Sophie B. Hawkins — platinum-selling international artist; Best New Artist Grammy nominee in 1992; painter; ardent environmentalist; LGBTQ+ and animal rights advocate — is also a Westporter.
And she’s as passionate about our town as anyone I know.
The other day, Sophie and I chatted at the Westport Library — a place she knows well, from performing and recording. It was a wide-ranging, warm conversation.
Click below to listen, and learn more about Sophie B. Hawkins and her town.
The pedestrian struck by a motorist on Saturday night has died.
Matthew Balga of Norwalk succumbed at Norwalk Hospital, He was 54.
The Riverside Avenue crash, near the William F. Cribari Bridge, remains under investigation by Westport police, assisted by the Fairfield Accident Team.
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Johnny Cash is coming to Westport.
Well, not exactly. The Man in Black has been dead nearly 20 years.
But Johnny Folsom 4 — a great tribute band — headlines the next “Supper & Soul” concert. It’s Saturday, May 13, at the Westport Library.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event is tons of fun. For $85 a ticket, you get a 3-course dinner at one of 11 downtown restaurants, plus the show.
After the concert, show your ticket at any of the restaurants, and get happy hour pricing on drinks.
Participating restaurants include 190 Main, Arezzo, Basso, Capuli, Casa me, De Tapas, Don Memo, Nômade, Spotted Horse, Goji and Walrus Alley.
Click here for tickets, and more information. (Concert-only tickets are available too — they’re $35.
Johnny Cash was famous for playing in prisons. This may be his — well, his tribute band’s — first library gig.
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Alert “06880” reader — and nearby Winslow Park neighbor — Dick Truitt writes:
“Just inside the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot entrance to the Winslow Park dog run is a box containing a defibrillator, placed there to help save people who suffer emergency heart issues.
“The box has gathered filth over the years. But the bin on top has been a sort of lifesaver itself to folks who might find they have lost small and sometimes critical items in the vast park. It’s the informal “lost and found” headquarters.
“The other day it contained a pair of glasses, a right-hand glove, a tube of lip balm, a military-style dog tag, 3 key tags and, most importantly, 4 residential-style keys — all apparently from someone’s front door.
“A dog walker reported that there is a regular turnover of items in the bin. She noted, however, that no one has yet showed up with a brush and bottle of soap.”
Lost and found at Winslow Park. (Photo/Dick Truitt)
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Meanwhile, over at Grace Salmon Park off Imperial Avenue, paintings have mysteriously been hung on trees and placed on benches.
It’s a mystery. Or course, this being Westport, it’s an artistic one.
Here’s the latest scene:
(Photo/Paul Delano)
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Nick Diamond was a varsity soccer player at Staples High School. After graduating in 2004, he moved to Seattle.
Nick’s 3-year-old son Noah was recently diagnosed with Sanfilippo Syndrome. Known also as “childhood Alzheimer’s,” it is a rare and terminal disease.
With continued research and advocacy, a cure is possible. Nick and his wife Kristen organized Plunge for a Cure, o raise awareness and funds to support the fight against this disease.
Philip Halpert — Nick’s best friend from Staples — took the plunge yesterday at Compo Beach. His wife Carrie joined in.
Philip Halpert takes the plunge.
To learn more about the plunge — and contribute — click here. (David Halpert)
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We seldom think about it, but nearly everything we rely on in our homes — clocks, speakers, kitchen equipment, even toys — contains silicon chips.
David Pogue thinks about it. And because CBS pays him to think about — and explain — things like this, chips were the focus of his story yesterday on “Sunday Morning.”
What makes his piece “06880”-worthy — besides the fact that he is our Westport neighbor — is that when he needed props (to smash with a hammer), he headed to our local Goodwill.
He found all the chip-stuffed stuff he needed. And spent a grand total of $9 on it.
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“Westport … Naturally” has highlighted many types of living things. Today’s Compo Beach feature, though, is a first:
(Photo/Monica Buesser)
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And finally … speaking of starfish on the beach:
(It’s always the season to support “06880.” Please click here to contribute — and thank you!)
Just over a year ago — when we turned 13 — “06880” became a non-profit.
Our mission is to “create a community for Westporters old and new, near and far, through sharing stories, news, events, history and perspectives, uniting all who love our hometown.”
It’s been quite a year.
In the past 12 months, we’ve:
“06880” helped make Christmas a little happier for 491 children in Lyman, Ukraine.
That’s in addition to churning out several stories a day on town issues, history, organizations, personalities, arts, sports, businesses, opinions, trends and more.
Plus the daily Roundup, Pic of the Day, Unsung Hero, Friday Flashback and Photo Challenge.
“06880” is free to read. There’s no subscription or paywall.
But it’s not free to produce.
Since my first post in March of 2009 — 14 years ago — “06880” has become my full-time job. I spend 6 to 8 hours a day on every aspect of it.
Taking a quick break from “06880” duties. (Photo/Pam Einarsen)
I conduct interviews and research. I take, find and edit photos. I moderate the comments (152,000 now, and counting). I answer every email.
I also write all of those 3 to 5 (or more) stories a day. Since that very first post 14 years ago yesterday, I have not missed a single day. That’s over 15,600 (and counting).
“06880” also pays for web hosting, software, bank fees, the Stroll and holiday party — and, hopefully this year, research and writing help.
Which brings us to our annual appeal.
This year’s is special.
With our 501 (c)(3) status, we now offer tax-deductibility to the extent allowed by law. In addition to individual contributions, we can accept corporate matching funds, and foundation grants.
You can donate by PayPal or credit card: click here. It’s easy, safe — and you don’t even need a PayPal account.
Checks can be mailed to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881.
We’re also on Venmo: @blog06880
You can even scan this QR code:
Many 14-year-olds forget to write thank-you notes. We won’t.
Thank you!
Posted in Categories
The end for Gloria, Alan Sterling’s beloved oyster boat (Photo/Patricia McMahon)
Posted in Beach, Environment, Pic of the Day
Tagged Gloria, Gloria oyster boat, Gray's Creek
There’s an old saying: “No publicity is bad publicity. Just spell my name right.”
A corollary might be: “It doesn’t matter if you’re the ugliest building in Westport. Everyone knows you.”
Everyone — well, 24 readers, which is a ton for this contest — recognized last week’s Photo Challenge.
Ed Simek’s shot showed the sculpture that — for half a century or so — has sat on the side of what nearly everyone who has seen it calls “the ugliest building in Westport.” (Click here to see.)
And — because the location in the heart of Saugatuck, near the train station, by Exit 17, a few yards from I-95 — is so visible, at some point everyone sees it.
Readers described it in many ways: near the old Arrow restaurant, across from the now-closed Tarry Lodge, by the station, next to Luciano Park, even (most accurately) 21 Charles Street.
No one though said, “Hey, the building is beautiful!”
A few folks pointed out that the artwork’s creator — Harvey Weiss — is a noted sculptor.
A few also asked what would happen to the building if the Hamlet at Saugatuck project is approved.
The bad news: It’s not going anywhere.
The good news: It will be re-skinned.
Congratulations to Fred Cantor, John Richers, Elaine Marino, Bill Dohme, Lynn Untermeyer Miller, Kate Caputo Squyres, Vanessa Bradford, Scott Brodie, Ken Stamm, Peter Barlow, Lucy Kiermaier, Bobbie Herman, Kenny Gilbertie, Suzanne Warner Raboy, Alicia Kaye Kronick, Tom Feeley, John Lisee, Richard Hyman, Clay Yalof, Brooks Sumberg, Michael Calise, Amy Schneider, Sharon Paulsen and Howard Potter.
You sure know ugly when you see it.
This week’s Photo Challenge shows a handsome grandfather clock. If you know where in Westport you’d find it, click “Comments” below.
(Photo/Tom Lowrie)
Last night’s Fashionably Westport benefit drew hundreds of guests to the Westport Library — and raised thousands of dollars for Homes with Hope.
The Westport Downtown Association-sponsored event featured over 60 models, in apparel from 21 local stores. Their hair and makeup was done by 6 salons.
A ton of work by tons of folks made last night a success. Thanks to all who pitched in, for fun and — more importantly — helping people in need of shelter and food.
The Westport Library’s Trefz Forum became a runway for the night.
First Selectwoman Jen Tooker and social media influencer Zac Mathias pose, before their star turns as models.
Andrew Colabella, Viviana Vasiu and Diane Lowman look sharp.
Not models — but they could have been. (All photos/Dan Woog)
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A motor vehicle/pedestrian accident at 11:30 last night sent a man to Norwalk Hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Westport Police report he was struck by a southbound vehicle near 575 Riverside Avenue, the area of The Whelk and Saugatuck Sweets.
The operator of the vehicle remained at the scene, and is fully cooperating, as an investigation continues.
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As the calendar sprints (or slogs) toward spring, The Joggers Club offers this incentive: a free trial membership in March. For information, email TheJoggersClub@gmail.com.
The group — which emphasizes fun and friendship, for all levels — offers:
Fun Runs: Every Saturday 8 a.m. at Compo Beach; $50 for the season, and a free Brooks running shirt for all new members. Each run is followed by coffee and treats from McDonald’s and Village Bagels.
Track Nights: Every Thursday, 6:15 p.m., Norwalk High School (included in membership)
Running Camp (Sundays, April 23 to June 11, 2 to 3:15 p.m. at the Staples High School track; kindergarten through 8th grade; $75 for members, $125 for non-members; only 10 spots left).
The Joggers Club also notes these upcoming races:
25k Boston Build-up.
United Airlines NYC Half: Run across Times Square and loop Central Park — with no cars.
Minute Man 10k: A Joggers Club favorite. The most beautiful course in New England; help support the great Westport Young Woman’s League.
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Club 203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — celebrates St. Patrick’s Day at The Porch @ Christie’s (March 16, 6:30 to 8 p.m.).
It’s a perfect place. The Cross Highway spot has always offered training and employment to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities — and all pastries come from Sweet P Bakery, which does the same.
Click here for more information on this month’s party.
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Future Frogmen is a non-profit organization that empowers high school and college students to be ocean ambassadors and future leaders. Through experiential learning, communication, action, leadership and exploration, they generate public awareness about the ocean and deepen the connection between people and nature.
Future Frogmen have a new home. Save the Sound will now handle its archive of original environmental content, including videos, a blog and the “Blue Earth” podcast.
Save the Sound — a 50-year-old environmental action organization — will expand its own content creation efforts, launching a podcast series with the Westport Library’s Verso Studios. A 6-episode season will explore environmental issues challenging the Long Island Sound watershed.
Future Frogmen was founded by Richard Hyman, a local educator, conservationist, businessman and former crew member for Jacques Cousteau.
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Broadway star (and Staples High School Class of 1982 graduate) Michael Hayden has been cast as Fredrik Egerman in the Pasadena Playhouse’s 50th anniversary production of “A Little Night Music.”
The production is part of the theater’s 6-month celebration of Stephen Sondheim.
Michael Hayden
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Vibraphonist and composer Chris Dingman and his trio rock Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church’s Branson Hall next Saturday (March 11, 5 p.m.). They merge jazz and global influences in exciting ways.
Click here for tickets; they’re also available at the door.
Chris Dingman
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Dexter Abrams and his dad Jason were fascinated by this swan yesterday.
Walking in Parker Harding Plaza, they stopped to watch her build a nest. Dexter snapped this “Westport … Naturally” photo. Just 9 years old, he’s our youngest contributor ever.
Father and son plan to watch the swan as she lays eggs, and hatches them — from a safe, respectful distance of course.
(Photo/Dexter Abrams)
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And finally … in honor of last night’s Fashionably Westport gala (story above):
(From Main Street to Carnaby Street, “06880” tells you all you need to know. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Staples High School gym — and many away ones — rocked this winter. Fans flocked in, and roared their support, as the Wreckers chased their first FCIAC championship since 1963.
Girls basketball and wrestling drew plenty of spectators too. In the fall, the stands fill for football and soccer; the big spring draws are baseball and lacrosse.
Athletes in other sports, meanwhile, pursue their passions virtually unnoticed. No one other than a devoted parent attends, for example, a squash match. Few teachers ever ask students,, “How did the squash team do yesterday?”
But boys and girls squash flourishes at the high school — well, at their home courts in Norwalk, anyway.
In just 8 years, the program has grown from 1 to 4 teams (boys and girls varsity and junior varsity). Both varsities just competed in the national tournament.
The Staples girls team competed at nationals: Lilly Weisz and Rebecca Schussheim (captains), Rebecca Schachter, Gena Frucht, Sophie Smith, Annika Reddy, Anna Diorio and Rhiya Anand.
And they’re doing it with a coach who — less than a decade ago — helped form that first club.
In his first 2 years at Staples, Shane Fries played soccer. But his father — a longtime squash player — had introduced him to that sport. As a junior, Fries and Mia Krishnamurthy started Staples’ first squash team.
“It’s a great game, with physical, mental and technical aspects,” Fries says.
“You can’t power your way through. You have to concentrate hard. And there’s a steep learning curve.”
Though squash is played 1-on-1, it’s a team sport. Seven players compete for their school; whoever wins the most matches gets the victory.
The Staples boys team that competed in the national tournament (from left): Oliver Grodman, Aidan Zer, Dhilan Patel; captains Ariston Liu, Brett Lampert, Ben Saxon and Ryan Salik; coach Shane Fries.
When Fries helped start the club, only a couple of players knew the game. Most were tennis players, looking to stay in shape in the off-season. That’s still the case with some, but more freshmen come out each year with squash backgrounds.
It is not an official Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference sport. Staples competes in the FairWest League, against schools from Fairfield, Darien, New Canaan, Greenwich, Harrison, Rye, Scarsdale, Bronxville and Briarcliff Manor. It’s the largest public school conference in the country.
Fries’ route to coaching began while he was still in high school. His senior internship was with Squash Haven, a non-profit program in New Haven that combines teaching and playing with academic support.
Fries captained his team at New York University, where he majored in computer science and minored in finance. But he continued volunteering with Squash Haven.
He worked from home during COVID as a software engineer, and began coaching part-time at Intensity in Norwalk. He met high school and middle school players there.
When the Staples job opened up this season, Fries jumped in.
Running a squash program is not easy. Intensity has only 4 courts. The increasing number of players puts a premium on practice time.
And because the courts are in a private facility, the cost to play can be high. That could deter newcomers.
Fries hopes to get more financial support from Staples’ athletic department, to give as many players as possible a chance.
Ariston Liu, in action.
Despite the challenges, Fries shepherded the boys and girls teams to strong seasons. They showed well at the national tournament in Philadelphia last month, competing against the top teams in the country.
A national tournament appearance did not generate much buzz at Staples.
But for the several dozen squash players, the love — and “intensity” of the sport — is all they need.
(Big stories and small; well-known and small — “06880” covers them all. Please click here to help support our work. Thank you!)
Comments Off on Squash Grows At Staples
Posted in Local business, Sports, Staples HS
Tagged Intensity Norwalk, Shane Fries, Staples High School squash team
Seen this morning, in rough water at Compo Beach … (Photo/MaryLou Roels)
… and nearby, at the pavilion … (Photo/Larry Bartimer)
… while Sherwood Mill Pond rose high enough to cover the garage and pedestrian bridge to Compo Cove (Photo/Matt Murray)
Today’s trash pick-up at Elaine Road has been canceled, due to predicted bad weather. A new date will be announced soon.
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The coastal flood warning — in effect until noon today — is real. Here was the scene earlier this morning at Canal Road on Saugatuck Shores:
(Photo/Gene Borio)
And high tide was still 2 hours away.
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When the Bedford Middle School community learned that Heba, one of their popular cafeteria workers, had relatives in Syria — and was still waiting for news after the earthquake — they swung into action.
In just a few days, donations of coats, sweaters, shoes, scarves, hats, blankets (and backpacks filled to the brim) poured in. Many of the gifts were new, or almost new.
Yesterday, Dan Barberio — a physical education teacher and member of the Spirit Leadership Team, who helped organize the effort — packed his van. He delivered it all to a mosque in New Haven, for shipment to Syria today.
Congratulations, BMS, for your important, school-wide effort.
Dan Barberio (far left) and Bedford Middle School students, with some of the collection for Syrian earthquake victims.
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A reader found new racist graffiti — this time, on the picnic tables at Compo’s South Beach. She reported it to Westport Police.
Previous racist graffiti at the state boat launch underneath I-95 was also reported, and immediately removed.
Racist raffiti at the state boat launch. (Photo/Nathan Selsky)
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Danbury countered Staples’ fast start with a faster finish — and excellent defense — at last night’s boys basketball FCIAC championship.
The Hatters’ 69-53 win, at Wilton High School, denied the Wreckers their first league championship since 1963, and their first ever on the court. (The previous title came by having the best record.)
Danbury — seeded 3rd in the tourney — had beaten #4 Staples 63-54, in the regular season.
But the blue-and-whites’ superb season continues. First-year coach Dave Goldshore’s squad — now 17-6 — begins action in the state Division II on Tuesday.
Ranked 7th, they host #26 Manchester. Tipoff is 6 p.m.
The 2023 Staples High School boys basketball team.
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Wakeman Town Farm is getting a jump on spring.
Among its just-announced events:
Old-Fashioned Maple Syrup Boiling (Saturday, March 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; free). Farmers Ryan Brunelle and Sharon Stone boil maple sap into pure maple syrup from trees tapped on the Farm. Ask questions about tapping your own trees, and checking out WTF’s homestead-sized evaporator.
Learn About Chicken Keeping (March 27, April 24, May 8): A 3-session series for the novice; take 1, 2 or all 3. At the end, attendees of all 3 sessions can “adopt” 2 of the chicks raised on the farm, and bring home a starter pack with feeder, waterer, wood shavings and 5 pounds of organic feed. $60 per session; $50 for starter pack. Click here for more information, and to register.
Lamb socials (selected dates, March 31 through May 1; $20): Snuggle and hold lambs, to socialize the new flock; watch them play. All ages welcome. Click here for details and registration.
Home Vegetable Gardening: Dos and Don’ts (Monday, April 10, 7 p.m.). WTF farmer Sharon Stone describes how the Farm prepares for the growing season, past mistakes they’ve learned from, and the importance of maintenance and management. All ages and gardening levels are welcome. Click here to register.
Lunch and Learn to Cook an Italian Meal with Chef Vita (May 16, 11 a.m.; $125). On the menu: orecchiette pasta. Click here to register.
In addition, registration for spring programs begins online next Friday (March 10, 9 a.m.). Click here for details.
Down at the farm … (Photo/Lauri Weiser)
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Staples Player alum Remy Laifer has joined the national tour of “Fiddler on the Roof.” He’ll play Mendel.
The Class of 2017 graduate will also understudy for Motel — a role he played in Players’ production of the same show. (Hat tips: David Roth and Kerry Long)
Remy Laifer
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Save the date, for one of our town’s best (and most delicious) fundraisers:
Taste of Westport returns May 10 (6 p.m., the Inn at Longshore).
The 17th annual event — featuring fantastic food, wine and spirits from more than 2 dozen of the area’s best vendors, plus live music ad a silent auction — benefits CLASP Homes. The non-profit provides homes, support and services to adults with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Tickets are $125 per person from March 10 until April 9, then $150 until they sell out. Click here to purchase. For sponsorship opportunities, email rhammond@clasphomes.org or call 203-226-7895, ext. 144.
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NBC Connecticut’s “CT Live” featured a fascinating interview yesterday about the Westport Country Playhouse.
In just 5 minutes, cultural associate and archivist Bruce Miller gave a history of the famed space; described the stage, sets and costumes, and added a plea to support live theater everywhere, in these post-pandemic days.
Click here to see.
Screenshot from “CT Live.”
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Rita Leyden died Thursday, at 85. She and her husband Tom — who died in 2020 — lived in Westport from 1965 through 2019.
Her son Tommy posted this tribute on Facebook:
“We mourn today because Mom has gone home, but we’re also celebrating and giving thanks for how fortunate we were to absorb her spirit, wisdom and love for 85 years.
“Where will I go for my fill-up of confidence and reassurance? A selfish reflection, but I’m not alone in saying Rita Leyden was the queen of providing a boost of conviction when you needed it, sometimes right after she tactfully told you there was room for improvement.
“Mom was a woman of extraordinary elegance and faith, a rare fusion of class and humility. Her virtuous essence was pure, her love was sacrificial and whole. She believed in reconciliation and the power of positive reinforcement, always empowering others to find their right path as she offered support.
“Inspired each day by her dedication to Catholicism, her regular trips to church kept Mom centered on surrendering her soul to God and living a life of generous example. She trusted prayer in times of need and times of thanksgiving. With a Miraculous Medal always around her neck, Mom sought peace and graciously granted forgiveness to everyone in her life who sought it. Those who couldn’t find the strength to ask, she forgave anyway, and that’s a lesson we can all carry with us.
“Her smile was soothing, the signature grin of an eager hostess, pleased to open her home to guests. When you entered 6 Bradley Street, and 2 Garden Street before that, you were part of the family. Now, that may mean you had to take the buns out of the oven, grab a knife out of the drawer or bring a plate to the table, but if you were spending time laughing with Rita, even washing a pile of dishes by hand was fun.
“Perhaps most endearing was Mom’s true appreciation for others. It takes great humility and self-confidence to listen intently and Mom was truly engaged. With a warm hug and intent eye contact, she would ask about your life, your accomplishments and your struggles because she cared about each and how they affected you. If you wanted her opinion, Mom would offer intelligent insight.
“She was able to balance her words of support and encouragement with wit and humor, sharply delivering a memorable punch-line or zinger with pizazz. Every family has classic moments and Mom delivered more than a few.
“Even in her final days, Mom was always thinking about the details that make a difference. Just last week, I made her famous chocolate chip bars for a colleague. She reminded me to cut them a little smaller than I did the last time.
“Like the stories in the thousands of books she flipped through over the course of eight glorious decades, her life story was page-turning in its excitement, colored with fantastic twists and turns, drama, sadness and laughter.
“We spoke 2 weeks ago about growing old and reaching the end. Mom shrugged and told me, ‘There’s nothing you can do. Just hang in there the best you can. It’s part of the journey.’
“Another morsel of wisdom from the woman who never failed to fill up my tank of reassurance.
“Give Dad a hug. I’m glad you’re reunited.”
Rita and Tom Leyden
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A river runs through downtown Westport.
And though we don’t always notice, it’s one of our greatest natural resources. Andrew Fishman captured it recently, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.
(Photo/Andrew Fishman)
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And finally … in honor of Remy Laifer’s new touring gig (story above), here’s a video from his 2015 production, with Staples Players:
Two striking photos, and a reproduction/adaptation of a famous work open this week’s online art gallery.
Other readers submitted their usual intriguing array of paintings and drawings too.
Remember: This is your feature. Everyone is invited to contribute. Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions.
All genres are encouraged. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage and (yes) needlepoint — whatever you’ve got, email it to 06880blog@gmail.com. Share your work with the world!
Untitled (Andrew Colabella)
“GULLable” (Patricia McMahon)
“Pieter Claesz’s Dinner at the Katzes/” Artist Norm Siegel based this on “the famous Dutch 17th century still life food artist– updated with all the foods I loved that now give me heartburnand acid reflux.”
“A Little Snow” (Karen Weingarten)
Artist Lawrence Weisman calls this “Character of Westport,” then adds, “or one of them at least.”
Untitled (Mona Brown)
“The Tennis Players: Igor Stravinsky and His Taller Friend” — acrylics (Peter Barlow)
“Whelk” (Amy Schneider)
“A Very Little House on the Prairie” (Steve Stein)
Photographer Rindy Higgins describes this monotone: “I was impressed with the gray on gray on gray, illustrating that the Saugatuck River is the same as the Sound is the same as the sky: the oneness of all.”
(Admission to “06880”‘s online gallery is free. But contributions are gladly accepted. Please click here — and thank you!)
Comments Off on Online Art Gallery #151
Posted in Arts
Tagged Amy Schneider, Andrew Colabella, Karen Weingarten, Lawrence Weisman, Patricia McMahon, Peter Barlow, Steve Stein
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)