Talking Transportation Comes to The Westport Local Press

By Jim Cameron

Contributed photo

I am thrilled to announce that my commentaries on transportation, “Talking Transportation”, are coming to The Westport Local Press.  Look for my column each Monday.

For over 30 years I have worked as an advocate for commuters, especially those on Metro-North.  I spent almost 20 years on The CT Metro-North Commuter Council and more recently as founder of The Commuter Action Group.

We have fought to have commuters’ voices heard by the railroad, the Connecticut Dept of Transportation and local communities.  Our victories have included ordering of the new M8 cars, timetable adjustments, additional station parking and creation of a “Passenger Pledge” by Metro-North.

In addition to legislative testimony and lobbying, much of my advocacy has come in my writing weekly commentaries for 15 years in local newspapers, all of which you can find archived on my blog.  As a former journalist I see my job as one of reporting what’s happening, offering analysis and even some solutions.

There are no easy solutions to our transportation woes:  if there were, we’d have solved those problems long ago.

As a commentator I have always tried to be provocative… to get people thinking, questioning their assumptions… but always supported by facts.  My dozens of confidential inside “sources” in the industry have always tipped me off to what’s really going on behind the façade of PR gloss promoted by the agencies.

I’m always open to discussion and debate and have relished my many in-person appearances in Westport over the years before your various civic groups.

My pledge to you is to always be honest, sometimes quite blunt.  You may not always agree with me, but at least we can get each other thinking.  

I always welcome your comments, story ideas and feedback.  You can reach me at CommuterActionGroup@gmail.com 

JIM CAMERON has been a commuter advocate for over 30 years.  A resident of Darien he serves on its Representative Town Meeting and is Program Director of the town government TV station, DarienTV79.  He can be reached at CommuterActionGroup@gmail.com and you can follow him on Twitter @CTRailCommuters 

Over One Thousand Flock to Saugatuck for Slices, Scoops, and Sliders

The 2021 Slice of Saugatuck drew over one thousand people into the community - eating their way through local restaurants while exploring local businesses. The Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce event raises money for Home with Hope, with ticket sales funding the non-profit as well as the work of the local chamber of commerce.

Silver Steel brings Sounds of the Islands to Saugatuck

Members of the Silver Steel Drum Band brought good vibes and great music to Saugatuck Center this afternoon as hundreds converged on the neighborhood for the Taste of Saugatuck event.

Superintendent: Investigation into Possible Racism during Cheshire Football Game Started; Police, ADL Give Support

Superintendent Thomas Scarice

Good afternoon,

Late last night I was made aware of a number of social media posts alleging anti-Semitic and racist actions and comments directed towards Staples players and students during the Staples/Cheshire High School football game in Cheshire.  I want to assure the community that any allegations such as these are taken with the utmost seriousness.  

I'd like to share some of the steps we've already taken.  I received a message from the Cheshire Superintendent at 11:40pm last night, and he assured me that the district and Cheshire law enforcement are investigating this matter.  We will continue to communicate until we have reached a resolution. I have spoken to Stafford Thomas, Staples Principal, and Marty Lisevick, Staples Athletic Director, and they will speak with each and every Staples student, or adult, who has factual information about this matter.  First Selectman Jim Marpe and I spoke this morning, and it is confirmed that our Police Chief, Foti Koskinas, will be in contact with the Cheshire Police Chief.

Perhaps most helpful in addressing this matter is the instant support that I received from the Director of the Connecticut Regional Office of the Anti-Defamation League, Steve Ginsburg.  Steve has already spoken with me and Chief Koskinas, and to representatives from Cheshire, including their superintendent and police chief.  We are all committed to cooperating, investigating, and addressing this matter.  

This incident was brought to light by some damning images and posts on social media.  Given the volatility of social media, I caution all members of the community to take a measured approach in addressing matters such as these.  It is necessary for the school administrations, and police departments when necessary, to gather facts before taking punitive action. If we confirm acts of anti-Semitism or race-based hate, we will assertively act.  If there are misunderstandings, we will work together to learn from these events.  

Our school administration will continue its investigation and follow up at the end of the day on Monday.  If you were present at the game and have information of any acts of anti-Semitism or race-based hate, please contact the Staples administration.  

Respectfully,

Thomas Scarice

Superintendent