Category Archives: Library

Roundup: Music Honors, Library Book Sale, Twiddle …

Posted on May 5, 2023 | Comments Off on Roundup: Music Honors, Library Book Sale, Twiddle …

It’s getting to be routine. But it never gets old.

For the 11th year in a row, the Westport Public Schools have been named a “Best Community for Music Education,” by the NAMM Foundation.

The honor goes to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students.

The application process includes questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. The Music Department cites partnerships with organizations like the Westport Library, Levitt Pavilion, PTA Cultural Arts, WestPAC and Westport Arts Advisory Committee.

Encore!

Westport music instructors take bows, at the Levitt Pavilion Pops Concert.

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The Westport Library’s spring book sale starts today (Friday).

Thousands of gently used books for children and adults are available in over 50 categories, plus vintage children’s and antiquarian books, music CDs, and movie and television DVDs.

Of special interest: Books donated from the homes of former US cabinet member Joseph Califano; NBC Sports producer Ricky Diamond, and philanthropist and educator Elisabeth Luce Moore, sister of Henry Luce (Time-Life founder). Many of the books in the Califano collection have been signed political, journalist, literatary and entertainment figures.

Plus a collection of works by or about James Joyce, and an extensive collection of history books, especially US and world politics, and World War II.

The “Fiction for $1” room is back by popular demand, filled with hardcover fiction, mystery, science fiction, fantasy and young adult fiction, plus paperbacks, just $1 each.

Vinyl records, graphic novels and manga will be available at the Westport Book Shop, across Jesup Green from the Library.

  • Friday, May 5: Noon to 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 6: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Sunday, May 7: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; almost everything half-price.
  • Monday, May 8: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.: fill a logo bags for $8 (or fill your own equivalent-sized bag for $5), or purchase individual items for half price.

Westport LIbrary Book Sale

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Years ago, as a student at Providence College, Alison Reilly became interested in American Sign Language.

This year she began exploring how to add it to the Staples High School curriculum. She cites the benefits of learning any language, including improved memory, attention and problem-solving skills, and increased cultural awareness and sensitivity.

Studies have shown that learning ASL can have cognitive and academic benefits for students. Learning a second language has been shown to improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, and ASL is no exception. In addition, learning ASL can help students become more culturally aware and sensitive, and demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Schools like Brown, Columbia, Harvard, MIT, NYU, Berkeley, Michigan, Penn and Yale all accept ASL as fulfilling students’ world language requirement for admission.

Fairfield, Wilton and Greenwich already include ASL in their course offerings, Reilly says.

Assistant superintendent of schools of teaching and learning Anthony Buono says, “We currently offer ASL online as an elective. We have had conversations about offering it as a World Language option, but nothing formal has transpired.

“One significant challenge is finding certified teachers. Darien is currently searching for a teacher and has been unable to find one.”

Reilly says she’ll keep “06880” posted on the progress of her initiative.

Artist/photographer Miggs Burroughs created “Signs of Compassion,” by asking 30 Westporters to sign a different word, in Emily Dickinson’s poem of the same name.

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In his work with “CBS Sunday Morning,” PBS’ “Nova,” the Missing Manuals tech guides and more, David Pogue calls himself a “professional explainer.”

At Monday’s Y’s Women meeting (May 8, 11:15 a.m., Green’s Farms Church), he’ll explain something all of us have heard about, but few understand: artificial intelligence.

It’s useful — and terrifying. An app can write anything you ask it to: Letters, song lyrics, research papers, recipes, therapy sessions, poems, essays, software code.

Other apps create music, perfectly mimic anybody’s voice, and generate complete video scenes from typed descriptions.

His talk is so important, the Y’s Women are inviting everyone to come. So be “wise”: Go hear David Pogue.

And get even wiser.

David Pogue, professional explainer.

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The Westport and Fairfield Senior Centers co-hosted a “Meet the Authors  yesterday, in Westport Nearly 2 dozen local authors chatted informally about their works (and sold copies).

Susan Garment buys an autographed copy of “I Pried Open Wall Street In 1962: Overcoming Barriers, Hurdles and Obstacles – A Memoir” from author Winston Allen. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Twiddle — the Vermont-based ensemble that played to sold-out Levitt Pavilion crowds last summer — returns for a 2-day, 4-set festival July 21-22. (Click here for a great video of that weekend.)

It’s extra special, because soon after, they’ll take an indefinite hiatus from touring.

The Twiddle Festival also includes Lespecial, Kung Fu, Oh He Dead, and one more band to be announced soon. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Twiddle

The Levitt Pavilion recently announced a new slate of free shows, too.

The Suffers — an 8-piece Gulf Coast Soul/rock/country/Latin/Southern hip hop/Stax and Muscle Shoals band from Houston — take the stage July 14.

Calexico’s “Feast of Wire 20th Anniversary Tour” is August 17.

Click here for free tickets, and more information.

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Club 203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — heads to Longshore for their next event.

The picnic at Evan Harding Point includes card games, MoCA art, the Super Duper Weenie food truck, a giveaway, and a special surprise.

The date is May 25 (6 to 7:30 p.m.). Click here to RSVP, and for more information.

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Do you have questions about aging, like who will protect your financial assets, how to navigate healthcare, and whether you can age in place?

The Residence at Westport hosts a panel on “Navigating Senior Care Options” (May 16, 2 p.m., 1141 Post Road East).

Representatives from Cohen & Wolf, Constellation Health Services, Growing Options, Hartford Healthcare Geriatric Medicine, Moneco Advisors, National Heath Care Associates, Privatus Care Solutions, Stardust Move Managers, The Carolton and William Raveis Real Estate will join The Residence experts.

RSVP: lscopelliti@residencewestport.com; 203-349-2002.

The Residence at Westport.

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Westport artists Dale Najarian and Tomira Wilcox are featured in the “Shadows Revealed” exhibit at Sono1420 craft distillers in South Norwalk.

Proceeds from a portion of sales, and an artwork raffle at the opening reception May 11 (6 to 8 p.m.) benefit The Rowan Center sexual assault resource agency.

Artwork by Dale Najarian.

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Laurel Canyon comes to Westport on May 13.

Voices Café’s next concert (8 p.m., the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport) features with The Bar Car Band. Their “Songs & Stories of Laurel Canyon” — with the music of Carole King, Carly Simon, Linda Ronstadt, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, Neil Young, Tom Waits, Buffalo Springfield, the Byrds and more — is a benefit for the Green Village Initiative.

The Bar Car Band includes Nina Hammerling on vocals, Russell Smith on guitar and vocals, plus Joe Izzo (drums), Scott Spray (bass), Tim DeHuff (guitar), Tim Stone (keyboards), David Allen Rivera (percussion), Amy Crenshaw (vocals) and narrator Hadley Boyd.

There’s café-style seating (at tables) or individual seating, plus room for dancing. Bring your own beverages and snacks; snacks are available for purchase too. Tickets are $25 each. Click here for tickets and more information.

The Bar Car Band

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LaBeaute Artistry Brow & Nails has just opened, in the rear of the 234 Post Road East building that is anchored by Calico (just east of Imperial Avenue).

Owners Penny Yi and her sister, and their team, specialize in designs and nail extensions. They offer mani and pedi, microblading, brows lamination, tinting, waxing and other services.

Right now, there is 20% off for promgoers and new clients. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For more information, call 203-349-5655.

Nails by LaBeaute.

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The first rainbow of the year rose yesterday evening.

Mary Beth Stirling spotted it over Compo Beach. She notes that it’s just in time for today’s Full Flower Moon.

And Cinco de Mayo.

(Photo/Mary Beth Stirling)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is more proof — not that any is needed — that spring has arrived. Sunil Hirani captured this image on Riverside Avenue.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … in honor of Voices Café’s Laurel Canyon show (story above):

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Roundup: Budget, Westport10, Gravity …

Posted on May 2, 2023 | 2 comments

Last night, Westport did easily something the US Congress struggles with.

It passed a budget.

The Representative Town Meeting approved the town side of spending for 2023-24: $81.3 million.

The Board of Education Budget — approximately $152 million — will be debated tonight (7:30 p.m., Town Hall). If approval does not come tonight, a second meeting could be held tomorrow, at the same time and place.

The town budget passed unanimously. It included the Transit District’s full budget of $291,231, which was approved 33-1 after having been lowered by the Board of Finance to eliminate Wheels2U service. Louis Mall voted nay, while Peter Gold — who also serves as the Transit Director director — abstained.

Gold said he and his colleagues received over 325 letters in support of restoration. He said, “Their emails made it clear just how much the Wheels2U service means to all segments of the Westport population, and to those who commute to work in Westport.”

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The other day, News12 reported on Westport10 — the social and networking group of Black men and their families, whose mission is to make Westport a more diverse and welcoming town.

Yesterday, they aired a second segment. This one focuses on founder Jay Norris, and several other members. It’s a great look at another important slice of Westport life. Click here to see.

Westport10, on the News12 website.

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Speaking of Jay Norris:

He’s helping organize tonight’s Common Ground session at the Westport Library (Tuesday, 7 p.m.).

The event includes a conversation with former Congressman Roy Blunt — a Missouri Republican known for his bipartisan work — and Steve Parrish, whose consulting firm specializes in corporate social responsibility and public affairs.

The aim of the initiative is to host positive, productive conversations on how we work together as a civil society, encouraging respectful, constructive dialogue while tackling challenging, controversial issues.

The Library leads the effort, with community leaders representing a wide array of constituents and views. Click here for more information.

Senator Roy Blunt

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As Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito prepare to sell their beloved Beechwood estate, they’re planning one last event.

They’re partnering with realtor Cyd Hamer to give prospective buyers a very cool look inside. A “Spring Soirée” this Sunday (May 7, 3 to 6 p.m.) includes 3 mini-concerts by Frederic, the internationally renowned pianist.

Each will be followed by a house tour of secret spaces and buildings, with Champagne and sweet bites.

Space is limited; all guests must click here to register.

Beechwood House, with its magnificent copper beech tree.

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“Einstein’s Ears: The New Astronomy of Gravitational Waves” is the topic of the next Westport Astronomical Society webinar.

Scott Hughes, associate professor of physicals at the Massachusetts Institute of Technbology, talks about the quest for gravitational waves, and all kinds of related stuff.

It’s May 16 (8 p.m.). Click here for the Zoom link; click here to watch on YouTube.

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Save the date: MoCA Westport’s annual arts celebration/fundraiser “The Surrealist Soirée: A Bash Beyond Reality” is set for September 30.

Tickets start at $325 per person. Click here for more information.

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This bobcat sits serenely for his “Westport … Naturally” close-up.

(Photo/Sean Hogan)

But there was plenty of action nearby. Photographer Sean Hogan spotted this guy on Bay Street — right near the heart of downtown.

Or course, he has every right to be there. His crew was here long before ours.

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming Westport Astronomical Society lecture:

 (“06880” covers the arts, the sciences, the environment, and anything else with any Westport connection. Please click here to contribute — and thank you!)

 

 

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Pic Of The Day #2205

Posted on May 1, 2023 | 4 comments

Abandoned chess game, outside the Library (Photo/Heli Stagg)

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Roundup: Suzanne Sherman Propp, Post-High School Plans, Teens Work …

Posted on April 29, 2023 | 3 comments

Suzanne Sherman Propp came to her current gig — a very popular Greens Farms Elementary School music teacher — after a long career as a performer. (She learned her craft growing up in Westport, and as a Staples High School student.)

Suzanne Sheridan is a longtime resident, and well-known musician too. She recently started the “First Folk Sunday” series at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.

People sometimes confuse the 2 Suzannes.

A week from tomorrow — May 7, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. — Suzanne Sherman Propp headlines Suzanne Sheridan’s First Folk Sunday.

She’ll be joined by Bob Cooper. Her husband, Peter Propp, will bring his mandolin for a few tunes.

There’s brunch, and a cash bar (including mimosas and make-your-own Bloody Marys). The cover is $10; click here for tickets.

Suzanne Sherman Propp and Peter Propp.

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Staples High School’s counseling department does a great job helping seniors get into college.

But they’re just as focused on supporting students considering paths other than traditional 4-year degrees.

“Finding Your Path: Exploring Post-High School Options” (May 9, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library) features representatives from the military, community college, vocational school, and gap and postgraduate programs.

Local graduates who pursued those paths will be there too, to talk about their experiences and answer quesitons.

Students of all ages, and their families, are invited.

2011 Staples graduate Asia Bravo joined the military — and was accepted into its new Space Force program. She is shown here with B. Chance Saltzman, director of space operations.

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Middle and high school students looking to make money through outdoor yard work this spring and summer can join Westport’s Department of Human Services “We Do Walkways” program.

It’s a great way to connect teenagers with senior citizens. The suggested minimum is $15 an hour; chores are limited to outside.

Students must complete an enrollment form and receive parental permission to participate. Contact Westport’s Department of Human Services at 203-341-1050 or email humansrv@westportct.gov with questions.

Seniors can join the “We Do Walkway” list by calling Human Services at 203-341-1050 or emailing humansrv@westportct.gov.

Teenagers: lend a hand!

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Author, author!

This Thursday (May 4, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.), the Westport Senior Center hosts a “Meet the Authors” event.

More than a dozen local authors will discuss their books, in an informal questions. They’ll sell and sign them too. Light refreshments will be served.

Scheduled to appear: Winston Allen, Jill Amadio, Ronald Blumenfeld, Prill Boyle, Elaine Breakstone, Don Harrison, Scott Kuhner, Deborah Levinson, Diane Lowman, Allia Zobel Nolan, Penny Pearlman, Mark Perlman, Deborah Quinn, Lynn Ellen Russo, Patricia Sabena, Sue Stewart, Elizabeth Thomas Jean Marie Wiesen.

Prill Boyle is among the many excellent authors at the Senior Center. (Photo/Suzanne Sheridan)

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Harbor Watch needs a new boat.

The Earthplace-based organization — which for decades has monitored and restored local waterways — must get a new vessel, for research and education programs. It is imperative to maintain their biological and chemical data.

Tickets are on sale for their “Cocktails & Clams” fundraiser (June 10, 5 to 7 p.m.). The Copps Island Oysters location in Norwalk offers an unlimited and very fresh raw bar, hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, live jazz, silent auction — and spectacular views of Long Island Sound.

Tickets are $200 each; click here. Sponsorships are available too; click here. To donate for the new boat, click here.

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Reminder: The launch party for “Pick of the Pics” — the “06880” book highlighting over 100 of our blog’s best Pics of the Day — is tomorrow (sunday, April 30, 2 to 4 p.m., Savvy + Grace, 146 Main Street).

Books will be available for purchase at a special price of $20 (regular Amazon price: $24.95).

I’ll sign copies; so will Lyah Muktavaram, my “06880” intern who did 99% of the work on it.

Photographers featured in the book can pick up a free book at the launch party too.

Can’t make it? Click here to order!

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Speaking of books:

After a great run in Saugatuck, Fairfield County Story Lab is moving.

On Monday, the popular workplace for writers leaves its 21 Charles Street top-floor space for 95 Mill Plain Road, in the Fairfield Arts District.

They have to give up their prime Saugatuck spot for an equally great site a few miles east. They’ll still be near plenty of restaurants, right near a train station and I-95.

Fairfield County Story Lab offers a free work day for writers and creatives (and a free week for former members). Call 203-374-8343 for more details.

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Yesterday’s weather was forgettable.

But one couple will always remember it.

They got married — in the wind and intermittent rain — by the Compo Beach cannons.

Congratulations to the new bridge and groom — whoever you are!

(Photo/Gara Morse)

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The Westport Weston Family YMCA’s 100th anniversary celebration continues, with a yoga fundraiser May 11 (10 to 11 a.m.).

100 participants in a “Breath, Body & Balance” class at the Mahackeno Outdoor Center will be led by Greg Barringer.

There’s a $100 registration fee/donation per person. Funds go to the Y’s Financial Assistance Program, serving under-resourced families and those in need.

Participants get a high-quality 100-year anniversary yoga mat, and a flower from Blossom +Stem. Click here to register.

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Members of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston, and spouses, toured Stamford’s 400,000-square foot world headquarters of NBC Sports this week.

It was an eye-opening, behind-the-scenes look at all that goes into a telecast that most of us take for granted.

Tour guide Terri Leopold shows off the NBC Sports facility. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Sorelle Gallery’s new exhibition, “Connected Layers,” features abstract artists Julia Contacessi and Teodora Guererra.

It opens Friday (May 5, 19 Church Lane), with a reception set for Saturday (May 6, 3 to 6 p.m.). Click here for more information.

Julia Contacessi

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Westporters know Ed Gerber for his preservation work around town.

He’s also a trustee of Historic New England. In that role, he’s sponsoring a “Connecticut Preservation at Work” speaker series.

The free event kicks off June 2 (2 p.m., Metro Art Studios, 345 Railroad Avenue, Bridgeport) with speeches by the co-owners and developers of historic Crown Corset Factory, Bridgeport’s director of business development and more. For more information, click here.

Ed Gerber

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It will rain all day today. And tomorrow.

So here’s a “Westport … Naturally” photo — taken a couple of days ago — to remind us all that the weather here has been pretty good this spring.

And remember: April showers bring May flowers.

The calendar guarantees that April showers end tomorrow night.

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … April 29 is Eeyore’s birthday. He’s 40 today — and every day.

What a life!

(Our “06880” Roundup tells you what’s going on in Westport — today, and every day. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Common Ground, Affordable Housing, Lyman Aid …

Posted on April 28, 2023 | 11 comments

Common Ground — the Westport Library’s project to bring civility back to civic discourse — launches this Tuesday (May 2, 7 p.m.).

The event includes a conversation with former Congressman Roy Blunt — a Missouri Republican known for his bipartisan work — and attorney Steve Parrish, whose consulting firm specializes in corporate social responsibility and public affairs.

The aim of the initiative is to host positive, productive conversations on how we work together as a civil society, encouraging respectful, constructive dialogue while tackling challenging, controversial issues.

The Library leads the effort, with community leaders representing a wide array of constituents and views. Click here for more information.

Senator Roy Blunt

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A follow-up on the Representative Town Meeting’s recent “Community Conversation on Affordable Housing” promises to be as important and illuminating as the first.

“Our Town’s Affordable Housing Needs and Solutions: What Westporters Should Know and How They Can Help” will be held — virtually — on May 17 (7:30 p.m.).

RTM moderator Jeff Wieser will lead a panel of men and women who know the topic intimately: State Senator Ceci Maher, State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, Planning & Zoning Commission chair Danielle Dobin, RTM Planning & Zoning Committee chair Matthew Mandell, and Westport Housing Authority director Carol Martin.

As with the first session — which drew 200 people — there will be plenty of time for public questions.

Click here to join the Zoom meeting.

New construction at the Wilton Road/Kings Highway North intersection — opposed by Westport’s Planning & Zoning Commission, but allowed by a judge based on Connecticut’s 8-30g affordable housing regulation — is on many residents’ minds.

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The final Westport-sponsored project in Lyman, Ukraine has been successfully completed.

Thanks to $252,000 raised — in just 3 weeks — over the holidays, Westport has helped our sister city in many ways. They include:

  • Repairing 6 apartment buildings, housing 132 people
  • Purchasing and delivering 2 patrol cars, and communications and other equipment, for the police department after their station was destroyed
  • Purchasing and delivering 2 trash trucks, to haul away debris and garbage that piled up during 5 months of Russian occupancy
  • Purchasing bulletproof vests and other protective gear for utility works, who restored electricity near the front lines
  • Delivering food kids to hundreds of family, including holiday meals for 1,000
  • Delivering Christmas presents for nearly 500 children
  • Supplying 2,940 families with seeds for their farms and gardens.

Non-monetary support included 200 cards and artwork, created by Bedford Middle School 7th graders.

There’s still time for other Westport students — and their families — to add to the packages, which will be delivered next month.

Letters, drawings and posters of encouragement can be dropped off on the front porch of 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore’s house: 2A Baker Avenue (between Compo Road South and Imperial Avenue). Blue and yellow balloons (Ukrainian colors) are on the mailbox.

The deadline is May 5. Questions: Email amoore@westportct.gov.

More monetary help is needed. A new drive will begin soon. In the meantime, watch “06880” for news of a giant “thank-you” party for Westport. Save the date now: Sunday, July 9.

PS: To donate now, click here (and select “Westport” from the “Where it is needed most” dropdown menu.

Lyman apartments, under repair.

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The other day Wynston Browne — the non-speaking autistic Staples High School student who has made spectacular progress since learning to communicate less than 2 years ago — wowed the crowd of 200 people at the Circle of Friends celebration.

The event — celebrating teenagers who model inclusion and service to the community, by providing social experiences for children and teens with special needs — featured Wynston and his communication partner Elisa Feinman.

He earned 2 standing ovations, as he described his journey. Once thought to be intellectually disabled, he now shares deep insights about himself and the world, with many people who are eager to listen.

Also honored: Westporter Stephen Schwartz. Jenn Falik served as MC; 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, Circle of Friends founder and director Freida Hecht, and Caroline Caggiano and James Dobin Smith, co-presidents of Staples’ Circle of Friends Club, offered remarks.

Wynston Browne (center) with his brothers BK (Staples High Class of 2016 graduate) and Harrison, a Staples junior, at the Circle of Friends celebration.

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Pierrepont – the small, non-traditional and very low-profile private school on Sylvan Road North at Post Road West — invites everyone to a big, non-traditional but very intriguing Arts Festival.

The event begins Thursday, May 4 (3 to 5:p.m.) with lectures on raga and contemporary opera, plus poetry. There’s a 5:30 p.m. reception, then at 7 p.m. music from Voices of Hartford and a raga ensemble.

Friday, May 5 includes a 4:30 Urban Bush Woman Workshop, 5 p.m. reception and 7:15 p.m. dance performance.

The 3-day festival concludes on Saturday, May 6 with 8:30 a.m. coffee, and 10 a.m. “Conversations in Art.”

Click here for many more details on each event.

Pierrepont School, on Sylvan Road North. The entrance faces Post Road West.

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“The Gospel of Soul” comes to Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church tomorrow.

The Empire Voices — regular performers at the Metropolitan Opera, on Broadway, and back-up for artists like Josh Groban, Michael Bublé, Pete Townshend and David Bowie — will take the Branson Hall “stage” at 5 p.m.

The church’s own Choristers will be make a guest appearance. A reception follows.

Organizers says, “This concert will fill your soul and have you on your feet.” Click here for tickets, and more information.

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As outdoor dining returns to Church Lane, the Westport Downtown Association is finalizing its summer concert series. Musicians will provide over 35 evenings of entertainment, al fresco.

A GoFundMe collection will help offset the cost of the singers and bands. Click here to help.

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The Levy Family of Westport will lead the 18th Annual STAR Walk & Roll fundraiser on Sunday, May 7 at Sherwood Island State Park.

The Levys have supported STAR — the 70-year-old not-for-profit that serves over 700 people with disabilities, from birth to their senior years, and their families –since their daughter Ariel began attending its day program.

Over the past several years, the Levy Family’s “Team Ariel” has raised over $100,000 for STAR.

The Walk begins at 10 a.m. May 7 with a 1k route suitable for any ability (walkers, strollers, wheelchairs and baby joggers are welcome). There’s a continental breakfast, and family activities including live music, arts and crafts, Bollywood dancing, a photo booth, face-painting and food trucks. Click here to register for the walk, or donate to Team Ariel or other teams. To learn more about STAR, click here.

Ariel Levy (center) with her parents.

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When you live on Myrtle Avenue, sooner or later nearly everyone in town passes your house.

When you post a sign, it better be a good one.

This isn’t just good, though. It’s great!

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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Former Wesptorter Marie “Tina” Jennings-Kamber died April 15 in Sarasota, Florida. She was 98.

Tina came to the US from Venice, Italy in 1948 as a war bride.  She established and ran a Ridgefield children’s clothing store, the Cortina Shop.

She married Sereno Jennings of Westport, where they eventually settled. She was a member of Greens Farms Church.

They spent winters in Islamorada, Florida. The couple built the first tennis club, “The Net,” in the Keys, then moving to the mainland in 1983.

After her husband’s passing she met United Nations Diplomat Hans W. Kamberg. Because of their European connection they became close friends. and married soon..

Tina is survived by her step-grandchildren, including former daughter-in-law Ruth Jennings of Westport.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Resurrection House, 507 Kumquat Court, Sarasota, Fl. 34230.

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When you live in Westport, you get used to cormorants.

Still, William Whitmal says — today’s “Westport … Naturally” photographer — he’d never seen so many as the other day, in the Saugatuck River.

(Photo/William Whitmal)

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And finally … April Stevens, who won a Grammy Award in 1963 for “Deep Purple,” died last week in Arizona. She was 93.

I knew the song was a duet with Nino Tempo. But until I read her obituary yesterday, I had no idea he was her brother.

(From here to Lyman, “06880” is where Westport meets the world. Please click here to contribute, and help us do keep doing it. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Library, Obituaries, Real estate, religion

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The COVID Chronicles

Posted on April 27, 2023 | 2 comments

Remember COVID?

Three years ago this month we stood in line outside Trader Joe’s. Then we washed the food we bought.

We hunted for toilet paper.

But mostly, we hunkered down at home.

Mary-Lou Weisman

Mary-Lou Weisman remembers those days. A journalist for publications like the New York Times and The Atlantic, and author of 5 books, the longtime Westporter was teaching an advanced memoir writing class at the Westport Library when her 10 students’ lives changed dramatically.

Sharing their writing had drawn the group tightly together. Suddenly, those bonds were threatened.

Weisman suggested they stay in touch, by email. For 7 months they wrote, hit “send,” responded, and wrote some more.

At first their topics were tame: following arrows in stores, their favorite walks, whether to keep coloring their hair.

Gradually, they ventured into more serious stuff: getting along (or not) with partners. The “invasion” of kids back from New York. The changing perceptions of time. Politics.

Here’s one example:

I like alone time. I used to call these days my “snow days” as I revert to those in the classroom.

Am I enjoying them this week? Yup, but the promise of a month or more, or even more, makes me think: not so much.

Spending this unforeseen amount of time with my husband, (who doesn’t always put in his hearing aids), the ubiquitous Fox News, our dog who is hanging onto life with a silver thread, and a blank calendar make me determined not to complain, go out for a walk every day, do custodial things like cleaning out my file cabinet, and finish up writing assignments that I’ve procrastinated and probably won’t get published anyway due to everything closing or, in my case, the newspapers where I’m published going under for lack of advertisers.

Yesterday I thought that that the only stores necessary to sustain life as I know it are grocery stores, bookstores, and wine stores. An owner of a bookstore I’m writing about thinks that Trump will close down ALL retail by the end of the week. Then what?

In April 2020, every store on Main Street was closed. (Photo/Molly Alger)

Two group members were hospitalized with COVID. They kept writing.

I’ve been admitted to the hospital. The latest is that I’ve developed violent vertigo that leaves me under the impression I’ve slithered to the floor of one of those horrible spinning teacup carnival rides. The puking starts instantaneously and sometimes lasts hours. It’s about the most miserable feeling I’ve ever experienced—and laws knows, having spent 20 years with the Mingler, I’ve seen some misery.

I either spend the days sleeping or puking and praying for sleep.

My Covid test came back negative, which surprised me. I suspect a false negative. However, if I don’t actually have it, I’m ideally situated to pick it up.

Today I needed a walker AND a babysitter just to take a fricking pee. I’m shaking my fist at some unnamed god.

I don’t know when I’ll be well enough to participate. Even writing this email required Herculean effort. I miss everyone.

Grumble, grumble, grumble. Stay alive through this shit show please.

A classmate wrote back:

Dear God, I’m so very, very, very sorry to read this news. You’re in the right place to get the help you need, in spite of corona crowding. My thoughts and hope are with you.

I think I may have gotten IT, also, as I woke up this morning with some of the symptoms. And here my family is so worried about my husband. I’m thinking, read “hoping,” I have a mild case. Stay tuned.

The tone of most pieces was conversational. Occasionally, there were confrontations.

“It was the whole arc of human feeling and activity,” Weisman says.

Seven months in, the class began meeting via Zoom. Weisman looked at the 700 pages they’d amassed, and realized: This is a document about what Westporters have experienced during the pandemic. It could be a book.

Gina Ryan, a student who is “technologically adept,” said she’d help. Weisman sent Library director Bill Harmer a sampling of the writing. He loved it. The Library signed on, to help produce it.

Ryan and Weisman edited the 700 pages. Alison McBain created the cover, and prepared the book for publication.

“The COVID Chronicles” went to the printer last week. On May 15 (7 p.m.), it will launch at the Library.

All 10 writers will read an entry. Then there’s food and drinks for everyone.

Just like a little over three years ago, in pre-pandemic days.

(Copies of “The COVID Chronicles” will be available at the May 15 event. Click here to order the color edition on Amazon. Click here for the black-and-white version. Click here for the Kindle one.)

(The book includes writing by Weisman, Ryan, G. Kenneth Bernhard, Bernadette Hutchings Birney, Lynn Goldman, Judith Hamer, Deborah Howland Murray, Morgaine Pauker, Donna Skolnick, Polly Tafrate and Maria Rossello Zobel.)

(“06880” covered COVID closely. We’re here for Westport, through good times and bad. Please click here to support this blog. Thank you!)

EXTRA CHAPTER: Here is one more excerpt from the book:

My husband came down with a 102-degree fever and a cough on Friday. The minute that thermometer left his mouth, I left the room and haven’t been back since. He has been quarantined for five days, and I’ve moved to a different floor of the house. Aside from a few business trips that kept us apart, this is the longest we’ve gone without touching each other since we met.

Now that we can’t be in the same room, I am so aware of how physical we are; how much that makes us feel loved.

My husband always likes to intertwine our hands, but his fingers are so bony it hurts, so I curl my fist inside his palm—our bizarre way of holding hands. We give each other friendly shoves to see who can get in the house first. We sit on the couch: our thighs touching, or his feet on my lap, or his arm around me, or my head on his shoulder. He hooks a finger in my belt loop when I try to stand up and pulls me back down to kiss me.

I drape myself around him while he pays the bills on his laptop. He comes up behind me when I’m in the kitchen (always at the worst times!) when I’m stir-frying or taking a tray out of the oven, and he bites my ear or snuffles my neck, while I squirm out of his grasp, half-annoyed and half-turned on, saying, “Hot stove! Hot stove!” Even in the car, we touch each other: he grabs my hand and puts it on the nape of his neck. Or he says, “Nobody’s checking me,” which means, “Take your hand and fluff the hair on the back of my head.”

When we sleep, we find each other: back-to-back, toes to leg, an arm curled over a chest. He reaches out his hand to me in the morning when his alarm goes off at 5:30, a little squeeze on my shoulder before he leaves. But now there’s none of that.

I miss him, but I am also supremely irritated by him now. I have become Beck-and-Call-Nurse-Waitress and I’m sick of it. I go up and down the stairs with water, popsicles, Tylenol, rice, pasta, salad, a hot water bottle, a fruit cup, tea, a thermos, more tea. I knock and run away. He leaves the dishes in the hall, and I put them in the dishwasher and scrub my hands like a surgeon. He asks for charging cables, books, a folding chair, a TV tray. I go up and down the stairs some more.

When his fever was very high, he was kind and grateful and said, “Thank you, thank you, you’re so nice,” every time he heard me outside his door. But his fever broke on Sunday and now that he’s feeling better, he has turned sarcastic and demanding. When I ask how he’s feeling, he coughs and says, “How do you think I’m feeling?” as if I’m an idiot. He’s mad that we’re out of bananas and accused me of “poor planning.” He’s tired of being cooped up in one room. He’s tired of talking through the door and me saying, “WHAT?! WHAT?! Okay, Mumbles!” because I can’t make out what he’s saying. He’s tired of texting me, and me not responding because I left my phone in the other room and didn’t hear it ping. We are tired of each other. And the longer we don’t touch each other, the more we both stop caring.

Through a closed door, I cannot see how cute he is; how his silly expressions always soften my anger and make me laugh, even when I don’t want to laugh. I can’t kiss the side of his neck or stroke his bristly sideburns. I can’t smell his smell, which always reminds me of pencil shavings and hotel soap. I can’t put my head on his chest and cry.

So many of our arguments, our temper tantrums, our fears and stress are resolved by our bodies. That “oh, come on,” nudge, raised eyebrows and sweet smile; that “you know you want a piece of this!” swagger that makes us giggle. We touch each other and it’s all okay. We are okay.

Nine… more… days.

“COVID Chronicles” includes photos of all class members, with and without masks. Shown here: Ken Bernhard and Lynn Goldman.

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Roundup: Daryl Hall, Church Lane, More Music …

Posted on April 25, 2023 | 3 comments

Nearly 40 years after Hall & Oates did not appear in Westport, Daryl Hall will be here.

That 1985 non-event is the stuff of local legend. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the town, Hall & Oates were signed for a special concert at Longshore.

Except the signing was done by a Westport nanny, who had no connection with the duo. It was, to use the technical term, BS.

Nearly 4,o0o people thronged Longshore, on a beautiful day.

They waited … waited … and waited. No Hall. No Oates. Nothing.

Staples High School student Cary Pierce had a band. They stepped up, saving the day (and kick-starting Cary’s eventual career, as one half of Jackopierce).

Now — in a new millennium — Daryl Hall has been signed for a Levitt Pavilion gala. He will be here August 24.

And there’s more: Todd Rundgren joins, as a special guest.

Levitt member pre-sale begins today at 10 a.m. Public sale starts Friday, at 10 a.m. Click here for all tickets. Click here for sponsorship opportunities.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is sill going strong. Four decades later, we’ll get to see for ourselves.

Hall and Oates, back in the day.

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More entertainment: Music returns to Church Lane June 2.

Area artists have already been booked, to add to the al fresco enjoyment of restaurants like Spotted Horse and soon-to-open The Blondinit.

The entertainment runs through September 30.

Click here for a full schedule — and a link to donate to the cause.

Music on Church Lane (Photo/Dan Woog)

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And all that jazz:

Staples High School’s Jazz Ensemble rocked the National Jazz Festival this past weekend in Philadelphia.

They placed 2nd in the top division, with drummer Witt Lindau receiving one of 3 Outstanding Musician medals. .

This is the second time the jazz program at Staples has been recognized nationally in recent years. The Staples High School Jazz Combo received first place in Small Ensemble Live Performance at the 2021 National Jazz Festival.

Congratulations to instructors Phil Giampietro, Gregg Winters, and all the young, award-winning musicians: seniors Jason Capozucca, Jaime Paul, Ana Jahnel, Delaney McGee, Henry Now, Jet Tober and Witt Lindau; juniors Freddie Aldridge, Zach Abramowitz, Deneil Betfarhad, Spencer Geiss, Ethan Walkmark and Matt Weiner; sophomores Sam Rondon, Tommy Linn and Cooper Paul, and freshman Charlie Beckwith.

The Staples High School Jazz Ensemble. Director Phil Giampietro is in the front row, at right.

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Today’s “What’s Next in Weston” with 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor covers the plan and timeline for construction of Weston’s first sidewalks. Click below for insights into this town-changing event, courtesy of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Speaking of podcasts: Beth Berger sends along a link.

In it,, former Westporter Blanche Napoleon is interviewed about her friendship with Dan Hartman. In the 1970s she made music with him in his “schoolhouse” studio here.

Blanche was a background singer on some of Dan’s biggest disco hits (“Instant Replay”, “Relight My Fire”, “Love Sensation”). They remained good friends until his death from AIDS in 1993.

“It’s a great piece of Westport musical history,” Beth — who is now friendly with Blanche, her Palm Beach neighbor — writes.

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The expanded Bruce Museum reopened 3 weeks ago. It showcases community, art, science and education, in a natural light setting.

Yesterday, the Y’s Women enjoyed a fascinating presentation by executive director and CEO Robert Wolstertoff.

The painting, sculpture, mineral and science galleries (the latter featuring penguins past and present) are free on Tuesdays. Free passes to the Bruce (and other museums) are available at the Westport Library.

Robert Wolstertorff at the Y’s Women meeting.

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Sunday’s rain did not deter Pam Constantikes’ friends.

A crew from Staples High School’s Class of 1981 walked to raise money for research to end pancreatic cancer, in her honor.

They note that contributions can still be made. Click here to help.

Walking for Pat Constantikes (from left): Suzanne Sherman Propp, Patty Kondub, Linda Prestegaard, Ann Wriedt Sisto, Lauren Tarshis, Susan Charlton Wallace, Helen Rauh Glenn.

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A new monthly podcast for the Westport Library’s Verso Studios features 2 familiar faces: Westport Writing Workshop leaders Patricia Dunn and Tessa Smith McGovern.

“Go Ahead, Write Something” is for “writers who want motivation and the deep-down truths about getting published, and how to find joy in writing and sharing your work with the world.”

The podcast launch begins this month. Five episodes are available via traditional podcast aggregators. Among them: Dunn and Smith McGovern’s StoryFest 2023 discussion with bestselling fantasy author Naomi Novik.

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Raccoons are known for their “bandit eyes.”

So it was appropriate that this one — the subject of today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — was fishing for dinner the other night behind the police station.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … for reasons unknown, today is National Telephone Day.

You remember telephones, right? The app you every once in a while use on your “smartphone”?

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and donations are tax-deductible. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Condo Hunt, Village Stories, Touch A Truck …

Posted on April 21, 2023 | 3 comments

In October, “06880” reported that Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito were putting their historic, gorgeous Beechwood home up for sale.

For 10 years, the internationally known pianist and his talented artist wife had opened their property — with its 216-year-old rooms, grand piano and towering copper beech tree — to the public. They hosted innovative salons, with everyone from Joshua Bell to dancers and chefs sharing their talents and ideas.

Six months later, the New York Times has picked up the story.

Frederic and Jeanine are the stars of this Sunday’s Real Estate “The Hunt” feature. Each week, the paper describes a home buyer’s search for the perfect property. Readers learn what they looked and did not purchase (and why) — and, of course, what they finally bought.

On Sunday, you can find out which of 3 Norwalk condos they decided on. You can click on the story here and find out too — but first you’ll have to take a quick quiz on which of the properties you would like, and which one you think Frederic and Jeanine preferred. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)

Jeanine Esposito and Frederic Chiu in their new home. (Photo/Jane Beiles for he New York Times)

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Earth Day is tomorrow.

With no school on Saturday, Kings Highway and Saugatuck Elementary Schools celebrated yesterday.

Parents gathered on the hill between to watch their kids sing “This Land is Your Land,” and offer tips about sustainability and the impact we all have on this planet.

4th and 5th graders beat drums to accompany the 800-plus students singing “This Pretty Planet” by Tom Chapin and Libana’s “The Earth is our Mother.”

The event was the the brainchild of Ashley Moran of SES and Priscila Jones of KHS, with great enthusiasm from music teachers Colleen Cooney and Amy Laurino. (Hat tip: Allegra Gatti Zemel)

Earth Day at Kings Highway and Saugatuck Elementary Schools.

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Every pediatrician’s office has story books in the waiting room.

Village Pediatrics has them outside too.

Patients — and their parents – know that a visit to 323 Riverside Avenue includes time exploring the “story walk” along the Saugatuck River, behind the building.

Dr. Nikki Gorman and her colleagues put up the first story when they moved in, nearly 8 years ago. They’ve changed them seasonally every since.

The Village staff enjoys picking different books to highlight — those with interesting stories, and plenty of illustrations.

The featured book right now is (aptly) “Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring.”

Everyone is welcome to enjoy this great tale. You don’t need an earache or cough to visit Village Pediatrics — well, at least their story walk.

Medical office assistant Nick Schiff Denota joined Village Pediatrics 2 years ago, after graduating from Weston High School. He takes pride in putting up and maintaining the story walk.

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Speaking still of kids: Fire trucks, police cars, ambulances, cranes, dump trucks, buses, big rigs, boats and others roll into the Imperial Avenue parking lot on Saturday, April 29.

They’re all part of the Westport Weston Co-op Nursery School’s 16th annual Touch-A-Truck fundraiser (9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; quiet hour without sirens or horns is 9 to 10 a.m.).

Children of all ages can get up close, climb on, and take photos with vehicles of all shapes and sizes.

They’ll also enjoy food trucks, music, balloon animals, magic shows, face painting, sensory play and more.

Admission is $35 per family. Click here for tickets.

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Moving on to teenagers: What’s the difference between the ACT and SAT exams? Which one should my child take? How much do test scores matter? How do test-optional schools evaluate applications?

Those questions and more will be addressed — and hopefully answered — next Tuesday (7 p.m., Zoom).

College admissions counselor Amy Chatterjee talks about “Everything You Didn’t Know — But Should — About the SATs/ACTs.”

The webinar — sponsored by S4 Study Skills — is free, but registration is required. Click here to sign up.

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As part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Rowan Center — a local sexual assault resource agency — wants everyone to know how to keep children safe.

On Monday, April 24 (7 p.m., MoCA Westport), they’ll share information about social media, mental health, and sexual violence prevention education. Click here for more information. The event is free.

To RSVP, email info@therowancenter.org.

Artwork for the Rowan Center event.

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The limited edition vinyl LP of “Verso Records: Volume One” has arrived. Now, the Westport Library gets ready to celebrate the “artists, conspirators and community” that helped create the first vinyl record ever recorded, produced and released by a public library.

June 3 marks the official release. It includes 12 live tracks from tri-state area artists. Genres include rock, jazz, hip hop, folk and indie. All were recorded at the Library’s Verso Studios.

A release party is set for that night (7 p.m., Trefz Forum). Four of the bands will perform live.

The release party is free. A $25 ticket option includes a copy of “Verso Records: Volume One” and a free drink. (No record player? A digital copy will be available for $10.)

The album is available for pre-order. Preorders can be picked up at the release party, or will be shipped afterward.

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Speaking of music: The United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston celebrates International Jazz Day with a unique, open worship service for all ages and denominations.

The April 30 event (4 p.m.) combines the liturgical traditions of vespers with the exciting, soulful sounds of saxophone player John Collinge, bassist Steve Clarke, pianist Pat Marafiote, drummer Chris Stanley, guitarist Antonio Penn, and vocalist Jae Jones.

It’s a great introduction to jazz for young audiences, and a toe-tapping service for all.

Admission is free (donations are accepted). For more information click here, or call 203-227-4707.

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The comedy/mystery “Bad Accents” kicks off the Westport Country Playhouse’s “New Works” series on Monday (April 24).

The audience is invited to meet playwright Matthew Greene and director Liam Lonegan (Playhouse assistant artistic director) in the lobby after the performance.

Click here for more information, and tickets. All seats are $25.

The cast of 5 includes Halima Henderson.

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“06880 has covered the hatching of swan eggs by the Saugatuck River, a few yards from the hustle, bustle and carbon monoxide of Parker Harding Plaza.

But a couple of days ago — after that birth — Alina Rodescu-Pitchon spotted another mother, with her nest.

“Westport … Naturally” — and all of downtown — is twice blessed.

(Photo/Alina Rodescu-Pitchon)

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And finally … Otis Redding III only 3 years old when his father and namesake died in a 1967 plane crash.

Otis III — who went on to a fruitful, career as a musician — died Tuesday in the Redding family’s home town of Macon, Georgia. He was 59, and suffered from cancer.

Otis III was not burdened by his father’s fame. He had his own band. But he also sang Otis’ biggest hit, “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay.”

Otis III worked with his family’s foundation to organize summer camps, teaching children to play music. And he served as president of the local chapter of Meals on Wheels. Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” scours the world for Westport stories. To help us do it, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Education, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Real estate, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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In Polarized Times, Westporters Seek Common Ground

Posted on April 21, 2023 | 5 comments

Mia Bomback is a Staples High School sophomore. She is not yet old enough to vote.

But, she writes: 

I am beginning to develop my political awareness. And in our increasingly divisive society, the slippery slope that is civil discourse is confusing and overwhelming. As such, I feel so privileged to be one of 2 local high school students on a brand new town-led initiative that has set out to create space for all voices.  

In the wake of complex controversies, Common Ground Initiative is a Westport organization comprised of 11  figures of different ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, political and ethnic backgrounds.

We are united by a shared goal: a desire to make Westport a comfortable place for uncomfortable conversation.

Mia Bombeck

Members of the Common Ground Initiative include former 1st selectman Jim Marpe, Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer, TEAM Westport chair Harold Bailey Jr., and other local professionals.

Adam Vengrow, a founding member of CG, says that the initiative was founded in response to increased tension in Westport’s political climate over the past 2 years. 

 “The goal of CG,” he explains, “is to create a safe space for open conversation, where people can learn to agree to disagree, and understand each other’s points of view.”  

Over the past few months, we have planned for our inaugural event and the introduction of our mission to the wider Westport community. Through a series of open forums and guest speakers at the Westport Library, we hope to teach and encourage attendees to engage in open, honest and healthy dialogue.

Senator Roy Blunt

The first of many CG-led discussions will be held on May 2 (7 p.m.), and will feature a moderated conversation with former United States senator Roy Blunt of Missouri, and opportunity for audience engagement. Westporter Steve Parrish will moderate the event.

For Westport, CG provides a platform for freedom of conversation and expression. As the world becomes more globalized, respect and tolerance of other viewpoints become even more crucial. This starts at the community level.

As I grow up, I’ll no doubt encounter many different perspectives. From college to the workplace and beyond, learning to agree to disagree is a skill worth its weight in gold.

For more details on the May 2 Common Ground event. click here.

(“06880” gives a voice to teenagers like Mia Bombeck — and all Westporters. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Library, Politics

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Haberstroh, Harmer: “First Citizen” Honorees

Posted on April 19, 2023 | 2 comments

Two men who have made their mark on Westport will be honored as First Citizens.

Charlie Haberstroh — a longtime civic volunteer, and founder and CEO of CastleKeep Investment Advisors — and Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer are honorees of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

The first First Citizen Award dinner since the pandemic is set for June 8 (Branson Hall, Christ & Holy Trinity Church). The keynote speaker is Senator Richard Blumenthal.

The event honors one non-profit leader, and one businessperson. They “represent what is best in our town for their work ethic, generosity and how they approach business,” says Chamber director Matthew Mandell.

From left: Charlie Haberstroh and Bill Harmer.

“It is a distinct honor to be recognized by a community that has given my family so much since we moved here in 1990,” says Haberstroh.

“Whether it’s long nights on the baseball fields, picturesque sunsets at Compo Beach or digging out of the sand hazards at the Longshore golf course, I cherish the many memories and experiences in Westport,” says Haberstroh.

“Since I founded my investment advisory firm in 2000, I’ve also had the privilege of giving back to the community through public service. I was inspired to do so by my wife and by Bill Meyer who also inspired many who continue to serve Westport.”

Harmer calls himself “deeply humbled and moved by this recognition by my friends at the Chamber of Commerce, for frankly doing work that I absolutely love and am extremely passionate about.

“Thanks also to my staff and our Board of Trustees who consistently support our vision and allow me to be a part of this magnificent place we call Westport and the Westport Library.”

Also receiving awards: 4 “Young Entrepreneurs.” Marley Brown, Akhila Kooma, Addison Moore and Jamie Semaya are seniors from Weston and Staples High Schools. All created new and intriguing business ventures.

Tickets are $125 each. Tables of 10 are also available. Click here for details.

(“06880” relies on reader support. Please click here to contribute — and thank you!)

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