David Roth and Kerry Long are co-directors of Staples Players.
That’s our local high school drama troupe. But if you’ve ever been to a Players show — and if you haven’t, why not?! — you know it is anything but a high school production.
In addition to their spectacularly professional work, both David and Kerry are Staples graduates. The other day, we chatted on the Westport Library stage about Players’ 66-year past, present and future (don’t miss “Elf” this November!).
Click below, to learn more about this amazing — and amazingly entertaining — organization.
More environmental news: Though yesterday was gorgeous (and the last full day of summer), the near-full moon and high tide brought flooding at Quentin Road by Compo Beach Road.
(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)
An odd-looking scene, for sure.
But perhaps something that will soon be the new normal?
Speaking (still) of the environment — as autumn has us thinking about trees and leaves — “06880” reader (and former federal attorney) Scooter Swanson cites Connecticut case law that finds “property owners have the right to trim branches or roots of a neighbor that encroaches onto their property up to the property line.”
There is no applicable state or local ordinance regarding such issue, he adds
Swanson notes that he is not licensed in Connecticut. “This is merely informative and not intended as legal advice,” he says.
Trees and property lines can become neighbor issues in Westport. (Photo/Roger Wolfe)
The Levitt Pavilion’s summer series continued last night — the last full day of summer — with Tower of Power.
(Photo/Susan Garment)
Shows continue into the fall. One of the highlights: Westport native Brad Tursi — Old Dominion’s lead guitarist/vocalist — appears on October 12, with his own band. Click here for full Levitt details.
With Halloween near, the Westport Country Playhouse presents “Ghost Stories and Legends” (October 10, 7 p.m.).
The event — part of the Barnstormer Series in the barn (under candlelight!) — is an evening of classic stories of the supernatural, with Broadway’s John Rapson.
He’ll present a special version of his solo show of Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” along with other with other ghostly tales.
Rapson says, “I guarantee laughs, chills and thrills. Just try not to lose your head…”
Tickets are $20. To purchase, and for more information, click here.
All women — and men — are invited to a special event, as part of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Authors Dr. Christine M. Cocchiola — a therapist and expert on coercive control — and divorce coach Amy Polacko will discuss their new book, “Framed: Women in the Family Court Underworld.”
It’s set for October 8 (7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport).
“Framed” exposes how domestic abuse victims are treated in the legal system, using stories from women around the world.
The talk will focus on red flags to look for in relationships, what is coercive control, the crisis in family courts, and how to protect oneself.
The event is sponsored by the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force and Rock the Walls, a non-profit offering help to victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
In the aftermath of Westport resident Tim Lewis’ death in July from pancreatic cancer — at 58, just a month shy of his 23rd wedding anniversary — his family and friends have set up a non-profit foundation.
They say: “While Tim’s life was shortened, his purpose and passion were always strong and his desire to help others defined much of his life.
“Tim balanced a demanding career with a tireless devotion to his family. He loved his wife and and kids deeply and actively. Tim was famous for coordinating play dates, soccer schedules, date night, violin and drum lessons, all while ordering fall clothing for the kids (to their chagrin) and making high-stakes work conference calls.
“He was a memory-making mastermind, relentless in his pursuit of family time through neighborhood walks, vacation hikes, and beach dinners. Even when it was just sitting at the kitchen table doing puzzles, being with family was the life experience Tim most valued.
“Our goal is to help other people and families struggling with the particularly challenging diagnosis of pancreatic cancer through research, clinical trials, and support.
On Thursday, the Longshore Ladies Nine Hole Golfers held their annual charity event at Longshore.
The women once again chose the Westport Woman’s Club food closet as their beneficiary.
They collected 4 grocery carts of food donations, and nearly $1,000 in cash.
Golfers’ donations, at the Westport Woman’s Club.
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At another golf event last week, the inaugural “Shank it for Shea” golf event drew a great turnout to Birchwood Country Club.
Significant funds were raised to advance Long QT Syndrome research and improve treatment options for those affected — including Mark and Kira Greenfield’s daughter Shea.
The event builds on 2 previous fundraisers. Both were dance-oriented, and were called “Shake it for Shea.”
The Greenfields are onto something. They do great work — and they do it with smiles. Perhaps the next one may be for skateboarders: “Shred it for Shea.”
For more details on their “Hearts in Harmony” Foundation, click here.
Posted onSeptember 21, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: Roxane Gay, ABBA, Christian Siriano …
StoryFest ’24 opened with a bang last night.
Author and activist Roxane Gay chatted on the Westport Library stage with writer Oliver Radclyffe. His memoir, “Frighten the Horses,” will be published this fall by Roxane Gay Books.
In just 7 years, StoryFest — the Library’s annual celebration of reading, writing, ideas and community — has become the largest literary festival in Connecticut.
Every genre of storytelling is covered, along with live podcast recordings, a special tribute to longtime and beloved Library friend Sybil Steinberg, the 2024 Westport Prize for Literature, a pitchfest and more. Click here for today and tomorrow’s jam-packed schedules.
Meanwhile, a few yards away, a packed lawn enjoyed ABBA.
Well, not exactly the legendary Swedish group. This was a tribute band. But they sure sounded the same.
Getting ready to enjoy the festivities — with appropriate glasses and neckwear — were (below, left to right) Gwen Tutun, Judy Burke, Toni Essertier, Ellen Bowen and Cathy Colgan. Mamma mia!
The entertainment continues tonight at the Levitt, with Tower of Power. The ticketed show begins at 7:30 p.m. Click here for more information.
You (probably) watched the first 2 debates of the election season, on CNN and ABC.
You can watch the third one live — right here at Town Hall.
On October 10 (7 p.m),, Westport’s League of Women Voters hosts candidates for State Senate District 26, and State Representative District 136. (The Norwalk LWV will host one for State Representative District 143; details to come.)
Questions can be sent in advance to lwvwestportct@yahoo.com.
The debate is co-sponsored by the PTA Council, Westport Sunshine Rotary Club, Y’s Men, Y’s Women and Westport Rotary Club.
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The Wall Street Journal calls it “‘Shark Tank’ meets Home Shopping Network.”
A new TV show next week features Amazon sellers pitching their products to a studio audience and judges. Among the panelists: designer (and Westport resident) Christian Siriano.
Finalists will have their inventions sold in a new Amazon “Buy It Now” online store. The winner of each episode will earn $20,000.
Click here for the full story. (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)
Christian Siriano
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What a blessing!
Everyone is invited to the Saugatuck Congregational Church lawn on Sunday, September 29, for a 10 a.m. blessing service. All pets are welcome — but on leashes or in carriers.
Photos are fine too. Even “stuffies”!
At 11 a.m., rescues and shelters will offer pets of all ages at a special adoption event. There will be food trucks too, and surprises for kids.
The Great Lawn of Saugatuck Congregational Church is well suited to a Blessing of the Animals.
Westport author Diane Parrish launches her new book, “Something Better,” at Westport Library on October 8 (6:30 p.m.). She’ll chat with her daughter, fellow author Amanda Parrish Morgan
In the book — set largely in Connecticut — Parrish pulls back the façade of carefully cultivated suburbs. With flashes of humor and insight, she examines notions of forgiveness and faith. Click here for more information.
Diane Parrish (center), and Amanda Parrish Morgan.
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The Weston History & Culture Center offers history experiences for all every Thursday and Sunday (1 to 4 p.m.), from now through November 24.
Visitors can:
Explore “Weston…What Lies Beneath.” The exhibit looks at one of Weston’s oldest homes, the Peter Thorp House. Through objects, rare photographs, videos and hands-on activities, discover what lies beneath and who lived above. Youngsters can dig for artifacts in the Kids Corner.
Take a guided tour of the Coley House, learning how the Coley family lived, worked and played during the 1940s. Kids can play with toys and games from that era, build with Lincoln Logs, and type on a typewriter.
Enjoy autumn with a stroll through the Daniel E. Offutt III Sculpture Garden.
Tickets at the door are $5 for adults, $3 for children; free for members of the Weston History & Culture Center.
Sculpture garden at Weston History & Culture Center.
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Former Westport resident Kathleen Elliott died peacefully on September 4. She was 73, and lived in Charlestown, Massachusetts.
An honors graduate of Northeastern University in economics, Kathy then earned an MBA from Boston University,
She had a long career at David L Babson, including vice president on the investment council. She was the first woman elected to the board of directors.
After leaving David L Babson, Kathy became interested in angel investing. She mentored several women-led companies. The experience led her to co-author a book, “The Old Girls’ Network.”
Kathy spent many hours enjoying tennis at Longwood Cricket Club, golfing at Turner Hill in Ipswich, Massachusetts, and skiing and golfing in Telluride, Colorado.
Her family says, “She had many friends, and was known for her kind-hearted, humble and upbeat nature, especially her creative wit and intelligence. Her excellent athletic skills and gracious sportsmanship made her everyone’s favorite tennis and golf partner.”
She is survived by her partner of 26 years, Ann Beard of 26 years; sisters Margaret Markovic (John) of Trumbull and Mary Sikorski (Brian) of Westport; brother Robert Elliott of Fairfield; niece Kathleen Haimoff and her children, James, Maya and David of Fairfield, and nephews Joseph Sikorski of Norwalk, and James Sikorski (Adrienne) of Brooklyn, and their son Charles.
Services will be private. Donations may be made to Angel Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston, and the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers, Massachusetts.
Kathleen Elliott
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Flamingos are known for standing on one leg.
Other birds: not so much.
But here is this guy (or maybe gal) gull, posing for today’s “Westport … Naturally” shot at Compo Beach.
Try as he/she might though, they’re just not stately.
And finally … “06880” did not get a chance to see the Levitt tribute band last night. But who doesn’t love a good ABBA song or two (or five)?
(Sure, there’s a lot going on this weekend. But you can count on “06880” to cover it all. If you’ve got a spare minute, please click here and spare some change to support our work. Thank you!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Roxane Gay, ABBA, Christian Siriano …
Carvana — the Arizona based used car dealer selling entirely online — appears to have gone the way of the Edsel.
After 5 years on Post Road West, diagonally across from Kings Highway Elementary School — at a site previously occupied by (among others) a Volkswagen dealership, and classic car showroom — the large lot is empty.
The interior has been stripped of its fixtures.
(Photos/Adrian Little)
Looks like one more niche for Amazon to fill.
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It takes a while to write a great (or even meh) poem.
Fortunately, it does not take long to put up a poetry box.
On Tuesday, at her installation as Westport’s new poet laureate, Donna Disch announced there would soon be a poetry box at Compo Beach.
Yesterday it was installed at the end of Soundview Drive, near where Hillspoint Road becomes Compo Road South.
The Woodside Bash — Earthplace’s great under-the-stars fundraiser is well known for its great food, live music and woodsy vibe.
This year’s event (Saturday, October 5, 7 to 10 p.m.) adds something new: contemporary line dancing.
After a filling harvest dinner, Bash-goers will enjoy a special lesson from experts.
All proceeds support Westport’s popular nature center. Earthplace continues its focus on bringing quality, nature-based programming and education to everyone – especially urban youth in Fairfield County and beyond.
Tickets include a harvest dinner, open bar, fire pit with s’mores, and band. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Attendees at last year’s Woodside Bash. This year, they’ll be line dancing.
StartUp Westport is starting up another season, offering innovative and impactful ideas.
This Tuesday (September 24, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library) features a night of cocktails, networking and information. The focus is on B Corporations, a new business model that allows companies to pursue both profit and purpose.
Hosted by Jen Gorin, founder of Impact Growth Partners, with a roundtable discussion led by Phil White and Heidi Schoeneck of Grounded World — both Westport-based Certified B Corps — the event highlights the importance of impact-driven business practices.
Michael Hermus of Westport-based mental health startup Halespring, Felicia Rubenstein of HAYVN, and Adam Thatcher of Grace Farms Tea & Coffee will share insights into how B Corp certification can enhance employee retention, market positioning and fundraising efforts.
The event is free, but registration is required; click here.
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Marc Lasry earned his billionaire status as a private equity manager.
He earned an NBA championship ring as co-owner of the Milwaukee Bucks.
Now — as women sports are having a moment — the Beachside Avenue resident may buy a controlling stake in a women’s team.
Sportico reports that Lasry is nearing a dal to purchase 60% of the National Women’s Soccer League North Carolina Courage from Steve Malik. The valuation is around $108 million.
Previously, Lasry expressed interest in the Seattle Reign. Sportico says he was also in the running to buy Angel City FC, before Willow Bay and Bob Iger purchased control of the NWSL’s most valuable club ($250 million valuation).
It’s not yet the holiday season. But it’s never too early for Earth Animal’s “Buy Joy to Gift Joy” project.
From now through December 31, the popular Post Road East store will donate 1 No-Hide Strip to shelter dogs, for every Pumpkin Spice or Holiday Feast No-Hide Chew purchase.
The goal is to donate No-Hide Chews to 80,000 shelter dogs. They’re an alternative to rawhide, offering dogs safe nutritious and enjoyable chew experiences.
Earth Animal
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We’ve posted this before, but it bears repeating.
This reminder comes from Cindy Nigro: “A basket in the lobby of Westport Police headquarters on Jesup Road is filled with lost keys. They’re dropped off by helpful folks all over town.
“I dropped off a set with an electronic fob that was unclaimed at Old Mill Beach for most of the summer.”
As anyone who has replaced them knows, those fobs are expensive! If you’ve lost one, it may be at the police station.
(Photo/Cindy Nigro)
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An appreciative crowd enjoyed the Matsiko World Orphan Choir yesterday. The Jazz Society of Fairfield County presented the concert, at Bedford Middle School.
The Liberian choir performs traditional African songs around the world, to champion the rights of all children to receive a basic education.
Dancing in the aisles, at Bedford Middle School. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
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There are still 2 days left of summer.
But squirrels have started gathering acorns for the winter already.
This guy stopped briefly, to pose for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.
Then it was right back to work. Those nuts don’t store themselves!
And finally … in honor of our town’s new poet laureate, and our first poetry box (story above):
(We’ll spare you a rhyme. But here’s a reason: If you enjoy these daily “06880” Roundups, please consider a tax-free contribution. Just click here. And thank you!)
Sigrid Schultz has been remembered — belatedly — in her longtime hometown of Westport, with a parking lot named in her honor.
But there is a lot more to her story than that.
Serving as the Chicago Tribune’s Berlin bureau chief from 1926 to 1941, Schultz masked her intense loathing for the Nazis in order to cultivate contacts at the highest level of the Third Reich. Among her many accomplishments, Schultz interviewed Adolf Hitler several times. She also fearlessly cast a barb at Hermann Göring for his failed attempt to have her arrested.
She boldly covered the persecution of Jews, was one of the first to report on abuses at the German concentration camps, and was once called “Hitler’s greatest enemy.”
Yet for all her accomplishments, Schultz’s story is largely untold.
Vanessa Johnston is working on a documentary film about her. It will explore her extraordinary career, from her heady days as a young reporter covering the Weimar Republic, to her writing in secret under an alias to avoid Nazi censors, on through her anguish at seeing the Buchenwald concentration camp, then her relatively obscure life in Westport.
Tomorrow (Thursday, September 19, 7 p.m., Westport Museum for History & Culture), Johnston will preview her unfinished film. There’s a talkback with the producer, and a look at a one-night-only display of artifacts owned by Schultz.
Click here for tickets ($5 for members, $10 for non-members). Proceeds support the museum’s exhibitions, programs and research.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Joseph J. Clinton Post 399’s 51st straight monthly Red Cross Blood Drive honors lance corporal Charles Rochlin, of the Marine Corps.
The 2003 Staples High School graduate spent 7 months in Iraq. He was on leave in Westport when he died in an automobile accident.
The blood drive is this Friday (September 20, noon to 5 p.m.).
Click here for an appointment; use sponsor code VFWWESTPORT. You can also call 800-733-2767.
CraftWestport returns to the Staples High School fieldhouse November 2-3. Over 175 vendors kick off the holiday shopping season, with thousands of products in mediums like ceramics, textiles, woodworking, jewelry, glass art and more.
Plus food items like bourbon-barrel aged maple syrup, hand-painted chocolates, teas, honey, cheese spreads, curds, baked goods, and skincare products, soaps, candles, etc.
All-weekend admission is $11; seniors $10, children 12-18 $5, children under 12 are free. Click here for more details. CraftWestport is presented by the Westport Young Woman’s League.
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The one good thing that has come out of the death of Rachel Doran — the 2015 Staples High School graduate who died just before her senior year at Cornell University after a rare reaction to common medication — is Rach’s Hope.
The non-profit provides nutritious food, lodging, transportation and encouragement to family members when a child is in intensive care.
Well, there’s one other good thing: community participating in “Walk the Extra Mile … for Rach’s Hope.”
The 4th annual event is Sunday, October 6 (Compo Beach Ned Dimes Marina, 3 p.m.).
The day includes community spirit, fresh air, a fun beach walk, live music by Ellis Island Acoustic, the Pizza Pie Wagon truck, wine and beer courtesy of Greens Farms Spirit Shop, and Rach’s signature black and white cookies.
All are welcome. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Rachel Doran
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A clarification on yesterday’s Roundup post about CLASP’s “Music Through the Decades” benefit (October 18, Fairfield Theatre Company).
Band Central — the great entertainment — is not “the CLASP house group.”
Band Central is made up of very talented professional musicians. At different times, members have played with very high-powered groups — including the Rolling Stones.
Band Central was created to unite a community of non-profits, musicians, donors, and audience members through themed music concerts. They’ve raised $6 million for over 60 Fairfield County organizations, and produced more than 150 events.
The October 18 show will raise funds to support CLASP’s clients, with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
A 6:30 p.m. pre-party includes light bites from Blue + Berries and Little Pub. The main event kicks off at 7:30.
Guests are encouraged to dress in the fashion of their favorite decade.
Tickets are $45 in person at the FTC office, $54 online or by phone (203-319-1404).
A clinical psychiatrist at the Yale Department of Psychology with a private practice, she spoke about her work as lead psychologist at Mountain Seed Foundation. It provides healing camps in places like the Austrian Alps for veterans of foreign wars who are suffering from trauma or war loss, and their families.
The week-long program includes physical activities like mountain climbing, zip lining, nature walks and art therapy.
Amit Oren (Photo/Ellin Curley)
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On Sunday night, Alex Sherman was walking his dog near Compo Road South.
Alex got to hear Peter Frampton’s concert (for free).
Plus, he spotted this cool-looking owl on Baker Street. It’s a great image, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … in the midst of one of the most polarized times in American history, today is National Respect Day.
(If you respect “06880” — or even just like it a little bit — please consider a tax-deductible contribution to support our work. Just click here. Thank you!)
Peter Frampton joined a long list of musical legends — from Willie Nelson and Cyndi Lauper to Smokey Robinson and Buckwheat Zydeco — when he headlined last night’s Levitt Pavilion annual fundraiser.
(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
The guitarist/singer’s show came alive, with — among other things — great graphics and a light show.
Peter Frampton (far right). He has inclusion body myositis, which prevents him from standing while performing. (Photo/Susan Garment)
(Photo/Susan Garment)
The pre-party, at Don Memo and Walrus Alley, drew a large crowd of fans and town officials.
Westport singer/songwriter Drew Angus — a popular Levitt Pavilion performer himself — was at the Peter Frampton pre-party. (Photo/Dan Woog)
The party and concert capped off a jam-packed weekend of Westport fundraisers, including Kristin Chenoweth at the Westport Country Playhouse, HarvestFest at Wakeman Town Farm, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s Slice of Saugatuck, and Band Aid for the Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services at Cedar Point Yacht Club.
Next week brings the Westport Rotary Club’s LobsterFest at Compo Beach, and the Westport Downtown Association’s annual Westoberfest.
Part of the Walrus Alley spread. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
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Kristin Schneeman and Liz Milwe — backers of Westport’s leaf blower regulations — have put up lawn signs reminding residents that gas blowers restrictions run through October 15.
“While this summer wasn’t perfect,” Kristin says, she perceived “significantly less gas leaf blower usage, which has been amazing.
“But after Labor Day it’s ticking up a bit. We want to remind folks that it’s electric-only for a few more weeks.”
Westporters will soon have another dining spot on Church Lane.
Coming soon to Bedford Square, near The Blondinit: Crêpes Choupette.
(Photo and hat tip/Sal Liccione)
This is their third location. There are Choupettes already in Darien and New Haven.
The “fabrication traditonelle” (which means “small-scale production” crêperie) joins — in addition to the Israeli restaurant — Mrs. London’s Bakery, Spotted Horse, Pink Sumo and Emmy Squared.
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Next Sunday (September 22, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.), Blau House & Gardens hosts a special children’s event, with author/illustrator Guy Billout.
He’ll read and sign copies of “The Frog Who Wanted to See the Sea.” There’s also a garden scavenger hunt (recommended for ages 3-8).
Tickets ($25 per family) include a signed book and scavenger hunt. Additional copies can be reserved. Click here for tickets, and more information.
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The spectacular moon drew plenty of photographers this weekend.
Jay Babina — a freshman at Manhattanville College — took these shots on Friday and Saturday nights, from his Westport yard. He then created this collage.
He took both without a telescope. He used a 20-year-oldl Nikon D200, with a zoom lens.
Jay says, “I think it’s impressive how such an old camera can still take such quality photos. It’s also very Star Wars-looking.”
When Johanna Keyser Rossi saw today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — milkweed pods shedding their seeds at Sherwood Island State Park’s West Beach — she thought, “usually I see only a few at a time. This is so good for the future of our monarch butterflies.”
And finally … Tito Jackson, an original member with his siblings of the Jackson 5 who then went on to a solo career, died yesterday. He was 70, and suffered a heart attack.
(From the Jackson 5 and Michael Frampton to gas-powered leaf blowers and restaurant news, “06880” entertains and informs readers every day. Please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Yesterday afternoon, a couple of thousand folks strolled and ate their way through Slice of Saugatuck, sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
Yesterday evening, Wakeman Town Farm’s Harvest Fest drew — as always — a capacity crowd.
The food stations were as spectacular as the views of the gardens, and the community vibe. It’s one of Westport’s best parties of the year (with a kick-ass band).
(Photos/Dan Woog
Yesterday, Westport Emergency Medical Services hosted their own fundraiser, at Cedar Point Yacht Club.
That event, called “Band Aid” — get it? — also had all the ingredients needed for success: food, drinks, music, and tons of people enjoying themselves.
(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)
And of course, the Westport Country Playhouse’s annual fundraising gala, featuring Kirstin Chinoweth, was a sold-sold, super-smash success.
But wait! There’s more!
Tonight, Peter Frampton comes alive at the Levitt Pavilion.
If you missed all the fun — or you had such a good time, you want more — get ready for next weekend.
Westoberfest — sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association — rocks Elm Street on Saturday (September 21, 2 to 5 p.m.).
Saturday afternoon and evening (3 to 7 p.m.), the Westport Rotary Club’s LobsterFest packs Compo Beach.
Felicia Sale invites “06880” readers to join Restore, in the fight against breast cancer.
As co-owner of the Post Road East wellness center offering cryotherapy, IV drips, infrared saunas and more, she has witnessed the profound impact the disease has on individuals and families.
Last year, her own life was forever changed when she was diagnosed with a non-invasive, early stage breast cancer confined to the milk ducts.
She was lucky. It turned out to be atypical/abnormal cells, but the journey to that discovery was very challenging.
Felicia underwent a bilateral mastectomy, a decision that was both physically and emotionally demanding.
She had not realized how many people in Westport had been affected by the disease until she went through it herself.
Felicia says, “I want to thank Pink Aid, and all the women in Westport who helped me navigate this journey. You know who you are. Your support was my strength, and I wouldn’t have been able to move forward without you.”
To pay it forward, she is forming a team for Making Strides Against Cancer, the October 20 walk-and-more at Sherwood Island State Park (9 a.m. to noon).
“This is a fantastic opportunity to come together as a community, have fun, and make a difference,” Felicia says.
Click here to join the Restore team, or make a donation.
As a special incentive, anyone donating $50 or more will receive a free core service at Restore. This includes a whole body cryo, infrared sauna session, red light therapy or compression therapy.
You’ll get a team t-shirt, too.
And the knowledge that you are “making strides” to make a difference, in the fight against breast cancer.
Felicia Sale
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Westport will soon have a new poet laureate.
Donna Disch succeeds Jessica Noyes McEntee, in the 2-year post. The public is invited to meet (and hear) the new laureate this Tuesday (September 17, 4 p.m., Westport Library).
The Westport Arts Committee and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will lead the event.
Disch is a 24-year Westport resident. She earned an MFA at Vermont College, and has participated in poetry workshops for more than 20 years.
Her poems have been published in the Aspen Anthology, Poetry East and Charleston Magazine, among others. A former high school English teacher, she loves working with children. Disch looks forward to taking more poetry into our schools.
McEntee, her predecessor, worked closely with the Westport Public Art Collections Committee, adding poetry to artworks hanging in schools and Town Hall.
A poem of hers can been seen alongside the Passages sculpture recently installed at Pasacreta Park on the river. McEntee ran poetry workshops at Westport’s Center for Senior Activities, MoCA CT and the Library.
Donna Disch
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Luca Lombardo is perfect — 13-for-13 — as the extra points kicker for Boston College’s football team.
The 2022 Staples High School graduate is a 5-11, 174-pound junior, in his second year with the Eagles.
He kicked for Staples as a senior, after spending much of his youth as a soccer player. He was on Beachside’s MLS Next academy team, which prohibits members from playing high school soccer. (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)
Luca Lombardo
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Orange meets green on Saturday, October 5.
From 10:30 a.m. to noon that day, Westport Book Shop, Earthplace and the Westport Tree Board are sponsoring a kids’ “Paint Pumpkins on Jesup Green” event. There will be “special animal visits,” too.
Youngsters are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes.
The Flying Fingers Jug Band returns to First Folk Sunday on October 6 (12:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club). They were hit last year, and are back by popular demand.
The FFJB will be joined by singer/guitarist/First Folk Sunday mastermind Suzanne Sheridan.
The band features an eclectic mix of instruments, including washboard, string bass, jug, dobro, mandolin, fiddle, banjo, kazoo, mouth harp and stove pipe.
They “fuse the energy of post-Prohibition revelry, the vocal harmonies of bluegrass, and the authenticity of a juke joint.” Former Westonite David Barron plays banjo and mandolin.
They have appeared in some of New York’s coolest taverns, and made their national TV debut on the Food Network’s “The Kitchen.”
Click here for tickets. The music cover charge is $15. Table service is available for brunch or lunch, along with cocktails and beverages.
For more information on First Folk Sunday, click here or call 203-984-7562.
Flying Fingers Jug Band
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Lou Weinberg sends along today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — and a plea. He says:
“This rough-legged hawk was hunting a red squirrel in the Long Lots Preserve, surrounding the Westport Community Gardens.
“It moved so intently, disregarding my presence for the most part, and focused on the hunt. It was incredible to watch.
(Photo/Lou Weinberg)
“The variety of trees, shrubs and wildflowers in the Long Lots Preserve makes it possible for nature to do its thing.
“The base of the food chain there (plants, insects) is very strong, and supplies energy all the way up to top level predators like this hawk. A healthy population of top-level predators keeps our ecosystems in balance.
“This rich, green open space is incredibly important to keeping our environment healthy through carbon sequestering, water retention and recycling, oxygen generation, temperature cooling, nutrient cycling and habitat supply.
“It would be incredibly disappointing to compromise this open space, especially considering the rapid pace of development and lack of open space on this side of town.
“It provides a wonderful opportunity for residents to take a break, slow down and appreciate the healing qualities of nature. What is being created here provides a phenomenal opportunity for environmental education for our children.
“Over a dozen local businesses and organizations have donated in-kind services to create this preserve. Over 100 people have donated tens of thousands of dollars to make the Long Lots Preserve a reality.
“Protecting this open space will benefit the town for generations. In a world where the environment is falling apart at the seams, this is an absolute model of suburban open space environmental rehabilitation.”
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And finally … Cannonball Adderley, the famed saxophonist and bandleader, was born on this date in 1928. He died in 1975, age 46, following a stroke.
Mercy, mercy, mercy!
(“Mercy me!” I hear you say. “How can I support ‘06880’?” It’s easy! Just click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution. We thank you!)
Superfans is a group of Staples High School students. They use social media to draw attention to upcoming athletic events.
Yesterday — as the school mourned the death of Max Harper, the 18-year-old killed yesterday in a dirt bike accident — they sent out a different message.
With school delayed today by 2 hours for staff to prepare, the teenagers organized a gathering at Compo Beach.
“Anyone and everyone is welcome” at 9 a.m., texts and social media messages said. “Feel free to bring flowers to pay your respects.”
They planned a moment of silence. They would put petals in the water.
“In terms of grievance, it is crucial that you spend time with loved ones,” the teens told each other.
“Regardless of your relation to Max, we encourage everyone to join the community and face this difficult time in unity.”
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Barbara Innamorati writes:
“It is bear season. This big boy spent 20 minutes at our house in the Charcoal Hill neighborhood, in 2 separate visits today (Wednesday).
(Photo/Barbara Innamorati)
“I reported it to the police.
“Bring your bird feeders in — it is like bear bait.
“There seem to be a lot of bear sightings these days. And they are more brazen than ever.”
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Think the Grand List assessment for your Maserati (or Kia) — or, this being Westport, Tesla — is too high?
The Board of Assessment Appeals meets Thursday, September 19, 2024 (Town Hall Room 201, 6 to 7 p.m.), to hear motor vehicle appeals.
The board says: “Be sure to bring the vehicle you are appealing with you.”
We assume that means to the parking lot, not Room 201 itself.
What’s the assessment on this bad boy? (Photo/Karen Como)
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The Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand series continues October 7 (7 p.m.) with “Witch.”
Written by Jen Silverman — author of “The Roommate,” now on Broadway with Patti LuPone and Mia Farrow — it’s about a “charming devil” who arrives in a quiet village. He bargains for the souls of its residents, in exchange for their darkest wishes.
“This sharp, subversive fable debates how much our souls are worth when hope is hard to come by,” the Playhouse says.
Kids’ Apple Delight Baking Bonanza (Ages 7-12; September 27, 4:15 to 5:30 p.m.).
Fall Cooking with the Minis (Grades K-2; Mondays, October 14 through November 11; also November 18 through December 16; 4:15 to 5:30 p.m.).
Autumn Bites & Delights — Kids’ Cooking Series (Grades 2-6; Wednesdays, October 10 through November 13; also November 20 through December 18; 4:15 to 5:30 p.m.).
Halloween-Inspired Adult Cooking Class (October 22, 7 p.m.).
Click here for more information, and to register.’
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Westport Police report no custodial arrests between September 4 and 11.
Posted onSeptember 12, 2024|Comments Off on Bottoms Up! Craig Melvin Tees Off On Colorectal Cancer
Craig Melvin has accomplished a lot in 45 years.
The “Today” show anchor and co-host has covered political conventions and presidential inaugurations. He has interviewed Bill Clinton, Joe Biden, Nikki Haley, John Kerry, Mike Pompeo and Condeleezza Rice. He has reported on mass shootings and police shootings. He has covered 6 Super Bowls, and 5 Olympics — including the most recent, in Paris.
But, the Westport resident says, nothing in his professional life compares with the honor and satisfaction he feels from the Bottoms Up Invitational.
That’s the 2-day entertainment and golf event he and his wife, Fox Sports NFL and NASCAR reporter Lindsay Czarniak, organize and host each year.
Craig Melvin and Lindsay Czarniak (right) with “Today” colleagues Carson Daly and Dylan Dreyer. at last year’s Bottoms Up Invitational.
This year’s 3rd annual concert/tournament/and more is set for this Sunday and Monday (September 15-16).
It’s dedicated to Craig’s brother, Lawrence Meadows. He died 3 years ago, less than 3 years after being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. He was 43 years old.
How great is the Bottoms Up Invitational?
Sunday night (6 p.m., Total Mortgage Arena, Bridgeport) features Branford Marsalis, Kristian Bush (Sugarland), Emerson Hart (Tonic), Drew Copeland (Sister Hazel), Edwin McCain (singer, songwriter and guitarist), and Javier Colon (“The Voice”), plus Ray Boudreaux, Eric Paslay, Chris Barron, Perston Pohl, Dan Tyminski, Sean Mackin, Patrick Davis and Lauren Jenkins.
There’s a full concert, plus dinner, an open bar, celebrity mingling, a live auction, and an after-party.
Great music, at Bottoms Up.
That’s just the warm-up.
On Monday (Brooklawn Country Club, Fairfield), golfers spend a day on the course, with a group of celebrities.
They include — in addition to all the performers — Westport actor Stephanie Szostak, Willie Geist, Hilton Carter, Debbe Dunning, Corey Miller, Rutledge Wood, Tyrone Corbin, Alex English, Jimmy Roberts and Dylan Dreyer.
Plus, of course, Craig Melvin and Lindsay Czarniak.
All proceeds go to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. The non-profit advocates for screening, helps patients navigate treatment, and funds research. Craig is a proud board member.
In its first 2 years, Bottoms Up has raised over $2.1 million.
Raising awareness of colorectal cancer is not easy. “People don’t like to talk about colons, rectums, or blood in their stool,” Craig says.
But it’s the second most common cause of cancer deaths for men and women are combined. It’s expected to cause over 53,000 deaths this year alone.
(I should note here that “Bottoms Up” may be the best name ever for a colorectal fundraiser that also involves an open bar.)
When his brother died, Craig did a couple of segments on “Today.” But he and his wife wanted to do more.
A South Carolina native, Craig knew of Darius Rucker’s “Monday After The Masters” celebrity pro-am golf tournament. Hosted by Hootie & the Blowfish in Myrtle Beach following the annual golf event, it raises millions of dollars for children’s educational programs, and the state’s junior golf program.
“It’s a great idea. I ripped it off,” Craig admits.
The same people who run Rucker’s show do this one.
It’s a win-win, on so many levels. Everyone has a ton of fun — including the post-party karaoke, when “people who think they can sing, actually try to.”
It’s a reunion of sorts for Craig. Plenty of family members attend. This year, for the first time, his brother’s 2 children will speak.
Craig Melvin, Lindsay Czarniak and their children, in their Westport home. (Photo courtesy of WestportMoms)
It even gives an economic boost to Bridgeport. “We wanted to keep this local,” Craig notes. “This is a great venue, and we’re giving back to the community.”
The community is sure giving back to Craig, and the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.
“I’m amazed at the generosity of friends, strangers, and corporations large and small,” Craig says.
Impressively, nearly everyone who signed on the first year returned last year. Now they’re back for the third event.
The concert, reception and golf outing is more important than anything he’s done on the air, Craig says.
“I know I couldn’t do this without my professional career,” he says.
“But when I’m dead and gone, people won’t talk about a 7:30 a.m. segment I did on the ‘Today’ show.
“I hope they’ll talk about what kind of dad I’ve been, what kind of husband and brother, and what I’ve done with my life.”
And if they drink a toast to Craig Melvin, they’re sure to say: “Bottom’s Up!”
(Click here for tickets, and more information on the Bottoms Up Invitational.)
Comments Off on Bottoms Up! Craig Melvin Tees Off On Colorectal Cancer
As our town (and the rest of the nation) debates the impact of smartphones on kids, the Westport Public Schools take a lead role.
In partnership with Westport Together, the district is hosting Dr. Delaney Ruston. A Fulbright Scholar, physician and filmmaker, she created the 2016 documentary “Screenagers.“
The event — “Parenting Screenagers: Tips for Success” — is set for Monday, September 23 (7 p.m., Bedford Middle School auditorium). Ruston will share tools that help parents manage screen time issues.
Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice says, “the community is well aware of my convictions about the negative impact that smartphones and social media have had on our children, from elementary through high school.
“I strongly encourage you to make every effort to attend. I will be there, alongside our families and school community.”
Speaking of food and drink: It’s called a Beer Garden, but Wakeman Town Farm’s Sunday, October 13 event (noon to 4 p.m.) is fun for the whole family.
The day includes live music by Hitch and the Giddy-Up + Rob Morton, lawn games, bubbles, animal encounters, and pumpkin crafts.
Among the lunch options: Pizza by Tony Pizza Napolitano, treats from Food Truck Refinery, and ice cream from Saugatuck Sweets and LANDTECH!
Adults enjoy local beers from Greens Farms Spirits, and spirits by 5th State Distillery.
Tickets are $10 for adults; kids go free. Food, beverage and craft purchases are a la carte. Proceeds benefit Wakeman Town Farm educational programs. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
As everyone some people only astronomers know, this Saturday is International Observe the Moon Night.
The annual worldwide event encourages observation and appreciation of (duh) the Moon.
Thanks to the Westport Astronomical Society, you can do it in their great observatory (182 Bayberry Lane, 8 p.m.).
If skies are clear, they’ll open the dome and use their telescopes to look at features on the waxing gibbous moon.
The WAS says: “The giant satellite has been Earth’s constant companion for an estimated 4.5 billion years, and viewed by every human that’s ever walked the Earth.
“It’s one of the solar system’s most remarkable objects, and quite likely a major reason that life even exists on our planet. The moon is an incredible body that has fascinated and puzzled our ancestors from the very first time we looked up.
“Don’t know your Mare from a Mons? Can’t tell a Sinus from a Vallis? A Crater from an Oceanus? Saturday is the night to find out. We’ll point out the Apollo landing sites as well as craters, the ‘oceans’ of the Moon, and features like the Straight Wall. See you for some lunacy at 8 p.m.”
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Westport chefs are on the menu at Harvesting Hope.
The benefit for Bridgeport Rescue Mission (September 19, 6 p.m., Aitoro Appliances, 401 Westport Avenue, Norwalk) — a night of delicious food tasting and philanthropy.
Among the 8 celebrity chefs cooking for guests: Bill Taibe (owner of Don Memo, The Whelk and Kawa Ni), and Matt Storch of Match Burger Lobster.
Extra course: A special presentation by Michel Nischan. The leader in sustainable food practices and 4-time James Beard Award winner is also a founder of the Westport Farmers Market.
Staples High School Class of 1961 graduate Michael Friedman brought his rock ‘n’ roll photos from 1969 to ’73 — of the Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin, The Band and so many others — to yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.
Friedman — a producer and manager in the music business from the ’60s through the ’80s — described the long, strange trip his negatives took, from the heyday of rock to their discovery by his wife in 2017.
They’ve now been published in a book called “Exposed: The Lost Negatives and Untold Stories of Michael Friedman.”
Friedman told the Rotarians about many of the performers he represented, including the Stones, Joplin, Band, Tina Turner, Rita Coolidge and his “hero and inspiration,” Kris Kristofferson.
Michael Friedman, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
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Weston resident Hilary Gibson died Saturday, in Weston. She was 66.
After graduating from WC Mepham High School on Long Island in 1975, she earned a BA from Tufts University in 1979, and an MBA from Columbia Business School in 1982.
Hilary worked in financial services as a chief of staff at Marine Midland, Lehman Brothers, CS First Boston and Credit Suisse Private Banking until 1998, when she retired.
She and her husband moved to Atlanta, and focused attention on their son Ted.
Hilary was an avid long distance bike rider, hiker and sailor. She trekked in the Himalayas, sailed in the Caribbean, and skiing in the East and West.
After living in the Netherlands while her husband was with ING, Hilary and the family returned to Westport in 2004. Among other activities, she was head of education at the Westport Historical Society.
Hilary is survived by her husband Weston; son of New York City; cousins RuthAnn Stafford of Boseman, Montana, and Toby Meshberg, of Fairfield, and brother, Zachary Wechsler of Torrance, California.
Funeral services will be held tomorrow (Thursday, September 12, 1 p.m., Temple Shalom, Norwalk. Burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery in Westport.
Shiva will be observed at the home of William Gibson in Weston tomorrow after the internment, until 8 p.m. For more information, to join a livestream, or to share a condolence message, click here.
And finally … in honor of both International Observe the Moon Night, and Harvesting Hope (stories above):
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Raising awareness of colorectal cancer is not easy. “People don’t like to talk about colons, rectums, or blood in their stool,” Craig says.
