You’ve got to get to the Westport Country Playhouse more often!
Last week’s Photo Challenge showed a collection of old bottles, arrayed on a wooden beam. (Click here to see.)
They’re on display at the 91-year-old theater. (Which, as Seth Schachter notes, was a tannery long before that.)
He was one of 4 readers to nail the challenge. The others were Cheryl Saviano Petrone, Annie Keefe (who certainly should have, since she’s spent her professinal career there), and Martha Diament.
Toay’s challenge comes from Elle Bowen. If you know where in Westport you’d see this whimsical sight, click “Comments” below.
(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
Speaking of beating the heat: Lou Mall had a chance to do that yesterday.
And he didn’t even plan on it.
The Representative Town Meeting member was on his way into the Senior Center, when he saw 2 teenager girls offering free lemonade.
From left: Taylor Lunney and Nicole Tooker. (Photo/Lou Mall)
Taylor Linney and Nicole Tooker also invited seniors to join them in a “When life gives you lemons, play Cornhole!” event there, on July 30 (10:30 a.m.).
“What great young women!” Lou says.
“I had a wonderful conversation about their upcoming senior year in high school, and colleges.
“It was so nice of them to volunteer their time and energy. And who doesn’t love free lemonade on a hot day like today?”
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The Westport Downtown Association sponsors music on Church Lane, every Friday and Saturday from early June through mid-September.
Now there’s music on Wednesdays too. Spotted Horse hires the performer. But they play outside the popular restaurant, so diners at other venues enjoy them too.
Ethan Walmark was last night’s featured act. The very talented 2024 Staples High School graduate — a rising sophomore at the University of Southern California’s prestigious Thornton School of Music — rocked the al fresco roadway with a sampling of some of his 3,000 covers, of popular tunes in a variety of genres.
Of course, Ethan took requests. That’s the way he rocks.
Also yesterday: 2 well-attended events, on either side of the Westport Library parking lot.
In the Trefz Forum, the 50th anniversary of “Jaws” was celebrated with a special screening of the iconic thriller — followed by an intriguing talk with nephew Christopher Shaw Myers, author of “Robert Shaw: An Actor’s Life on the Set of Jaws and Beyond,”and film critic Joe Myers.
(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
Meanwhile, a few yards away, the Levitt Pavilion welcomed the folk trio I’m With Her:
(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)
As if all that wasn’t enough: Singer Rosanne Cash and her husband, guitarist John Leventhal performed at the Westport Country Playhouse.
(Photo/Susan Garment)
In the words of former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe: “If you can’t find something to do in Westport, you’re just not trying.”
It tells the story of Angie (a bookeworm) who meets Marshall (a coder) building Angela (an AI chatbot).
The humans fall in love. Marshall introduces Angie to his influencer friends. Cautious at first, she acquiesces. With Angela’s guidance, she becomes a viral influencer.
“It’s the biggest artistic risk I’ve ever taken,” Lloyd says. “But it feels right.
“And I can’t think the Library enough. They haven’t just given me a stage — they’ve become partners in the artistic endeavor.”
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker says: “It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of Fairfield 1st Selectman Bill Gerber.
“He was a kind, engaged and accomplished public servant, having served the Fairfield in a wide range of elected and appointed roles over the past 30 years.
“Personally, I found Bill to not only be a good colleague, but even more importantly, a good human.
“On behalf of the town of Westport, I extend my sincere condolences to his wife,Jessica, his family, friends, and the entire Fairfield community. Please know that you are in our thoughts during this time of profound loss.”
Fairfield 1st Selectman Bill Gerber
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“Nature can heal itself, if we give it a little help.”
That was the message from Bob Mazzone, SoundWaters’ vice president of development, the the Westport Rotary Club on Tuesday.
The Stamford-based non-profit teaches students about the environmental challenges threatening Long Island Sound, through programs like sailing, growing kelp to improve the quantity of oxygen, and harbor maintenance.
Bob Mazzone addresses the Westport Rotary Club at Green’s Farms Church. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
5th through 8th graders interested in history and photography: Check out “History Through a Lens.”
The 3-Saturday workshop (August 23, September 13 and 27, 10-11:30 a.m., Weston History & Culture Center) encourages youngsters to dive into photographs from the archives, uncover the stories they tell, capture their own images, and become storytellers too
No experience is necessary. Bring a camera or smartphone (or one will be provided).
Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between July 9 and 15.
A 23-year-old West Haven man was charged with larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny, after an investigation into the October 4 thefts of tires and wheels from Honda of Westport. The loss and associated damage was estimated at $15,530. He posted a $75,000, and was turned over to Stamford Police, who also held a warrant for his arrest.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Driving while texting: 7 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
Failure to renew registration: 5
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 5
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Failure to obey traffic control regulations: 2
Criminal trespass: 1
Reckless driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
Passing in a no-passing zone 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Following too closely: 1
Improper turns: 1
Failure to grant right-of-way: 1
School zone violation: 1.
Criminal trespassing is a crime.
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Longtime Westporter and civic volunteer Mary Shaughnessy died peacefully in November in Stamford, 2 days after celebrating her 95th birthday.
Raised on a Minnesota farm during the Depression, and one of 10 children, she was Homecoming Queen at Rochester High School.
She put herself through the University of Minnesota by working at the Mayo Clinic. She then taught physical education and health at Minnetonka High School.
Mary was married for 60 years to Tom Shaughnessy. Together, they raised 6 children.
In Westport Mary was active with the Church of Assumption, volunteered with Meals on Wheels, and was the only female coach of Westport’s first co-ed softball league.
Mary is survived by her children and their spouses: Tom of River Forest, Illinois; Mary Kay of Stamford; Elizabeth of Nashville; Peggy of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin; Patrick of Redwood City, California and John of Coral Gables, Florida; 11 grandchildren, and her siblings Margaret Tushaus, Donna Mae Stock and Eugene Tushaus.
Carolyn Doan sends a pair of spectacular “Westport … Naturally” photos.
She reports: “The Fresh Market osprey is getting ready to leave the nest.
“There is one chick this year. It can lift itself high above the nest. and is now assessing the idea of leaving. Proud parent looks on as this unfolds.”
And finally … see you tonight at our “06880” blog party (story above)!
(Sure, it’s hot. But the AC is cranking at “06880” Central, and we’re pumping out our usual mix of news, events, features, photos and more, without letup. Please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
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.
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 …
Citing the need for “buy-in” from local communities — and acknowledging fierce opposition from suburban communities and Republican legislators — Governor Lamont vetoed HB 5002 yesterday.
The omnibus housing legislation — passed nearly 3 weeks ago — would have dramatically changed the ability of local governments to impose zoning restrictions.
Non-partisan groups like the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities and Connecticut Council of Small Towns, along with bipartisan leaders from towns including Westport, urged the governor to veto the bill.
Lamont previously supported the bill. He called his veto “reluctant.”
Last September, Governor Lamont spoke at the opening of 122 Wilton Road, where Homes with Hope sponsors 19 units of affordable housing. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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The Soundview Summer Stroll returns soon, for a second great year!
Mark your calendar: Sunday, July 27.
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the event — presented by “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association — will once again close Soundview Drive to vehicles.
The beach exit road will be transformed into a pedestrian-only party.
Like last year’s initial Stroll, the road will be filled with music (4 bands), kids’ activities (games, face painting, photo booth and more), food, and a fun community vibe.
More details will be announced soon. See you at the Stroll!
Last year’s Soundview Stroll. (Photos/Benji Porosoff)
The popular Westport Downtown Association event takes place this Friday through Sunday (June 27-29), on Main Street, Elm Street, Church Lane, Post Road East and Sconset Square. Other retailers beyond downtown will also provide discounts.
It’s 3 days of open-air shopping, community fun (and plenty of bargains).
PS: The weather this weekend will not be as hot as today!
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And another long and important Westport tradition continues this Saturday (June 28).
The 60th annual jUNe Day celebration brings 30 guests from the United Nations to town.
The day-long event — coordinated by the United Nations Association of Southwestern Connecticut and town officials — begins with opening ceremonies (10:30 a.m., Jesup Green).
It includes a special message from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and brief remarks, by UN Under Secretary-General Christian Saunders.
Then, UN families will head off to swim at Compo Beach, play tennis and golf at Longshore, visit Earthplace, tour Wakeman Town Farm, and walk and shop downtown. Many may stay for the Sunrise Rotary Club Duck Race and family fair, also at Jesup Green.
jUNe Day was established in 1965 by Ruth Steinkraus Cohen, founder of the UN Association of Southwestern Connecticut. The Post Road bridge was named in her honor — and on Saturday, the flags of many of the UN’s 193 member nations will fly on the span.
A few volunteers are still needed. Email Andreasusa@yahoo.com, or call 203-526-3275. For more information on the jUNe Day, call 203-454-7685.
Every jUNe Day, the flags of member nations fly on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge. (Photo/Jeff Simon)
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It was the hottest ticket in town — literally.
The Westport Country Playhouse air conditioning faltered. But Justin Paul — the Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony Award-winning songwriter (“Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman”) and Staples Class of 2003 graduate — and his writing partner Benj Pasek delivered a rousing benefit show.
They — and their Broadway musical guests and backup musicians — were drenched in sweat from the opening bars of the first song, “Waving Through a Window.” (The fundraiser was called “Waving Through Westport.”)
Their “fans” in the audience fanned themselves with programs.
But Pasek & Paul showed why they are not only great songwriters — but great showmen as well.
The duo gave plenty of props to Paul’s home town. It was the latest magical night, in the Playhouse’s proud 95-year history.
Front, from left: Justin Paul, Benj Pasek and Alex Newell, at the Westport Country Playhouse. Paul and Pasek took off their jackets soon after the show began. (Photo/Susan Garment)
Youth Commission members solicit businesses downtown.
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A celebration of the life of Carol Randel — the longtime Westport, noted professor and beloved civic volunteer, who died last month — is set for this Sunday (June 29, 4 p.m.). The public is invited.
The setting is appropriate: the Saugatuck Rowing Club. That’s where Carol discovered herself as an athlete, found joy on the water and camaraderie with teammates. She won plenty of medals there too.
One other tribute to a beloved Westporter: A flower garden in memory of Cathy Talmadge — a founder and longtime friend of Wakeman Town Farm — will be dedicated across the street from there on Saturday (June 28, 1:30 p.m.).
The longtime Representative Town Meeting member, civic volunteer and environmental advocate died in January 2023.
First selectwoman Jen Tooker and Westport poet laureate Donna Disch will speak. Friends are invited to share memories. RSVP: nancyp311@gmail.com
Cathy Talmadge, at Wakeman Town Farm.
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Due to the extreme heat advisory, tonight’s Levitt Pavilion concert — Suzanne Sheridan & Friends — has been postponed. The new date is August 12.
Suzanne Sheridan
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Adam Nussbaum — the jazz drummer who grew up in Norwalk, won a Grammy, and has played with artists like Gil Evans and Stan Getz — headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (June 26, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7; music cover $20, $15 for veterans and students).
He’ll be joined by bassist Jay Anderson, pianist Rob Aries and saxophonist Greg (“The Jazz Rabbi”) Wall. Click here for tickets.
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Former Westporter Patricia Anne (White) Dunn died June 20, in North Carolina. She was 82.
She attended Westport schools, then earned a BA in English and world religions from the University of Miami. She was a former board chair of the North Carolina Chapter of the Lupus Foundation of Ameirca, and served on the board of directors of the Charlotte Alumnae Association of Kappa Kappa Gamma.
She is survived by her love and caregiver Sean Lowther; son Christopher Lee (LaDonna) of Mobile, Alabama; brother F. Terrence White (Dena) of Pembroke Pines, Florida; sister Meeche White of Leavenworth, Washington; 2 grandchildren, and members of the Lowther family.
Donations may be made in her memory to the Lupus Foundation of America or Kappa Kappa Gamma Education Foundation, 6640 Riverside Drive, Suite 200, Dublin, OH 43017.
Patty Anne Dunn
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature is our first two-fer.
We’ve gotten some good egret submissions lately.
Here’s a solo bird, at Deadman Brook …
(Photo/Janine Scotti)
… and a flock, from Judy Point near Saugatuck Shores:
And finally … happy 80th birthday to Colin Blunstone. He was the lead singer/ guitarist/songwriter for The Zombies. They’re in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, but remain one of the most underrated of all British Invasion groups.
(It’s the time of the season. And time to support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Don’t tell us no! Please click here. We thank you!)
As Westport debates the future of Saugatuck — including either the Hamlet residential/retail/event space/marina complex, or a 500-plus 8-30g housing complex, with 30% affordable units — Fairfield has just okayed a 478-unit development.
The Planning & Zoning Commission vote was 5-2. Commissioners said that under the state’s 8-30 affordable housing regulation, they had little choice to say yes. The development would replace the Circle Hotel on the Post Road, near Black Rock.
For 44 years, the Susan Fund has helped Fairfield County students who have been diagnosed with cancer go to college.
The low-key — but highly impactful — non-profit honors Susan Lloyd. The popular, multi-talented Staples High School graduate succumbed to bone cancer while at Colgate University, over 4 decades ago.
At its annual reception yesterday, the Susan Fund awarded 19 college scholarships to Fairfield County residents who have been diagnosed with cancer.
Among the recipients was Westporter Charlie Watson, a rising sophomore at Montclair University.
He was joined by the keynote speaker: 7-time Susan Fund recipient Ryan Caulfield. The Staples High School Class of 2017 graduate drove 7 hours — where he is finishing a doctorate in nurse anesthesiology at the University of Pittsburgh — for the event. (Click here for last year’s “06880” story on Ryan’s triumph over cancer.)
Ryan Caulfield
In high school, nursing — let alone anesthesiology — was not on Ryan’s radar.
He spent his 17th birthday in the operating room at Yale New Haven. A tumor completely occluded his left lung.
Several more procedures monitored the tumor. Then, in May of his junior year, his chest was cracked open. A 10-hour surgery successfully removed the tumor, and reconstructed his airway.
After a prolonged recovery, he found the Susan Fund while searching for scholarships. He said, “I realized they cared about my story and academic aspirations. Each year I looked forward to our meeting to share what was new in my life, and my plans after graduation.
“Listening to the stories of the speakers, and honoring and remembering Susan, constantly reinforce my resolve to become the best provider I can be. I never knew Susan, but her compassion and bravery is exemplified by this foundation and the opportunities that have been provided to each recipient to pursue their dreams.”
During its 44 years, the Susan Fund has awarded more than $2 million in scholarships to over 900 individuals. This year’s total was a record amount.
To learn more about the Susan Fund — including how to apply for a scholarship, and donate — click here.
Susan Fund 2025 awardees.
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Every year, the Levitt Pavilion introduces new acts.
But they never forget old favorites.
One of the most popular shows every year is Frank Mastrone & Friends. The singer/actor (“Cats,” “Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Miserables” and more) always delivers a Broadway-quality show.
A large crowd braved last night’s heat to enjoy this year’s edition. Bravo!
The Levitt crowd, for Frank Mastrone. (Photo/Carleigh Welsh)
Summer just started. But the Westport Country Playhouse’s interns are already hard at work.
The quartet gain real-world experience in marketing, developing, production and education. They work closely with senior staff, and join in seminars with guest artists and industry leaders.
If you see them at a show: Say hi, and welcome!
From left: Amy Shapiro, Alli Buchanan, Ena Nomoto, Kelsey McFarland.
First Folk Sunday — the popular Sunday afternoon series — begins its third season at the Saugatuck Rowing Club on July 6, with a popular draw: a tribute to Linda Ronstadt.
For decades, Suzanne Sheridan and her sister Christine Erskine have been singing the star’s songs for themselves. Now they’ll entertain an appreciative audience with them.
First Folk Sunday producer Rozanne Gates says, “You will hear 2 voices who come as close to Linda as you will get.”
They’ll be accompanied by First Folk Sunday favorites Bob Cooper (keyboards) and Tim DeHuff (guitar).
Saugatuck Rowing Club offers a First Folk Sunday brunch menu and cocktails at each of the season’s 6 shows. Doors open at noon, for the 12:30 start.
Everything But Water has moved into the old Birddogs space, at “Elm & Main” (formerly Brooks Corner).
The Orlando-based women’s retailer specializes in designer swimwear, vacation essentials and accessories.
They operate 34 stores. Westport is their third in Connecticut. The other locations are Farmington and Greenwich.
(Photo/Sal Liccione)
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Jillian Elder — one of our Westport-merch stars — is back.
She says, “Celebrate summer in style with our newest release: ‘Red, White & Westport.’ From cozy hoodies to everyday tees, tanks, mugs and more, this patriotic collection is perfect for showing off your hometown pride.
And finally … in a salute to that very intriguing sailboat spotted yesterday on the Sound (story above):
(It’s going to be a hot one today. But the coolest thing you can do is support “06880,” with a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
The Westport environmentalist — who chaired the Westport Community Gardens for over 20 years, and established the Long Lots Preserve — was honored Wednesday by Aspetuck Land Trust.
At their annual meeting, the non-profit preservation organization cited him for his work as “a leading voice in defending and restoring community green spaces … and for rescuing dozens of native shrubs and trees from the bulldozer, now replanted at ALT’s Kupinse Preserve in Easton — ensuring these natives continue to thrive and inspire.”
Make-Modern is a spot to learn and create in a variety of crafts: sewing, needlepoint, knitting, crocheting and more.
Their third location — after Darien and Greenwich — is 180 Post Road East (across Bay Street from Design Within Reach).
Make-Modern will offer summer camps, with different projects and themes “each darn week.” Students will learn to sew, bead, weave, knit, print and more.
The space can be rented for group events too, like birthday parties, bridal showers, book clubs, family reunions and nights with friends.
Make-Modern’s goal is to “inspire creativity, build self-cofidence,” and help people make new friends while creating “amazing” projects.
“Kickoff to Summer: Happy Hour Cooking Class (today, Friday; 4 to 5:30 p.m.).
“Out of the Marvelous: The Poetry of Seamus Heaney” (July 9, 16, 23; 10:30 a.m. to noon).
“At Tour and Happy Hour at the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum” (July 11, 4 to 6:30 p.m.).
“AI According to Hollywood” (July 17, 28; August 11, 25; 7 to 8 p.m.).
“All About Bees: Honey Tasting and Honeybee Preparation” (July 26, 2-3:30 p.m.).
“Creating Digital Art With Your iPad” (August 5, 12, 19, 26; 10 a.m.-noon).
“Art Tour at the Bruce Museum” (August 17, 2-3 p.m.).
The Library’s Happy Hour Cooking Class is today (Friday).
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The newest addition to the Westport Country Playhouse summer calendar is Linedy Genao.
Set for August 12 (7 p.m.), “Songs From My Sala” is an “intimate, soulful journey.”
Genao takes the audience from performing in her family’s Dominican Republic living room to starring as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s first Latina leading lady to originate a role on Broadway.
Westport has plenty of inane, gratuitous and otherwise useless signs.
For example: “School Bus Stop Ahead.” There’s a school bus stop every 10 yards in Westport, so why single any one out?
Also, those warning that violators of a certain condition — “One Hour,” “Parking for Patrons of [Insert Name] Only” — will be towed. And not just that, but “Immediately.” When was the last time that happened?
Yet this one — from the medical offices at 162 Kings Highway North — must be at the top of any list of inane Westport signs:
Isn’t any parking slippery “when icy or wet conditions exist”? (Or, simply, “when icy or wet.”)
And why illustrate with an image of a break dancer with jazz hands?
And finally … on this date in 1863, West Virginia was admitted as the 35th state in the union. It separated from Virginia, which had seceded 2 years earlier.
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Paul Newman would pop in at the Post Road East/Imperial Avenue business. He’d borrow a few bucks, for ice cream a few steps away at Baskin-Robbins.
The Westport Country Playhouse — a few steps in the other direction — was a steady customer. They brought costumes from every show before, during and after runs.
State Cleaners in 2019. It’s now Calico. (Photo/Dave Matlow for WestportNow)
Herb’s daughter Marilyn worked at State Cleaners on school vacations and holidays. She marked, bagged and ragged many of those costumes.
And dreamed of wearing them onstage.
A talented singer and dancer, Zavidow created and performed from elementary school through Greenwich High. She wrote, directed and acted in many GHS and Summer Youth Festival productions. Her friends signed her yearbook: “See you on Broadway!”
Zavidow began as a theater major at Northwestern University, then graduated with a degree in speech from Emerson College. She headed to San Francisco, for an audition with the American Conservatory Theatre.
But before that tryout, she was cast as the ingenue lead in a new musical, with a new theater company.
The plot thickened.
The company was a cult, using theater to recruit. Under a predatory leader, Zavidow was scooped up for 9 months.
Finally, she found the strength to get out. But the experience was traumatizing, and she left the theatrical world.
Marilyn Zavidow
She received a social work degree in gerontology from Boston University, then became a staff writer for a Massachusetts newspaper.
Zavidow moved on to corporations, writing semiconductor training and building strategic sales proposal teams for 3 global companies.
In 1990, she returned to Westport.
Along with a 60-hour-a-week corporate career, she began doing community theatre. She acted in Westport, New Canaan and Concord, Massachusetts.
Zavidow used her theatrical training to write one-woman shows. “Love Lessons” and “Next” were fundraisers for Bread & Roses, the home for AIDS patients in Georgetown.
She learned a lot from Ted Simons, her first musical director. They did the nursing home circuit and speciality shows. He worked on her CD of original songs, and they co-wrote the score for a children’s musical.
Simons introduced Zavidow to Manhattan voice coach John Mace. She studied with him, while he also worked with Bette Midler, Vanessa Redgrave and Natasha Richardson.
Zavidow advanced to writing and performing cabaret shows. She landed gigs at Tavern on the Green, the Russian Tea Room, Hofstra Stage, and corporate celebrations.
Her Cole Porter show was a successful fundraiser for the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum and Town Players of New Canaan. Along the way she created 3 more CDs, with Broadway and cabaret musical director Don Rebic.
Marilyn Zavidow, on stage.
Putting aside performing during and after a long period of caregiving to loved ones, Zavidow explored ancient spiritual teachings. She became a yoga teacher.
But once again, she felt an urge to create and perform. After doing stand-up workshops with Christine O’Leary at the Ridgefield Playhouse, the idea for “Karma Kabaret” was born.
Zavidow quotes Joseph Campbell: “We must let go of the life we had planned, to accept the one that is waiting for us.”
She did.
“I made my peace that there would be no Tonys, Grammys or Oscars winking at me from my étagère,” she says.
“But the creating never stops. And what you create is an expression of where you’re at in your life’s journey.
“Where I’m at now is using the art of cabaret and Broadway parody to share in an entertaining way the ideas and learnings I’m exploring to answer the big questions: What is this life all about, in this body, in this lifetime, on this earth, in this universe, in this creation of everything?”
She calls “Karma Kabaret” “kind of like Robin Williams meets Streisand meets TED Talks meets Einstein meets Buddha meets Broadway meets Zavidow. There’s even a singalong!”
‘Karma Kabaret: The Spiritual Journey and All That Jazz!’ will play to full houses tomorrow (Saturday) and July 19 in the Westport Playhouse Lucille Lortel Barn.
It’s part of their Barnstormer series. She’ll be joined by Chris Coogan on piano and John Mobilio on bass.
At this stage in her life, Zavidow says, “I just want to put some goodness out there in the world. I’m doing that with my yoga teaching at the Westport Y, and in Fairfield and Samford.
“That’s why I wrote ‘KK.’ Maybe what I’m learning on my life journey will help others on theirs.
“When people call the show soul-searching, illuminating, inspiring, thought-provoking, authentic, intelligent, insightful, poignant, witty and fun — their words! — and someone says ‘it touched my heart,’ I know I’m doing that. And that’s my statuette winking at me.”
From behind that great State Cleaners counter in the sky, Herb Zavidow may be winking too.
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Huge congratulations to the Staples High School boys lacrosse team.
That is: the state championship Staples laxmen.
The Wreckers used talent, smarts, power, poise and patience, outlasting Darien 7-6 yesterday in the “LL” (extra large schools) final at Fairfield University.
The #3-ranked Wreckers got the game-winner in the back-and-forth battle from — who else? — University of Michigan commit Adam Udell, with 1:44 to play in the 3rd quarter.
University of North Carolina-bound goalie Josh Marcus kept the#4-rated Blue Wave scoreless — and Staples did not score again — through the final period.
Coach Will Koshansky has created a juggernaut. The seniors graduate with 3 state championshps in their 4 years — and an FCIAC title the one year they were denied the Connecticut crown.
Well done, Wreckers!
From left: Senior captains Tristan Schaefer, Josh Marcus and Adam Udell, with their hardware.
Celebrating the win …
… and posing for the championship picture. (Photos/JC Martin)
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The Westport Country Playhouse’s 95th season will feature 3 plays.
Each — an Oscar Wilde comedy, a 2024 Pulitzer Prize winner and a classic Agatha Christie mystery — will run for 3 weeks.
That’s just the first act. The Playhouse will also offer 3 shorter-run events: a play based on a best-selling memoir, a family holiday show, and a big band celebration of Broadway musicals.
Wilde’s famous “The Importance of Being Earnest” kicks off the mainstage season (October 28-November 15).
“Primary Trust” — an uplifting, gentle and powerful exploration of change, friendship and quiet courage — runs April 14 to May 2.
“The Murder of Roger Ackroyd,” by Christie, closes out the 2025-26 year July 14 to August 1.
The add-on productions include Mitch Albom’s “Tuesdays with Morrie” (September 4-6), the Playhouse tradition “A Sherlock Carol” (December 13-21), and “Big Band Broadway” (January 29 to February 1).
Unless they’re the ones playing in a rock band named for the medical shorthand “Do Not Resusciate.”
The (nearly) all-doctor group entertained their many fans — some of them, perhaps, patients whose lives they’ve saved — last night, at the Westport Library.
The benefit for the Library’s programs went off without a hitch.
And finally … in honor of the Staples boys lacrosse team (story above):
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