Yesterday, an “06880” reader asked about the status of the Cross Highway bridge replacement project.
Timing is everything. Two hours later, Department of Public Works director Larry Roberts announced the launch of a Monthly Project Update.
It’s designed to keep residents informed about municipal infrastructure and construction projects. Beginning now, it’s available on the town website,
Each update will include the name and location of projects, a brief scope of work, the current status, and the anticipated completion date.
Other projects underway include Compo Road South sidewalks and Compo marina seawall replacement (estimated completion, this fall), Sherwood Mill Pond tide gates (November), and Compo marina pier replacement (spring 2027).
Questions about any current or upcoming project? Call DPW: 203-341-1120.
So about Cross Highway: It’s still scheduled to be completed “prior to the start of the school year.”
This is the bridge that’s being replaced.
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Every year, the Levitt Pavilion offers 50-plus nights of free entertainment.
But it relies on several paid-ticketed events to keep the (stage) lights on.
A few of those shows are upcoming. The biggest: Bonnie Raitt (next Sunday, August 9).
Coming soon:
- The Revivalists, with Olivia Barnes (August 11)
- The Machine performs Pink Floyd (August 21)
- Andy Frasco & the UN and Kitchen Dwellers, with Magoo
- Charlie Hall’s Get Up With It: Miles Davis Centennial (August 24)
- Mihali: Full bnd show, with Mr. Mota (September 4)
- Hollywood Nights: Bob Seger Experience (September 5)
Click here for more information, and tickets.
Bonnie Raitt
Meanwhile, there are plenty of free shows too.
Tuesday (August 4, 7 p.m.): The Joy Clark Trio. Her debut album, “Tell It to the Wind,” marks Clark’s arrival on the national stage as a proud, queer Black woman. She blends the social consciousness of folk, the rhythms of southeast Louisiana, and the soul-centered music she grew up with.
Wednesday (August 5. 7 p.m.): Children’s Series, with Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winner Flor Bromley.
Thursday (August 6, 7:30 p.m.): Homage to the “Days Between*” with The Red Planet and special guest Crispin Cioe — the Westport saxophonist who played on “Love Shack,” and has recorded and toured with the Rolling Stones, James Brown, Ray Charles, the B-52s, Robert Plant, Solomon Burke, Joe Cocker, Debbie Harry and Aretha Franklin. *The “Days Between” is the 9-day period from August 1 to 9, marking the birth and death of Jerry Garcia.
Friday (August 7, 7:30 p.m.): The Devon Gilfillian Time Will Tell tour. Devon’s music ranges from neo-soul and R&B to funk and rock. Devon recently appeared at the Newport Folk Festival.
Other free August shows include breakout band Improvement Movement with Memo, Christine Ohlman (aka the Beehive Queen), Logical Pretzel (the music of Steely Dan), pop classical stars the String Queens,. Lizzy & the Triggerman (swing) and Broadway and American Songbook favorite Frank Mastrone & Friends. Click here for details, and more information.
Free shows at the Levitt Pavilion.
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Speaking of entertainment: Congratulations, Daniel Planas!
Last Thursday during the weekly Jazz at the Post show at VFW Post 399, the young saxophonist from Stratford received the Jazz Society of Fairfield County’s Micky Golomb Scholarship. He is a rising sophomore, studying music at the University of Connecticut.
Created to honor the memory of a local saxophonist, educator and regular attendee of the Jazz Society’s Thursday performances, the scholarship is awarded to students pursuing a career in jazz performance, composition and/or jazz education. It is based on musicianship, determined by a jury of professional jazz educators.
In addition to the receiving the $5000 award, Daniel joined an all-star group of jazz musicians at last week’s Thursday night Latin Jazz show. He played with Michael Mossman, professor of jazz studies at Queens College and Julliard, Cuban pianist Luis Perdono, 6- time Grammy winner Vince Cherico, Alex “Apolo” Ayala, Carly Moldanado, and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
Daniel Planas (left) and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” wall, at VFW Post 399.
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A new networking tradition began last week at Zucca Gastrobar.
Business owners, executives, entrepreneurs and local leaders joined at the debut of the Executive Networking Series. The initiative strengthens business relationships, while introducing local companies to nonprofit organizations throughout Fairfield County.
It was created through a partnership between VTB Financial and Prestige Cabinetry & Design LLC
The first event featured Operation Hope and the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club. Representatives from both groups highlighted the impact their programs have across the region.
A generous donation was presented to Operation Hope by Dushi Marble & Granite. The next Executive Networking Series will be announced soon. For more information, email anna.b@PCDTeam.com.
Executive Networking Series at Zucca. (Photo/Sylvia Janik Photography)
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It’s not a race.
But Amtrak’s Acela led Metro-North’s New Haven line train yesterday around noon, at the Westport station.
(Photo copyright/DinkinESH Fotografix)
Plus, the long-distance one looks a lot cooler.
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Local resident Peter Mossa died on July 25. He was 58.
His family calls Peter “the kind of person who could brighten any room simply by walking into it. He had a true sparkle, infectious enthusiasm, and a gift for making everyone feel like a friend. He never cared much for formalities — you were far more likely to find him in shorts, a t-shirt and barefoot than dressed up.”
He enjoyed his family, spending time with friends, sharing stories, making people laugh, snowboarding, snowmobiling and celebrating the holidays at his parents’ home in Vermont. Summers were spent on his boat, fishing or tying up with friends to barbecue.
Peter was also a gifted craftsman, whose skill and attention to detail left a lasting mark on countless homes and the lives of those who live in them. His strong work ethic, integrity and dedication earned the respect of everyone.
His family says, “For many years, Peter battled clinical depression. He sought treatment, held onto hope, and never stopped trying to find healing. Though his illness ultimately claimed his life, it never defined the man he was. Peter is deeply loved, and his loss leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Peter is survived by his wife Arlene; children Haley and Max; parents Joseph and Deanna; siblings Susan Young (Larry), Joe Jr. (Luisa) and Katie Carmody (Josh); in-laws Wendy Jacobsen (Stephen); several nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends,
His family says, “For those who knew Peter, please remember his laughter and sense of humor, his compassion, his strong loyalty, and his unending love for family and friends. While our hearts are shattered, we find comfort in knowing he is now at peace. We’re forever grateful for the joy he brought into our world and the love he shared so freely.
The family encourages anyone struggling with depression or mental illness to reach out for help (everwellct.org), keep talking, and hold onto hope. Peter’s story is a reminder that mental illness can affect anyone- and is an illness —not a weakness—and that every life is precious.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Pete’s name to your local Humane Society, animal shelter or your favorite charity organization.
Peter’s memorial aervice will be held August 6 (11 a.m., Norfield Congregational Church, Weston). Casual Florida attire is encouraged.
Peter Mossa
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Mark Mathias provides today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, with this note:
“After last week’s storm overflowed Deadman Broo between Winslow Park and Saugatuck cemetery, the marshy parts did what they were supposed to do and absorbed much of the overflow.
“The moisture also brought to life this beautiful fungus/mushroom/whatever (I’m not a botanist) that I trust will remain while the ground stays moist.”
(Photo/Mark Mathias)
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And finally … Vicki Wickham was not a household name. But she was “a behind-the-scenes force in popular music who helped oversee the influential British television showcase ‘Ready Steady Go!'” and managed artists including Labelle and the singer Dusty Springfield.
She died Friday in the Bronx, at 87. Click here for a full obituary.
(If you’ve ever discovered a great show — or other event — here, well, that’s our job. We do it 24/7/365. But we can’t do it without your support. Please click here to thank us with a donation! Thank you!)
If the train pic had been taken in Europe, the one on the right would be just a blur.