Speaking of beating the heat: Lou Mall had a chance to do that yesterday.
And he didn’t even plan on it.
The Representative Town Meeting member was on his way into the Senior Center, when he saw 2 teenager girls offering free lemonade.
From left: Taylor Lunney and Nicole Tooker. (Photo/Lou Mall)
Taylor Linney and Nicole Tooker also invited seniors to join them in a “When life gives you lemons, play Cornhole!” event there, on July 30 (10:30 a.m.).
“What great young women!” Lou says.
“I had a wonderful conversation about their upcoming senior year in high school, and colleges.
“It was so nice of them to volunteer their time and energy. And who doesn’t love free lemonade on a hot day like today?”
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The Westport Downtown Association sponsors music on Church Lane, every Friday and Saturday from early June through mid-September.
Now there’s music on Wednesdays too. Spotted Horse hires the performer. But they play outside the popular restaurant, so diners at other venues enjoy them too.
Ethan Walmark was last night’s featured act. The very talented 2024 Staples High School graduate — a rising sophomore at the University of Southern California’s prestigious Thornton School of Music — rocked the al fresco roadway with a sampling of some of his 3,000 covers, of popular tunes in a variety of genres.
Of course, Ethan took requests. That’s the way he rocks.
Also yesterday: 2 well-attended events, on either side of the Westport Library parking lot.
In the Trefz Forum, the 50th anniversary of “Jaws” was celebrated with a special screening of the iconic thriller — followed by an intriguing talk with nephew Christopher Shaw Myers, author of “Robert Shaw: An Actor’s Life on the Set of Jaws and Beyond,”and film critic Joe Myers.
(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
Meanwhile, a few yards away, the Levitt Pavilion welcomed the folk trio I’m With Her:
(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)
As if all that wasn’t enough: Singer Rosanne Cash and her husband, guitarist John Leventhal performed at the Westport Country Playhouse.
(Photo/Susan Garment)
In the words of former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe: “If you can’t find something to do in Westport, you’re just not trying.”
It tells the story of Angie (a bookeworm) who meets Marshall (a coder) building Angela (an AI chatbot).
The humans fall in love. Marshall introduces Angie to his influencer friends. Cautious at first, she acquiesces. With Angela’s guidance, she becomes a viral influencer.
“It’s the biggest artistic risk I’ve ever taken,” Lloyd says. “But it feels right.
“And I can’t think the Library enough. They haven’t just given me a stage — they’ve become partners in the artistic endeavor.”
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker says: “It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of Fairfield 1st Selectman Bill Gerber.
“He was a kind, engaged and accomplished public servant, having served the Fairfield in a wide range of elected and appointed roles over the past 30 years.
“Personally, I found Bill to not only be a good colleague, but even more importantly, a good human.
“On behalf of the town of Westport, I extend my sincere condolences to his wife,Jessica, his family, friends, and the entire Fairfield community. Please know that you are in our thoughts during this time of profound loss.”
Fairfield 1st Selectman Bill Gerber
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“Nature can heal itself, if we give it a little help.”
That was the message from Bob Mazzone, SoundWaters’ vice president of development, the the Westport Rotary Club on Tuesday.
The Stamford-based non-profit teaches students about the environmental challenges threatening Long Island Sound, through programs like sailing, growing kelp to improve the quantity of oxygen, and harbor maintenance.
Bob Mazzone addresses the Westport Rotary Club at Green’s Farms Church. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
5th through 8th graders interested in history and photography: Check out “History Through a Lens.”
The 3-Saturday workshop (August 23, September 13 and 27, 10-11:30 a.m., Weston History & Culture Center) encourages youngsters to dive into photographs from the archives, uncover the stories they tell, capture their own images, and become storytellers too
No experience is necessary. Bring a camera or smartphone (or one will be provided).
Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between July 9 and 15.
A 23-year-old West Haven man was charged with larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny, after an investigation into the October 4 thefts of tires and wheels from Honda of Westport. The loss and associated damage was estimated at $15,530. He posted a $75,000, and was turned over to Stamford Police, who also held a warrant for his arrest.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Driving while texting: 7 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
Failure to renew registration: 5
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 5
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Failure to obey traffic control regulations: 2
Criminal trespass: 1
Reckless driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Passing in a no-passing zone 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Following too closely: 1
Improper turns: 1
Failure to grant right-of-way: 1
School zone violation: 1.
Criminal trespassing is a crime.
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Longtime Westporter and civic volunteer Mary Shaughnessy died peacefully in November in Stamford, 2 days after celebrating her 95th birthday.
Raised on a Minnesota farm during the Depression, and one of 10 children, she was Homecoming Queen at Rochester High School.
She put herself through the University of Minnesota by working at the Mayo Clinic. She then taught physical education and health at Minnetonka High School.
Mary was married for 60 years to Tom Shaughnessy. Together, they raised 6 children.
In Westport Mary was active with the Church of Assumption, volunteered with Meals on Wheels, and was the only female coach of Westport’s first co-ed softball league.
Mary is survived by her children and their spouses: Tom of River Forest, Illinois; Mary Kay of Stamford; Elizabeth of Nashville; Peggy of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin; Patrick of Redwood City, California and John of Coral Gables, Florida; 11 grandchildren, and her siblings Margaret Tushaus, Donna Mae Stock and Eugene Tushaus.
Carolyn Doan sends a pair of spectacular “Westport … Naturally” photos.
She reports: “The Fresh Market osprey is getting ready to leave the nest.
“There is one chick this year. It can lift itself high above the nest. and is now assessing the idea of leaving. Proud parent looks on as this unfolds.”
And finally … see you tonight at our “06880” blog party (story above)!
(Sure, it’s hot. But the AC is cranking at “06880” Central, and we’re pumping out our usual mix of news, events, features, photos and more, without letup. Please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Of the 6 agenda items for tomorrow’s Board of Selectwomen meeting (Wednesday, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium), the one with the most direct impact on most Westporters is a proposal by the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee to lower parking limits on Main Street, Elm Street, Church Lane, Bay Street and Jesup Road from 3 hours to 2.
The change would affect on-street parking only. Parking lots — including Parker Harding Plaza, the Baldwin lot, and the Taylor and Jesup lots near the Library — would remain at 3 hours.
Parking lot limits would not change. But street parking would.
GenXer Bill and Millennial Kayla chat explore the world of GenZ queer youth. Kayla discusses her own journey, along with the importance of safe spaces, DEI backlash, and much more.
What can be better than a morning coffee and treats, outside at The Blondinit?
How about a chance to play mahjong too?
The Church Lane restaurant has partnered with the Haus of Mahj. They’ll host a “Monday Morning open play” next week (July 14, 10 a.m. to noon; experienced players only).
The $30 fee includes coffee or soft drink (food is available for purchase). Grab your quad or sign up solo. All materials — including tiles, racks and mats — are provided. Click here for more information, and to reserve a spot.
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One last look back at the holiday weekend — specifically, the Levitt Pavilion.
On Sunday, Westport’s outdoor entertainment venue featured Jake Swamp & the Pine.
The Americana/folk/pop/country/and more band was joined by Kaliloops, and emerging folks artists Simon Robert French and Harrison Goodell.
Jake Swamp recently played the Greenwich Town Party — the same festival as Alanis Morissette.
Looking ahead at the Levitt:
Tonight (Tuesday, 7 p.m.): Westport Community Band
Wednesday (7 p.m.): Children’s Series, with Joanie Leeds
Thursday (7:30 p.m.): Richiman and Groove Nice (7:30 p.m.; American-style blues band from South Korea).
Jake Swamp & the Pine, and friends, on the Levitt Pavilion stage.
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Jazz at the Post swings into summer with pianist/composer Sarah Jane Cion. She’s joined in a classic trio with bassist Alex Safy and drummer Mike Camacho.
It’s Thursday (July 10, VFW; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7; $20 music cover, $15 for veterans and students). Click here for reservations.
Former Westport resident and store owner Michael Nappa III died June 30. He was 75, and lived in Milford.
Michael helped run the family business, Nappa Sales, with his father Michael Jr. and brother Robert from 1971 to 1981. After their father died, Michael and Robert ran it until they closed their doors in 2018.
They also managed 15 apartments behind the storefront on Main Street in Westport, which served low-income tenants. Some kept in touch even after moving away.
Michael enjoyed movies. He also rescued cats, and nursed them back to health.
He is survived by his sister Marion of Westport; brother Robert (Linda) of Wilton; nieces and nephews Linda and Diana DeMattia, and Katherine and and Robert Nappa Jr. and great-nephews and nieces Daniel Landan, and Emma and Louis Parnes.
The Family will receive friend in the Harding Funeral Home on Thursday (July 10, 10-11 a.m.). A graveside service will follow in Assumption Cemetery, 73 Greens Farms Road at 11:15 a.m.
Most “Westport … Naturally” photos are gorgeous, inspiring, cute or fun.
Occasionlly, they’re all of those in one shot.
Today’s image is none of the above.
Spotted lanternflies can be seen all over town.
Tammy Barry “spotted” this scene on Hillspoint Road. Neaby, the invasive bugs can be seen all over the trunks of another invasive species: trees of heaven.
And finally … in honor of Soleil Toile (story above):
(What does “06880” need? Well, not lingerie. But we really could use a tax-deductible contribution or two, to support our 24/7/365 hyper-local work. Please click here. Lizzo and I thank you.)
If you couldn’t find something to do in Westport today, you just weren’t trying.
Downtown pulsed with the energy of thousands of Westporters and visitors, of all ages.
The Sunrise Rotary Club sponsored their annual Great Duck Race and Family Faire, on Jesup Green.
The race offered a chance to win a $5,000 grand prize, among others. The fair offered games for kids, vendors for adults, and food for all.
Meanwhile, the 60th annual jUNe Day offered dozens of United Nations families a chance to enjoy a Westport experience, at Longshore, Compo Beach, Wakeman Town Farm, Earthplace and more.
The day began on Jesup Green — at the start of the Family Faire — with welcomes from dignitaries (including Westporter Aye-Aye Thant, daughter of former UN Secretary General U Thant), food, and a chance to mix and mingle.
Getting away from the UN, for a day in an American suburb.
A few steps away on Main Street and nearby, the Westport Downtown Association’s Sidewalk Sale offered bargains from merchants — some of whose stores are not downtown — along with (hey, why not?) haircuts right there on the street.
The Sidewalk Sale continues today (Saturday) until 5 p.m. It’s on again tomorrow (Sunday), from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Plenty of shoppers outside Vineyard Vines.
There’s always something happening in Westport. Today, there just happened to be a bit more than usual.
Little girl, big duck.
Felicia Catale offers a sidewalk service.
Sunrise Rotarians are feeling ducky.
You’ve heard of touch-a-truck events. At the Family Faire, kids could touch — and get into — a Westport cop car.
The United Nations soccer team, before heading off to play. (All photos/Dan Woog)
Miggs Burroughs created today’s jUNe Day globe. “06880”‘s Dan Woog supports it. (Photo/Miggs Burroughs)
Hmmm…what’s a good 97th birthday gift for a longtime Westporter?
How about having the Compo Beach pickleball courts named in your honor?!
That very appropriate idea is edging closer to reality.
Last week, the Parks & Recreation Commission unanimously approved the idea of honoring Tom Lowrie. The man who has done more than anyone else to promote the sport in Westport stepped down as the town’s “Pickleball Ambassador” in April.
Yesterday, the Board of Selectwomen gave the resolution their unanimous okay too.
The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) Parks & Recreation Committee considers the idea — co-sponsored by Andrew Colabella and Chris Tait — tonight (6 p.m., Zoom).
If they approve it — and it would require a stunning kind of stupid not to — the item moves on to the full RTM, this coming Tuesday (July 2, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall).
That would be well deserved.
And perfect timing.
Tom Lowrie turns 97 years young on July 3 — the very next day.
Westport’s Sidewalk Sale. has something for everyone.
Including retailers who don’t have a sidewalk downtown.
The popular Westport Downtown Association event — set for tomorrow (Friday) through Sunday on Main Street, Elm Street, Church Lane, Post Road East and Sconset Square — also features booths for men’s and women’s apparel stores that are located outside the area.
There are other vendors too. Like Huntington Learning Center, which offers a chance to win a free academic evalatuion.
And Salon Nash. Owner Felicia Catale will provide haircuts for men and women ($35). Children’s cuts are just $20.
TAP Strength has launched a new program, with a special niche.
Designed specifically for teens and young adults who are neurodivergent, it focuses on building strength, improving posture and boosting confidence — all in a fun, supportive and inclusive environment.
Led by Certified Personal Trainers who hold Autism Exercise Specialist credentials through the American College of Sports Medicine, the program’s expert coaching and personalized support help each participant move better, feel stronger, and thrive — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Highlights include:
Body Awareness Assessments
Functional Fitness and Breathwork
Posture and Movement Education
Mindfulness and Confidence Strategies
1-on-1 or Small Group Sessions
Parent Stacie Curran says, “My son Dylan has been training at TAP for years. His body awareness, posture and confidence have all improved tremendously. He absolutely loves the TAP trainers. It’s a consistently fun, positive environment where he feels seen and supported.”
Southern Fried brings their “hot and crispy classic rock, blues and R&B” to the Weston History & Culture Center this Sunday (5:30 p.m.).
The outdoor show is part of their Music at the Barn summer series. Bring a lawn chair, BYOB and picnic (no food truck). Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for others; children 12 and under free.
Other Music at the Barn concerts are July 27, August 3 and September 7 (1 p.m.).
The Weston History & Culture Center also offers interactive tours of historic Coley House, and information about the forgotten village of Valley Forge, the Weston Meteorite, and the history of ragtime dance. Click here for more information.
The Westport Woman’s Club is looking for a very organized person to serve as office manager. Qualifications include strong experience in Microsoft Office and proficiency with QuickBooks Online or similar accounting skills; the ability to multitask, and good people skills to interact with members and the public.
Hoursare weekdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Send resumes to wwc@westportwomansclub.org.
A great place to work.
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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between June 18 and 25.
A 35-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with larceny, after a complaint was made about construction work that had not been completed, despite being paid $20,500.
A 45-year-old Southbury man was charged with reckless driving. At 6:40 a.m. on May 27, an off-duty officer wintessed a driver passing vehicles in no passing zones, and at stop sign. Once at work, he identified the operator, who agreed to come to the Westport police station to be issued a misdemeanor summons. He failed to appear, and a warrant was issued.
A 38-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with disorderly conduct and violation of a protective order, following a domestic violence investigation.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Disorderly conduct: 2 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
Following too closely: 2
Burglary: 1
Larceny: 1
Interfering with an emergency call: 1
Transporting a chld without restraints: 1
Assault on an elderly victim: 1
Face protection/motorcycle: 1
Operating a motorcycle without insurance: 1
Operating a motorcycle without endorsement: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1.
Put your kid in a car seat. Or get a ticket.
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Longtime Westport resident Agnes Davis died on June 17 in Florida — what would have been her late husband Bob’s 97th birthday. She was 102.
After graduating from high school in Pennsylvania at 16, she went to business school, then returned to Republic Steel as a proud, ahead-of-her-time career woman.
Her brother’s roommate, Bob, proposed to her on their first date. Though 6 years older, she accepted. They moved to Westport in 1965, where they raised 5 children.
Agnes was active in the Newcomers Club, Westport Garden Club, Westport Woman’s Club, and a gourmet group. She volunteered with the Saugatuck Elementary School PTA and as a Cub Scout den mother, and played Mrs. Claus to Bob’s Santa Claus at Perkin Elmer.
Agnes started a 15-year volunteer stint at Norwalk Hospital at age 75. Channel 12 honored her as a Hometown Hero, for her dedication.
Agnes worked at Nancy Strong’s Slimnastics and Hastings Real Estate before moving to Beijing in 1983 at age 61, after Bob accepted a job at Perkin Elmer’s China office. She embraced the Chinese society, culture and people, and traveled alone multiple times across China for work. Her thousands of photographs recorded everyday Chinese life and children.
In 1985 Agnes and Bob returned from China, then moved to Uberlingen, Germany in 1989. They traveled extensively in Europe. She self-published a book about her China experience. Years later, Agnes found a copy at the Westport Library Book Sale.
Back in Westport, she entertained over 600 visitors from 46 countries.
Agnes and Bob bought a home in The Villages, Florida in 2011, and moved their fulltime. He died in 2021.
Agnes is survived by her children Ed (Linda) of Hollister, California, Nancy Shwartz of Danbury, Mary Lou of The Villages, John (Ellen) of Raleigh, and Rick (Beth) of Newtown; 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; her sisters Delores Allick of Palm Springs, California and Eileen Novak of California, Pennsylvania. Agnes was predeceased by her sister, Lenora Zanolli, brother- law George Paler, and son-in-law, Jeff Shwartz.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Norwalk Hospital or the Westport Woman’s Club. A celebration of Agnes and Bob’s lives will be held at the Westport Country Playhouse in late August.
(Another day, another Roundup chock full of news, events and competely random stuff. If you enjoy this daily feature — or anything else on “06880” — please click here to support us. Thanks!)
There are many places to access the shoreline — besides beaches — in Westport.
Last week’s Photo Challenge showed one of several “Shoreline Public Access” signs around town. (Click here to see.)
Where was it? The giveaway seemed to be some rose bushes behind it.
Robert Mitchell, Andrew Colabella, Brandon Malin, Mary Stewart and Dan Ashley all knew the sign can be seen at the Riverwalk, near the Levitt Pavilion.
It’s a beautiful walk, along the Saugatuck River and Deadman Brook.
Of course, as Dan Ashley noted, the “no dogs” sign is often ignored.
Like shoreline access, there are flowers all over Westport. If you know where you’d see the ones below, in this week’s Photo Challenge, click “Comments.”
(Photo/Dan Woog)
(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
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