Russell Blair — who lived nearly all his life in Westport, and whose decades of volunteerism here included co-founding the Emergency Medical Service, and work on nearly every school building committee — died peacefully at his longtime home, surrounded by his family, on August 31. He was 96.
The Cincinnati native moved to Westport as a young boy. He spent many happy summers in the boat basin at Compo Beach, and sailing on Long Island Sound.
Russ attended Admiral Billard Academy in New London and the US Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York, earning his engineering degree in 1951.
He served on the USS Allagash for 3 years, rising to lieutenant before transferring to the Navy Retired Reserve.
Russ worked as an engineer for several companies before joining Slickbar in 1969. He became president in 1987, a position he held until retiring in 2001.
Russ’s devotion to community service began in high school during World War II, when he joined the civil defense fire crew.
Russ Blair
In Westport he gave generously of his time and talents, serving with the Volunteer Fire Department, co-founding Westport Emergency Medical Service, contributing to building committees that touched nearly every school in town — including the “new” Staples High in 2005 — and lending his care to various town and church restoration efforts.
Russ also spent 27 years in the Norwalk Hospital Emergency Department as an Emergency Medical Technician, offering steady hands and a compassionate heart. He received numerous awards, all of them with humility and grace.
Russ loved to repair, tinker and fix things. He always had a spare part, just waiting for its time to mend a broken object or machine.
Russ and his wife Isabel were married for 74 years. They shared a love for family, Westport, and traveling around the world.
He is survived by his wife Isabel; children Tripp (Nancy), DG (Bruce) and Laura; grandchildren Heather (Jamie), Lily (Andrew) Kate (Tim), and Maria (Travis). and great grandchildren Natalie, Christopher, Emily, Maddie, Oliver, Ryan, Drew, and Isabel
A celebration of life will be held October 25 (3 p.m.) at the Saugatuck Congregational Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy, or a local charity of your choice.
The multinational retailer of beauty and personal care products — famous for letting customers test products before buying — will move into “Elm & Main” (formerly known as Brooks Corner) downtown.
They’ll open at the end of 2027 or early 2028. A mere 2 years from now.
Not the Westport store. This Sephora is on 5th Avenue in New York.
=================================================
It’s (almost) that time of year.
Starting next Wednesday (October 1), dogs are allowed back on Compo Beach.
With a few caveats.
They are prohibited from the pavilion, playground and walkways.
All dogs must be leashed everywhere, except in the off-leash area of south of the pavilion (which includes South Beach).
You are required by law (and common decency) to pick up your dog’s poop.
The dogs-at-the-beach regulations are in effect through March 31. Violators can be fined $77.
And remember: Dogs are not permitted on town athletic fields or playgrounds at any time. They are welcome — leashed — in surrounding areas.
Happy days are here again! (Photo/Dan Johnson)
=================================================
Speaking of dogs: Uh-oh. Looks like we missed National Dogs in Politics Day. It was Tuesday.
The annual event commemorates the September 23, 1952 speech by Richard Nixon. Running for vice president with Dwight Eisenhower, he defended himself in a speech against accusations of campaign finance wrongdoing by mentioning his cocker spaniel, Checkers.
Westport’s “animal muse” Cat Malkin, and her dog Yogi Bear, did not forget the day. They visited a couple of politicians — from both parties — and he released a statement.
Yogi Bear said: “I’m not here for your votes. I’m here to spread love, kindness, and fuzziness wherever I go, especially if there’s a treat involved!
“As we go into the campaign season, let’s make Westport the kindest (and most treat-filled) town in the land! I invite you to join us, dogs, as we come together to unite the country in love, kindness, and the right to bark.”
Yogi Bear with Republican 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker …
… and Democratic 1st selectman candidate Kevin Christie. (Photos/Cat Malkin)
=================================================
A few tickets remain — but probably not for long — for the Westport Country Playhouse’s fundraiser, honoring Nathan Lane, on Saturday, October 4.
Broadway talents who have appeared with the star, including host Danny Burstein, will celebrate his career.
They will also salute productions that have been staged at the Playhouse in the 95 seasons since its founding in 1931.
Anne Keefe, former Playhouse co-artistic director, will be feted too. She’ll receive the 2025 Playhouse Leadership Award.
Lane and Keefe are longtime friends — and friends of the WCP.
The 7 p.m. curtain includes a live auction, and a 9 p.m. after-party in the Lucille Lortel White Barn. The pre-show reception is already sold out.
For tickets and more information, click here or call 203-227-4177.
Nathan Lane
=================================================
Peter Greenberg — America’s premier travel news journalist, an Emmy Award-winning investigative investigative reporter and producer, who has appeared on every major TV network and in every national publication — brought his insights and experience to the Westport Library last night.
The Y’s Men of Westport-Weston hosted the event, which drew a crowd of hundreds. He was joined in conversation by longtime friend and fellow world traveler Allen Swerdlowe, a Y’s Men member.
Peter Greenberg (left) and Allen Swerdlowe, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Susan Garment)
Before the talk Robin Tauck hosted a small dinner for Greenberg, at nearby Massi Co restaurant. A 3rd-generation member of the family whose name is synonymous with global travel, she has known Greenberg for decades, and been on industry panels and at conferences with him around the world.
TAP Strength is all about helping people feel more confident and capable in their bodies. A new program supports an important group: neurodivergent teens and young adults.
The next event in their “Effortless Effort” speaker series is October 14 (6 to 7 p.m., 180 Post Road East). at its Post Road East studio. It’s a conversation between TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Chelsea Elkind and Lauren Rosenblum, founders of Westport-based NeuroMind. They’ve helped TAP design a program that is inclusive, supportive, and grounded in real-world needs.
The 6th annual (and always popular) Artists Collective of Westport trunk show is October 5 (11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Jesup Green lower parking lot by the Westport Library).
More than 30 diverse artists will display their work — in and around their cars. The day includes live music, and food from Gruel Britannia.
Earlier this year, he Westport Community Theater presented “Words from the Front Lines” at Town Hall.
Many Westporters learned about it the show — a multi-media presentation of the correspondences of real people, in real time, affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine — too late to attend.
The Westport-Weston Probate Court is mourning the death of former chief clerk Shirley DeLuca. She died September 13 at Norwalk Hospital, of natural causes. She was 89.
Probate Court Judge Lisa Wexler says: “Shirley will be remembered by all who knew her as loyal, devoted, bright, hardworking and kind.
“She had unfailing patience for the countless bereaved and vulnerable people who entered Probate Court. Taking a seat by Shirley’s desk, one could pour out one’s heart to Shirley, and she would promptly help solve the problem.
“Generations of local practitioners learned their craft from Shirley, including me. For over 30 years Shirley served our community with love, humility and grace.”
She is survived by her husband Harold and son Glenn. She was predeceased by her son Harold III.
Services are private. Condolences may be sent to Westport- Weston Probate Court, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880. All letters will be forwarded to the family.
Shirley DeLuca
=================================================
Today’s “06880” feature photo is one of our coolest ever.
And most colorful.
Clarence Hayes captured this bumblebee, sipping goldenrod nectar.
And finally … Olivia Newton-John was born today, 77 years ago. The highest-selling Australian female artist of all time died in 2022, after battling breast cancer.
Last weekend, Westporters enjoyed lobster, from the Westport Rotary Club.
Next month it’s wine, with Westport Sunrise Rotary.
The 34th annual edition of “Westport Uncorked” — an evening of great food and drink, and plenty of community spirit — is set for October 16 (6 to 9 p.m., the Inn at Longshore).
One hundred sustainable and organic wines, curated by Cory D’Addario of The Fine Wine Company of Westport, are available for tasting, with expert advice from the distributors who will serve them.
Exclusive wines can be ordered at the event. Non-alcoholic beverages and hors d’oeuvres are also on the menu.
A few new names have been added to Westoberfest — the craft beer and family festival set for October 4 (12 to 6 p.m., Elm Street downtown).
New this year, Castle Wine & Spirits joins the tasting area as sommeliers.
Children enjoy face painting, pumpkin decorating, and flower crown making, and a new petting zoo hosted by Kelly’s Kids.
Food choices range from traditional German fare by Colossal Kielbasa, to Haven Hot Chicken, Paradise Island Food, COBS Bread, Sushi Jin and LemonNate’s.
Musical entertainment comes from Dan Tressler and One Bad Oyster. CBS News weather anchor (and Westport resident) Lonnie Quinn emcees the crowd-favorite hot dog eating contest.
Speaking of downtown: There’s a new sculpture at Sconset Square.
(Photo/Sal Liccione)
Well, not exactly new.
David Waldman bought “Trapped Ball,” by sculptor Dale Rogers, 20 years ago at the Westport Arts Festival.
The real estate developer placed it in a shopping center he owns in Avon. It’s been there ever since.
But a new tenant needed the space, for an outdoor dining area.
So Waldman brought it back “home.” He looked at several options, and decided the small shopping plaza — with plenty of drivers stopping in front, at the Myrtle Avenue light — was the best site.
Also downtown: Eleish Van Breems Home is hosting a “Soul of Scandinavian Design” event at their Main Street flagship location, on October 9. The event features insights into Nordic principles behind furniture, textiles, glass and pottery, from Steele Marcoux and Scandinavian designers flying in for the day.
Also on tap: the opening of EVB’s Fika bar, with ceramist Agneta Livijn.
Agneta Livijn’s design.
================================================
Another downtown event: Westport Book Shop hosts Staples High School graduate Bruce Lawder for a hours poetry and short story reading this Friday (September 26, 6 to 7:30 p.m.).
He’ll share poems from his latest collection, “Breakwater Rock” — deeply connected to Westport — and stories from his book of short fiction, “Dwarf Stories.”
Saturday’s MoCA CT “Endless Summer” fundraiser and friend-raiser brought the beach indoors Saturday night. 150 guests enjoyed art, music and community, around the backdrop of Ted Papageorge’s “At the Beach” photo exhibit.
One special highlight was a major contribution in support of the museum’s outreach to underserved communities.
From left: Deborah Murtagh, MoCA CT past president; William Felton, gala co-chair Rita Marcocci; 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker; gala co-chair Keara Williams; Pamela Hovland, acting executive director. (Photo/Lewis Derogene)
=================================================
Longtime Westport resident and civic volunteer Diane Cady died peacefully on September 17 in Boulder. She was 91.
The California native attended College of Marin, then earned a master’s degree in social work at Fordham University.
In Westport, Diane served with the Westport Young Woman’s League and Westport Rotary Club.
She was elected to the Representative Town Meeting (RTM), then was appointed to the Westport Tree Board.
Diane had a special place in her heart for dogs, particularly
Gordon setters. She enjoyed showing them, with a spirit of
competition and camaraderie.
She was predeceased by her brother, Roderick Duncan. She is survived by her children Christopher, Stephen and Robin MacLaughlin, and 5 grandchildren.
Diane Cady
===============================================
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo appears just 64 days before Thanksgiving.
And finally … in honor of the Sunrise Rotary Club’s “Westport Uncorked” event (story above):
(If you can’t find something to do in Westport, you’re not trying. Or you’re not reading “06880.” If you learn about our town — and town events — on this blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Now she is backing the school’s housing vision. She pledged $15 million to name one of the new undergraduate residence halls.
The 5-story Shonda Rhimes Hall is both the first Dartmouth building named for a woman, and the first named for a Black alum. It opens in 2028. (Hat tip: Andrea Cross)
Shonda Rhimes, and her new dorm. (Rendering by Elkus Manfredi Architects; photo courtesy of Shondaland)
=================================================
This Saturday’s Staples-Fairfield Warde boys soccer game will be a great one.
And not just because the Wreckers and Mustangs are 2 of the top teams in the FCIAC.
After superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice and the Board of Education refused to renew the contracts of Staples head coach Russell Oost-Lievense and staff member Chris O’Dell, they were quickly hired as Warde assistants. They’ve been embraced by the players, athletic department and administrators.
O’Dell and Oost-Lievense are very happy in Fairfield. But they still love the Westport program, where both were high school captains (in 1994 and 2007, respectively).
So they’ve made Saturday’s 1 p.m. match at Warde’s Tetreau Field into not an us-against-them affair, but a we’re-all-in-this-together one. It’s called the “Gold Game.”
Led by the Warde parents, working with Staples parents, players on both teams have purchased game day socks, to raise funds to fight pediatric cancer through LivFree.
Players on the 2 squads are also soliciting donations of prizes. They’ll be used for a “Goals for Gold” penalty kick event for youth players, before and after the game.
There’s much more on Saturday, including giveaways — plus, of course, a great game.
Oh, yeah: Why is the theme “gold”? Supporters of both teams are encouraged to wear that color — not Staples blue, or Mustang red.
We — and they — are all in this together.
===============================================
You never know what you’ll find on “06880.”
Or what you’ll see when “06880” wanders around town.
The other day, I was downtown with Thomas Samaranayake (@thomas_sam123) — “06880”‘s fantastic social media guru — plus Frank Rosen and Mark Sogofsky, longtime News 12 producers who have started their own video company.
They offered to create an Instagram “donate to ‘06880’ video for (and with) me. (Many desktop, laptop and mobile users know this blog relies on reader support; most who follow us on social media — @06880danwoog — don’t.)
The Wall Street Journal has just introduced one of the most colorful to its readers.
The home, on Beachside Common above Burying Hill Beach, belongs to biotech entrepreneur/investor/scientist Alan Walton and his wife Elenor.
They bought the 1970s contemporary in 2000 for $6.3 million. It was expanded and “reimagined” in the 1990s — for $13 million.
The exterior …
With its floating staircase, periscope skylights, rainbow glazing purple carpet — and a 150-foot multicolored tile pathway that “meanders” through the house — it’s not for everyone. (Several online commenters made that quite clear.)
Alan died in 2015. Elenor died this past February. The couple was a much-admired part of their tight-knit neighborhood.
In her will, Elenor told her children to sell the property.
“06880” has reported on Saturday’s very successful LobsterFest. The Westport Rotary Club raised about $400,000 for a variety of non-profits, in Fairfield County and abroad.
Here’s another part of the story that’s worth telling.
CORR — Collective Oyster Recycling & Restoration, a non-profit that organizes a statewide sustainable shell recovery and recycling network, reclaiming shells from restaurants, seafood businesses and events, diverting them from landfills to use in shellfish restoration projects — was at Compo Beach, working hard.
They gathered used oyster shells from the Copps Island raw bar crew, and from festival goers at the waste disposal area.
CORR collected 175 pounds of shells — 7 buckets worth. They will be dumped back into the Sound to create new oyster reefs (baby oyster larvae attach to the old shells). (Hat tip: Hunter Peterson)
=================================================
Golfers are familiar with birdies and eagles at Longshore.
They may be surprised to find a coyote there too.
A pair of hawk-eyed “06880” readers sent photos from the course. Fore!
Enjoying a sand trap … (Photo/Robert Crowley)
… and at the 4th hole … (Photo/Tim Steele)
… and heading toward the next one. (Photo/Colin Livingston)
Faherty celebrates its first year at 26 Main Street with a “Day of Gratitude + Good Vibes.”
They’ll showcase their new fall; give away free totes — and donate 10% to Sweet P Bakery, the company owned by Westporters Bill and Andrea Pecoriello that trains and employs people with disabilities.
=================================================
Jazz at the Post’s “September Piano Madness” ends this Thursday (September 25; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7).
Azerbaijan pianist Amina Figarova returns to VFW Post 399. Last year’s performance of “Suite for Africa” during her CD release tour, with her sextet and the Matsiko World Orphan Choir, was stellar.
She’ll be joined by flutist Bart Platteau, trumpeter Josh Bruneau, bassist Mark Lewandowski, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Longtime Westport resident Elaine Levy died peacefully on Sunday. She was 86, and had battled cancer.
The University of Pittsburgh graduate had a lifelong love of learning.
She met her future husband, Roy Levy, on Nantucket. They moved to Westport in the early 1960s, and raised a family here.
Elaine also built a career in Westport’s retail world, working in fashion and furniture.
She was known for her love of tennis, vibrant social life, and and joy in entertaining and dining out.
Elaine was predeceased by her husband, and by her sister Nina Fingerhood. She is survived by her daughter, Annie (Sam Vail), son Joshua, and grandchildren Roy and Graceanne Vail.
A private celebration of her life will be held September 26. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, designated for small cell lung cancer research.
Sonny Curtis — a singer-songwriter who performed with Buddy Holly (and was his pallbearer), opened for Elvis Presley and wrote hits like “I Fought the Law” (plus the theme song for “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” which he also sang) — died Friday in Nashville. He was 88.
And finally … in honor of Ryan Inzero, the amazing “sign spinner” in the “06880” donation story above:
(Our “06880” fingers are tired, from all this Roundup typing. But we do it for you! If you enjoy, learn from or just kinda like our hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Shonda Rhimes, Soccer Coaches, Sign Spinner …
Posted onSeptember 20, 2025|Comments Off on Roundup: Crafts, Cards, Kids …
CraftWestport — the annual Westport Young Woman’s League fundraiser that traditionally kicks off the holiday season — returns to the Staples High School fieldhouse this year, with new dates.
Over 165 artists and makers will show their wares on December 6 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and December 7 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Called “the longest-running indoor fine craft festival in Connecticut,” it includes handmade works in jewelry, fashion, home decor, ceramics, furniture, photography and art. Click here for details.
================================================
Staples juniors Jonah Bomback, Peter Klopfer and Asher Vengrow — passionate athletes and young entrepreneurs — have combined their love for trading cards with a desire to make a difference.
Their business, Cardz Against Cancer, is about more than buying, selling and collecting sports cards. The boys donate 50% of all proceeds to the fight against childhood cancers, through Yale Smilow Cancer Hospital.
Since launching in August, they have raised $500 from card sales, and several thousand dollars through a direct donation link on their website.
Last weekend, the trio participated in the Northeast Sports Card Expo at Chelsea Piers in Stamford. They are available for private events too.
The curtain rises on the Westport Country Playhouse children’s education program, Playhouse Playmakers, on October 12.
The 6-week program is for grades 6-8. Students will create an original play — including writing, acting, rehearsing — and production, culminating with a performance on the Playhouse stage for family and friends.
Playhouse Playmakers runs 7 Sundays, through November 23 (1 to 4 p.m.).
The fee of $575 including technical rehearsal, materials, and 4 tickets to the performance. Scholarships are available, including transportation reimbursement.
The Staples boys varsity golf team set a record on Thursday, shooting 5 under par.
Charlie Curran, Philip Sullivan, Chris Taylor and Gus Palmer each contributed to a combined score of 135.
The team remains undefeated, and at the top of the FCIAC league. Individually, both Palmer and Sullivan are ranked top 10 in the FCIAC. Palmer is. Sullivan 7th.
From left: Jordan Benaderet, Philip Sullivan, Gus Palmer, Chris Taylor, Lukas Snow, Charlie Curran.
The recent death of Robert Redford has brought a flood of memories of his friendship with Paul Newman.
Bill Dedman sends along a 2015 interview with Redford. At the 2:34 mark, he tells a long, funny tale about the practical jokes he and Newman played on each other, when both lived in Westport. Click here or below to see.
The history of agriculture, manufacturing and textile production in this area during the 19th and early 20th centuries is on display in a new interactive exhibit, “Weston at Work,” at the Weston History & Culture Center.
Children can card wool, weave on a loom, use a rope and pulley to raise a hay bale, and more. The exhibit includes hands-on activities, rare tools, farming implements, a working loom and historic images.
It highlights the many people — including immigrants, African Americans, women and children who helped put Weston to work.
The opening is October 5 (1 to 4 p.m.). Admission is free; donations are welcome.
“Weston at Work” is then open every Thursday (1 to 4 p.m.) and Sundays, November 2 and December 7 (1 to 4 p.m.). $5 for adults, $3 for children 5 – 17, free for members and children 4 and under.
=================================================
Another bobcat sighting. This one was Thursday, in the Old Road area:
On Wednesday, noted constitutional scholar and Yale professor Akhil Reed Amar spoke to a packed Westport Library crowd about his new book “Born Equal: Remaking America’s Constitution.”
After his remarks, he chatted with Staples We the People teacher Suzanne Kammerman. The professor was impressed to hear the school placed 8th in the nation at last year’s competition last year.
Kammerman hopes to have Amar speak to her class later this year.
Suzanne Kammerman and Professor Akhil Reed Amar. (Hat tip and photo/Danielle Dobin)
=================================================
Speaking of Staples: The Institution Saint Joseph in Le Havre, France has invited the high school to the Normandy International Youth Leadership Summit in November. Delegates are high performing students interested in world affairs.
Josephine Caricato, Ignacy Nieweglowski and Jori Altman will join peers from around the world, in the international event.
From left: Josephine Caricato, Ignacy Nieweglowski, Jori Altman.
Wells Preston — a member of Staples High School’s Class of 2004 — died last month. He was 40 years old.
His love of the outdoors began at Camp Keewaydin in Canada. In high school he honed his skills on NOLS trips in the Cascade Range. He returned as an adult, to summit its highest peaks.
Wells learned to sail at Longshore Sailing School, then raced at Tabor Academy. He later taught sailing and kiteboarding.
He studied creative writing, literature and religion at Eckerd College. He taught English at a St. Petersburg, Florida high school, where he met his future wife Christine Lupo.
They moved to Seattle in 2010, lured by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Four years later they relocated to Portland.
They roamed far and wide in a camper van, from Alberta to Baja Mexico. They traveled over 30,000 miles in 2 years, visiting every national park west of the Rockies.
His family says, “In his photos -– as in the stories he shared of hiking, climbing, skiing, fishing, kiteboarding, and simply breathing the air in these majestic places –- Wells made you feel his reverence for nature and the spirituality it stirred in him.”
He was also an excellent cook.
Wells is survived by his wife Chrissy; sisters Regan and Lilly; brothers-in-law Jordan, Nik and James; sisters-in-law Meghan and Sally, and 6 nieces.
And finally … on this date in 1973, Jim Croce and 5 other people were killed when their light aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff in Louisiana.
(Where else but “06880” can you read about upcoming events and Westport’s youth, and remember Robert Redford and Jim Croce — all in one place. So please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
More wood: Westport’s Tree Board is ready to welcome October.
Or, as they call it, “Oaktober.”
Their annual celebration by that name is set for Saturday, O(ak)ctober 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Jesup Green.
They’ll hand out oak tubelings. Kids can get their faces painted, paint pumpkins, and meet some Earthplace creatures. Halloween costumes are welcome.
The event is sponsored by the Westport Book Shop and Earthplace.
Oaktober, 2024: Tree Board members Dick Stein (left) and Ed Picard.
=================================================
Cancer has touched Ella Cohen and Charlotte Booth’s families.
But the Staples High School seniors don’t sit around and mourn.
They created Cuddles for Courage. The mission is to bring comfort and joy to children fighting cancer — one cuddle at a time.
Last year they sponsored a holiday toy drive, collecting gifts for children at Yale New Haven Hospital.
This summer they became a nonprofit.
Now Cuddles for Courage is an official Staples club. They just launched Courage Kits: care packages for kids undergoing cancer treatment.
Each kit includes books and activities, to make treatment days a little easier. They’ll be donated through the club’s new partnership with CT Children’s in Westport.
This winter there will be another toy drive for Yale New Haven Hospital.
Ella and Charlotte invite interested Westporters to follow them on Instagram
(@cuddles.for.courage), and visit cuddlesforcourage.org to get involved.
Wreathing for Community — an initiative of Westport resident Faith Sargent — transforms donated faux florals into handcrafted wreaths and gifts for neighbors, local organizations and community projects.
This year, Faith leads a special effort to create and deliver 50 winter wreaths — one for every front door at Open Doors Shelter’s affordable housing units in Norwalk. Delivery is the first week of December.
Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport will generously sponsor 20 wreaths. But more support is needed to reach the goal of 50.
Residents can get involved in several ways:
Join a Wreath-Making Day at Faith’s home (late October/early November).
Donate a 16-18″ wreath base (grapevine or green pine, available at Amazon, Michael’s or Hobby Lobby).
The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport gets ready for the Jewish High Holidays with a guest preacher.
And a baritone singer.
Rev. Ana Levy-Lyons leads this Sunday’s service (September 21, 10 a.m.)., with a sermon titled “Forgiveness is Divine.” Spencer Reichman is the musical guest.
Currently a rabbinical student in the Jewish Renewal movement, Rev. Levy-Lyons is UU minister. She has served UU congregations for almost 20 years, including 12 as senior minister of First Unitarian Congregational Society in Brooklyn.
Unitarian Universalism is a non-creedal, non-dogmatic religious community open to people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport chalice. (Photo/David Vita)
Also this Sunday: Rev. Dr. Steven Savides leads his first service as Saugatuck Congregational Church’s new settled minister. The special day (September 21) begins at 10 a.m.
Pastor Steven is also an educator and former journalist. He has served UCC congregations in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Ohio.
He earned a Ph.D. in peace studies and theology from Notre Dame University, and a master’s in theological studies from Harvard Divinity School. He was ordained in 2006.
Westport resident Grant Patrick died September 14, of cardiac arrest. He was 70 years old.
The Pittsburgh native graduated from Amherst College, and earned an MBA from Columbia University’s School of International Affairs.
His career in finance included roles at Paine Webber, Whitehead Mann, Citigroup and Napier Park Global Capital, where he worked until his retirement in March.
For over 45 years Grant was a member of the University Glee Club of New York City. He never missed a performance or a post-rehearsal gathering.
His family says, “Grant had no time for pretense, didn’t care much for material things, and never took himself too seriously. He was defined by an uncommon ability to find happiness in life’s quiet corners: tending his garden, making chutney and giving it away, chopping wood, walking his dog Stella, and sitting at Compo Beach with family and friends, debating the topics of the day with his baseball cap pulled low. Perhaps most emphatically, Grant was a man who believed in doing the right thing, even when no one was watching.”
He is survived by his wife Susan Terry, his sons Morgan and Will, and his siblings George and Nancy. A memorial service will be held for family and friends at Christ & Holy Trinity Church on October 4, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Grant’s honor to Music on the Hill CT.
And finally … the porcelain berries above remind us of our favorite Berry:
(You never can tell what you’ll find on “06880.” But that’s part of the fun. If you enjoy our daily Roundups — or anything else in this hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Conventional wisdom is: No one pays attention to political campaigns until after Labor Day.
Well, Labor Day has come and gone. And as Election Day nears, Westport’s League of Women Voters offers a number of opportunities for residents to hear — and question — candidates for a variety of local offices.
Democracy requires informed voters. Mark your calendars for:
“A Conversation with 1st & 2nd Selectperson Candidates”: September 26, 2 p.m., Senior Center.
“Fall Brunch & Design a Sign: Meet Your RTM Candidates”: October 4, 10 a.m. to noon Westport Library. The event includes coffee, donuts, snacks, and art activities to keep kids occupied. Co-sponsored by “06880.”
“A Conversation with Board of Finance Candidates”: October 15, 2 p.m., Senior Center.
“Candidates Debates: Board of Education, Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Assessment Appeals, Board of Finance”: October 27, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library.
Peter Greenberg — one of America’s most popular trave journalists — is journeying to Westport.
The CBS News travel editor and author of “The Travel Detective” will speak at the Westport Library on September 25 (7 p.m.). The event is presented by the Y’s Men’s Travel Group.
Greenberg — whosoe website offers a wide array of resources for travelers and industry insiders — will be in conversation with longtime friend, colleague, worldwide traveler and Y’s Men member Allen Swerdlowe.
Lifelong Westport resident Josephine D’Amico died Thursday at home, surrounded by her family. She was 93.
Josie was born in Saugatuck. She graduated from Staples High School, then attended secretarial school. She became an executive secretary, and opened Darien Secretarial Service.
Josie was known as a great cook and baker.
She is survived by her brothers, Anthony D’Amico and Peter D’Amico; sisters: Eterina D’Amico and Geraldine Stauss, and 13 nieces and nephews. She was pre- deceased by her brothers Edward D’Amico, Rudolph D’Amico and Anthony D’Amico, and sisters Adeline Coviello, Margaret Incerto and Mary Aldrich.
A funeral service is set for September 16 (10 a.m., Assumption Church for a Mass of Christian burial. Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery in Westport. Condolences may be left online. In lieu of flowers, ontributions in memory of Josie may be made to a charity of choice.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo includes one of our favorite things (a monarch butterfly), and one of Westport’s best places (Sherwood Island State Park):
Signs are everywhere in Westport — and I’m not even talking about political ones.
Sandwich boards advertising nearby busineses are overrunning our sidewalks, encroaching on doorways and stairs. (Don’t believe me? Check out 180 Post Road East, across from Casa Me.)
Are they legal?
Kind of.
Planning & Zoning director Michelle Perillie notes that all merchants in non-residential districts are permitted one temporary, free-standing portable sign.
But a zoning permit is required, and it must be renewed annually.
In addition:
Signs cannot be permanently installed in the ground.
Signs must be self-supporting/portable, or hung on the façade of the tenant’s building. Signs cannot be attached to an immovable object like a structure, utility or light pole or fence.
Signs must be no larger than 24 inches wide by 40 inches high as measured from the ground — including borders or supports. A sign hanging on a building façade can be no larger than 24 inches wide by 36 inches high, may only be one-sided, and hung flush to the building. Signs on façades must not be more than 7 feet above the ground, as measured to the top of the sign.
Signs may only be displayed during the hours that the business is open. Signs must be removed when the business is not open.
The sign must be a framed chalk board or eraser board. All wording must be hand drawn.
Signs must be located on the property of the business that has put out the sign. The name of the establishment must appear on or be affixed to the sign. Signs may not be located in parking spaces.
Signs must not interfere with pedestrian traffic or block sight lines for drivers.
Signs may not have lights, be lighted, or have any moving parts
To obtain a permit, merchants must set up an account here. Scaled drawings showing the proposed sign, and a survey or site plan of the property are required.
If approved, an assigned number sticker must be attached to the sign. The annual permit cost is $100.
Questions? Email mperillie@westportct.gov.
This sign probably complies with all the rules — except it does not have the business’ name. It was for Bottlerock, which has since closed. And did they apply for a $100 permit?
================================================
There’s a lot going on at Earthplace.
Beginning tonight.
At 7 p.m. today (Thursday), a Zoom lecture with Q-and-A explores “Remarkable Raptors & Their Highways in the Sky.” As hawks, eagles, falcons and vultures migrate soon, learn more about these birds of prey.
Also ahead:
“Sound Bath with Abbey Chase Yoga” (September 18, 6 to 7:15 p.m.; $35, adult+).
“Plein Air Painting on the Trails” (September 20, 10 a.m. to noon; $10 suggested donation).
“Pick Your Own Bouquet” (September 21, 11 a.m. to noon; $25 members, $35 non-members).
“Woodland Harvest: Foraging in Fall” (September 28, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; $10 members, $12 non-members).
“Woodside Bash” (October 4, 7 to 10 p.m.; open bar, harvest dinner, fire pit, mechanical bull, live entertainment; $125)
Speaking of the environment: “Yes, In My Back Yard!”
That’s the name of the next Aspetuck Land Trust Lunch & Learn webinar.
The September 18 Zoom (12 to 1:30 p.m.). features restoration ecologist Meghan Noe Fellows, discussing Miaywaki-style mini-forests at scale. She’s installed over 150 of them.
Mini-forests are dense plantings of native plants, trees, and shrubs. They increase biodiversity, provide bird and insect habitat, and (ahem) block out unsightly neighbors.
Among the interesting agendas for upcoming meetings:
Parks & Recreation Commission (September 17, 7:30 p.m., Zoom). Topics include the Longshore capital improvement plan (maintenance facility update), and an update on the parks master plan.
The Board of Education’s Finance & Facilities Committee meets today (Thursday, September 11, 11 a.m., Town Hall auditorium). They’ll review the capital improvement plan and proposed project, and hear a status report on the Staples High School auditorium and fieldhouse floor renovations, girls team room, pool scoreboard, and the Staples athletic fields master plan.
Westport Parks & Rec will be involved in upcoming improvements at Longshore and Staples High School.
=================================================
Congratulations to Owen Goldfarb, Nathaniel Greely, Jay Hari, Isabel Jo, Dylan O’Brien, Julian Saraf, Matthew Tybur!
The 7 Staples High School seniors are semifinalists in the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
Nationwide, 16,000 semifinalists — fewer than 1% of the over 1.3 million students who took the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT qualifying exam — will compete for 6,930 National Merit Scholarships, worth more than $26 million.
From left: Isabel Jo, Principal Stafford W. Thomas, Matthew Tybur, Owen Goldfarb, Julian Saraf, Dylan O’Brien, Jay Hari, Nathaniel Greeley.
Westport Police made one custodial arrest between September 3 and 9. A 28-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with operating an unregistered motor vehicle, theft of a marker plate, illegal operation of a motor vehicle without minimum insurance and with a suspended driver’s license, illegal window tinting and violation f probation. He was held on a $61,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 29 citations
Driving while texting: 6
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
Improper use of markers: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
Speeding in a school zone: 2
Speeding: 2
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 2
Improper turns: 2
Failure to halt alcohol possession by a minor: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane:
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
Failure to wear seat belt: 1
Failure to halt alcohol possession by a minor is illegal.
Dr. Amanda Posner, a well-known pediatrician, died August 28 in Westport, surrounded by her closest friends and family. She was 43.
She graduated from Dartmouth College in 2004 with a BA in religion and theater. She earned an MD from Columbia University in 2012, and completed her pediatrics residency at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in 2015. She was admired for her skill, compassion and warmth.
Amanda’ was also a talented performer. She acted and sang in productions at Dartmouth and with the Bard Hall Players at Columbia, after appearing off-Broadway as a teenager and acting in the films “Welcome to the Dollhouse” and “The Door in the Floor.”
Diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at 33, Amanda defied her illness for more than a decade, living fully and serving as an example to friends and family. She later joined the Board of Directors for the Bay Area Young Survivors (BAYS) in CA and the Norfield Children’s Center in CT.
In 2016, Amanda married Ben Neumann. Their son Andrew was the true love of Amanda’s life.
Amanda is survived by her husband Ben, son Andrew, parents Dr. Amy Newburger and Dr. Lawrence Posner of Westport, and her brother Dr. Russell Posner (Dr. Melissa Posner_ of Darien.
A celebration of Amanda’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on September 14 at Norfield Church in Weston. To honor Amanda’s lasting impact, her family is establishing an endowed professorship in the Division of General Pediatrics at UCSF.
Dr. Amanda Posner
============================================
As summer wanes, Tomoko Meth caught this colorful “Westport … Naturally” scene at Mark Yurkiw and Wendy Van Wie’s beautiful Cross Highway home.
And finally … once you saw the “signs” story, you knew this was coming:
(All the signs point this way: to the donation page for “06880.” Hey, this stuff doesn’t post itself. We need our readers — aka “your” — help. Thanks for tossing a few bucks our way!)
Voters in more than half of Westport’s 9 Representative Town Meeting districts will have an actual choice this November.
But just barely.
Each RTM district elects 4 representatives to the town’s legislative body.
With the filing deadline passed, only 5 of those districts have more than 4 candidates on the ballot. They are Districts 1, 2, 3, 4 and 9. The other 4 have the bare minimum: 4 candidates each.
And of the 5 districts with actual races, 3 have just 5 candidates. Two — Districts 2 and 9 — have 6.
Here’s the breakdown.
District 1: Incumbents: Andrew Bloom, Matthew Mandell, Kristin Mott Purcell, Chris Tait. Petitioning: Gail Coykendall.
District 2: Incumbents: Jay Keenan, Melissa Levy, Louis Mall, Mike Perry. Petitioning: Harris Falk, Jenna Petok.
District 3: Incumbents: Ross Burkhardt, Jimmy Izzo, Pamela Troy-Kopack. Petitioning: Adam Drake, Srikanth Puttagunta.
District 4: Incumbents: Andrew Colabella, Clarence Hayes, Jeff Wieser. Petitioning: Charles Lucas, Victoria Wylie, Charles Lucas.
District 5: Incumbents: Peter Gold, Karen Kramer, Dick Lowenstein, Claudia Shaum.
District 6: Incumbents: Candace Banks, Seth Braunstein, Alma Sarelli. Petitioning: Lauren Karpf.
District 7: Incumbents Brandi Briggs, Jack Klinge, Ellen Lautenberg Hendel. Petitioning: Joseph Carson.
But those crustaceans (and all the steak, cole slaw, beverages — not to mention the band, booths, etc.) don’t fall from the sky. They take a ton of work.
The Westport Rotary Club fundraiser happens every year because of the very hard work of every member. And many more volunteers.
At yesterday’s weekly meeting, LobsterFest volunteer chair Susan Shuck described what all those people do.
Their efforts pay off. Approximately $400,000 will be distributed as grants in May, primarily to Westport and other Fairfield County non-profit organizations.
Representatives from one of those groups — Homes with Hope — spoke to the Rotary Club too. Paris Looney and Katherine Murray joined CEO Helen McAlinden.
She noted that HwH plays a major role in the greater Westport community — not only in the rehabilitation of homeless people, but through an array of programs and strategies that help prevent homelessness at its roots.
Back to LobsterFest: If you don’t yet have tickets, you’re out of luck. It sells out very quickly, when 1,500 tickets become available each summer. Watch this space next year!
Susan Shuck, with a LobsterFest volunteer t-shirt. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
Doris Skutch — a longtime Westporter, business executive, and ardent volunteer in politics and other areas of local life — died peacefully here on Sunday. She was 94.
After leaving Connecticut College in the 1950s, she moved to New York and began her professional journey as a journalist for women’s periodicals.
Her career soon transitioned into textiles, where she found her calling in communications and marketing. Doris spent over 3 decades at Burlington Industries. Starting as a secretary, she rose through the ranks to become vice president – fashion. She loved her twice-yearly trips to shows in Paris and London, bringing back wonderful concepts for fabric buyers.
Following her tenure at Burlington, Doris brought her expertise to a boutique communications firm in Westport. She later dedicating her skills to nonprofit work, as a grant writer for United Way in Bridgeport.
A passionate advocate for civic engagement and community service, Doris was a lifelong Democrat who remained active for over 50 years. She was a life member of the Westport League of Women Voters, and held LWV leadership roles at the local and state levels.
Her commitment to public service included the Y’s Women, and the Connecticut Alliance for Music. She also participated in several book clubs.
Doris was a devoted member of Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church for many years.
Doris is survived by her sons Douglas and Elliot Royce; stepsons David and Christopher Skutch; niece Casey Farley; 4 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.
Doris Skutch
=================================================
Today, elephant ears make their first appearance in our “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … Rick Davies, founder of Supertramp, died Saturday in East Hampton, New York. He was 81, and had been diagnosed with blood cancer over a decade ago. Click here for a full obituary.
(What can be more logical than supporting “06880,” your 24/7/365 hyper-local blog? And what can be easier than clicking here to do it? Thanks for helping us bring news, photos — and music — to you !)
Peter Barlow — a marine photographer, musician, painter, storyteller; avid collector of books, musical instruments and artifacts from around the world, and a link to Westport’s legacy as an arts colony — died August 24. He was 95,
His daughter Dorrie Barlow Thomas writes:
Peter lived a long and happy life, full of interesting and unique experiences. He died exactly as he wished to, in his home surrounded by his beloved things, peacefully in his sleep while his daughter held his hand.
He contributed weekly to “06880”‘s online art gallery, until the last week of his life.
Peter Barlow, in 2023.
Peter was born and raised in Westport. He grew up in a home filled with creativity. Both his parents were artists.
His father, Perry Barlow, was a prolific cover illustrator and cartoonist for The New Yorker. His mother, Dorothy Hope Smith, was a portraitist specializing in children. Her most famous work was the illustration of the Gerber Baby. (Click here for Peter’s recounting of that tale, 10 years ago.)
Peter’s skills included painting, playing the trumpet and piano, lettering, and particularly photography — especially boats of all kinds.
Out on the water in his motorboat named Focus, camera in hand, the lighting, shapes and interplay between them fueled his talent.
Peter’s photographs were published in every major boating magazine. He was especially known for his monthly photo essay in Soundings (during its newspaper days). He published a book, “The Marine Photography of Peter Barlow,” in the 1970s.
Being on his boat was where he felt most alive. In a photography career that spanned 7 decades, Peter still zoomed about the Sound until he was 92.
No one who saw a man at the helm, racing Focus across the bow of an oncoming boat to get the shot he wanted at just the right angle, would have guessed his age.
Peter started out as a painter, often using images of musicians and instruments in his work. When he became interested in boats as subjects, he took photos to use as references.
A boat owner asked to buy one of those photos. Peter realized this was an opportunity, because owners seldom see their beloved boats in action. His career was born.
He was also a collector of many things, beginning at a young age. At 10 or 11 Peter rode his bike to other towns, visiting obscure shops that sold figurines and artifacts from other countries. His goal was to have one object from every country. His vast collection far surpassed that.
In his 20s and 30s he was a trumpet player in local jazz bands, mostly improvising. Over the years he became interested in a broad range of music — not just playing it but hearing it.
He amassed a collection of more than 12,000 LPs. If you had a yard sale during the 1980s or ’90s Peter was probably there.
In his younger years, Peter fought social injustices on a local scale. Working to integrate establishments around Westport and neighboring towns, he and his friends created situations in which business owners might demonstrate their biases. If circumstances warranted, Peter and friends took those businesses to court — and won.
His support for social justice efforts continued throughout his life.
Peter was creative in nearly every aspect of his life. The world saw his photographs and his paintings, but his family and friends knew him primarily as a collector and storyteller.
They enjoyed his whimsically decorated house, filled to the brim with his things.
Peter viewed every surface — walls, shelves, tabletops, cabinet doors, bathrooms, stairways — as places to set up a composition of interesting objects.
Even storage boxes got creative treatment; every one was labeled with an artfully crafted, professional-level lettering job. Within his family he was famous for his unique handmade cards and creative gift wrapping.
All photos and artwork by Peter Barlow.
Peter lived in Westport from birth until age 75. He then moved to the Mystic area, to be close to his daughter and her family.
Peter is survived by his daughter Dorrie and her husband David; grandchildren Sierra (Yosdany), Bailey (Luke), Lindy, Noah and Hannah; great-grandchildren Luna and Oscar, and step-children Robin, John and Becky Frey. He was predeceased by his older brother, Collins Barlow.
The family will have a private gathering honoring Peter, as he would have preferred. His family will gather around their big dinner table, enjoying cheese and crackers, telling stories, sharing memories, and raising glasses in a toast to him.
Peter Barlow in 2002, with his first 2 granddaughters.
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
\
