When Westport’s new assistant town attorney begins work in June, she won’t need a lesson in local government.
Candice Savin is a familiar face. From 2021-25, she was our 3rd selectwoman. Before that she served on the Board of Education, including 2 years as chair.
Savin is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University, and earned a law degree at Duke University.
She has been a board member at The Conservative Synagogue and the Westport chapter of Hadassah. Since 2012, she has co-chaired the Westport Library’s “Booked for the Evening” fundraiser.
“Affordability” — a hot topic nationally these days — is the theme of this year’s 10th annual Westport Woman’s Club Art Show.
Sixteen local artists — with works curated by Miggs Burroughs — are on display Thursday, April 23 (4 to 7 p.m.), and Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26 (2 to 5 p.m.).
Burroughs says that by featuring smaller, original works across an array of styles and media, the show offers buyers affordable, local pieces.
Artists include Robin Babbin, John Bygott, Bonnie Edelman, Susan Fehlinger, Hernan Garcia, Rachel Hall, Elisa Keogh, Shelley Lowenstein, Paula Morgan, Larry Morse, Jon Puzzuoli, Butch Quick, Jodi Rabinowitz, Cindy Wagner and Tammy Winser.
Guest artist Sean Keating will show work in the drawing room, where small works donated by the participating artists as chance prizes will be on display.
This year’s show honors the memory of Jo Fuchs Luscombe. The former WWC president — who also served as state representative, 3rd selectwoman and Zoning Board of Appeals chair — died last year.
The opening reception (April 23) features Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Mark Naftalin, playing on the Woman’s Club piano.
Net proceeds benefit local community service organizations, and need-based scholarships.
To see a PDF catalogue (including measurements, media and prices) before the show, email DorothyECurran@aol.com; put “Art Show Catalogue” in the header.
================================================
The “Career Coach” will be in the Westport Library parking lot this Thursday (April 9), for a session on “Computer Basics.”
It returns May 21, covering “Tips for Resume & Cover Letter,” and June 19 (Intro to Excel).
There are 2 sessions ( 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) each day; both are 2 hours long. Registrants can choose one.
The service is available to people who are exploring career opportunities, actively looking for a job, or seeking additional part-time employment. Click here to reserve a spot.
Speaking of the Library: Staples Players’ first-ever collaboration with that institution — a staged reading of the whimsical, funny and poignant show “Almost, Maine” — drew a large crowd last night.
And because this was both Players and the Library — neither of whom do things halfway — it ended with a Q-and-A led by playwright John Cariani.
Playwright John Cariani (standing), Staples Players co-director David Roth, and the cast of “Almost, Maine.” (Photo/Susan Garment)
Uni K Wax is opening its first Connecticut location in Playhouse Square tomorrow (Wednesday) — and “06880” readers can snag a deal.
The studio — with all-natural ingredients and “elevated hygiene practices, including individual wax warmers for every service” — offers 50% off their first wax, to anyone using the code 06880Blog.
Click here or follow on Instagram for information about services, opening offers, and memberships.
Wax treat.
================================================
Jazz vocalist Alma Micic first came to Jazz at the Post as part of her guitarist husband Rale Micic’s ensemble. She rocked it.
This Thursday (April 9, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7), she returns — and shares the stage with him.
The life of Adé Van Duyn — the artist, educator and longtime Westporter who died in October at 98 –will be celebrated this Saturday (April 11, 11 a.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Amnesty International.
Adé Van Duyn.
================================================
Tidal flats are ready to burst out with spring colors, in today’s brown-but-not-for-long “Westport … Naturally” photo.
And finally … on this date in 1862, the Union Army defeated the Confederates near Shiloh, Tennessee.
(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We depend on donations from readers like you. If you enjoy our 24/7/365 coverage of all things Westport, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
As Earth Day (April 22) nears, Sustainable Westport asks: “Can you imagine what our planet could look like if we got it right?”
They answer their own question: “Less congestion and cleaner air, with communities that are more interconnected because towns are walkable and bikeable. Shorelines and waterways that are free from discarded plastic and waste. Native trees and plants supporting pollinators and clean water supporting vibrant ecosystems for generations to come.
“It’s a hopeful vision, and one that feels entirely possible when communities come together starting first with small, meaningful changes.
“At the heart of this vision is a simple, powerful truth: We are all guardians of this planet. This stewardship isn’t reserved for scientists or policymakers; it is a responsibility carried by every one of us. Each person in our community holds a vital piece of the puzzle, and the picture of a sustainable Westport is only possible when all of us are present and engaged.
During Earth Month, Sustainable Westport is re-emphasizing their commitment to reducing single-use plastic. They ask residents to watch an important video (click here) — and then participate and lead, by sharing the message, encouraging neighbors, and turning individual efforts into a community movement.
Also upcoming: a screening of “Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics.”
The documentary explores the alarming spread of microplastics throughout our planet — and our bodies.
The event — following a sold-out showing at SXSW — is Thursday (April 9, 6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy). A panel discussion follows the screening.
The Board of Finance’s next “office hours” — open times at which residents can chat with a member about questions or concerns — are Thursday, April 16.
There are 2 sessions — 10 to 11 a.m., and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. — at the Westport Library’s Room 213.
The events have proved popular, with a broad range of Westporters asking an equally broad range of questions.
Speaking to 175 Y’s Men of Westport and Weston at Saugatuck Congregational Church on Thursday, Dr. Kenneth Pollack said that the war with Iran has become a grinding war of attrition with no easy exit for the United States.
A former CIA analyst and National Security Council official, Pollack is now vice president for policy at the Middle East Institute. He warned that forced regime change in Tehran is a dangerous gamble, and said Washington has “run out of good options,” leaving only bad choices as it struggles to end the conflict, reopen vital oil shipping lanes, and find a strategy President Trump can use to ease domestic economic pain while pressuring Iran’s hard‑line leadership to back down.
Looking ahead, Pollack said much of the world’s economic fate now hinges on whether the U.S. is willing to do the politically difficult work needed to pry open the Strait of Hormuz and blunt Iran’s regional influence. That could mean inserting limited ground forces to secure shipping lanes and potentially striking at Iranian allies such as Hezbollah, steps he called militarily feasible but politically fraught.
Until then, he warned, shortages of oil, liquefied natural gas and critical materials like fertilizers and helium will deepen, increasing the risk of a global recession and leaving Iran’s hard‑liners in position to keep exploiting their “chokehold” on the world economy.
Y’s Men member Peter Pollack (left) introduces his son, Dr. Kenneth M. Pollack. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
Karen Schlansky — an abstract painter working in acrylic, oil, pastel and mixed media — is this month’s guest exhibitor. The local artist is displaying paintings from her recent “Books” series.
A reception is set for April 23 (6 p.m.). All work is available for purchase.
Karen Schlansky, with her work.
=================================================
Speaking of art: As the nation’s 250th birthday nears, the Weston Commission for the Arts seeks submissions that explore America’s past, present and future.
The “Weston Celebrates America 250” exhibit (July 3 to 31) will complement July 4th activities like a patriotic tailgating contest, bell ringing ceremony, old- fashioned family sports/field day and picnic, and fireworks.
Also planned during the month-long exhibit: art classes for children and adults, and a meet the artists reception July. Click here for details.
=================================================
This Thursday (April 9, 7 p.m.), MoCA\CT celebrates National Poetry Month bt transforming its galleries into a performance space.
Norwalk-based spoken word artist Sahmra Sawyer (Supreme Divinity) will perform original poetry inspired by “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — the museum’s current exhibit — while live jazz plays in the background.
As the performance unfolds, Bridgeport artist Lauren Clayton will create a large-scale painting — translating spoken word and sound into a visual work in real time.
29 Markle CT will provide an “elevated take on soul food.”
A wayward son moves home to care for his mother, and discovers chaos he never knew he needed.
That’s the premise behind “Sorry for Laughing.” The new solo play by Evan Zes, about caring for his mother during COVID, is part of the Westport Country Playhouse’s New Works Initiative. celebrating new works and new playwrights.
Westport’s first “pickleball ambassador,” Tom Lowrie, sent this along, with Easter and Passover greetings from himself and his successor, current ambassador Brandon Osterhout.
We don’t know who’s who in the photo, but it doesn’t matter. Enjoy the weekend!
Happy Easter! Welcome to the start of the baseball season! It’s spring!
Those are some of the themes in today’s online art gallery.
Along with, as always, other works that are harder to categorize, but sure to delight, provoke and inspire all who wander through.
As always, we invite you to be part of next week’s exhibition. No matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we welcome 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.
“Longshore Marina” (Patricia McMahon; Available for purchase; click here)
“Old Mill Plein Air” (Werner Liepolt)
“Stacked for the Season” (Nancy Breakstone; Available for purchase; click here)
“Sea Shell From Compo” (John Maloney)
“Auntie’s Patch of Heaven” — acrylic on canvas, 20 x 24 (Gert; Available for purchase; click here)
“Watercolor is a Swim in the Unknown: Jean Burman” (Duane Cohen; Available for purchase; click here)
Untitled (Tom Doran — Available for purchase; click here)
“A Hot Wheels Pizza” — wall art (Eric Bosch)
“The Kindness Project” (Owen Wang, age 13 — One River Art student)
In Your Easter bonnet – Gown, and Sparkling Necklace – You’ll Be the Grandest Lady in the Easter Parade! (Mike Hibbard)
“The Saddest Day in Baseball History — Remembering Lou Gehrig, the Iron Horse” — watercolor (Steve Stein)
“My Friend Kelso” (Lawrence Weisman)
“Presidential Portrait” (Mark Yurkiw; Available for purchase; click here)
(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!)
The Longshore golf course and driving range open for the season this Friday (April 3).
That’s good news. Even better: There’s a new reservation system, new carts, enhancements to communication, and continued course improvements.
The ForeUp reservation service will provide a more user-friendly interface for booking and managing tee times.
Booking begins tomorrow (Thursday, 6:30 a.m.). Tee time booking windows remain 5 days in advance, starting at 6:30 a.m.
Golfers should check their email for a message from ForeUp, with details on setting up an online booking account. That includes a credit card, as no-show fees will be enforced.
Also new: electric lithium-ion Club Car carts. They’re equipped with GPS technology, allowing golfers to have distances available on the course.
A new phone system will be introduced too, to cut down on the general information phone calls going into the pro shop. The website remains the most easily accessible place for info on pricing, tee times, instruction and more.
Westport residents wishing to purchase or renew a golf handpass can do it online or at the Parks & Recreation office in Longshore (weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
Almost open! (Dave Dellinger)
=================================================
The Westport Police Department has joined a statewide distracted driving enforcement campaign, and public awareness initiative.
Both run all month, as part of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
Law enforcement agencies across Connecticut will ramp up distracted driving enforcement efforts. The focus is on identifying and citing drivers who text, use electronic handheld devices, or otherwise divert their attention from the road.
In 2023 alone, 5,202 crashes involving distracted driving resulted in 12 fatalities and 78 serious injuries.
Tips to avoid distracted driving:
• Pull over safely if you need to text or make a call.
• Ask a passenger to manage navigation or messages.
• Avoid checking social media while driving.
• Limit interaction with in-vehicle technology. Program
navigation or music before starting your trip.
• Use your phone’s “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature, or
silence notifications to reduce the temptation to check your device.
Yesterday, Westport Police Officer Bernie Kelley assisted Westport Animal Control Officer Peter Reid in the rescue of a baby great horned owl at Longshore.
The bird was transported to Wildlife in Crisis for treatment of a small wound. If re-nesting proves feasible, it will be attempted. Residents interested in contributing towards the owlet’s care — or that of many other locally rescued and abandoned wildlife can click here.
Officer Bernie Kelley with owlet.
Last Thursday, Westport Police Officer Daniel Lovallo responded to a roaming dog near I-95. The rottweiler was transported to Westport Animal Control, and received Westport Animal Shelter Advocates-funded care the next day.
She has been named Dottie, and is loved by the Westport Animal Control officers and WASA volunteers. No microchip was located and no owner has claimed her, so she is available for adoption. If interested, call WASA (203-557-0361), or email wasa1@optonline.net.
WASA will help with veterinary care. Residents interested in donating to that cause can click here.
The Jazz Society of Fairfield County presents the wildly popular “Jazz at the Post” series. Every Thursday night, they bring musicians — some internationally famous — to VFW Post 399, for 2 great shows. The price is low; the talent level very, very high.
But Jazz FC does much more. Among their projects: outreach and scholarships.
To fund those endeavors, they’re sponsoring a “Jazz Cruise by the Saugatuck” (April 23, 6 to 10 p.m.). NOTE: It’s at the VFW, not actually on the river.
Congratulations to Harry McLaughlin and Eva Slossberg!
The Staples High School seniors were honored Monday, at the Connecticut Association of Schools’ 31st annual High School Arts Banquet.
Harry McLaughlin (visual arts) and Eva (music and theater) were selected by Staples faculty members for their outstanding achievement, dedication, and impact within their disciplines.
The evening included a keynote address about how the arts shape identity, give voice to personal expression and create lasting impact, and a performance by Rubyfruit, a University of Connecticut a cappella group that promotes women’s empowerment through music.
Congratulations too to Staples seniors Justin Halky, Ford Epstein, Patricio Garcia and Kai Schwartz.
The students in Stacey Delmhorst’s Financial Decision Making course placed 2nd at the Tuesday’s state finals of the National Personal Finance Challenge.
In the nationwide competition, student teams analyze case studies and respond to complex financial scenarios involving budgeting, saving, investing and managing risk.
From left: Ford Epstein, Patricio Garcia, Kai Schwartz, Justin Halky.
=================================================
Scott Brodie has lived in New York for decades.
But the 1970 Staples graduate grew up here. He visited his parents regularly; his mother Esther died less than a year ago, at 98.
So Scott was intrigued to read in yesterday’s Roundup that one of the homes the Historic District Commission will discuss on April 9, for a demolition permit, is 48 Burr Farms Road — a few houses down from the one his parents built in the 1950s.
He writes: “The house is one of about a dozen cookie-cutter split levels built by Norman Shapiro, who first developed the northern half of the road in the early 1950s.
“Over the years these have been either heavily modified, or torn down to make room for much larger houses. Indeed, #48 has been for many years pretty much the only one of these original houses in essentially its original state:
48 Burr Farms Road
“Only the few folks with long memories and a historically-trained eye can ‘see’ the bones of the original splits in the other, heavily-modified buildings. For example, here is #43:
43 Burr Farms Road
“The dormers, porch and front-facing gable are all add-ons. The original garage with flat ‘sun deck’ survives, but was made into living space, with a new garage added at far left.
” expect the Commission will find little or no historical value in #48 — perhaps the last of its kind. Thus, the end of an era.”
=================================================
Nearly 100 Westport Rotary Club members and guests gathered Tuesday, to honor Win Allen.
The longtime, 93-year-old Westporter was celebrated for his service to, and leadership of, the organization. Marty Helman, a Rotary International trustee, came from Maine for the event.
The ceremony included a performance by Diego Carniero, a Rotary International Peace Ambassador, and acclaimed Ecuadorean cellist.
Win Allen (2nd from left) with (from left) Marty Helman, Rotary International trustee; Rick Benson of Westport and Billy Roberts of Massachusetts, past district governors.
Westport Police made 5 custodial arrests between March 27 and 31.
A 29-year-old Manchester man as charged with larceny, burglary and criminal mischief, and conspiracy to commit those crimes, following an investigation into a September burglary at Westport Auto Repair. Two doors were pried open by suspects, who tried to steal the ATM but ultimately took 2 cash registers. They contained $1,000 in cash; damages were $4,800. He was held on a $50,000 bond.
A 28-year-old Bronx man was charged with larceny, after a complaint from Mike’s Factory Direct. After an online order for $33,136 worth of massage chairs was picked up by a man driving a U-Haul truck in November, the credit card company complained of fraud. The man was released on a $50,000 bond.
A 32-year-old Hamden man was charged with larceny, after 17 sets of tire and rim sets, worth over $30,000, were stolen in January from Maserati of Westport. He was released on a $50,000 bond.
A 54-year-old Middlebury man was charged with operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs, and failure to drive in the proper lane, after his vehicle struck one that was parked and unoccupied on River Lane. He was released on a $100 bond.
A 69-year-old Norwalk man was charged with disorderly conduct, after an early morning argument between 2 friends in a home about the quality of food being served turned physical. He was held on a $5,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 12 citations
Texting while driving: 8
Failure to renew registration: 8
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Tinted window glass violation: 2
Passing a standing school bus: 1
Speeding in a school zone: 1
Reckless driving: 1
Speeding: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Yogi Bear stars in today’s “Westport .. Naturally” photo.
His friend Cat Malkin said yesterday: “When I broke the news that we couldn’t walk on the beach today he replied, “Is this some kind of April Fool’s joke?’”
And finally … on this date in 1968, “2001: A Space Odyssey” premiered at the Uptown Theater in Washington.
(“06880” has been your window on Westport almost since 2001. We launched in 2009. Whether you’ve enjoyed us all along, or just found us yesterday: thanks. And please click here to support us!)
“06880” culture correspondent Robin Moyer Chung writes:
At VersoFest’s headline concert Friday night, Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer introduced Wyclef Jean to a packed Trefz Forum, saying, “What you’re experiencing here does not exist in any other public library in this country.”
I’d argue hardly anything exists like VersoFest in any institution at all.
Each year, the days-long music festival features performances, installations, business insights and author discussions that entertain, enlighten and engage.
It has also galvanized a unique community of renowned musicians, artists, industry professionals and journalists to support VersoFest in myriad ways. At any event you’ll see legendary recording artists, transformative business professionals, and Westport’s own media stars.
And of course Grammy-winning Wyclef Jean, the powerhouse recording artist/ writer/producer, and co-founder of the Fugees.
Imagine the library packed with 800 people dancing and hollering lyrics as though they were in a place that’s not a library.
Wyclef Jean (Photo/Jerri Graham Photography)
While expertly riffing through instruments and singing hits — both his (“Killing Me Softly With His Song,” “Maria Maria”) and covers (“Jump Around”) — Wyclef’s inexhaustible exuberance emitted some sort of particle hallucinogen that caused everyone to go nuts. Even those who had quietly saved seats on the “grandstand” could hardly resist the urge to stand up and go moderately nuts.
Toward the end Wyclef welcomed kids to climb on stage and rock out with him, proving both his multi-generational appeal and his being a great guy.
Fans of all ages loved Wyclef Jean. (Photo/Jerri Graham Photography)
Saturday offered a series of talks, culminating in a performance and discussion with David J. of Bauhaus.
The first was an interview with Claire Dederer on “Monsters, a Look at What to Do with Great Art by Bad People.” In part, her book questions how we can accept artistic works as important, even masterpieces, despite the the lascivious and sometimes criminal behavior of men who create them.
The discussion with the journalist Hilarie M. Sheets rambled for about 15 minutes before finally hitting on the subject: why the works of convicted or accused predators such as Woody Allen, Roman Polanski, Picasso and Hemingway are still considered creative diadems.
A tough question to tackle, especially in our current cancel culture. The once-acceptable masculinity of Picasso and Hemingway is now often viewed as toxic. However, the nascency and naiveté of then-emerging “mass marketing” overlooked their womanizing (or worse), and promulgated their brooding character as the ideal of manliness.
Does historical context disallow cancellation? Seemingly yes, but why? In the light of #MeToo it’s important to know what we’re seeing or hearing, and understand its context.
Next, a rock star who was definitely not a monster: Tom Petty. Adria, his daughter and a well-known rock music director and managing partner of Tom’s estate, spoke with Sam Hendel, a pioneer in the music industry.
Adria Petty chats with Sam Hendel. (Photo/Kerry Long)
Adria recounted little-known stories about her dad, such as his donating all of the revenue, in perpetuity, from his hit ‘90s Christmas song, “Christmas All Over Again” to Special Olympics. And during his concerts. audience members could submit song requests by writing them on a roll of butcher paper. The band honored every request.
At one point the discussion veered dangerously into a seminar sales pitch for “uber deluxe” packages of records and random souvenirs. A Petty superfan might find merit in this but, honestly, who can blame her? We’re all selling something.
She promptly re-engaged with us though, and continued telling humorous anecdotes about her famous father, making him less an icon and more a caring, quick-witted human being.
Lastly, a woman who defended herself against monsters, actress Gina Gershon, discussed her memoir “AlphaPussy” with former CNN anchor (and Westport resident) Alisyn Camerota.
I’m not crazy about the title. True, young Gina possessed a wherewithal that many women at her age and in her situation may not have had. But that doesn’t make her “alpha” and another “beta,” as the title “AlphaPussy” suggests. I was expecting a self-aggrandizing monologue.
Gina Gershon (left) and Alisyn Camerota.
I was wrong. Gina was entertaining, and had great rapport with Alisyn. She talked about meeting Prince when he considered casting her in “Purple Rain,” and sneaking into a cinema and stumbling onto a porn flick (she grew up in the “porn capital of the world.”)
Mostly though, I loved the questions from the audience. Women asked about inner strength and initiative, viewing Gina as a warrior in a minefield of sexual judgment and assumptions.
Capping off that evening was a performance and discussion with alt-rock superstar David J. He’s credited with “spearheading the post-punk alternative music scene of the early 1980s.”
His crowd was smaller, but passionate. David received a standing ovation as soon as he walked on stage.
David J.
He read stirring poems from his new book, “Rhapsody, Threnody & Prayer,” including a haunting one about meeting Kurt Cobain 2 years before his suicide. (Kurt was lying in a fetal position in his wife’s dressing room).
David then gave a heartfelt and energetic performance of a few of his popular songs, before speaking with author and documentarian Douglas Rushkoff.
Best of all, David attended almost all of VersoFest’s events over the weekend — and was impressed by every one of them.
(“06880” covers Westport’s cultural events of all kinds, plus much more. If you enjoy keeping up with all the action — before and after it happens — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Our look back at Staples Players’ past shows continues today, with the fall 2005 production of “Children of Eden.”
David Roth and Kerry Long directed the 1991 musical. Based on the Book of Genesis, it tells the stories of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, and Noah and the flood.
Longtime media teacher Jim Honeycutt created these “nutshells,” part of “06880”‘s continuing coverage of Players, yesterday and today.
He notes that some of actors in this show went on to bigger things.
Mia Gentile (Eve) starred on Broadway in “Kinky Boots.” She also made it onto “Good Morning America,” with hilarious Stanley Steemer ads.
Jacob Heimer (Adam) starred on Broadway in “Beautiful.” Adam Kaplan (Japheth) went on to star on Broadway too, in “A Bronx Tale.”
Drew Angus (Ham) is now a successful recording artist.
Yesterday’s announcement of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s “Your State, Your Business” event with Governor Ned Lamont (April 13, 11 a.m., Westport Library) did not include the registration link.
Saturday’s “Hero to Hero” event drew a large, passionate crowd to the Saugatuck Rowing Club.
“Hero” is a non-profit that help highly qualified military members transition to first responder careers. It’s a win-win-win — for the servicemembers, their employers, and the entire community.
Locally, 5 Westport Fire Department members are graduates of the program.
This weekend’s event raised awareness of “Hero to Hero” — and raised funds for an independent film, which will raise even more funds for the organization.
The “Blue Bunny” film project is led by Rita Marcocci, a Westport resident and award-winning producer. She says:
“Our community came together in a powerful way — united by purpose, storytelling, and a shared commitment to those who have served our country.
“The fundraiser was a reminder of what’s possible when community, creativity and compassion align. From heartfelt remarks by veterans to the overwhelming generosity in the room, and the passion behind Senator Blumenthal’s speech, the evening reflected the very mission we stand behind: supporting our veterans as they transition from active duty into meaningful roles as first responders, while using storytelling to shine a light on the realities of veteran mental health.
“For those who couldn’t attend, but believe in supporting our veterans and the mission of Hero To Hero as well as independent filmmaking that will hire veterans for on screen and behind the scenes roles, we invite you to donate. Great auction items are still available too. Click here to help.
Westport Fire Chief Nick Marsan (far right) and Deputy Chief Matt Cohen (far left) with (from left): Clayton Janssen (Navy), Cody Ruschmeyer (Army), Liam Chrzanowski (Marines) and Zach Oullette (Marines). Not pictured: Kyle Sanzo (Marines.)
=================================================
Everyone who has heard the Bedford Middle School Jazz Band knows they’re special.
Now music educators all over the state know too.
The group performed as a “showcase ensemble” for the Connecticut Music Educators Association All-State conference, at the Connecticut Convention Center.
Gregg Winters’ 25 student musicians’ set included “Front Burner,” “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “The Girl from Ipanema” and “On Broadway,” a mix of swing, Latin and contemporary styles. All students also performed improvised solos.
Bedford Middle School Jazz Band.
=================================================
This may be a first, in Staples’ long sports history:
For 3 consecutive years, a Manchester sibling served as captain of the Staples High School ski team.
And … all 3 received the Coaches’ Award at the end of their senior year, for their contributions to the program.
Congratulations, Logan (2024), Max (2025) and Ella (2026)!
PS: Their father, Jeff Manchester, earned plenty of awards too, as a Staples wrestler back in the day.
Three Manchesters: From left: Logan (now a sophomore at Bentley College), Ella (headed to the University of Colorado) and Max (Bentley freshman).
Speaking of teenagers: The Westport Senior Center is looking for high school students to volunteer in their Tech Hub on Thursdays (3 to 4:30 p.m.).
It’s a flexible opportunity. Weekly emails are sent to check availability.
This is a great chance for tech-savvy youngsters to show what they know — and give back to their community. Most probably have experience already, helping their grandparents (and parents).
For more information or to sign up, email Diana Andrews: dandrews@westportct.gov.
Tech help, at the Senior Center.
=================================================
The stairs from the Westport Library’s main entrance to the Riverwalk below have been in disrepair for a while.
The Riverwalk — stretching from the Taylor parking lot all the way behind the Levitt Pavilion, ending at Deadman Brook — is one of Westport’s hidden jewels.
Soon, we’ll have one more way to access it — again.
Melissa Newman — a longtime Westporter, and Jazz at the Post favorite — kicks off the series’ first-ever Voices of Spring festival, this Thursday (VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7).
And finally … on this date in 1930, the Motion Picture Production Code began. It imposed strict guidelines on sex, crime, religion and violence in film, until it was replaced in 1968 with 4 ratings: G(eneral), M(ature), R(estricted to under 16, unless accompanied by an adult) and X (no one under 16 admitted).
(There are no restrictions on “06880.” Anyone can read anything we post — and anyone can click here too, to support our work. Thank you for your patronage!)
A few hours before headlining last night’s VersoFest concert, Wyclef Jean was the special guest at Startup Westport’s first-ever daytime event.
The musician/rapper/composer/producer/entrepreneur/philanthropist spoke with 75 attendees at Saugatuck’s Content Studio about his journey from Haiti to Brooklyn; the teacher who encouraged him (and introduced him to Miles Davis); his father’s life as a pastor; influences ranging from Charlie Daniels to Bach, and Run-DMC to Shakespeare; shooting his “Carnival” video with Bob Dylan, and much more.
He spoke too about his 7 (!) upcoming albums. “These projects are all about discovery,” he said. “My best work is ahead of me.”
Wyclef Jean and Madeline Nelson, at Content Studio. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Jean supports ventures ranging from a Haitian robotics team and No Kid Hungry to Music Will, which brings music education to over a million students.
In lieu of a performance fee last night, the Westport Library made a substantial donation on Jean’s behalf to Music Will.
Jean was joined by Madeline Nelson of Heads Music, Sam Hendel of Chord Music Partners, Jared Heiman of Fandiem and Brooke Rascoff of Riot Games. They discussed the intersection of music, culture, and AI.
His evening show at the Westport Library was jam-packed, eclectic, and quintessentially Wyclef.
One view of the Trefz Forum audience … (Photo copyright Dinkin ESH Fotografix)
… and another … (Photo/Matthew Mandell)
… and the star. (Photos copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
VersoFest continues today and tomorrow, with workshops, panels, and special events. One of this afternoon’s highlights: a talk with Adria Petty, Tom Petty’s daughter.
The Staples High School student earned a national gold medal in the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards — one of the most prestigious recognitions for creative students in the country.
His photograph, “Rising in the Dawn: The Calm Before the Flight,” was selected from more than 335,000 submissions nationwide. It was cited for originality, technical skill and personal vision.
Case will be honored in New York on June 10. Previous Scholastic Art & Writing Awards winners include Andy Warhol, Stephen King and Amanda Gorman.
Friends Roger, Billie Jean, Blackjack and Tubs met up at Compo Beach on Thursday.
(Photo/Nancy Lally)
It was one of their last romps for 6 months. Westport beaches are closed to dogs from April 1 through September 30.
And beginning May 1, beach stickers are required for entrance too.
=================================================
Saugatuck Church’s Hoskins Hall was packed this week, for the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston’s meeting.
Dr. Anca Micu explained how artificial intelligence can make everyday life easier. A former copywriter turned marketing professor at Fairfield University, she said that the most important AI skill is not coding; it’s communication.
Good “prompt engineering” means giving AI clear context, a specific task, practical constraints, and a preferred format — whether analyzing an ad campaign, planning travel, checking facts or anything else.
Vague prompts (“analyze this campaign”) produce vague answers; detailed prompts (“you are a marketing analyst…identify patterns…present in a professional but accessible tone”) turn AI into a useful partner. (That’s good advice for our “06880” widget too, located at the top right of every blog page.)
Micu warned that AI responses are confident but not always correct, and urged the audience to protect privacy and use their own judgment.
Used well, she argued, AI makes people think more — not less — by forcing them to ask better questions, check sources, and actively curate the machine’s work. (Hat tip: Allan Sieger)
More on the Y’s Men: Want to know more about the war in Iran, fighting across the Middle East, and the threat to global oil shipping routes?
The very active, very involved group hosts Dr. Kenneth M. Pollack — vice president for policy at the Middle East Institute — on Thursday (April 2, 9 a.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church).
A former CIA analyst and National Security Council official, he is a leading authority on Middle East security and was recently interviewed on “Meet the Press.”
Guests and prospective Y’s Men members are welcome.
A bicyclist was struck by an automobile driver yesterday morning, on Riverside Avenue.
“He’s okay,” Saugatuck resident Robbie Guimond reports. “But boy, did it look bad!”
Be careful out there!
(Photo/Robbie Guimond)
================================================
Westport residents Rikki Zelkowitz Dworkis and Emmy Hollenberg work with many local families, supporting early learning and executive functioning skills.
For 10 weeks beginning April 22 (SproutWell, Darien; $800), their “Ready, Set, K!” play-based kindergarten readiness program focuses on confidence, independence and a smooth transition into kindergarten.
Key areas include classroom routines and transitions, emotional regulation and flexibility, attention, listening skills, peer interactions and group learning, and problem-solving. All are integrated into pre-K literacy and skills.
Bob Weingarten writes: “A few days ago, a large branch came down on Center Street.
“A day after, Westport tree warden Ben Sykas surveyed the incident, and said the rest of the tree had to be removed because of decay.
“Two days later, a crow crew came. It took them 2 days to take it down.
“I compliment the town and tree warden for their rapid action in removing a hazard to the neighborhood and people walking by. Quick action like this is great.”
Center Street tree, with branch removed … (Photo/Ben Sykas)
Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests between March 18 and 26.
A 34-year-old Brooklyn man was charged with larceny, attempt to commit larceny, identify theft, illegal possession of a personal identification information device, and forgery, after a bank customer reported in April 2025 that a $24,000 check to the IRS had been intercepted from the mail. An unknown party attempted to cash it. Two weeks later, a Westport business reported that an $835 check made payable to a vendor had been intercepted from the mail and deposited. After the man was incarcerated at Rikers Island, he was extradited to Westport on the 2 outstanding warrants. He could not post $325,000 bonds.
A 41-year-old Norwalk man was charged with operating a motor vehicle with suspended registration and driver’s license, failure to meet minimum insurance requirements and failure to appear, when an officer on patrol was alerted by an in-car license plate reader of the violations. He posted a $35,000 bond.
A 54-year-old Westport man was charged with assault and disorderly conduct, after verbal argument escalated into a physical altercation. The victim sustained an injury to the head.
A 35-year-old Westport man was charged with 2 counts of risk of injury to a child, after he left 2 juveniles unattended for 13 to 20 minutes while in Fairfield.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 12 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 10
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 9
Failure to renew registration: 9
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 7
Failure to obey stop sign: 4
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Speeding: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
Distracted driving: 2
Failure to obey stop sign: 2
Passing a standing school bus: 1
Operating a motor vehicle with unsafe tires: 1
Defective windshield wipers: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Improper turns: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1
Improper use of markers: 1.
Don’t drive with defective tires!
=================================================
For today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo, look at the top half of the photo — not the bottom.
The sun’s rays are a lot more interesting than this less-than-lovely view of Riverside Avenue, taken from Rich Vogel’s Wright Street office.
And finally … Dash Crofts, half of Seals & Crofts, died of hear failure on Wednesday in Austin, Texas. He was 87.
To be honest, I never got into their music. But they sure sold a lot of records. And in 2022, Rolling Stone listed “Summer Breeze” at #20 in their list of all-time greatest summer songs. Go figure.
Our online gallery artists often roam the world for inspiration.
Today, several of them look only as far as their home town.
Compo Beach, Longshore, the Levitt Pavilion, Staples High School — and a unique lending library — are all featured this week.
You never know what you’ll find, wandering our e-walls. That’s part of the appeal of this weekly feature.
As always, we invite you to be part of next week’s exhibition. No matter your age; the style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we welcome 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. As they have for 6 years, lovers want to know.
“We Read Books” — copper, AZEK and glass. Eric Bosch built and painted this “Free Little Library” for his grandchildren’s neighborhood with the help of his son Greg, along with Amelia and Theo.
“Paper Bird” (Amy Schneider)
“A Fish Tale” — collage 3-D impasto acrylic on a 36 x 36 canvas (Dorothy Robertshaw — Available for purchase; click here)
“The Levitt” (Rowene Weems — Available for purchase; click here)
“Vanishing into Light” (Nancy Breakstone — Available for purchase; click here)
“Reflecting at Longshore” (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)
“Morning Magic, Compo Beach” (Tom Kretsch — Available for purchase; click here)
“Folds” — compound photo (Tom Doran — Available for purchase; click here)
Untitled — 5″ x 7″ mixed media note cards (June Rose Whittaker — Available for purchase; click here)
Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)
“Pop Art Portrait” (Ella Barborak, age 15 — One River Art student)
“Who Needs a Beautician When My Friends Powder Me Every Day?” (Mike Hibbard)
“After Market” (Lawrence Weisman)
“Brass Passover Seder Plate on Matzah Background” (Steve Stein)
“Presidential Library” (Mark Yurkiw)
(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!)
Speaking of seasonal activities: These days, many Westporters are busy with spring cleaning.
Nine Rotary Club members took time out of their own yards, gardens and garages yesterday to spiff up the Sherwood Island Connector commuter parking lot, and nearby areas.
Led by Peter Helt and Rick Benson, they collected 25 bulging bags of trash.
“This is our town. Please keep it clean!” says Benson.
Ani DiFranco drew a large crowd last night, to the Westport Library.
The musician, folk-rock legend and cultural icon kicked off 4 days of VersoFest ’26 in a conversation with Westport TV journalist Lindsay Czarniak about her new book, “The Spirit of Ani: Reflections on Spirituality, Feminism, Music, and Freedom.”
Tonight’s headliner is another musical legend: Wyclef Jean. Very few tickets remain for his 8 p.m. performance (click here to purchase).
Downtown traffic may be a little tougher than usual tomorrow.
Two events — the weekly 11 a.m., Ruth Steinkraus Bridge anti-Trump protest, and a “No Kings” 12 noon rally on Jesup Green — could cause delays, along with possible road closures.
Traffic moves slowly when downtown is crowded. (Photo/Jim Honeycutt)
MoCA\CT invites all area teenagers to an open “Mic at the Museum Night” (April 30, 6 to 8 p.m.).
Organized by MoCA’s Teen Council, it’s free — and for teens only. Participants can perform in any medium they choose: music (solo or group), comedy, storytelling, rap, dance or whatever. Click here to sign up.
=================================================
Speaking of entertainment: Morningside — a local indie-rock band made up of local dads, who just released their debut album of original music — headlines Stage One at FTC next Friday (April 3).
The band — including Westporters Nick Huber, Sean Spillman and Bobby Schlesinger; Westonite Matt Stine, and Ian Walters of Fairfield — opened for John Oates last summer at the Levitt Pavilion. More recently, they played at Mohegan Sun’s Wolf Den Theater.
MyTeamTriumph — the great organization that pairs volunteer “angels” with “captain” athletes with disabilities, so that both can compete in running and bike races, and triathlons — hosts a pre-season warm-up short, friendly run and picnic on April 12 (11:30 a.m., Compo Beach).
They invite anyone interested — captain or angel — to check them out.
Upcoming events include the Women’s League of Westport Minute Man Race 5K and 10K (April 26), Boys & Girls Club of Stamford Corporate 5K (May 14), and Bloomin’ Metric Bike Ride (May 17).
A good-sized group of Representative Town Meeting (RTM) members enjoyed their semi-annual lunch this week, at The Clubhouse.
They time this one for the yearly Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce food contest. (This year’s — for the best sandwiches in town — runs through Tuesday, March 31.)
The other lunch takes place during Restaurant Week.
RTM members (plus former moderator Velma Heller, 2nd from right), at The Clubhouse. Owners Tim and Emily Zobl are in back.
Last year, the Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place — Westport’s men’s and women’s shelters — reopened, after extensive renovations.
This year, they’ve added something else new: an American flag. Peter Jennings installed it Wednesday.
The flag now flies proudly outside Homes with Hope’s Jesup Road building — which also houses a food pantry, and meeting space — in the heart of downtown.
(Photo/Helen McAlinden)
===============================================
This winter has been tough on local roads.
The Public Works Department is patching potholes as best they can. The entrance road at Burying Hill Beach has a particularly deep one.
Earlier this week the Y’s Women learned about “the power of the Red Cross,” from 2 women who know it well.
Susan Shansky retired from a career in budget management and communications at MIT. She is now a “blood donor ambassador,” having donated 10 gallons (in small increments) to the Red Cross.
Natalie Sustache is an American Red Cross senior recruiter.
The pair described how they bring talented people, to deliver hope and relief every day.
Susan Shansky and Natalie Sustache. (Photo/Vera DeStefano)
================================================
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is one more in our continuing insistence that yes, spring really is just around the corner.
Though tomorrow’s high will only be around 39, temperatures could reach the 70s on Tuesday and Wednesday. Fingers crossed …
And finally … Chip Taylor, who wrote songs as diverse as the Troggs’ “Wild Thing” and Merrilee Rush’s “Angel of the Morning,” died Monday in New York. He was 86.
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
