Today’s CT United motorcycle ride — honoring the victims and first responders of 9/11 — roars up Riverside Avenue today. The ride began at Sherwood Island State Park, and continued through 7 towns to Bridgeport. (Photo/Marion Pietrowski)
“06880” readers did not “knead” to think long about last week’s Photo Challenge.
The image of a sign saying “Saugatuck” was indeed at Kneads, the bakery, café and “mill” in the heart of that historic neighborhood.
If we gave out prizes, there would be free croissants and cappuccinos for Marc Frankel, John McKinney, Helen Appleby, Brian Taylor, Wendy Schaefer, Robin Jaffee Frank, Seth Schachter, Sal Liccione and Ida B. Lowe.
But we don’t. So “congratulations!” will have to suffice.
Today’s Photo Challenge might be tough. We’ve learned never to underestimate our readers, though.
If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.
(Photo/Wendy Crowther)
(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
But other areas of Connecticut’s first state park are getting attention.
Yesterday, a large excavator dug up a huge pile of dirt, and loaded it into dump trucks. That’s in addition to work on the approach to the main gates, and new wooden guardrails on the posts installed this summer, and plenty of weed whacking and mowing.
Besides what’s left of the former mountain of dirt off the West Beach’s newly paved parking lot, there are just a few things left to finish (like striping the perimeter of the East Beach parking lot).
Work seems to have ramped up in preparation of Governor Lamont’s visit on September 10, for Connecticut’s annual 9/11 memorial ceremony. It’s held the Thursday before the tragic anniversary, to allow families and friends to attend the event in New York City on that date.
The state park is also the starting point for this Sunday’s CT United motorcycle rally, a tribute to the victims and first responders of 9/11.
The 9/11 memorial at Sherwood Island State Park.
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Westport Eyecare offers this timely back-to-school information: 1 in 4 children have a vision issue big enough to affect how they learn.
And a basic screening catches less than 4% of what a comprehensive exam checks.
A couple of examples:
A Weston 8-year-old who “couldn’t stay focused”: A mother brought her son along to her own eye appointment. On a whim, the staff ran a 2-minute test on his 3D/stereo vision. He failed it. One eye was significantly farsighted. Without intervention, that would have led to a lazy eye. He was already falling behind in reading, and a vision screening would not have picked that up.
A Staples High School junior was frustrated studying for SATs. He kept losing focus during the reading sections. Everyone thought it was typical teenage fatigue. He actually had convergence insufficiency — his eyes were not working together to hold his focus for long-term reading. A pair of glasses with a small amount of prism fixed the issue entirely.
Neither of these students or parents realized there was a vision problem. Issues like tracking, focusing and eye-teaming are easily mistaken for attention struggles, lack of effort, or a child who just “doesn’t like to read.”
The start of school is a great time to check on a student’s vision. A comprehensive exam looks far beyond screenings to evaluate eye tracking, teamwork, focusing power, eye pressure and overall eye health.
Also at Compo Beach yesterday, a few hours later: David Squires showed off Compo, to an out-of-town guest.
It was a gorgeous evening — including a vintage VW bus near the bout launch, complete with awning and lights.
(Photo/David Squires)
Then, the Squireses and their friend headed to Longshore.
They toured the total makeover, and were very impressed. The “stunning results” included the entry into the ballroom.
The stage has been relocated to the side. The result: a spectacular view, all the way to the water. “Truly an all-pro move,” David says. “The large deck in back is money too. Bravo!”
Finally, David notes, “the La Plage meal was terrific. The joint was jumpin’.
“We are sooo lucky to live where we live. It never gets old!”
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The Artists Collective of Westport’s next show debuts September 9, with a reception (6 to 8 p.m.) at the Westport Country Playhouse barn.
The show runs from September 10-13 (12 to 4 p.m.), with an artist talk at 2 p.m. on the 13th.
Among the 12 artists: Jeanine Esposito.
The longtime Westporter will show a new series: “The Nest Project.” All 11 works were created with natural nests, found in the wild. Each was a gift to Jeanine, by others.
The work explores states, transitions and chapters of life, and invites interaction from viewers.
With another show coming up, Jeanine is looking for more abandoned nests. They can be brought to the opening reception or artist talk. Or email contact@beechwoodarts.org, and she’ll pick it up.
Last night’s Levitt Pavilion concert starring Billy & the Showmen was sold out.
In more ways than one.
(Photo/Judith Katz)
This week’s schedule includes Mihali (full band show, with Mr. Mota; Friday, 4:30 p.m.), an Hollywood Nights: The Bob Seger Experience (Saturday, 7 p.m.).
Between its sloping floor, river view, frequently flooded parking lot and basic but down home menu, “the Duck” never pretended to be anything other than what it was: Westport’s favorite (okay, only) dive bar.
One view of the Black Duck … (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
For decades, the former barge — which always seems ready to sink, yet somehow remains afloat — never changed.
… and another. (Photo/John Videler for VidelerPhotography)
But the age of AI is here.
And it’s everywhere. Including the Duck.
Last weekend, longtime Westporter Scott Smith, his son Cole Prowitt-Smith and Cole’s girlfriend headed to Saugatuck.
She’s from out of town. Cole wanted to show her a genuine Westport landmark.
They sat outside, on the covered deck. As Scott enjoyed the classic view of the Saugatuck River under the I-95 bridge — with action at the boat ramp across the water, and listening to trains rumbling past — Cole showed him the menu.
It was a new design. Scott says, “perhaps I wouldn’t have picked up on it. But since Cole is a Gen Zer working in New York, and very much involved with AI, he pointed out some glaring absurdities with the photos on the cover.”
Black Duck menu. (Photo/Scott Smith)
As he looked closely, Scott saw that every image was “a horrid example of the AI-enshittification of our commerce and culture.”
The small second floor had been transformed into something grand. Ditto the bar.
The outdoor deck had umbrellas, like Longshore.
The sun was setting — to the north! — across what looked like a wide bay.
And, Scott wondered, What happened to I-95?!
The sun sets to the north, across an impossibly wide Saugatuck River. And why, Scott asks, is one couple sitting oddly behind the backs of others?
“The Black Duck has its own beauty and history, right down to the slanted floorboards,” Scott says. “How anyone could sign off on this faux design is beyond me.
“Truth in advertising may no longer be a thing. But how do you square this AI-feverish depiction when you’re sitting in the real Duck?
“You have to laugh. But it’s not really funny.”
(“06880” regularly covers Westport’s restaurant scene — in all its forms. If you enjoy this, or any other features on “06880,” please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Beginning with Westport’s connection with our sister city of Lyman, our town has followed Ukraine’s war against its Russian invaders closely.
On September 11 (7 a.m., Green’s Farms Congregational Church), the Westport Sunrise Rotary hosts a rare public presentation by 3 senior Ukrainian leaders, responsible for governing communities on the front lines of the full-scale fighting.
Marshall Mayer — the Westport native who co-founded Ukraine Aid International, the non-profit that delivers direct aid, and facilitated both the Westport-Lyman sister city relationship, and the sister state partnership between Connecticut and Donetsk — will join the officials. UAI brought this delegation — which includes the Donetsk oblast governor – to the US.
“Most Americans experience this war through headlines,” Mayer says.
“This is a rare opportunity to meet the people making the important decisions, to hear firsthand what is happening on the ground. and better understand what is at stake for Ukraine and the world.”
Today we report that he’ll be honored at the Norwalk Art Space’s 5th anniversary bash.
Through his support of the café in the dynamic East Avenue space, the Westport-based restaurateur and chef has helped its mission of providing free art and music education to under-served students, and exhibition opportunities for under-represented artists.
The Art Space Café is a favorite of gallery visitors, artists and students. It offers an “all-day breakfast” and lunch menu with daily specials, house-made pastries and a full coffee bar. it also highlights local culinary artisans and their products.
In addition, Taibe is launching a food program for Norwalk Art Space students call “Fueling Creativity.” In collaboration with the Westport Farmers’ Market, the café will provide after-school meals once a week for Norwalk Art Space students, many of whom face food insecurities.
Arts Bash 2026 will include music, cocktails, and gourmet bites, exhibits and a live auction. For more information and tickets, click here.
Bill Taibe and his Norwalk Art Space Café staff.
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Talk about a long prep time!
Last December, “06880” announced the arrival of SoHo Pizza. The sign boasted, “Made in New York City.”
A day earlier, we noted that Frank Pepe’s Pizza — the historic New Haven restaurant — was headed to Post Road West.
Pepe’s opened June 1. They’ve been here nearly 4 months, and are thriving.
SoHo?
Crickets.
A reader writes: “It’s taking a really long time for this crew to make a slice. In the meantime, the boarded-up building is an eyesore.
“Not to mention they tore down the iconic Texaco sign.”
Not to mention, they’ve had months to fix the misspelling on their sign, and never did:
But, hey! Maybe we shouldn’t wait. They may not be opening at all.
I mean, they’re not “coming” here. Just “comming.”
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Think the assessment on your motor vehicle is too high?
The Board of Assessment Appeals meets on September 8 (6 to 7 p.m., Town Hall lobby).
They’ll hear appeals for the 2025 Grand List. You must bring the vehicle you’re appealing. (Not all the way inside, obviously).
We have no idea what Briggs Cunningham’s C-3 Cabriolet — which he designed himself, seen here at his former Beachside Avenue home — was assessed at in the 1950s. Nor what the assessment is today. We’re guessing a lot: Only 36 were ever built.
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Lizzy & the Triggermen brought their “vintage music for modern times” to the Levitt Pavilion last night. A large crowd enjoyed what NPR calls “one part Eartha Kitt, one part Ella Fitzgerald, one part Amy Winehouse.”
Tonight (7:30 p.m.; free), Billy & the Showmen take the stage. Their R&B, funk, soul and Motown repertoire includes James Brown, Percy Sledge, the Ohio Players, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Marvin Gaye, Wilson Pickett, Tower of Power, Buddy Miles, Kool & the Gang, Otis Redding, the Temptations and Sam & Dave.
Eloise Semmelmeyer Peterson died peacefully at her Westport home on May 19. She was 95.
She graduated early from Washington University in St. Louis in 1953, with a BS in marketing. Eloise married John Semmelmeyer III in 1956. They settled in Westport in 1965, and raised 3 children here.
Following John’s death in 1974, Eloise eventually found love again with Robert “Pete” Peterson. They lived in Denver and Palm Springs, California. She donated her time to charitable causes. After Pete’s death she returned to Westport in 2007.
She enjoyed music, theater and opera, and in her younger years enjoyed tennis and skiing. She went ziplining in Alaska at age 80.
In the 1970s Eloise began recycling, and was strongly inspired by the feminist movement. She became a vegetarian in her 80s because of her concerns about factory farming. Throughout her life, she remained engaged in social and political issues. In her later years she described herself as “an armchair activist,” working for liberal and progressive causes.
She said that her “happiest decade” was her 80s, which she attributed to her newfound sense of gratitude.
In her last years Eloise shared a loving relationship with William Hart. She is survived by her children, Kristen, Erik and Jana; son-in-law Tom Ward; daughter-in-law Elizabeth Chambliss, and grandchildren Chris Ward, Micheline Ward, Emma Becker Ward (Rachel), Max Ward, Lucy Semmelmeyer, Jane Semmelmeyer, Johana Semmelmeyer and Ryan Cyprian.
Eloise was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport for more than 60 years. Following a private burial, a celebration of her life will be held there on October 3 (12 p.m.).
In lieu of flowers or donations, Eloise asked people to take themselves out to dinner, and have a wonderful time.
Eloise Semmelmeyer Peterson
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Lee Feldman calls today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo “Rose in the Rain.”
Fortunately, there’s no rain in the weekend forecast.
Today will be sunny, with a high 0f 78. Tomorrow: partly cloudy, high of 82.
And finally … on this date in 1885, the first heavyweight boxing title fight under Marquis of Queensberry rules was held.
(From Westport to Norwalk, Ukraine — and everywhere else — “06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
It’s appropriate for this online art gallery — #333 — to welcome 3 new artists.
They join some familiar faces. All are welcome!
Remember: This is your feature. No matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we want your submissions. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, mixed media, digital, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — we want whatever you’ve got.
Just email a JPG to 06880blog@gmail.com. And please include the medium you’re working in.
“Counterpart” (Nancy Breakstone — photograph (Available for purchase; click here)
“Teagan and Nova” — acrylic on canvas (Missy Greenberg)
Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)
“The Sunrise and Summit” (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)
“Heartfelt Feelings” — impasto vinyl paint acrylic (Dorothy Robertshaw — Available for purchase; click here)
Untitled (June Rose Whittaker — Available for purchase; click here)
“EEBosch Abstract in Blues and Yellows” — watercolor (Eric Bosch)
Natural seashells with oil paint, watercolor and other paint mediums (Leslie Yellin)
Untitled (John Maloney)
“Sailing on the Horizon” (Anne Leskow)
Photographer Mike Hibbard says, “Buddha’s hat or crown of heads symbolizes the ability to see, understand, and help beings in all directions.”
“Compo Beach by Drone” — watercolor and pencil (Steve Stein)
“I’ll Be a Monkey’s Uncle” (Martin Ripchick)
“A Narrow Escape” (Lawrence Weisman)
(Entrance is free to our online art gallery –as it has been for 6 years. But please consider an anniversary donation! Just click here — and thank you!)
You’ve probably seen him. He’s the mini Goldendoodle who rides (with goggles, in a doggie backpack) on Rocco Palmieri’s red Vespa. His favorite spot is Compo Beach.
Frank and Rocco.
Hundreds of people have taken photos of the pair. Many say that seeing them together is the highlight of the day.
Rocco — yes, he’s part of the longtime Westport family of Palmieri Nursery fame — attributes Frank’s popularity to his fluffy looks, sweet personality, and “human soul. He’s like a little teddy bear.”
Rocco’s children — a freshman son at Staples, and daughters at Bedford Middle and Greens Farms Elementary — started an Instagram account for Frank. (Click here to see; follow @frank_fhe_doodle.)
Screenshot of Frank’s Instagram page.
His 200 followers enjoy seeing him riding all over town, modeling cute outfits, wagging his tail, sticking his tongue out, romping in the snow — and of course, at the beach.
The next time you see Frank (and Rocco), say hi. Take a photo.
And of course, you’ll smile the rest of the day.
(“06880” tackles some of Westport’s heaviest topics — and some of the lightest. If you enjoy our wide range of stories and features, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Another Little League season has ended. Boys and girls have put away their baseball and softball gloves. No one thinks twice about who is playing.
Fifty years ago — in America’s bicentennial year — things were quite different.
The other day, longtime Westporter and avid sports volunteer Jeff Mitchell unearthed a fascinating story from the Westport News. It involved Little League baseball — then celebrating its 25th year in town — and its relatively new softball program.
Written by the News‘ (very) young sports editor, Dan Woog, it described a forgotten chapter in local sports history.
Westport won the Senior League softball state championship, qualifying for the New England tournament in Vermont.
But the threat of legal action — and violence — took center stage.
Westport included boys on the roster. It was legal. The Westporters preferred softball to baseball.
But no team had done it before.
Clockwise from top left: Steve Kane, Dale Call, Richard Frey.
The 2 teams Westport beat — Seymour and Durham — protested that Westport had used illegal players.
The national Little League asked Westport to not compete. They decided that Seymour and Durham would play each other, to determine Connecticut’s representative.
Westport officials pointed out that the national office, in denying the protests of the defeated teams that Westport had used illegal (male) players, specifically stated that Westport won the state title.
Still, Westport’s board of directors feared that the safety of their players could not be guaranteed in Vermont. They withdrew from further competition.
Woog wrote in the Westport News:
Franny DeLuca, manager of the beleaguered co-ed softball team (dubbed a “unisex” squad by the New York Times), received a telegram from C.J. Hale, the national president of Little League Baseball, Inc.
Hale acknowledged that “the Westport Senior League softball team is recognized as 1976 state champions.” But “because of the importance of having a Connecticut entry in the New England tournament, the runner-up will be the Connecticut entry.” This acknowledgement that Westport was, and would remain, the official Constitution State champ mollified the Westporters.
Westport Little League chairman Don Levy sent a telegram to his counterpart in Seymour, extending “our sincerest best wishes for success in future tournament play” in Vermont, following Seymour’s win over Durham.
But controversy continued. The paper reported:
The entire matter is not yet settled. Several letters have come to the Westport News, and many phone calls have been made. All of them contained an outpouring of emotion rare in a case as seemingly minor as this.
One woman, the parent of a Senior all-star, wrote “I am the mother of a son, which I am beginning to believe is a dirty word.” She had heard adults in Durham say, “what do you expect from Westport parents? They’re all alcoholics, so how can they possibly know the sex of their children?”
She continued, “I was one of the parents who voted against going to Vermont. I did not feel we were quitters. I am proud of my son and of all the kids on the team who took that garbage (verbal abuse), but I could not go and neither could my husband. I was afraid.
For the record, the state champion Westport squad included Patty DeLuca, Karen Sidell, Jane Waltrip, Patty Constantikes, David Karlin, Mark Landis, Todd Fauske, Richard Frey, Doug Bernstein, Steve Kane, Dale Call and Jason France.
Manager Franny DeLuca was assisted by coaches Peter Coddington and Garry Vannart.
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