Category Archives: Entertainment

Roundup: Taxes, Fireworks, Farmers Market …

Posted on June 30, 2026 | 13 comments

If it’s (almost) the beginning of July, it’s time for … taxes.

Most Westporters received their new real estate, personal property and motor vehicle taxes, plus any sanitary sewer use and assessment charges, yesterday. They’ll be available online too, beginning tomorrow (Wednesday).

First quarter payments are due July 1. Fortunately, we’ve got until August 3 to pay them, without penalty. Late fees are 1.5% per month.

Payments may be made by credit card, debit card, or direct withdrawal from a checking account on-line at www.westportct.gov. The tax collector’s PO box has been closed, but checks made payable to “Town of Westport” can be mailed to Tax Collector, Room 109, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

Payment can also be made in person (Town Hall Room 109), 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

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Speaking of the beginning of July: Westport’s annual fireworks display is Thursday (July 2).

Just a few tickets remain for the town’s biggest and best bash of the year.

The pyrotechnics begin just after 9 p.m., at Compo Beach. But hours earlier, residents begin partying — eating, playing, strolling, meeting friends and strangers. They keep going all night long.

The event is sponsored by longtime residents Melissa and Doug Bernstein, the Police Athletic League and Parks & Recreation Department.

This year they promise new, never-before-seen fireworks effects, plus an extended, extraordinary finale.

You need a ticket to park at the beach. Thanks to the Bernsteins, every purchase includes a “FlowArt Guided Art Pad” — custom-designed for Westport.

Ticket proceeds benefit Westport PAL, and their programs and scholarships serving thousands of youngsters. The few remaining tickets are available at Police headquarters on Jesup Road (24 hours a day) and the Parks & Recreation office at Longshore, near the first tee (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

Party at Compo! (Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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Speaking of the fireworks … Seen on social media, and posted without comment:

“Looking for someone to set up a group of beach chairs early in the morning this Thursday July 2nd at Compo. Please DM me if you are interested or have a college kid home for the summer who would be! Thank you.”

Also posted without comment. (Photo/Matty Murray)

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As a heat wave settles in, the Westport Farmers’ Market will open this Thursday an hour earlier than usual (9 a.m.), and close promptly an hour earlier too (1 p.m.). Vendors who can set up by 9 will do so. Some may arrive later.

Shoppers are encouraged to arrive early, in the cooler morning hours.

Stay cool with strawberries!

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The heat wave will send droves of Westporters onto (hopefully cooler) Long Island Sound.

Here’s an important reminder from Michelle Larson. She went boating yesterday, and writes: “We picked up at least a dozen Mylar balloons between Compo and Peck’s Ledge. Most are Father’s Day, Graduation Day and a few red and blue stars.

“Might be a good reminder on tying tight and disposing of properly. Or better yet: Just don’t buy balloons!”

Reagan Larson, age 9, with her bounty of balloons.

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As The Inn at Longshore and La Plage restaurant get set to reopen (soon!), they’re looking to fill positions, of all kinds.

A job fair will be held on-site today and tomorrow (Tuesday and Wednesday), from noon to 6 p.m.

Questions? Email mryan@innatlongshore.com.

Putting the finishing touches on The Inn at Longshore.

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“Bernstein’s Wall” — Westport filmmaker Doug Tirola and producer Susan Bedusa’s documentary about Leonard Bernstein — earned rave reviews at the Tribeca Film Festival, then at its theatrical premieres in New York and Los Angeles.

Now — finally — it will be screened locally.

The one-night-only event is July 9 (7 p.m., SHU Community Theatre, Fairfield).

Extra special highlight: Tirola and Bernstein’s daughter Jamie will take part in a post-show talkback, moderated by longtime film critic (and Westporter) Susan Granger.

“Bernstein’s Wall” traces the composer/conductor’s lifelong struggle to create social change and bring people together through his work.

While towering over the worlds of classical music, Broadway, television and culture, he advocated for progressive political change. He lent his name to numerous causes and groups, at great personal risk.

The film captures the sweeping arc of Bernstein’s life, sharing his private thoughts about America, politics, race, family, media, sex and religion. Click here to purchase tickets. (Hat tips: Fred Cantor and Caroline Owens)

Leonard Bernstein

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Nina Bentley — the very creative, always whimsical Westport artist — is featured all month in a Senior Center art show. The title is “I Do, Or Maybe Not.”

Thirty pieces of art — some including her trademark typewriter — are on display during operating hours (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

She’ll give a special artist talk on July 16.

Several pieces from Nina Bentley’s art show.

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The other day, Michael Chait snapped this intriguing view of the downtown Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge:

(Photo/Michael Chait)

No, the town has not put the iconic span up for sponsorship.

That’s just a (very long) truck crossing the bridge.

Although, come to think of it, maybe a corporate sponsor for that other bridge over the Saugatuck River could fund its renovation, without surrendering to the state …

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There is always something special to see at Sherwood Mill Pond.

Judith Katz captured extra-special light the other day, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Judith Katz) 

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And finally … David Clayton-Thomas, “a homeless Toronto runaway who learned guitar in prison and went on to become the lead singer of the gritty, blues-inspired band Blood, Sweat & Tears,” died Wednesday in Toronto. He was 84.

(Want to make “06880” very happy? Please click here, to make a tax-deductible donation to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Environment, Longshore

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Roundup: Patriotic Home Decor Contest, Westport 250 Picnic, Free Levitt Pavilion Shows …

Posted on June 29, 2026 | 1 comment

A few more days remain in Westport’s Patriotic Home Décor Contest. The community celebration honors America’s 250th anniversary.

The idea is to decorate your home in red, white and blue — flags, bunting, lights, flowers, window displays, lawn décor, or any other creative expression of patriotic pride.

The contest is open to all Westport residents. Displays should be completed by July 5.

Winners will be announced July 8, during the “Sharing the Spirit of America: A Reading of the Declaration of Independence” event at the Westport Library.

The winner receives a parking pass for the 2027 Westport PAL Fireworks — our 251st anniversary — including reserved VIP parking.

For more information and to submit an entry, click here.

We’re not sure if this house on Bradley Street at Compo Road South is part of the Patriotic Home Décor Contest. If it’s not, it should be. (Photo/Ed Simek)

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Meanwhile, VFW Post 399 hosted a “Westport 250” picnic yesterday.

They — and American Legion Post 63 — welcomed 100-plus veterans, their families and community members to a “Spirit of America” celebration.

Celebrating at the VFW (from left): Buyile Rani, VFW quartermaster Phil Delgado, Frank Veno and Patty Kondub,

.“America’s 250th Birthday reminds us of the sacrifices made throughout our nation’s history and the importance of the freedoms we enjoy today,” says VFW Post 399 quartermaster Phil Delgado.

“Together, we and all our volunteers proudly honored America’s past while looking forward to its future.”

Thanks to both great groups, for kicking America’s birthday week off in style.

The Kondub family was out in force yesterday. Nancy Kondub Harris and her brother John Kondub greeted guests — and Patty Kondub took their photo.

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Speaking of the 250th birthday of America — “the land of the free”: The entire upcoming week of Levitt Pavilion shows is free.

The schedule:

  • Tuesday, June 30 (7 p.m.): Liz Glazer Comedy Night: Pride Edition 
  • Wednesday, July 1 (7 p.m.): Hall Family: Children’s Series
  • Friday, July 3 (7:30 p.m.): Clay Street Unit (bluegrass, folk, Americana, country)
  • Saturday, July 4 (7:30 p.m.): Early Clover (former Coasters’ lead singer; tribute to Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Nat King Cole, Otis Redding and more)
  • Sunday, July 5 (7 p.m.): Back to the Garden 1969: Woodstock Experience (featuring Staples graduate Michelle Pauker)

For more information, and to reserve free tickets, click here. 

Back to the Garden 1969: Coming to the Levitt Pavilion July 5.

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Speaking of the Levitt: Last night was extra special.

Wynton Marsalis brought his Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra to the riverside theater. He’s the latest in a 50-plus-years list of stars to entertain here, under the — well, stars.

One view of the Lincoln Center Orchestra … (Photo/Susan Garment)

… and another … (Photo/Susan Garment) 

… and a third. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

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The Great Duck Race results are in!

The Sunrise Rotary Club announces the winners of their annual event, a fundraiser for all their charitable work.

But first, how about a big quack! for this result: The 3,262 tickets sold are a record for the always-popular annual event.

The $5,000 grand prize winner — and most lucky duck — is Lindley Maglio.

Finishing second ($1,00o) is Ken Epstien.

Earning $500 each: Ann Wortman, Terry Eldh, David Press, Gary Munowitz, Robert Mullany, Ginger Propper, Lindsay Wheeler and Stacey Goodwin.

Well done, all! (Even if you had nothing to do with “winning,” beyond buying a ticket.)

And they’re off! (Photo/Dariusz Terepka Photography)

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Yesterday, “06880” shined a (metaphorical) spotlight on Westport street signs.

We wondered if the town could get rid of at least some of the irrelevant, superfluous, outdated and/or idiotic ones that seem to be everywhere.

One reader noted that some signs — the ones that say “Construction Ahead” (even when there is none) — are the responsibility of the state. He provided a couple of helpful contacts there: Sal.Hussein@ct.gov and Elona.Coppola@ct.gov.

He also sent his own “favorite” sign, from Easton Road near the Merritt Parkway:

No, you’re not missing anything. That’s what it looks like.

The state Department of Transportation told the reader it would be taken care of — 2 years ago.

He’s still waiting.

FUN FACT: This stands at about the same spot where, for many years, a sign gave the distance to “Upper Stepney.”

No one here could figure out why, of all the places to travel to, that was singled out.

Part of the puzzlement also came because very few people had any idea where it is. (Part of Monroe, thank you.)

We wondered too: Was there a sign in Upper Stepney, noting the distance to Westport?

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First Folk Sunday — the 1st-Sunday-of-the-month afternoon folk series — begins its 4th season this week (July 5, 12:30 p.m. Saugatuck Rowing Club).

The Hot Club of Black Rock is the headliner, paying homage to legendary guitarist Django Reinhardt.  The group specializes in jazz manouche (gypsy jazz) and “hot swing,” popularized in 1920s and ’30s Paris.

Suzanne Sheridan will be back for all shows, starting August 2. The Saugatuck Rowing Club offers a First Folk Sunday brunch menu at each show.

For more information, and to purchase tickets (most shows sell out), click here.

The Hot Club of Black Rock.

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Speaking of singing: A Cappella Central — the summer singing camp for students entering grades 3 to 12 — has just signed another star instructor.

Broadway performer Mia Gentile — a 2007 Staples High School graduate — returns home this summer.

From August 17 to 22 she’ll lead a masterclass, offer individual and group feedback, and host a Q-and-A.

The “Kinky Boots” star will also take the sage alongside campers in the final concert (and perform solo selections of her own). The Westport community is invited to the show.

Mia was recently seen on the Metropolitan Opera House stage with Sting and Shaggy in Sting’s musical “The Last Ship.”

Also teaching a masterclass: former Staples choral director Luke Rosenberg. Other teachers include Gedalia Penner-Robinson of The Community Synagogue, Sara Hoefer (Fairfield Ludlowe High School) and Will Mandelbaum (Wilton High).

The camp is run by Danielle Merlis — a Staples graduate, performer, film composer and founder of The Cello Camp — and Robert Kwan, an organist, pianist, choir director, piano instructor, and former Staples accompanist.

For more information, and to register for A Cappella Central, click here.

Mia Gentile

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For the 2nd year in a row, a pair of barn swallows made a nest at Tricia Summers’ home, above her security camera.

Four babies have now hatched. The parents take good care of them. They have learned that the humans coming and going past the door (including Amazon delivery people) are harmless.

Tricia sends along this photo — an intriguing candidate for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Tricia Summers)

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And finally … the upcoming Levitt Pavilion concert featuring Early Clover (item above) sent us down a YouTube rabbit hole. Here’s what we found:

(What’s going on? Just the usual: 24/7/365 coverage of everything Westport, on “06880.” We hope what’s also going on is our readers clicking here, to support our work. Thanks — see you at the Levitt!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Transportation

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Michelle Pauker Comes Back To The Garden — And The Levitt

Posted on June 26, 2026 | 4 comments

The Levitt Pavilion books over 55 free nights of entertainment each year — and several more paid-ticket shows.

Every performer takes a different road to the riverside amphitheater. Some hear about it through the entertainment grapevine, or friends of friends. Directors Carleigh and Freda Welsh reach out to others.

But it’s hard to top Michelle Pauker’s story, for twists, turns, coincidences — and a local angle.

Michelle Pauker

The 2013 Staples High School graduate and her band, Back to the Garden 1969, have just been signed for July 5. They perform music of Woodstock, and have done it twice before at the Levitt.

This will be Pauker’s first time here with the group. But she knows Woodstock music well.

Her parents, Mark and Morgaine Pauker, love those songs. They shared it with their children from the time they were young. (Of course, they were born more than 2 decades after that memorable weekend.)

So it wasn’t surprising when Michelle wanted a Woodstock-themed party for a “milestone” birthday celebration last year.

She asked her dad to help find musicians who perform that era’s music: Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Santana, The Who, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Joe Cocker, Jefferson Airplane, The Band, and many more,

That was harder than it sounds.

“It turns out it’s not easy finding a band that can play the variety of music that was performed at Woodstock — let alone play it well,” Mark says.

After several weeks, and pretty much out of options, he remembered a Woodstock tribute group he and Morgaine had seen at the Levitt, years earlier.

But he had no idea who they were.

An internet search revealed the band’s name — Back to the Garden 1969 — and their previous Levitt shows, in 2016 and ’17.

Their website indicated that most of their shows now are multi-media theater events — though they still played a few smaller venues.

Mark called the leader, Gary Adamson, and asked if they were available for a private party.

The stars were aligned. They played on Michelle’s birthday.

“The day was magical,” Mark says. “The band was amazing, and everyone had a great time.”

Six months later, Gary called Mark. Their lead female singer was leaving to pursue a solo career. Did he think Michelle would be interested in joining the band?

Mark gave Gary her contact information. The rest, he says, is history. (Though not as historic as Woodstock.)

Michelle has performed with the group throughout the Northeast, from Annapolis, Maryland to — yes — Woodstock, New York.

Michelle Pauker (left), with the band.

Mark says, “I love the confluence of events, and the timing of it all. We first discovered the band because they played at the Levitt. They performed at Michelle’s party on her birthday last year.

“Now, exactly one year later, she’ll be their lead singer at the Levitt Pavilion — on her birthday!”

In Joni Mitchell’s song “Woodstock,” she came upon a child of God, and asked him where he was going.

He said he was “going down to Yasgur’s farm — gonna join in a rock ‘n’ roll band.”

Decades after Woodstock, Michelle Pauker joined a rock ‘n’ roll band too.

On July 5, she’s going down to the Levitt Pavilion.

She’ll set her soul free — back to the garden.

(Free tickets to the July 5 Back to the Garden 1969 concert are available starting at 10 a.m. today. Click here to reserve, and for more information.) 

The crowd at the Levitt Pavilion will not be this large. But it may be close.

(“06880” covers Westport’s entertainment scene regularly. If you like fun, hometown stories like this — or anything else on “06880” — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Entertainment, Staples HS

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Roundup: Wynton Marsalis, Kawa Ni …

Posted on June 25, 2026 | 4 comments

The big Levitt Pavilion event this weekend is Wynton Marsalis.

The world famous trumpeter brings his Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra to the riverside amphitheater on Sunday (June 28), for 2 sets at 7 p.m. They’re preceded by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Youth Orchestra at 6.

That’s a paid ticket event, of course. But there are 3 free shows, starting tonight:

  • Today (Thursday, 7 p.m.): Tutti & the Fruity Band (Children’s Series)
  • Friday (7:30 p.m.): Chaparelle (singer/songwriter duo)
  • Saturday (7 p.m.): Circles Around the Sun (Los Angeles-based instrumental rock).

Click here for more information, and tickets.

Wynton Marsalis

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Did you know Kawa Ni has a rooftop garden?

And if you did, did you know you could hang out there and paint?

Well, it does. And this Sunday (June 28, 6:30 to 8 p.m.), it’s open for a “Paint + Sip” event.

Artist Lauren Smith will lead guests, as they create, sip and enjoy lite bites, overlooking the Saugatuck River.

For $56, you get painting supplies, an 8″x10″ canvas, and Kawa Ni fare. Wine, sake and cocktails are available for purchase. Click here to register. (Hat tip: Sall Liccione)

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Westport Policy charged a 39-year-old Stratord woman with 3 counts of larceny, following a series of thefts from Ulta. The total amount of merchandise was nearly $8,000.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to obey stop sign: 3 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Improper use of markers: 2
  • Evading responsibility: 1
  • School zone violation: 1
  • Texting while driving: 1
  • Driving unreasonably fast: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1

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Alvin (Al) Gregory Hegeman died unexpectedly at home on June 13. He was 83, and a Westport resident since 1988.

He was a longtime board member of the Friends of Sherwood Island State Park, and served as treasurer during construction of the Nature Center.

Al spent his early childhood in the Philippines and Japan, where his father was a US Army intelligence officer. That experience instilled in him a love of travel, and an appreciation of diverse cultures.

He played football at Williams College, majored in economics, and was one of the first members of the Williams Rugby Football Club.

He served in Malawi. in the Peace Corps, where he married Hope Oliker, a girl from his hometown who was working as a report for the Malawi Times. He loved the country and his colleagues, and returned to visit frequently.

After earning an MBA at Harvard Business School, he returned to Africa with First National City Bank. As it evolved into Citicorp, he held senior positions in South Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Thailand and Liberia. .

He returned to the US with Citibank in 1980, Al retired as the Corporate Asset Funding CEO in 2002, but soon went back to work as a founding partner and chief investment officer of Paramax, an investment firm.

Al played rugby in the US and overseas, He was a Chicago Cubs season ticket holder when Wrigley Field hosted its first night game. He sat through countless Bears games in sub-zero temperatures, snd rarely missed a Williams Homecoming game.

Al loved historical biographies. He was a member of the Y’s Men, the Old Asia Hands, the World Affairs Forum of Stamford and the Westport League of Women Voters.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Hope; daughters, Hilary (Scott Castle) Hageman, Heather (Bill) Urbaitis and Shanti (Kyde Sharp) Hageman; grandchildren Jocelyn and Charlotte Wulf,  Greg Wyatt and Xander Rubidge, James, Floyd and John (Jack) Sharp; aunt Betty Shaver Voorhees, brothers-in-law, Mike (Ginny) and Dave (Lynn) Oliker, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, and his rescue dog Ebbie. He was predeceased by his younger brother James Voorhees Hageman.

The family is planning a farewell party for Al at the end of the summer, and his ashes will be placed in the Shire River in Malawi sometime next year. Donations may be made to Malawi Children’s Village or to Ascent Soccer.

Al Hageman

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We don’t often feature indoor shots for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

But this one brings the outdoor inside. It works well.

(Photo/Ellen Wentworth)

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And finally … happy National Lightning Safety Awareness Week!

(From the Levitt Pavilion to Kawa Ni’s roof, Westport has it all. And “06880” tells you all about it — 24/7/365. We rely on reader support to do it. Please click here to help us spread the word. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants

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Staples Players Rewind: “Curtains”

Posted on June 23, 2026 | 1 comment

In the fall of 2010, curtains rose on Staples Players’ production of “Curtains.”

As always, media teacher Jim Honeycutt was there, to record the comedy, filled with great songs and talented dancers.

And as always, he shared this “nutshell” with our “06880” audience. Click here or below to relive the magic.

Many of the actors have gone on to careers in entertainment. Others have shifted careers. Among them:

Max Samuels (Lieutenant Frank Choffi) is a stage and screen actor known for his roles in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” He also appeared in “George Kaplan,” “Angry Young Man,” “The Winter’s Tale” and “The Brothers Karamazov.”

Eva Hendricks (Carmen Bernstein) is a lead singer in Charley Bliss, a successful New York band. Their current release is “Back There Now.”

Matthew Van Gessel (Christopher Belling, The Director) is an actor, director and writer. He played Isaac Goodenow in the “The Sudbury Devil,” appeared in the film “Bookworm,” was featured as an actor in the project RedDrop, and was cast as Father Rand in “The Vampires of New Orleans.”

Michelle Pauker (Georgia Hendricks) is a singer and actor. She has appeared in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Idaho Shakespeare Festival), “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (Great Lakes Theatre Company), and “Into The Woods (Forestburgh Playhouse).

Charlotte Weber (Niki Harris, The Ingenue) performed in many productions at Connecticut College. She then attended the International Culinary Center, and now works professionally as a pastry chef.

Sofia Ribolla (Niki Harris, The Ingenue) transitioned her focus from theater to to medicine while in college  and is an optometrist at Greenwich Ophthalmology Associates in Stamford.

Whitney Andrews (The Stage Manager) is an actress, writer and educator with credits on TV, streaming services and Off-Broadway theater.

Matt Greenberg (Bobby Pepper, The Choreographer) is a tenure track assistant professor of theatre and dance at the University of Wyoming.

Jamie Yarmoff (Babi Berne, The Featured Dancer) is a renewable energy professional and chapter leader for Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy. She founded and established the WRISE Utah Chapter in Salt Lake City.

Madeline Seidman (Jessica Cranshaw, The Leading Lady) is an actor. Her off-Broadway credits include “Garside’s Career,” “Partnership” and “Becomes a Woman.” Regional credits include “Love, Love, Love” (Washington) and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf” (Chautauqua, New York). She can be seen in the TV shows “Elsbeth” and “A League of Their Own.”g networks and television channels.

Charlie Greenwald (Harv Fremont) is an actor, voiceover artist, comedian, copywriter and children’s book author. He has appeared in the film “The Trial of the Chicago 7” and the TV special “Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert.”

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Songs, Yachts, Cats …

Posted on June 22, 2026 | 3 comments

The word is out: The VFW is Westport’s new hot place for entertainment.

From tribute bands to comedy, the club on at the Riverside/Saugatuck avenue fork — with a killer view of the Saugatuck River — is a great spot to chill with friends, have a drink and some bar food, and do it all without breaking the bank.

This Saturday (June 27; 6:30 p.m. doors, 7:30 p.m.) you can do it with a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer.

Mark Naftalin — the Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s keyboardist, and a longtime Westport resident — plays piano.

And he’s bringing along some A-list friends.

Connecticut Blue Hall of Famer Paul Gabriel (guitar and vocals), Connecticut  Blues Challenge winner Mark Zaretsky (harmonica and vocals), bassist Paul Opalach, drummer Nick Longo and special guest Washboard Slim (washboard and vocals) will rock the house.

It’s just $20 — cash at the door.

The VFW asks for a 1-drink minimum — “even if it’s only a soda.”

A small price to pay, to hear some legit Hall of Fame sounds.

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Speaking of music: Walrus Alley celebrated both Father’s Day and the first day of summer yesterday, with live music outside.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

The alley was there long before the restaurant. But it’s a great place for a show.

Then again, so is Church Lane, Bedford Square, Jesup Green … just about any place downtown.

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A yacht anchored near the Compo Beach shore — just a few yards beyond the buoy — has gotten Westporters wondering: Who owns it? And: Why is it there? 

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

This is hardly the first yacht to attract attention.

In the 1960s — when he was wooing Westporter Mia Farrow — Frank Sinatra moored offshore.

Eric Clapton was rumored to have dropped anchor there twice, in 2009 and 2010.

In 2021, Rosehearty — Rupert Murdoch’s former 185-foot vessel, which he sold to a Westporter — drew admiring glances (and a few lucky visitors from the mainland).

We’re not sure who owns this yacht. But we hope they enjoy their visit.

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Speaking of yachts: How about this beauty?

Jamie Walsh spotted it yesterday, leaving Ned Dimes Marina.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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How did you spend Father’s Day?

This guy showed up without an invitation on Porter Lane, off Bayberry Lane:

(Photo/Bruce Porter)

And yes — that is a screen door separating the guest from the rest of the house.

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Speaking of animals: Longtime “06880” reader Anne Guglielmoni recently published a children’s picture book. The Curious Life of Vader: How it Began features a true story.

And it happened at the Fairfield Center train station.

That’s where, a while ago, Anne stumbled across a tiny, helpless black kitten. She rescued him, brought him home, and namied him Vader.

She wrote and illustrated his journey as a simple story for her 2 young nieces. Seeing the excitement on their faces every single time they turned the pages and saw the cat sparked her to share the message of compassion, kindness and courage with other children.

Click here to read more about — and order — “The Curious Life of Vader.”

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Karl Mergenthaler sends along today’s “Westport … Naturally” images — and the back story:

“My wife and I have been startled a few times this summer by an unexpected guest: a bobcat.

“It looks like a 20-pound tabby cat skulking across our backyard. Our neighbor Liz figured out what it’s doing: Her shed has become the nursery room for 3 kittens.

Female bobcat …

“Although I’ve spent most of my life in and around Westport, I’ve never personally seen a bobcat.  Deer (of course), foxes, coyotes, hawks … but this is my first bobcat sighting.

“Apparently, the local bobcat population has exploded. There are now an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 bobcats in Connecticut.

“Are they dangerous? It doesn’t seem so.

“My cursory Internet research suggests that bobcats rarely attack people. I’m pretty sure I’d rather not find out what it would do if it felt threatened, though.

“Bobcats don’t celebrate Father’s Day, apparently. Bobcat fathers do not stay with their babies. Bobcat mothers are single parents and raise their kittens entirely on their own. Male bobcats are solitary animals, and hit the road immediately after mating.”

… and kittens, hanging around the shed. (Photos/Liz Archibald)

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And finally … oops! We missed our Father’s Day song yesterday.

Here it is, a day late:

(Unsure how to celebrate Father’s Day? The first day of summer? Or anything else? Consider a donation to “06880” — your hyper-local blog. Just click here. And thank you!)

 

 

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Entertainment, Environment, Restaurants

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Westport Library: On The Mark

Posted on June 20, 2026 | Leave a comment

“06880” culture correspondent Robin Moyer Chung writes:

On Tuesday night, the Westport Library received a Mark Award. They’re one of only 3 Fairfield County arts institutions honored this year for excellence.

To be precise, the Mark was for VersoFest.

Douglas Laustsen, executive director of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County — the group that awards the Marks — says, “I’m just in awe of what they’ve built here: showcasing international talent alongside local artists who are doing excellent work day in and day out throughout Fairfield County.”

Westport Library director Bill Harmer, accepting the Mark Award.

Why is this significant?

Because a program like VersoFest is unprecedented in US libraries.

Library executive director Bill Harmer says the Mark Award “recognizes not only a festival, but a vision for the future of public libraries.”

VersoFest, created and hosted by the Library, is a multi-day festival of renowned musicians, writers, filmmakers, technologists, students, local creators and more. It includes rock concerts, book readings, musical performances, lectures, and just about anything involving the arts.

This year’s VersoFest included Wyclef Jean — and a packed Trefz Forum. (Photo/Kerry Long)

The festival is 4 years old, but the idea dates back  more than a quarter century. In the early 2000s Harmer created a Rock & Roll Library Tour, putting indie rock band The High Strung on the road performing in public libraries across the country.

Over several years, The High Strung played more than 250 concerts in libraries in 48 states (and Cuba).

Through the tour’s success, Harmer realized that libraries could go far beyond books, DVDs and quiet spaces. They could be active participants in creating and shaping cultural life.

He says, “Years later, after arriving in Westport and helping lead the Library’s transformation project, we suddenly had the infrastructure to explore that question.”

And they did, creating the Trefz Forum, Verso Studios and Verso Records.

They now had a world-class performance venue, professional production studios, and a community willing to embrace experimentation.

Throw in internationally recognized creative talent, business leaders and exceptional local artists and you’ve got VersoFest.

Laustsen sums it up: “They are bringing the best of the best in culture to Westport, and placing it alongside the best of the best.”

(“06880” covers the arts in all their forms, all over Westport. If you enjoy coverage like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Music, Art, Golf …

Posted on June 20, 2026 | 2 comments

Missed the recent Staples Pops Concert at Levitt Pavilion?

Were you there, and want to hear — and see — every performance again?

The Music Department has just posted a full video of the superb show.

The choral, orchestral and jazz groups — and several small ensembles — are all there. They sound (and look) great.

Click here for the entire evening. And if you only want a few numbers, there’s a link for each.

But we recommend the whole thing.

A night to remember. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of the Levitt Pavilion: Chris Pierce returned last night with his full band. It was a moving night of folk, blues and Americana songs and stories, celebrating Juneteenth.

The set included songs from his new album, Songs for the Heavy Hearted,” to be released this August. This fall he’ll also perform at FarmAid.

There are 2 shows this weekend: Lucius with Wild & Company tonight (Saturday, 6:30 p.m.), and Dark Star Orchestra tomorrow (Sunday, 5 p.m.).

Click here for tickets, and details on all shows.

Chris Pierce, at the Levitt. (Photo/Sean Bernand)

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Also last night: Another large crowd enjoyed great weather at the Yankee Doodle Fair.

The 100-plus-years annual event — a major fundraiser for the Westport Woman’s Club — continues at their Imperial Road headquarters today (Saturday, 1 to 10 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.).

A Sensory Hour tomorrow (Sunday, noon to 1 p.m.) is reserved for people in the neurodiverse and special education communities. It’s an opportunity for reduced crowds, lower noise levels and a more comfortable atmosphere, with their families, caregivers and support networks.

 

Fun at the fair! (Photo/Johanna Shields)

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An enthusiastic crowd recently celebrated the opening of “Between Universes,” at the University of Bridgeport’s Peter Schelfhaudt Gallery.

Westport artist Eric Chiang collaborated on the show. The theme is “connecting and integrating the universes we have — one in the outside that we all live in, and the other in the inside that we sometimes sense we have and is particularly our very own.”

A special string quintet piece from the Greater Bridgeport Symphony anchored the opening reception. The exhibit runs through August 31.

Part of Eric Chiang’s exhibit.

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Indigo Wellness Group — women-led, and multidisciplinary — has moved to an expanded location, at 212 Post Road West.

Services includes acupuncture, massage therapy, functional medicine, holistic skincare, pelvic floor physical therapy, nutrition counseling and other wellness services.

The new Indigo Wellness space.

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The 3rd annual Westport Country Playhouse Golf Tournament teed up at Birchwood Country Club this week.

The winning team included (photo below, from left) Westporters Justin Brunwasser and Jonathan Levy, Glenn Levinson of Fairfield and Stamford’s Hudson Fetzer.

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Back in the 1980s, Mort Sherman was an assistant superintendent of Westport Schools.

He became a superintendent in other districts, including Alexandria, Virginia.

Now retired, he and his daughter Sara have written a book.

But it’s not about education.

Called “Resonant Minds: The Transformative Power of Music, One Note at a Time,” Amazon says it “invites readers to reimagine music as a dynamic, interactive force that reshapes how we live, learn, and connect. By blending personal stories-recalling childhood car rides where ‘Ode to Joy’ was joyfully reinvented with animal noises and made-up words-with cutting-edge research and practical insights, the father/daughter writing team … help us understand how to use music intentionally.”

TAP Strength founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Westporter Dr. Bena Kallick, founder of the Institute for Habits of Mind, recently used Sherman’s book as a springboard for a Psychology Today article called “Body Awareness: Listening for the Resonance.” Click here to read.

Sara Sherman and Dr. Morton Sherman

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is a great metaphor for … well, probably many things.

Feel free to interpret this scene at the Library Riverwalk however you wish.

And admire its beauty, too.

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … Eric Chiang’s spectacular art exhibit (story above) reminds us of one of the galaxy’s greatest songs ever:

(Forget the pools of sorrow. We’ll feel waves of joy if you click here to support “06880.” Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Winslow Park Fountain, Library Culture Award, Kerri Kenney Podcast …

Posted on June 18, 2026 | 3 comments

Dogs love Winslow Park.

Their owners may not have loved the somewhat grotty water fountain — serving canines and humans — that stood for years near the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot.

It’s gone. And everyone is lapping up its replacement.

Yesterday, a new one was installed.

There are 2 bowls for people, one for dogs, and a spigot to fill water bottles. They all rest on a concrete pad — so goodbye to muddy paws.

The new fountain is a welcome gift from Sustainable Westport. A plaque says it honors Sherry Jagerson — “a champion for the environment.”

Teaching an old dog new tricks. (Hat tip and photo/Mark Mathias)

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Congratulations to the Westport Library!

On Tuesday, the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County presented director Bill Harmer with the Mark Award. It’s given annually to groups and individuals who create and support the arts.

The Library was honored for VersoFest. For 5 years, the event has entertained the state with 4 days of immersive music, multimedia, panels, workshops and more. (Hat tip: Matthew Mandell)

Bill Harmer, accepting the Mark Award from the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County. With him on the screen is David J of Bauhaus, a keynote speaker and performer at this spring’s VersoFest.

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Speaking of the Library: The Board of Finance holds office hours there today (10 a.m.).

Residents can stop in, and ask a member town finance-related questions.

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Kerri Kenney-Silver — the actress (now appearing in Netflix’s “Four Seasons”), comedian, writer, singer, musician, and 1988 Staples High School graduate — was a recent guest on Seth Meyers and his brother’s “Family Trips” podcast.

Kerri talked about life — including working at the Red Barn and another restaurant. Click here to hear the entire episode. (Hat tip: Jenaé Weinbrenner)

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Speaking of performing: Westport Country Playhouse Joanne Woodward Internships are among the most prestigious in the theater world.

Stephen Sondheim was an apprentice at the historic stage (long before the program was named for the longtime Playhouse friend, and former artistic director). Joining him that year: future director Frank Perry, and Richard Rodgers’ daughter Mary.

This year, 4 theater career aspirants will enhance their skills and gain experience working with Playhouse senior staff this month and next. They were selected from 79 applicants.

The 2026 group includes Nick Bates, production intern, arts administration major at Wagner College; Rebecca Brown, marketing intern, advertising and public relations major at Marist University; Leah Fosbrook, development intern, theatre administration major at Ithaca College; and Julia Orr, artistic/education intern, theatre directing and public advocacy double major at Belmont University.

In addition to work in their departments, interns attend seminars with guest speakers. They receive a stipend and nearby housing.

From left: Rebecca Brown, Leah Fosbrook, Julia Orr, Nick Bates. (Photo/Kelsey McFarland)

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Comedy Night returns to VFW Post 399 tomorrow (Friday; doors open at 6 p.m.; show at 8).

The lineup of 4 comedians includes David Beckles, Jr., Autumn Harvest, Dan Altano, and regular residency comic Joe Pontillo. Matt Zako hosts.

Tickets are $20 (including 1 drink); click here to purchase.

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Today is the last day of school.

Once the kids are gone, construction on the new Long Lots Elementary School can move ahead full throttle.

But — at the northernmost edge of the property — work has already begun.

Here’s what the old lower soccer fields looked like on Monday:

(Photo/Michael Chait)

This is the new site for the school’s geothermal system.

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The Westport Rotary Club got a “healthy” bit of info at Tuesday’s meeting.

Dawn Myles, vice president for community health of Northwell Health described her organization: the largest not-for-profit health system in the Northeast. With 28 hospitals, more than 1,000 outpatient facilities, 22,000 nurses and over 20,000 physicians, Northwell cares for more than 3 million people annually in the New York area.

Dawn Myles at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between June 10 and 16.

A 37-year-old Danbury man was charged with harassment and threatening, following a complaint by the owner of a cleaning service. After firing an employee for stealing from a client’s home, the victim received calls and texts from someone presumed to be the former employee’s husband. Among other statements, he threatened to kill the victim’s daughter if his demands were not met. He was released on a $51,000 bond.

A 37-year-old Bridgeport woman was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs, operating a motor vehicle under suspension, and defective stop lamp, after an officer observed a vehicle swerving on the Post Road. She was released on a $500 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • School zone violation: 9 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
  • Distracted driving: 4
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 4
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 2
  • School zone violation, 2nd offense: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Texting while driving: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehcile: 1
  • Unreadable license plates: 1

Ten drivers were charged last week with school zone violations.

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In other Westport Police news, a promotion ceremony will be held today (Thursday, 10 a.m., Police headquarters) for 3 officers.

Detective Scott Alberti has been with the Westport force since 2018. A Sacred Heart University business management graduate, he spent many years working in the private sector, where he also became an emergency medical technician. He has been recognized in Westport for superior performance, particularly in the area of mental health emergencies.

Sergeant Rachel Hall joined the Westport Police Department in 2016, from Ridgefield. She is a University of Connecticut graduate, with a degree in allied health science (pre-medicine). She has served Westport in the motorcycle and drone units, the Marine Division, school security, and as a dive rescuer.

Sergeant Casey Mezerewski has many relatives who served on the Westport force, include fallen officer William Frawley, his great-grandfather. Sgt. Mezerewski has been with the Westport Police since 2008. He is a Tae Kwon Do back belt, and has worked with the dive team, Marine Division and Honor Guard. He received a Life Saving Award in 2014.

From left: Det. Scott Aliberti, Sgt. Rachel Hall, Sgt. Casey Mezerewski

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Ospreys are known for making nests atop tall structures: trees, telephone poles and the like.

This one must be the highest in Westport — perhaps Fairfield County.

It’s on the top of the 200-foot transmission tower at the Saugatuck River railroad bridge.

It’s quite a spot. And quite a good image, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” series.

(Photo/Ray Broady)

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And finally … the item that mentioned Stephen Sondheim’s long-ago internship at the Westport Country Playhouse (above) got us thinking about his music.

We also thought about the Playhouse — and remembered that when Judy Collins gave a memorable performance there last year, she sang this signature song:

(Send in the clowns. And send in the checks. Or online donations. “06880” relies on readers to support our work. If you appreciate us — or want to honor Sondheim or anyone else — click here. Thanks!)

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Staples Players Rewind: “Rent”

Posted on June 16, 2026 | Leave a comment

In 2008, David Roth and Kerry Long staged a Staples Players production of “Les Misérables.”

It’s ambitious for any high school troupe. It was especially challenging as a summer show, with its very tight time frame.

The next summer, the Players’ directors chose another great, but complex and super-difficult, musical: “Rent.”

As he’s done with every Players mainstage and summer show since 2000, former media teacher Jim Honeycutt took on the nearly equally tough task of distilling it into a highlight reel.

Click here or below to relive “Rent.”

As with so many Players shows, a number of actors went on to careers in entertainment. They include:

Chris McNiff (Mark Cohen) ) is an actor, singer, dancer and choreographer based in New York City. He has appeared in “White Christmas,” “Singin’ in the Rain” and “Hair.”

Dan Shure (Mark Cohen) plays bass, in Charley Bliss, a successful New York band, with Eva Hendricks (Maureen Johnson). Their current release is “Back There Now.”

Clay Singer (Roger Davis) has extensive theater credits including “Masquerade” (New York), “Fiddler On the Roof” (St. Louis), “Perchik” (Westport), “The Band’s Visit” (North American tour), “Into the Woods” (Pittsfield, Massachusetts), “Next to Normal” (Vero Beach, Florida), “Man of La Mancha” (Westport), “Romeo and Juliet” and “Ragtime” and “The Full Monty” (both Pittsburgh).

Steve Autore (Roger Davis) is a humorist, writer, actor and singer, and produces unique, original original media content. After Elon University he founded an independent dark comedy production group, Nice Hog! Productions. They’re currently in development for 2 animated series, CREEPS and Drop Dead.

David Ressler (Tom Collins) is an actor and singer. He is currently performing in a Bay Area Opera Collaborative production of “Pirates of Penzance.”

Johnny Shea (Angel Dumont Schunard) is a New York based actor. Credits include “Spring Awaking,” “Deathless” and “Peter Pan,” in theaters ranging from Goodspeed and the Shakepeare in Chicago to the Portland Stage Company.

Charlie Greenwald (Benjamin Coffin III) is an actor, voiceover artist, comedian, copywriter and children’s book author. He has appeared in the film “The Trial of the Chicago 7” and the TV special “Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert.”

Audrey Twitchell (Mimi Marques) has appeared in numerous commercials, print ads and on television. In 2006, she originated the role of Lee Bouvier in the Broadway musical “Grey Gardens.”

Michelle Pauker (Mimi Marques) is a singer and actor. She has appeared in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Idaho Shakespeare Festival), “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (Great Lakes Theatre Company), and “Into The Woods (Forestburgh Playhouse).

(If you like these nutshells — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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