Category Archives: Arts

Roundup: Downtown Parking, Remarkable Theater, Alcohol Sales …

Posted on August 17, 2023 | 11 comments

Free parking is still available throughout downtown.

But — like before the pandemic — there will soon be some limits.

Yesterday, the Board of Selectwomen voted to bring back the pre-COVID regulations. With a tweak or two.

All “timed” town lots will now be 3 hours long, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The previous restrictions were 1 and 2 hours, depending on location.

553 public spots downtown will be limited to 3 hours. Another 800 or so remain unlimited.

Approximately 700 more spaces are in private parking lots.

The vote was 2-1. Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore favored the 3-hour plan, with Candice Savin opposed.

The new rules are effective September 1.

“Open parking” will remain in some areas of downtown — but not all.

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Encore!

The Board of Selectwomen yesterday agreed to a request from the Remarkable Theater to use the Imperial Avenue parking lot from August 28 through November 3.

This marks the 4th year for the popular Imperial Avenue pop-up drive-in. The “curtain rose” for the first 3 — beginning with the socially distanced season of 2020 — in late spring.

A schedule will be announced soon. Meanwhile, representatives of any organization interested in sponsoring a movie should contact Doug Tirola: doug@4throwfilms.com.

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The July real estate report is out.

After years of COVID-fueled frothy growth, trends appear to be leveling, according to Judy Michaelis.

Some July 2023 statistics, with July 2022 (in parentheses) for comparison:

  • New listings: 40 (48)
  • Number of properties for sale: 97 (124)
  • Number of properties sold: 53 (48)
  • Average days on market: 61 (55)
  • Average list price: $3,023,148 ($2,752,077)
  • Median list price: $2,450,000 (2,137,500)
  • Sales price/list price ratio: 103.8% (105.4%)
  • Average sales price per square foot: $574 ($726)

Click here for a full report. (Hat tip: Judy Michaelis)

The most expensive property for sale in Westport right now is this 9-bedroom, 8 1/2-bathroom, 10,959-square foot home on 3 acres, at 50 Sylvan Road North. It is listed for $3.9 million.

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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between August 9 and 16.

A man at the International Wine Shop was charged with illegal sale of alcohol to a minor after 2 18-year-olds were seen leaving the store after making a purchase. He confirmed he had not checked identification of the buyer.

An investigation into the theft of a motor vehicle and credit cards led to charges of larceny, payment card theft, illegal transfer, fraud, forgery, illegal use of a payment card and identity theft.

A woman was arrested on a warrant for failure to appear.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 5 citations
  • Failure to obey traffic control signal: 3
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1

Off-limits to anyone under 21.

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Speaking of police: Around 4:44 p.m. on August 7, Awesome Toys reported the theft of a “Traxxas” truck and art supplies.

Captured on film, the suspect appears to be 6-2, 220 pounds.

Four days later, on August 11, the same man returned. He filled 2 large bags with items, and left without paying.

Suspect in Awesome Toys theft.

Westport Police ask for help identifying the suspect.  Email swongwon@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-6080.

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Two Connecticut residents died after contracting infections from a flesh-eating bacteria that can be caused by eating raw oysters or swimming in saltwater, the New York Times reports. A third person survived.

“Infections from the bacteria, called Vibrio vulnificus, are rare but extremely dangerous. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in five people who become infected die. Many survivors lose limbs to amputations, according to the C.D.C.”

People with open wounds should avoid swimming in warm seawater. Those with compromised immune systems should be careful eating or handling raw seafood.

Vibriosis is caused by a bacteria found in salt water, during warm weather. Symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, fever and chills, slong with ear infections, sepsis and life-threatening wound infections.

Two of the state victims had open cuts, in Long Island Sound. A third became sick after eating raw oysters, though not at a restaurant here. Their towns were not identified.

As ocean temperatures rise, infections may spread.

The Times notes,”Connecticut has seen a few cases in recent years. One person died of a Vibrio vulnificus infection in the state in 2019. In 2020, five cases were reported; all recovered. The people who became infected had open wounds and were exposed to salt or brackish water.”

Inspectors have never detected the infection in Connecticut’s commercial oysters. Click here for the full story.

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Speaking of the Times: Its “Ethicist” column often tackles thorny issues.

Yesterday’s will resonate with many Westporters. A reader wrote:

I live on Cape Cod, and I have recently noticed something of a current trend in which beachgoers claim valuable (and sometimes scarce) real estate by arriving several hours early to set up chairs, blankets and umbrellas before leaving to return (in some cases several hours later) to eventually move into their pre-claimed territory.

I always thought that you had to be on hand to occupy some piece of public space. Does an empty chair or blanket constitute actual occupancy? Do such phantom claims have any merit? Would someone have the right to ignore such maneuvers by removing these chairs or blankets? If so, what should be the response to the claimant who might return to find their items no longer claiming possession? 

“The Ethicist” replied:

The aim of such public space is to allow as many people as possible to make the proper use of it. That aim is undermined by absentee claims that prevent others from enjoying a spot on the beach for extended periods. It’s fine to leave evidence of occupancy if you’re just going off to get an ice cream, say, or to visit a restroom. If you do this, though, it might be wise to leave an explanatory note. (“10:15, buying a snack, back by 10:45.”) That’s within the spirit of the social convention. But your beach-blanket buccaneers are abusing this convention and effectively privatizing what should be public.

At the same time, moving other people’s things isn’t to be done lightly. You’ll certainly want to be sure that their owners haven’t just stepped away for an acceptable interval. The social conventions about claiming areas in these public settings are not, of course, precise. Half an hour or so strikes me as a good marker in most such circumstances, but take a poll among people you know. If the beach-spot hogs return while you’re around, you can show them where their possessions are and tell them that you waited for a while and assumed they were not returning. (Should you ever mistakenly displace a bathroom-breaker, you should apologize and immediately cede the spot.)

It’s best when these issues can be settled through social, rather than statutory, means. Certain beach towns in Spain, I’ll note, punish such infractions with stiff fines on beach-spot hogs; the Italian Coast Guard has even seized unattended towels, umbrellas and chairs, holding them until their owners pay a penalty. Let’s hope that at your beach, norms and social sanctions will eventually suffice to discourage these parasol-planting land-grabbers.

Remember that the next time you’re heading to the fireworks.

Or — on any day — thinking of reserving one of those South Beach picnic tables that say (quite clearly) “Tables May Not Be Reserved.” (Hat tip: Jay Petrow)

Reserving early spots for the fireworks, 2018. The arms race has grown substantially since then. (Photo/Doris Ghitelman)

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Tomorrow (Friday, August 18) is the opening for Sorelle Gallery’s “On View” exhibition, with abstract artist Deborah T. Colter.

The Martha’s Vineyard-based artist layers found materials, handmade paper, paint, and other media to create abstract collages.

The show is open Tuesday through Saturday (10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sundays noon to 4 p.m.). Click here for more information.

Deborah T. Colter’s “On View,” at Sorelle Gallery.

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Westporters love the ornamental plantings at Grace Salmon Park.

It’s also now home to this zucchini. Perhaps it wandered over from the Farmers’ Market, next door on Imperial Avenue?

However it got there, it’s a great image for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Peggy O’Halloran)

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And finally … today marked the penultimate day for the 1969 Woodstock festival.

Were you there? If so, click “Comments” below to share memories!

Meanwhile, enjoy 3 of the most famous performances from this day, 54 years ago:

(You may have missed Woodstock. But you don’t have to miss a chance to support “06880.” Please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Local politics, Police, Real estate

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Roundup: Caroline House, YMCA Boxing, Greens Farms Train Station …

Posted on August 16, 2023 | 2 comments

Karen La Costa — a Westport Community Gardens gardener — also volunteers at Caroline House in Bridgeport.

They help women and children “reach the fullness of their potential through education in English language and life skills.”

On Monday, Karen invited co-worker Francisca, her children and Caroline House students for an afternoon in the garden.

They enjoyed identifying squash, eggplant, watermelon, peppers and all types of flowers. They were amazed at the size of Karen’s soon-to-bloom giant sunflower.

Donations of potatoes and onions from a fellow gardener were turned into Welcome Home Soup for Francisca’s mom, who arrived that night from the Dominican Republic.


Caroline House visitors, with sunflowers.

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A year ago, Bob Levy and his wife Doree joined the Westport Weston Family YMCA. They swim up to 5 times a week, and love it: the welcome at the front desk, the lifeguards, all the staff.

Six months ago, Bob noticed a woman teaching someone how to box. She introduced herself as Brenda Waldron,  the instructor for a class of people with Parkinson’s.

Despite never having hit anyone (or been hit) in his 77 years of life, he told her he’d love to volunteer.

“The class has a great group of people,” Bob says. “It’s filled with  positive energy and camaraderie. Boxing makes people stronger, gives them better balance, even helps with memory.” He has witnessed its benefits for people with Parkinson’s first hand.

A couple of weeks ago, he gave shirts to the group. He gave Chalk Talk Sports of Norwalk a slogan — “Knock Parkinson’s Out”; quickly, they provided a design.

On Monday, Bob handed out the shirts. Members were delighted.

“This class is a perfect example of of when one gives, they receive much more,” Bob says.

The “Knock Parkinson’s Out” class, and their classy shirts.

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The Metro-North Transit Museum — next to the stationmaster’s office in Grand Central Terminal — has a new exhibit.

This one includes a photo and writeup about the Greens Farms station:

It’s guaranteed to stop local travelers in their, um, tracks. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)

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Two officials from the Bridgeport Rescue Mission were guest speakers at the Westport Rotary Club’s lunch meeting yesterday.

The organization  provides meals, safe housing, clothing, free health care (including mental and dental), and access to other human services organizations.

Volunteer coordinator Sarah McDonagh was particularly impactful, as she discussed her personal experiences as a resident in the Addiction Recovery Program.

Bridgeport Rescue Mission development director Craig Adler and volunteer coordinator Sarah McDonagh at yesterday’s Rotary Club lunch.

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Yesterday’s “06880” Roundup noted a potential new Bravo show, following “rich Connecticut families” and their children.

Among the potential stars: Westport’s actress/blogger Eva Amurri and comedian Courtney Davis.

We missed one other cast member from Westport: Kate Freeman.

Apologies for not being on top of all the local gossip!

The cast includes Westporters (center) Eva Amurri and (right) Kate Freeman. 

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The Joggers Club is warming up for the fall season.

They start with (of course) a party on Saturday, September 2 (7 p.m.).

Then they’ll begin their fun runs (which, as always, end with coffee, bagels and muffins). The season “runs” every Saturday (8 a.m. at the Greens Farms train station — “all weather, all seasons, all good”).

Track Nights are held every Thursday (6:30 p.m., Staples High School). The season “runs” from September 9 through June 29.

The Joggers Club is for all paces, distances and levels. All are welcome. Their motto is: “If you’re not having fun, you’re not doing it right.”

The cost is $50 for the season. New members get a free custom Brooks racing shirt ($32 value).

For more information, including membership, click here.

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“Quiet Places” — the new show at Amy Simon Fine Art — opens Saturday (August 19), and runs through September 23.

Featured artists are Barry Katz, Paul Shakespear and David Skillicorn.

“No. 6,” encaustic over plaster (Barry Katz)

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Patricia Burrows died Monday, at her home Weston home. She was 77.

A psychotherapist for more than 50 years, she was very involved in her communities of  New York, Weston, Mendocino, California, and Mount Holly, Vermont. She was also a highly regarded “surrogate mother.”

She is survived by her husband of over 50 years, Milton Wolfson; children Jordan, Jessica, Jody Emmet and Tracy; brothers Jonathan (Annie) and Kenneth (Erica Jong), and grandchildren Maximiliana Warburg, Henri Emmet, Hana Zeramby, Dylan Zeramby, Lucas Lovelace and Naomi Lovelace, and puppy Lucy.

A memorial service will be held tomorrow (Thursday, August 17, noon, Abraham L. Green and& Son Funeral Home, Fairfield, CT). Visitation with the family begins at 11 a.m.

A reception will be held immediately following the service at the family home in Weston.

Shiva is planned for Weston (Friday and Saturday August 18-19, 2 to 6 p.m.) and New York (Sunday, August 20, 2 to 6 p.m.).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Homes with Hope.

Patty Burrows

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We sometimes think of May as “flower time” around here. That’s certainly a month of riotous colors.

But — as Susan Garment’s “Westport … Naturally” photo reminds us today, there’s plenty of vibrancy in mid-August too.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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And finally … in honor of Bob Levy’s gift to his YMCA class (story above):

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. Every day, we bring you a Roundup of stories — and much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Obituaries, YMCA

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Online Art Gallery #174

Posted on August 12, 2023 | 4 comments

Several intriguing abstract works highlight this week’s online gallery.

Of course, age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone is invited to contribute.

All genres are encouraged. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage and (yes) 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.)

“Un Peu Bleu” — acrylic resin abstract (Patricia McMahon)

“Floral Neuron Network” (Ken Runkel)

“‘Scene’ From Above” — acrylic paint and pouring medium (Amy Schneider)

Untitled (Tom Doran)

“Summer Adventures: Oh, The Places We Love!” (Dorothy Robertshaw)

“Fishing Vessel Samantha Brooke, Gulls and Lighthouse” (Peter Barlow)

“My Father’s Soul” — Photographer Sharon Paulsen shot this in her father’s backyard on Sanibel Island, Florida in August 2017, a week before he died.

“I Am Not Lichen My New Skin Lotion” (Mike Hibbard)

 

“It’s a Stretch” (Lawrence Weisman)

“Julie’s Office, Circa 1989” — Steve Stein says, “Julie was my father-in-law, a great family man and a motion picture ad guy handling many of the accounts seen on the wall behind him.”

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

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Roundup: White Oak, Horseshoe Crabs, Shorefest …

Posted on August 10, 2023 | 6 comments

The delay in removing a white oak tree on Appletree Trail was only temporary.

This was the scene yesterday:

(Photo/Cathy Morrison)

The property will be redeveloped, with a new home and pool.

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The final summer meet-up for Club 203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — is Monday (August 14, 6 to 7:30 p.m.) at MoCA. The evening includes a chance to make art.

Season 2 begins September 20. Details will be announced soon. Click here for more information on the club.

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As crabbers flock nightly to Sherwood Mill Pond and Old Mill Beach, they’ve lost one species: horseshoe crabs.

Yesterday, Governor Lamont signed a bill banning the harvest of horseshoe crabs in Connecticut waters.

The legislation was sought by advocates who say that the population in Long Island Sound has plummeted in recent years. Thousands of horseshoe crabs are captured each year, often for use by fishermen as bait in traps to catch whelk and eels.

Many are also captured by the biomedical industry, which uses blood from horseshoe crabs for vaccine research.

The population decline has also raised concerns from organizations dedicated to the conservation of birds, who say that migratory shorebirds like the red knot rely on horseshoe crab eggs for food during their annual migration to the Arctic.

New Jersey, Delaware and South Carolina have adopted similar bans.

Compo Beach horseshoe crab (Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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One of the most enjoyable sites for a fundraiser is the main pavilion at Sherwood Island State Park.

That’s the site for Shorefest. Set for September 8 (6 to 9 p.m.), it’s the only time of the year guests can stay at the park past sunset.

The evening includes food, live jazz piano, a silent auction (and of course, a Sherwood Island sunset).

Catering by Westfair Fish & Chips includes lobster, steak, salmon or vegetarian, plus appetizers, salad, dessert and beverages. Burgers and hot dogs are available for youngsters.

All proceeds support the habitat restoration, education and advocacy work of Friends of Sherwood Island State Park. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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MoCA’s annual benefit — set for September 30 (7 p.m.) — has a special theme: “The Surrealist Soirée.”

The evening includes imaginative décor, avant-garde performers, a DJ, auction, and catering by Marcia Selden. Guests are encouraged to “dress creatively in line with the evening’s surrealist theme.” Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Saugatuck Rowing Club has a world champion!

Rosie Lundberg of Westport won gold recently, in the women’s U19 4+ race at the World Junior Rowing Championships in Paris.

Two other SRC athletes competed as well. Fairfielderes Ella Casano placed 4th in the women’s U19 8+, while Fairfield’s George Bentley was 5th in the mens’ U19 4+. Both are coxwsains.

The World competition followed SRC’s strong performance at the US Rowing Summer Nationals in Ohio last month.

Rosie Lundberg (center) and her Saugatuck Rowing Club gold medal-winning teammates. (Photo/Row2k)

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Gabriele’s Italian Steakhouse welcomed a special guest the other night.

Governor Ned Lamont and his wife Annie dined at the restaurant, next to the Westport Country Playhouse.

A few diners chatted with the state’s leader, but most let him enjoy a good meal, quietly.

If they recognized him at all.

Governor Ned Lamont (left) and Danny Gabriele, owner of Gabriele’s Italian Steakhouse.

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If you’ve always wondered about “Uncovering the Non-Spherical Shapes of Bodies Beyond Neptune,” you’re in luck!

Darin Ragozzine — associate professor at Brigham Young University — will discuss that exact topic on next Tuesday (August 15, 8 p.m.), through the Westport Astronomical Society’s free science lecture series.

Click here for the YouTube livestream.

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Westporters are familiar with much of our town’s coastline.

But we don’t always get to see a view from Cedar Point Yacht Club.

Here’s a shot, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Eileen Lavigne Flug)

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And finally, musical giant Robbie Robertson died yesterday in Los Angeles, after a long illness.

The lead guitarist and chief songwriter for The Band — the seminal Americana folk/rock/country/gospel group (including 4 Canadians, and only 1 American) — was 81.

The New York Times obituary quotes him: “I wanted to write music that felt like it could’ve been written 50 years ago, tomorrow, yesterday — that had this lost-in-time quality.” Click here for the full story.

(From Westport to Neptune and beyond, “06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Environment, Restaurants

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Art In The (Community) Garden

Posted on August 6, 2023 | 18 comments

Dozens of Westporters of all ages flocked to the Community Gardens yesterday.

Gardeners, artists and art-lovers alike celebrated the Gardens’ 20th anniversary with an “Art in the Gardens” event.

In collaboration with the Artists Collective of Westport, they created art in the 100-plot garden itself, and the adjoining Long Lots Preserve.

Community Gardens director Lou Weinberg calls it “a smashing success. People seeing this for the first time really get that ‘Oh, wow!’ reaction.

“It’s a pleasure to show them what we’ve created here. We are proud to share these 2 fabric-of-the-community, environmental and educational assets.”

Next up: a Westport Community Gardens pop-up (August 27, 1 p.m.).

(All photos/Lou Weinberg)

Community Gardens members Pam Barkentin and Karen LaCosta coordinated the event, with help from Miggs Burroughs of the Westport Artists Collective.

(“06880” covers Westport’s arts and environmental news — and much more — regularly. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Environment

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Online Art Gallery #173

Posted on August 5, 2023 | 5 comments

A new artist (George Radwan) joins us this week, with a new type of mixed media (concrete, plaster, sand and Structo-lite).

Welcome, George!

He knows what this online art gallery is about. Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone is invited to contribute.

All genres are encouraged. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage and (yes) 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.)

“Nightscape” (Tom Doran)

Untitled (Karen Weingarten)

“The Rivers Run Wild” (Dorothy Robertshaw)

“Fairfield County Vintage” (Peter Barlow)

Untitled. Photographer Diane Yormark explains, “Two men ‘understand one another and what it’s like to put in a full day’s work.’” — Calgary, Alberta 

“Three Buddhas” — mixed media: concrete, plaster, sand, Structo-lite (George Radwan)

“I’m Beautiful! And Proud of it!” — Tanzania (Mike Hibbard)

“Is it Amadeo Modigliani’s Modigliani or is it AI?” (Steve Stein)

“Old Truck on Old Road” (Lawrence Weisman)

“Finger Painting” (Santiago Lozano)

“Lake Fire” (Ken Runkel)

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

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Arts Legacy Lives In Beach Back Yard

Posted on August 3, 2023 | 9 comments

Nearly every evening, Andrew Colabella heads to Compo Beach to enjoy the sunset.

Even the drive there is calming. But on Sunday, as he turned onto Bradley Street, he saw something unusual.

There — at the stop sign midway to Compo Beach Road — he noticed a number of large canvases, spread throughout a backyard.

Was someone moving in? Moving out? Was it a private outdoor pop-up art show?

He stopped to see.

A man sat in back by a table, looking at his phone. Andrew stood at the edge of the lawn, mesmerized by the abstract art and abundant colors.

“Hello,” the man said gently.

Andrew asked if he could wander around. He usually saw art like this peering through windows, walking or driving by a home. He’d never seen it spread out across a lawn.

Warmly and eagerly, the man told Andrew about his art.

His name is David Johnson. He spent his life working in advertising, in Chicago.

His friend, a sculptor, had a studio with a little corner for an easel and canvases. David discovered a waye to express his creativity in a form other than advertising.

With a dream and a vision, his images bled on to the canvas from his soaked paintbrush.

His friend and other artists were taken aback by his talent, a gift he had not known he had.

They urged him, “get a gallery! Rent one out, host a show, sell it — show it!”

David asked, “How?”

With a bit of  support from friends, his art was showcased. It is now bought around the country.

David’s wife, Holly Jaffe Johnson — fashionable, warm and energetic — greeted me — invited me into their house.

The Von Castelberg Cottage was once a little brown home. It’s now been restored and revitalized, with Norman Rockwell-esque charm.

They moved here in 2019. Andrew began telling them about Westport’s history — a refuge for the wealthy, but also a home for creative artists from around the world.

David and Holly have a deep appreciation for Westport’s past. Andrew puts them “in the same category as those artists — and more importantly, with those who moved to town with a deep love, passion and understanding of Westport, what it is and what it means.

“They improved and respected its history, but also shared their artistic gift.”

Andrew calls the event “an impromptu, amazing greeting and conversation with an Odysseus sirens-like calling, but through visual stimulation and colorful abstract canvases that called me to trespass into a midsummer night’s dream of bountiful color.”

Andrew realized he must not be the only person who noticed the art.

David and Holly told him that 3 pieces had just sold. They were making their way to fellow Westporter — and artist in his own way — Christian Soriano.

“Always keep your eye out in Westport,” Andrew says.

“The legacy and gifts of our artists could be right behind your fence, down the street — or on your way to the beach.”

(All photos/Andrew Colabella)

(“06880” covers Compo Beach, the arts — and everything else going on in town — 24/7/365. Please support our work. Just click here. Thank you!) 

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Westport Artists Offer Works To Support Lyman

Posted on August 1, 2023 | 1 comment

One of the highlights of the recent LymanAID fundraiser for Westport’s sister city was an art show.

Mark Yurkiw put out the call for contributions. Many fellow Artists Collective of Westport members responded.

Some works were Ukrainian-themed. Others were not.

All are very, very special.

Most of the artwork was bought by attendees at the event. But a few remain.

Now Mark and the Artists Collective are offering them for sale through “06880.” All proceeds from the donated works benefit Lyman thanks to Ukraine Aid International, the Westport-founded organization that delivers relief directly where it’s needed most.

Available works are shown below, with estimated values. Readers are asked to offer at least 50% of the value — though, Mark says, “we hope you’ll be guided by your generosity to support the people in our war-torn sister city.”

Call 646-873-0050 to ensure that the art you hope to purchase is still available. You can also make an appointment to see the art in person, before buying.

When you are ready to purchase, call 646-873-0050 to schedule a pick-up. You can then make your donation by clicking the Ukraine Aid International website. Under the “Designation” dropdown menu, select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.”

“These are the best of our local artists, whose work is collected far and wide, Mark says.

“Their donations are outstanding examples of their work. Their generosity is overwhelming. “We were bowled over by the quality of the artists, and the works they offered. All we can say is ‘wow’ and ‘thank you!'”

Browse away. Then call, donate, and pick up.

Our sister city of Lyman thanks you!

Miggs Burroughs: Miggs is a lifelong Westporter. His work is represented in museums, and has been exhibited and collected extensively. Click here for more work information on Miggs Burroughs.

“Buddha & Shrine” (above). This large lenticular photo is mounted and ready to hang (18”x 22”). Estimated value: $600-$900.This is a limited edition, signed by the artist on the reverse.

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Mark Yurkiw: “Yearning to Breathe Free” (above); sculpture, 4″ x 4″ x 4”; Plexiglass case mounted 3D print of original human size crouched Statue of Liberty; originally commissioned for coat drives that raised almost 2 million coats for the homeless. 3-D print signed for Ukraine. Estimated value: $250. Multiple limited edition 3-D printings are available.

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Norm Siegel’s work has been accepted by Ambassador Oksana Makarova at the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington. Norm primarily works in the photo realistic style. He offers 4 works. To see more, click here.

“Untitled” (above) depicts the colors of the Ukrainian flag, oozing red between the blue sky and yellow fields which the flag represents. Oil on canvas, 16″ x 20”; estimated value, $250-500.

“Twist and Shout” (above); photorealistic abstract, oil on canvas, 30″ x 30”; estimated value, $1500-2250.

“Russo’s Roses” (above); oil on canvas, 18″ x 24″; estimated value, $1000-1500.

Norm Siegel: “Ode to a Geode” (above); oil on canvas, framed, 26″ x 32″; estimated value, $1500-2,500.

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Suzanne Benton has exhibited her works extensively. Click here for more information.

“Morning (Taos Series)” (above); small acrylic abstract, framed borderless, 6″ x 6″; Estimated value, $100.

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George Radwan: To learn more about this artist, click here.

“Doorways” (above); sculpture mixed media, 4″ x 10″ x 11″. This is 1 out of 9 of an original series; each is a unique doorway. In this piece, the graphic “A” refers to anarchy. Estimated value, $1500-2000.

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Joanie Landau: To learn more about this artist, click here.

“We Need You Emma Lazarus” (above); digital collagraph, 20” x 20”; estimated value, $860. The title refers to the Statue of Liberty poem by Emma Lazarus.

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Lynne Arovas: To learn more about this artist, click here.

“Where Sky Meets Sea” (above); acrylic impasto painting, 13.5″ x 13.5”; framed and signed; estimated value, $300.

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David Black (1931-2022) worked in acrylic, and is widely collected. His career and talents included violinist, opera singer, actor, director, playwright, author and award-winning Broadway producer. This painting is donated by Wendy Van Wie to benefit Lyman in memory of David, who lived in Stonington.

“Provence, France” (above); large 38″ x 47” impressionist landscape, framed. Estimated value: $3500-5000.  

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Julie Leff: To learn more about this artist, click here.

“Serenity” (above); 27″ x 32” bouquet of photo realistic flowers; limited edition 2/25 digital print, with certificate of authenticity; framed. Estimated value: $450.

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Robert Anderson: “Portrait of my Wife” (above), 36″ x 36”; original acrylic airbrush painting; framed rounded walnut corners with linen beveled matt. Surreal figurative portrait of Mrs. Anderson. This style is identified as the most popular trend by ArtNet today, but it was painted c. 1982. It is donated in memory of the artist for Lyman, by Wendy Van Wie.

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Online Art Gallery #172

Posted on July 29, 2023 | Comments Off on Online Art Gallery #172

The titles of many of this week’s artworks are as simple as their subjects.

Latches, wallflowers, bees, bulbs, clouds — they’re everyday parts of our world.

But, as always, our “06880” artists see and share them in many different, unique and thought-provoking ways.

That’s the magic of our online gallery.

Of course, we could not do it without you. Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone is invited to contribute.

All genres are encouraged. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage and (yes) 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.)

“Sunset Sail” (Ken Runkel)

“Bumble Bee” — pencil on paper (Clayton Liotta)

“Banff, Alberta” (Diane Yormark)

“Wallflowers” (Ellin Spadone)

“Bulbs” (Tom Doran)

“Latches” (Peter Barlow)

“Water Magic” (Jerry Kuyper)

“Clouds” (Ellen Lavigne Flug)

“Flaws 5” (Santiago Lozano)

Nepal. “He is a pillar of the community,” says photographer Mike Hibbard.

“Sir Walter Raleigh 2.0” (Steve Stein)

“At Rest” (Lawrence Weisman)

“Sunset at Falmouth, Massachusetts” (Laurie Sorensen)

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

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Roundup: Rainbows, Community Gardens, Septic Trucks …

Posted on July 28, 2023 | 7 comments

Yesterday’s brief but heavy rain inspired several “06880” photographers.

Here’s what they saw:

Clouds roll in over Compo’s South Beach (Photo/Eileen Lavigne Flug)

Rain over  Sherwood Mill Pond … (Photo/Matt Murray)

… and Longshore. (Photo/Tanya Sprague LaClair)

Rainbow at the YMCA … (Photo/Hana Jones)

… and at Wakeman Field. (Photo/Luca Caniato)

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Last night’s rain also forced the cancellation of the Levitt Pavilion’s headline act, Theo Kandell. It’s been rescheduled for Saturday, August 5.

But to show his appreciation for everyone who stayed despite the downpour, he serenaded them with 3 acoustic songs on the upper terrace.

The opening act — Staples High School graduate Michael Cantor and his band — was delayed. But they eventually played, to great applause.

Theo Kandell’s “private” set on the Levitt terrace. (Photo and hat tip/ Matthew Mandell)

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The Westport Community Gardens near Long Lots Elementary School is 20 years old.

The town’s arts heritage stretches back 100 years.

On Saturday, August 5 (all day: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.), the Gardens celebrate that arts legacy.

“Art in the Garden” is a day of enjoying the natural beauty of the Gardens — and a chance for everyone to make art, or take photos, there.

The event is a collaboration with the Artists Collective of Westport.

Children are welcome. For more information on the Westport Community Gardens, click here.

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Every year the Westport Police Department, in conjunction with the Public Works Department and Aspetuck Health District, conducts a safety inspection of garbage and septic vehicles that do business in town.

This week, it took place at the Imperial Avenue parking lot. Approximately 70 trucks passed the inspection, allowing them to use town facilities.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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A few hours ago — at 2 a.m., to be exact — Westporter John Sharian began running the Pemi Loop in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

His goal is to raise awareness of —  and donations for — Frontline Healing Foundation. The non-profit supports the unmet addiction and PTSD needs of servicemembers.

The 30-mile loop includes 10,000 feet of vertical elevation.

This is not part of a large event. It’s Sharian’s solo desire to highlight the  foundation’s work, and the many people they heal.

His goal is $10,000. Click here now — as he’s in the mountains — to help.

PS: This is not Sharian’s first rodeo (or run). Last year he completed the Presidential Peaks solo.

John Sharian

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Businessman/private equity manager/former Milwaukee Bucks co-owner Marc Lasry is a longtime Beachside Avenue resident.

He did not get to be a billionaire by passing up investment opportunties.

In 2021 he paid $17.5 million for a 20-acre property — with a century-old home, boathouse, pool and pool house, tennis court and more, just around the corner in Fairfield. Like his Westport property, it’s right on the water.

The property had been abandoned. Taxes were nearly $600,000 a year. (“Could you imagine?” Lasry said.)

So — to preserve its history, and keep it from condominium-minded developers — he subdivided it into 7 plots. He built a private road, and remodeled the main house. It’s 18,000 square feet, with a 6-car garage.

It just sold for $9.375 million, to a trust related to actor Jensen Ackles (“Supernatural”).

The 1923 Tudor boathouse, meanwhile, sold for $8 million.

Lasry’s daughter Emma spent $5 million for a vacant parcel. Four more parcels remain, listed at $4.5 million to $7.5 million.

That info, and more — including the history of the previously abandoned multi-million-dollar house, and photos of the renovation — are part of a Wall Street Journal story. Click here to read it. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)

Marc Lasry’s 20-acre Fairfield property, with its main house (left-center) and boathouse. (Photo/Borgatta for Wall Street Journal)

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Bridgeport’s Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater has become one of the most popular music venues in the state.

Just this year it’s hosted the Beach Boys, Temptations, Willie Nelson, James Taylor, the Four Tops, Rod Stewart, Jackson Browne, Santana and more.

On August 3 (7 p.m., Westport Library), Howard Saffan — owner, developer and president — offers an insider’s look at the entertainment facility.

He’ll describe how he converted a traditional stadium into a noted amphitheater, and a performance home to superstars.

Wine and cheese will be served. The event is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

An audience Q-and-A will follow Saffan’s presentation. Here’s my question: “Is it difficult to market a performance space in Bridgeport that has ‘Hartford’ in its name?”

The Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater (in Bridgeport).

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After interviewing 9 candidates, the Democratic Town Committee has recommended Jeff Hammer to complete the Board of Finance position being vacated by Nancie Dupier. The long-time member is moving out of town.

Hammer is also recommended to run with Danielle Dobin this fall, for the BOF.

Hammer has spent 35 years in finance He has spent the past 4 1/2 years on Westport’s Pension Investment Committee.

The full DTC will vote on the recommendation next Monday (7:30 p.m., Zoom; click here for the link). Registered Democrats may nominate other candidates from the floor.

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Jerry Kuyper spotted — and photographed — today’s “06880” subject in the back yard of his Rayfield Road home.

Recent rains have “created a good environment for growth,” he notes.

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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Judge Kevin O’Grady, formerly of Westport and Weston, died peacefully at the Jewish Senior Services facility in Bridgeport, after a long illness. Surrounded by his family, he was 76.

Kevin grew up in Manhattan and Westport, including summers at Old Mill Beach. He graduated from Fairfield Prep as a Merit Scholarship finalist. After graduating from Southampton College he spent 4 years traveling the world in the Merchant Marines. He then continued his education, graduating cum laude from Boston University School of Law.

He shared an office with Tony Slez in Westport, where he practiced for many years. In 1999 Kevin was elected probate judge for Westport and Weston. He served for most of 4 terms, until his retirement in 2013.

His family said he was “treasured for his humor, warmth and answers on all questions about plants, cars, home improvement and the law.’

Kevin is survived by his son Sean (Heather) and their children Molly and Dylan O’Grady of Northford, Connecticut; son TJ (Jenny) and their children Max and Isaac of Lutherville, Maryland; brothers Terence (Jenny) of Sandy Hook, and Martin (Julie) of Westport; nephews Terence O’Grady (Nancy) of Sandy Hook, John O’Grady (Christine) of Sandy Hook; Robert O’Grady (Natalia) of Vero Beach, Florida; niece Katherine Stromsky (Joseph) of Sandy Hook; niece Tara O’Grady of Jensen Beach, Florida; nephew Liam O’Grady of Westport; first wife Maureen; ex-wife Helen Fischer; stepdaughters Alison (Tobin), Nina (Liz) and Lauren (Katie) Lebwohl; grandchildren Levi, Josie, Theo and George of Madison, Wisconsin. as well as many great and great great nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his psister-in-law Jennifer (Skemp) O’Grady of Sandy Hook; cousin Mary Agatha (O’Grady) and her husband Patrick Savage of Toronto; and Father Martin O’Grady of Kinvara, Ireland.

Kevin will be buried along with other family at Assumption Cemetery in Westport. Friends and family may call at the Harding Funeral Home August 3 (4 to 8 p.m.) A funeral <ass will be held at Assumption Church on August 4 (10 a.m.), with a graveside service at 11:15 a.m. The family requests that donations in his memory be made to the Michael J Fox Foundation.

Judge Kevin O’Grady

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And finally … in honor of Jerry Kuyper’s photo (above):

(Feed your head! And feed “06880”! Please click here to contribute. Thank you.)

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