Category Archives: Arts

Roundup: Lyman Police Aid, Westport HR Hire, HS Dodge-a-Cop …

Posted on November 21, 2023 | 5 comments

The Westport Police Department’s latest donation of excess used equipment — including communication devices, and much-needed hats — has been delivered to their counterparts in our sister city of Lyman, Ukraine.

It is much needed, as the war grinds on and heads into a second winter.

NOTE: Donations to Lyman are always welcome. Click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)

Lyman police officer, with a Westport Police walkie-talkie — and hat.

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The town of Westport has hired a human resources director.

Candice Holley’s appointment is effective immediately.

She has over 20 years’ experience in human capital and human resources implementation, with a strong background in talent acquisition, recruitment and retention.

Most recently, Holley served as an independent HR consultant. Previous positions include vice president, people and operations, for the Sandy Hook Promise Foundation, and global director, human resources, with Barnes Group.

She graduated from Seton Hall University with a degree in social and behavioral Sciences. She also attended the University of Mississippi to earn a degree in Psychology, and the University of Cincinnati for political science.

Candice Holley

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One of Westport’s favorite holiday toy drives — the Westport Police Department’s, in partnership with the Police Benevolent Association and Police Athletic League — is open for donations.

Toys will be provided to children in need throughout Fairfield County, and at area hospitals.

Officers will accept new, unopened and unwrapped toys — and cash donations — in the ASF Sports & Outdoors parking lot (1560 Post Road East), between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., on the next 2 weekends (Saturday and Sunday, December 2-3 and 9-10).

There will also be toy collection boxes at:
• Westport Police Department, 50 Jesup Road
• ASF Sports & Outdoors Store, 1560 Post Road East
• Awesome Toys & Gifts, 429 Post Road East
• The Toy Post , 180 Post Road East

Questions? Contact Craig Bergamo by phone at (203) 341-6000, or
email (cbergamo@westportct.gov).

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More than a dozen teams — each including Staples students, and at least one Westport Police Department officer — battled last night, in the high school fieldhouse.

A portion of the large group of students and cops. (Photo/Dan Woog)

It was all in good fun. The annual “Dodge-a-Cop” event was a way for teenagers and cops to meet and bond — and for the Westport Youth Commission to raise funds for the Homes with Hope and Westport Woman’s Club food pantries.

Kevin Godburn, longtime Youth Commission member through the Department of Human Services (2nd from left) with (from left) members Jake Shufro, Cabry Lueker (president) and Anaam Olasewere (secretary, Dodge-a-Cop manager). (Photo/Dan Woog)

Gault Energy and Mitchells co-sponsored the evening, which included prizes, pizza and drinks.

And plenty of good, clean, cops-and-kids competition.

The winning Dodge-a-Cop team included Corporal (and Westport PAL president) Craig Bergamo (right). (Photo/Cabry Lueker)

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Club 203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — celebrates the holidays next week.

The party is set for MoCA, next Monday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. It’s a “hoedown,” so Western-themed attire is suggested.

There’s square dancing, a Western photo area, food and giveaways. Parents are invited to stay and celebrate too.

Click here for reservations, and more information. Questions? Email club203ct@gmail.com

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Westporter Rosie Jon — who paints with her toes better than nearly anyone can using hands — celebrates 10 years as an artist with her first-ever exhibition.

It’s set for the gallery at Green’s Farm’s Church, from December 1 to January 12.

Opening night begins at 6 p.m., and includes a chance to watch Rosie create her beautiful art, and a Q-and-A.

Attendance is limited. Click here to register.

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Speaking of art:

The Westport Library welcomed Norm Siegel last night.

The noted local artist discussed his new exhibit, “Visual Curiosities.” It’s on view through January 8.

Norm Siegel (far right) with (from left) admirers Nina Bentley, Miggs Burroughs and Lynn Untermeyer Miller, last night at the Westport Library. (Photo/Carole Erger-Fass)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” subject is getting ready for winter, at Winslow Park?

Are you as industrious?

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … on this date more than 80 years apart, 2 key entertainment events happened.

In 1877, Thomas Edison announced his invention of the phonograph: a machine that can record and play sound.

In 1959, disc jockey Alan Freed, who popularized the term “rock and roll,” was fired from New York’s WABC radio over allegations he had participated in a payola scandal.

(Art, music, kids, Town Hall — it’s all here in the Roundup, just like every day. But all this stuff takes time and effort. “06880” relies on reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Children, Police, Staples HS

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Candlelight Concert Tickets Available December 1

Posted on November 20, 2023 | Comments Off on Candlelight Concert Tickets Available December 1

For 83 years, the Candlelight Concert has been the Staples High School music department’s gift to the town.

With its “Sing We Noel” processional, “Hallelujah Chorus” finale, and wondrous performances by the choirs, orchestras and bands, Candlelight is timeless.

But there is always something new, too.

This year, it’s the world premiere of a specially commissioned piece.

“I Found the Light” is a collaborative creation by a pair of Class of 2000 graduates: composer Jake Landau and poet Emily Garber. Afterward, it will be shared worldwide.

That premiere — and the rest of the much-anticipated concert, including Vaughan Williams’ “Greensleeves Fantasia,” “Ose Shalom” by John Leavitt, and Leroy Anderson’s classic “A Christmas Festival” — is Friday, December 15 (8 p.m.) and Saturday, December 16 (3 and 8 p.m.).

Tickets will be available to the public at 9 a.m. on Friday, December 1 (online at www.staplesmusic.org. There is a maximum of 4 tickets per order.

There is no charge for Candlelight tickets. However, donations to support the music program are graciously accepted.

Veteran Candlelight-goers know: Tickets sell out fast. Mark your calendar now for 9 a.m., December 1.

 This year’s Candlelight poster was designed by Staples art and music student Shivali Kanthan.

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Roundup: Cribari Bridge Lighting Tonight; EMS Raises All Their $$$ …

Posted on November 18, 2023 | 5 comments

If you needed any more proof that Westport is racing headlong into the holiday season: Tonight (Saturday) at 5 p.m., the William F. Cribari Bridge gets lit.

As always, Al’s Angels do the honors. Also as always, everyone is invited

Sure, it’s a few days early. But, Al DiGuido says, “we believe that our world needs a beacon of hope and love right now (as always). We are called to be a light in the world!”

Al’s Angels does so much for Westport — from providing the inspirational Saugatuck bridge lights, to giving holiday meals  and gifts to children (and their families) battling cancer, rare blood diseases, natural disasters and severe financial hardship. Click here to give back to this great organization.

The Cribari Bridge over the river in Saugatuck will be lit at 5 p.m. tonight. (Photo/January Stewart)

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Westport’s $217 million budget pays for a lot — everything from Public Works trucks, to Band-Aids at the Aspetuck Health District.

But one big item is missing: the Volunteer Emergency Medical Service.

Astonishingly. from the ambulance that helps save your life, to the Band-Aids they offer, they raise all their own funds.

Now that you’ve picked yourself up off the floor (and hopefully, don’t need medical attention for it), read on.

Our wonderful WVEMS recently kicked off their annual fundraising drive with letters to everyone in town.

It might be easy to overlook it, in the rush of year-end pleas by many very worthy organizations (and, um, others).

Don’t.

The request comes with a new option: to donate on a recurring (weekly, monthly or yearly) basis. That’s the lifeblood (ho ho) of many groups.

Right now, they’re fund raising for a crucial need: 3 new ambulances. They have life cycles of their own, and (like many of us) they’re headed toward their expiration date.

Two of the 3 have been paid for, by very generous donors. Residents need to pitch in for the third — and for everything inside.

Including Band-Aids.

Click here to contribute.

And give till it, uh, hurts.

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Westport artist Elaine Clayton writes:

“Ever since October 7 — when I woke up to an email from a friend in Jerusalem saying “I am safe, but war has begun” — I have felt a sense of shock and sorrow as probably you have, too.

“This has been made worse by my astonishment that so many, while protesting for peace and justice for the innocent people of Gaza, did not first condemn the slaughter, rape, torture and kidnapping of innocent people on that day.

“I also want a safe, peaceful resolution for Gaza. But I do not want to live in a world where the slaughter of innocents for any cause is contextualized as reasonable, or even as ‘glorious.’

“I realized I could do something to help myself cope with the grief and to hopefully let art do the talking.”

Elaine made 4 “prayer drawing videos,” with 7 hostage children. One is below; click on, to view.

“My hope is to keep all our hearts open to our shared humanity, through the eyes of these children. B’ Shalom and with love,” she adds.

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“Below Surface” — the award-winning 19-minute documentary about the Westport Weston Family Y’s AquaFitness program — is going national.

Its TV debut is tomorrow (Sunday, November 19, 10 a.m., Lifetime Channel).

It’s inspiring, powerful — and filled with Westporters you’ll recognize.

Connecticut viewers got a sneak peek this week. AquaFit instructor (and star of the film) Patty Kondub, and producer (and AquaFitter) Mary Lake Polan were interviewed on NBC’s CTLive.

Everyone into the pool. And then out, to watch tomorrow!

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“A Father’s Promise” is a powerful story about the aftermath of Sandy Hook, and the mission to end gun violence in America.

It tells the story of musician Mark Barden. After his son Daniel was murdered 11 years ago, he became an activist. Along the way, he rediscovered his lost passion for music.

It’s appropriate that on December 7 — the night before the world premiere — a multi-artist benefit concert at New York University will raise funds (and be filmed for a documentary).

Among the performers: Sheryl Crow, Peter Frampton, Bernie Williams — and Aztec Two-Step 2.0, featuring Westporters Rex Fowler and Dodie Pettit.

Click here for tickets, and more information. Click below for the movie trailer:

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Ever wonder what Christmas was like during World War II?

The Weston History & Culture Center’s Coley House is decorated like 80 years ago. It shows what life was like when 3 generations of one family occupied the home.

Guided tours are December 7 (2 and 3 p.m.); December 9, 10, 16, 17, 21 and January 4, 6 and 7 (1, 2 and 3 p.m.).

Tickets are $5 for Weston History & Culture Center members, $10 for non-members. Click here to purchase.

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The Levitt Pavilion is headed to Stamford.

Westport’s outdoor entertainment venue has teamed up with the Palace Theatre. Together they present DakhaBrakha — a world music quintet from Kyiv, Ukraine — this Sunday (November 19, 7 p.m., Palace Theatre, Stamford).

The group embraces folk, indie rock, pop, hip hop and avant-garde styles. Theie show includes global orchestrations and Ukrainian traditional instrumentation.

Click here for more information, including tickets.

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Two former 1st selectpersons joined the town’s current chief executive at Christ & Holy Trinity Church, at a memorial service for longtime town volunteer Paul Hammond. Martha Hauhuth served from 1985-89; Jim Marpe served 2 terms prior to Jen Tooker.

 

From left: Jim Marpe, Martha Hauhuth, Jen Tooker. (Photo/Andrea Moore)

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Westport resident John Murphy died Monday. He was 85.

A graduate of the College of the Holy Cross, he had a long career as a sales and marketing executive at the American Can Company.

His obituary says: “John was an eternal optimist, with a kind heart and open mind. His spirit was indomitable, and he was a prodigious hiker and reader, especially history. He was a people person, keenly interested in making connections and naturally curious about everyone he met. John sidestepped small talk, instead, he was out to disarm you, with charm and a wicked sense of humor….

“He was an avid newspaper reader, often found behind a copy of the Wall Street Journal (though an ardent, active Democrat), and always curious and engaged in the world around him. He loved to travel to the European countryside, especially Italy, taking in the history, people, and wonderful food. He loved the Yankees, and the Giants, and accepted his sons’ betrayal with the Patriots.

His and his college sweetheart, Connie Dixon, raised 3 children. He coached them in sports, and was president of the Redding Boys & Girls Club.

In his later years, John found a dear companion in Marleen Salko. They spent years enjoying yoga, walks on Westport’s beaches, and time with good friends. He made great friendships through the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston, especially the hiking group. He also volunteered driving people to medical appointments.

John is survived by his children Mark (Katya), Chris (Jennifer) and Kirsten Hedberg (Eric), and grandchildren Megan, Christopher and Valerie Murphy, abd Finn, Tess and Ingrid Hedberg; Diana and Charlie Healy; his longtime companion Marleen Salko, and sisters Mary and Annie Murphy. He was predeceased by his wife Connie.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at the Westport Library on Saturday, November 25 (2 to 4 p.m.). Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Nature Conservancy.

John Murphy

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The weather was great yesterday for fishing, at Burying Hill Beach. Let’s hope the fish were biting for the stars of today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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And finally … it’s hard for a cartoon character to have a birthday.

But today is considered the official birthday for Mickey Mouse. On this day in 1928 — 95 years ago — he first debuted in the short film “Steamboat Willy.”

(If you found something to do this weekend — or any other day — on “06880,” please consider supporting your hyper-local blog. Just click here. Thank you!)

 

 

 

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Looking back, Politics, Saugatuck, YMCA

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Online Art Gallery #188

Posted on November 18, 2023 | 1 comment

New contributors join regulars this week, in another edition of our online art gallery.

As we always do, we welcome all kinds of art. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — whatever you’ve got.

Email it to 06880blog@gmail.com. Share your work with the world! (PS: Please include the medium you’re working in — art lovers want to know.)

Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone is invited (no, urged) to contribute.

“Autumn Leaves” — gel print (Amy Schneider)

“Birds on the Pond” (Tammy Murray)

Untitled — Photographer Donna Forma explains: “This is an anti-war memorial titled ‘No Names.’ I hate war! This is an attempt to make people think of the terrible consequences of it. The heads, made of bronze, are together with a body shape wrapped in a burlap bag. They are placed on a slab of earth as a memorial to those unfortunate returning.”

Untitled (Tom Doran)

“North Pond (A Fictitious Location)” (Ken Runkel)

“Three Bells and a Poblano” — oil on panel (Werner Liepolt)

“Working on the Phone” (Lawrence Weisman)

“Does Every Church Street Have a Church?” — pencil sketch (Steve Stein)

Untitled — Photographer Carol Anne Ances took this in the Reed Flute Cave near Guilin, China after a cruise on the Yangtze River.

“Hey You Down There. Hats Off!” — Easter Island (Mike Hibbard)

“Yacht Kay Dee — 8′ Beam x 36′ Length, Built 1925” (Peter Barlow)

Untitled (Jan Carpenter)

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

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Friday Flashback #374

Posted on November 17, 2023 | 10 comments

As the west side of the Saugatuck River is redeveloped — with new office building, and the recently opened Bankside House — and plans for a redesign of Parker Harding Plaza behind Main Street muddle along, I found this illustration from the 1960s.

I don’t know the artist, though it sure looks like Stevan Dohanos’ style.

It shows the Famous Artists School — of which he was a founding member — and the adjacent Famous Writers School.

Across the river are the backs of Main Street stores. Parker Harding — built on landfill a decade earlier — is barely visible.

To the left is the Victorian house that stood on Gorham Island. It has since been replaced by a large green and gold office building.

In the distance is Bedford Elementary School (now Town Hall) and the spire of Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.

What stands out to you? Click “Comments” below.

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50 Years Ago This Week:

A Westport News editorial urged the town of Westport to buy a 9.1-acre parcel at the corner of Greens Farms Road and the Sherwood Island Connector.

Among the reasons: “…by purchasing the property, Westport will then have ample time to change the zoning so as to accommodate a new and smaller corporate headquarters…”

It is unclear whether that land is now the town’s transfer station (with part of the property belonging to private Sherwood Farms Lane), or the parcel across the Connector that is the I-95 Exit 18 commuter park-and-ride lot.

The “smaller headquarters” refers to Westport’s first corporate headquarters: Stauffer Chemical (now Bridgewater Associates) at Nyala Farm, a few yards south on the Connector.

The transfer station and park-and-ride, on both sides of the Sherwood Island Connector.

(If you enjoy our Friday Flashbacks — or anything else on “06880” — please support this hyper-local blog. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Miggs Burroughs, Dick Nixon, Butternut Squash …

Posted on November 11, 2023 | 3 comments

50 years ago tomorrow — November 12, 1973 — Time magazine published their first editorial ever. It called for the resignation of President Nixon.

The cover read “Nixon’s Jury: The People.” It showed 12 people, in various stages of contemplation about the Watergate scandal-engulfed chief executive.

That cover was drawn by Miggs Burroughs.

He was just 27 years old. Less than a decade earlier, he’d graduated from Staples High School.

“It was not my proudest moment artistically,” he recalled yesterday.

Because of an extremely tight deadline, he worked in the Time/Life office. Staffers ordered paint and supplies from the Arthur Brown Art Store nearby.

Then they stood over Miggs — with the doors barred — until he was done.

Because of its historical significance — it was the magazine’s first editorial, after all, the magazine is now in the Smithsonian Museum.

“Not the best looking jury ever convened,” Miggs added.

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As temperatures drop, the Westport Fire Department has partnered with Bridgeport Rescue Mission for a “Share the Warmth” coat drive.

New or gently used (and clean) winter coats, hats, mittens, gloves, scarves and snowsuits can be dropped off at Fire headquarters (515 Post Road East), the Senior Center and Town Hall through December 15.

Several schools will have collection boxes at their entrances, too.

Westport firefighters will sort and transport the items to the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.

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The Secretary of the State’s office has released official turnout results for Tuesday’s election.

In Westport, 45.6% of eligible voters cast ballots. That’s up from 43.1% in 2021 — the last town-wide election (although that also included state-wide races, like governor and the General Assembly).

Throughout Connecticut, turnout was 33.3% — exactly one-third of eligible voters.

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Last month, Westporter Walter Fischel was evacuated from Ashkelon, Israel, where he had lived and worked for 9 months. Because there was so much uncertainty around when and if he would return to work, he decided to travel.

Last week he landed in South Africa to visit friends. On his way to meet them, he was carjacked and shot in the face.

Though he will make a full recovery, his passport, phone and credit cards were stolen.

He got a new passport and should be well enough to travel next week, but his accounts have been frozen since the robbery and he is unable to book a flight home.

All funds raised will go directly to Fischel, to assist with travel, medical expenses, and living expenses for him and his family.

Click here for the GoFundMe page.

Walter Fischel

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Linda Doyle writes:

“Back in the spring I bought some pre-cut butternut squash from Trader Joe’s. At the bottom of the tray I found 1 seed, and put it in water.

“It sprouted, so I stuck it into a small pot with soil. It turned into a little plant.

“Thrilled to see the growth, I stuck it in the ground. Amazingly, that 1 seed became a huge vine over 25 feet long!

“My daughter Mikayla and I tended to it all summer. We just harvested 5 beautiful monster-sized butternut squashes. Never underestimate the power of one small seed!”

Mikayla and Linda Doyle, and their butternut squashes.

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Aspetuck Land Trust’s next “fall lunch and learn” webinar could not be more timely.

Arborist Chris Teter discusses fall foliage (Friday, November 17, noon to 1:30 p.m.). He’ll explain the biology of leaves on trees and shrubs in autumn, highlight their significance in the ecosystem, then connect it to urban and suburban settings.

He’ll also provide information on how to use leaves to enhance both beauty and ecological value.

Click here to learn more, and register.

Just another fall day, at Staples High School. (Photo/Dayle Brownstein)

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Speaking of foliage: Todd Suchotliff’s shot of the Longshore entrance road on Tuesday is today’s very worthy “Westport … Naturally” image:

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And finally … in honor of Miggs Burrough’s Time magazine cover, 50 years ago tomorrow (story above):

(From Watergate to winter coats, butternut squash to fall foliage, “06880” is your place for hyper-local news. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)  

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Online Art Gallery #187

Posted on November 11, 2023 | 2 comments

Good morning! Our gallery is open. Today we feature works of the season, and of the world we live in.

Come on in … and please submit your work, too.

We welcome all kinds of art. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — whatever you’ve got.

Email it to 06880blog@gmail.com. Share your work with the world! (PS: Please include the medium you’re working in — art lovers want to know.)

Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone is invited (no, urged) to contribute.

“To All Our Veterans!” (Karen Weingarten)

“Leaves” (Rowene Weems)

“In Autumn Some Leaves Soar, Others Fall” (Jerry Kuyper)

“Cry havoc! And let loose the dogs of war!” — pencil and watercolor. Artist Steve Stein notes: “Done in the modernist style of Marc Chagall; the quote is from Shakespeare’s ‘Julius Caesar.'”

“The Family Eats Together” (Peter Barlow)

“Perfect Ending” (Ken Runkel)

“Monkshood in a Red Ruby Bottle” — oil on panel (Werner Liepolt)

“Picky, Picky, Picky” (Mike Hibbard)

“Bottoms Up” (Lawrence Weisman)

“Moonrise at Salisbury Beach” (Roseann Spengler)

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

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Roundup: Swearing In, Peggy’s Cottage, ’60s Art …

Posted on November 10, 2023 | 4 comments

Winners of Tuesday’s election — newcomers and incumbents — will be sworn in on Monday, November 20 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

The public is invited to attend.

Dozens of town officials — including board and commission members, and those on the Representative Town Meeting — will take oaths of office November 20. This is a file photo from 2021. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Loyal customers love Peggy’s Cottage — the great everything-Irish (and English, Scottish and Welsh) Post Road store, opposite Stop & Shop.

It’s a little bit of home — warm, comfortable, welcoming.

But there’s always something new there, too.

For example:

  • Irish Word Bangle Bracelets
  • 100% Irish Wool Socks.
  • Mittens
  • Irish knitwear for babies.
  • Celtic design pashmina wool and silk scarves, inspired by Irish islands with the story of each  isle on the hangtag.
  • Ireland t-shirts
  • Books, from a Celtic wholesale company.

Click here for more very cool (and often green) merchandise.

New arrivals at Peggy’s Cottage.

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Speaking of holiday shopping:

The Westport Library Gift Store is now open, and filled with gifts. It’s located in the writing center adjacent to the Hub on the main floor, alongside the Library Store and Patron Services desk.

There are gifts for readers, writers, and anyone else special: handmade scarves, hats and gloves; puzzles and games; decorative items like unique snow globes; notebooks and journals; toys, art supplies, novelty items for kids, and more.

An added gift: Purchases are tax free. All proceeds support Library services and programs.

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High school students were not around in the 1960s. Most of their parents were not, either.

But MoCA Westport is reaching back to that famous decade, while seeking submissions for their 2024 High School Student Art Exhibition.

The theme of the open call is “Through the Lens of Icons: Revisiting the 1960s.” The idea is to “reimagine the ’60s through your creative lens.” Individuals, moments or symbols that hold cultural, political or personal significance are welcome.

Categories include photography, painting, drawing, sculpture and video. Students may submit only one work each.

The deadline is December 1. For more details, including submission guidelines, click here.

President Kennedy, his wife Jackie and Texas Governor John Connolly, moments before the assassination that changed the world.

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The “bridge slide” portion of the I-95 project is over.

But construction delays remain.

Long ones.

Last night, Jo Shields Sherman reports, 3 state highway trucks were traveling south, “as fast as 5 miles an hour.” Police vehicles kept pace, preventing any vehicles from passing.

 

One view of I-95, from the Hillspoint Road bridge …

The view from the other side of the bridge seemed eerie, she says, with not a single vehicle in sight. Here’s what it looked like:

(Photos/Jo Shields Sherman)

By 8:30, traffic was moving well again.

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After a 3-year hiatus, Stephanie Bass returns to the stage.

Westport’s favorite 70something comedian offers her always-hilarious take on life — including getting older, and raising a kid from 5 to adulthood in this wonderful, odd, often (unintentionally) humorous town.

The free show (including both stand-up and storytelling) on November 17 (7 p.m., Westport Library) is presented by students of Verso University’s Stand-Up comedy series. The host is comedian (and course instructor) Mina Hartong.

Click here for more information.

Stephanie Bass, at the Gotham Comedy Club.

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Staples High School’s November Students of the Month are seniors Dylan Fiore and Dylan Walsh, juniors Will Boberski and Kate Weitz, sophomores Tyler Smalls and Mia Zibly, and freshmen Ishan Pasham and Eliza Wadley.

Students of the Month “help make Staples a welcoming place for their peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together, making it the special place that it is.”

November Students of the Month (from left): Dylan Walsh, William Boberski, Mia Zibly, Kate Weitz, Eliza Wadley. Not pictured: Dylan Fiore, Ishan Pasham, Tyler Smalls. 

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The Westport Library’s Big Fall Book Sale is set for 3 weeks before winter: December 1-4.

On sale: thousands of gently used books for children and adults in more than 50 categories, antiquarian books, vinyl records, music CDs, movie and TV DVDs, plus a limited selection of ephemera and artwork, and the “Fiction for $1” room.

Hours are Friday, December 1 (noon to 6 p.m.), Saturday, December 2 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Sunday, December 3 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m., nearly everything  half price), and Monday, December 4 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; fill logo bags for $8 or $10).

On December 1 (8:55 a.m. to noon), the book sale is open via an Early Access ticket (click here to buy). For more information, click here.

To volunteer at the sale, email volunteers@westportbooksales.org.

Can’t make the sale?  Visit the nonprofit Westport Book Shop across Jesup Green from the Library, or shop any time on the Book Sale’s Online Store, or eBay.

Westport Library Book Sale.

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It’s been a few days since Tracy Porosoff sent in this “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Hopefully, these flowers are still hanging on, in her backyard garden.

(Flowers/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … if high school students need a prompt to create art for MoCA Westport’s “1960s” exhibition (story above), there are tens of thousands of songs to choose from.

Here are 3:

(“06880” looks back often — and looks to the present and future always. Please help us continue our work. Click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, History, Library, Local business, Local politics, Staples HS, Teenagers, Transportation

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Roundup: Blue Ribbons, Kids’ Gifts, New Stop Sign …

Posted on November 9, 2023 | 10 comments

Jennifer Wolff writes:

“On Tuesday, in an effort sponsored by Temple Israel and the Jewish Federation, a few of us, including my friend Deborah Slade, met to tie blue ribbons around light poles and similar structures in town, to both heighten and maintain awareness of the hostages still being held in Gaza.

“I spent my time tying up the eastbound side of the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge. Someone followed me later on the other side, with ‘kidnapped’ posters. We didn’t work together, but it works well together.

“Blue ribbons will be going up all over town. Anyone who wants to tie one to a tree in their yard can get ribbons from Temple Israel or the Jewish Federation in Bridgeport.

“With all the fighting going on, not just in Israel/Gaz but all over the world, in the streets and on campuses and in coffee shops, we can’t forget the innocents trapped in those tunnels, fighting for their freedom, very possibly fighting for their lives … if indeed they are still living.”

Blue ribbons on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge. (Photo/Jennifer Wolff)

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Just in time for the holidays: Westport’s Department of Human Services’ Giving Program is back.

Donations from community members are a huge help to Westport families facing financial hardship. Dozens of families with school-aged children benefit each year from the program.

This year, rising costs for food, housing and fuel has added strains to many local budgets.

Gift cards and cash donations are matched with families, who then purchase food and simple holiday gifts for their children. Some also buy toiletries, shoes and clothing. Beneficiaries are anonymous.

The program enables parents to personalize their presents, and participate fully in the holiday season.

Residents and organizations can donate cash, checks or gift cards to the “Family to Family Seasonal Holiday Giving Program” online (click here). Contributions can also be dropped off (by appointment) at Town Hall, or mailed to the Department of Human Services c/o Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

Westport residents facing financial difficulties can contact Human Services at 203-341-1050 or humansrv@westportct.gov for confidential assistance.

Questions? Email adaugelli@westportct.gov or call 203-341-1183.

Every child deserves holiday gifts.

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Westport’s newest stop signs are at the 3-way intersection of Greens Farms Road and New Creek Road (the one that goes underneath I-95, past the train station, and on to Beachside Avenue).

Several “06880” readers were surprised.

The Board of Selectwomen authorized the signs because school buses are now parked at the station. They go in and out often, as cars zoom past on Greens Farms Road.

Or at least, they did zoom.

The new stop signs, looking east. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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Speaking of speeding (and other broken laws):

Westport Police made 6 custodial arrests between November 1 and 8.

A man was arrested for burglary, and conspiracy to commit burglary, after officers responded to a home security alarm.

A man was arrested for burglary and larceny after police responded to a burglary at Greens Farms Academy, and vandalism at the nearby Greens Farms train station.

A woman was arrested for burglary, after a resident awoke to find someone ransacking her kitchen.

A woman was arrested for following too closely and driving under the influence (marijuana and alcohol), after a motoro vehicle accident on Saugatuck Avenue near the train station.

Two men were arrested on warrants for failure to appear.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 11 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
  • Violation in a construction zone: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic commission signals: 2
  • Allowing possession of alcohol by a minor: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Illegal use of tinted glass: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1
  • Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1
  • Violation of license class: 1
  • Operating a motorcycle without endorsement: 1

If you ride a motorcycle, you better have the proper endorsement on your license. (Photo/Penny Pearlman)

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Speaking still of the law:

Over a dozen priceless works of art by Rembrandt, Vermeer and Degas disappeared from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston in the early hours of March 18, 1990.

Just before 2024’s WestportREADS selection “The Art Thief,” by Michael Finkel, comes Westport Library’s “Vanished” program (November 16, 7 p.m).

Panelists include Stephen Kurkjian, journalist and author of a book on the heist, “Master Thieves,“ and Robert Wittman, retired FBI agent and author of “Priceless: How I Went Undercover to Rescue the World’s Stolen Treasures.” Architect Allen Swerdlowe will moderate the discussion.

Click here for more information, and free registration.

Rembrandt’s “Christ in the Storm on the Sea of Galilee”: stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

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40 million Americans are food insecure — including 345,000 Connecticut residents.

Yet 30 to 40% of food in America is wasted, and 70% of that food is edible. Food waste is responsible for 8% of all greenhouse gas emissions in the US.

Haley Schulman, from the Fairfield County office of Food Rescue USA, told the  Westport Rotary Club this week that donating food is the best way to both feed our communities and protect our planet.

Food Rescue has saved 44 million pounds of food and 33 million meals in Fairfield County since its inception in 2011. They do it by picking up leftover food from stores, restaurants and schools, and delivering it to pantries and shelters.

For more information on Food Rescue, click here or email Haley@foodrescue.

Haley Schulman, at the Westport Rotary Club.

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It may be late to feature a great blue heron in our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

But this guy hasn’t yet flown south, from his perch on the Saugatuck River.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

Hurry up, dude. It will be winter before you know it!

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And finally … in honor of our new 3-way stop signs:

(Stap! Help support “06880.” Click here! Thank you!)

 

 

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Posted in Arts, Children, Downtown, Library, Police, Politics, Transportation

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Roundup: Historic Homes, Terrible Traffic, WWPT Winners …

Posted on November 6, 2023 | 5 comments

100 guests toured 4 unique houses yesterday.

Each was special, in its own way. All were impressive. The result was a very successful first-ever “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour.

Annette Norton’s small 1700s home on North Avenue was a great attraction for the many residents who drive by often, admire her exterior renovation, and wonder what’s inside.

Annette Norton (left) shows guests the original fireplace, with a mantel she found in upstate Connecticut. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Mark Yurkiw and Wendy Van Wie’s barn is a 2-story, wide-open, wood-paneled  delight that includes Mark’s artwork treasures in every corner.

A view of the Cross Highway barn, from the 2nd-floor landing. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Matt Burrows and Amy Gay surprised visitors to their 1742 home, also on Cross Highway. The exterior is a faithful restoration of a well-known, once-dilapidated property, while the interior is very modern, beautifully designed (by the owners), and open.

Matt Burrows (right) shows off the open floor plan he designed for his home. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Julia Gross and Mark Lamensdorf’s property on Old Hill Road delights at every turn, from original wooden beams and a formidable stone basement, to an old outhouse (now shed) in the back that “seats 3.”

The original door and beams in the original kitchen on Old Hill Road. (Photo/Amy Saperstein)

KMS Team at Compass co-sponsored the event. Karen Scott, Laurie Morris, Michael Mombello, Susan Seath and Karen Hagen were superb docents.

“06880” board members Amy Saperstein, Bill Scheffler and John Dodig (and his husband Rodger Lawrence) assisted, with help from Staples’ Service League of Boys.

“06880” often reports on Westporters who restore — rather than tear down — some of our oldest homes. Yesterday, readers went behind the scenes, to experience 4 of the homes they’d only read about before.

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Speaking of restored homes: Here’s another shot of the continuing work being done at 44 Compo Cove, perhaps the most photographed house in Westport.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

The bones of the 1917 home will remain.

But the interior will look very, very different.

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For the second weekend out of three, the feared “traffic-geddon” generated by the I-95 Saugatuck Avenue bridge replacement project was largely avoided.

Traffic flowed smoothly — well, as smoothly as our “new normal” on Friday night, all day Saturday, Sunday morning, and early Sunday afternoon.

Then — for the second Sunday afternoon out of 3 — Westport was suddenly gridlocked.

Just like 2 weeks ago, traffic materialized out of nowhere. And it was everywhere.

Saugatuck — and feeder arteries like Greens Farms Road and Bridge Street — were jammed.

A line of cars and trucks extended from the North Kings Highway/Wilton Road light, all the way past Hudson Malone.

And the stretch from Parker Harding Plaza to the Post Road/Riverside Avenue/Wilton Road cluster**** was as bad as its ever been.

Some drivers waited patiently. Others devised new maneuvers to try to gain an edge, creating (of course) further chaos.

The state Department of Transportation once again completed the “bridge slide” portion of the project ahead of schedule.

The southbound span of I-95 was open around 4:30 p.m. But traffic continued for quite a while on the mean streets of Westport.

“It defies logic,” says Dan Vener, who took this photo of I-95 traffic, while stuck in the ground-level jam:

(Photo/Dan Vener)

Meanwhile, for a fascinating time-lapse version of the “bridge slide” — from 6 p.m. Friday to 9 a.m. Sunday — click below:

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it’s an annual tradition.

But it never gets old.

This weekend, Staples High School’s WWPT-FM broadcasters traveled to Chicago for the John Drury Radio Awards ceremony.

The station earned 16 nominations. They earned 11 honors — all (as anyone who ever listens to 90.3 knows), very well deserved.

Congratulations to:

  • Best Station Advisor: Geno Heiter
  • Broadcaster of the Year winner: Charlie Scott
  • Broadcaster of the year finalists: Elise Eisenberger, Henry Manning & Katherine Spada
  • Best DJ: Charlie Scott
  • 2nd place, News Feature: Maya Brody
  • 2nd place, Newscast: Charlie Scott
  • 2nd place, Radio Drama (@playersinsta )
  • 3rd place Talk Show: Henry Manning & Charlie Scott
  • 3rd place, Sportscast: Elise Eisenberger & Charlie Scott
  • 3rd place, Sports Play by Play: Devon Jarvis & Mason Siskind
  • 3rd place, Specialty Music: Cooper Sadler

Other nominations garnered 4th and 5th places.

WWPT rocks!

And obviously, does much more too.

At the John Drury Awards (from left): WWPT-FM advisor Geno Heiter, Devon Jarvis, Maya Brody, Katherine Spada, Henry Manning, Charlie Scott.

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Jon Gailmor — the beloved Vermont musical icon — returned to his Westport home town yesterday, for a sold-out show at the VFW.

The 1966 Staples graduate was joined by a few talented friends: former classmates Rob Carlson (his singing partner from the 1970s) and Roger Kaufman, plus Suzanne Sheridan, the producer of the popular “First Folk Sunday” series.

It was a trip back to a magical musical time.

And just perfect for these days, too.

From left: Jon Gailmor, Roger Kaufman, Suzanne Sheridan, Rob Carlson. (Photo/Pam Washburn)

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Yesterday was jam-packed.

The Westport Arts Advisory Committee sponsored its annual TEA (Thinkers, Educators, Artists) Talk at the Westport Library.

A crowd of 150 people heard experts — including Emmy- and Grammy Award-winning 1971 Staples grad Brian Keane, town-wide K-12 arts coordinator Steve Zimmerman, and artist/arts consultant Liz Leggett — discuss “What’s Next for the Arts?,” as it faces challenges from artificial intelligence.

Topics included whether or not AI poses an existential risk to the arts; the role of education; the pure joy of making art, and — intriguingly — how we decide what is real, not real, and “authentic.” Does, in fact, “authentic” matter at all?

Panelists used AI tools to create illustration and art, using prompts from attendees. Artists showed traditional techniques.

There was a lot to think about.

And every comment was generated by humans.

Panelists — each under their photo — at yesterday’s TEA Talk.

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Field Trip jerky — the very popular producer of healthy, protein-rich snacks ranging from beef, chicken, turkey and pork to jalapeño, cracked pepper and everything bagel — is headquartered in downtown Westport.

But it reaches all over the country.

Literally.

The other day, Bruce Miller and his wife were in Alaska. On a tour of Denali National Park, guests received a snack box.

Inside was a Field Trip Cracked Pepper Turkey Stick.

“We traveled 4,400 miles from home to enjoy a local treat!” he says.

You don’t have to go to The Last Frontier.

Field Trip is sold at retailers like Stop & Shop and CVS.

And in their only retail outlet, next to their Post Road offices opposite Design Within Reach.

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Artists Collective of Westport member Maj Kalfus’ work is featured at the Weston Senior Center, through the end of December. Her 30 pieces include oil paintings, collage, brush and ink, graphite, digital art and drawings from life.

A reception is set for November 16 (6 to 8 p.m.). Kalfus teaches at the Westport Senior Center. Her portrait of Ella Fitzgerald was featured at the recent Westport Country Playhouse tribute to the jazz singer.

Works by Maj Kalfus

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As we head into mid-fall — with winter not too far away — this is the “Westport … Naturally” scene from Ellen Wentworth’s living room:

(Photo/Ellen Wentworth)

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And finally … in honor of our great “Historic Homes of 06880” tour (story above):

(A lot went on this weekend — and, as always, “06880” previewed, and now reviews, it. If you enjoy our hyper-local coverage, please consider a contribution. Click here — and thank you!)

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