In the summer of 2020, Westport was in a dark place.
COVID ravaged the country. Thousands of people died each day. We wore masks, and kept 6 feet apart as much as possible. Most entertainment venues were closed. Parks & Rec had removed the grills from Compo Beach.
Then came literal darkness.
On August 4, Hurricane Isaias roared through town. Power was out for over 5,600 customers.
Grove Point Road (Photo/John Kantor)
Without air conditioning or internet, Westporters gathered — socially distanced, of course — all around Jesup Green, to use the Library’s Wifi.
(Photo/Miggs Burroughs)
It took over a week for some residents to get back to what, in the summer of 2020, passed for normal.
The National Guard rolled in. (Photo/Sandy Rothenberg)
Today, it all seems like decades ago.
But anyone who lived through that summer will never forget it.
Hales Road. (Photo/Patricia McMahon)
Saugatuck Shores (Photo/News12 Connecticut)
Richmondville Avenue.
Saugatuck Avenue.
Compo Beach kayaks (Photo/Sandra Long)
Several days later, on Charcoal Hill Road. (Photo/Pat Blaufuss)
A welcome sight — finally.
Longshore golf course. (Photo/Brian Sikorski)
Pumpkin Hill Road at Colony Road, a few days later. (Photo/Christie Stanger)
(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
As “06880” reported more than 2 weeks ago, the state Department of Transportation is changing the near-century-old Merritt Parkway exit numbers.
The new ones — “20” for our familiar Exit 41, and “21” for 42 — conform to federal standards, which mandate that exits show the approximate mileage from a starting point. With the Merritt, that’s the New York border.
Old habits die hard. This may take some getting used to.
Fortunately, for at least 2 years small signs underneath the larger ones will say “old Exit 41” or “42.”
Fingers crossed that GPS picks up on the change pretty quickly.
(Photos/Adrian Mueller)
In a couple of years, an even bigger change is coming.
Say goodbye to Westport’s I-95 exits 17 and 18. (Hat tip: Bill Dedman)
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All is ready for Alo’s opening.
The “activewear brand,” offering “studio-to-street clothing, yoga gear and luxury skincare,” replaces Oka — previously Banana Republic, and before that, Klein’s Department Store — tomorrow (August 1).
Can’t wait? There’s an Early Access Shopping event today (Thursday, July 31, 4-7 p.m.), at their “newest sanctuary.”
There’s a DJ, yoga performances, beverages, and a $500 Alo gift card giveaway.
The first 100 shoppers get an “exclusive gift” with their purchase.
But that’s not the only new activewear store opening downtown tomorrow.
Or the only one with a special opening event.
Beyond Yoga opens their second Connecticut store (after Greenwich) near Lux Bond & Green, in the “Elm & Main” shopping plaza (formerly called Brooks Corner).
They’ll host their own preview party tonight (Thursday, July 31, 5 to 7 p.m.), with their own DJ, light bites, sips, 20% off purchases, and a gift with any purchase of $300 or more. Click here to RSVP.
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LobsterFest is one of our town’s greatest parties.
The Westport Rotary Club event features lobsters (duh), steak, drinks, live music, kids’ activities and much more, all on a beautiful late summer day at Compo Beach. (This year it’s September 20.)
Over 1,500 guests help raise over $400,000, for nearly 50 community organizations.
But all that fun takes work.
At least 250 volunteers are needed — and as hard as Rotarians work, there are not that many club members.
Volunteers can purchase a lobster or steak ticket, or get a free hamburger or hot dog. All volunteers enjoy free drinks too.
All ages (youngsters and up) are needed for set-up on Friday, September 19 (3 to 6:30 p.m.) and Saturday, September 20 (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.); shifts during the September 20 LobsterFest (from 2 to 7:30 p.m.), and clean-up on Sunday, September 21 (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.).
The Clubhouse — Westport’s very popular sports simulator/big TV screen/ karaoke/rooftop event space hosted Club 203’s volunteers.
The town’s social club for adults with disabilities, and their partner Westport’s Department of Human Services, said “thank you” to the men and women who make each monthly gathering special.
“They are the glue to all of our celebrations. We would be nothing if not for them,” says Club203 co-founder Stacie Curran. She also thanked owners Tim and Emily Zobl of The Clubhouse, for their help.
Volunteers were the first to see the 2025-26 calendar. The year kicks off with a bash at Lachat Town Farm in Weston, and continues with Halloween, Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings. January brings a night at Westport Country Playhouse.
It’s on the bank of the Saugatuck River, behind the Levitt Pavilion.
She worries it may become a hazard.
“06880” often reminds drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians: “Be careful out there.”
Now we’ll add rowers and boaters to the list.
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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest bewteen July 230 and 29.
A 40-year-old Norwalk man was charged with failure to appear. The warrant stemmed for a previous motor vehicle arrest. He posted a $10,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 4 citations
Failure to obey stop sign: 2
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 2
Failure to renew registration: 2
Criminal trespass: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
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Noted lawyer and 1959 Staples High School graduate Michael Cardozo died July 23 in White Plains, after a short illness. He was 84.
His career included over 45 years at Proskauer Rose, and 12 as New York City’s corporation counsel (appointed by Mayor Bloomberg). He also served as president of the New York City Bar Association, the New York State Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government, and on many non-profit boards.
He earned a BA political science in 1963 from Brown University, and a JD 3 years later from Columbia Law School.
Michael is survived by his wife Nancy Cardozo; daughters Hedy Cardozo (Michael Rosenblut) and Sheryl Cardozo (Adi Diner), and grandchildren Lucy, Josh and Ellie.
(Sure, the Merritt Parkway may switch numbers. But “06880” will never change. We’ll keep delivering news, features, history, photos an much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Posted onJuly 30, 2025|Comments Off on Roundup: Wheels2U, Top Dems, SNL Alum …
There’s no such thing as a free lunch.
But there are 5 free rides for anyone who downloads the Wheels2U app for the first time.
Those rides can be used to deliver you to the train station platform. Or to head downtown for the Senior Center, Farmers’ Market, or shopping (and that non-free lunch).
The Westport Transit District’s Wheels2U provides rides to and from anywhere in Westport, and the Saugatuck and Greens Farms train stations every weekday from 5:30 to 10:30 a.m., and 4 to 9:30 p.m. Your first 5 rides are free.
Wheels2U also goes between anywhere in Westport and downtown locations every Tuesday through Thursday, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Again: the first 5 rides are free.
Just download the Wheels2U app, available at the App Store and Google Play.
Book your ride 20 minutes in advance. Track the vehicle on the app (like Uber). Then enjoy the ride in an SUV.
Connecticut’s top Democrats — Governor Ned Lamont, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Senator Richard Blumenthal, Attorney General William Tong, and Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas — came to Rive Bistro on Sunday.
They joined nearly 100 Westport Wesporters, and the Democratic Town Commitee’s candidates in November elections, at the party’s annual summer social.
Governor Ned Lamont (microphone), with (from left) Democratic selectperson candidates Amy Wistreich and Kevin Christie, and Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz.
Earlier in the day, Bysiewicz canvassed door to door with Kevin Christie and Amy Wistriech, the 1st and 2nd selectperson candidates respectively.
Canvassing on Sunday (from left): Kevin Christie, Amy Wistreich, Susan Bysiewicz. The deer is not registered to vote.
Singer/songwriter — and noted “Saturday Night Live” alum — Ana Gasteyer brings her jazz standards, Broadway classics and comic stories to the Westport Country Playhouse on August 8 (8 p.m.).
SNL fans remember Gasteyer’s characters from her 6-year run: middle school music teacher Bobbie Moughan-Culp, NPR radio host Margaret Jo, Lilith Fair poetess Cinder Calhoun, along with impressions of Martha Stewart, Celine Dion and Hillary Rodham Clinton.
The gorgeous hideaway off Bayberry Lane joins with the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra for 3 “Music in the Garden” Sunday concerts. Each blends music, poetry and nature, in a serene woodland setting.
The series opens on August 3 with the Quantum Leap String Quartet, featuring composer Gwyneth Walker reading her adaption from the writings of Henry David Thoreau with her suite “Trails and Open Spaces.”
On August 17, the Harmonia V Woodwind Quintet fills the gardens with lyrical melodies.
The final event (August 31) showcases “So Sings the Garden,” a collaboration of poetry reading led by Westport poet laureate Donna Disch, with performances by soprano Maureen McKay, baritone Marcelo Guzzo, pianist Thomas Cuffari, and cellist Gunnar Sahlin.
Each evening includes an optional garden tour from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., with concerts beginning at 6. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic before the performances. Parking and shuttle service is provided at Coleytown Elementary School.
Speaking of gardens: It’s still July. But have you noticed an unusual number of leaves on the ground?
Johanna Keyser Rossi has. She took this photo …
(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
… and searched online for more information.
She found this: “Trees may shed leaves to conserve water, due to prolonged hot weather and insufficient rainfall.”
Today’s forecast is for 94-degree heat (and possible afternoon thunderstorms).
The heat breaks tomorrow, with a predicted high of 78. With a little luck, we won’t see many more falling leaves until fall.
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“Cheese Fries & Chili Dips” — Weston native Chris Fuller’s one-man “hilarious and heartfelt story of a pro golfer’s bipolar journey to wellness” — returns to the barn at the Westport Country Playhouse on August 22.
There’s a pre-show wine party at 6 p.m.. The show is at 7. It’s followed by a special post-performance discussion on “breaking the stigma,” with Yale University mental health specialists.
Kay McGhee Leary — a 1973 Staples High School graduate — died peacefully on Saturday in Jacksonville, Florida. She was 70.
In Westport she was involved in Girl Scouts, and the Staples band, orchestra and choir.
She earned a bachelor of science from Skidmore College, a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a Ph.D. from the University of Florida — all in nursing.
She worked as a women’s health nurse practitioner, and served as a professor at Jacksonville University and the University of Florida – Jacksonville.
Kay loved history, travel and learning, along with bridge, book clubs, and involvement with the Women’s Giving Alliance and the PEO Sisterhood, DQ Chapter.
She is survived by her husband, Todd Leary, daughter Kay Lewis Hood, and sister Bonnie McGhee Strittmatter.
A celebration of life is set for Palms Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville Beach on August 1 (11 a.m.).
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to a women’s health or education-focused charity in Kay’s honor, such as the Women’s Giving Alliance.
This afternoon’s brief — but fierce — Compo Beach storm left this aftermath … (Photo/Liz Bloch Lindecke)
… while this was the scene not far away, at Sherwood Island State Park. Photographer Chris Swan explains: “The large cumulonimbus cloud passed over Sherwood Island and Burying Hill at 3:45 p.m. The interesting weather was caused by heat, humidity and a front approaching from the Hudson Valley.” … (Photo/Chris Swan)
… and the view from Burying Hill Beach (Photo/Wendy Levy)
Save the date! This year’s LobsterFest — the early fall fun-fest (and fundraiser) at Compo Beach — is September 20.
All the food and family-friendly entertainment features of past years return. The Westport Rotary Club promises a few new additions, along with new beverage options.
Right now, the Westport Rotary Club is signing sponsors. It’s a great opportunity to align with one of the town’s most lively and popular events.
It’s all for a great cause. The Rotary Club is celebrating its centennial with a major contribution to the Compo Beach playground renovation.
They awarded $385,000 to the project from last year’s Lobster Fest. Another $285,000 went to 46 local and regional causes — and $100,000 more to support international projects. The largest is outfitting a new dental and vision building in rural Uganda.
It’s not easy capturing lightning (on camera, of course).
But Meredith Holod was in the right place, at the right time — and a safe distance away — Monday.
Here’s her view during the quick but intense storm, from Compo Beach.
(Photo/Meredith Holod)
But lightning did strike twice, elsewhere in Westport. The Fire Department responded to 2 incidents.
One struck a home on Joanne Circle, igniting a fire on the second floor. Crews swiftly contained the fire before it could spread further. No injuries were reported.
Meanwhile on Bayberry Lane, lightning struck a pet “invisible fence.” The surge caused electrical damage, and posed a risk to the property.
“Summer storms can be dangerous, and things can go wrong quickly,” says Fire Marshal Terry Dunn.
“Electric pet fences are especially vulnerable, because they’re wired underground and usually connected to your home’s electrical system. If lightning strikes nearby it can travel through that wiring, damage your home, and potentially start a fire. It takes just a few seconds to unplug the system when a storm is on the way. It’s a smart precaution.”
The Westport Fire Department urges residents to take precautions during thunderstorms:
Unplug electric fences.
Use surge protectors for important electronics; unplug non-essential devices.
Avoid using wired appliances or electronics during a storm.
Stay indoors and away from windows when thunder or lightning is present.
Saturn — the wildly successful calendar app for high school and college students, which began as a Staples High venture when Class of 2017 member Dylan Diamond was a teenager there — has been acquired by Snap.
The new owners — the company behind Snapchat — did not disclose terms of the day. But most of Saturn’s 30 full-time employees will join their new owner.
Engadget, which first reported the news, says: “It’s not clear what exactly Snap has planned for Saturn, but … the calendar app will continue to operate as a standalone service.”
Saturn may help introduce calendar-related features into Snapchat.
Saturn is available at more than 17,000 high schools. And Snap is used by more than half of US teenagers.
John McCarthy was the most recent “06880” reader to send a photo of the camera mounted at the Longshore entrance, and wonder why it’s there.
(Photo/John McCarthy)
“Seems a little out of place,” he writes.
Not really. Parks & Recreation Department director Erik Barbieri explains: “This is a license plate recognition camera, for cars entering Longshore.
:There have been break-ins in the past, but the cameras in the parking lot couldn’t always catch the plates.
“This helps us know who came in, if there are any other issues in the future. A good recommendation from the Police Department.”
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For years, Staples High School Class of 2024 graduate Ethan Walmark entertained Westporters, with his many musical talents.
But not just us.
Ethan was on the “Today Show.” He helped Yoko Ono flip the switch to light the Empire State Building blue for World Autism Awareness Day. His performance of “Eminence Front” rocked a Who show. He sang the national anthem in front of 25,000 fans at Red Bull Arena.
As a 12-year-old Coleytown Middle School student, Ethan followed Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Billy Joel and Elton John at the 1st-ever Autism Awareness Gala Fundraiser at the Kennedy Center in Washington.
Now — a rising sophomore at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music — Ethan is back in town.
Tonight (Wednesday, 6 to 9 p.m.), he performs outside the Spotted Horse — on keyboards, and electric and acoustic guitar.
He won’t sing all of the 3,000 songs in his repertoire. But you’ll recognize many of your favorite Beatles, Billy Joel, Elton John, Motown, John Mayer, Simon & Garfunkel and Four Seasons favorites.
And Ethan will take requests.
Ethan Walmark
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Speaking of entertainment: Country music rocks the VFW this Saturday (July 19, 8 p.m.).
Grady McAuliffe — with his new single “On the Edge” at #4 on the Hot Disc/All Country Radio chart — and his band bring their high-energy, country grit, Southern Soul and rock-infused sound to the Riverside Avenue venue.
Mitchells held their annual Compo Beach party last night, for company members and their families.
As always, it was first class: lobster and shrimp, Colony Pizza, hot dogs and much more.
Jack and Bill Mitchell — the second generation, after their parents Ed and Norma — were joined by their sons and daughters-in-law, and their kids. The 4th generation is well on its way to making its mark on the Westport store — and those in Greenwich, Long Island, on the West Coast, and now Dallas.
The fifth generation was there too. Their time will come!
Of course — befitting two Westport town jewels (Mitchells and Compo) — the weather was perfect.
Bill Mitchell, at the company picnic. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Hillandale Road residents were stunned earlier this year, when the state Department of Transportation clear-cut large swaths of land on the Sherwood Island Connector, in preparation for a new maintenance facility behind Walgreens.
More work will be done, this time on West Parish Road. But now, town operations director Thomas Kiely has given neighbors some warning.
He writes: “As part of a broader infrastructure improvement initiative, the DOT will be removing trees along a portion of the roadway over the coming weeks. The work will take place from the corner of Post Road East, to the area across from 7 West Parish Road.
“In place of the removed trees, the DOT will construct a 10-foot land berm. This will be landscaped with new vegetation, to enhance the visual appeal of the area and create a natural buffer for nearby properties.
“Additionally, the project will eliminate the old salt shed and adjacent facility entrance on West Parish Road, further improving privacy and separation for adjacent homes.
“We understand that changes to the neighborhood landscape may raise questions, and we want to ensure residents are aware. Please be assured that the work is being planned with consideration for safety, improved visibility, and long-term aesthetics.
“I will continue to work with the DOT and advocate on behalf of the Westport community. Please know that the plantings will be towards the end of the project after final grading is complete, to avoid damage.” (Hat tip: Jonathan Steinberg)
The DOT maintenance facility, as seen from West Parish Road.
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Westport Library’s Verso Studios have hosted Emmy, Grammy and Tony Award winners.
Now they’ve got an honor of their own.
Actually, 4. “Crew Call” — the Verson program that gives community members the chance to be trained in live, hands-on video production — recently earned 3 silver and 1 bronze Telly Awards.
Created in 1979 to honor local, regional and cable television commercials, with non-broadcast video and television programming soon, Tellys have evolved with the rise of digital video to include branded content, documentary, social media, immersive and more.
The contest draws more than 13,000 entries annually, from 6 continents and all 50 states.
Crew Call began as a 6-week training course, led by Emmy-winning Verso Studios video producer David Bibbey. Community members are trained to record and edit programming and events produced on the Library stage, and occasionally on location.
Verso Studios video producer David Bibbey (far right), assistant producer Fred Lavins (center, 3rd from left), and Crew Call members, before a recent program.
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Speaking of entertainment: Perhaps the Westport Country Playhouse tempted fate last night by screening the film “Singin’ in the Rain,”
Rain pelted down, and there was a power blip at the 7 p.m. showtime. But the tech crew got it up and running, just a few minutes late.
The Playhouse’s celebration of timeless films continues with “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” (August 6, 6 p.m.), “The Sting” (August 18, 7 p.m.), and Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho”(October 10, 7 p.m.).
A combination of heat, poor air quality and the potential for flash floods this week prompted Governor Lamont to activate Connecticut’s “extreme hot weather protocol.”
It begins at noon today, and runs through at least 8 p.m. Friday.
Westport has activated its cooling centers and will monitor conditions closely, says Fire Chief and emergency management director Nick Marsan.
Need help or transportation? Call 211, or visit www.211ct.org.
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Hearts in Harmony is a foundation created by Mark and Kira Greenfield. The mission is to find better treatments (and a cure) for Long QT Syndrome, a heart rhythm disorder that affects their daughter Shea.
But the non-profit’s impact extends far beyond researchers and patients.
Last week, Hearts in Harmony partnered with Coastal Bridge Advisors, to offer CPR and AED (automated external defibrillator) training to residents.
Over 6o people — many of them parents with young children — learned from EMS professionals, at Coastal Bridge’s Wilton Road headquarters. The event included special infant and toddler training.
Make-Modern’s grand opening is tomorrow (Wednesday, 3 to 6 p.m.).
The open house at their 180 Post Road East location includes free crafting stations for adults and kids, plus giveaways.
Make-Modern is a crafting and sewing studio “for people with a passion for design, and a deep respect for the art of making … rhe opposite of (a) glitter-and-glue setup. Every class, workshop, party and camp is built around thoughtful curriculums, age-appropriate skill building, and elevated materials sourced from around the world.”
An alert — and grossed-out — “06880” reader writes:
“I was returning an item at Lululemon today, and experienced a poorly mannered dog owner.
“Three cashiers were handling customers. I was in the middle. The lady to my left had a cocker spaniel on a leash. I just had a pedicure, and tried to avoid him stepping on my toes. The owner saw that, and pulled him to her front.
“It was busy and noisy. When the dog owner left I smelled something foul, and looked down to see several pools of vomit.
“Another woman almost stepped into it before I called for her to stop. I told the manager. It took 3 young women to clean the floor. They put up a cone so no one would fall.
“There was no way the owner didn’t realize her dog threw up. I say that as a dog owner myself. While accidents can occur, to not report it was negligent.”
For sure. And that brings up a fairly new trend: Dog owners who bring their pets everywhere.
I’ve seen them in stores, supermarkets and restaurants. What’s up with that?
I understand owners’ desires to bring their dogs with them. But do they really belong everywhere?
Am I being overly sensitive? I want to hear all sides of this. Click “Comments” below.
Sure, you take your pooch paddleboarding. But into a store? (Photo/Matt Murray)
Every Thursday, Jazz at the Post welcomes noted musicians from around the globe.
But there are plenty of homegrown talents too.
At the top of any list is Chris Coogan. The Weston native is a mucha-admired composer, performer, teacher, choir director and producer, rooted in both jazz and gospel.
He headlines this week’s shows (July 17, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7; VFW Post 399; music charge $20; $15 for veterans and students).
He’ll be joined by John Mobilio, his bassist for decades. Also sitting in: drummer Scott Latzky, who has worked with Tito Puente, Lionel Hampton and Bob Dorough. Click here for tickets, and more information.
This year’s Westport Library “Booked for the Evening” event features Sarah Jessica Parker.
The Emmy Award-winning actor, producer, publisher and businesswoman will be celebrated on September 10. Tickets go on sale August 12.
“Booked” — the Library’s major fundraiser — honors someone whose work reflects Library’s purpose: to nurture a love of learning, and enhance our understanding of the world.
Last year’s recipient was Billie Jean King. Past guests include Tom Brokaw, E.L. Doctorow, Calvin Trillin, Wendy Wasserstein, Pete Hamill, Martin Scorsese, Arthur Mitchell, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David Halberstam, Oscar Hijuelos, Adam Gopnik, Will Shortz, Patti Smith, Barry Levinson, Jon Meacham, Nile Rodgers, Lynsey Addario, Ron Chernow, Alan Alda, Justin Paul, Frederic Chiu, Itzhak Perlman, Shonda Rhimes, and Laura Linney.
Parker — a noted advocate for literature and libraries — has built a career as both an entertainer and champion of the written word. In 2023 she launched SJP Lit, an imprint focused on underrepresented voices. She is a judge for the Booker Prize, and received the PEN/Audible Literary Service Award this year.
She also executive produced “The Librarians,” a film about the fight against book bans which premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
“To censor a book is to limit imagination, curiosity, connection, empathy and inspiration,” she says.
“Libraries aren’t just buildings with shelves. They are a beacon. They are warm in the winter and cool in summer, and they are sanctuaries of possibility. They are a heartbeat of the neighborhood.”
Parker has won 4 Golden Globe Awards, 3 Screen Actors Guild Awards, and 2 Emmys. She currently stars as Carrie Bradshaw in the HBO series “And Just Like That.” Throughout Parker’s work, her advocacy for intellectual freedom and library access has been unwavering.
She served on the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities during the Obama administration, and is vice chair of the board of directors for the New York City Ballet. Click here for more “Booked for the Evening” information.
Six bands will entertain all day long, at our July 27 Soundview Summer Stroll.
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Soundview Drive — the Compo Beach exit road — will be closed to traffic. There will be kids’ activities and games, food, a photo booth, face painting, community vibing — and plenty of live music.
Bands and solo artists include Rock Paper Soul, Owen Daniel, Deep Valley Road & Friends, Core, Skunk Rockets and Not My Problem.
The entire day is free — courtesy of “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association.
Get ready to rock, while strolling (or Rollerblading or biking) all along the car-less beach! (And be sure to follow the Stroll’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundviewsummerstroll.)
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Speaking of the beach: After a 5-year hiatus, the Compo Summer Basketball League is back!
Its re-launch on Monday marks a major milestone in Westport’s recreation scene.
There are 95 players. Most are fathers from Westport and Weston. One team includes recent Staples graduates, ages 21-23.
Fun fact: One of the teams is coached by New York Knicks legend John Starks.
All 5 games were competitive and well played, with 2 referees and a scorekeeper.
People passing by stopped to watch. Teams hung around afteward, and had drinks
The league continues over the next 7 Mondays. Semifinals and finals are August 25.
Summertime basketball action at Compo Beach. (Photo/Jordan Schur)
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Yesterday’s thunder ws loud. And the lightning was bright.
It’s extremely difficult to capture a lightning strike. But Meredith Holod did, at Comp Beach:
(Photo/Meredith Holod)
Fortunately, the flash floods we were warned about did not materialize.
But it’s exponentially better to have it that way, than the reverse.
Among Earthplace’s many important projects, one of the most long-running — and popular — is care for its residential animals.
They include Chatty and Cerena, the bald eagles who arrived more than 20 years ago with injuries that made them non-releasable.
Today those raptors — along with dozens of other species — play a vital role in the environmental center’s education and conservation awareness efforts.
Now — during their fundraising drive — they’ve got a golden opportunity. All contributions made through July 31 will be matched, up to $12,000.
That $24,000 could go a huge way toward caring for dozens of animals. They inspire thousands of visitors each year, and many moroe at schools, libraries, festivals and community events.
“They teach lessons of survival, adaptation and resilience,” notes Veronica Swain, director of nature prograsm.
Recent cuts and losses in federal and foundation grand funding have hit Earthplace hard. Every donation will to toward animal feeding, medical care and enrichment activities.
Grace says yes! She checks in at the Longshore courts … and we check her out, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo.
(Photo/Cindy Nigro)
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And finally … on this date in 1609, Bohemia was granted freedom of religion, by the Holy Roman Emperor.
(We can’t wait to see you at the Soundview Stroll — a gift from “06880” to the town. To give back though, we rely on readers like you. Please click here to support our efforts. Thank you!)
The Westport Center for Senior Activities offers a number of wellness programs.
Three are dedicated specifically to support people living with Parkinson’s. They include:
Boxing: A high-energy class to improve balance and coordination, taught by fitness instructor and boxer Dan Lewis. Thursdays, 2-3 p.m.; July 10-September 25. $60.
Fitness: A movement-based fitness program to enhance strength, flexibility and mobility, taught by fitness instructor Beth Dalen. First 3 Wednesdays of each month, 10:15-11 a.m.; July 9-September 24.
Support Group: Guided discussions offering emotional support, shared experiences and practical strategies for living with Parkinson’s. Guest speakers address specific topics. The group is facilitated by nurse Diane Bosch. 10:15-11 a.m.; July 23, August 27, September 24.
To learn more, call assistant director Holly Betts (203-341-5096) or program specialist Joe Anastasi (203-341-1066).
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Free entertainment is on tap this weekend, at the Levitt Pavilion.
Early Clover — the former Coasters’ lead singer and Apollo favorite pays tribute to Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Nat King Cole, Otis Redding and more tonight (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.).
Tomorrow it’s Jake Swamp & the Pine, with Kali Stoddard-Imari (Sunday, 6:30 p.m.). Songs range from acoustic anthems to hoedowns to waltzes, drawing on influences from folk, bluegrass and pop.
Speaking of shows: The Old School Revue All-Stars have a great reputation. So does the Weston History & Culture Center’s “Music at the Barn” outdoor summer concert series.
So the band’s appearance on Sunday, July 13 (5:30 p.m.) should be an extra-special evening. They’ll play classic R&B, rock, soul, jazz and swing tunes.
Current and former members have toured and/or recorded with Steely Dan, the Average White Band, Joe Cocker, Bob Dylan, Jose Feliciano, Tower of Power, Hall & Oates, the Blues Brothers, Rolling Stones and Aretha Franklin.
Bring a lawn chair, and a picnic (no food truck). Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for non-members; purchase here or at the show.
Marina Drasnin — the photographer and artist who left Los Angeles for Westport after the wildfires, and was featured recently in “06880” — is this month’s guest exhibitor at the Westport Book Shop.
She’ll show her very personal and evocative collection, “ad-DRESSING-life,” featuring her hand-beaded and story-imbued miniature dresses. Each one represents a meditation on love, loss and memory, created during her husband’s 5-year battle with illness.
Marina studied at the Sorbonne. Her work has been exhibited in galleries in Boston, Los Angeles and Paris.
A reception is set for July 16 (6 to 7:30 p.m.).
Meanwhile, the Book Shop’s Short Story Book Club meets July 24 (6 p.m.) to discuss “A Cup fo Cold Water” by Edith Wharton (1895) and “Paul’s Case” by Willa Cather (1905).
Registration is required. Call 203-349-5141, or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.
Including — on the steeple, and a flag — Assumption Church.
Work has been going on there for a while. But this weekend, it really catches your eye.
(Photo/Janine Scotti)
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Thursday’s wind storm was brief, but powerful.
Especially at Robin Frank’s house. Two umbrellas on metal poles nearly crashed through the kitchen window while she was making dinner.
This one — reaching the second floor — was especially scary:
(Photo/Robin Frank)
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Leslie Byelas — a noted lawyer, and former assistant US Attorney in Connecticut — died Wednesday in hospice care, at his Fairfield home. He was 88.
The Bridgeport native received an undergraduate degree in 1958 and a law degree in 1961, both from Boston University. He served in Connecticut’s Office of the Judge Advocate, and the US Army Reserve.
Les had a longtime legal practice in Westport. He retired in 2020, after 59 years in the profession.
In addition to his wife Ellen Lubell, Les is survived by his sons Michael and Jonathan, stepdaughter Karina Lubell, sister Ruth Byelas, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Amy Bloom and Bill Mainor, grandchildren Tristan Mareuil and Axel Mareuil, and several nieces and nephews.
Memorial contributions may be made to Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, the Connecticut Food Bank, and Connecticut Humane Society.
Les Byelas
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We get lots of sunset photos at “06880.”
But Cabry Lueker’s image of Burying Hill Beach is particularly compelling, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
Posted onJune 25, 2025|Comments Off on Roundup: Instagram Live At OMG, Free Ice Cream At Retreat Sweets …
Our first “06880” Instagram Live — a discussion hosted by Dave Briggs and Dan Woog, with a Hamlet developer — drew plenty of interactive questions from viewers. We posted the link later, and thousands clicked on.
Now Dave and Dan are teaming up for a second Instagram Live. We’ll be at Old Mill Grocery & Deli tomorrow (Thursday), talking with representatives from the owner (Soundview Empowerment Alliance) and operator (Romanacci).
Our Instagram Live begins at 3 p.m. Our Instagram is 0688danwoog. See you there!
Before the school year fades too far in the rearview mirror, here’s a great story from Saugatuck Elementary.
Students on Bus 2 wanted to show their appreciation for their driver. So they set up a lemonade stand, and raised money for a gift.
They presented it — and told a few heartfelt stories.
Ken starts and ends very day with a smile, they said. He sings “Happy Birthday” to riders. And he knows every youngster by name.
This was Ken’s first year as a First Student bus driver in Westport. We hope he’s here for many, many more!
Ken, with Saugatuck Elementary School students.
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It was not only hot yesterday — it was symmetrically steaming.
Here are 2 views of the heat, 1 minute — and 1 degree — apart.
(Courtesy of Jonathan Alloy)
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Tomorrow marks the opening of MoCA CT’s 2 photography exhibitions.
Tod Papageorge’s “At the Beach” will run alongside “In the Pool,” composed of work by Papageorge’s his graduate students, from June 26 to October 12.
Papageorge is a Connecticut-based artist and teacher. His contributions to American street photography in the 1960s helped shape the genre. His work is held in more than 30 public collections, including the New York and San Francisco Museums of Modern Art.
“At the Beach,” making its East Coast debut, features large black-and-white photoss that Papageorge took on Los Angeles beaches in the 1970s and ’80s.
An opening reception is set for tomorrow (Thursday), from 6-8 p.m.
Retreat Sweets — the Japanese mochi donuts, Korean corn dogs, Asian street food and tea drink spot next to Layla’s Falafel on Post Road East — celebrates its first anniversary on Sunday (June 29, 1-4 p.m.).
They’ll host Korean games like ddakji (folding and flipping paper tiles), and American ones like cornhole. There are plenty of prizes. Plus: free ice cream for everyone!
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The name says it all.
“Stand Up & Learn” — a program that teaches youngsters ages 8 through 16 how to write (and perform) comedic stories and bits — comes to the Westport Country Playhouse next month.
The program runs July 15 to 18 (3:30 to 5:30 p.m.), finishing with a performance the last day. It emphasizes creative writing, communication, critical thinking, and team- and confidence-building.
“Stand Up & Learn” is created and directed by Kevin Flynn. A former pro soccer player, he transitioned into standup comedy, acting, writing, producing and podcasting.
Henry Dodge’s 71.3% faceoff win percentage was the best in the nation for a college lacrosse player this year — by a wide margin.
Yet the 2022 Staples High School graduate (and All-American, Connecticut Player of the Year, and state champion), will not be back for his senior year at the University of Vermont.
He’s transferring to the University of Maryland, a longtime national powerhouse.
He brings America East Specialist of the Year, and All-Conference, honors to College Park.
As a Catamount this past year, Dodge averaged just under 12.5 faceoff wins per game. His 8.5 ground balls per game was 4th -best in NCAA Division I. (Hat tip: Jonathan Hart)
Henry Dodge
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Though this week’s weather has been too hot for many Westporters to do much of anything, it inspired former town poet laureate Diane Lowman to create this haiku:
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Bianca Bazante, owner and creative Director of The Artist Loft, celebrates 4 years at her 23 Post Road West location by offering deals for clients – new and old – all summer.
From now through July, she offers Brazilian Blowdry for $199, and Trissola keratin treatment that lasts up to 6 months for $340. Click here for details.
Bianca Bizante
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It’s milkweed season.
The plant — a favorite of monarch butterflies — is flowering at Winslow Park. Charmian Valante took today’s colorful “Westport … Naturally” photo in a meadow there.
And finally … this is National Camping Week. Enjoy!
(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and, with podcasts and Instagram Live, a multi-platform service, for all things Westport. If you enjoy our work, please click here to support us. Thank you!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Instagram Live At OMG, Free Ice Cream At Retreat Sweets …
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