For over 10 years, Westporters have wondered: What will the YMCA do with the Red Barn property?
Today, we know.
They’ll build the Red Barn Arena — a year-round ice rink facility — on the Wilton Road site, just off Merritt Parkway exit 20.
The project — funded by the Westport Weston Family Y, and a capital campaign — includes an NHL-regulation-size rink, spectator seating, locker rooms, a lobby and other amenities.
Computer-generated rendering of the Red Barn Ice Arena.
The design will pay homage to the Red Barn restaurant — a familiar spot for 8 decades — through architectural elements, the color palette, and preserved memorabilia (including its chandelier and iconic sign).
And of course, through the facility’s name.
Programs will include public skating, lessons, figure skating, youth and adult leagues, and summer camps.
The Red Barn Arena will also be home to Staples High School’s ice hockey teams. The boys now use Milford for practices and games; the girls’ base is in Stamford.
Another rendering.
The Y purchased the 3.2-acre parcel in 2015. It includes the restaurant building and a separate house.
It was owned by members of the Nistico family, who operated the Red Barn Restaurant from 1983 until July 2015. It had been a popular dining spot — and convenient meeting place for travelers — since the Merritt Parkway opened in the 1930s.
The Y explored many uses for the site (and fielded several requests from restaurateurs). Through member surveys and the input of an avid community group, YMCA officials decided that an ice arena would be both an important town asset, and fill a longstanding need.
It also fits with the Y’s mission: to provide recreational opportunities for individuals and families of all backgrounds and experience levels.
The Red Barn property, earlier this month. (Photo/Susan Garment)
“We couldn’t be more excited about this project,” says Westport Weston Family YMCA CEO Glen Hale.
“This facility will serve the entire town, from a child stepping on the ice for the first time to families enjoying a Friday night skate, to our high school teams finally having a home rink.”
A concrete floor can serve additional recreational purposes when the ice is not in use.
“We are grateful to the community members who have helped champion this project, and the many supporters who will help bring it to life,” Hale adds.
Russell Sherman — a project steering community member — says, “Westport is an amazing place that offers so much. But the one thing that’s always been missing since I grew up here has been a year-round ice rink for everyone to enjoy.
“The Red Barn was a place where Westport came together for decades. Now it will be again. We’re excited to create amazing memories on the same site, for generations to come.”
John McKinney is the Y’s board of trustees chair — and a fifth generation descendant of E.T. Bedford, who endowed and founded the Westport Y in 1923.
He says, “I know my family would be as excited as I am that we are building something that fits so well with our mission, and will have such a powerful impact on the community.”
Y board of directors president Juliane Sunderland says, “The Y has set a high standard for all the programs it runs. This will be no different.
“We are excited to add this facility to the Y’s offerings, and to serve even more families in Westport and the surrounding communities.”
A popular gathering spot, back in the day.
Y officials believe the Red Barn Arena will have a “positive complementary impact” on the outdoor PAL Rink at Longshore, which operates for 3 months each winter, by introducing more people to the joy of skating.
Plans for a capital campaign will be announced soon. That phase is expected to take a year and a half. Construction will take another 18 months.
Meanwhile, the Y will begin the permitting process. They note that while the current building sits in a floodplain, the new facility will be a bit away, out of that zone.
For project updates, renderings and more, click on the new website: RedBarnIceArena.com.
Once again, the Memorial Day parade is honored to honor a World War II veteran.
Herb Podel is this year’s grand marshal, for the May 25 event.
The 101-year-old longtime Westporter served in the Pacific Theater. He was attached to a Seabee unit as an aviation and electronics specialist. Their primary focus was preparation for the planned invasion of Japan.
A resident here since 1965, Herb spent decades contributing to the community through volunteerism, leadership and civic engagement. The father of 2 daughters, Alison Bricken and Jacqueline Podel, he owned a company that manufactured recreation equipment for many years.
Herb has received 2 awards from the town of Westport recognizing his volunteer efforts. He served for many years as president of the Saugatuck Senior Cooperative board. He founded and facilitated the longtime Cultural Salon discussion group in Westport, and held numerous roles at Temple Israel.
Herb now lives at The Residence at Westport. He continues to be an active member of the Westport Center for Senior Activities, where he regularly participates in classes, discussion groups, special events and community lunches.
In February of 2025, Herb Podel celebrated his 100th birthday at the Senior Center with director Wendy Petty (right) and then-2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore.
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Speaking of the Memorial Day parade: Westport groups, civic organizations and businesses interested in participating in the community event should register here. The deadline is May 17.
(Photo/Kelly Freitag)
All ages, and all kind of groups, “march” in the Memorial Day parade.
Hard to believe, but the Westport Pops Concert is now 10 years old.
From its first performance in 2016, the Staples High School-meets-Levitt Pavilion event became a beloved (and quickly sold-out) tradition.
This year’s show is Friday, June 5. Featured musicians include the nationally recognized Staples Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble One, Choralaires, Sonora, Orphenians, Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra, and small group ensembles.
James Naughton returns as emcee.
The Levitt lawn opens at 6 p.m. (BYO chair); the concert begins at 7. Tickets are free, but a donation of $15 per ticket is suggested to help offset production costs.
Tickets are available at wpsarts.org/staplesmusic on Friday, May 22 at 9 a.m.; first-come, first-served.
Westport Pops poster graphic inspired by senior Connor Yuan.
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Another great Westport tradition is also near. And it too celebrates a milestone.
The 20th annual Taste of Westport returns Wednesday, June 3 (6 p.m., Fairfield County Hunt Club). As they’ve done for 20 years, the area’s top restaurants and mixologists will host an evening of great food, drinks and community — all for a wonderful cause.
The fundraiser benefits CLASP Homes. All proceeds help provide group homes and 24/7/365 services for adults with autism and developmental disabilities.
Restaurants serving up their favorite dishes include Gabriele’s, The Bridge, Nômade, Massi Co, The Whelk, Artisan and Dandelion — and many others.
Guests will also enjoy signature cocktails, a Champagne and caviar bar, and a bourbon tasting experience. A silent auction adds to the fun.
One more event of note: A few foursomes remain for the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s 10th annual Golf for Good tournament (May 18, Aspetuck Valley Country Club).
he Westport Weston Family YMCA is proud to announce its 10th Annual Golf for Good Charity Golf Tournament, taking place on Monday, May 18, 2026 at Aspetuck Valley Country Club.
Proceeds support the Y’s Financial Assistance Program, enabling individuals and families to participate in programs regardless of financial circumstances. Funds also support youth sports and camp, Parkinson’s wellness and independence programs, cancer survivorship support, and access for veterans.
We’re not sure how many Westporters follow the Library of Congress on Twitter (aka “X”).
But it’s a good thing for “06880” that Josh Berkowsky does.
A recent tweet celebrating National Cartoonist Day (May 5 — we all missed it) gave several examples of cartoons drawn on letters by soldiers in World War II.
Two very colorful ones were sent from a Sgt. Duquette in San Francisco, to Mrs. Gerald Duquette, on Sturges Highway here.
They are not the work of Sgt. Duquette. Josh says that the Library of Congress website credits the art to his friend, Technical Sgt. Samuel Lionel Boylston of South Carolina.
The recipient is Duquette’s wife, “Mrs. Gerald Duquette.”
One more local connection: Tom Duquette is a frequent “06880” commenter. He always adds “SHS ’75” (Staples Class of 1975).
Tom: If you’re reading this, please click “Comments” to let us know the connection!
And finally … in honor of 2 World War II stories today (Herb Podel and Sgt. Duquette, above):
(We don’t want to toot our horn, but since our first “06880” in 2009, we’ve posted over 20,000 stories — and haven’t missed a day. If you enjoy our 24/7/365 work, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
In 1923, Edward T. Bedford built the YMCA, in downtown Westport.
As a boy decades earlier, he’d watched from outside as men played pool in the Westport Hotel — the social (and, in a way, geographic) center of town, at the intersection of State Street and Main Street.
The Y served anchored that spot — and provided healthy, community activities for boys and men (and later, girls and women) — for the next 90 years.
It expanded north, on Church Lane. It weathered all the changes that 9 decades bring (including the renaming of State Street to the Post Road). Through it all, a large concrete logo announced what it was, to all.
In 2013, the Y — now called the Westport Weston Family YMCA — moved to land it owned off Wilton Road, next to its Mahackeno Outdoor Center.
Anthropologie — the new tenant of the original Bedford building — kept the old logo.
It’s not very prominent. It’s propped up against a wall, inside.
But it’s still there. It was the subject of last week’s Photo Challenge (click here to see).
And Cat Malkin, Andrew Colabella, S. Jonas, Jonathan McClure, Seth Schachter, Lynn Untermeyer Miller, Tom Feeley, Sal Liccione, Katie Carmody, Richard Hyman and Matthew McGrath all knew exactly where it sits.
We’d give you a prize — like a free membership to the Y. Except:
We don’t give anything to Photo Challenge winners (beyond recognition), and
The Y is so popular, they’ve had to cap membership and start a wait list.
So instead, our winners — and everyone else — can turn their attention to this week’s Photo Challenge. (It’s more difficult.)
If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.
(Photo/Ed Simek)
(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!)
From 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Jesup Green, the sale features over 1,000 homegrown perennials, Connecticut native plants, herbs, tomatoes and Mother’s Day gifts, along with a “fancy bakeshop.” Proceeds support local civic beautification and environmental projects.
Garden Club members will advice on plant selection — and each plant is tagged with care information.
Plus: Sustainable Westport has a booth, Earthplace sponsors a children’s table with nature-inspired activities, and Book Sale Ventures offers garden-related books for sale.
The Westport Garden Club plant sale is on — rain or shine!
The event (May 28, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church Branson Hall) can help post-high school, and current or graduated college students, build networking skills and learn job search strategies.
It’s hosted by Lisa Cukier and Katie Gervasio, co-founders of the Westport Professionals Network.
For more information and to register, email WPNMixer@gmail.com.
Dozens of Little League players enjoyed Colony pizza — and a great game — at yesterday’s special Staples baseball days.
Down by 3 runs, the Wreckers scored 5 in the bottom half of the final inning — keyed by a Connor Brill’s 2-run homer — to down Fairfield Ludlowe, 11-9.
The young players chased foul balls — and autographs from their new heroes, after the game.
Little Leaguers line up at Staples. (Hat tip and photo/Beth Cody)
Among the many great programs at the Westport Weston Family YMCA, the “Knock Parkinson’s Out” program stands near the top. Twice a week, 35 boxers work with 4 trainers and 7 volunteers, to gain strength, balance and confidence, and enjoy connection.
Bob Levy is a stalwart volunteer. Recently, he gave t-shirts to everyone. The Y made a great poster out of the photo. It was unveiled this week, and now hangs on the wall outside the boxing class.
Class members, trainers and volunteers — some wearing the blue t-shirts — pose by the photo outside the boxing room.
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Emmy, Grammy and 6-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald returns to the Westport Country Playhouse May 19, for an encore evening of music
The singer/actor — a National Medal of Arts recipient, and one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People — last appeared here in February of 2024.
Only voters registered in the Democratic or Republican parties can vote then. The deadline for changing party affiliation is this Monday (May 11). To switch parties, click here, then follow the instructions.
Every month during the school year, longtime Westporter/Shakespeare scholar/former town poet laureate Diane Lowman visits Chris Cormier’s 3rd grade class at the Edison School in Bridgeport.
She teaches them a Shakespeare play. They love learning about the Bard.
But his plays were written to be seen, not read. So Diane and Chris discused how the students could see them performed.
Last year, Staples Players directors David Roth and Kerry Long, and members of the award-winning high school drama ensemble made it happen, performing scenes from “Macbeth.”
The tradition continued this week. Roth’s acting class presented scenes from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
An added bonus: Max Samuels joined them. Earlier this year, the 2011 Players alum visited Edison. This time, he invited the 3rd graders to stand on stage to try their voices at some of the most famous lines from the play (“What fools these mortals be!”).
Afterward, the high schools and youngsters ate pizza and hung out together.
With generous contributions from Westporters, the program will continue for years to come.
Staples and Edison students. Drama teacher David Roth is in the top row, far left. Diane Lowman is in the middle row, far right. (Photo/Kerry Long)
There’s always something going on at VFW Post 399.
Next Wednesday (May 13, 7 p.m.; doors open at 6), JB’s Deli & Pizza offers a full Italian men’s dinner. The menu includes antipasto, salad, sausage and peppers, penne vodka, chicken Francese, eggplant parm, traditional desserts and wine.
Westporters who donated to the care of Onyx, the retired Westport Police K-9 dog — and everyone else — will be glad to hear that the operation on her eye was successful.
And her tumor was not cancerous.
We wish Onyx a speedy recovery, and a frisky retirement. (Hat tip: Kevin Smith)
The 1984 Staples High School graduate — an attorney who earned national attention by winning lawsuits for Sandy Hook families against Remington Arms — explained the groundbreaking case that bankrupted the gun manufacture.
Senator Richard Blumenthal also spoke, praising CAGV for its grassroots, low-key but very effective advocacy work.
Candida Massimino Innaco — a Westport native and gifted musician who returned to her home town, and spent her professional life as a music teacher in the school district — died April 28 in Bridgeport. She was 65.
After Hillspoint Elementary, Long Lots Junior High and Staples High School, the Class of 1978 graduate earned a bachelor of arts in music education from the University of Dayton, and a master of music in saxophone performance from Kansas State University.
She played in bands outside of the university too, including Dixieland and the Fred Robinson Big Band.
Candi dedicated over 35 years to music education in the Westport Public Schools, retiring in 2021. She taught concert band at Bedford Middle School, served as assistant band director at Staples, and band director at Saugatuck Elementary School.
She also directed chamber music and provided private instruction at the high school in support of the concert band, jazz ensemble, and chamber groups. Additionally, she pioneered and coordinated the Westport Youth Arts Collaborative.
Teaching in her hometown was especially meaningful to Candi. She believed“You can’t teach the child until you reach the child,” a principle that shaped her approach to music and mentorship.
Outside of her career, Candida was active in fitness and wellness. She participated in Thrive, a nonprofit that provides supportive care to those facing cancer like herself.
She shared resources with others through her initiative, “Candi’s Corner.” She enjoyed cooking, gardening, publishing music, maintaining an active lifestyle, and caring for animals, especially cats.
Candi is survived by her husband, Curtis, and children Christopher, Olivia and Serena.
Friends are invited to a visitation on Tuesday (May 12, 5 to 8 p.m., Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe_). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, May 13 (10 a.m., St. Lawrence Parish,505 Shelton Ave, Shelton).
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oncology Fund at Smilow Cancer Center.
Candida Innaco
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Most of our “Westport … Naturally” egret photos show them standing around on spindly legs, looking handsome but stationary. Occasionally they might wade.
But Gabriela Hayes spotted this egret in flight, making the most of a Compo Beach low tide.
The bird’s reflection makes this image twice as cool.
And finally … yes, as we noted earlier, today’s Westport Garden Club plant sale is on — rain or shine. So …
(Rain or shine, day and night, “06880” is here for you. And any time — 24/7/365 — you can support our work. Just click here. There will be no sound of silence; instead, you’ll get a nice thank-you email!)
Next Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (April 27, 6 p.m.; Zoom) will begin with the consideration of a pre-application that’s been discussed for a while.
Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella will initiate discussion of a fenced dog area at Winslow Park. It would be located near the end of the asphalt walkway, in the area where construction equipment was staged a couple of years ago.
There would be one section for small dogs, another for large ones.
A pre-app is an informal, preliminary review process for a proposed project. It’s a way to present a conceptual plan and receive early feedback, before formally filing a special permit or site plan application.
There are currently on- and off-leash sections of Winslow Park — but no special fenced-in area. (Photo/Mark Mathias)
Speaking of the great outdoors: Yesterday was Earth Day.
As she has done for over 20 years, longtime Westporter and environmental advocate Rindy Higgins cleaned up garbage at Canal Beach (after a full day of substitute teaching at Coleytown Middle School).
She reports: “Finding mostly paper scraps, tar chunks, an odd large jar full of dirt topped with a lid like a terrarium, and some plastic bits and bobs, I’m glad to announce there is much less this year than in the past!”
Next year, let’s put Rindy out of a job. (Clean-up, that is — not teaching.)
An update on an ongoing accessory dwelling unit (ADA) case:
In January, the Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously denied an appeal of a previous Planning & Zoning Commission decision, to allow construction of an ADU at 21 Norwalk Avenue.
Adjacent Compo Beach neighborhood property owners David Johnson and Holly Jaffe had objected to the ADU, based on its 26-foot height and location 10 feet from the existing house. (Click here for a previous “06880” story on this issue.)
James Ezzes, ZBA chair, wrote that zoning regulations in effect at the time of the application allow construct of accessory dwelling units as of right; the proposed plans conform to the definite of an ADU and all applicable standards; regulations allow a 350-square foot coverage exemption for lots of 1.5 acres or less; and the zoning enforcement officer does not have discretion in the review of permits.
With a suit pending in Superior Court (set to be heard in August), alleging that the Zoning Board of Appeals erroneously approved the permit, Johnson and Jaffe requested an injunction to prevent construction. A judge will rule on that motion on April 29.
This week, however, work began on the new structure.
Construction begins at 21 Norwalk Avenue.
Meanwhile, the P&Z has already revised regulations for ADUs in small lots. They removed a 350-foot exemption on lots of 1.5 acres and less. The lot in question (above) is .11 acre.
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“Affordability” — a hot topic nationally these days — is the theme of this year’s 10th annual Westport Woman’s Club Art Show.
Sixteen local artists — with works curated by Miggs Burroughs — kicks off with an opening reception today (Thursday, 4 to 7 p.m.). The exhibit continues Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26 (2 to 5 p.m.).
Artists include Robin Babbin, John Bygott, Bonnie Edelman, Susan Fehlinger, Hernan Garcia, Rachel Hall, Elisa Keogh, Shelley Lowenstein, Paula Morgan, Larry Morse, Jon Puzzuoli, Butch Quick, Jodi Rabinowitz, Cindy Wagner and Tammy Winser.
Guest artist Sean Keating will show work in the drawing room, where small works donated by the participating artists as chance prizes will be on display.
This year’s show honors the memory of Jo Fuchs Luscombe. The former WWC president — who also served as state representative, 3rd selectwoman and Zoning Board of Appeals chair — died last year.
Net proceeds benefit local community service organizations, and need-based scholarships.
The Westport Weston Family YMCA is all about health for all — especially youth.
So it’s a no-brainer for them to invite everyone to Healthy Kids Day (April 25, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.).
Part of a national Y program, Healthy Kids Day highlights the importance of nutritious eating, physical activity, mental resilience, and developing lifelong healthy habits.
The event includes mini-classes, food trucks with healthy options, a bounce house, water safety demonstrations, and community vendors and partners.
“Art, Jazz + the Blues” — MoCA\CT’s current exhibition — is open through June 7. It’s visually expansive, and the music it evokes is equally broad and inspiring.
But that’s far from the only reason to visit the Newtown Turnpike gallery.
A host of activities complements, draws upon and adds to the exhibit. For example:
East Coast Contemporary Ballet Salon Series (tonight, Thursday, 7:30 p.m.).
Teen Open Mic Night (April 30, 6 p.m.)
Inside Art & Jazz with WPKN’s Richard Epstein and Jim Motavalli (May 2, 6 p.m.)
Intuitive Painting: Analyzing Your Creative Flow with Melissa Benedek (May 3, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.)
1 Degree of Separation: Jazz in Connecticut — A Conversation with Yale School of Music’s Tom Duffy & Wayne Escoffery (May 7, 6 p.m.)
Mother’s Day at MoCA\CT (May 10, 12 to 5 p.m.)
Sound Bath Meditation with Hummingbird Healing Arts’ Lisa Pak (May 12, June 30, July 14, 6 to 7 p.m.)
Westport Writers’ Workshop at MoCA\CT (May 14, 6 p.m.)
Camp MoCA Open House (May 16, 9:30 to 11 a.m.)
Karisa Chiu, Violin, and Frederic Chiu, Piano (May 16, 7 p.m.)
Lewis Black is an upcoming Westport Country Playhouse attraction.
Well, he won’t be on stage. But the comedian has written a lively, insightful comedy — “One Slight Hitch” — that is the next Script in Hand reading.
It’s set for Monday, May 4 (7 p.m.).
His inspiration was a wedding invitation from a woman he had dated years earlier.
“That really blew my mind,” Black says. “I thought, ‘What if I did go?’ That was the beginning of the idea: What would happen if someone from the past suddenly showed up on a day that’s supposed to be completely planned out?”
“Everyone loves Lewis Black for his razor-sharp stand-up, his incredibly funny books, and his unforgettable appearances on ‘The Daily Showm’” says Mark Shanahan, Script in Hand series curator and Playhouse artistic director.
“But he’s also a remarkably funny playwright, and ‘One Slight Hitch’ proves it.”
The face “feels both wildly entertaining and all too familiar to anyone who’s ever navigated family, love, or the chaos of a wedding day.”
Born 16 weeks prematurely, doctors said he would be blind, and never walk.
He proved them very, very wrong.
Buoyed by support from his parents and sister, and many others — including eye doctors and occupational, speech and physical therapists — he survived.
At Staples High he ran cross country, and competed in indoor and outdoor track. He graduated in 2017.
But that was just the start.
Daniel ran 4 marathons. He got his undergraduate degree in human services from Beacon College, and pursued a master’s through the University of Vermont. in physical activity and wellness science.
The other day, Daniel provided this update:
“I believe that in our digitally connected world, we might be missing out on human support and contact.
“I saw the challenges my fellow neurodiverse individuals and I face in that digital world. My solution is developing a local neurodiverse mentoring community.
“Because resources are commonly developed and brought about from a neurotypical perspective, while well-intentioned they unfortunately often fail to support individual goals of people they are meant to serve.
“I offer personalized coaching for teen and young adult neurodivergents. Across several levels of functioning. my support from an empathetic perspective helps people achieve their goals and navigate their lives, from daily routines and indepedence to fitness and school.
“My background as a neurodiverse individual, and my professional experience as a paraeducator and fitness coach allow me to help. But my most important credential is my lived experience.”
For more information, email danielimaya@gmail.com; call 203-644-6877, or click here.
Daniel Maya
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Pop Shop Market offers a special pre-Mother’s Day event, with local vendors showcasing fashion, accessories, home goods and more.
It’s May 2 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Westport Museum for History & Culture).
Other gift ideas include graduations and teacher appreciation.
David Aasen — a 1974 Staples graduate whose interest in foreign affairs led him to a long career as a field manager, policy analyst and representative of international organizations in the Middle East, Africa and Europe — died of natural causes on April 7, in Dubai. He was 69.
A resident of Mombasa, Kenya, David had expertise in governance,
democratization, and relations between non-governmental organizations and the
media. He worked to make the world better and safer, in places many would have thought too broken to fix.
David worked for the United Nations, US State Department, Organization of African Unity, and Organization of American States.
Previously, he served as a long-time program officer for Amnesty International USA. Field assignments included reporting on civil conflict in Sudan, coordinating electoral assistance in Haiti and relief aid in Somalia, monitoring elections in the Republics of the Congo and Angola, and overseeing refugee repatriation projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
David spoke French, Spanish, Portuguese and Arabic.
After Staples High School, David earned a BA in international affairs from George Washington University. He also received certificates in mass media from Stanford University, and international peacekeeping from the Inter-American Defense College.
He was predeceased by his parents, Martha and Lawrence Aasen. He is
survived by his sister Susan Aasen (David), of Rockland, Maine.
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The Longshore golf course is up and running … and ready to shine, as the featured photo in today’s “Westport … Naturally” daily series.
And finally … Dave Mason, who had success both with Traffic and as a solo artist, died Sunday. He was 79.
Mason — inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, with Traffic — headlined more than once at the Levitt Pavilion. His most recent appearance there was a 2017 fundraiser.
In his long career, he played with Paul McCartney, George Harrison, the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Michael Jackson, David Crosby, Graham Nash, Steve Winwood, Fleetwood Mac, Delaney & Bonnie and Cass Elliott.
Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world. From local news and upcoming events to a connection you forgot or never knew, we’re here for you, 24/7/365. Please click here to support us. Thanks!)
The weather was spectacular yesterday, as 525 new fish were restocked in Lees Pond.
The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection effort, at the Westport Weston Family YMCA property on the Saugatuck River, will result in thousands of alewife eggs, for repopulation of the pond and river.
The Y plans to make this an annual event. For details on the effect this will have on the entire food chain — including birds of prey — click here.
State workers restocked Lees Pond yesterday …
… with help from youngsters, part of the Y’s spring break camp.
Speaking of politics: Alma Sarelli has joined the race to succeed Ceci Maher, as state senator from Connecticut’s 26th District. The district includes Westport, Weston and 5 other towns.
The Representative Town Meeting member serves on their Public Protection, Education, Parks and Recreation, and Planning & Zoning Committees. She is secretary of Westport’s Republican Town Committee, and president of Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport.
Sarelli cited affordability, local decision-making, public safety, support for small businesses, educational excellence and fiscal responsibility as areas of emphasis.
She majored in business management at Berkeley College in New York. She and her husband own an event entertainment production company.
This is her second run for the General Assembly. In 2022, Sarelli lost to incumbent Jonathan Steinberg in the 136th State Representative district race.
Every Sunday, the New York Times Business section’s “Corner Office” features an interview with a C-suite executive. He or she discussed the challenges (and, occasionally, joys) of the position, the company and the industry
Last weekend, the spotlight was on Peter Stern.
He’s the CEO of Peloton. He’s also a 1990 graduate of Staples High School (and a varsity soccer alum).
After Harvard University — where he majored in English and music — Stern co-founded Apple Fitness+, was president of Ford Integrated Services, and held high positions with Time Warner Cable.
The Times interview covers Peloton’s rapid growth during the pandemic; expansion beyond cardio into yoga, strength and other workouts; 2 rounds of layoffs; reaction to tariffs, and more.
Stern also gives a shoutout to his mother, and notes her work as a fitness instructor with the classic 1980s Westport business Nancy Strong’s Aerobic Slimnastics.
He made mixtapes for her, on his boombox. “In retrospect, it was likely a massive copyright violation,” he notes.
Giuseppe Cinque’s restaurant opposite Design Within Reach — one of Westport’s best Italian spots, in a town filled with them — builds on what was there before.
Cinque — an experienced restaurateur — upgraded the kitchen. He lightened the interior. He hired 2 very experienced chefs. He reworked the menu, taking advantage of daily trips to nearby markets.
The result shows. Finalmente is often packed.
Now that the weather is better, it should be even more popular.
Finally — finalmente! — Cinque’s dream restaurant is coming true.
From Finalmente.
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On Monday (April 20, 6 p.m., Zoom and Optimum Channel 79), the Planning & Zoning Commission will discuss Text Amendment #866.
The proposal would remove references to the maximum number of stories permittedin various residential zoning districts, and regulate building scale solely by maximum building height in feet.
P&Z director Michelle Perillie says, “The current regulation on building height is onerous to both applicants and staff. This change will simplify the process which retaining neighborhood scale.”
Click here, then scroll down to Text Amendment #866 for more information.
Is that an actual third floor?
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Leonard Bernstein — the multifaceted composer, conductor, pianist, educator, author and political activist — continues to fascinate the American public.
On April 24 — 5 years after “Bernstein’s Wall” premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival — the documentary is set for its US theatrical premiere, at New York’s Film Forum.
Directed by Douglas Tirola, and produced by Susan Bedusa — both Staples High School graduates — the film uses Bernstein’s 1989 Christmas Day “Ode to Joy” concert in Berlin as a frame.
Tirola crafts Bernstein’s remarkable career entire from television interviews, news footage, home movies, audio clips and personal letters.
Variety calls it “galvanizing. (It) captures how Leonard Bernstein became the superstar of American high culture (who evolved) into a towering figure …. What the documentary captures, profoundly, is that Leonard Bernstein was a fierce hedonist who worked hard to live the life he wanted.”
The deadline to transfer from one political party to the other — and be eligible to vote i a state or district primary with a new party — is May 11 (4:30 p.m.).
Voters can change parties in person at the Registrars’ Office in Town Hall (Room 107), or online here.
Questions? Contact Democratic Registrar of Voters Deborah Greenberg (dgreenberg@westportct.gov; 203-341-1116) or Republican Registrar of Voters Maria Louise Signore: msignore@westportct.gov; 203-341-1117.
It’s time to toot the Jazz Society of Fairfield County’s horn — and promote their important upcoming fundraiser.
“JazzFC” presents the wildly popular “Jazz at the Post” series every Thursday. Musicians — some internationally famous — play 2 great shows at VFW Post 399. The price is low; the talent level very, very high.
But Jazz FC does much more. Among their projects: workshops for youth and aspiring professional musicians, as well as the local underserved community in senior citizen residences and community centers.
They also administer the Micky Golomb Scholarship, awarding up to $10,000 annually to students who concentrate in jazz studies.
To fund those endeavors, they’re sponsoring a “Jazz Cruise by the Saugatuck” (April 23, 6 to 10 p.m.). NOTE: It’s at the VFW, not actually on the river.
The Senior Center’s vitrines showcase a variety of sculptors. Every 6 weeks, the display changes. Ten percent of all sales support the Center.
To complement the exhibits, curator Mark Yurkiw has organized a series of talks. The first — this Friday (April 17, 11 a.m.) — features Bob Braczyk, whose work is inspired by the natural and manmade environments of New England. Call 203-341-5099 to register for the event.
Sculptor Bob Braczyk.
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Westport has hurricanes and blizzards. We’ve got superstorms and nor’easters.
We don’t have earthquakes.
Except, we do.
The eastern US has surprisingly active seismic history. And although we’re in no danger of a San Andreas Fault-sized Big One, every so often the earth shakes, the dishes rattle, and we wonder, “Was that an earthquake?”
On April 21 (8 p.m.), Professor Alan Kafka — one of the nation’s leading earthquake scientists — comes to the Westport Observatory for a lecture on “The Mystery of Earthquakes in the Eastern United States.”
Just over 2 years ago — in early April 2024 — Westporters felt a strong (for here) earthquake. (Data courtesy of Franco Fellah)
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Last Sunday was Greek Orthodox Easter.
In honor of all who celebrate, today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo shows a colorful arrangement of Greek Easter flowers, by Sophie Tricarico.
(Photo/Joan Tricarico)
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And finally … in honor of Doug Tirola’s Leonard Bernstein documentary (story above):
(There’s a place for us — right here at “06880.” If you enjoy our daily Roundup — or any other feature, our stories, photos, whatever — please click here to support our work. Cool!)
For nearly a century the Westport Weston Family YMCA has been a careful steward of their Mahackeno property, off Wilton Road.
They own the woods — and the land under the water. In effect, they own Lees Pond.
Over the past few years, Camp Mahackeno staff have noticed fewer fish in the pond. (Fishing is part of the summer program — though every catch is released back in the water.)
Last year, Y officials worked with the state Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) to repair the fish ladder downriver. That would help.
Lees Dam, on the Saugatuck River (Photo/Scott Smith)
But when Y CEO Glen Hale learned that DEEP has a free restocking program, he realized much more could be done.
This morning, DEEP will bring 500 to 1,000 river herring — a type of alewife — to Lees Pond.
This stretch of the Saugatuck River will be restocked today. (Photo/Tracy Porosoff)
There will be many more happy campers this summer.
But the benefits go far beyond fishing.
Juvenile river herring eat plankton. That decreases algae, and makes the water cleaner.
Alewives are an important part of the food chain. Bass and bluefish eat them, so their numbers will increase. Then birds like bald eagles and osprey feast on those fish, keeping the food chain balanced.
Today’s restocking comes at a propitious time. Westport schools are on spring break, so dozens of youngsters at the Y’s vacation camp will take part.
They’ll have their own nets to help with the project. And DEEP biologists will teach them about river herring, and the entire food chain.
River herring
Hale is excited about the restocking, and proud of the Y’s part in it.
He hopes to make it a regular occurrence.
Young fishermen — and older ones too — will be happy to hear that.
Bass, bluefish, bald eagles, osprey and many other forms of wildlife will too.
(“06880” regularly covers the environment, our waterways — and the YMCA, Westport youth, and much more. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Longtime Westport resident and active civic volunteer Joan Nathan died peacefully on April 2. She was 97.
The Trenton, New Jersey native earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bryn Mawr College, and a master’s in educational psychology from Columbia University. She met her husband Marvin in New York City. They married in 1951, and moved with their 4 children to Westport in 1964.
Her early career years were spent at Sears Roebuck as director of personnel testing. She resumed her vocation in 1970 with Westport’s Youth Adult Council, as director of job and volunteer placement.
Joan nurtured deep connections with friends and family which she nurtured throughout her life. She spent long, happy pre-computer hours on the pool deck at the Westport YMCA during swim meets; grilling hot dogs at the Little League concession stand; cheering from the hill at Staples soccer games and at Water Rats and Staples swim meets — plus hours of driving to every event her kids took part in up and down the East Coast, with her golden retriever Curry (and then Charlie) by her side.
On a 40th anniversary trip to Copenhagen, Marv died of a heart attack. With formidable inner strength and calm, Joan began a new chapter rebuilding her life in Westport.
Joan Nathan
An early member of Y’s Women, she soon became treasurer. She also produced their newsletter, and explored many interests through the group.
Her community at Winslow Park, growing family and friends bolstered her strength. Her dedication to women’s health and reproductive rights — a steadfast commitment to the legacy of her mother, a pioneering obstetrician/gynecologist — carried her through challenging times, and formed the foundation of her new life.
In her work and in parenthood, Joan’s ability to listen in earnest; her deep capacity for care; her emphasis on individual agency, and her genuine curiosity about people and their stories were all constants. She cared first and foremost about the worth and dignity of all.
She will be remembered by her children and grandchildren as someone who leaned into life with an open heart and an inquisitive mind – qualities that led to her lifelong love of the arts, travel, politics, and the New York Times crossword puzzle. Her continuous evolution in thoughts, ideas, perspectives and taste made her a wise confidante across generations.
Joan is survived by her children Ellen, Barbara (Chris), Rob and John (Ruby), and grandchildren Stacey, Tara, Misty, Jonathan, June and Frances.
In accordance with Joan’s wishes, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to plannedparenthood.org. or a charity of choice supporting women’s health and reproductive rights.
A red tulip is used as a symbol of hope and strength, for those living with the disease.
It is also the theme of a small book, with a big heart.
“The Little Parkinson’s Book of Positivity and Joy” was written by Westport Weston Family YMCA member Kathleen Featherston. It was featured on the Michael J. Fox Foundation website, and will be showcased next month at the World Parkinson’s Congress in Phoenix.
It describes her deeply personal, inspiring journey through life with Parkinson’s. It’s one not of despair, but resilience, grace, and a profound appreciation for life’s simplest blessings.
Kathleen Featherston, with her book.
Kathleen’s diagnosis in 2021 changed her life. But instead of retreating into fear and uncertainty, she made a choice to look up.
She laced up boxing gloves — literally — at the Westport Y. Their Parkinson’s program includes boxing, dance and speech classes.
Kathleen discovered that physical movement could be both medicine and metaphor. Each punch thrown, each round survived, was a declaration: “I am still here. I am still fighting. I am still full of joy.”
Kathleen Featherston fights against Parkinson’s.
From that spirit, her book was born. It is not a clinical guide or a sympathy card. Instead, it is “a companion — a tiny book full of enormous light, for anyone who needs a reminder that joy waits in the small moments.”
“The Little Parkinson’s Book of Positivity and Joy” can be purchased on Kathleen’s website, Amazon, The Post (1799 Post Road East) and CoCo & Company in Southport.
All proceeds go to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, and Parkinson’s Body and Mind — a local non-profit that has partnered with the Westport Y’s Parkinson’s program.
The Y and Parkinson’s Body & Mind are teaming up once again for the Michael J. Fox Unity Walk in New York, April 25.
Contact the Y to join the walk, and raise money for the Michael J. Fox Foundation. (Hat tip: Bob Levy)
(“06880” regularly highlights Westporters doing remarkable things. If you enjoy stories like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
A second Westport Republican has announced a run for statewide office.
Planning & Zoning Commission member John Bolton has filed for the attorney general race, Kevin Rennie’s Daily Ructions reports.
He joins Jen Tooker. The former 1st selectwoman is running for comptroller.
Bolton is “unlikely to face any competition for the Republican nomination for the job when it meets in May to select a candidate,” the political news source reports.
And to ensure that the vegan/feminist/iconic Bridgeport restaurant — co-founded by Westporter Selma Miriam — the very popular Bloodroot Giant Tag Sale returns this week.
On Friday and Saturday (March 27-28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 85 Ferris Street, Bridgeport), tons of Bloodroot “stuff” will be on sale.
For example: vintage and antique tables, chairs, bookcases, and other furniture; vintage pine farmhouse style bins, cubbies and bookshelves; high quality looms and spinning wheels; patio furniture, outdoor tables and outdoor chairs; stone and concrete benches; vintage and mid-century lamps; farmhouse-style pendant lighting and ceiling lamps.
Plus books and paper ephemera with LGBTQ, feminist and vegetarian themes; original signed art (prints, sculptures, photos and posters); antique and vintage china, glassware and tableware; tools and office supplies; pots, pans, cooking supplies and restaurant equipment; household items, clothing, shoes, fabrics — “pretty much everything under the sun.”
The Bloodroot tag sale crew (from left): Lauren, Noel, Sarah, Stephanie and Marina.
There are plenty of grandparents — with grandchildren — in Westport.
On Saturday, May 2 (1 to 3 p.m., Westport Weston Family YMCA), they’ll have a chance to play together — without screens.
The pilot program, called Grand Play Day, brings together grandparents and their grandkids (ages 5-12). Using simple tools (question cards, paper-and-pencil table games and other easy activities), they’ll laugh and share stories.
Grand Play Day is built on “Connections Thru Play,” created by Playocracy founder Lynn Campanella in partnership with the National Institute for Play — where Joe Miller, a member of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston, serves as a volunteer executive.
The event will be facilitated by Campanella and Miller, include academic input from professors of Childhood Development and Aging, and serve as a potential model for other community groups.
MoCA\CT is seeking ideas for Ellen Harvey’s upcoming exhibit, “The Disappointed Tourist.”
Is there a place you wish you could revisit — a landmark, neighborhood or gathering spot that has disappeared?
Harvey has asked that question around the world, transforming hundreds of public memories into a haunting series of paintings that reimagine sites erased by time, tides or bulldozers.
From June 25 through August 2, she brings her project to MoCA\CT.
Nominations close April 25. Harvey will select 4 sites to immortalize in paint.
Click here to submit an idea, or explore existing works and stories from around the world,
Ellen Harvey in front of a portion of “The Disappointed Tourist.”
“Primary Trust” — the 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning play about change, friendship quiet courage and mai tais — comes to the Westport Country Playhouse next month.
Trumpeter/composer/arranger Michael Mossman has apprenticed with Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie and Art Blakey. He’s performed and recorded with Tito Puente and many other greats.
Pianist Zaccai Curtis is an acclaimed recording artist and producer. The Curtis Brothers Band, which he leads with his brother Luques, was earned a 2025 Grammy Award for Best Latin Jazz Album.
They — and bassist Edward Perez, drummer David Alvarez, percussionist Marlon Sobol and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall — take over VFW Post 399 this Thursday (March 26, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.), for this week’s “Jazz at the Post.”
And finally … on this date in 1721, Johann Sebastian Bach dedicated what are now called the Brandenburg Concertos to Margrave Christian Ludwig of Brandenburg-Schwedt.
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