The forecast is for perfect weather this evening: Clear, with temperatures in the high 70s.
Of course, the “06880” blog party is always a “cool” place to be.
Tonight (Thursday), we celebrate our 12th annual bash.
We’re all set for 6 p.m. at South Beach — the alcohol-is-fine-except-no-glass-bottles end, furthest from the cannons.
It’s a bring-your-own-food-and-beverages event. If you’ve got something extra to share, feel free!
Bring a beach chair. And we can always use folding tables.
“06880” provides the rest: a chance to meet commenters and lurkers. Each year we welcome old-timers, newcomers, politicians and normal human beings. It’s a chance to talk, laugh and trade stories about this wild, wacky and only slightly dysfunctional town we share and love.
See you tonight!
We’ll be just to the left of this jetty (near the boat and kayak launch). Without the car, though, (Photo/Linda Gramatky Smith)
Once again, the Planning & Zoning Commission discussed lights for 2 athletic fields last night.
Once again, they sought more information before voting.
Neighbors near Wakeman Field reiterated concerns about noise, light “spillage” from the poles and landscaping.
A proposal by the Parks & Recreation Department for lights at another site — PJ Romano Field behind Saugatuck Elementary School, which has had temporary lights for several years — has drawn far fewer comments.
Parks & Rec officials, led by director Erik Barbieri and superintendent Carm Roda, were asked for further review of the design from Musco Lighting; more details on landscaping, sound mitigation, and oversight by their department of both field usage and noise.
The P&Z will continue its discussion on August 17.
Lights are proposed for the turf field (center left, next to softball diamond) at Wakeman. (Drone photo/David Pogue)
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This year’s “06880” blog party is just 2 days away.
The date is Thursday, July 23 (6 p.m). The site is Compo Beach — the alcohol-is-okay South Beach, by the trees (the opposite end from the cannons).
Bring your own food, beverages (no glass bottles!), beach chairs and blankets.
Our blog party is a true community gathering – a chance to meet and mingle with the diverse “06880” community (both online and real). It’s fun, un-fancy, and free!
We extend a special welcome to all our new “06880” readers. And those who have never come to our bash. See you Thursday!
A small part of the large crowd. (Photo/Dennis Jackson)
The Westport Country Playhouse production of “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” is based on one of Agatha Christie’s most famous mysteries.
So it’s no surprise that the Playhouse has placed copies of it in various “Little Free Libraries” in Westport and surrounding towns.
If you know a free library, look for the book. Then peek inside. You may find a voucher for 2 complimentary tickets to the stage adaptation of the classic whodunit.
“Architectural Elegy: A Mourning Ritual for Lost Spaces” is set for Thursday (July 23, 6 p.m.).
The immersive performance art piece — part of Ellen Harvey’s exhibition “The Disappointed Tourist,” in MoCA’s current exhibition exploring lost places — explores the question: “If you could visit one place that no longer exists, where would you go?”
The “meditative gathering” invites participants to remember the places that shaped them through drawing, writing, conversation, and a simple collective ritual.
Led by artist Dannielle Tegeder, guests will create “temporary memorials that acknowledge both personal memory and shared history.” Some attendees may share their story; others may participate quietly. The evening is designed for everyone to reflect and connect.
All materials are provided. Participants are invited to wear black or mourning attire (not required).
Speaking (as we were earlier) of the Playhouse: “Cheese Fries & Chili Dips” — the autobiographical play written and performed by former professional golfer and Weston resident Chris Fuller — returns to the Lucille Lortel White Barn theater there August 7-8.
Now a 2-person production directed by Mark Graham, it follows one man’s pursuit of a PGA Tour career, while navigating bipolar disorder. Fuller is joined by Broadway actor Beau Allen, portraying the golfer’s “inner voice.”
“Cheese Fries & Chili Dips” explores mental illness, resilience, family, and unexpected paths that lead to hope and healing.
A wine and cheese reception precedes the shows, at 6 p.m. A talkback after the August 7 performance features Dr. Tobias Wasser, chair of psychiatry and beheavioral health for Hartford HealthCare’s Fairfield Region. Click here for tickets, and more information.
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Svetlana and the Delancey Five — the New York -based jazz and swing band led by vocalist and bandleader Svetlana Shmulyian, who sold out shows at the Blue Note and Joe’s Pub –headline this Thursday’s “Jazz at the Post” (July 23, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 6:45; VFW Post 399).
Melissa Osborne offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo of 4 monarch larvae (caterpillars) eating a milkweed leaf.
(Photo/Melissa Osborne)
“You can see the silhouette of the 4th in the lower left – it’s on the underside of the leaf,” she writes. “They are probably 3 days old.”
Melissa adds: “This isn’t completely ‘natural,’ because I’m raising them in captivity. Last year I noticed that the few tiny larvae I found on my plants never made it to the pupa (chrysalis) or adult stages; they were likely eaten by other bugs in the first days of life. I brought these indoors to hopefully give them a better start.”
The 12th annual “06880″ party is just a week away.
And if you’re reading this: You’re invited.
Next Thursday (July 23, 6 p.m.) is the day and time. The far end of Compo’s South Beach — away from the cannons, near the boat and kayak launch — is the place. (Still confused? See the aerial view below.)
The blue arrow marks the “06880” party spot.
Every member of the “06880″ (as in, this website) community is invited.
We welcome frequent commenters and lurkers. Folks who have lived here all their lives, and those who moved here yesterday. People who want the Cribari bridge to stay the same, those who want a new one, and everyone in between. (Don’t worry: We keep the party a politics-free zone.)
The tagline for “06880″ is “Where Westport meets the world.” Next Thursday, that world comes to Compo.
Please bring your own food, beverages, beach chairs and blankets. (If you bring extras to share with others, we won’t say no). Then mix, mingle and enjoy the evening with the “06880″ crowd.
There’s no charge. It’s a “fun-raiser,” not a fundraiser.
A “blog party” — the “06880” version of a block party.
If you’re reading this, you’re part of the great “06880” online community.
Which means you’re invited to our 11th annual “blog party.”
The date is Thursday, July 23. We’ll gather at 6 p.m. at Compo Beach — specifically, alcohol-is-okay South Beach, by the trees (the opposite end from the cannons).
Bring your own food, beverages (no glass bottles, though!), beach chairs and blankets.
The first 11 years were great successes*. They were true community gatherings – chances to meet and mingle with the diverse “06880” community (both online and real). It’s fun, un-fancy, and free!
We extend a special welcome to all our new “06880” readers. And those who have never come to our bash.
This year’s blog party will be better than ever.
I can’t give away any secrets, though. You’ll just have to show up, and see for yourself.
*Except for the rainout. And the heat. And COVID.
A small part of the large crowd. (Photo/Dennis Jackson)
Our 11th annual “06880” blog party was the biggest and best yet.
(Photo/Susan Garment)
Early morning rain and midday clouds gave way to blue skies, with just enough of a breeze to keep things comfortable.
Over 200 folks — those born and raised here, 97-year-old “Mr. Pickleball” Tom Lowrie, and 2 couples who moved her 2 months ago; daily readers, and casual ones; politicians and normal people — all came to Compo’s South Beach.
They ate, drank, chatted, stayed, and proved once again why “06880” (the online community, and the real-life one) is so warm, embracing and fun.
There was swag (waterproof pouches from Savvy + Grace; homemade jam thanks to Mary Lou Roels); beverages courtesy of Matt Bannon; music by Warren Bloom, plus the Westport Parks & Recreation Department’s help and hospitality.
Jam and waterproof pouch swag. (Photo/Thomas Samaranayake)
And of course, everyone enjoyed another spectacular Compo Beach sunset.
(Photo/Debra Krayson)
“06880” — the online community, and the real life one — feels truly blessed.
Rick and Totney Benson. (Photo/Tom Lowrie)
Matt Bannon took care of the thirsty crowd … (Photo/Dan Woog)
… while Warren Bloom entertained. (Photo/Mary Sikorski)
The Hive (Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito, 2nd and 4th from left) and friends were in the house.
(Photo/Nancy Axthelm)
The Weinbergs’ treat.
(Photo/Thomas Samaranayake)
97-year-old Tom “Mr. Pickleball” Lowrie, and daughter Anne. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
Lou and Marjorie Weinberg enjoy a moment. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
But it’s always cool to hang out at the “06880” blog party.
Tonight (Thursday), we celebrate our 11th annual bash.
We’re all set for 6 p.m. at South Beach — the alcohol-is-fine-except-no-glass-bottles end, furthest from the cannons.
The morning rain has moved on. The weather forecast is “partly cloudy” — hey, that’s fine!
This is a bring-your-own-food-and-beverages event. If you’ve got something extra to share, feel free!
Bring a beach chair. And we can always use folding tables.
“06880” provides the rest: a chance to meet commenters and lurkers. Each year we welcome old-timers, newcomers, politicians and normal human beings. It’s a chance to talk, laugh and trade stories about this wild, wacky and only slightly dysfunctional town we share and love.
See you tonight!
We’ll be just to the left of this jetty (near the boat and kayak launch). Without the car, though, (Photo/Linda Gramatky Smith)
State Department of Transportation engineers have shared with Stina Sternberg Snow, and other neighbors, what the $400,000 landscaping plan looks like for the renovated maintenance garage off the nearby Sherwood Island Connector.
Click on or hover over to enlarge. The Sherwood Island Connector is at left; Post Road East is at top.
The area highlighted in red will be a turn lane into the new entrance (from the Connector). It will have an 8-foot privacy fence next to it.
This Thursday (July 17, 6 p.m.) is the day and time. The far end of Compo’s South Beach — away from the cannons, near the boat and kayak launch — is the place. (Still confused? See the aerial view below.)
The blue arrow marks the “06880” party spot.
Please bring your own food, beverages, beach chairs and blankets. (If you bring extras to share with others, we won’t say no). If you’ve got a folding table, we could use a few too 🙂
Then mix, mingle and enjoy the evening with the “06880″ crowd.
There’s no charge. It’s a “fun-raiser,” not a fundraiser. A “blog party” — the “06880” version of a block party.
Marie Gross woke up this morning a bear breaking up her bird feeders. on Kings Highway North.
(Photo/Marie Gross)
It then sauntered casually down the road, toward the cemetery.
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Michael Franti & Spearhead brought a message of love, hope, acceptance and positivity to the Levitt Pavilion yesterday. It was Franti’s third time at the open-air venue.
He engaged intimately with the audience on stage — and while performing as he walked around.
(Photo/Sean Bernand)
(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
Cimafunk was the opening act last nigh — and also high-energy. The musician’s funk and hip hop, with Cuban and Afro-Caribbean roots, got the crowd moving from the moment he stepped on stage.
(Photo/Copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
Backing up, on sax. (Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)
This week’s shows include Hopalong Andrew (Children’s Series; Tuesday, 7 p.m., free); I’m with Her, with Ken Pomeroy (Wednesday, July 16, 7 p.m.; ticketed); Nellie McKay Trio (Thursday, July 17, 7:30 p.m.; free), and Pete Muller & the Kindred Souls (Friday, July 18, 7:30 p.m.; free).
The Hive — Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito’s cultural community-building collaboration — has launched a small-group series, at the Hive loft.
Each event will revolve around a music and arts theme, and include a conversation inspired by the arts. Beverages and small bites will be served.
The dates are July 23 (7:30-9:30 p.m.), July 27 (4-6 p.m.), July 30 (7:30-9:30 p.m.), and August 9 (8-10 p.m.).
The Hive strives to gather groups with a wide range of ages, backgrounds, perspectives and experiences. Ticket purchasers (click here) are invited to make an additional donation, to go toward a ticket for someone who otherwise could not join.
And finally … Happy Bastille Day, to all who celebrate!
(“06880” is “Where Westport meets the world.” If you enjoy being part of our great online community, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The 11th annual “06880″ party is just a week away.
And if you’re reading this: You’re invited.
Next Thursday (July 17, 6 p.m.) is the day and time. The far end of Compo’s South Beach — away from the cannons, near the boat and kayak launch — is the place. (Still confused? See the aerial view below.)
The blue arrow marks the “06880” party spot.
Every member of the “06880″ (as in, this website) community is invited.
We welcome frequent commenters and lurkers. Folks who have lived here all their lives, and those who moved here yesterday. People who want the Cribari bridge to stay the same, those who want a new one, and everyone in between. (Don’t worry: We keep the party a politics-free zone.)
The tagline for “06880″ is “Where Westport meets the world.” Next Thursday, that world comes to Compo.
Please bring your own food, beverages, beach chairs and blankets. (If you bring extras to share with others, we won’t say no). Then mix, mingle and enjoy the evening with the “06880″ crowd.
There’s no charge. It’s a “fun-raiser,” not a fundraiser.
A “blog party” — the “06880” version of a block party.
The Westport Farmers’ Market Young Shoots photo contest has begun.
Photgraphers ages 5-18 can take shots every Thursday (like today!), from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Imperial Avenuue parking lot. The deadline is August 8.
Local artists will judge the entries, by age group. There’s a show on August 20 at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center. Winners receive cash prizes.
Here’s one of the first entries. It’s from Fielden Brelsford, in the 5-9-year-old category.
Fielden sets a high standard. Let’s see what you’ve got!
Staples High School athletic director VJ Sarullo has named Liam Witham as the 5th permanent head coach in Staples boys soccer 67-year history.
He succeeds Russell Oost-Lievense, whose contract was not renewed by superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.
The London native played competitively for 15 years before transitioning to coaching, while pursuing his degree in sports fitness and coaching. He holds multiple respected soccer coaching certifications.
Following his playing career, he coached at the premier club FC Westchester and the University of Mount Saint Vincent. He also founded a private training organization.
Sarullo says, “Staples High School is proud to welcome Coach Witham to the Wrecker family. Throughout the interview process, Coach Witham distinguished himself with his genuine passion for working with student-athletes, his commitment to their growth both on and off the field and his clear vision for the future of our program. His leadership will build both immediate progress and sustained success. I look forward to working with Coach Witham in the years ahead.”
Liam Witham
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There was a lot going on at Compo Beach yesterday.
Visitors might be forgiven if they didn’t notice how nice the entrance looked.
But it didn’t just happen. Westport Garden Club volunteers were hard at work, making sure that fireworks-goers — and everyone who follows this holiday weekend — is greeted grandly.
If you’re reading this, you’re part of the great “06880” online community.
Which means you’re invited to our 11th annual “blog party.”
The date is Thursday, July 17. We’ll gather at 6 p.m. at Compo Beach — specifically, alcohol-is-okay South Beach, by the trees (the opposite end from the cannons).
Bring your own food, beverages (no glass bottles, though!), beach chairs and blankets.
The first 10 years were great successes*. They were true community gatherings – chances to meet and mingle with the diverse “06880” community (both online and real). It’s fun, un-fancy, and free!
We extend a special welcome to all our new “06880” readers. And those who have never come to our bash.
This year’s blog party will be better than ever.
I can’t give away any secrets, though. You’ll just have to show up, and see for yourself.
*Except for the rainout. And the heat. And COVID.
A small part of the large crowd. (Photo/Dennis Jackson)
NOTE: The “06880” blog party is free. But we rely entirely on donations to keep writing (and partying.) Please click here to help!
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!)
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