Historic District Commission Selects 2023 Preservation Award Winners
The Westport Historic District Commission has selected the recipients of the 2023 Historic Preservation Awards. The awards will be presented by First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker, Historic District Commission Chair Grayson Braun, and members of the Historic District Commission at a ceremony on Thursday, May 4, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Auditorium. The following is a list of the selected recipients:
39 Cross Highway – Charles Chapman House - Preservation Award
222 Hillspoint Road –Old Mill Grocery and Deli - Legacy Business Preservation
35 Post Road West –Davis Taylor House – Preservation
276 Main Street – Patrick Rice House - Helen Muller Preservation Award
71 Hillandale Road - Greens Farms Church – Rehabilitation
8 Mayflower Parkway – Preservation
19 Soundview Drive – Stevens Cottage - Preservation
161 Cross Highway – Legacy Business Preservation
163 Cross Highway – Excellence in Ongoing Care and Maintenance
21 Danbury Avenue – Preservation
Traffic and Safety Update Session slated for Thursday Night
First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker reminds the public that the Town will host a Traffic and Safety Update Session on Thursday, April 27, 2023 at 7:00 PM in the Town Hall Auditorium. The purpose will be to update the public on progress on the Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Summary Report, as well as to allow additional discussion and input from residents about traffic and safety concerns they may have in their neighborhoods.
Included in this discussion will be employees who are experienced in traffic management, knowledgeable of roadway conditions, engineering, and possible speed calming solutions, as well as the regulations and oversight authority of the Town.
All interested residents are encouraged to attend. They will have the opportunity to express concerns and gain knowledge about what steps may be feasible or are already in progress to help manage and mitigate traffic and safety issues. An additional meeting will be scheduled in the fall.
Morning Weather Report
Today
Sunny, with a high near 67. Light east wind increasing to 5 to 9 mph in the morning.
Tonight
Patchy drizzle and fog after 11pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 49. East wind around 10 mph.
Tomorrow
A 30 percent chance of showers after 2pm. Cloudy, with a high near 67. East wind 10 to 14 mph.
Tomorrow Night
A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 8pm. Low around 52. Southeast wind 13 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Greenwich Police Department Scholarship Fund Looking for Cars, Bikes for May Car Show
ReleaseBack by popular demand! Registration is now open for the 2nd Greenwich Police Department Scholarship Fund 2023 Benefit Car Show, held on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at Town Hall, 101 Field Point Rd., Greenwich, CT, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. (Rain date: May 20, 2023) Admission is free to spectators and will include classic, antique, custom, and exotic cars, motorcycles, and vintage fire trucks.
The Greenwich Police Department Scholarship Fund invites car owners to sign up for early-bird pre-registration before May 13. As space is limited, vehicles will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. The registration cost is $20 per vehicle. If you would like to show your vehicle or motorcycle, please register at:
https://www.gpdscholarshipfund.org/gpdsf-car-show
Car clubs are welcome. Same-day registration will be accepted at the entrance if space allows at $25 per vehicle. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Greenwich Police Department Scholarship Fund.
The family-fun event will include a DJ, a 50/50 drawing, food trucks, and more. Sponsorship opportunities start at just $50 and also includes $125 as a Trophy Sponsor and $250 to participate as an on-site sponsor. Automobile dealership opportunities begin at $500, which includes on-site participation and a vehicle to display on-site as well. Sponsors to date include Greenwich Magazine and Cadillac of Greenwich.
"We are proud that the Town of Greenwich Police Department has a long-standing reputation of supporting our Officers and their families," said Chief of Police James Heavey. "The Scholarship Fund recognizes the achievements of qualified and deserving students of Greenwich Police Officers while honoring the dedication of the Officers themselves. I can't think of a better way for the public to thank Greenwich Officers for their commitment to our community."
The Greenwich Police Department's Scholarship Fund, a non-profit 501 (c) (3), grants financial assistance to the children of active Greenwich Police Officers who qualify by ability and character for undergraduate studies.
For more information or if you would like to become a sponsor, please call (203) 622.7884 or go to https://www.gpdscholarshipfund.org
About the Greenwich Police Department's Scholarship Fund
The Greenwich Police Department is asking for the community's support of the Greenwich Police Department's Scholarship Fund. Every contribution, however big or small, is so valuable for the future of our children. The Greenwich Police Department Scholarship Fund, incorporated in December of 1962, was granted tax-exempt status under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code in November 1963. To donate,http://bit.ly/GPDSFdonate
In 1963, three scholarships were awarded, which represented 80% of the fund's available resources at that time. Now almost 60 years later, there are approximately 20 applicants each year, supporting both college boarders and half scholarships to college commuters. They must be enrolled as full-time students and maintain an academic GPA of 2.75 or better.
The fund is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of four individuals whose roles in the community ensure the Board's self-perpetuation. These individuals are the Chief of Police, the Greenwich High School Headmaster, a Town Attorney, and a highly reputable and concerned volunteer from Greenwich's business community. The Office of the Chief of Police is responsible for the day-to-day administration of its activities. Scholarship awards, however, are awarded after review and a vote by the Board.
Morning Weather Report
Today
Mostly sunny, with a high near 66. Calm wind becoming south 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight
Mostly clear, with a low around 48. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tomorrow
Sunny, with a high near 71. Light east wind increasing to 5 to 9 mph in the morning.
Tomorrow Night
Patchy drizzle after 2am. Increasing clouds, with a low around 49. East wind 7 to 10 mph.
Norwalk Police Rescue Two from Grounded Sailboat off of Compo Beach
The Norwalk Police Department reported that they rescued two men from a sail boat that ran aground today. The boat struck the rocks of Compo Beach in Westport early in the afternoon, with the boat remaining as the two were brought to shore by the Marine Unit. Officers reported “strong wind and conditions” but no injuries. Photos contributed by Norwalk Police Department.
MoCA Westport Cocktails and Conversations Series Announced
Ameen Mokdad. Contributed photo.MoCA [Museum of Contemporary Art] Westport announces its Spring 2023 Cocktails and Conversation series on select Thursday evenings at the Museum.
The Cocktails and Conversation series is designed to present relevant and compelling speakers within the context of MoCA’s current exhibition. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to explore the exhibition and to purchase a drink or specialty cocktail prepared by The Cup Bearer.
MoCA Westport is currently showcasing Rainbow in the Dark, a solo exhibition featuring the works of German contemporary artist Anselm Reyle curated by Emann Odufu, on view through May 28, 2023.
“We’re excited about the momentum our Cocktails and Conversation series is experiencing,” noted Liz Leggett, MoCA Westport’s Director of Exhibitions. “The response from the community has been very strong and we look forward to continuing to provide a forum for these visual and performing arts discussions.”
Upcoming Cocktails and Conversation event are as follows:
Thursday, April 20 at 6 PM: Artist Talk Featuring Robert Chaplin
Artist Robert Chaplin’s talk will include a storytime performance and touch on the importance of artistic license, creative synthesis, and notions of copyright, all without the benefit of AI. The conversation will include images from his divergent practice, and a few physical samples. The event will be moderated by artist and entrepreneur Sandra Botnen. MoCA Westport thanks The Union House for their generous funding of this event.
Thursday, April 27 at 6 PM: Creativity and Climate Action
Join MoCA for an introduction to The Carbon Almanac and a conversation between four Bridgeport artists— kHyal, Karl Heine, Finoula Breen-Ryan, and Richard Killeaney—focusing on working toward a better world. See the projects they’ve created and how they are connected. Participate in a lively Q&A and learn how you can get involved.
Attendees will also have an opportunity to purchase selected products created by the participating artists, including sustainably produced custom notebooks, luxury handbags, totes and accessories crafted from post-consumer leathers.
Thursday, May 4 at 5 PM: The Wellness of Style With Gayle Perry, moderated by Marysol Castro*
Join MoCA for a discussion about The Wellness of Style featuring Gayle Perry, a stylist and content creator whose philosophy is to break style barriers, enabling every woman or man no matter body type, budget, or age to feel their best and do great things. Broadcast journalist Marysol Castro will guide a dynamic conversation with Gayle, exploring the noise that our clothes and spaces create for us, either positive or negative, and advise on how to enhance the positive.
The event will also include 15-minute style sessions; sign-ups are available on a limited basis. Event hosted by JL ROCKS, DEVON WOODHILL, and WEST.
*Special event timing and pricing will apply
Thursday, May 11 at 6 PM: Ameen Mokdad
Engage in conversation with Ameen Mokdad, an Iraqi multi-instrumentalist, who will also be performing in concert at MoCA Westport on Friday, May 12.
Mokdad will speak about Iraqi musical traditions and their lineage throughout history, including the attempted eradication of these traditions by extremist groups. He will speak from his own personal experiences as a musician in the cities of Mosul and Baghdad during ISIS occupation.
Thursday, May 18 at 6 PM: Rainbow in the Dark Curator Talk accompanied by NYC-based Punk band Darling
Don’t miss a conversation with Emann Odufu, the curator of Rainbow in the Dark, followed by a 30-minute concert by rock band Darling, as they play their new album! Newark, NJ-based Odufu is an art activist, independent filmmaker, producer, screenwriter and digital media specialist. He is best known for his work that explores the genre of Afro-Futurism within black cinema.
Thursday, May 25 at 6 PM: Barbara Sallick of Waterworks and Shari Lebowitz of Bespoke Designs
Join MoCA for a special Cocktails and Conversation focused on female entrepreneurship, home design trends, and the blending of function and style. The conversation features Barbara Sallick of Waterworks and Shari Lebowitz of Bespoke Designs, moderated by Jen Berniker, content creator and founder of Designport.
The majority of events are free for MoCA Members and $10 for non-members; pricing will vary for special events as noted on the Museum’s website. Advance event registration on mocawestport.org is requested. For more information on Cocktails and Conversation events, visit mocawestport.org or call 203/222-7070.
“MTA Announces Record Pandemic-Era Ridership on Metro-North Railroad”
MTA: The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced Metro-North Railroad reached record pandemic-era ridership yesterday, April 18, with 194,549 riders, or 74% of the pre-pandemic average.
"Record ridership means more and more people are realizing that commuter rail is the fastest and most efficient way to travel,” said Metro-North Railroad President and Long Island Rail Road Interim President Catherine Rinaldi. “Our riders can count on public transit to get them to work, school, and everything the region has to offer this summer.”
The milestone comes as the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) has exceeded 200,000 riders on 16 days since Feb. 27, a threshold the railroad had only crossed twice during the first 57 days of 2023. During the seven days between April 9 and April 15, the LIRR carried an average of 168,726 daily customers, the best seven-day average since March 2020.
Metro-North and the LIRR rolled out fare offerings including a 10 percent discount for monthly passes, and a 20-trip ticket tailored for the hybrid work schedule. The 20-trip ticket saves riders 20 percent on regular peak one-way fares. For rail riders traveling within the five boroughs, the City Ticket offers a reduced, flat fare of $5.00 for rail travel within New York City during off-peak hours on weekdays and on weekends. The new joint Metro-North LIRR Combo Ticket encourages regional travel between Metro-North and Long Island stations via Grand Central for only $8 more than the customer’s ticket to New York City.
Fire Department: Tire Strikes Car on I-95, “shearing off” Car’s Roof
Press ReleaseWestport Fire Companies from Saugatuck Station 4 and Headquarters responded to a reported motor vehicle crash on Interstate 95 south between exits 17 and 16 at 3:11am. Engine 4 arrived and found a single vehicle accident in the left lane. Engine 4 reported the occupant was trapped and would require extrication. Companies utilized extrication equipment to free the trapped occupant. Westport EMS transported the occupant to an area hospital with unknown injuries.
CT State Police determined that an errant tire from an unknown vehicle had struck the moving car, shearing off most of the car’s roof. The accident is under investigation by the CT State Police.
Chamber of Commerce Announces First Citizen Award Recipients
Press ReleaseThe Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Charlie Haberstroh, Founder and CEO of CastleKeep Investment Advisors, and Bill Harmer, Executive Director of the Westport Library will be this year’s First Citizen Award recipients. This is the return of the First Citizen Award gala dinner since the pandemic.
“We have selected a fine and admirable mix of awardees this year,” said Matthew Mandell, Executive Director of the Chamber. “Each year the board looks for one nonprofit and one traditional businessperson and these dedicated individuals stood out and represent what is best in our town for their work ethic, generosity and how they approach business.”
“It is a distinct honor to be recognized by a community that has given my family so much since we moved here in 1990. Whether it's long nights on the baseball fields, picturesque sunsets at Compo Beach or digging out of the sand hazards at the Longshore golf course, I cherish the many memories and experiences in Westport,” said Charlie Haberstroh. Since I founded my investment advisory firm in 2000, I've also had the privilege of giving back to the community through public service. I was inspired to do so by my wife and by Bill Meyer who also inspired many who continue to serve Westport.”
“I am deeply humbled and moved by this recognition by my friends at the Chamber of Commerce for frankly doing work that I absolutely love and am extremely passionate about,” said Bill Harmer. “Thanks also to my staff and our Board of Trustees who consistently support our vision and allow me to be a part of this magnificent place we call Westport and the Westport Library.”
The keynote speaker this year will be Richard Blumenthal, Senior U.S. Senator from the State of Connecticut, having previously served as the State’s Attorney General.
Also receiving awards will be four “Young Entrepreneurs,” Marley Brown, Akhila Kooma, Addison Moore and Jamie Semaya seniors from Weston and Staples High Schools, for their efforts in creating new and intriguing business ventures.
“What a wonderful group of innovative kids, they truly embody the entrepreneurial spirit,” said Barbara Reynolds Chairman of the Board of the Chamber. “They have executed at a higher level and deserve these accolades. Congratulations to all.”
The gala dinner is to be held on Thursday June 8th at Branson Hall. Tickets for the evening, including cocktail hour, dinner and presentations are available through the chamber and cost $125 per person. Tables of 10 are also available. Congratulations in the commemorative book are also available for purchase. Information can be found at