May 28, 2005
Full Sail for the 45th Season
John Kantor, who founded the Longshore Sailing School, was at the helm of his enterprise today where instructors and students alike hoped the sunny weather would hold out the entire Memorial Day weekend. The alma mater of countless Westport boaters, Longshore Sailing School this year marks its 45th season. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) James Lomuscio for WestportNow.com
Spruced Up
The intersection of Westport's Post Road East and the Sherwood Island Connector has a new look, thanks to local contractor Kowalsky Bros. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Ron Malone for WestportNow.com
Today's Westport Teardown: 8 Fernwood Road
Today's WestportNow teardown is 8 Fernwood Road off Whitney Street. The owner of the house, built in 1948, will rebuild on the site. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
Seabury Schedules Westporter's Musical for Sunday
Justin Paul: Wanted to share his work with his hometown. Contriibuted photoA musical revue, "Edges," co-written by Westporter Justin Paul is scheduled to be produced by Music Theater of Connecticut on Sunday at The Seabury Center at 45 Church Lane.
"My first attempt at writing for musical theater was for the MTC adaptation of 'Pinocchio' when I was in ninth grade," said Paul, an MTC alumnus.
"It's certainly been a few years since then, so it's really neat to come back to MTC with some brand new material now that I have had the chance to hone some of my skills."
"Edges," set to run from 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., is a musical theater song cycle that tracks four distinct characters who feel stifled by a world in which they are not challenged to truly know themselves.
According to Paul, a "song cycle" is a collection of songs that are connected through themes and overall concepts, but are not part of a show with a script.
A Staples High School graduate, Paul is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theater the University of Michigan, where "Edges" was first produced. Paul co-wrote the music with Benj Pasek, also a Michigan student.
"We're taking this show to several large cities, but I wanted to bring it to my hometown and get a chance to share my work with the people who have supported me for my whole life," said Paul.
Tickets for "Edges" are $10 students, $15 adults. For further information, visit www.musictheatreofct.com, or call the box office at (203)454-3883.
Island Dreams
Set amidst a backdrop of, finally, blue skies, Westport's Cockenoe Island looked like an island paradise just one mile from the shore Friday. Facing it, these two beachgoers seemed lucky to beat the holiday rush as Memorial Day traffic began to fill Westport. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) James Lomuscio for WestportNow.com
Train Woes
What should have been a little more than an hour's journey from New York to Westport took almost three hours Friday night for passengers aboard Metro-North's 9:37 p.m. train out of Grand Central. The train lost power between East Norwalk and Westport and passengers waited in cars lit only by emergency lighting for an hour and 40 minutes while another train was brought to an adjoining track. Several dozen Westport-bound passengers who should have arrived at 10:43 p.m. finally pulled into the Saugatuck station at 12:25 a.m. today. CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
May 27, 2005
Break in the Weather -- Finally
Today's break in the weather – finally – brought out the sand shovel set as well as joggers to Westport's Compo Beach. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Phyllis Groner for WestportNow.com
Westport Board of Finance Seeks to Fill Vacancy
With the announced resignation of Democrat Steve Ezzes from the Westport Board of Finance, the board is seeking candidates to fill his term which expires in November 2007.
Under the Town Charter, the vacancy is to be filled "by appointment by the remaining members thereof for the unexpired portion of the term. When the person vacating the office was elected or appointed as a member of a political party, such vacancy must be filled from the membership of the same political party."
In a statement, the board requested that any interested Westport residents who are registered Democrats to submit their names before Tuesday, May 31 to Gail Cristiano, clerk of the Board of Finance, at Westport Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Ave., Westport, CT 06880, phone (203)341-1037 for consideration.
Westport Craft Show Debuts Saturday at Staples
The 39th annual Westport Craft Show, one of the oldest and most respected fine craft shows in the Northeast, debuts Saturday at Staples High School.
With 185 juried exhibitors, it is one of the largest craft shows in the area and features top artisans from across North America. It runs Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Among the offerings are fine works in basketry, ceramics, decorative fiber, furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, paper, wearable fiber and wood.
The show is sponsored by the Westport-Weston Cooperative Nursery School.
Traditionally held over the Memorial Day Weekend, the show features food,
musical entertainment and activities for children.
Admission is charged: $7 for adults, $5 for seniors aged 62 and up, and children under 12 are free. Parking is on-site and also via shuttle bus.
Governor Proclaims "Staples High School Day" to Mark Science Achievements
Gov. M. Jodi Rell proclaimed Thursday "Staples High School Day" in Connecticut to recognize the science achievements of Westport's high school. Simultaneously, she proclaimed it "Shane E. Mulligan Day" to honor a Staples senior who won a top science award.
The governor's proclamations were announced at a dinner Thursday night in Rocky Hill hosted by the Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering that honored the state's most talented young scientists and engineers, including two Staples students.
Mulligan received the Joseph H. Gerber Medal of Excellence for his science research efforts. Sophomore Nina Lintermans was honored for her studies of global warming and bird migration which won first place at the 2005 Connecticut Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium
Mulligan received a $1,000 prize in addition to a certificate, while Lintermans was awarded a certificate and Staples was awarded a $300 prize for its science department.
Staples science teacher Dr. A.J. Scheetz said he was proud of both students and noted that Nina's sister Sophie also won a prize last year in the Connecticut Junior Science and Humanities Symposium.
Here is the text of Rell's proclamation on "Staples High School Day" as provided by Rell's office:
"On behalf of the State of Connecticut, I, M. Jodi Rell, Governor, take great pleasure in congratulating Staples High School Science Department as you are being honored for having the First Place Winner at the 2005 Connecticut Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium
"This is a tremendous distinction that I am certain will greatly increase school pride and further motivate your students. I commend your perseverance and dedication to science education.
"The winning project, 'Global Warming: Analysis and Modeling of Bird Migratory Patterns as a Predictive Tool', by Nina Lintermans, is certainly an outstanding accomplishment and a testament to your expertise and ability to inspire your students.
"Your school is a fine example of science education in the State of Connecticut and it is an honor to join with your faculty and students in recognizing and rejoicing in this achievement.
"Therefore, I, M. Jodi Rell, Governor of the State of Connecticut, do hereby proclaim May 26, 2005, as Staples High School Day in the State of Connecticut. I urge all citizens to join me in applauding your achievements and in wishing you the very best for continued success."
The text of the Mulligan proclamation: "On behalf of the State of Connecticut,
I, M. Jodi Rell, Governor, take great pleasure in congratulating Shane E. Mulligan as you are being honored as the First Place Winner in the 2005 Connecticut Science Fair Life Sciences-Senior Division. This is a tremendous distinction that I am certain you will carry with pride and honor.
"I commend your perseverance and dedication to the study of science. Your project, 'The Construction of a Self-Assembling DNA Nanohexagon Capable of Protein Storage and Release,' is certainly an outstanding accomplishment and a testament to your expertise, originality and creativity.
"You are a fine representative of the State of Connecticut and it is an honor to join with your family and friends in recognizing and rejoicing in this achievement.
"Therefore, I, M. Jodi Rell, Governor of the State of Connecticut, do hereby proclaim May 26, 2005, as Shane E. Mulligan Day in the State of Connecticut. I urge all citizens to join me in applauding your achievements and in wishing you the very best for continued success."
CLASP Homes Raises $30,000 with "Taste of Westport" Fund-Raiser
The "Taste of Westport" fund-raiser earlier this month for CLASP Homes raised $30,000 for the Westport-based group that aids people with development disabilities, organizers announced.
Enjoying the evening: Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell (r) and Betty Lou Cummings were among "Taste of Westport" attendees. Contriibuted photo
The May 5 event, the first of its kind in Westport, featured gourmet food and beverages served poolside at the Westport Inn. Sushi, seared beef, penne a la vodka, and many other dishes were donated by 20 local restaurants and distributors.
More than 250 guests enjoyed the party atmosphere, as well as an extensive silent auction, CLASP President Tracy Flood said.
“We are so thrilled with the response from the restaurants, and the community at large," she said. "The planning committee included Betty Lou Cummings, Toni and Steve Rubin, Carline Dean, Bob Hertzel, among others. It was truly a joint effort.”
Flood said the Westport Inn donated all its space and expertise, making the first annual event "a terrific success." She urged Westporters to mark their calendars for May 4, 2006, at the Westport Inn.
The mission of CLASP, a Westport based non profit, is to increase public understanding of people with developmental disabilities, while fostering independence and continued growth. For more information call Alisa Levinson at (203)226-7895, ext. 144, or visit www.clasphomes.org.
May 26, 2005
Bridgeport Hospital Honors Westport Fire, Police and EMS Heroes
They are on call 24/7 and days and weeks may go by without facing a life-or-death situation. But Westport's emergency service workers are always at the ready and today Bridgeport Hospital honored 13 of them for lifesaving incidents in 2004.
Heroes honored: Bridgeport Hospital paid tribute to 13 Westport emergency services personnel for lifesaving incidents in 2004. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo
Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell was on hand for the “Fairfield County Hero Award” presentation ceremony along with Fire Chief Chris Ackley, and Deputy Police Chiefs Don Brown and David Heinmiller.
The first group honored included Westport Police Officer Anastasia DeLuca and Westport Firefighters Philip Hessberger and Brett Kirby. On Oct. 26, 2004, the trio responded to a call of an unconscious woman lying in the roadway. Upon arrival they found that the woman had no pulse or respirations and was in cardiac arrest.
The trio began CPR and utilized a defibrillator to restore the victim’s pulse and respirations. Upon the arrival of Westport EMS, the victim was stabilized and transported to the hospital. The woman was released from the hospital several days later.
The second group honored included Westport Police Officers Robert Lopiano and Jill Ruggiero and Westport EMS Paramedic Marc Hartog, Crew Chief Ben Frimmer, Crew Chief Alan Stolz and EMTs Danielle Faul, Joe Devermann and Chris Renne.
On May 19, 2004, Lopiano and Ruggiero responded to a motor vehicle accident near police and EMS headquarters and found a woman driver unconscious on the front seat of her vehicle with no vital signs. They removed the victim from her vehicle and began CPR and initiated a defibrillator analysis.
With the quick arrival of Westport EMS personnel Crew Chief Ben Frimmer, Crew Chief Alan Stolz, EMTs Danielle Faul, Joe Devermann and Chris Renne along with Paramedic Marc Hartog, the victim was defibrillated, and the victim's pulse returned.
The victim was intubated to assist breathing and an IV was administered as the victim was transported to the hospital. The victim was released from the hospital approximately one week later.
Farrell praised the emergency services personnel for their lifesaving actions and thanked all emergency services personnel as everyday heroes.
Y's Men Play it Cool at Sherwood Island
The Y's Men of Westport/Weston held their annual meeting, election of officers and picnic lunch at Sherwood Island State Park today. The well-attended, fun and cool (literally) event was the final meeting of the Y's Men until September. A special highlight was a performance by the popular Y's Men singing group, the Hoot Owls.The photo shows outgoing President Bob McGrath giving this year's Owl award to Bill Balch and Larry Untermeyer (both WestportNow contributing photographers) with incoming president Bill Meyer looking on. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo
Flying the Flags
The flags were flying stiffly today on Westport's Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge in the town's center under overcast skies. The forecast called for clearing weather and warmer temperatures for the Memorial Day weekend. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) James Lomuscio for WestportNow.com
Children's Author/Illustrator Visits Kings Highway
Hans Wilhelm, a Weston author and illustrator of more than 180 books for children and adults, recently visited Westport's Kings Highway Elementary School. The kindergarten through third grades did an author study of him which culminated in his visit. The kids loved it, especially when he collaborated with them on telling a story with characters the students created. With him is Suse Marciano, a longtime admirer. Contributed photo
Charter Oak: Six Figures for Six Nonprofits
The Westport-based Charter Oak Challenge Foundation recently made six grants totaling $112,640 to state and regional social service agencies to address housing and educational needs required to combat poverty.
Recipients included: Operation Hope, a Fairfield-based group providing homeless shelters and services; Fairfield '08, a coalition of local nonprofits dedicated to expanding affordable housing units in Fairfield County; FSW, a Bridgeport group that teaches low-income families financial literacy about mortgages, loans and foreclosures; Lawyers for Children America, a Hartford nonprofit that recruits lawyers to provide pro bono representation for abused and neglected children; the Connecticut Association for Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities in Norwalk; and Bridgeport's Parent Leadership Training Institute, which teaches parenting skills to improve child health, safety and learning.
“Most of our grants relate to housing and education, two issues that are crucial when it comes to combating poverty,” said Andy Boas, Charter Oak's president.
Founded in 2001, Charter Oak has raised and donated more than $1.5 million to nonprofit groups. According to Boas, "100 percent of contributions to Charter Oak go directly to support its programming and grants."
For more information about the Charter Oak Challenge Foundation or the organizations it supports, call (203)226-2307 or visit www.charteroakfoundation.org.
Rainy Compo
This week's cool, rainy and overcast weather kept Westporters away from Compo Beach only days before the unofficial start of the summer season with Memorial Day weekend. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) James Lomuscio for WestportNow.com
Thursday, May, 26, 2005
8:30 a.m. - Town Hall Room 309/307 - Human Services Community Support and Counseling Team
7 p.m. - Town Hall Room 309 - Sherwood Mill Pond Committee
7:30 p.m. - Town Hall Room 201 - Planning and Zoning Commission work session
7:30 P.M. - Town Hall Room 307 - Board of Education Public Hearing
May 25, 2005
Moment of Victory
The Wrecker bench exploded with cheers tonight as Staples defeated Fairfield 3-0 to win the FCIAC volleyball title for the third year in a row. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Galen Bluementhal for WestportNow.com
Three-peat for Wreckers in FCIAC Volleyball
The Staples High School volleyball team won it third straight FCIAC title tonight by defeating Fairfield 3-0 at Fairfield. Coach Bruce Betts contains the emotions of his players in a time out just one point away from victory. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Galen Bluementhal for WestportNow.com
Getting the Serve Over
Senior Co-Captain Nick Corona sends the serve over to Fairfield in tonight's 3-0 Staples FCIAC championship victory. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Galen Bluementhal for WestportNow.com
Bank Donates $25,000 to YMCA Access Fund
Fairfield County Bancorp today donated $25,000 to the Westport/Weston YMCA for its Access Fund. Charles Bassos, bank vice chairman, presented a check to Rosemary Halstead, president of the YMCA Board of Directors.The Access Fund provides financial assistance to individuals and families for YMCA child care, camperships (sponsoring children at Camp Mahackeno), special needs, aquatic programs and YMCA memberships. Behind Halstead is Rick Saltz, chief financial officer of the YMCA, and Dick Foot, the YMCA's CEO. Seated on the right is Robert J. Connelly, Westport-Fairfield division president of Fairfield County Bancorp. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
All Gone: 45 Compo Road South
The house at 45 Compo Road South came down Tuesday. Featured as WestportNow's teardown of the day March 3, 2005, the house sold in April for $825,000 after changing hands in May 2004 for $710,000. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
“Back in Tune” Seeks Used Musical Instruments for Kids in Need
Two Staples High School music enthusiasts have found a way to provide instruments to students who otherwise couldn’t afford them. 
Instrument roundup: Nick DiBerardino (l) and Austin Siegert launch “Back In Tune” by donating their own first instruments to Principal Ann deBernard of Waltersville School, an elementary performing arts school in Bridgeport. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo
The two sophomores, Nick DiBerardino and Austin Siegert, both 16, realized that many instruments are basically abandoned in closets throughout Westport and could be put to good use helping students in less wealthy areas of Fairfield County.
“Many parents buy their kids instruments in elementary or middle school that are later stuck in closets when their kids lose interest in music or no longer have the time for it,” DiBerardino said.
“There are also many instruments put aside when high school students upgrade to more expensive instruments to play in high school,” Siegert said.
Last winter, DiBerardino and Siegert began kicking around the idea of gathering the unused instruments and finding them new homes with students less fortunate than they are. They soon came up with a new organization called “Back In Tune.”
“Music is such an important part of my life and I’d like to give that gift to others,” DiBerardino said. Siegert added, “I can’t imagine what it would be like to have an interest in music and not be able to learn how to play an instrument.”
“During our planning, we became concerned that some of the instruments we receive might be damaged or unplayable,” DiBerardino said. “Recently, we met with Stephen Sasloe, Director of the Westport Music Center. They’ve been incredibly supportive,” Siegert said.
Both students have been taking lessons at the Center since elementary school. They were delighted to hear that the Westport Music Center will help return the instruments collected back to playing condition. Sasloe added, “Instruments are meant to be played, not to be stored, and rarely need very much work to put them back in playing condition.”
The first beneficiary target is the Waltersville School, a K-6 elementary school in Bridgeport that has recently been designated as a Performing Arts School. The boys have met with the principal, Dr. Ann deBernard and learned of the school’s needs.
Since the children are of elementary school age they are in need of the basic band instruments; flutes, clarinets, saxophones, trumpets and trombones. Especially needed are small one-quarter and half-size string instruments and bows since they can start the children as early as kindergarten on string instruments.
Dr. deBernard told both DiBerardino and Siegert that she is “enormously grateful and is even hoping that they would be willing to also donate their time to help the young students practice and learn to play their new instruments.” Both students plan on doing just that. Currently the school has only eight instruments for its band program.
The youths ask anyone interested in donating an instrument to call them -- Nick at (203) 227-4471 or Austin at (203) 454-1954. All donations are tax deductible and will receive a thank you letter and receipt from Dr. deBernard, they said
This Weather is for the Birds
As dark clouds converged over downtown Westport, two ducks and a swan headed for shelter in the reeds of the Saugatuck River near Parker Harding Plaza. The forecast was for continued unseasonably cool, overcast weather. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) James Lomuscio for WestportNow.com
Westport Property Transfers May 16-20, 2005
Property transfers as reported by the Westport Town Clerk's office for the period May 16-20, 2005:
Linda M. Johnson to Louis J. and Jacqueline Kolek, 7 Lone Pine Lane, $925,000
Rui Pereira and Grace Tl Viana to Robyn B. Crain, 11 Fillow St., $702,500
Jewish Community Endowment Foundation to Scott Smith, 73 Valley Road, $584,000
Suzanne Weinstein Trust to J Lyons and Katherine R. Brewer, 23 Gault Park Drive, $1,269,000
Eric G. and Michelle Lieberson to Joseph A. Pucci Jr. and Dara H. Lieberson, 3 Weston Road, $860,000
Joseph A. Pucci Jr. and Dara H. Lieberson to Michael D. and Katherine J. Phillis, 9 Hickory Hill Road, $815,000
Phillip A. Essenhigh and Andrea Kingsley to Craig C. and Carolin C. Barney Jr., 5 Hickory Hill Road, $910,000
Robert and Roberta Elson to Axis Point Group Holdings LLC, 44 Pumpkin Hill, $1,181,000
Ray Meyerson to Kurt W. and Carolyn C. Eichorn, 402 Greens Farms Road, $1,100,000
Louis J. and Jacqueline Kolek to Jeffery Hingst, 7 Webb Road, $810,000
Michael Silber and Stella P. Rosenthal to Migroup Inc., 17 Bulkley Ave. North, $649,000
Migoup Inc. to Jonas C. and Stephanie E. Katz, 17 Bulkley Ave. North, $649,000
Peter W. Marshall to Robert and Roberta Elson, 40 Kings Highway North, $1,700,000
William J. and Heidi S. Laros to Gary C. and Sally A. Effman, 4 Crawford Road, $1,850,000
Estate of Mary Helen Janson to Jonathan M. Harris, 15 Strathmore Lane, $425,000
Jeffery F. and Jennifer C. Putnam to Sonja D. and John P. Tracey, 23 Colony Road, $1,195,200
Michael J. and Nancy S. Burke to Peter Andrew and Pamela J. Huggins, 71 Sylvan Road North, $1,341,100
Richard Barnett to Michele M. Williams and Mark Loughridge, 15 Soundview Drive, $3,500,000
Westport View Corporate Center LLC to Pre/Wright Street LLC, 8 and 10 Wright St., $24,8000,000
Michael P. Kashetta to Thomas D. Kashetta, 21 Bulkley Ave. North, $325,000
Berkley Holdings Corporation to John B. Place, 22 Terra Nova Circle, $1,350,000
A Faithful TEAM Effort
By James Lomuscio
WestportNow Special Correspondent
Forget politically correct platitudes. A lot of frank talk about perceptions of Islam, Judaism and Christianity -- and biases -- filled the auditorium at Westport's Town Hall Tuesday night at the TEAM Westport-sponsored discussion "Who's Your Neighbor?"
The TEAM discussion brought together (l-r): the Rev. John Branson of Christ and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Rabbi Robert Orkand of Temple Israel, Dr. Kareen Adeeb of the American Institute of Islamic and Arabic Studies and the Rev. Frank Hall of the Unitarian Universalist Church, who moderated. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) James Lomuscio for WestportNow.com
The event drew an ethnically diverse crowd of more than 30.
"I've always heard religion and politics are two topics to avoid," said First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell, who welcomed the group.
But she added that the last time the town hosted such a discussion was around 9-11, "and I think it's important to look at it four years later and to see where we are."
The discussion moderated by the Rev. Frank Hall of Westport's Unitarian Universalist Church included: Rabbi Robert Orkand of Temple Israel, the Rev. John H. Branson, rector of Christ and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, and Dr. Kareen Adeeb, an Imam who heads the Fairfield-based American Institute for Islamic and Arabic Studies.
"I hope that it's not boring and not too patronizing," Hall said before the talk began. "I hope there will be some surprises."
There were. For example, Orkand said Westport, even with its long history of welcoming Jews, has had its recent share of anti-Semitic rhetoric and incidences in its schools. Adeeb assailed the media for portraying a "monolithic image of Islam as terrorists" and challenged the audience to talk to Muslims and attend a service.
And Branson, who said his role on the panel was to represent Christianity, expressed concern about the religious right who say America is a Christian nation.
"Religion mixed with politics makes a volatile mixture than can combust," Branson said. "The question is, 'How can we hold onto our faiths while respecting those who are different?' "
Adeeb agreed that the point of the discussion was not to rationalize that one religion was just as good as the other, since the faithful of each religion do not believe that. The important thing, he stressed, was to respect religions different from one's own. He took issue with the word tolerance, saying that it had negative, defeatist connotations.
"People need a better understanding of each other because they are afraid of the unknown," said Adeeb. "If we all come from Adam, Adam was neither a Christian, a Jew or a Muslim. He was a human, and we have to focus on our humanity.
"Religion is supposed to bring people together," he added. "Unfortunately, people are using all religions to separate people from each other and to preach hate."
Harold Bailey, chairman of TEAM, an acronym for Together Effectively Achieving Multi-culturalism, said his organization's goal is to engage townspeople in candid discussions on issues of race, ethnicity, religion and sexual orientation.
"The general idea is engagement and to get some light bulbs going off," he said.
Talking Transportation: “Do You Believe In Ferries? ”
By Jim Cameron
Special to WestportNow
If you believe in ferries, then clap your hands. Sage advice from Peter Pan, but as your applause subsides, let me debunk the popular myth that the solutions to our transportation woes can be found on Long Island Sound. Ferry boats face several challenges:
SPEED: In open water, fast ferries on the Sound could make 30 knots (35 mph). But if they must sail up inlets to the downtown areas of Bridgeport, Norwalk or Stamford that speed is cut to five knots, losing precious travel time.
PORTS: To keep to competitive speeds, docks would have to be located close to the Sound. That’s expensive real estate. And what about parking at those docks… and travel time on local roads to reach them? Again, more lost travel time.
FREQUENCY: Metro-North offers trains to midtown New York every 20 minutes in rush hour. No ferry service anywhere in the country can compete with that frequency of service. Will travelers really be willing to wait an hour or two for the next boat?
COMFORT: In nice weather, a boat ride to work sounds idyllic. But what about in a blizzard? The bumpiest ride on the train pales by comparison.
FARES: The most optimistic of would-be ferry operators estimate their fares will be at least double those charged on the train. And people say Metro-North is too expensive?
OPERATING COSTS: One of the reasons fares would be so high is that fast ferries are gas guzzlers, the aquatic answer to the Concorde. When the Pequot Indians built high speed catamarans to ferry gamblers to their casino in Connecticut, the service lost so much money that the Pequot’s dry-docked the ship in Bridgeport.
COMPETITION: When a private operator tried to run ferry service from Glen Cove, L.I. to Midtown, paralleling a route well served by the LIRR, they shut down after just a few months because they couldn’t compete with the trains. Coastal Connecticut is already well-served by fast, efficient rail service, so why duplicate what already works?
What might work would be a ferry to LaGuardia Airport. But when Pan Am’s water shuttle couldn’t make a go of it ferrying fat cats to Wall Street, I’m not even sure an airport service would make sense. There are too many faster, cheaper ways of getting there already.
The final reason I don’t think ferries make economic sense is that nobody else does. Ferry operators (like the near-bankrupt New York Waterways) aren’t stupid. They’ve looked at possible service from coastal Connecticut, crunched the numbers and backed off. In a free market economy, if there was a buck to be made running ferries, they’d be operating by now. They aren’t, and there are lots of reasons, many of which I’ve listed.
The only place ferries are running successfully is where they’re heavily subsidized (everywhere), have a monopoly (for example, getting to downtown Seattle from an island suburb), don’t duplicate existing transportation routes (like from Bridgeport to Port Jefferson), or offer advantages of speed because they operate on extremely short runs (from Hoboken to Midtown). Our situation here in Connecticut matches none of those tests.
You already know I’m a train nut. (The bumper sticker on my car reads “I’d Rather Be On The Train.”). And I do love an occasional recreational sail on the Sound. But I just think it’s unrealistic to think that commutation by ferries is really in our future.
Sorry Tinkerbelle. I’m not clapping.
(Editor's Note: Jim Cameron has been a Darien resident for 14 years. He is vice chairman of the Connecticut Metro-North Shore Line East Rail Commuter Council and a member of the Coastal Corridor Transportation Investment Area, one of five Transportation Investment Areas established by the Connecticut General Assembly in July 2001 to develop 20-year strategic plans for each of the state's major transportation corridors. He is also a member of the Darien Representative Town Meeting. The opinions and accuracy of information in this article are the responsibility of the contributor. E-mail him at jim@camcomm.com or www.trainweb.org/ct)
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
10:30 a.m. - Town Hall Room 102 - International Hospitality Committee
Noon - Town Hall Room 309/307 - Citizens brown bag lunch
4 p.m. - Town Hall Room 102 - School Building Committee Staples Subcommittee
5 p.m. - Town Hall Room 309/307 - Board of Selectmen
7:30 p.m. - Town Hall Auditorium - Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing on Big Houses
7:45 p.m. - Town Hall Room 309/307 - RTM Public Works/Finance Committees
May 24, 2005
1964 Staples Backfield Honored
Among those honored tonight at the Sportsmen of Westport's 44th Dinner of Champions in Norwalk were four players who formed the backfield of the 1964 Staples football team, among the best of all-time. Fomer Coach Paul Lane (l) led tributes to (l-r) John Bolger, Bill During, William Leavitt, and Jack Forehand. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Sportsmen Honor "Junior" Bieling
The Sportsmen of Westport tonight honored John M. Bieling, Jr., better known as "Junior," with the William A. Krause Humanitarian Award, named for the group's late president. Presenting him with the award at a banquet at Norwalk's Continental Manor were state Sen. Robert Duff (l) and his wife Tracy, Krause's daughter. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Longtime Westport Employees Honored
Friends and colleagues paid tribute tonight to two longtime Town of Westport employees who are retiring this year, Kathy Barnard (l) director of Planning and Zoning, and Judy Nelson (2nd l), director of the Westport Weston Health District. Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell and Weston First Selectman Woody Bliss read proclaimations honoring the pair at the event at the Inn at Longshore. Among their gifts -- large portraits and one word that Jim Ezzes, chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals, said characterized their tenures: "DENIED." (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Sharing a Laugh
Kathy Barnard, retiring Westport Planning and Zoning director (l), shares a laugh tonight with Judy Nelson, retired director of the Westport Weston Health District at a reception in their honor at the Inn at Longshore. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Ridgefield High Principal Withdraws from Staples Post
Diana Lindsay: finalist candidate withdraws.WN photoOne day after meeting with Westport teachers, parents, and community members, Diana Lindsay, the finalist candidate for Staples High School principal, abruptly withdrew her candidacy for the position, Schools Superintendent Elliott Landon said today.
Lindsay, principal at Ridgefield High School, called him this afternoon to inform him of her decision, Landon said. He did not give a reason for her change of mind but said it followed an early morning meeting with Ridgefield school officials.
"It's strange because she said on Monday that Ridgefield wasn't right for her, then today she said Westport wasn't right for her," Landon said.
In an e-mail distributed to Ridgefield parents, Ridgefield Schools Superintendent Kenneth R. Freeston said: "Dr. Lindsay announced today that she is staying in Ridgefield and has declined the overtures of the Westport Public Schools to recruit her from Ridgefield to Westport."
Lindsay, a Massachusetts native who had spent most of her teaching and administrative career in Ohio and Illinois, had met Monday with parents, teachers, and community members in meetings that began in the morning and continued Monday night.
A search committee had identified her as the finalist candidate to replace interim Principal John Dodig who has held the post for a year. Dodig has filled in for John Brady, the Staples principal who left for a superintendent's job in another Connecticut district
Landon said Dodig, who had previously indicated his continued availability should the search not produce a candidate, would remain interim principal.
Norwalk Mayor Suggests More Cooperative Efforts With Westport
Norwalk Mayor Alex Knopp touted his "smart government" initiatives today in an address to the Westport Rotary Club weekly luncheon at the Inn at Longshore. Knopp, who grew up in Westport and who recently hired Westport Fire Chief Denis McCarthy to run Norwalk's department, said some of the initiatives could be adopted by Westport. He also said there are many areas where Norwalk and Westport can increase their cooperation that will result in improved, more cost-effective services for both communities. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
Former Westporter Held in Terrorist Bomb Plot
Ronald Grecula 1955 Staples yearbook photoA former Westporter and 1955 Staples High School graduate who said he had "no loyalty to America whatsoever" is being held by federal authorities in Texas for allegedly trying to build a huge bomb for Al Qaeda in exchange for killing his estranged wife, according to authorities.
Ronald Grecula, 68, was being held without bail after making claims he could build a bomb that "could be used by any organization to take down buildings anywhere in the world," U.S. Attorney Michael Shelby told reporters in Houston.
Grecula was arrested on Friday after FBI agents lured him to Houston for a supposed meeting with a potential bomb buyer that was presented to him as Al Qaeda, the group responsible for the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington.
"Of course, I don't like how y'all are killing Americans, but America has asked for it. They asked for it. So they want a war, they got it," Grecula said, according a transcript of the meeting released by authorities.
Shelby said Grecula, who most recently lived in Bangor, Pa., faces up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if convicted.
A fellow member of the Staples class recalls him as being a "difficult" student then and said the last time he saw him was at a 25th high school reunion in Westport in 1980 which he attended with his then French-born wife.
"He caused no end of problems with our wives as he made it clear that his young, French wife was much superior to any American woman," said the classmate, who asked not to be identified.
In advance of the reunion, organizers asked class members for brief updates on their lives for a reunion program. Grecula's mailed contribution said simply "deceased." He then appeared with his wife, according to the classmate.
The classmate said he remembers Grecula being arrested in Westport some time after high school for possessing fireworks illegally and that he believes at the time police actually found him in possession of explosives.
A 1962 telephone directory shows a Grecula family living on Maple Avenue North.
The 1955 Staples yearbook included a picture of Grecula and noted below it: "Tastyee Weaterman...casual and loquacious...athletically inclined...mad for metereology...Do I Know You?...college a possibility." It said he had participated in baseball in his sophomore, junior, and senior years.
Cool Day
Monday's partly cloudy skies and relatively cool temperatures made it seem more like early spring than the middle of May. This was the scene at Westport's Burying Hill Beach. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Emily Laux for WestportNow.com photo
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
7 p.m. - Town Hall Auditorium - TEAM Westport Committee - Conversation on Tolerance
7:30 p.m. - Town Hall Room 309 - Architectural Review Board
7:30 p.m. - Town Hall Room 201/201A - Board of Education
May 23, 2005
Supporting the Playhouse
Atttorney General Richard Blumenthal addresses a fund-raiser for the Westport Country Playhouse tonight at Derma Clinic in Playhouse Square, adjoining the Playhouse property. With him are (l-r) Liz Morten, Playhouse chair, Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell, Joanne Woodward, Playhouse artistic director, and Patricia O'Regan Brown, Derma Clinic owner. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Ridgefield High Principal Meets With Community as Staples Principal Finalist
Diana Lindsay: finalist candidate. WN photoThe principal of Ridgefield High School, Diana Lindsay, met with community members today as the single finalist for principal of Staples High School.
Lindsay, a Massachusetts native who had spent most of her teaching and administrative career in Ohio and Illinois, met with parents, teachers, and community members in meetings that began this morning and continued this evening.
A search committee identified her as the finalist candidate to replace interim Principal John Dodig who has held the post for a year. Dodig has filled in for John Brady, the Staples principal who left for a superintendent's job in another Connecticut district
"This candidate has the support and endorsement of the Staples High School Principal Selection Committee, a group consisting of teachers, administrators, parents, students, and the Superintendent of Schools," Landon wrote in a letter to parents last week.
Former RTM Member Catherine "Kay" MyGodney Dies at 81
Catherine MyGodney: former RTM member. WN photoCatherine "Kay" MyGodney, a lifelong resident of Westport and former member of the Representative Town Meeting (RTM), died Sunday at Norwalk Hospital. She was 81.
MyGodney, who served on the RTM from 1997 to 2003, was a longtime member and current chaplain for the Ladies Auxiliary of the Joseph J. Clinton VFW Post #399. She was also a regular attendee at the weekly Town Hall brown bag lunch.
Born Nov. 8, 1923, she was the daughter of the late John and Anastasia Guida MyGodney.
Survivors include one sister, Mary Alice Bella of Stamford., one brother, Stephen MyGodney of Fairfield, two nieces and two nephews. She was also predeceased by one sister, Anna Preg in 1998.
Friends are invited to attend a funeral service Thursday 11 a.m. in the Harding Funeral Home, 210 Post Road. East., Westport. Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery, Kings Highway North.
The family will receive friends in the funeral home Thursday from 9 a.m. until time of service. Contributions may be made to a charity of choice.
Doing the Honors
Doing the honors at today's Westport Country Playhouse ribbon-cutting ceremony were (l-r) Lt. Gov. Kevin Sullivan, Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell, board chair Elisabeth Morten, Artistic Director Joanne Woodward, and president John Vaccaro. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
Playhouse Open for Business
With the snip of shears before a crowd of 200, the newly remodeled Westport Country Playhouse was officially back in business today in time to launch its 75th season.
Memories: Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell (r) chats with Ann Sheffer (c), Playhouse board member, and David James McKenzie, son of the late James B. McKenzie, longtime head of the Westport Country Playhouse, at today's ribbon-cutting. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
"The box office is now open," quipped First Selectwoman Diane Farrell, who took part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony with Lt. Gov. Kevin Sullivan, Liz Morten, past president of the Playhouse, current president John Vaccaro and Joanne Woodward, artistic director.
Dark rain clouds threatened the morning ceremony, but the weather held as the dignitaries snipped a large yellow ribbon across the main entry stairway with the black shears which they later autographed. Workmen, meanwhile, hurried completion of the Playhouse gardens and patio nearby.
The $18.7 million, 13-month long renovation expanded the drafty, old summer theater from a 10,000-square-foot barn to 40,000-square-foot year-round playhouse.
"Why is the Playhouse so important?" Morten asked in her opening remarks. "Stand in the lobby. Sit in the seats and take in the wonderful view from the balcony."
She added that the new and improved facility respects the charm of the old building, and is "still a refuge for the ghosts of the past."
"We're absolutely delighted that this day has come," said Sullivan. "One of the great strengths of our state is its culture. It's what makes Connecticut a quality-of-life place to live."
The state gave $5 million toward the Playhouse's fundraising goal of $30 million for restoration and operating costs, and set the stage for other donors.
"This really is a community effort and a community event," said Farrell, who issued a proclamation dubbing May 23 as Westport Country Playhouse Day.
Sullivan said Rell had declared June 16, the date of the opening performance, as Playhouse Day in the state. The Playhouse will debut its season with "Finian's Rainbow," folowed by "Dear Brutus," "The Member of the Wedding," and "Journey's End." (See WestportNow March 16, 2005)
Westport Country Playhouse Officially Reopens
Rain clouds threatened but the sunny weather held for today's official ribbon-cutting ceremony at the updated Westport Country Playhouse. The landmark facility begins its 75th season next month after a 13-month renovation and expansion program that cost more than $18.7 million. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Smiles and Hugs
There were smiles and hugs following the official ribbon-cutting ceremony today at the Westport Country Playhouse. Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell (l) watches as Playhouse former president Elisabeth Morten gets a hug from Artistic Director Joanne Woodward. Lt. Gov. Kevin Sullivan (2nd l) and president John Vaccaro look on. WestportNow.com photo
Mezzanine View
Visitors check out the interior of the Westport Country Playhouse following today's ribbon-cutting ceremony. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Ending on a High Note
It was a disappointing season for the Staples varsity baseball team, but it ended Friday on a high note as the Wreckers trounced Darien 9-4 at Darien. Tri-captains (l-r) Dan Rueven, Art Phillips, and Kevin McCarthy led the team this year. The final game saw Phillips going 3-for-4 with a homer and three RBI, and Reuven with two doubles and two RBI. Also contributing to the win was D.J. Stefkovich with a double, triple, and two RBI. The Wreckers finished 7-13 overall and 6-12 in FCIAC play. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Pam Moss for WestportNow.com
Today's Westport Teardown: 14 Burr Road
Today's WestportNow teardown is 14 Burr Road between Riverside Avenue and Post Road West. The home was built in 1910. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
Monday, May 23, 2005
9:30 a.m. - Westport Country Playhouse - ribbon-cutting ceremony
7 p.m. - Town Hall Room 201 - RTM Environmental Committee
7 p.m. - Town Hll Auditorium - RTM Public Protection Committee
May 22, 2005
WSA, Staples Boys Soccer Team Up to Tailgate at Giants Stadium
The Westport Soccer Association and Staples High School boys' soccer program are teaming up for the second annual tailgate and game at Giants Stadium.
The event is set for Saturday, June 18, prior to the MetroStars-Columbus Crew game. An added attraction this year is the chance to see Crew star Kyle Martino, a Westport native and former Staples player.
All WSA and Staples players, parents, friends and soccer fans are invited, according to an announcement.
The fun begins at 5 p.m., with a tailgate in the Meadowlands parking lot. Food and drinks are provided. WSA players will get a chance to meet members of the Staples boys' soccer teams.
The Wreckers will organize fun contests, such as juggling and dribbling, with prizes for the winners. At 7:30 p.m., everyone will head into the stadium to watch the MetroStars-Crew contest.
"Last year's event was lots of fun," said Staples varsity coach Dan Woog. "Our players had a great time, and the younger kids really enjoyed themselves too.
"It was nice to see the parents get involved too. It was a wonderful way for the entire Westport soccer community to come together socially. Watching the pro game afterward was icing on the cake."
Tickets cost $35 each, and include food, game admission and special WSA/Staples hat. Checks made out to "WSA" can be sent to: Michelle Williams, 3 Quentin Road, Westport, CT 06880. For questions, call Dan Woog at (203)227-1755.
State DEP Commissioner Vows to Fight for Increased Spending for State Parks
Gina McCarthy, newly-appointed commissioner of the state Department of Environmental Protection, vowed today to fight for increased state spending to maintain Connecticut's parks. Speaking at the annual meeting of The Friends of Sherwood Island at Westport's Sherwood Island State Park, McCarthy said parks are "just as important as big ticket items we deal with every day." She also urged that children engage in more unstructured play activities, which she called her "No Child Left Inside Campaign." McCarthy added, "I can climb a tree better than my kids can." (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
High-Powered Friends of Sherwood Island
Today's annual meeting of The Friends of Sherwood Island at Westport's Sherwood Island State Park attracted a number of luminaries, including (l-r) Gina McCarthy, newly-appointed commissioner of the state Department of Environmental Protection; state Rep. Joe Mioli; state Sen. Judith Freedman; Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell, and Judy Nelson, retired director of the Westport Westport Health District. McCarthy and Nelson addressed the meeting. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Retired Health District Director Judy Nelson Honored
The Friends of Sherwood Island today honored July Nelson (r), who recently retired after 20 years as director of the Westport Weston Health District. Hope Hageman, Friends past president and current membership chair, presented Nelson with some gifts at the annual meeting at the Sherwood Island Pavilion. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Among Friends
Despite chilly, overcast weather, there was a good turnout for today's annual meeting of The Friends of Sherwood Island at Westport's Sherwood Island State Park. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) WestportNow.com photo
Honoring Veterans
James Overton, 12, of Westport Boy Scout Troop 39 places flags at a grave of a veteran Saturday. Each year the troop has a tradition of assisting members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars with replacing old flags with new ones on veterans' graves in time for Memorial Day. They replaced flags and checked each grave at Greens Farms and Assumption, Christ and Holy Trinity, and Willowbrook Cemeteries. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Marilyn Smith for WestportNow.com
Doing Their Duty
Seven Boy Scouts from Troop 39 took part Saturday in helping replace flags at the graves of veterans at Westport cemeteries in advance of Memorial Day. Zach Bomes, 12, (l) and Kyle Degener, 11, both sixth graders at Bedford Middle School, were among them. Frank Ambrose of the Veterans of Foreign Wars said that he has replaced the flags in rain or shine to honor servicemen for more than 10 years. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Marilyn Smith for WestportNow.com
Sunday, May 22, 2005
8 a.m. - Sherwood Island State Park - Friends of Sherwood Island annual meeting
