Betty Lou Cummings — a Westport resident for over 58 years, who made her mark on town in innumerable ways — died suddenly from an accident on January 3. She was 90.
Pennsylvania native Betty Lou Lundstedt recently celebrated her 69th wedding anniversary with her college sweetheart Thomas. She was a graduate of Michigan State University, with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physical education and dance.
At MSU. she was one of the first 6 females cheerleaders. She later taught at MSU, and Vassar College.
Early in their marriage the Cummingses lived in Waco, Texas and Poughkeepsie, New York, where she became the YMCA director.
Betty Lou Cummings
Her family says, “Encouraging others to achieve higher goals through cheerful interactions was a mark of Betty Lou’s enduring presence. This was the continuing gift she brought to everything she did.”
Her many achievements include Connecticut state champion for sewing, president of the Staples High School PTA (1981), Sportsmen of Westport (1991), YMCA Faces of Achievement (1998), and the Rotary Club’s Paul Harris Award (2003).
In midlife her interests and leadership expanded into politics. She was elected as Westport’s second selectwoman, and served from 1993 to 1997.
During her years as a community leader, she supported many important projects, including founding the Apple Festival, fundraising for CLASP, and the Westport Library’s Riverwalk and River of Names projects.
She was instrumental in the town’s purchase of Cockenoe Island, preventing construction of a nuclear power plant.
She helped organize Random Acts of Kindness Days, and will be remembered as a joyful presence in her role as a judge for Westport’s annual Memorial Day parade.
Other public service included selection as a delegate to Russia and China for Bridges for Peace.
Betty Lou Cummings (left) and Joanne Nistico, advertising the Apple Festival.
She and Tom were ardent world travelers, visiting over 100 different countries. She loved seeing cultures and wild animals, and viewed the world as a miracle.
The Cummings family spent 50 memorable years skiing at Okemo, and 13 with fun-filled gatherings at Ocean City.
Her family adds, “She made sure every holiday was a full experience of love, recognition, and her delicious homemade cakes. She developed a deep skill as our historian and chronicler of activities with her newsletters and holiday cards.
“Betty Lou will be remembered as a generous, deeply caring and compassionate person of principle. She spent her life advancing the positive whenever she could with enthusiasm, hard work, her laughter and her winning smile. Along the way, Betty Lou met any challenge head-on, was resilient, constructive and always optimistic.”
Betty Lou and Tom Cummings, at their 69th wedding anniversary last month.
Betty Lou is survived by her husband; sons Mark (Lisa Livingston) of Modesto, California; Mathew (Michele Grether) of Trumbull, and Todd (Kate Francek) of Fairfield; grandchildren Mathew Jr., Ella, Caroline, Zoe and Toby; sisters Janet Hanes and Diane Martin, and brother Roy Lundstedt. She was predeceased by her son Edwin, and brothers Jack and Bob.
Visitation is set for Friday (January 10, 4 to 8 p.m., Harding Funeral Home). Her memorial service is Saturday (January 11, 10 a.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church). Burial will be private.
The editor-in-chief of CTBites, Stephanie Webster, lived in Westport for many years.
But only 2 restaurants make the foodies’ webiste list of “Staff Picks for Top Eats of 2024.”
One is Casa Me. Webster writes:
Casa Me recently launched Sunday Brunch. If you don’t live in and around Westport you could miss this spot, but it’s quietly the hardest rez to get in Fairfield County.
One of my faves is a brunch item, Pane Dorato, made with Pandoro, the sweet Christmas bread from Verona. The sweet bread is perfect for french toast and he pairs this with cannoli creme, frutti di bosco compote and olive oil maple syrup. It’s what everyone needs on a Sunday morning.
Pane Dorato, at Casa Me.
The other is Allium Eatery. Managing editor Andrew Dominick says:
Michelle Greenfield’s French-ish, seasonal, creative menu is not to be missed. After a CRAZIES nomination for Best Chef, you best make a reservation, because the word is out about this once best kept secret.
Looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve before midnight?
Spacecat Brewing Company is sponsoring a “Beer & Burger Night.” It’s 5 to 8 p.m. tonight, at VFW Post 399.
There are Spacecat swag giveaways too. The perfect thing to bring to your midnight event. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)
Happy New Year! (From 5 to 8 p.m., anyway).
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Yesterday’s Roundup reported that J. Crew is moving from 145 Main Street space, to 27 Main Street (former Pottery Barn).
However, the move is temporary. They’ll be there only during the renovation of their current store.
27 Main Street.
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The new year has not yet begun. But Club203 is ready.
Their first event of the season is Friday (January 3, 6:30 to 8 p.m.), at the Westport Dance Academy.
The evening includes martial arts with Sensi Pilardy and Club203 member Bella Rizzi; dancing with Judy Samuels; TikTok moves with Shea and Carly; ballet with XX, and art by MoCA.
Click here for more information on Club203, including registration information.
Chris Marcocci — the former owner of Local to Market, and a noted and passionate Westporter — died at his home on Sunday.
After a career as a vice president of non-traditional revenue for iHeart (formerly Clear Channel) Radio in Tampa, he embarked on an entrepreneurial journey.
In 2005 Chris founded Streetmarc Advertising and Marketing in South Norwalk. He later moved the office in Westport, and adde branches in Florida and Pennsylvania. Streetmarc helped brands grow market share at the retail level, through consumer promotions and events.
Chris was also an adviser to the Food’N Bev Connect group. That inspired him to launch Local to Market, a concept retail store on Main Street, in the former Talbots and Remarkable Book Shop space.
Local To Market showcased Connecticut farms and food products, and local artisans and local musicians.
Chris enjoyed all that Westport offers, from beaches and sunsets to fishing and hanging out with friends.
His annual trip to Italy with his wife Rita was the highlight of his life.
He was also an avid scuba diver. and enjoyed live music events with his wife and friends.
A celebration of Chris’ life will take place in the next few weeks.
I know, I know: It’s New Year’s Eve, and there’s no snow on the ground.
But just a week ago was Christmas Eve. Here’s a very cool (and warm) “Westport … Naturally” shot, from outside Rick Benson’s window:
(Photo/Rick Benson)
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And finally … hit it, Guy!
(Our final reminder of 2024: If you’ve enjoyed “06880” all year, there is still time to support our work — and get a tax deduction to boot. Just click here. And, for the last time this year: Thank you!)
Longtime Westporter Donald Siegelaub died peacefully on Thursday. His children Susan Katz and Steven Siegelaub were with him. He was 99 years old.
After graduating from Midwood High School in his native Brooklyn in 1943, Don enlisted in the Army on his 18th birthday. He was part of the 4th Infantry Division during the D-Day assault on Utah Beach. Don saw heavy combat duty in the hedgerows of Normandy. In late July 1944, he was seriously wounded in action. He was evacuated to England and then the US for treatment and recovery. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his heroism.
After his discharge, Don attended Texas Christian University on a basketball scholarship. But he missed his family and friends, and at 21 he enrolled at Brooklyn College.
Don was the star center on Brooklyn’s famed basketball team, and met 16-year-old Marcia Jaffe. Though offered an NBA contract, Don moved on from basketball after graduation.
However, he stuck with and married his soulmate Marcia in 1950. They were inseparable for 62 years, until Marcia’s death in 2012.
During the 1950s, Don and 2 partners began a construction business in New York City. Recognizing an opportunity with the post-war housing boom in the Connecticut suburbs, Don relocated to Westport. He and Marcia put down roots and raised their young family.
Throughout the 1960s Don and his partners built hundreds of homes in Westport and surrounding communities in southern Connecticut. Don went out on his own in the early ’70s. He expanded his business to commercial construction, then built high-end single family homes in Westport and Weston.
Don and Marcia were early members of Rolling Hills Country Club, and founding members of Temple Israel in Westport. As avid supporters of the Anti- Defamation League, they opened their home each summer for fundraising events.
His family says, “Don will be remembered for his devotion to country, family, friends and community, as well as a life of honor, integrity and generosity.
He is survived by his children Susan Katz (Michael Ian) and Steven Siegelaub, grandchildren Adam Katz (Natasha), Sophie Katz (Brandon Williams), Jonathan Siegelaub (Kathy) and Tracy Siegelaub, and great-grandchildren Sila, River, Jacob and Estella.
Don’s funeral will be held at 1 p.m. today (Sunday), at Temple Israel.
Don Siegelaub
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Robert May — a 35-year special education teacher in Westport — died peacefully at his Southport home on December, surrounded by family. He was 77.
After his long and well-respected career in education, Bob turned toward gardening and other outdoor activities.
He was known for long daily walks along the beaches of Westport and Southport, during which he collected treasures. Bob turned everything from driftwood to discarded toys into intricate, whimsical and beautiful pieces of art.
Bob was also an avid photographer. With a keen eye for color and contrast, he captured the natural world. He shared his pieces and photographs widely with friends and family.
Bob spent many years volunteering with the Operation Hope food pantry, building friendships and providing support and laughter.
His family says, “his gentle spirit and presence meant Bob was also a chosen favorite of many dogs over the course of his life, as though they could sense that they had found a kindred spirit. Bob delighted in simple pleasures: hot and (very) sweet coffee, a well-crafted wooden slotted spoon, the skittering of shorebirds along the beach, a long and meandering conversation with a loved one, and an ice-cold vodka martini, extra dry.”
Bob was predeceased by his younger brothers Bruce, Werner and Daniel. He is survived by his older brother Richard; children Morgan May and Whitney Buckley, and their spouses; 4 grandchildren; his ex-wife and dear friend Kaye May, and a wide circle of family and friends.
Visitation is set for January 11 (10 a.m. to noon), followed at noon by a service to celebrate Bob’s life at Spear Miller Funeral Home in Fairfield. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bob’s honor to Operation Hope.
Bob May
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows a serene holiday scene on the Saugatuck River, behind Richmondville Avenue.
And finally … happy 78th birthday to Marianne Faithfull.
Her first hit single was written by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards (a current Weston resident) and Andrew Loog Oldham (a former Wilton resident who spent a lot of time in Westport):
Jagger and Richards were said to have written this song about her:
(You can’t always get what you want. But you can click here, to support “06880” with a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
“Caroling Crawl” — a Saugatuck tradition — continues this Saturday (December 21, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.).
Staples High School’s elite a cappella group the Orphenians will entertain diners at several restaurants, in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event.
They’ll start at the Saugatuck Rowing Club’s Boathouse, then make their rounds at other restaurants around Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place and the rest of the neighborhood, ending at the Little Pub at Dunville’s.
Add that to the list of specials on Saturday’s menu!
Staples Orphenians’ Caroling Crawl.
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Speaking of Christmas in Saugatuck: Startup Westport — the public/private partnershp for tech entrepreneurs and innovators — chose a perfect location for their holiday party.
Nearly 150 people gathered at Content Studio — Chirag Shah and Jay Norris’ Saugatuck Avenue production studio/meeting/media location — to celebrate the season.
Startup Westport events are always high-energy, with plenty of creative men and women sharing ideas and networking.
Throw in food, drinks, and a DJ, and it was one of the organization’s best events in their very busy 2 years.
Some of the many attendees enjoying yesterday’s Startup Westport holidy party, at Content Studio.
Startup Westport co-founder Jay Norris and his wife Crystal. They celebrated both the party, and her birthday.
A memorial service for Dick Fincher — the Tree Board chair, Earthplace and Staples Tuition Grants board member, and church vestryman, who died October 31 at 86 — will be held Saturday, December 28, at 11;30 a.m. at Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.
A reception will follow. The public is invited to attend.
Dick Fincher
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16 teams of Staples High School students and Westport Police officers hurled balls at each other Monday, in the annual Westport Youth Commission dodgeball tournament.
The event — held in the Staples fieldhouse — has 2 important rules. Each team must include 1 cop. And no aiming at heads.
Otherwise, is a night for ducking, diving, and of course dodging.
Staples’ Teen Awareness Group co-sponsored the tourney. Entry fees help fund their projects.
The Dodge-a-Cop champs! From left: James Penny, Anthony Armentano, Charles Clark, Casey Bag, Nicholas Weil, Officer Mike Davis. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
Margery Fisher — a longtime Coleytown Middle School librarian, children’s book author and the wife of noted illustrated Leonard Everett Fisher — died peacefully at home on Friday. She was 94.
After majoring in mathematics and earning Phi Beta Kappa honors at Mount Holyoke College, Margery was recruited by IBM to teach at their school in New York City.
She soon became a system service representative, one of the very few women in the IBM business machine program and pioneering computer path.
While at IBM she met and married her husband of 71 years. She and Leonard moved to New Haven. IBM transferred Margery to its office there. For the next several years she serviced IBM’s growing business machine products, from industrial computers installed in hardware stores and grocery stores to the United States Navy’s first atomic submarine, the USS Nautilus.
Margery left IBM prior to the birth of their children. After moving to Westport she earned a master’s degree in library science at Southern Connecticut State University.
She served as Coleytown Middle School’s librarian for 25 years, retiring in 1995.
Margery was the author of 2 children’s books, for which her husband provided the illustrations: “But Not Our Daddy” and “One and One.”
Margery continued her interest in children’s literature after retiring. She joined the Bank Street College Book Committee, creating, editing and publishing world-wide yearly lists of the best in North American children’s literature.
Margery and Leonard lived in Westport for more than 68 years. They traveled the world together from England (33 times) to the Panama Canal, Italy, Russia, Egypt, China, Hawaii, Normandy and Maine.
Margery is survived by her children Julie Fisher (Robert Aldoroty), Susan Fisher Plotner, and James Fisher (Pamela Viglielmo); grandchildren Lauren, Michael, Samuel, Jordan, Gregory and Danielle, and her sister Betty Meskin Pincus.
Donations in Margery and Leonard’s name can be made to the “Margery & Leonard Everett Fisher Endowment for Children’s Books in the Arts,” c/o Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport, CT 06880.
Margery Fisher
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Longtime Westport arts community member and philanthropist Gary Cosgrave died peacefully on Monday. He was 82.
A graduate of Mamaroneck (New York) High School, Gary did not go to college because he suffered from undiagnosed dyslexia. Nevertheless, he achieved remarkable business success.
After the passing of his father, Paul, Gary took over the family business, PROGroup, and as chair and CEO turned it into a conglomerate of 5 businesses: Pro Hardware. Garden Master and Farm Mart, as well an advertising agency and distribution business.
For over 25 years Gary was an active member of Vistage, a worldwide business advisor group. After selling his business in 2011, Gary continued to mentor business executives and entrepreneurs, and was on the board of Soluxe Inc., parent company of Solomon Community Solar LLC.
Gary served for many years on the boards of the Westport Country Playhouse and MoCA CT. In 2012 he was honored by the Westport Art Center for his success as chair in stabilizing the group’s finances and developing a new strategic vision.
He was a major donor to the Southport School, an independent day school for cerebrodiverse children dealing with challenges like dyslexia, and to Seeds for Peace and Operation Smile.
An accomplished sailor and scuba diver, Gary threw himself into underwater photography. He built an impressive portfolio of stunning images that he published as books, sold and displayed widely. He co-authored a book, “Stop, Think and Dream: Be the Difference That Makes a Difference (Teens for Planet Earth),” empowering New York City teenagers.
Gary survived by his fiancé Dina Upton of Westport; son Terry Cosgrave of Colorado Springs, and grandchildren Michaela Patry, Lily Cosgrave, Isabell and Ella Rosenberg. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruby, daughter Tracey, and brothers Jack and Victor.
Gary’s ashes will be interred at his family plot at Lakeview Cemetery in New Canaan on February 8 (10:30 a.m.), followed by a celebration of his life at Rive Bistro (11:30 a.m.).
Claudia Sherwood Servidio — one of our very talented “Westport … Naturally” contributors — finds beauty everywhere.
She shot this image yesterday, at rainy Sherwood Island State Park:
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And finally … Robert Moses — the urban planner responsible for the construction of hundreds of highways, bridges, tunnels, playgrounds, beaches — and a World’s Fair — in and around New York, sometimes for better and sometimes for worse, was born on this day in 1888. He died in 1981.
(Holy Moses! If you appreciate “06880”‘s daily coverage of all things Westport, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Carole Schweid — an actor, playwright, author, and a Westport icon as co-founder and artistic director of “Play With Your Food,” the local lunchtime play-reading program — died earlier today at her Westport home.
Carole was also a member of the original cast of “A Chorus Line.”
After graduating from the Juilliard School, she began her Broadway career as an original cast member of “Minnie’s Boys,” the Marx Brothers musical starring Shelley Winters.
On television she was a member of “Fitz & Bones,” the Smothers Brothers’ series.
Carole Schweid
In addition to working regularly as a dancer, singer and actor, Carole wrote 2 plays: the off-Broadway “On The Bench,” and “Agnes.” The latter — a one-woman show about choreographer Agnes de Mille — was performed at the Smithsonian Institution theater.
The success of Carole’s Play With Your Food led her to write “Staged Reading Magic: A Play Producer’s Quick Guide for Turning a Free Staged Reading into a Hot Theater Ticket.”
Carole is survived by sons Max Lance and Daniel Lance; grandchildren Bailey and Leo Lance; her brother Robert Schweid, and her former husband, Steven Lance.
A memorial service will be scheduled for Westport in January.
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This past July, “06880” honored the final “Play With Your Food” shows with this tribute:
Play With Your Food” — the staged reading, script-in-hand series (plus delicious lunch) that has entertained and delighted audiences at local venues for 20 years — has reached the final curtain.
“All good things must come to an end,” says Carole, Schweid, artistic director for the series’ organizer, JIB Productions. She has had health issues, and executive producer Diana Muller is retiring.
Carole Schweid
After 350 performances, with 200 professional actors and 135 playwrights, the final performances are October 15 (MoCA CT), October 16 (Pequot Library, Southport) and October 17 (Greenwich Arts Council). All performances are noon to 2 p.m.
“Theater, lunch and hijinks await,” Schweid promises. “Plus cake!”
“Twenty years is a long time,” she notes. She looks back fondly on those 2 decades — and the beginning, when she and fellow PTA Cultural Arts Committee member Nancy Diamond were talking about their 2 passions: theater and food.
Realizing there was no theatrical entertainment around lunchtime, they had a “let’s put on a show!” moment.
Carole Schweid and Nancy Diamond, “Play With Your Food” founders.
Schweid has a BFA from Juilliard, and Broadway stage experience in “Pippin” and the original cast of “A Chorus Line.”
She and Diamond knew there were plenty of actors in the area — and plenty in New York who would be interested in a lunch-hour gig.
They also knew everyone’s time was tight. So they focused on one-acts. There would be a staged reading, followed by a compelling talkback with the director, actors and/or playwright — and lunch, catered by a local restaurant.
“Play With Your Food” would nourish the heart and soul — and stomach. And it would all take place relatively quickly, during lunch hour (okay, hour-and-a-half).
Let’s eat!
The first “Play With Your Food” was at Toquet Hall. Schweid and Diamond marketed it through postcards to friends.
It was an instant hit. The audience wanted more.
Over the next 20 years, they got it.
Schweid and Muller searched all over, for the best one-acts. They traveled to one-act festivals around the country. They prowled book fairs and libraries.
From Arthur Miller, Langston Hughes, Tom Stoppard and Ray Bradbury to Mark Twain; from up-and-coming playwrights to obscure, semi-forgotten ones — if Schweid and her colleagues liked a show, they figured, audiences would too.
There were 3 productions a year. Schweid likens them to a sandwich: a couple of “funny or wacky” shows at the top and bottom of the schedule; another with “heft” in the middle.
The plays range from comedies and romances to mysteries and musicals, from classics to unpublished works. Despite the wide variety, all share one element: The audience must leave in an uplifted mood.
A lively scene from a staged reading.
“Play With Your Food” expanded to Southport, Stamford and Greenwich. The Fairfield Theatre Company provided “the perfect black box” experience. In Westport, they outgrew Toquet Hall. MoCA, on Newtown Turnpike, offered more space, and an artsy vibe.
Big names graced the “Play With Your Food” stage. James Naughton, Mia Dillon, Stacy Morgain Lewis, Scott Bryce, Mark Shanahan and many others embraced the chance to do a different, unique and fun kind of theater.
“Who gets to hear people like this, in a setting like that?” Schweid asks.
Plus, she notes, “You didn’t have to travel. This was all home-grown.”
When COVID struck, Schweid and her crew pivoted. “If Joe Papp can do Shakespeare in the Park, why couldn’t we do Chekhov in the parking lot?” she wondered.
Former Staples High School Players actors like Matt Van Gessel and Max Samuels helped audiences weather that storm.
Lunch was an essential part of the experience. Popular places like The Porch, Blue Lemon, Da Pietro, Matsu Sushi and Spic & Span made meals almost as memorable as the plays.
“We celebrated good acting, good writing, good food, a good community coming together, and intellectual or emotional stimulation,” Schweid says.
“That’s how people will remember ‘Play With Your Food.’
In just 2 years, Club203 has earned a cherished spot among Westport’s non-profits.
Part of Westport’s Department of Human Services, and the town’s Commission on People with Disabilities, the organization provides monthly social gatherings for adults with disabilities.
Now, Club203 has earned a $10,000 check.
The Westport Woman’s Club presented the Ruegg Grant on Monday. It’s one of the ways the WWC gives back to the community, by funding projects focused on social services, health, safety, arts and education. The grants were established by former club member Lea Ruegg.
Westport Woman’s Club, Club203 and Human Services Department officials (from left): Vera Rhimes, Erin Gensel-Cancro, Nancy Austin, Virginia Ferrari, Sharuna Mahesh, Stacie Curran, Audrey Rabinowitz, Elaine Daignault.
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Elvis is in the building!
Well, he will be on December 20 (7:15 p.m.). The building is VFW Post 399 (465 Riverside Avenue).
As for Elvis, who has been dead for nearly 50 years: The evening is called “Blue Christmas with ‘The King.'”
It’s a tribute to the rock ‘n’ roll icon, including his Top 40 hits, along with his Christmas songs.
Tickets are $35 ($30 for VFW members), and include a buffet. Click here, or call 302-312-3774.
An even more dead legend — William Shakespeare — is in the news too.
Diane Lowman has joined Shakespeare Birthplace America’s board of directors.
An essayist, memoirist, poet and Shakespeare scholar, she served as Westport’s first poet laureate (2019-22).
Lowman’s first memoir, “Nothing But Blue,” chronicled her experiences aboard a German container ship during college. Her latest, “The Undiscovered Country: Seeing Myself Through Shakespeare’s Eyes,” narrates her journey of self-discovery through the lens of Shakespeare’s works.
Lowman earned an MA in Shakespeare studies from the University of Birmingham’s Shakespeare Institute (2017), an MBA from Pepperdine University, and a BA in economics from Middlebury College. She teaches writing, Shakespeare, and yoga/mediation, and divides her time between Westport and Stratford-Upon-Avon, England.
Diane Lowman with her favorite author, at Stratford-Upon-Avon.
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Having a high school All-American athlete is a feather in any program’s cap.
Staples High School has not one, but two, this year.
Senior Annabel Edwards and junior Natalie Chudowsky were named to the 63-person United Soccer Coaches All-America squad. Both play midfield.
Chudowsky is one of only 4 girls — and the only 11th grader — to be named to the team for the third time. She has been an All-American since freshman year. She is also a regular call-up for US national youth team camps.
Edwards will play soccer at the University of Chicago next fall. Chudowsky has already committed to Duke University, beginning in 2026.
Edwards and Chudowsky will be honored next month, at the United Soccer Coaches convention in Chicago.
Speaking of sports: Rugby and football are very popular. But many parents have safety concerns.
This winter, Westport PAL will offer tackle and fitness winter clinics. The goal is to prepare 5th through 8th graders in Fairfield County to feel safe, confident and effective in tackle situations.
The focus is on development of core fitness, stamina, strength and skill.
Coaches include an international jiu-jitsu professor, a former US national team rugby player, and college football athletes.
PAL officials say, “Although no contact sport is entirely without risk, substantial evidence demonstrates that removing the head from direct contact significantly reduces the potential for harm.
“In recent years, both collegiate and NFL teams have increasingly adopted ‘rugby tackle’ techniques to protect athletes. We believe youth athletes deserve the same skill level of protection.
Click here for information on dates, location, fees, registration and more.
Proper technique minimizes injuries.
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Just in time for the 12 Days of Christmas: 11 Artist of Connecticut, at Picture This/Nylen Gallery (772 Post Road East).
And instead of 5 golden rings: 5 are from Westport: Nina Bentley (assemblage and prints), Linn Cassetta (mixed media on wood), Gali Katz (etchings), Judy Katz (porcelain vessels) and Tom Kretsch (photography).
Another — Marjorie Sopkin — grew up here.
An opening reception is set for this Friday (December 13, 5 to 7 p.m.). The show runs through January 11. The show is curated by John Bygott.
The Westport Astronomical Society free lecture series continues December 17 (8 p.m.), with a special free classroom lecture.
Dr. Debra Wallace — deputy branch chief for astrophysics at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center — will join remotely. Her topic is pretty big: “Exploring the Vast Cosmic Structures of the Universe.” Click here for more information.
It’s also the WAS Pre-Winter Solstice Holiday Party.
Santa has his eye on the universe.
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A pair of speakers from the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants addressed yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club lunch meeting.
They described the work of the 105-year-old non-profit. Through offices in Bridgeport, Stamford, Hartford and Waterbury, they provide legal aid, educational programs and social services for refugees, immigrants and survivors of human trafficking and torture. They also teach job placement skills and financial literacy.
Susan Schnitzer, president and CEO of the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants, and Deo Byakisaka, assistant director of refugee services, at yesterday’s Rotary Club meeting. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
Amy Swanson sent this image yesterday, with a seasonally appropriate note: ”
(Photo/Siobhan Crise)
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Staples High School Class of 1988 graduate William Westcott died suddenly on December 2.
The youngest of 6 children, he studied fine art at Washington University in St. Louis, followed by an apprenticeship under his mentor, the artist Mike Skop.
Bill then became a marketing and business strategist, for over 30 years.
After moving to New York City he met his wife, Jill. They raised their family in Tribeca.
His family says, “He was generous to a fault and for anyone who needed help, never a question asked. He was a fixer in every sense of the word. He had a creative superpower, a natural knack for building and a work ethic bar none.”
Bill loved road trips, vacation adventures, cookouts with family and friends, sailing, history and movies.
His desire to share with his children the values of small-town life led to their first summer place in Old Saybrook. Bill transformed a little bungalow into a comfortable weekend cottage, with room for kids and guests.
Bill is survived by his wife, Jill Cunniffe; children Greta, Finn and Luke Westcott of New York, and Old Saybrook, and siblings Mitch of Fort Myers, Florida, Wendy of Litchfield, Annie MacPhail of Tortola, British Virgin Islands, and Mary Thomajan of Belmont, Massachusetts; many nieces and nephews, and his terrier Norman. He was predeceased by his brother Mike.
And finally … in honor of Elvis’ December 20 concert at the VFW (story above):
(We’ll have a blue Christmas, if you take “06880” for granted. We rely on the generous support of readers. Please click here to make an end-of-year, tax deductible contribution. Thank you!)
Today is the day: the 4th annual “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll.
It’s 5 to 7 p.m., on Main Street, plus the parking lots at Elm Street, and all around downtown.
There is something for everyone. For kids, there’s a candy wagon, photos with Santa and the Grinch, face painting, crafts, Buddy the Elf and other Staples Players costumed characters, piglet reindeer, a mailbox for Santa letters … you get the idea.
Plus smores at Nômade, a DJ dance party, kettle corn, hot chocolate, a human snow globe, and a holiday market with artisans, non-profit booths, plus goodies from non-downtowners like Alina’s Cakes, and The Clubhouse.
Don’t forget to bring an unwrapped toy too, for the Westport PAL and Police Department collection.
Plus, nearly 100 stores, restaurants and other businesses offer deals, discounts and giveaways.
Here’s a small sampling: Complimentary nibbles and hot chocolate at stores. Cocktails and Champagne at restaurants. Raffles. Gifts with purchases. 15, 25, 50% off. Free classes.
To see the entire list, click here, then scroll down. See you tonight at the Stroll!
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Westport’s second tree lighting ceremony of the week — the Wakeman Town Farm one — “lit up” a large crowd yesterday.
The Wakeman Town Farm tree …
What started as a Wakeman family tradition has continued for all Westporters.
The Porch and Sweet P Bakery supplied cookies, treats and hot chocolate. The Westport Fire Department kept eye on a bonfire. Greens Farms and Saugatuck Elementary, and Staples High School, musicians played. Awesome Toys handed out gifts.
And 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker — accompanied by Wakeman family member Bill Constantino — did the switch-throwing honors.
… and tree lighters Bill Constantino and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.
The annual Westport Police Department toy drive kicks off today. The joint effot, with the Police Athletic League and Police Benevolent Association, continues tomorrow, and next weekend too.
New, unopened and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders — along with cash, to buy toys — will be collected at Athletic Shoe Factory (1560 Post Road East) Saturdays and Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
You can also drop off unwrapped toys at Police headquarters on Jesup Road (any time), or Awesome Toys & Gifts and The Toy Post, during business hours.
There will be a collection box on Elm Street too, during tonight’s “06880”/ Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll (5 to 7 p.m.).
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Some people call next weekend’s Staples High School concert “Candlelight.”
Generous audience members will also make it “Can-Delight.”
On Friday and Saturday, the Tri-M National Music Honor Society is sponsoring a canned food drive. Collection boxes will be set up in the main lobby.
Concert-goers are invited to bring boxed or bagged stuffing; canned sweet potatoes, vegetables, fruit, tuna, chicken, meat, soup, beef stew and chili; instant mashed potatoes; boxed macaroni and cheese; brownie, cake and pie mix; cranberry sauce; shelf-stable milk and almond milk; hot and cold cereal.
Come on, Candlelight guests. You “can” help our neighbors in need!
The Romanacci team followed up last month’s great “Evening in Rome” 5-course dinner at Old Mill Grocery & Deli with a second, Thursday night.
It was another night for beach neighbors to come together. Old friendships were rekindled and new ones were made, over excellent food and very good wines.
Based on raves for the first 2 dinners, Romanacci’s plans more after the holidays.
Old Mill Grocery’s “Night in Rome” dinner. (Photo/Carol Alexander)
Yesterday’s Roundup item about Staples High School’s Italian Club fundraiser for Centra La Tenda, a community organization serving needy children in Naples, omitted a link.
Click here to donate. Click here, then scroll down to read more about the project.
Several dozen people filled Rizzuto’s last night, for Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport’s annual holiday party.
In keeping with the organization’s mission of helping new and longtime residents connect through common interests and social events, guests ranged from born-and-bred Westporters, to those who moved here this summer.
For more informaiton on Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport, click here.
Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport president Alma Sarelli (2nd from left), and members at last night’s party. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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Speaking of parties: Non-members are welcome at the upcoming Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce Holiday Party.
It’s this Wednesday (December 11, 5 to 7 p.m., Harvest restaurant). Tickets ($35 for members, $40 for non-members, $5 extra for walk-ins) include one drink. Click here for reservations.
Joyce Thompson — longtime president of the Westport Arts Center — died peacefully at her Weston home, surrounded by her family. She was 90, and had been diagnosed with cancer.
She graduated from Wheaton College, and earned a master’s degree from the University of Bridgeport.
During her tenure as WAC president, the organization restored, improved and maintained Greens Farms Elementary School as a gallery and home for artists. When the town needed the school again, the Arts Center moved to Riverside Avenue, where her participation continued. The WAC was the forerunner of what is now MoCA CT.
Joyce continued her interest in painting while also pursuing sailing and boating. She and her husband David were a familiar sight on Long Island Sound in the sloop Bluejacket and trawler Rambler.
An active member of Saugatuck Harbor Yacht Club, she was also in the Power Squadron. She won a citation for the high number of boats she inspected on their behalf.
She was an avid gardener, and took pride in the restoration and maintenance of her pre-war International style house. Her paintings, especially cloudscapes, are hung with pride by family and friends, there and in other homes.
Married for 66 years, she is survived by her husband; children John of Stratford, Jennifer Van de Graaf (Stephen) of New Canaan (Stephen) and Sarah Marcotte (James) of Los Angeles, and grandchildren Gwen, Owen, Sarah and Rowan.
The family is deeply grateful to her caregivers Jackie Brown and Judith Bryan, who showed empathy and love.
A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held on Saturday, December 14 (10:30 a.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Westport). The service will be livestreamed.
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Former Westport Emergency Medical Technician Toni Cribari died peacefully on November 26 in Hartford. She was 80.
The Hartford native worked in many roles throughout her life, from waitress and Norwalk Hospital pharmaceutical technician, to EMT.
But, family says, “perhaps her most cherished role was nanny, caring for and nurturing countless children whom she loved as if they were her own.”
An avid music fan, she was known for her “independent spirit, sense of humor, and beauty both inside and out.”
Toni is survived by her husband Ed; son Justin (Morgan), and granddaughter Ophelia. She was predeceased by her sister Denise, and daughters Chitra and Tara.
A graveside service will be held Monday (December 9, 11:00 a.m., Assumption Cemetery). Click here to leave online condolences.
A reminder: For Thanksgiving, “06880” wants to share some of the things you — our readers — are thankful for.
Please email 06880blog@gmail.com today. Let us know what you’re thankful for this year. (NOTE: Do not post your thanks in the Comments section; just email them to us.)
Big or small; concrete or abstract; individually or as a family; here in town or anywhere else — we want to hear from you. And please let us know whether we can use your name, or if you prefer anonymity.
We’ll post your thankful responses — with our thanks — soon.
A 1941 Saturday Evening Post cover, by Westport artist Stevan Dohanos — 83 years ago.
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A relatively new, but very fun tradition, continues: The Wakeman Town Farm holiday tree lighting takes place December 6 (4:30 p.m.).
The family event includes cookies, treats and hot chocolate courtesy of The Porch and Sweet P Bakery, and a bonfire.
The tree will be lit by 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Bill Constantino, a Wakeman family member.
The tree lighting is also a chance to give back. WTF will collect “pre-loved” Legos, as a part of Sustainable Westport’s project.
There”s a collection too of unwrapped toys for the annual Al’s Angels drive. And members of Staples’ AWARE organization are raising money for women and teens in need, through a bake sale.
But 159 Main — the successor to Rye Ridge Deli, which took over from Oscar’s — posted a note on its door saying, “We are closing for a few days to carry out necessary upgrades.
“It is our priority to continue to serve you in the best possible way during this time. We will be reachable through our platforms.”
A QR code brought up a form to submit an email address. A phone number was also listed, but a call to it went unanswered.
Eric Bosch writes: “If you walk along the cement sidewalk toward the canons on Compo’s South Beach, you can now see the remnants of a very old groin/jetty coming up out of the sand.
“These are easily seen at Burying Hill Beach, where there are 3 or 4 rows of them (they stick 4-8 inches above the sand there). Beach groins help deposit sands onto the beach, preventing erosion.
“The one in this photo clearly did its job for years, as it was completely covered up until recently. My guess is that the 8.8-foot exceptionally high tides that we just experienced with the full moon exposed this when the waters receded.”
Newly exposed groin/jetty at Compo Beach. (Photo/Eric Bosch)
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Another new appearance: this rock, painted recently on Easton Road between Coleytown Road and North Avenue.
(Photo/Sandy Rothenberg)
If you know the back story, click “Comments” below. If you dont: It will remain just another Westport mystery.
Westporter Joanie Gottlieb builds, redesigns and customizes dollhouses.
Joanie Gottlieb with her farmhouse dollhouse …
… and the interior.
And similar structures.
Right now, she’s working on a commission from a Manhattan client. He wanted a townhouse — not a dollhouse — complete with a rooftop bar and lounge, oirginal paintings, and a music room with a keyboard, guitar, amps and drums.
The music room, in Joanie Gottlieb’s “townhouse.”
Each one takes 2 months to complete. For more information, email joaniegottlieb52@gmail.com. (Hat tip: Toni Simonetti)
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Longtime Westport resident Mary Becker died last Wednesday, at home. She was 95.
The New York City native attended Sarah Lawrence College. She met her future husband Lester at a resort hotel in the Catskills. They married in 1951, and moved to Westport in 1963.
After raising 2 children, Mary turned her passion for global travel into a career. She spent many years as a travel agent.
Mary was an avid and skilled knitter, creating works and gifts that were treasured by family and friends. She also had a deep love for her garden, and for music, theatre and reading. She also doted on a long line of dogs and cats, the last of which, Archie, stayed curled up on her bed through her final days.
Mary was deeply involved in her children’s lives. She was well known and loved by the many classmates and friends who came through their home over the years, and she maintained close relationships with many throughout her life.
She is survived by her husband of almost 73 years; daughter Ann Moore of New York City; son Michael (Christine) of Los Angeles; sister Eve Lubin of Los Angeles and grandson Ellis Becker of Madison, Wisconsin.
Her family says, “Mary’s life was marked by courage and compassion, and in both life and death, she faced each moment with grace and supreme bravery. Her infectious energy, positivity and joy were an inspiration to all who knew her.”
A gathering for family and friends will be held at a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mary’s honor to either rhe Westport Country Playhouse or the Pet Animal Welfare Society.
Mary Becker
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As birds fly south for the winter, we see empty nests all around town.
Wasps don’t migrate. But they too leave empty nests.
Johanna Keyser Rossi spotted this one — today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — at the YMCA.
And finally … “Alice’s Restaurant” — Arlo Guthrie’s meandering, absurd — and pretty much true — song about littering, the police and the military draft has been a Thanksgiving staple since its release in 1967.
That’s because the events happened — the true ones, anyone — at a Thanksgiving dinner attended by (among others) Guthrie, a student at the Stockbridge School (and son of Woody), where Alice Brock was a librarian.
Alice — who also owned a restaurant (called not Alice’s, but the Back Room (along with a deconsecrated church) — died last Thursday, in Wellfleet, Massachusetts.
Fittingly, it was a week before Thanksgiving. She was 83, and suffered from chronic pulmonary obstructive disease. Click here for a full obituary.
(You can get anything you want on “06880.” Well, so long as there’s a Westport hook. Except for our song of the day. That’s random. You can also click here to support this hyper-local blog. We thank you!)
The smoky odor that pervaded much of Westport was due to a wildfire.
In Great Barrington, Massachusetts.
Smoke from the Berkshires drifted southward, then hung around.
Fire Marshal Terry Dunn says, “Smoke in the air is a stark reminder of how quickly fires can spread under the right conditions. We urge all residents to remain diligent, and respect the outdoor burning ban to keep our community safe.”
As seen from Sherwood Island State Park, smoke from Massachusetts lingers over Cockenoe Island. (Photo/Chris Swan)
They were named Counry Music Association Vocal Group of the Year for the 7th time. That beats Little Big Town’s 6 awards.
Old Dominion’s lead guitarist, Brad Tursi, is a 1997 Staples High School graduate (and former soccer star). Last month, he wowed a sell-out Levitt Pavilion crowd last month, as a solo artist with a different backup band.
Old Dominion, at last night’s Country Music Association awards. Westport native Brad Tursi is at far left. (Hat tip and photo/Tricia Summers)
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The other day, “06880” reported on harsh, homemade and very un-neighborly sign posted by a Fillow Street resident.
She was (rightly) upset by very-unneighborly neighbors who neglected to pick up the dog poop deposited on her lawn.
I think she reads “06880.” It’s been replaced by this much smaller, more reasonable, and decidedly neighborly one:
The largest crowd ever turned out for last night’s Artists Collective of Westport show opening, at the Westport Country Playhouse’s Sheffer Barn.
All works — over 100, in a wide variety of styles, genres and materials — are available for purchase. And all are 12″ x 12″, making them easy to ship.
The show runs through Sunday, November 24 (noon to 4 p.m., Sheffer Barn at Westport Country Playhouse).
Nina Bentley is one of the many artists whose 12×12 work is on display at the Westport Country Playhouse’s Sheffer Barn. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
Alisan Porter (Staples High School Class of 1999) and Drew McKeon (SHS ’00) are hitting the road in New England this week, support Alisan’s new record, “The Ride.”
The longtime friends co-wrote the single “Nothing’s Broken,” which Drew produced in his “tiny Manhattan apartment bedroom,” his parents’ Westport basement, and his friend Tim Walsh’s home studio in Black Rock.
Drew finished with vocal tracking at Charlie Chaplin’s old Hollywood lot.
Drew and Alison perform a set of Alisan’s original music spanning her career — including selections from her winning season on NBC’s “The Voice” — this Saturday (November 23) at the intimate Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center in Old Saybrook. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Other performances include The Cut in Gloucester, Massachusetts (November 30), the Music Hall Lounge in Portsmouth, New Hampshire (December 2), and Boston’s City Winery (December 4).
Alisan Porter and Drew McKeon.
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Speaking of Staples alumni entertainers: “The Good Whale” — a new 6-episode New York Times podcast about “Free Willy” orca star Keiko, once the cameras stopped rolling — includes an original song by Staples High School graduate Justin Paul, and his writing partner Benj Pasek.
They’ve already won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony. Can whatever award is given for podcast music far behind? (Hat tip: Ann Humphrey)
Speaking of music: Weston High School junior Owen Daniel has just released his debut single.
“Fear of Losing You — the first song he ever wrote — was produced at Norwalk’s Factory Underground Studio. It is available on all streaming outlets. Click here to listen and download.
More entertainment news: This Sunday (November 24, 7 p.m., Fairfield Theatre Company), Westporter Hannah Levin (Greens Farms Academy Class of 2015) screens her short film, “Golden Child,” as part of the FTC Short Film Festival.
The plot: a young woman is reunited with her childhood friend at a pool party, and reckons with the fact that he used to pee on her when they were kids.
Former Staples High School football star Willard “Buz” Leavitt — part of the 1964 backfield that included Bill During, John Bolger and Jack Forehand — died on November 13. He was 77, and lived in Blythewood, South Carolina.
Buz moved from Burnt Hills, New York to Westport as a junior. After his stellar Staples seasons, he headed to Wake Forest University. He earned ACC Offensive Player of the Week mention, and graduated in 1970.
He met his wife Anne there. They married in 1969, and were together for 55 years.
Buz spent 32 years with Procter & Gamble in Charlotte, as sales manager and special events director.
For spent decades coaching youth sports, and was admired by players and parents alike.
Buz is survived by his wife Anne; sons Chris (Darla) of Greenville, South Carolina, Charley (Heather) of Charlotte, and Courtney (Shelley) of Blythewood; brother Scott (Bridget), of Charlotte; sister Susan Pittman, of Roswell, Georgia, and grandchildren Riley, Zoe, Lila, Ian, Banks, Ella Chase, Eliza and Olivia.
A service to celebrate his life will be on November 22 (1 p.m.), at the Clubhouse at Cobblestone Park in Blythewood.
In Lieu of flowers, a gift in Buz’s memory can be made to Baby Bundles, a Charlotte nonprofit that provides essential baby items to families in need.
Longtime Westport realtor Margherita (Marj) Basili died last Friday. She was 94, and also lived in Palatka, Florida.
The New Haven native worked her way through New York University, and graduated with a degree in business.
She worked as a management consultant, then worked for the Australian Consolidated Press in New York.
In 1957 Marj moved to Naples, Italy, where she supported the 6th Fleet as a buyer and merchandising manager in the Naval Postal Exchange (PX).
She married in Italy, then and returned to the US in 1960 to start a family. She taugh in Milford and Westport elementary schools.
By 1969, a single mother of 3 young boys, she shifted into commercial and residential real estate
Her family says, “Marj curated a large group of friends, knitted together by her interests in life and her empathetic approach to others. She reveled in helping others. No problem was insurmountable to her.”
She survived by her sons, Giuseppe (Dean) of Norman, Oklahoma, Gianfranco (Allison) of St. Augustine, Florida, and Roberto (Sara) of Bergen, Norway, granddaughters Alexandra Basili Gunther (Ben) and Johanne, and grandsons Benjamin and Filip.
At Marj’s request, no funeral or memorial service will be held.
And finally … in honor (or at least recognition) of yesterday’s visit from Great Barrington:
(Many “06880” readers contacted us yesterday, wondering about the smoky smell. We’re glad the town turns to us. But we rely on your support to keep us going. Please click here to help. Thanks!)
Winnie Balboni — a longtime Westporter, whose eye for Westport’s beauty was matched only by her enthusiasm for it — died September 24. She was 101.
Hope Hageman offers this obituary:
Born in Closter, New Jersey on April 16, 1923, Winnie was educated at the American International College in Springfield, Massachusetts. Shortly thereafter she married US Air Force Major Chester George Williams, and gave birth to sons Jeffrey, John and Jason.
She and Major Williams divorced in 1954. He died two years later.
For a time she was a single parent, living with her parents in Springfield.
Winnie married Anthony “Tony” Balboni, a pilot for United Airlines, in 1956, the year that she moved to Westport.
She soon became a mainstay of the Westport Garden Club. She played a major role in the effort to transform landfill on Imperial Avenue into Grace Salmon Park, including persuading the town to fund it.
Winnie Balboni at Grace Salmon Park.
She was the long-time editor of the Garden Club newsletter, and a tireless volunteer in the organization’s many projects. In 2006 she received an award from the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut for her work.
She established Westport’s first Tree Board, which she served on for many years.
One of Winnie’s favorite spots was Sherwood Island State Park. Through her friendship with the park superintendent, forged during her afternoon rambles there, she learned that Connecticut ranked 50th in the nation in per capita expenditure on state parks.
With guidance from the Friends of Connecticut State Parks, Winnie formed a board of directors, developed a mission statement and by-laws, and almost singlehandedly founded the Friends of Sherwood Island.
A vibrant non-profit today, it has provided many enhancements over the past 25 years.
Winnie Balboni (far left) with her 2006 Connecticut Federated Garden Clubs award. (Photo courtesy of “A History of the Westport Garden Club 1924-2014,” by Louise Demakis)
In her mid-60s Winnie joined the Westport League of Woman Voters, and quickly became a board member. She organized the group’s first Memorial Day parade marchers. The sashes and suffragist outfits worn in the parade are lasting reminders of Winnie’s vision.
Her obituary calls Winnie “funny and feisty, generous to a fault, endlessly energetic, always curious and fiercely outspoken.
“She was an outdoorswoman, a tireless volunteer, a quilter, a seamstress, a mentor, a leader who believed that homemade baked goods were key to a successful and well-attended meeting.
“She hiked the Appalachian Trail in manageable portions whenever she could, she started the Jolly Gardeners to engage youngsters in outdoor work, she wrote letters regularly to every friend she ever had, she was committed to mental health advocacy and research at both state and local levels, she was a presence, and not always a silent one, at innumerable yown meetings.
Winnie Balboni, with a cloth bag. In 2008, before Westport’s Representative Town Meeting voted to ban the use of plastic bags — the first municipality east of the Mississippi River to do so — 85-year-old Winnie made a ringing speech urging it to do so.
“But her true and larger legacy now lies in the hearts and memories of countless friends who were fortunate enough to experience her warmth, humor and generosity at close range.”
Winnie was predeceased by her son Jeffrey, in 2007. She is survived by her sons Jason Williams of Cambridge, Massachusetts and John Williams of Richmond, Virginia, her devoted caregivers for the past 5 years; John’s wife Pamela Susan King, and “an incredibly long list of good friends.”
(Click here for an “06880” story, honoring Winnie Balboni on her 100th birthday.)
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