Westport Garden Club Celebrates 100 Years Of The Beauty Of Flowers
Westport Garden Club's Show on Saturday, "Westport's Town Treasure" was certainly just exactly that. A TREASURE!
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The Westport Garden Club’s 100th Anniversary Flower Show: “Westport’s Town Treasures” filled Hoskins Hall at Saugatuck Congregational Church with color on Saturday. Close to 300 visitors reveled in the beauty that filled the hall during the day. The show was the club’s first official NGC (National Garden Clubs) sanctioned show in nineteen years. Members attended the NGC Flower Show School for two years to prepare for Chairing the show, featuring exhibits in horticulture, floral design, photography and education. The Club had traditionally held a flower show every two years and had long hoped to revive the program.
Photos above, clockwise from top left: Some of the beautiful Dahlias on the main table greet visitors. Top Right photo: (L. to R.) Westport Garden Club members Nathalie Fonteyne, Joanne Heller, Kelle Ruden and President Megan Lott with the original artwork designed for the show’s program by Westporter Kerstin Rao. Bottom left: Jane Howard of Fairfield with her prize winning Giant Dahlia. Bottom right, an arrangement alongside two of the books published on Westport including one by the New Yorker.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
A special award, created by the Westport Garden Club as a “People’s Choice Award,” was determined by attendee ballot at the show and went to Peggy Townsend of the Garden Club of Newtown for her design incorporating a vegetable.
Above photo: (L. to R.) Westport Garden Club President Megan Lott, WGC People’s Choice Award winner Peggy Townsend, Kara McKenna Wong and Kelle Ruden, Show co-chairs.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The Club chose the show’s theme “Westport Town Treasures” to celebrate and honor the community. Four of Westport’s notable environmental groups provided the educational exhibits, highlighting how each has enhanced Westport’s Pollinator Pathway, established in April 2019: Aspetuck Land Trust, Earthplace, Friends of Sherwood Island and the Town of Westport Conservation Department.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
In the photography exhibits, provided by amateur photographers from around the state, each class honored a treasured local resource in its title and highlighted gardens, nature settings and pollinators. The show’s Botanical Arts Photography Award went to Kelle Ruden of the Westport Garden Club for her photograph of a monarch on milkweed at Sherwood Island State Park. This section was judged by Westport professional photographers Stacy Bass and John Videler along with Master Flower Show Judge Mary Ann Tyma.
The show’s program cover was designed to commemorate the event and honor the club’s history by former Westport Public School teacher and artist Kerstin Rao, (above, 4th photo from left) who offered limited edition tea towels and notecards at the show, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the garden club. The design features a garden at Compo Beach that the club has maintained since 2007.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
More about the Westport Garden Club-
The club is among the nation’s oldest, and its founding member roster includes many names familiar to Westporters: Wakeman, Coley, Bradley, and Staples. Sara Crawford, Connecticut’s first female Secretary of State was an early member as was noted garden writer Helen Van Pelt Wilson. The club’s first project was the installation of a memory garden at Christ & Holy Trinity Church. In subsequent years, the club developed Grace K. Salmon Park, which had once been a dump site and organized residents to save Cockenoe Island from becoming a nuclear powerplant.
Further afield, the club supported the establishment of the Connecticut College Arboretum, the founding of the Connecticut State Federation of Garden Clubs (which now includes 113 clubs and over 6,000 members), the development of tree and shrub plantings along the Merritt Parkway. Today the club has 53 members, and their passion and mission remain the same: to further interest in and knowledge of gardening, horticulture, landscaping, and floral design; participate in civic beautification and promote conservation and environmental education. These days you may find members at work at the entrance to Compo Beach or visit the Nevada Hitchcock Garden at the corner of Cross Highway and Weston Road, Grace K. Salmon Park on Imperial Avenue, or Cam’s Garden in Old Hill on Winding Lane.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
For more information about the Westport Garden Club, visit: WestportGardenClub.org
Westoberfest - Food, Fun and Lots & Lots Of Great Beers
Westoberfest Craft Beer and Fall Festival made its return on Saturday, September 21st, marking its seventh year of celebration in downtown Westport. The event ran from 2 to 5 PM, attracting beer enthusiasts with a wide array of over 50 local and regional beers. Attendees had the opportunity to sample a variety of styles including crisp lagers, bold IPAs, rich stouts, and refreshing non-alcoholic options, catering to diverse tastes. In addition to the beer offerings, live music contributed to the festive atmosphere, fostering community camaraderie among participants.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
WestoberFest offered an array of attractions beyond its remarkable selection of craft brews. Attendees indulged in a variety of culinary delights from local favorites, ensuring that there was something to please every palate. The atmosphere was further enlivened by live performances from One Bad Oyster, encouraging guests to dance and enjoy the vibrant sounds.
The beer tasting tables had lots of visitors getting an education as well as quenching their thirst. Attendees included many families including journalist and anchor at NBC News and MSNBC, and Today Show co-anchor Craig Melvin and wife Lindsay Czarniak, an EMMY-Award winning sportscaster along with their two children and their handsome family dog.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Two separate areas adjacent to the beer festival were designated for family activities and on-site shopping. Families to to participate in a variety of activities, including face painting, hair tinsel application, pumpkin decorating, and flower crown making, ensuring an enjoyable experience for children of all ages. In addition to the family-friendly options, a selection of vendors were on-site, offering unique products and gifts for attendees to browse and purchase. Westoberfest had lots to offer everyone, making it a perfect destination for a fun-filled day. And not festival would be complete without some very nice looking dogs.
Westport’s Best Pumpkin Chunkers Rose To The Challenge
Pumpkin Chunkin' also took place on Saturday, attracting a diverse group of competitors eager to showcase their skills in pumpkin launching. Contestants included men, women and a few of eager children in hopes of achieving maximum distance with their pumpkins.
Above, Lonnie Quinn, CBS News Weather Anchor and a proud Westport resident, emceed the event, energizing the crowd with his lively commentary. He gathered the contestants before the competition began, outlining the rules and sharing words of encouragement to help them get in the zone. Pumpkins flew through the air prompting cheers from spectators who applauded the contestant’s competitive spirit.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Contestants started off by being assigned a numbered pumpkin which was determined by young assistants pulling numbers from a jar. Then the competitors demonstrated their skill with a variety of styles of “chunkin”. The contestant above commited a “foot fault”, crossing the limiting line.
Despite a mighty heave, pumpkin number 13 was quite lucky and was not shattered upon hitting the target zone.
This competitor lost the “handle” on her toss, and although the rules allowed just one attempt, she was given a Mulligan and did much better.
Pumpkins were at the ready before the start of the big event.
The kids had a chance to fling their pumpkins as well, giving it an enthusiastic try. Lonnie Quinn gave it a shot as well after the competition had finished.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Above left, Don Sheldon puts his back in to it so to speak. Center, Lonnie raises the hand of the runner-up, Alex Westwood, then the winner Don Sheldon who is holding his basket of goodies.
Above, the excited spectators found a great viewing spot to watch the big contest.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
One Bad Oyster got the crowd fired up with their high energy performance.
A couple of festival attendees took up the challenge of a game of Jenga, which for some reason, did not last too long.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Westport Fire Department To The Rescue
Early Morning Truck Crash Requires Extrication And Hospitalization
A crash on Roseville Rd. at 6:15 Am today required multiple units from Westport Fire and EMS
Contributed Photos By Westport Fire Department
WFD Press Release:
Westport firefighters were dispatched to a report of a motor vehicle crash involving two trucks. Dispatch advised responding units that one occupant was trapped inside one of the vehicles and there was a truck was rolled over. The initial fire dispatch was Engine 2, Rescue 3, and the Shift Commander. Engine 6 was added based on the report of extrication.
Car 3 arrived and reported a utility truck with heavy front-end damage and one occupant trapped inside with an active diesel leak and a roll-off truck with heavy damage on its side. Due to the diesel leak, a protective hose line was deployed. Engine 5 was special called for additional manpower. Firefighters stabilized the vehicle in place and used battery-operated rescue tools to extricate the trapped occupant in under 10 minutes. At the same, time other firefighters worked to stabilize the roll-off truck. A total of five occupants from both vehicles were evaluated by WEMS, with three being transported to the hospital.
CT DEEP was contacted due to the diesel spill and responded to oversee the cleanup. Westport PD remained on scene throughout the incident to investigate and assist with traffic control. The last fire department unit cleared the scene at 10:27 AM. Roseville Road remained closed for approximately six hours during the incident and cleanup.
Scavengers From Redding Descend On Westport
You may have spotted these colorfully clad girls running all over town on Sunday. They were not making a dry run for Halloween. They are actually members of Redding’s Joel Barlow Girls Volleyball team who were on a scavenger hunt as part of a team building excercise. They have been doing this in Westport for at least five years. We were told that there were nearly 2 pages of tasks which the girls were challenged to accomplish. Who don’t know for sure who won but we’re confident they had lots of fun together.Scavengers From Redding Descend On Westport.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com
Tiger Tamers: Wreckers Rout Ridgefield
The State Champion Wreckers, who were ranked 7th in last weeks Sports Illustrated CT Coaches rankings and 4th on the MaxPreps list, met the Tigers who are in a rebuilding year with a 13 game win streak and breezed past Ridgefield 35-7 with both a high octane offense and a highly motivated defense. Top left: Junior QB Nick Weil puts the ball in the air to Shane Sandrew (top, right) wide receiver, for one of the senior’s two touchdown receptions. Bottom left: the stifling defense allowed only one Ridgefield score in the first period, and junior wide receiver Justin Halky celebrates one of his two touchdown receptions on the heels of his 102 yard reception performance.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
QB Nick Weil was on fire passing for 279 yards completing 21 of 29 attempts, and kept the defense on their toes by scrambling for another 48 yards with 7 carries, a record for the junior. The defensive wall which held the Tigers to a single score and standout senior Jack Stoler picked off two Ridgefield passes paving the way for Weil to connect with Sandrew who also set a record gaining 143 yards on 12 receptions.
Staples opened the scoring late in the first quarter and the Tigers answered early in the second for their only touchdown of the game. Staples found the end zone two more times including less than a minute before the halftime break, with a TD by senior Kody Goldman.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Senior running back Jarett Deluca receives medical attention for a leg injury and fortunately was able to walk off the field. Two enthusiastic fans showed some of their own athleticism in the stands, smiling broadly as they watched their team’s spectacular performance on the field.
The Staples Cheerleaders didn't let the sparse Wreckers crowd stop them from bringing the energy to counter the large Ridgefield crowd.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Wreckers cheerleaders as usual showed they got game as well.
The Staples faithful showed their delight as they watched their team dominate it's opponents.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Ridgefield Cheer & Dance Dazzles
The Tigers may not have been firing on all cylinders against the Wreckers, however the halftime performance by the Ridgefield Cheerleaders and Varsity Dance Team was something special.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
With excellent athleticism and challenging stunts, the Ridgefield Cheerleaders got the crowd on their feet and cheering. Their training and hard work was readily apparent, with their flyers soaring into the air and even doing flips.
The Dance team showed their high level of skill, executing complex choreography with precision, focus and top-notch showmanship, all with great smiles.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Westport Police Respond To Wrecker’s Wrestlers Car Wash
After the success of last year’s Car Wash fundraiser the Staples Wrestling Team returned last week to the Shell Gas Station and convenience market at 322 Post Road at the invitation of owner Raja Ali. Many of the team, and some freshmen members-to-be came ready to work.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Parking enforcement agent Angel Colon was on shift and passing by decided it would be a great opportunity to help out the boys and get his vehicle thoroughly cleaned.
Agent Colon watches as the Wreckers and a hard-working Wrecker Dad give his car the VIP treatment and he provided a generous contribution to the team for their efforts. Colon returned to his duties with one of the cleanest cars in town.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The boys worked as hard attracting “customers” as they did at washing the many vehicles who stopped by. Even a couple of parents tried to drive some traffic into the Shell station, albeit with a hastily created sign which was not quite up to the attention grabbing visuals the boys had created for the event.
The Staples Wrestling teams have had a proud history of community service worthy of their competitive athletic results. Our amazing community responded in kind with generous donations which the team will use for such things as scholarships, equipment and other necessities beyond what the school can provide. The event was by all measures an overwhelming success. The team wished to convey special thanks to all who came by!
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Slice Of Saugatuck - Simply Scrumptious!
Saugatuck become the epicenter of Westport’s restaurant scene on Saturday when one of our town’s premier neighborhoods hosted the annual Slice Of Saugatuck after it was postponed from It’s original date, last Saturday due to bad weather.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
In addition to being able to taste some delicious samples from Saugatuck’s finest eateries, there were multiple live bands playing throughout the event, from The Little Pub parking lot on Riverside, to Bridge Square, the center of the festivities, to Railroad St. which was converted into a pedestrian zone.
(Photos, clockwise) Hungry attendees waited patiently for the offering at The Bridge at Saugatuck, newly opened at the site of the famous Mansion Clamhouse and most recently Parker Mansion. Another happy diner enjoyed fine Peruvian fare from Lomito on Saugatuck Ave. Great Italian was offered by Maria Funicello and her staff served up delicious tastes of Italy from Tutti’s, a Saugatuck institution for more than 20 years operated by Maria and her husband Pasquale. One of several bands kept the energy up and the party hopping.
The line for the Bridge at Saugatuck indicated the great samples that awaited diners at the front of the line.
Crowds packed Bridge Square and purchased their tickets and Rizzutos offered the kids not one but TWO bounce houses to take a break between bites. Two more bounce houses were on site elsewhere at the Slice.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The historic Saugatuck Firehouse is a must-visit stop for kids who have the chance to climb aboard a working fire truck, get a "fire-helmet", take photos and see the inside of the fire house.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Row one above shows kids dancing to the band playing at the plaza between The Whelk and Momu ice cream. Next, the line at Lomito is always long as attendees await their delicious, generous offering (center). Bill Rizzuto offers their signature Ceviché and the very creative Crab Meat Arancini (rice balls), made with both white and black rice and served with their Cajun Remoulade. The restaurateur estimates they will provide more than 800 samples of their dishes. At far right, a mom and her kids enjoy some treats from Dunkin Donuts.
Bottom row: The popular Kawa Ni had a long line as well as guests sampled their tasty cuisine. Bands all over inspired some to work their dance magic.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Japan Meets Westport At Jesup Green
The audience watches intently as New York Taiko Aiko Kai drumming shows their skills in this Japanese traditional art form which dates back thousands of years.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Each year for the last 18 years, with a one year exception for COVID, the Japan Society of Fairfield County, a non-profit membership organization comprised of people who are interested in Japan and Japanese culture has held a Fall Festival on Jesup Green in Westport. Last Sunday the sights and sounds of Japan were on full display to hundreds of visitors who who treated to a variety of Japanese traditions going back in some cases, hundreds of years and beyond.
The first presentation was the spectacular Taiko drumming by New York Taiko Aiko Kai, who’s pounding rhythms and dramatic showmanship captivated the audience. The function of Taiko has varied throughout history, ranging from communication, military action, theatrical accompaniment, religious ceremony and concert performances.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Mr. Tomoe Sato of the Consulate General of Japan's New York office speaks to the audience at the start of the event.
First Selectwoman Jen Tooker (left) speaks to the crowd about Westport’s involvement with this event through the years. JSFC President Jackie Alexander (center) describes the activities of the day and both join Mr. Tomoe Sato for a quick photo.
A traditional Bon Odori Festival is usually held in July or August, however the event was moved to September a few years ago, technically this is too late to hold a traditional Japanese Bon Odori Festival so the event was renamed a Japanese Fall Festival but we still included Bon Odori activities.
Attendees are invited to don the summer yukata kimono and join the Bon odori dances. The women leading the instruction of the dances are from the BondanNYC group.
Five Bon Odori dances were performed, led by BondanNYC. They included Tanko Bushi, coal miner’s song from the Kyushu area. The Hanagasa Ondo, or “hat dance” from Yamagata, Awa Odori, from Tokushima Prefecture in Shikoku, A-I-U-E-Ondo and Tokyo Ondo, from Tokyo.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Sensei Robert Brody owner and chief instructor of Aikido Of Norwalk readies his students to begin a demonstration of the traditional Japanese martial art of Aikido.
The crowd enthusiastically enjoyed the students as they demonstrated Aikido, a unique martial art that emphasizes peaceful conflict resolution by harmonizing with an opponent’s energy and redirecting their attack. Unlike Karate, which focuses on strikes, Aikido shares more similarities with Judo, as it involves joint locks and throws to neutralize an attack.
This portion of the event featured several dedicated students, including Brian Lasher, who helped Brody showcase a dynamic bokken (wooden sword) demonstration called Kumitachi. Other students included Dylan Saurawal, who skillfully performed ukemi (falling techniques), Jeff Tang and who practiced in preparation for his Shodan (black belt). Elizabeth Shields and Katherine Gunya also participated, demonstrating techniques as blue and yellow belt students, respectively. Additionally, Kia Starn led a seated meditation, or seiza, a regular practice at the dojo to cultivate focus and inner peace.
The large crowd was kept busy with several performances to enjoy and several vendors to visit.
Dancers formed a circle to join instructors in performing several of the Bon Odori dances. They also enjoyed the opportunity for selfies with famous Japanese cultural icons like Hello Kitty and Pikachu, the electric-type mouse and the mascot of the Pokémon franchise.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The audience was treated to “Balloon Plays” by Noriko “Emma” Oshiro. Ms. Oshiro translated a Japanese folktale into English to create her balloon play. She narrates the story and creates the costuming/balloon characters. Her “actors” move about or use the balloon characters according to the narrator’s story. This year there were two plays; The Story of Obon and the Water Lanterns, and The Story of the Signs of the Zodiac.
There was a Japanese Marketplace with several booths and tables where vendors offered a variety of Japanese products, art and crafts including handmade hats, pottery, Tengui Art, Origami and crystal and stone Jewelry and so much more.
Taiko drumming by New York Taiko Aiko Kai gave several performances, bringing their high energy show again as the afternoon progressed.
SEPTEMBER 11, 2001: ATTACK On Our Nation
On Sunday, hundreds of bikers gathered at Westport’s Sherwood Island State Park for the annual CT United Ride, Connecticut’s largest 9/11 tribute which marked it’s 23rd year this year. The event has been held as a memorial to honor the fallen heroes who tragically lost their lives as result of the worst terrorist attack in U.S. history.
Photos by J.C. Martin for WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
SOURCE: Wikipedia, Casualties of the September 11 attacks
2,606 people were in the World Trade Center and on the ground perished as a result of the attacks and the subsequent collapse of the towers.
2,192 civilians (including eight EMTs and paramedics from private hospital units)
343 members of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY)
71 law enforcement officers including 23 members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD)
37 members of the Port Authority Police Department (PAPD)
1 fire marshal of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) who had sworn law enforcement powers (and was also among the 343 FDNY members killed)
1 member of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
1 member of the New York Fire Patrol (FPNY)
1 member of the United States Secret Service (USSS).This included a bomb-sniffing dog named Sirius.
92 passengers and crew of American Airlines Flight 11 were killed.
65 people aboard United Airlines Flight 175 were killed.
64 people aboard American Airlines Flight 77 were killed.
44 people aboard United Airlines Flight 93 were killed.
The attack on the World Trade Center's North Tower alone made the September 11 attacks the deadliest act of terrorism in human history
Year after year these motorcycle riders from all over the tri-state area gather for a 60 mile run throughout much of Fairfield County, beginning in Westport and continuing through Wilton, Georgetown, Redding, Bethel, Newtown, Monroe, Trumbull, and Fairfield, before arriving at Seaside Park in Bridgeport at about 2:00 PM where they gathered for a lunch provided by ride sponsors including Vazzy's restaurants.
Entrance ramps on I-95 at the Sherwood Isle connector were closed to allow the long procession to safely enter the highway, which can take more than 1/2 an hour.
Riders were encouraged to wear their red, white and blue and they needed no encouragement. The beauty of the American Flag was on full display and this day they perhaps displayed an extra level of beauty as they waved proudly on bike after bike, with some almost as large as the motorcycle upon which they flew. At right, Westport’s Motorcycle Unit which escorted the ride along with several other town units included Corporal Bergamo, Officer Carr, Officer Hall and Officer Thompson.
Photos by J.C. Martin for WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Riders gather for the opening ceremony as founder and executive director Keith Garrity introduced local officials to offer their comments.
Connecticut Firefighters Bagpipes entered before the podium to start the ceremony with an emotional rendition of Amazing Grace.
Photos by J.C. Martin for WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The program began with opening ceremonies at about 10:30 AM with the Pledge of Allegiance which was followed by the National Anthem dramatically performed by Jodi Keogan of Westport, (bottom, right) classically trained in performing opera and oratorio, and who also sings Broadway, pop, and music from the Great American Songbook.
Then, Fire Fighter Sean Kelly (bottom, right) rang a fire bell 11 times in honor of the fallen. Spectators next heard remarks given by Founder and Executive Director Fred Garrity Jr, who has said that the event is “for those that lost their lives, for those that gave their lives, and for those that continue to put their lives on the line each day — that’s why we ride.” Fred has devoted hundreds and hundreds of hours over the years putting together an event which can only be described as an epic undertaking
Following remarks by executive director Garrity, government officials including U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (top, right), Congressman Jim Himes (bottom, left) Westport First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, State Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff and Lou DiMici, Secretary, Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters Of America, of CT along with Treasurer Steve Michalovic to his left.
Before heading over to their bikes, riders listen to the comments of the speakers, phones in hand memorializing the moments, with many showing the emotion of the day. There was frequent applause as they listened to each speaker. There are smiles in some of these photos but the mood of the day prior to the start of the ride has always been very somber. Everyone in attendance carries some very strong memories of that horrific day and the days that followed.
Below are photos of just some of the more than 1,000 riders who paid $30. each to be a part of this historic annual event. Funds are used to help support organizations which help first responders and their families.
Photos by J.C. Martin for WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Photos by J.C. Martin for WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
A few of the dedicated volunteers who help keep everything on track.
Executive Director Fred Garrity takes a minute for a photograph with the motorcycle patrol officers who will lead the procession on their 60 mile journey which will be seen by an estimated 20,000 onlookers who have learned over the years to stake out a great spot to witness the beauty and the sound which can take nearly 1/2 an hour to pass them by.
Finally, the moment arrives and normally tranquil Sherwood Island roars to life as more than 1,300 powerful motorcycles fire up and begin their journey lead by mortorcycle units from Westport and several of the other area towns.
Superintendent: “In moments like these, words just fall short. “
From Westport Public Schools Superintendent Thomas Scarice: “Good evening,
I truly don't know how to start this message. These are among the hardest messages to deliver and process as both a father and a member of the WPS community. Tonight, as I embrace and say goodnight to my 16 year old son, my mind will be miles away.
I am deeply saddened to inform you that one of our students, Staples High School Senior Max Harper, tragically passed away in a motor vehicle accident this afternoon. This loss is heartbreaking for our school and extended community, and I know many of you, along with our students, will feel its impact in the days ahead.
In moments like these, words just fall short. But what we can offer is our unwavering support to those affected by this tragedy, beginning with Max’s family. Please come together during this difficult time—lean on one another and extend compassion to those who are grieving.
In order to ensure that our faculty and staff are fully prepared to appropriately receive our students tomorrow, Staples High School will operate on a two hour delay. All other schools will open at their normal times. The entire faculty will come together, grieve, and be provided guidance and language on how to support our students when they arrive, when they see them in Connections, and also throughout the day.
For any students needing support prior to the opening school, the Staples counseling staff will be available to provide support to individuals and small groups of students.
Staples Principal, Stafford Thomas, will send a follow up email this evening to the Staples families and staff outlining the plans for the day, beginning with the early morning support, and the measures put in place to support students.
All athletic games will be canceled tomorrow but teams will be permitted to meet for light practices or team meetings in order to provide students a place to be with one another after school.
Finally, as you say goodnight to your children, remember this moment and how precious our time together truly is.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Thomas Scarice
Superintendent of Schools
Westport Public Schools”