Category Archives: Arts

Roundup: Fire Pits, Pride Month, Library Sale …

The fire pits are here!

The newest addition to Compo Beach — and Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department latest town amenities — are ready for rental.

Two fire pts are available per night, for $150. Westport residents 21 and older can mail a request form to croda@westportct.gov.

Applications must be made at least 7 days in advance. They’re limited to 1 reservation per household per season (a second may be granted, based on availability).

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June is Pride month.

The centerpiece is Westport Pride’s townwide celebration (Saturday, June 22, 12 noon to 3 p.m., Jesup Green). Music, food, vendors, rainbows and much more — and (of course) everyone is invited!

Two weeks earlier (June 8, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), Saugatuck Congregational Church hosts a family picnic and party on their front lawn 

LGBTQ families — and allies, or course, — are invited to enjoy a bounce house, lawn games, face painting, crafts, hot dogs, cake, and more.

For more information, call 203-227-1261, or email sarah@saugatuckchurch.org.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

Temple Israel has a host of activities planned for Pride Month too. They include:

“Unspoken” screening and discussion (June 10, 6 p.m.). The film is about a closeted teen in a religious community who discoverd that he might not be alone. A discussion with writer/director Jeremy Borison follows. Register here.

Pride Shabbat and concert with Elana Arian (June 13, 6:30 p.m.) open to LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.

Rainbow challah bake (June 21, 5:30 to 8 p.m.) — to be shared the next day, at Westport Pride. Open to all; register here.

Temple Israel is also organizing its first LGBTQ+ affinity group — a safe place for those who identify with the community, and allies. For more information, email jcadrain@tiwestport.org.

Meanwhile, Weston celebrates its own Pride on June 3 (4 to 6 p.m., Town Green, 56 Norfield Road).

They’ll raise a rainbow flag, hear from local officials supporting the town’s inclusive culture, and (in conjunction with the Weston Library) host a craft- and Pride-themed story time.

Oh, yeah: There’s an ice cream truck too!

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The Westport Library’s spring book sale opened yesterday, with a rush.

But there are still plenty of great volumes — and music, movies and more — available.

Hours are:

  • Today (Saturday): 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Sunday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (almost everything half-price)
  • Monday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (fill our logo bag for $10 per bag, or your own equivalent bag for $8, or buy individual books at half-price).

A tiny portion of the many books. (Photo/Pam Docters)

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The Architectural Review Board meets on May 27 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall Room 309).

Among the agenda items: “To review and comment on the proposed construction of a new Long Lots Elementary School/Stepping Stones Pre-School…. Comments offered at the meeting will be considered in anticipation of further zoning review and approvals.”

So far, only general drawings have been shown of a new Long Lots School.

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In just a few weeks,”Sunday Gravy” — the talk radio show hosted by Chris O’Dell (Staples High School athlete and coach), Mac DeVito (Staples football legend and coach), and Brian Philpott (son of Staples’ football defensive coordinator) — has gained a devoted following.

The conversation and banter is wide-ranging, casual, and always interesting.

Tomorrow’s show — from 12:10 to 1 p.m., on 95.9 FM and 600 AM WICC should be especially intriguing.

The 3 hosts will dive into the recent controversy involving the non-renewal of Staples boys soccer head coach Russell Oost-Lievense.

O’Dell has intimate knowledge of the situation. He was part of the Staples soccer staff for 20 years, and worked closely with Oost-Lievense.

“Sunday Gravy” is broadcast throughout southern Connecticut. But it’s very much a local production. Shows are taped at the Westport Library’s Verso Studios — and the 2 stations are owned by Westport-based Connoisseur Media.

“Sunday Gravy” crew, at Verso Studios (from left): Mac DeVito, Brian Philpott, Chris O’Dell.

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As they prepare to leave Westport after several decades, Carl Swanson and JoAnn Miller must dispose of several large, compelling — but heavy — sculptures by their longtime friend, the late Kelley Spearen.

One has already found a new life. The couple donated it to Wakeman Town Farm, not far from their home off North Avenue.

The move was made recently. Today, it’s the newest — and most intriguing — addition to the Cross Highway farm.

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The mural showing early-20th century Westport life — a decades-long feature of the long-gone Townly restaurant — was resurrected when Banana Republic moved in.

That store was briefly replaced by Oka. Now it’s gone.

But the mural can be seen, as work is done inside.

Jerri Graham spotted this intriguing view:

(Photo/Jerri Graham)

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Sabeth Pérez performs tomorrow (May 18, 4 p.m.), at the United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston’s jazz vespers music and word service.

The event is free, but there is a free will offering.

Sabeth Pérez

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We may never have featured a snake before, in our “Westport … Naturally” series.

But — as this one on Rayfield Road shows — we’ve got ’em in Westport. Naturally.

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … of course!

(Don’t be a snake! If you read “06880” — and you’re here doing just that — please toss us a few bucks, to support our work. Just click here. Thank you!)

Roundup: WDA Fine Arts Festival, SHS Pops Concert, WYWL Grants, WYC Job Bank …

One of Westport’s signature events — the Fine Arts Festival — returns for its 52nd year on Memorial Day weekend.

On May 24 and 25 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), the national Top 20 show draws 165 fine artists from 19 states to Main Street and Elm Street. As always, there are returning faces. This year, 41 artists are new.

The Westport Downtown Association includes plenty of family activities. They include Elmo and friends, facepainting, crafts, games, dancing and photo ops.

There’s wine and beer for adults, and plenty of food vendors. Lots more information is available here.

Of course, “06880” will add more details, as the Fine Arts Festival nears.

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Another great tradition — though just a decade old — is the Westport Pops Concert.

This year’s event is June 6. The Staples High School Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble, Orphenians, Choralaires and other small group ensembles will perform — and Jim Naughton will host — at the Levitt Pavilion.

Gates open at 6 p.m., with the show starting at 7. Tickets are free, but a suggested donation of $15 helps offset production costs. They’ll be available at Staplesmusic.org beginning 9 a.m. on May 28. They’re first-come, first-served, so be ready. They’re snapped up fast!

This year’s poster was designed by senior Connor Yuan.

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On Tuesday, the Westport Young Woman’s League awarded $65,000 in grants, to a dozen local non-profits making a difference locally.

They include:

•  Caroline House ($10,000): Provides ESL education and early childhood support to immigrant and refugee women and children in Bridgeport, promoting literacy and life skills for the whole family.

•    Circle of Friends ($10,000): Offers inclusive social experiences, and a sensory-friendly “Quiet Zone” for people with autism and disabilities.

•    Filling in the Blanks ($10,000): Delivers weekend meals to food-insecure children, to close the hunger gap when school is not in session.

•    Liberation Programs ($10,000): Supports childcare for mothers undergoing substance use treatment at the Families in Recovery Program in Norwalk.

•    Westport Farmers’ Market ($5,000): Funds a culinary program where students prepare farm-to-table meals for residents of local homeless shelters.

•    VFW Post 399 ($5,000): Launches a veteran lunch and food donation program to connect veterans — especially disabled and underserved — with critical resources.

•    Levitt Pavilion ($4,000): Sponsor of a free children’s concert series.

•    Staples Tuition Grant ($3,000): Supporting local students’ educational goals.

•    LiveGirl ($2,500): Backing youth leadership and confidence-building programs.

•    Westport Country Playhouse ($2,000): Offering free and discounted tickets to family-friendly performances based on children’s literature.

•    My Team Triumph ($2,000): Covering race registration fees for athletes with disabilities.

•    Positive Directions ($1,500): Promoting local mental health awareness initiatives.

VFW quartermaster Phil Delgado (center) with the $5,000 Westport Young Woman’s League grant from Grants Committee chairi Bronwyn Cousins and president Tainara Cruvinel.

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Speaking of giving back:

As parrt of the Sunrise Rotary Club’s Epic Day of Service this tomorrow (Saturday, May 17, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.), they’re partnering with Big Y to collect food for Homes with Hope.

This is Big Y’s first time working with Sunrise Rotary — and the cause is great — so they hope for a huge turnout.

Bring non-perishable items — and/or pick up some while you shop.

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The Westport Youth Commission’s Student Job Bank is relaunched. And it’s better than ever.

The platform helps local businesses and organizations offer part-time, seasonal and intern positions to high school students. They include retail work, business help, non-profit assistance, lifeguards, camp counselors, and many more.

The previous Job Bank was free for students, but businesses had to pay to post jobs.  The Youth Commission donated a percentage of those fees to charity.

When the platform they used went out of business last year, the Commission had to fiind a new solution. Based on student and business feedback, they opened a new platform, without anyone paying. It’s now free.

To be included on the Job Bank,  fill out this form or email westportyouthcommission203@gmail.com. The Job Bank can be found here. 

Questions? Email kgodburn@westportct.gov.

Youth Commission co-chair Jake Shufro (3rd from left) presents Homes with Hope with a check, from previous Job Bank proceeds.

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May is AAPI Heritage Month. And Westport is celebrating with a wide array of events.

It began with a lunch at the new downtown hot spot, Sushi Jin. AAPI Westport members Vicky Nguyen and Anna Kai about spoke Vicky’s new bookm “Boat Baby,” at the New Canaan Library. Members then enjoyed Japanese treats and sodas while watching Gundam Gquuuuuux at Middle School Anime Night at Toquet Hall.

Still to come:

  • A family hike at Earthplace this Sunday (May 18, 10 a.m.). Reserve a spot here.
  • A conversation with Kevin Nguyen about his new book, “My Documents” (Tuesday, May 20, 7 p.m., Westport Library). It’s been named one of the “Best Books of 2025 (So Far)” by Esquire Magazine.
  • AAPI Restaurant Week (actually, longer) runs through May 31. Participating restaurants are here.

AAPI Westport gives a Special shoutout to the elementary school librarians and PTAs for inviting Christina Soontornvat as their visiting author this year. Students will meet her next week.

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A little rain did nothing to dampen the spirits of Club203.

Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities celebrated Wednesday, at Earthplace.

DJ Joe kept the smooth vibes playing; Ed’s Fusion provided the pizzas, and MoCA CT helped everyone build birdhouses.

Party time at Earthplace!

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Sunil Hirani provides today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

It doesn’t get more classic than this.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … on this date in 1888, Nikola Tesla delivered a lecture about how to use alternating currents to transmit electric power over long distances.

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Roundup: Jackie Robinson, Steve Zimmerman, Dogs …

Jackie Robinson is a towering historical figure. Thanks to Major League Baseball’s ongoing efforts, every young fan today knows the story of the first man to break the sport’s Black barrier.

But older Americans have more first-hand knowledge of the Brooklyn Dodgers star. They were youngsters or adolescents when he played, or had recently retired.

Robinson was the subject of the Westport Library Common Ground Initiative‘s first-ever Jackie Robinson Essay Contest.

Modeled on TEAM Westport’s Teen Diversity Essay Contest, it invited area residents age 60 or older to reflect on this prompt: “Jackie Robinson stands as an icon of equality and civil rights. What does that say about the power of his legacy, of the place of sports in our culture, and about our modern-day society?”

The Library, Senior Center and Meryl Moss Media group chose 6 winners.

Tony Sanches won first place — and a Jackie Robinson Baseball Hall of Fame 1962 induction limited edition bat — for his essay, “Life Lessons.” A New York Mets fan who is very familiar with the large Robinson statue outside Citi Field, he wrote about how the player inspired him — a “brown-skinned kid … in an all-white Long Island suburb.” Sanches’ essay is here.

Second place went to Steve Karp. His essay “42 and Me” described the writer’s youth in Stamford — where Robinson lived — and the player’s personal impact on him.

Other essay winners included Jim Alkon for “His Courage Taught Baseball to be Color Blind,“; William Field (“The Meritocracy of the Locker Room: Jackie Robinson’s Halo Looms Large“); Martin Erdheim (“Jackie Was America’s Dream“), and Holly Goss Betts (“Jackie Robinson Moved Boulders“).

Tony Sanches, with his winning Jackie Robinson bat.

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It’s not easy, overseeing all the music and art education in the Westport Public Schools.

But Stephen Zimmerman does it — and does it well.

So well, in fact, that last week our townwide coordinator of music and visual arts was named Administrator of the Year, by the Connecticut Music Educators Association.

He was cited for his “visionary leadership, tireless advocacy for teachers, and unwavering commitment to ensuring high quality music programs for all students… (He) is deeply invested in teacher growth, regularly presenting at state and national conferences and working closely with Connecticut districts, teachers, and music administrators to strengthen instruction, curriculum, and assessment practices.”

Steve Zimmerman

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The 9th annual Westport Dog Festival is this Sunday (May 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Winslow Park).

This week, TAILS volunteers have been working like — you know — filling 1,000 doggie bags, given to attendees.

Sponsors provide an item to promote themselves. They include things like dog food, a doggie poop bag holder (with bags), dog bandannas, bubbles, refrigerator magnets and discount coupons.

This is one doggie bag you’re not embarrassed to ask for.

Those doggone bags!

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If you didn’t help with the Compo Beach playground rebuildl — or even if you did — there’s one more chance to help.

Volunteers are needed all day this Saturday (May 17) to do one final heaving, helping sweep of the grounds.

Head on down to sift through the sand. And if you’ve got a metal detector: Bring it along!

Almost done! (Photo/Larry Silver)

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Westport Sunrise Rotary is collaborating with Open Doors Homeless Shelter in Norwalk for Epic Day of Service.

They’re looking for volunteers to help paint bed frames, and the front entrance of the facility.

Two shifts are avaiable this Saturday (May 17; 9 to 11 a.m., and 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.). Please PM me if you are available and willing to give back. If interested, email asarelli@yahoo.com.

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To celebrate its decade, The Cottage has unveiled a Ten Year Tasting Menu.

The multi-course offering was designed by chef/owner Brian Lewis, 2025 James Beard Award nominee for Best Chef: Northeast. The limited-time menu pays homage to “the restaurant’s roots in seasonality, storytelling, and enduring partnerships with New England’s finest farmers, fishermen, and foragers.

“This menu is a tribute to the ingredients, people, and moments that have shaped our story over the past 10 years,” says Lewis.

“We pushed ourselves to dig deeper — reconnecting with our local purveyors, reimagining time-honored techniques, and creating dishes that carry real meaning. Each course reflects a memory, a partnership, or a turning point.”

The tasting menu is available for dinner Tuesday through Saturday; $175 per guest, with an optional $75 wine pairing. Call 203.557.3701, or email chefbrianlewis@fullhousehg.com. Full menus and more information can be found here.

Tasting menu samples, at The Cottage.

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The Westport Weston Family YMCA’s Extra Special Spring Bash is truly special.

The lively, inclusive event for teens and young adults with disabilities (May 23, 6:30 to 8 p.m.) is open to youth ages 12 to 18 with physical or neuro-diverse needs, and their families.

The Y will transform its fitness studio into a spring-themed festival, with music, dancing, games, food, a photo booth, gift bags, and plenty of joy. A live DJ will keep the energy high, in a safe, welcoming space made just for arrwnswwa.

Parents and guardians can hang out in a lounge nearby. Registration and details are available here. 

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Joe Vallone was stymied recently in his efforts to build 32 units of 100% affordable housing on Maple Avenue South, behind the Exxon station.

But the Westport architect just completed another fully affordable project, The Camelot — in West Hartford.

The range of income levels is between $30,000 and $80,000 a year. Vallone first pitched the idea in early 2022. Full details are available here.

Joe Vallone, at The Camelot. (Photo/Ronni Newton for We-Ha.com)

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.Ken Runkel’s digital artwork is a highlight of nearly every “06880” Saturday online art gallery.

But today’s post has nothing to do with art.

Ten years ago Ken’s daughter Lindsey — a 2009 Staples High School graduate — fractured her spine in a mountain biking accident. She was paralyzed from the chest down.

But she earned 2 degrees, including a BSN in nursing from the University of Connecticut. In fact, Lindsey broke new ground, as the first paraplegic nursing student at UConn.

Soon after graduation she was hired by Yale New Haven Hospital, as the only paraplegic registered nurse in the liver and kidney transplant unit. In 2021 she became a critical care nurse, in the ICU at Yale New Haven Hospital.

She has fought tirelessly to live fully, and refuses to let paralysis define or limit her. Yet she has faced harsh challenges, both medical and financial.

Lindsey was recently diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. She has encountered ongoing obstacles to find effective pharmaceutical and treatment solutions.

Her daily medical needs already carry significant costs, and the treatment for ulcerative colitis has further increased her financial burden.

A campaign was established for Lindsey at HelpHopeLive, a non-profit that supports people with medical expenses due to catastrophic injuries and illnesses. All donations are tax-deductible and can only be used for medical expenses.

Lindsay Runkel

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On June 27 (6:30 p.m.,), Mystic Bowie’s Talking Dreads make their first-ever Westport appearance.

They’ll fill the Westport Library with their fun Caribbean swagger, and bouncy reggae rhythms, for a special dance party.

It’s billed as “the world’s largest reggae dance party.” And there’s Red Stripe beer!

Tickets are $37.50. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Mystic Bowie

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A 37-year-old Darien women was charged with larceny, following an investigation into a March incident at Mitchells. The woman allegedly removed security bags from clothes worth more than $9,000 in a dressing room. She was released after posting a $50,000 bond.

Westport Police also issues these citations, between May 7 and 14:

  • Driving while texting: 7 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 4
  • Speeding: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Evading responsibility: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating an improperly loaded motor vehicle: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1

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For today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured image, we present: the moon.

Specifically, a full one over Long Island Sound:

(Photo/Jonathan Prager)

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And finally … in honor of Joe Vallone’s latest affordable housing project (story above):

(Another day, another Roundup filled with news about events, restaurants, and everything else that makes this town pop. If you enjoy this daily potpourri, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

Roundup: Memorial Day Grand Marshal, Board Of Ed Agenda, Senator Blumenthal …

A well-known and longtime Westporter will lead the Memorial Day parade as grand marshal: Judge Edward Karazin.

Shortly after marrying in 1965, he joined the Army. Deployed to Vietnam as a civil affairs officer, he served as a MACV advisor in the Pacification Program. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Vietnamese Gallantry Cross.

Following his service, Karazin returned home to pursue his passions for law and community. He was a lawyer and judge, providing pro bono legal work for veterans, and continues to support Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 399 in Westport.

He has spoken regularly at schools about his military experience, leads the annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Stamford courthouse, and is an active participant in veterans’ events and local parades

Judge Karazin has also been a Little League coach and board member, Pop Warner board member, lector at Assumption Church, and instructor for in-service training with the Westport Police Department. He was also an adjunct professor at Western Connecticut State University, teaching legal writing and family law.

The Memorial Day parade is May 26. It begins at 9 a.m. on Riverside Avenue, continues on Post Road East to Myrtle Avenue to Main Street, and ends at Parker Harding Plaza.

A special program begins immediately after the parade, at Veteran Green across from Town Hall.

Judge Edward Karazin

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The Board of Education meets tomorrow (Thursday, May 15, 7 p.m., Staples cafeteria).

Among the key agenda items: a recommendation from superintendent Thomas Scarice on smartphones and wearable technology, and a redistricting update.

The meeting begins with 15 minutes of comment by the public, on non-agenda items.


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The Sanity Podcast — Westport journalist Dave Briggs and Alisyn Camerata’s extremely educational and entertaining podcast — dropped its most sizzling episode ever this week.

Senator Richard Blumenthal came to the Content Studio on Saugatuck Avenue. He said that “no other scandal in American history” compares to President Trump’s crypto dealings, meme coin scams, and foreign cash grabs.

“Is America sliding into autocracy?” Dave and Alisyn ask. “Discover how $300 million was made in 100 days, and what Congress refuses to stop.”

The Sanity podcast is available here, as well as on Spotify and iTunes. Or you can click below:

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Mr. Pickleball is hanging up his racquet.

At the age of 96, Tom Lowrieis resigning as Westport’s pickleball ambassador.

The new ambassador — selected by USA Pickleball — is Brandon Osterhout. A native Westporter, Staples High School graduate and local business owner, he is as active a player has Tom has been for years.

Brandon will continue to promote the sport, through tournaments, social events, exhibitions, and new courts.

“Thank you for your years of friendship, and your shared love of pickleball,” Tom says. “You will still see me around the courts, waving from the sidelines.”

Thanks for all your service, Tom. This would not be a pickleball paradise without you!

Tom Lowrie (Photo/Pam Einarsen)

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Westport has plenty of talented young artists.

But they get lots of help from their art teachers. And those instructors are very talented too.

The Westport Art Teacher Exhibition features work from educators across the district, including Stephanie Sileo, Mark DeRosa, Paula Morgan, Timothy Soper, Cecily Anderson, Carla Eichler, Cameryn Robinson, Denise Cuccia, Angela Simpson, and Danilo Sierra-Giraldo.

The exhibition runs May 12–23 at One River School of Art + Design. A reception is set for Friday (May 16, 6 to 7:30 p.m.). The public is invited. More information on the exhibit is available here.

(Paula Morgan)

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Seen downtown: L’Occitane on Main Street is closed for renovations. They’ll reopen later this month.

Meanwhile, around the corner on Church Lane, Fig Linens is closing. “Everything must go,” the sign says.

(Hat tip and photos/Sal Liccione)

Just a few yards away, Mrs. London’s finished with her/its loadout. The final day was Sunday. New York-based Maman takeks over soon.

The final item in the truck: the cappuccino machine.

(Hat tip and photo/Matt Murray)

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It’s cool that Leo is the first American pope.

But he’s from Chicago — 840 miles from here. We can’t really claim him as one of our own.

Still, he’s got at least one connection to this area. Check out Pope Leo XIV singing “Feliz Navidad” — the jangly, popular, not-very-religious-at-all Christmas tune written and performed by Weston’s own José Feliciano.

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Andrew Wilk is a Big Name in entertainment.

The Westporter is a 5-time Emmy Award-winning executive producer and director of network television. He has worked with Itzhak Perlman, Yo-Yo Ma, Joshua Bell, Renee Fleming, Audra McDonald and Kelli O’Hara.

He is also a noted stage director and writer. But symphony conducting remains his first love. He is a frequent musical director and conductor at the Paper Mill Playhouse, and been involved with the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra and New Jersey Symphony Orchestra.

This Saturday (May 17), Wilk will be at Waterbury’s Palace Theater. He will conduct the Waterbury Symphony Orchestra for a night of music and memories, celebrating 20 years of Broadway musicals.

The show will include musical numbers from “The Phantom of the Opera,”
“Ragtime,” “Evita” and “Dreamgirls,” plus “Over the Rainbow,” “Memory” and “Tomorrow.”

Tickets and more information are available here.

Andrew Wilk with one of his Emmys, at his Lincoln Center office.

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Pianist/composer Ted Rosenthal headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, May 15, VFW Post 399, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. shows, dinner at 7; $20 music charge, $15 veterans and students).

He’ll be joined by trumpeter Josh Bruneau, bassist Martin Wind, drummer Tim Horner and saxophonist Greg Wall. Tickets are available here.

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Steven Lewine died peacefully on April 13. He was 67, and had been diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease just 10 days earlier, and spent that time surrounded by his many loved ones.

At age 15, the Great Neck, Long Island native was hit by a truck while walking to school. Hespent several weeks in a full body cast. Doctors told him his survival was due to strength and luck. He often referred back to this experience to tap into a deep well of resilience and optimism.

He became the first person in his family to go to college. Steve studied Spanish and business in New York, Mexico, Canada, Arizona and Spain, earning 2 master’s degrees. He married Blandine in 1984. He had a career in investment banking, working across Latin America and spending 5 years in São Paulo, Brazil.

In 2013 he married Julie. He built a second career as a financial advisort. In 2021 he endowed the Lewine Global Engagement Fund at his alma mater, SUNY Brockport, to facilitate international experiences like the ones that shaped him.

He was passionate about the Rotary Club, through which he organized fundraising and service trips to schools and nonprofit organizations in Latin America.

Steve is survived by his wife Julie; their children Chris (Natalie), Nico (Pallavi), Gabby (Jimmy), Cara Miller (Cory) and Cody Wright (Laura), and grandchildren Leonardo, Jaya, Isabelle, and Owen, and siblings Julie, Bob and Barbara. Steve was also a father figure to his late brother Danny’s eldest daughter Patricia (Jason), and counted her daughter Rosalie among his grandchildren.

A memorial service is set for May 29 (2 p.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church). with a celebration of life to follow that day from 5-7 p.m. at Shorehaven Golf Club in Norwalk.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the CJD Foundation.

Steve Lewine

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” shows a rhododendron. Photographer Bob Weingarten notes that it flowers from the bottom up.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … Happy National Night Shift Workers Day!

(“06880” works 24/7 — including the night shift — to bring you all of Westport’s news, events, photos and more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

“Diary Of Anne Frank”: Timely Drama Set For Staples Stage

Published more than 70 years ago, “The Diary of Anne Frank” teaches crucial lessons about hatred, authoritarianism, perseverance, the human spirit and hope.

A subsequent theatrical production brought the Dutch teenager’s story to the stage, dramatizing visually for audiences the horrors and toll that two years of hiding takes on a family.

In that sense, “The Diary of Anne Frank” is timeless.

But theater is never static. When Staples Players presents their production later this month, it will look different from the one they staged 19 years ago.

David Roth and Kerry Long directed that version too. This one is shorter — 80 minutes — and includes new text, in an adaptation by the playwright.

Sara Stanley, as Anne Frank, writes in her diary. (Photo/Kerry Long)

It is at least as relevant now as it was 2 decades ago, the directors say. And not just because so many Holocaust survivors have died since then.

“With the rise of hatred around the world, this is a good time to tell the story of what happens when it goes unchecked,” Long says.

“The Franks were an educated, well-to-do family. And if this could happen to them …”

“This is not a play about evil, though,” Roth notes. “It’s about surviving in the face of evil. We’ve emphasized with the actors that this is a story of resilience, of people coming together in adversity. There is something in these characters that everyone can relate to.”

“Anne Frank” actors, in the annex. (Photo/Kerry Long)

Despite being one of the most powerful stories in modern history, many students today are only vaguely familiar with Anne Frank, Roth says.

Eighth graders in Westport study the Holocaust. They read “Night,” by Elie Wiesel. But not Frank’s diary.

(Thanks to a collaboration between Players and Bedford and Coleytown Middle School, all 8th graders will attend special in-school performances of the show.)

Roth and Long’s actors have been surprised to find that a teenager not so different from them could live in an attic for more than two years.

And do more than just survive. Anne Frank also fell in love.

As part of their preparation, the directors took the cast to an Anne Frank exhibit at New York’s Center for Jewish History. It includes a full-scale replica of the annex.

“It was so powerful for the kids to walk through,” Long says. “They got a much better understanding of Holland during the war, and what the Franks went through.

“A lot of them bought the exhibit book. One of them said it was the best museum they’d ever been to.”

Staples Players, at the Center for Jewish History. David Roth and Kerry Long are standing, 3rd and 4th from left.

Though being quarantined for long periods of time with their family during COVID was nowhere near the scale of horror the Franks endured, the young actors do bring that perspective to their characters.

But they also realize that the show will have special resonance for older audience members.

Players’ previous performance of “Anne Frank,” in 2006, drew more people with direct knowledge of the Holocaust — as survivors, or their relatives — than this one will.

However, at least one survivor will see this show. Now 89 years old, they’ll do a talkback after the May 22 perfromance.

When he published his daughter’s diary, Anne Frank’s father Otto said he wanted her story to be read by as many people as possible all over the world.

Anne Frank’s dream was to be a famous writer. In death, she is.

Roth, Long, and the talented teenagers of Staples Players,  are keeping her dream, and her father’s wishes, alive and strong.

(“The Diary of Anne Frank” is recommended for ages 10 and up. It will be performed on May 21, 22, 23 and 24 at 7 p.m., and May 24 at 3 p.m., in the Staples High School Black Box. Tickets, double cast lists and more information is avaiable here.)

Online Art Gallery #265

Artwork is coming out of the woodwork.

Nearly a dozen and a half pieces are shown today. As they do each week, they cover a wide range of mediums, styles and subjects.

All “06880” readers are welcome to submit art. No matter what 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, digital, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — we want whatever you’ve got.

This feature is open to all. Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone can contribute.

Please email a JPG to 06880blog@gmail.com. And please include the medium you’re working in — art lovers want to know.

Untitled — Newman Poses Preserve (Michael Tomashefsky — Available for purchase; click here)

Untitled (Joanie Landau — Available for purchase; click here)

Untitled (Steven Parton)

Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)

“The Stillness, Inside And Out” (Nancy Breakstone — Available for purchase; click here)

“Peck’s Ledge” — watercolor on Fabriano paper (Kathleen Burke — Available for purchase; click here)

“Tony the Two Tone Pony” (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)

“L’artichaut (The Artichoke) — acrylic on canvas (Moira Ratchford; Available for purchase, $650 framed; click here)

“My Abstact Quilt” — abstract digital painting (Ken Runkel — Available for purchase; click here)

“Enjoy a Pretty Pot” — watercolor and pencil (Ellin Spadone)

“Between the Birch Trees” — encaustic wax, handmade embellished frame (Dorothy Robertshaw; Available for purchase; click here)

“The Three Stages of Retirement” — oil paint pens on canvas (Will Luedke)

“Early Spring, Boatyard, Prop, Rudder, Poppets” (Peter Barlow)

“Tree in the Lava Field From Mt. Aetna” (Matt Murray)

“Love to All” (Lauri Weiser)

“Mom’s Love Tree?” — watercolor and inkblock (Steve Stein)

“Post Road Art Installation” (Lawrence Weisman)

(Entrance is free to our online art gallery. But please consider a donation! Just click here — and thank you!)

Roundup: My Mistakes, Canal Park’s Egrets, Compo’s Hook’d …

Yesterday’s Roundup included 2 dumb errors.

The 9th annual Dog Festival is Sunday, May 18 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Winslow Park). I said it was this Sunday; it’s actually a week later. Learn more here.

I also forgot to include the link to Staples High School student Jonathan Dobin-Smith’s powerful (and successful) plea at the Representative Town Meeting, to restore $25,000 to the Earthplace budget. Here is the speech; if it doesn’t start there, it’s at the 1:18:25 mark.

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Save the date. The always popular Staples Pops Concert is June 6 (7 p.m., Levitt Pavilion).

Free tickets are snapped up quickly. Watch this space for info (coming soon!) on how to snag yours.

Meanwhile, the Staples Music Parents Association invites local businesses to buy ads in the program book.

Contributions cover Pops Concert expenses, and help provide resources all year lon for over 400 students in the music program. For details, email  staples.music.parents.assn+ads@gmail.com.

There’s always a full house for the Staples Pops Concert. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

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More SHS news: Kids in pre-K through grade 5 are too young to benefit from Staples Tuition Grants.

But they’re old enough to help raise funds, for the organization that since 1943 has helped tens of thousands of SHS graduates attend college.

The 2nd annual Kids Fun Run is Sunday, May 18 (8 to 9:30 a.m., Staples’ Loeffler Field). Registration is $25; visit @STGFUNRUN on Instagram.

The morning includes games, face painting, snacks, and a kids’ run. It’s organized by juniors Will Briggs and Alexis Krenzer.

Last year alone, STG awarded $381,500 to 105 students. To learn more, visit www.staplestuitiongrants.org.

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The weather has been off and on.

But Hook’d is on.

The Compo concessionaire has opened for another season. Let’s hope for many good beach days ahead.

(Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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“Egrets” have come to Canal Green.

That’s the name of Westport’s newest outdoor artwork.

On Wednesday, the 7 1/2-foot stainless steel sculpture by Redding artist Babette Bloch joined 3 other sculptures recently placed in town parks by the Westport Art Advisory Committee, in collaboration with the Parks & Recreation Department.

Bloch is nationally known as a pioneer in laser-cut stainless steel sculpture

A celebration — including a short talk by the artist, a tribute by Westport poet laureate Donna Disch and refreshments — is set for May 31 (4 p.m.). Canal Park is at the interseection of Kings Highway North and Canal Street, just east of the Willows Medical Center.

“Egrets” at Canal Green.

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Longtime Westporter and musician Roger Kaufman’s forays into musical history have entertained and educated audiences for years.

He’s back on May 29 (7:30 p.m., The Warehouse at Fairfield Theatre Company).

“Speaking of Music Presents Road Trip to the 5Ms” includes both a presentation and live music.

Author/bassist/Fairfield University Professor Brian Q. Torff opens, with a talk on “Race and Music of the Deep South.

Then comes a 90-minute show by the Old School Revue All-Stars with the Saugatuck Horns, with kick-ass guest vocalists Audrey Martells, Tiffany T’Zelle, Billy Cliff and Billy Genuario.

They’ll perform a great collection of classic soul and R&B tunes, from the legendary recording studios of Muscle Shoals, Memphis, Miami, Macon and Motown.

The Old School Revue musicians have performed or recorded with the Blues Brothers, Steve Cropper, Bob Dylan, Joe Cocker, Aretha Franklin, Steely Dan, Robert Palmer and the Rolling Stones.

I saw their previous show, in August. I give “the 5 Ms” 5 stars. Learn more about the show here.

Old School Revue All-Stars. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

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A large, curious crowd turned out yesterday, for an “Alternative Device Fair” at the Westport Library.

The event — sponsored by OK to Delay, the group supporting parents who delay giving their children smartphones — featured vendors selling products with the basic functionality of cellphones, but with fewer distractions.

Among the companies represented: Bark, Gabb, Pinwheel, Troomi, Dumb Wireless and Light and Tin Can.

Alternative Device Fair at Westport Library.

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Also yesterday at the Library: Over 50 people helped Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich launch their campaign for the Board of Selectmen yesterday.

The crowd included Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, state Senator Ceci Maher, and former state senator Will Haskell.

Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich (center), with supporters. 

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One more event yesterday worth (very much) noting: On the company’s “Red Day” of service, agents with Keller Williams Realty’s Westport office filled 900 bags of healthy food, for Filling in the Blanks.

The Norwalk non-profit fights childhood hunger — which provides weekend meals to kids in need — has just opened a pantry at the University of Connecticut-Stamford.

Keller Williams agents, “filling in the blanks.”

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The Y’s Women have a special guest on Monday — and the public is invited.

Fiona Davis — author of 8 historical fiction novels set in iconic New York buildings, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Library and Dakota — will discuss fascinating stories behind those landmarks, with veteran broadcast journalist Alisyn Camerota.

The event is May 12 (11:30 a.m., Green’s Farms Church). Non-Y’s Women (and men) can register by email: jildam00@yahoo.com

Fiona Davis

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Speaking of authors: Like any writer (and performance artist), Anya Liftig has seen her share of rejection letters.

Like perhaps no other, she has turned them into a book.

The 1995 Staples graduate — and author of “Holler Rat,” a memoir of her unique youth, balancing her lives in privileged Westport and the hollows of Kentucky — just published “Rejection/Ambition: A 25 Year Performance.”

Both a performance document and text work, it is culled from a quarter century’s “copious collection” of rejection letters.

Anya says, “Read from the Ambition side, it is clear-eyed in its determination for artistic recognition. Read from the Rejection side, it is a text about failure, mistakes, and confusion.”

You can purchase “Rejection/Ambition”on her website.

Anya Liftig (Photo/Stephen Dennett)

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The Green’s Farms Association welcomes a special guest to their annual meeting next Wednesday (May 14, 7 p.m., Green’s Farms Congregational Church).

Outgoing police chief Foti Koskinas will speak. Important topics for the neighborhood group include a police/fire/EMS facility proposed for the Sherwood Island Connector, and traffic.

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Westport native and lifelong resident Loretta Pastore died peacefully on Monday. She was 65.

Like her mother and daughters, she was a Staples graduate. Her family says, “she was known for her kindness, generosity, grace, and unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand.”

Loretta is survived by her sister, Annmarie Pastore Santolini (Tim); daughters Isabella and Gabriella Mikaiel; best friend, ex-husband and father of her children George Mikaiel, and nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Monday (May 12, 10 a.m., Assumption Church). A celebration of life will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Pastime Club (59 Seaview Avenue, Norwalk).

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to plant a tree in Loretta’s memory at Compo Beach, one of her favorite places. Donate to that fund here.

Loretta Pastore

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Whitmal Cooper sent a photo, with the caption: “Brant geese on the way to the Arctic at Compo”:

(Photo by Norm)

Who knew that’s where they’re headed?

But I do know it makes a very cool “Westport … Naturally” image.

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And finally … happy 76th birthday to the one and only Billy Joel!

(And so it goes … one more week of “06880” in the books. Thanks for being part of our online community, every day. If you’d like to support our work, please click here. Thank you!) 

 

 

 

Roundup: Porch, Protest, Dog Park …

The British came, 248 years ago. We sent ’em packing.

They came again — this time with guitars — 187 years later. We loved ’em.

Now it looks like the British are coming again. This sign now flies at the former Porch deli, on Cross Highway:

(Photo/Diane Johnson)

It certainly seems as if Gruel Brittania — the Fairfield restaurant beloved for its shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, Yorkshire pudding, mushy peas, scones and more, founded by Westporter Karen Hubrich — is moving in.

And it sounds as if the target for opening is next month.

Jolly good!

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Several dozen protesters gathered on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge yesterday.

As they have every Saturday for weeks, they carried signs decrying a variety of actions by President Trump and his administration.

As with past demonstrations, there were honks and thumb’s-up signs from passing drivers.

Organizer Bean Corcoran says protests will continue every Saturday, from 11 a.m. to noon.

Among the protest targets: funding cuts to PBS. (Photo/Rowene Weems)

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Mothers Day is around the corner. (Next Sunday — get on it!)

Which means Fathers Day is not far. And that means the Yankee Doodle Fair.

The dedades-old tradition returns that weekend. Dates are Thursday and Friday, June 12 and 13 (6 to 10 p.m.); Saturday, June 14 (1 to 10 p.m.), and Sunday, June 15 (1 to 5 p.m.).

As always, there are carnival rides, games, food — you name it. Sand art is back too.

And as always, it’s a major fundraiser for the Westport Woman’s Club, where the whole shebang takes place.

Yankee Doodle comes to town.

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Speaking of the Westport Woman’s Club: There’s a Red Cross blood drive there (44 Imperial Avenue) on May 12 (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.). They provide baked goods, too.

Click here or call 800-733-2767 for an appointment.

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Westport has Winslow Park.

Tomorrow — after 9 years of effort — Weston will have its own dog park.

Weston Dog Park opens at 22 Lords Highway East, on part of the Moore property — land purchased by the town more than 2 decades ago for $2.3 million, specifically for municipal use.

Construction, design and the first years of maintenance are funded through grants like ARPA, gifts from private individuals, and a contribution in memory of late 2nd Selectman Brian Gordon.

It will be open 9 a.m. to sunset. Click here for more information.

Happy days (and dogs) in Weston.

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Plenty of Staples High School’s athletic teams do great community service work.

Few do it better than the boys lacrosse program.

Every year, they try to raise $50,000 for Sticks for Soldiers. Every year, 100% of their funds help combat-wounded veterans and their families.

This year, they’re selling custom Sticks for Soldiers shirts and hats. Orders are being taken online (click here) through May 7. (Under “team,” select “Staples HS Sticks for Soldiers 2025”; the password is Sticks2025).

The annual Sticks for Soldiers game is May 19. Hats and shirts can be picked up there.

Apparel questions? Email teamstore@macwear.com. Lacrosse Sticks for Soldiers questions? Email a.vengrow@ven2port.com.

Sticks for Soldiers gear.

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Mary Scott Himes is this month’s gueste exhibitor, at the Westport Book Shop.

Her prints explore questions of identity and the female body.

She says, “I started making things again during my treatments for breast cancer in 2021. Cancer has taken many things from me, but my art practice is what I took from it.

“In the public realm, married to Representative Jim Himes, I play a role.  I am a person whom people think they know.  This leads to questions about how we create identity: how the different layers of history and mass culture and personal experience bond together to make us who we are.

“My nascent art practice focuses mostly on printmaking because I love the spatial thinking, the variety of techniques, and the collaborative creative process it offers.”

Himes co-founded and was executive director of The Unload Foundation. The Connecticut arts initiative developed educational and cultural events to raise awareness around issues relating to gun rights and gun violence.

A reception is set for May 27 (6 to 7:30 p.m.). To RSVP, email   RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org or call 203-349-5141.

Mary Himes, at the Westport Book Shop.

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Swimming season has begun.

At Burying Hill Beach, anyway.

These 2 intrepid bathers took to the water yesterday.

The air was warm. The water … judging from their reactions, less so.

(Photos/Rob Grodman)

A reminder: Stickers are now required to park at all Westport beaches.

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The opening of the new Finalmente Restaurant on Post Road East — across from Design Within Reach and next to Jeera Thai — “has exceeded our expectations,” says owner Giuseppe Cinque.

He asked “06880” to pass along this message: “We are deeply grateful for the warm congratulations and heartfelt welcome we’ve received from the Westport community. It’s been truly moving, and more meaningful than we could have imagined.”

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Longshore. It’s one more reminder of how lucky we are to live here — especially in May.

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … in honor of the (probable) new operator of The Porch (story above):

(From the UK to the Ruth Steinkraus Bridge — and everywhere in between — “06880” brings you Westport-oriented news you can use. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Online Art Gallery #264

We’ve made a tiny tweak to our online art gallery.

One of our artists says that marking a piece “for sale” is a bit crass.

He’s right. From now on, any artwork that an artist offers for sale will say “available for purchase.”

The process is the same. Just click the link in the caption, then fill out the email that pops up.

Buyers arrange the purchase — price, original or print, framed or unframed, shipping or pickup, etc. — directly with the artist. Happy shopping!

Meanwhile, a reminder about our works: We invite submissions from all “06880” readers. No matter what 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, digital, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — we want whatever you’ve got.

This feature is open to all. Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone can contribute.

Please email a jpeg to 06880blog@gmail.com. And please include the medium you’re working in — art lovers want to know.

“Flying Fish” — encaustic was embellished with gold leaf (Dorothy Robertshaw — Available for purchase; click here)

“Deep Blue” — digital photography, combined with Photoshop and Midjourney manipulation (Ken Runkel — Available for purchase; click here)

Untitled (June Rose Whittaker — Available for purchase; click here)

Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)

“Peck’s Ledge Sunset” — watercolor (Kathleen Burke — Available for purchse; click here)

“Another Mist Opportunity” (Michael Tomashefsky — Available for purchase; click here)

“Daisy the Daffodil Detective” (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)

“Parade of Tulips” (Cindy Wagner — Available for purchase; click here)

“Bubbles” (Karen Weingarten)

“A Nautical Gate in Stonington” (Peter Barlow)

“So Nice to See Green Pouring in My Window Again” (Tom Doran — Available for purchase; click here)

“Sauna and Loofah” (Steve Stein)

“88 … 89 … 90” (Lawrence Weisman)

(Entrance is free to our online art gallery. But please consider a donation! Just click here — and thank you!)

 

Pic Of The Day #2935

Artists at Old Mill Beach (Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)