman Jerry Shannon said police tried to serve a search and seizure warrant at the home, then heard a gunshot and found a man with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head inside. He said no gunfire was exchanged with police and the man was taken to Norwalk Hospital by Westport EMS where he was pronounced dead. Police did not say why they initially went to the house. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Misty Morning
A misty morning today along the Saugatuck River near Westport's center.(CLICK TO ENLARGE) Miggs Burroughs for WestportNow.com
Kung Fun Soccer
Following a week of wet weather and April vacation, Westport soccer, lacrosse and baseball players finally got back on the fields Sunday for games. At Coleytown Middle School field, Luke Clerkin, a midfielder for Westport’s Hurricane League team, astonished his opponent, Harry Nicklin of the Penguins, with his Kung Fu offensive move. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com
Tuesday, May 3, 2005
10 a.m. - Town Hall Room 201 - Administrative Review Committee
7 p.m. - Town Hall Room 309 - Shellfish Commission
7:30 p.m. - Town Hall Auditorium - Representative Town Meeting annual budget session, second of two nights; live coverage on cable channel 79
May 02, 2005
Westport RTM Approves $50 Million Non-Education Expenditures
The Westport Representative Town Meeting (RTM) tonight approved $50 million in expenditures for the town's 2005-06 budget. The figure does not include $93 million in education costs to be considered by the body at its Tuesday meeting.
The RTM made no changes in the budget as recommended by First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell and the Board of Finance. The amount represents an approximate 3.9 percent increase over the current year.
(Editor's note: The Moderator of the RTM is editor/publisher of WestportNow.com.)
Save the Children Releases Annual Mother's Day Report
Westport's Save the Children said today that a lack of access to schooling for 58 million girls in developing countries has a major impact on public health, overpopulation and economic growth.
About 103 million children of primary school age are not in school, but the importance of eliminating barriers to girls to attend school cannot be overstated, said the charity in its report, "State of the World's Mothers 2005."
The group releases its report annually in time for Mother's Day, which is Sunday.
"Girls' education is the key to changing the course of a nation," said Charles MacCormack, president and chief executive of Save the Children.
Chloe O'Gara, director of education for Save the Children, said girls' school attendance improves their chances of breaking the cycle of poverty and becoming mothers who raise healthier children and sending their own children - boys and girls - to school.
"Educated women access prenatal care more effectively, use contraceptives, have smaller families, space their children and educate their own children," she said. "It's why girls' education is the best single investment a country can make."
For example, the children of uneducated mothers are more than twice as likely to die or be malnourished than children of mothers who have secondary or higher education, the report says.
The report, which is part of a series of annual studies by Save the Children focusing on development issues, urged the Bush administration and Congress to double federal funding for basic education in developing countries to $800 million in the budget year that begins Oct. 1.
Money and other resources are not the only factors that determine whether girls have access to school, the report said.
"Political will and strategic investment lead to gender equity and girls' education," O'Gara said.
Kenya, for example, which is a poorer nation than Saudi Arabia in per capita gross domestic product, surpasses the oil-rich nation by 22 percent in the percentage of girls of primary school age in school, Save the Children said.
Poverty and discrimination are "huge barriers" to girls' education in many parts of the world, the report said. In addition, distances to school are often considered too great to allow girls to travel safely and cultural norms and religious beliefs may hinder girls' access to education, the group said.
Among the group's recommendations are to abolish school fees and other costs; improve the quality of education to keep girls in school at the primary level; promote alternative schooling for girls affected by AIDS, conflicts and natural disasters; and expand girls' secondary school opportunities.
Carol Bellamy, the former executive director of UNICEF, said the United Nations' agency has helped lead efforts to close the gender gap in education in the past five or six years.
"There has been a coming together of international agencies, the World Bank, UNICEF and others," she said. "I actually think there's much more public attention to it."
In a ranking of progress among 71 developing countries, Save the Children said Bolivia, Kenya and Cameroon made the greatest gains in improving access to education for girls between 1990 and 2000. Malawi, Iraq and Rwanda fared the worst due to conflict, AIDS and rapid population growth.
Taking it to the Street
Opponents of relocating the Westport-Weston YMCA to Camp Mahackeno have launched a sign campaign that categorizes the proposed move as "sprawl," and asks that the Y remain "central and accessible." This sign went up this morning on the corner of Wilton Road and River Lane near the camp. Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
Lowenstein Expects School Budget Brawl
By James Lomuscio
WestportNow Special Correspondent
Usually it's Westport's Board of Finance that trims proposed school budgets, not the Representative Town Meeting (RTM). In fact, historically the RTM has restored some of the cuts to Board of Education budgets when they are finalized.
But Tuesday night at 7:30, Richard A. Lowenstein plans to ask the RTM to break with tradition and start wielding its own ax. The District 5 representative wants to trim $300,000 from the school board's proposed $79.5 million 2005-2006 budget. It's the same $300,000 that the Board of Finance restored April 13 after rethinking its $600,000 cut in March.
Educators say Lowenstein's request will severely hurt programs, education and ultimately the town's quality of life. Lowenstein says his proposed cut is minimal and that the RTM has to lake the lead somewhere in containing ever-escalating spending that puts a strain on taxpayers.
"This is going to be a donnybrook," said Lowenstein, noting that Schools Superintendent Elliot Landon has been galvanizing teacher and parent opposition. "What I'm going to say is not going to be that long, but the responses to it will be. I just hope the reaction is civilized."
He pointed out that $600,000 represents only a .0075 percent reduction in the proposed school budget, the equivalent of cutting only $300 from an annual salary of $40,000 or $938 from a $125,000 yearly income.
"I cannot accept the assumption that the quality of education is dependent on what to many people is nothing more than a rounding error on a $79 million budget," he said.
So far, Lowenstein says he has gotten a mixed reaction from the RTM members he has spoken to about the proposed cut.
(Editor's note: The Moderator of the RTM, Gordon Joseloff, is also editor/publisher of WestportNow.com.)
Hunt Club Spring
After nearly a week of wet, chilly weather, Sunday was finally dry enough for a rider and her horse to practice jumps at Westport’s Fairfield County Hunt Club. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com
Monday, May 2, 2005
7:15 p.m. - Bedford Middle School, Room 130 - Board of Education anticipated executive session
7:30 p.m. - Town Hall Room 201/201A - Golf Advisory Committee
7:30 p.m. - Town Hall Auditorium - Representative Town Meeting annual budget session, first of two nights; live coverage on cable channel 79
8 p.m. - Bedford Middle School Cafeteria - Board of Education
May 01, 2005
Celebrating Cervantes
The Westport Public Library today launched the first of four lectures to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the publication of "Don Quixote." The series explores the influence of Cervantes' major work and the sensibilities of the Spanish people in that era. Prof. Angeles N. Dam, a native of Spain with a Ph.D in literature from the Universidad de Granada, spoke to about 100 people in the McManus Room about Cervantes' desires, aspirations and deep appreciation for the Spanish culture that inspired the book. Another Cervantes lecture, "Don Quixote in Ballet" by Felice Lesser, will be held Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., also in the McManus Room. Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
March of Dimes Fund-Raiser Attracts Superhero
Spiderman was among those on hand today helping support the March of Dimes WalkAmerica fund-raising event at Westport's Sherwood Island State Park. Contributed photo
Cold and Wet, They Ran Anyway
John Cunningham, 39, won Westport's annual Minute Man race at Compo Beach today with an unofficial time of 16:30. Pascale Butcher of Southport (not shown), 43, won in the female division with an unofficial time of 20:01. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Stephen M. Rubin for WestportNow.com
Many flooded the finish line as today's 27th annual Wetport Minute Man race came to an end in drizzly weather. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Stephen M. Rubin for WestportNow.com
Despite Gloomy Weather, Kids Scamper to the Finish Line
In one of the preliminary races at today's 27th annual Minute Man Race, 5-to-12 years olds ran the One Mile Scamper at Compo Beach despite the pouring rain. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
There was no lack of enthusiasm as the kid’s race got underway. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Stephen M. Rubin for WestportNow.com
NY Times Features "Twilight Zone" Westport Episode
Today’s New York Time’s Connecticut section features a front page story about one-time Westport resident Rod Serling, creator of the television series “Twilight Zone,” and one of the show’s most famous episodes, “A Stop at Willoughby.” 
Rod Serling: Westport episode is among most popular. twilightzone.org photo
Serling lived in Westport in the late 1950s, and the episode, about an unhappy advertising executive commuting between Manhattan and Westport, is thought to have been inspired by his friends and neighbors who commuted on the New Haven line. “A Stop at Willoughby” marks its 45th anniversary this Friday.
Referring to Serling’s widow, Carol, the newspaper's Commuter’s Journal column said:
“She has fond memories of Westport, where the Serling family lived near the shore before moving inland to Long Lots Road. Eventually, the family relocated to the West Coast.
”I went back to Westport 8 or 10 years ago,” she said. “I’d forgotten how beautiful it was. We never would have left if it weren’t for the business.”
Serling, who died in 1975, is recognized as one of television’s most creative and prolific writers. He was awarded six Emmys for his writing. "The Twilight Zone" was broadcast on CBS from 1959 to 1964.
Wolf on the Runway
Atka, an Arctic wolf accompanied by a Wolf Conservation Center worker, parades before Westporters Carl and Andrea Sherman during Saturday's Earth Day Festival at Earthplace, The Nature Discovery Center. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Julia Mally for WestportNow.com
Tiffany & Co. Donates Westport Film Festival Award
Westport Youth Film Festival Organizers David Burstein, Chris Casey, and Suzanne Spignesi joined Tiffany's Westport store manager William McGuinness to put the 2005 Audience Choice Award on display. The award was donated to the festival by Tiffany & Co. and will be bestowed at the 2005 Festival on May 14. The film with the highest number of audience votes will be awarded the hand-engraved crystal at an awards ceremony at 7:30 p.m. in the Fairfield Community Theater. The second annual Westport Youth Film Festival will be held at the theater from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information and to buy tickets visit the festival Web site or call (203) 454-2222. Contributed photo
Today's Minute Man Race Draws Mix of Entrants
When hundreds of runners line up for today's 27th annual Minute Man Race at Compo Beach sponsored by the Westport Young Woman's League (WYWL) they will cover a 5-kilometer course for many reasons.
More and more people are lacing up their shoes not to win medals but just for the fun of it. The idea of exercising while raising money for a worthy cause appeals to both athletes and amateurs alike.
Entrants in the Minute Man Race include a mix of youthful talent and competitors in the older ranks. Westport resident Miggs Burroughs has run the race for the past 22 years. Burroughs also serves as a judge for the race's art contest.
"Running a well organized race like the Minute Man year after year not only serves as an annual benchmark in my quest to keep a few steps ahead of the grim reaper, but it is one of the first opportunities of the year to shake off the chill of winter and reconvene with fellow runners and friends who I haven't seen all year," said Burroughs.
"The beach is always a wonderful place to be and the sense of community at the race, fostered by the WYWL, is very contagious."
Known as a family fitness event, even the youngest runners will also have an opportunity to participate in several races. For children 5 and under, there's a 100-yard dash, and for children over 5, the scamper runs within Compo Beach have two heats -- half-mile and one-mile distances.
Every child crossing the finish line will receive a special ribbon.
"We want children to get excited about participating in this event so that they may feel that incredible sense of pride in themselves when they meet their goal," said Karen Scott, co-chairperson of the event. "We also want to encourage them to continue a quest to achieve a lifetime of fitness goals."
"I used to run in the scamper but last year I wanted to try something harder," said Katie Heller, age 11. "Last year, I started the race with my dad and my aunt. I was tired but I finished the race in 37 minutes. This year, I'm looking forward to running the race with my friends."
No matter what their motivations or abilities, runners set their sights on the Minute Man Race because of its reputation as one of the best social and community-service activities.
The race's beautiful point-to-point course winding along Compo Beach, through immediate neighborhoods and Longshore Park has not changed in the race's 27-year history.
"As a runner, the Minute Man Race is a special local tradition for me," said Michele Albano, Minute Man Race chairman.
"Growing up in Westport, I both ran and attended the race often. Being the event chair and raising money for local charities has been a rewarding experience. I raise money for charity by marathon running so coordinating this event has added another way to give back to the community."
For those who choose to watch the action, there are a number of entertainment options. Attendees can enjoy some food and refreshments while listening to a live broadcast from 95.9 Fox. "The Balloon Guy" will be on site to provide balloon magic for the kids.
Every runner participating in the events has an opportunity to enter in the drawing, in which several prizes will be given away. Prizes include a bicycle from Cycle Dynamics, two round-trip tickets anywhere Jet Blue Airlines flies, children's prizes from Age of Reason, a one-year adult membership to the Westport/Weston YMCA, three private personal training sessions with Brian Burtula and gift certificates from Newman's Own and Westport Pizza among others
As with all league activities, proceeds from the race are donated to local charitable organizations. Last year, the event raised $26,000 which was only part of the $190,000 that the league donated to regional charities and community organizations. Corporate sponsors are a major source of those revenues.
This year, many local organizations have generously supported the race. Donors include Volvo of Westport, MLB.com, Birinyi, Turner Construction, My Gym, Bay Street Pediatrics, Northwest Mutual, Danskin, Westport Pizzeria, Institute of Culinary Education, Jeff Bousquet Painting, Castle Wine, Athletic Shoe Factory, Villa Del Sol, MJB Real Estate, Bluefish Baseball, The Fitness Edge and others.
Participants may register starting at 7:15 a.m. at Compo Beach. For more information, call 222-1388 or visit www.wywl.com.
Two Off-Duty Westport Firefighters Credited With Saving Crash Victim
Two off-duty Westport firefighters are being credited with saving the life of a young man in Hamden.
Westport firefighters Jeff Gootman and Brian Meadows were traveling together on Wilbur Cross Parkway Friday when the driver ahead of them lost control of his vehicle, WTNH-TV reported.
Gootman and Meadows pulled the 19-year-old driver from the wreckage just before the car burst into flames.
The victim was treated at Yale-New Haven hospital but officials say his injuries would have been much worse, or even fatal, without the firefighters quick actions.
Chance Encounter in France
A wedding outside Paris Saturday was the setting for a chance encounter between Westport resident Jessica Bram (l) and former Westport residents – now living in Ireland – Mario and Frances Vecchi. The Vecchis lived in Westport from 1995 to 1998 and said they have fond memories of the town and miss the friends they made here. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Sunday, May 1, 2005
8:45 a.m. - Compo Beach - The Westport Young Woman's League presents the 27th Annual Minute Man Race
10 a.m. - Sherwood Island State Park - March of Dimes WalkAmerica
