For good reason. He’s spent 36 years as a New York radio personality — first during a decade on legendary WNEW-FM, and for the past quarter-century at Q104.3.
He’s still going strong.
Ian also was a VJ at VH1, and had a stint on the CBS reality show “Big Brother.” He’s done voiceovers for national campaigns like Burger King and Saab, and appeared on “Law and Order” (“SVU” and “Criminal Intent”), and “School of Rock.”
Ian lives in Westport, where he donates tons of time to charities. He also “dabbles” (his words) in real estate.
The other day, Ian sat behind the mic on the Westport Library stage. We chatted about the past, present and future of radio, about music, and much, much more.
Click here or below to listen to — and watch — the multi-talented Ian O’Malley.
Mark Mathias reports this potentially life-saving development: “Yesterday morning in Winslow Park, I saw a pleasant surprise. An AED is in its weatherproof container, which has been empty for what I think is a couple of years.”
(An Automated External Defibrillator is a portable device used to treat cardiac arrests. It analyzes the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, delivers an electrical shock to restore a normal heartbeat. Voice prompts make it easy for anyone to use. There are multiple devices in schools and public buildings in Westport, as well as outdoors.)
Mark adds, “I hope the other AEDs around town have been serviced, charged up, and hopefully never needed too.”
If you know of other working AEDs around in outdoor spaces, click “Comments” below.
But it’s very visible from Compo Beach. You know: the smokestack.
Now it’s undergoing a radical — and exciting — transformation.
Philanthropists Austin and Allison McChord are spending $410 million to remake the abandoned coal-fired power plant into a stunning 125-acre public park.
It will include 28 acres of walking trails, 1 3/4 miles of Long Island Sound waterfront access, classrooms, a pool, indoor climbing, bird watching, and much more.
Though the first phase will not open until next spring, last week the dramatic event space hosted the co-founder of YouTube, for a special meeting.
Manresa Island is ecologically important. Undeveloped portons include a coastal forest and intertidal estuaries — some of the last remaining undisturbed marine habitats on the Fairfield County coast.
Wetlands serve as breeding grounds for migratory birds, and are home to 200 or so bird species. Waters around the island are essential habitats for many fish.
The model for the adaptive reuse of industrial sites and resilient waterfronts globally — with climbing walls, an indoor water park, food vendors and an environment educational center, will be completed by 2030.
The other day, Westport journalist Dave Briggs headed to Manresa Island. Click here or below for his report.
Triple Threat Academy’s 2 weekend performances of “Peace, Love, and Cupcakes” at Saugatuck Congregational Church raised over $1,000 for charity.
The 11-member cast of 3rd through 9th graders — all from Westport — was directed by Jill Jaysen.
The two oldest actors, Ellie Rockwell (seen recently as Little Sally in Staples Players’ “Urinetown”) and Jordan Minnich, spearheaded an initiative to donate ticket sales and proceeds from a bake sale after each performance. They researched and chose Rachel’s Challenge, an organization founded in honor of Rachel Joy Scott, who, in her short life before the Columbine shooting, embodied the kindness and compassion that is at the heart of the PLC musical. Rachel’s life was tragically lost in the Columbine shooting. Rachel’s Challenge addresses the root causes of school violence, bullying, prejudice and self-harm through student wellness programs.
The lead, 4th grader Sophie Goldberg, is already represented by a New York youth agent. Other Triple Threat actors are also repped.
Other cast members were Olive Boehm, Adanna Bolu, Ariana Goldman, Johanna Lawton, Siena McLoughlin, Lola Rockwell, Maddy Shemesh and Zia Stokvis.
The audience included Triple Threat Academy founder and Staples graduate Cynthia Gibb; Triple Threat and Players alum Jamie Mann, and his mother, Triple Threat co-director Jill Mann. Staples Player Griffin Delmhorst ran lights.
Jamie Mann (Broadway’s “Stranger Things,” Netflix’s “Country Comfort”) will assist with Triple Threat’s summer acting camp and musical theater intensive program. They also offer an independent film project. Click here for details.
The Triple Threat “Peace, Love and Cupcakes” cast.
Sixty years ago, he and his band, the Animals, performed at Staples High School. I was in junior high — and I was there.
(Don’t let me be misunderstood: “06880” is here for you 24/7/365. But we rely on reader support. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Charlie Hall says, “We’re all drummers. It’s a way we organize time and sound, to signify an event or convey an emotion.”
That may be true.
But very few of us can drum as well as Hall.
The 1992 Greens Farms Academy graduate and Wilton native has spent his professional life as a drummer. (Plus, he’s a songwriter, producer and multi-instrument performer.)
Hall is a longtime percussionist with the Grammy Award-winning band The War on Drugs. He releases his own music too.
He’s produced 3 Christmas LPs with Patti LaBelle, Stevie Nicks (and the Philadelphia Eagles).
Charlie Hall
Hall is also a founder of Get Up With It. Since the late 1990s, the project has explored and performed the groundbreaking 1969-1975 era of Miles Davis’ electric music.
On May 24 (7 p.m.), Hall and Get Up With It kick off the Levitt Pavilion’s 53rd season — and celebrate the centennial of Davis’ birth — with a special concert.
The ensemble will focus on 3 of the trumpeter’s most influential albums: 1969’s visionary and transcendental “In a Silent Way” the 1970 magnum opus “Bitches Brew,” and 1971’s “Jack Johnson.”
Hall began drumming at age 3, when his grandmother bought him a tin Muppets set.
By 6, he had a set of Ludwigs.
His brother — older by 9 years — introduced Hall to ’70s rock legends like the Rolling Stones, the Who and Led Zeppelin. In high school he listened to WLIR, and was introduced to the Pretenders, Talking Heads and U2.
“Drums were the way I met people and built relationships,” Hall recalls.
A special relationship was with Jean Rabin, owner of Record & Tape of Westport. He was there at least weekly. She encouraged his love of music. His room was plastered with posters she saved for him. “I wish I could thank her for all she did,” he says.
(Courtesy of Christopher Maroc)
GFA dean of students/registrar/math teacher Ed Denes was another important influence.
“He was larger than life — literally and figuratively,” Hall says.
Denes organized school talent shows. Hall always had a band. “It was a way I could bring people together,” he notes. “I still do that today.”
After the College of William & Mary — where he majored in music and psychology (and met his wife) — he moved to San Francisco, then Philadelphia.
He’s been there ever since. He joined The War on Drugs — a Philly-based rock band — in 2014.
Hall’s upcoming Levitt gig has roots in his 1990s California days. Playing “straight-ahead jazz,” he and fellow musicians put together Get Up With It, a 10-piece group to explore the “Afro-futuristic space rock” canon of Davis’ music.
When Hall and some of the others moved to Philadelphia and New York, they formed an East Coast version.
“Miles painted with a palette of rhythms,” Hall explains. “It’s a gift for me to play this music, with these people.”
Get Up With It includes guitars, woodwinds, keyboards, brass — and a trio of percussionists.
Get Up With It, in action.
What will it be like for Hall to pay tribute to Miles Davis, just a couple of miles from where he himself grew up?
“It will be pretty emotional,” the drummer admits.
“I think so fondly on my first 18 years of life around there … all the bands I’ve seen, and the experiences I’ve had. To bring my gang here will be fun.”
Doors open at 6 p.m., for the Levitt Pavilion’s May 24 kickoff concert, Charlie Hall’s Get Up With It: A Miles Davis Centennial Celebration. Click here for tickets, and more information.
(“06880” reports regularly on Westport’s entertainment scene — including local and national artists. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Levitt Pavilion kicks off its 53rd season on May 24. (Photo/Susan Garment)
Speaking of Parks & Rec: Their “Kickoff to Summer” is a recent tradition.
The May 23 event (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) features food, touch-a-truck, bouncy houses, a climbing wall, face painting, helicopter rides — and this year, something special.
This year marks the unveiling of a new mural. It brightens the formerly drab wall, between the side of the concession stand and the brick pavilion.
Staples High School junior Luke Bernier won a town-wide contest, with his design.
The other day, volunteers — led by super-volunteer Miggs Burroughs — turned his plan into an actual mural. We look forward to seeing the finished work on May 23 — and for many years to come.
Nobel Prize-winning MIT economist Daron Acemoglu called last week’s Westport Library talk with Dave Briggs “the most important conversation in the world.”
This week, (Friday, May 8, 10 a.m.) Briggs — a longtime resident and national journalist — hosts one that will rivet parents (and any students and teachers who can get there).
Brookings Rebecca Winthrop one of the nation’s leading experts on AI and education. She and Briggs will discuss what parents need to know about the impact AI may have on their children’s education; how evolving technology affects critical thinking — and are schools doing enough?
The conversation will explore why skills like common sense, critical thinking, curiosity and sound judgment matter more than ever — especially for young, impressionable minds.
As Westporters think about graduations and summer camp, Westport’s Human Services Department is thinking about how to help residents who struggle to afford them.
Youth and family specialist Annette D’Augelli coordinates the Camperships and Ceremonies & Celebrations programs. for income-eligible families.
Camperships help bridge gaps, offering children access to structured, confidence-building experiences while providing parents the stability of reliable summer care.
The Ceremonies & Celebrations Fund ensures 8th and 12th grade students can mark important milestones with dignity, through a graduation outfit, special meal or other meaningful experience.
The impact of a donation is felt in many ways:
$5,000: Full summer of camp
$2,500: 6 weeks of camp
$1,000: 2 1/2 weeks of camp
$400: 1 week of camp
$200: Half week of camp or a celebratory meal
$100: Camp support or graduation/prom attire
To donate online, click here; (Family-to-Family program). To donate by mail: Family to Family, c/o Westport Human Services, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.
Construction at Sherwood Island State Park — the traditional site of STAR Inc.’s annual Walk & Roll — moved the event to the non-profit’s Norwalk home.
But the 21st annual fundraiser was another smash. And it offered attendees a chance to experience first hand the facility and environment where important work, supporting people with intellectual and developmental differences, happens every day.
Bob Levy spoke on behalf of Team Ariel, once again the top fundraising team. He reflected on over 2 decades of involvement, and noted that donations this year included his 7-year-old granddaughter. He also recognized Laura Blair and Team Jenna Herbst, for their continued commitment and impact.
For more information on STAR, and to contribute, click here.
Guests enjoyed jazz, conversation and laughter Saturday night, at MoCA\CT.
Hosted by Richard Epstein and Jim Motavalli of WPKN-FM, the program paired iconic recordings with lively, nostalgic dialogue.
Selections like “Song for My Father” by Horace Silver and “In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning” by Johnny Hartman sparked personal stories and reflections.
The event was part of MoCA’s ongoing programming for “Art, Jazz + the Blues.” The exhibit combines visual art with jazz-inspired public programming.
This Thursday (May 7, 6 p.m.), MoCA\CT presents One Degree of Separation: Jazz in CT. Thomas Duffy and Wayne Escoffery of the Yale School of Music explore Connecticut’s vibrant jazz legacy, including mentorship, collaboration, and the social impact of the music in the state and beyond. Grammy Award winner Escoffery will play the saxophone too.
On May 14 (6 p.m.), the museum hosts the Westport Writers’ Workshop. Amanda Parrish Morgan and Liz Matthews’ immersive, all-levels workshop invites participants to respond to “Art, Jazz + the Blues” through observation, imagination and curiosity.
Then, on May 16 (7 p.m.), internationally acclaimed pianist (and 25-year Westport resident) Frederic Chiu is joined by his niece, rising violinist star Karisa Chiu — fresh off her Carnegie Hall debut. Their program spans Gabriel Fauré, Sergei Prokofiev, and a special piece written for Karisa by Bright Sheng.
Karisa Chiu and Frederic Chiu.
=================================================
Congratulations to Olivia Jackson!
The Coleytown Middle School 7th grader earned a Platinum award in the Connecticut Writing Project’s Student Writers contest. Her poem (below) — one of over 1,500 submissions — will be published in this year’s magazine. She’ll also take part in a special writers’ workshop.
That’s not all. Last month, Olivia performed at Carnegie Hall, with the Camp Broadway Ensemble at the New York Pops’ 43rd Birthday Gala.
We’ll follow her writing and performing careers with interest!
May 31 (3 to 5 p.m.) is when Town Hall Green turns tropical. The town’s Commission for the Arts welcomes the high-energy Silver Steel Drum Band, for the inaugural Music on the Green show.
The Green was restored to create a central gathering space, with a veterans’ memorial, walkway, improved lighting and native landscaped gardens. Concerts will add another dimension.
Guests are invited to bring chairs and refreshments.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image looks a bit abstract.
On closer examination, Jerry Kuyper’s photo shows weeping cherry petals on his Rayfield Road driveway, with passing clouds illuminated by the sun after a rain shower.
(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)
=================================================
And finally … as the P&Z prepares to discuss lights on 2 town fields (story above):
(Hey, readers: You light up our “06880” life. And a gentle reminder: We rely on reader support to do all this, 24/7/365. Clicking here to support our work would make us feel even brighter. Thank you!)
A reader near Clinton Avenue has safety concerns. He writes:
“Drivers routinely exceed the speed limit, with the 2 existing speed humps proving far too low to serve as an effective deterrent. Motorists fail to stop at the stop sign further down the street.
“There are no sidewalks, forcing children, walkers, cyclists and pet owners to share the road with speeding traffic. Clinton Avenue’s proximity to Exit 21 off the Merritt Parkway makes it a commuter cut-through, compounding the problem
“The other day, a school bus stopped to pick up children during morning rush hour. Kids were crossing the street to board, but drivers still tried to squeeze around the bus. The only thing between those children and a tragedy was luck.
“We are asking the town to demolish and rebuild the existing speed humps to a greater height, introduce additional traffic calming measures, and increase enforcement on Clinton Avenue, at no cost to taxpayers. The response is clear: Residents want action.” Click here for the Change.org petition.
Clinton Avenue speed hump. A resident calls the height ineffective.
Over 150 people enjoyed great dinners and a powerful show, at last night’s “Supper & Soul.”
Vanessa Collier — who played the second-ever “S&S” event in 2018 — returned as the headliner. The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored “Supper & Soul” includes a pre-concert meal, a high-energy performance at the Westport Library, and drinks afterward.
The next show, featuring the Grateful Dead tribute act Spadastics, is set for November.
Last night’s Vanessa Collier show, on the Library stage and big screen. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)
Speaking of the Library: The Read to Grow Bookmobile will be in the back lot on Thursday (May 7, 3 to 5 p.m., back lot).
Families can hop in, and let their children choose a book to take home and keep.
Read to Grow is a non-profit, Their mission is to “support families as their babies’ first teachers.” The goal is for every child in Connecticut to have books of their own — from birth on.
=================================================
Just hours after she was born 9 weeks early, in June of 2022, Shea Greenfield’s heart stopped beating.
Doctors saved her life. But she was diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome. Her heart’s electrical system takes longer than usual to recharge between beats. She is at risk of fainting, seizures, cardiac arrest and sudden death.
There is no cure for the condition. And Shea’s condition is one of the most severe her doctors have ever seen.
Shea’s parents, Mark and Kira, had moved to Westport a year earlier. In addition to educating themselves about LQTS, they began helping the Mayo Clinic, where Dr. Michael Ackerman’s team does cutting-edge research.
In 2023, the Greenfields organized a fundraiser. Since then, they’ve raised over $1.7 million.
The 4th annual Shake It For Shea gala is May 14 (7:30 p.m., The Knowlton, Bridgeport). There’s live entertainment, delicious food and drinks, a night of dancing, and much more.
“06880” is “Where Westport meets the world.” And Chocolatieree is where Westport meets “The Devil Wears Prada 2.”
The downtown chocolate-and-more shop has just cooked up The Runway Edit. The limited collection of hand-painted chocolate bags comes straight from Miranda Priestly’s desk.
The first one featured — “The Miranda. That’s All” — comes in deep red, with black pyramid hardware and a gold Prada plaque. Every detail is rendered by hand in, chocolate.
Owner Laureen Hayes says, “It’s the kind of thing Miranda would leave on your desk, without explanation.”
The Runway Edit is available at Chocolatieree (66 Church Lane). Reservations are required: 203-939-7339.
“The Miranda,” at Chocolatieree.
=================================================
We’ve mentioned Westporter Nile Rodgers’ recent inclusion in the New York Times’ list of 30 Greatest Living Among Songwriters.
But he’s not the only artist with local ties.
Valerie Simpson and husband Nick Ashford co-wrote “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand)” and “I’m Every Woman,” among many others.
The couple lived for many years on Cross Highway. They were frequently seen around town.
And their 4th of July parties — with some of the Biggest Names in Entertainment — were legendary.
May is AAPI Heritage Month. To celebrate, the Westport Library hosts Scott Kurashige.
On Tuesday (May 5, 7 p.m.), the historian discusses his new book, American Peril: The Violent History of Anti-Asian Racismwith Jason O Chang, director of the Asian and Asian American Studies Institute at the University of Connecticut.
The event is co-sponsored by AAPI Westport. Click here for more information.
Speaking of the Library: On May 19 (7 p.m.), they celebrate the theatrical release of the original “Shrek” film.
Roger Schulman, Oscar-nominated co-writer of the film, will be in conversation with Professor Todd Barnes, artistic director of the graduate film program at Sacred Heart University. Schulman is an artist in residence there. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Westporter Sandra Krenzer visited her daughter Alexis the other day, at Northwestern University.
She also went to a Chicago Cubs game. It was fun enough to sit next to Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt (aka Ted Lasso and Coach Beard).
But then they all appeared on the jumbo screen.
Sandra is to the right of Lasso. Hey: Why didn’t they include her name too?! (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)
================================================
Longtime Westport resident Eve Clifford died peacefully at home on Thursday. She was 83.
A native of Tallinn, Estonia, she emigrated in 1944 to Malmö, Sweden following the Soviet occupation during World War II.
She and her family later settled in St. Catharines, Ontario. She was a 1965 graduate of the University of Toronto with a degree in nursing, and was a clinical nursing instructor and visiting nurse.
After the death of her husband Robert, Eve became a sales specialist for Macy’s in Stamford.
She is survived by her sons Michael and Christopher, of Westport.
A graveside memorial service will be held Monday (May 4, 11 a.m., Willowbrook Cemetery).
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 38 Richards Ave, Norwalk, CT 06854.
Eve Clifford
=================================================
Another spring day, another colorful “Westport … Naturally” image.
This one shows Celia Campbell-Mohn’s Timber Lane yard, in full bloom.
Two milling and paving projects begin soon. All work will be done from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Milling of a mile of Post Road East, between South Compo Road and the Sherwood Island Connector, is scheduled to begin the night of May 10, and end the morning of May 13.
Paving is slated to start the night of May 17, and end the morning of May 22.
Milling of 1.34 miles of Route 57, between Main Street and the Weston town line, is scheduled to begin the night of May 26, and end the morning of May 29.
Paving is slated to start the night of May 31, and end the morning of June 4.
Inclement weather could affect dates and times of the work.
Post Road East milling and paving work will be done at night. But until it’s finished, the road is likely to be bumpy all day.
Click here to learn how he takes inspiration from New York’s club scene, creates his signature guitar style, and writes his iconic songs.
Screen shot from Nile Rodgers’ New York Times video.
=================================================
A long-time Westporter reports: “Since early April, I’ve watched a major infrastructure project underway at my favorite place, Sherwood Island State Park.
“I’m certain the state would describe it as a betterment, but it has a huge impact on people using the parking in the interim.
“It’s now one month since work began. They’ll be lucky to finish in time for Memorial Day weekend.
“I don’t want to sound like an alarmist — the pavement was in poor shape and could use repaving — and I suppose installing new drains and catch basins improves rain water disbursement.
“But I am concerned that the end product may be a drastic change — too ‘modern’ and ‘citified.’ You should take a look.
MoCA\CT’s current exhibit — “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — continues its popular run through June 7.
But the Newtown Turnpike arts center is already looking ahead.
“Looking for History” — 3 solo presentations that examine how personal, local and national histories are pictured, preserved and contested — opens June 25.
As the US marks its 250th anniversary, the exhibitions invite visitors into conversations about the narratives and forces that have shaped the nation.
Rick Shaefer’s “Colossi” anchors the full season. Ellen Harvey’s “The Disappointed Tourist” is featured June 25 to August 2, followed by Michael Borders’ “Connecticut Industry” (August 13 through November 15).
As with all MoCA\CT exhibits, related programming will enhance the experience. The opening reception is 6 p.m. on June 25. Click here for much more information.
=================================================
Speaking of MoCA\CT: Executive director Robin Jaffee Frank was the guest speaker at yesterday’s Sunrise Rotary Club meeting.
She gave an informative, colorful presentation on all that’s happening at the contemporary arts (and much more) museum.
Robin Jaffee Frank, at the Sunrise Rotary Club.
=================================================
Congratulations to Fire Marshal Terrence Dunn!
Governor Lamont has appointed him to serve on the Connecticut Commission on Fire Prevention and Control.
Members help shape statewide fire service policy, training standards, and fire prevention initiatives.
Dandelion — the Delamar Westport’s restaurant — has become one of the town’s hottest spots since opening last fall.
Now, the patio will add to the buzz.
The first community event there was Wednesday. The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce sponsored an education and networking event, on the impact of AI on search for small and medium businesses.
ThoughtPartnr — the Westport company that helps local businesses find AI solutions — offered demonstrations to nearly 80 attendees. They represented a variety of firms, from beauty salons and architecture to non-profits.
Jay Norris (with microphone) and “06880”‘s Dan Woog discuss AI for local businesses. Norris’ ThoughtPartnr developed a widget for the hyper-local blog.
Speaking of the Chamber of Commerce: They’re proud to announce that 4 Westporters have been honored by Westfair Business Journal, at their 26th annual “40 Under 40” event.
Cited as outstanding entrepreneurs under the age of 40 were Luke Andriuk, director of investments at Saugatuck Financial; Bianca Bazante, owner and creative director of The Artist Loft; Paul Lutsky, commercial lender at Fairfield County Bank, and Lindsay Tanne Howe, founder and CEO of LogicPrep.
From left: 40 Under 40 entrepreneurs Luke Andriuk, Bianca Bazante, Paul Lutsky, Lindsay Tanne Howe, and Matthew Mandell, Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director.
And finally … to get you in the mood for today’s Kentucky Derby:
(Who will win the Run for the Roses? We have no idea. But here’s a sure bet: Please click here to support “06880.” It’s where Westport meets the world — including Kentucky. Thank you!)
Starting tomorrow (Friday), beach stickers are required for all Westport beach parking lots.
Receipts will not be accepted. Emblems must be displayed on windshields.
If you order online, delivery takes up to 2 weeks. For quicker service, stop by the Parks & Recreation Department office in Longshore weekdays, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Everyone’s got documents to shred. And who doesn’t want to support cancer research?
Both come together on Saturday, May 9 (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.,, William Raveis Real Estate rear parking lot), 47 Riverside Avenue).
Raveis is sponsoring “Shred it for Cancer Research.” Your stuff will be shredded as you watch. You don’t even have to leave your car.
There’s a suggested donation of $5 per shopping bag, $10 per box or shopping bag, $20 for a large garbage bag (cash, check credit card or Venmo.
100% of every donation benefits the William Raveis Charitable Fund, Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
================================================
On May 3, Histoury brings its look at colonial-era homes to Westport and Weston.
The charter bus will highlight many sites. Four will be open for inside looks: the oldest home in Westport, an 18th-century house almost destroyed during the Revolutionary War and retains original Delft Blue tiles, the Rachel Beers dowager home, and the Osborn Dairy farmhouse.
Vernacular farmhouses, Georgian and Federal homes, and the Cape Cod style are some topics of colonial-era architecture that will be seen and discussed, along with stories about the people and history of those places.
Over the past few months, VFW Post 399 has become one of Westport’s premier music venues.
This Saturday (May 2, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show), the Connecticut Grateful Dead All Stars take the stage.
A great show will be made even greater, thanks to Crispin Cioe. The saxophonist (and longtime Westporter) — a member of the legendary Uptown Horns — has performed with The Rolling Stones. He’s also heard on “Love Shack” and “Living in America.”
A light bar menu (including hot dogs and pizza by the slice) is available. Tickets are $17.85 here, $20 at the door.
Where else can you see the Dead — or Crispin Cioe — for that price?
Speaking of music: Just added, to MoCA\CT’s “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibit: a screening of “Jazz on a Summer’s Day” (May 28, 6:30 p.m.).
The 1959 film — captured against the backdrop of the Newport Jazz Festival and America’s Cup — features legends like Louis Armstrong, Thelonious Monk, and Mahalia Jackson. All 3, and others, inspired the works currently hanging in the MoCA galleries
The screening will be followed by a Q-and-A with Yale professor of music and film & media studies Brian Kane. He’ll explore how 20th-century icons continue to shape American culture.
Village Pediatrics’ “Story Walk” — the often-changing displays along the Saugatuck River, outside their Riverside Avenue office — is always worth a look.
The current display sends a particularly important message:
As part of our tribute, we noted that the renowned dancer and longtime Westport resident helped choreograph 2 Staples Players shows (both of which she had starred in): “Alice in Wonderland” in 1964, and “Oklahoma!” 10 years later.
But, Players co-director David Roth notes, there’s another connection.
Her daughter Jennifer DeJesus played Louise — the role Bambi Linn originated on Broadway) in the high school troupe’s 1981 production of “Carousel.”
That Players production is famous for another reason: It featured Michael Hayden as Billy Bigelow.
The Staples star eventually played that role on Broadway, too.
Michael Hayden
==============================================
Another “06880” Roundup entertainment follow-up:
Yesterday, we reported that Westport neighbor Nile Rodgers was one of the New York Times’ “30 Greatest Living American Songwriters.”
That item followed directly after an item about Wynton Marsalis’ upcoming show at the Levitt Pavilion. (It’s June 28. Tickets go on sale to the public tomorrow.)
The Levitt’s Carleigh Walsh quickly reminded me that Rodgers — and Chic — played a memorable show at the outdoor venue too. The year was 2016.
The video (click here or below) shows the intro to his “Get Lucky” hit. It’s very personal, and emphasizes his artistic identity as a songwriter on countless hits he has created, produced, recorded and influenced.
The video also includes a stage-side view of Rodgers, playing his signature guitar.
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between April 22 and 28.
A 34-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with 2 counts of operation of a motor vehicle while under suspension, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, failure to meet minimum insurance requirements and failure to appear, after an officer on Post Road West noticed a vehicle with a suspended and expired registration, unconfirmed insurance coverage and a possible active arrest warrant. He was released on a $7,500 bond.
A 37-year-old Stamford woman was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs and failure to grant right of way, following a motor vehicle accident with injuries on Riverside Avenue. She was released on a $500 bond.
Westport Police continued their month-long crackdown on texting while driving. They issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 48 citations
Distracted driving: 12
Violation in a school zone: 9
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
Failure to renew registration: 5
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
Failure to obey stop sign: 4
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
Breach of peace: 1
Failure to move over for an emergency vehicle: 1
Speeding: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Tinted glass violation: 1
Violation of permit requirements: 1
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1
If you see these in your rear view mirror — or coming the other direction — pull over!
=================================================
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image is a bleeding heart — the floral, not the political kind!
And finally … the Nile Rodgers item above got us thinking about his mega-monster hit. It definitely deserves another spin, here on his hometown “06880”:
Willie Nelson, Smokey Robinson and Frankie Valli are just a few of the greats to grace the riverfront stage.
Next up: Wynton Marsalis.
Before the world-renowned managing and artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center heads into his final season, he’ll be in Westport on Sunday, June 28.
The evening opens with a set by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Youth Orchestra at 6 p.m. A 2-set performance by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, with Marsalis, follows at 7.
Pre-sale to Levitt Pavilion members is underway now (click here; for membership information, click here). Tickets for the general public begin at 10 a.m. Friday (May 1; click here).
Wynton Marsalis
================================================
Speaking of entertainment: The New York Times has just posted their list of “The 30 Greatest Living American Songwriters.”
And #1 — making him the greatest of all the greatest — is Westport’s own Nile Rodgers.
Okay: The list is unranked. But still, our neighbor is the first one you see.
More than 250 music insiders and 6 Times critics “weighed in on who defines the new American songbook.”
Rodgers’ writeup says:
The titles tell the story. “Good Times.” “I Want Your Love.” “Lost in Music.” “Everybody Dance.” “My Feet Keep Dancing.” “Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah).”
The songs of Nile Rodgers distill the spirit of disco’s heyday: long nights, bright lights, romance, sex and, above all, the communal rapture of bodies moving in unison, following inexorable grooves to a distant plane where the laws of physics seem no longer to apply — at least until the cops show up.
Together with his songwriting partner, the bassist Bernard Edwards (who died in 1996), Rodgers co-founded Chic, the de facto house band of New York’s late-70s disco boom.
A legendary hard partyer, Rodgers was both a habitué of Manhattan’s club scene and its shrewdest chronicler. In the songs he and Edwards composed for Chic and other artists, the gritty glamour of the local demimonde — Black and white and Latino, gay and straight and in between — became a global ideal, immortalized in anthems of freedom and transgression that rippled across the planet.
Tomorrow, the Jazz Society of Fairfield County (aka JazzFC) hosts a free Professional Development Day for professional and pre-professional jazz performers and composers.
The April 30 event runs from noon to 5 p.m., at VFW Post 399.
The afternoon includes sessions on promotion and public relations, booking and self-management, and financial planning — all tailored specifically for jazz musicians.
Saxophonist and educator Vincent Herring will deliver the keynote, on developing and sustaining a life in jazz.
This free program is open to working jazz artists and pre-professionals, ages 18 and up. Registration is required; click here.
Alison Milwe Grace is Connecticut’s Best Female Caterer!
The award — based on voting by CTbites readers — was presented Monday night at New Haven’s Marcel Hotel.
Alison — a Staples High School graduate (and culinary teacher, cookbook author and Food Network competitor) — owns and operates AMG Catering & Events.
For 30 years they’ve served Fairfield and Westchester Counties with 5-course, intimate dinner parties, festive bridal and baby showers, memorable weddings, creative bar and bat mitzvahs, and original fundraisers.
Monday’s event — CTbites’ “It’s a Woman’s World: An Evening to Inspire, Connect and Celebrate CT’s Women in Culinary” — honored “many inspiring and trailblazing females in Connecticut’s culinary industry.” Best Female Caterer was one of 11 categories.
Congratulations, Alison! We’re sure it was a great night.
And we hope the catering was almost as good as yours. (Hat tip: Pat Micinilio)
Alison Milwe Grace, at the CTbites ceremony Monday night.
The hyper-local event (9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Jesup Green) features a bumper crop of over 1,000 perennial plants.
While many sales stock nursery-bought inventory, this one’s 100% homegrown.
Every club member either donates at least 20 nurtured perennials from their personal garden, or joins a “digging team.”
Those teams spend weeks visiting local gardens, to divide and pot plants carefully.
So every plant is “Westport-proven” — already acclimated to our soil and climate. They’re hardy, and ready to thrive in your yard.
So far, the Diggers have potted, weeded and labeled over 100 plants. They’re watered daily, ensuring peak condition for the sale.
Beyond the perennials, there are Connecticut native plants, farm-fresh tomatoes and herbs, hand-crafted Mother’s Day planters and arrangements, and a bake sale.
The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is tomorrow (Thursday, April 30, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).
It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.
Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.
RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.
PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!
VFW benefits luncheon.
=================================================
The Harlem Stories Project — a non-profit founded by 2004 Staples High graduate Sarah Bennett, which empowers middle schoolers to tell stories of their West Harlem neighborhood, after interviewing residents — performed their 3rd original show earlier this month. It was co-written by Bennett and fellow Players alum Ginny Levy.
Staples High School Class of 1983 graduate, and longtime Westport resident Kristin Thornton died peacefully April 22, after a long illness.
She attended Marymount College. Kristin studied abroad for a year at the University of Stirling in Scotland, an experience she cherished deeply.
She spent 35 years in operations at Morgan Stanley. She was devoted to her work and colleagues.
Kristin was deeply loved by her 3 nieces and nephews. “They eagerly awaited her frequent visits, her brilliantly simple words of wisdom, and the legendary sleepovers that featured far more cartoon marathons than actual sleep,” her obituary says.
She is survived by her mother, Kathleen Thornton; sister Stephanie Moore Girling (Steve); brother William Thornton (Jessica Branson); nieces and nephews, Elizabeth, Savannah and Spencer Girling; aunt and uncle, Gail and Alan Shea; aunt Deenie Thornton, and many cousins.
Kristin was predeceased by her father, Richard Thornton, and uncles Robert Doyle, John Thornton Jr. and William Thornton.
A funeral service is set for St. Luke’s Church on Friday, May 1 (11 a.m.), followed by a reception and burial at Willowbrook Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Healthcare Workers Fund at the Maefair Center for Health and Rehabilitation in Trumbull.
No, today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo is not from “The Wizard of Oz.”
It could be — but Candice Cardenas’ Old Road image is even more glorious.
(Photo/Candice Cardenas)
==============================================
And finally … as the music world mourns the death of Nedra Talley Ross — the last surviving member of the Ronettes, the beloved 1960s girl group, who died on Sunday, age 80, in Virginia — there is a local connection.
When the Beatles toured the US in 1966, both the Ronettes and the Remains were opening acts.
And the Remains — the legendary garage band, featuring Westporters Barry Tashian on guitar and vocals, and Bill Briggs on keyboards — served as the backup band for Nedra and her cousins, Veronica (Ronnie) and Estelle Bennett.
Barry Tashian (center) and the Remains, backing up the Ronettes on the Beatles’ 1966 tour. (Screenshot from “America’s Lost Band.”)
(“06880” is where the Ronettes meet the Remains — and Westport meets the world. If you enjoy those meetings — or anything on our hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
In the fall of 2007, Staples Players produced “Beauty & the Beast.”
Directors David Roth and Kerry Long’s adaptation of the beloved fairy tale musical is this week’s “nutshell” — a 17-minute highlight reel filmed and edited by former media teacher Jim Honeycutt.
“06880” culture correspondent Robin Moyer Chung reports:
Over the past few days, “06880” has posted several readers’ praises of Westport Country Playhouse’s latest production, the Pulitzer Prize-winning “Primary Trust.”
I’ll add mine.
Eboni Booth wrote the play during the pandemic, while a student at Juilliard. It premiered Off-Broadway in May 2023.
Touching on isolation, neurodiversity and self-worth, “Primary Trust” illuminates the “invisible” people who float in the margins of our lives.
The characters are rich. The powerful script is tender and charming, with unexpected turns — a quiet uncoiling of the long, relentless tentacles of childhood trauma.
Alphonso Walker Jr., and Lance Coadie Williams.
The show follows Kenneth (Alphonso Walker Jr.), a lonely and unobtrusive 38-year old Black man. Kenneth has worked in the same small bookshop for 20 years. He wanders to Wally’s Tiki Bar every night for the 2-for-1 mai tai special, which he drinks with his only friend, Bert.
Bert, played brilliantly by Lance Coadie Williams, is a jovial and committed companion.
Jasminn Johnson, who effortlessly plays a carousel of entertaining Wally’s waitresses, also plays Corinna, Kenneth’s favorite waitress.
When the small bookstore closes, Kenneth follows a tip from Corinna and applies for a teller position at a local bank.
I don’t want to reveal much else.
Alphonso Walker Jr. and Jasminn Johnson. (Photos/Carolyn Rosegg)
For me, there was one small nag. The 3 main characters — Kenneth, Bert and Corinna — are Black (in accordance with the script). One actor is white: Kenneth’s boss at the bookstore, then the bank, played by the comical Greg Stuhr.
Though not denoted in the script, this casting choice was also in its original smash success off-Broadway.
An antagonistic relationship between older white men and younger Black men is a strong thread throughout modern theatrical and cinematic history, and it threw me off-course. Throughout the show I anticipated a clash or misunderstanding to be its climax, which never happened.
This expectation distracted me from the important themes of the play. Perhaps the casting was intended to disrupt this thread, and alter our preconceptions. I’m all for that.
Lighting designer Jonah Bobilin and sound designer Andrea Allmond deserve a special shout-out for their mastery of some tricky and impactful effects.
(“06880” covers Westport’s vibrant arts scene — and much, much more. If you appreciate any features on your hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
