Tag Archives: Alisyn Camerota

Roundup: Dance, Dogs, Documentary …

Posted on January 4, 2025 | 1 comment

Club203 wasted no time kicking off 2025.

Our town’s social organization for adults with disabilities gathered at the Westport Academy of Dance last night, for “moving, grooving, board-breaking, ballet-shaking, foot-stomping frolic.”

Club203 organizers thank Craig, Nancy, Megan, Mr.Dave & Pam from the studio; Sensei Palardy’s martial arts, MOCA CT’s art station, and a team of great volunteers, including  members of the Westport Rotary Club.

Meanwhile, every attendee brought enthusiasm, exuberance and joy. Click here for more information on Club203.

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Registration is filled for next week’s Westport Library panel examining the news media and the 2024 election.

But the Library may have space for the January 12 event, if there are no-shows. People arriving at 1:30 p.m. will be seated, if possible.

The panel includes CNN host John Berman, national journalists Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs, “06880” executive editor Dan Woog, and US Senator Richard Blumenthal. Students and staff from Staples High School’s Inklings will also take part.

The Y’s Men of Westport & Weston are co-sponsoring the event. Past president John Brandt will moderate.

Clockwise from top left: Alisyn Camerota, John Berman, Dave Briggs, Senator Richard Blumenthal.

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Speaking of the Westport Library: It opens at 10 a.m. tomorrow and the following Sunday (January 5 and 12) — but only for high school students preparing for mid-term exams, papers, study sessions and project planning.

The Library offers a welcoming space for teens during this high-stress season.

Doors will close at 12:30 p.m., so the staff can prepare for their regularly scheduled opening. Students in the building can stay until doors open to the general public at 1.

In addition to the early Sunday hours, the Library will offer students a chance to de-stress with therapy dogs on Tuesday (January 7).

Therapy dogs reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and bring comfort and joy to all — especially students during midterms!

Come to study — and de-stress.

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Westport Country Playhouse will honor Martin Luther King on his holiday next week, with a free screening of “King in the Wilderness (January 20, 7 p.m.).

The Emmy Award-winning 2018 film follows Dr. King from the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965 to his assassination in April 1968. The film includes some never–seen interviews with people closest to King, interspersed with historical archives.

Interviewees include Andrew Young, Harry Belafonte, John Lewis, Joan Baez, Jesse Jackson and C. T. Vivian.

One of the film’s producers is Trey Ellis. The playwright — a Westport resident — directed the Playhouse’s 2024 Script in Hand reading of “Satchel Paige and the Kansas City Swing.”

The event is part of the 19th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration, in partnership with the Westport Library, TEAM Westport and Westport/ Weston Clergy Association. Click here for more information.

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Jodi Rabinowitz is the Westport Book Shop January exhibitor. She shows some recent collage creations.

A reception is set for Wednesday (January 8, 6 p.m.), at the Jesup Road store.

Jodi Rabinowitz, with her work at the Westport Book Shop.

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Eve Potts captured today’s dramatic “Westport … Naturally” feature, yesterday afternoon:

(Photo/Eve Potts)

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And finally … in honor of last night’s Club203 kickoff to 2025 (story above):

(If “06880” helps you plan your week, or weekend — or helps in any other way — please consider a tax-deductible donation. Just click here. Thank you!) 

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Posted in Arts, Library, Local business, Media, Politics, Teenagers, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: CNN’s Alisyn Camerota, WFD’s Santa Run, UNC’s Marisa Shorrock …

Posted on December 10, 2024 | 11 comments

Alison Camerota surprised her many fans Sunday — first on Instagram, then on the air — by announcing it was her last day with CNN.

After 10 years with the network, the Westport resident signed off with a smile.

Alisyn Camerota’s Instagram post.

She recalled interviewing “presidents and heroes and extraordinary people (in) peak career experiences that I had dreamed of since I was a teenager.”

She thanked her colleagues and her viewers, and encouraged them to follow her on Instagram (@alisyncamerota) for updates on what’s ahead.

In a social media post minutes later, she said: “I’m on to new horizons. I’ll just share this bit of wisdom. New horizons are great when you’re ready for them. There have been times in my life when I was not ready to leave a place that I loved and that was really sad and really hard. But I think am ready to leave this place that I’ve loved.”

Before joining CNN in 2014 — where she was a co-anchor on “New Day,” “CNN Newsroom,” “CNN Tonight” and, most recently, “CNN Newsroom” — Camerota worked at Fox News.

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The Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation “Santa Run” is one of Westport’s most cherished traditions.

(Spots are limited. IYKYK).

For a donation to the Firefighters Foundation, Santa arrives by fire truck to drop off a present at a (limited number of) children’s houses.

Kids, stop reading here! The gift is dropped off at the firehouse previously, by the parents.

This weekend, for the third year in a row, Staples High School’s Service League of Boys (SLOBs) joined the firefighters.

They helped the little ones spread joy, fend off the Grinch, and make the holidays special.

Pausing for a photo opp, at the annual Santa Run.

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Westport has another NCAA Division I national champion.

Marissa Shorrock is a goalkeeper on the University of North Carolina women’s soccer squad. The Tar Heels won their 23rd championship last night in Cary, North Carolina. They defeated Wake Forest University 1-0.

The 2020 Staples graduate was not in the nets (teammate Clare Gagne was named the tournaments Most Outstanding Defensive Player). But she’s got her championship ring.

At Staples, her 14 shutouts as a senior helped her team to a 19-1-2 season. She also played 4 years of varsity lacrosse and basketball, helping the hoopsters to the state semifinal.

Shorrock walked onto the Bowdoin College soccer, basketball and lacrosse teams, before seasons were canceled due to COVID. She transferred to Yale University, appearing in 22 games over 3 years at Yale after walking-on midseason in 2021. She started 20 matches. Shorrock helped the Bulldogs break the program’s consecutive shutout record, and tie the record for shutouts in a season in 2022.

After graduating with a degree in economics from Yale last spring, Shorrock transfered to UNC with one more year of eligibility. (Hat tip: Don Kubie)

 

Marisa Shorrock, with the national championship trophy, and her new cap. (Photo courtesy of David Shorrock)

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WEST boutique hosts a special “Sip & Shop” event this Thursday (December 12, 6 to 8 p.m., 117 Post Road East).

20% of all purchases, and 20% of the proceeds, go to Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County, the great arts non-profit for underserved youngsters.

One Hope Winery and The Granola Bar will be on hand too.

WEST boutique. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Yogi Bear stopped by the Westport Police Department/Westport PAL  toy drive this past weekend.

He donated to the great cause, and thanked the officers for all they do.

The toy drive continues this coming weekend. New, unopened and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders — along with cash to buy toys — will be collected at Athletic Shoe Factory (1560 Post Road East) Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You can also drop off unwrapped toys at Police headquarters on Jesup Road (any time), or Awesome Toys & Gifts and The Toy Post, during business hours.

Yogi Bear and friends, at the Police Department’s toy drive collection spot: Athletic Shoe Factory. (Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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Birchwood County Club is usually about golf, tennis, swimming and dining.

This weekend, they added gingerbread house decorating to the list.

150 youngsters, along with parents and grandparents, gathered for the annual holiday brunch, and creative fun.

Gingerbread house decorators, hard at work. (Photo/John Schmidlin)

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The Y’s Women had 2 special guests yesterday.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker talked about issues on many residents’ minds. She reported that while Post Road traffic remains a big problem, many stop signs and sidewalks have been added all around town.

Parking is still a work in progress.

The 1st selectwoman also discussed Longshore improvements (more pickleball courts, an 18-hole golf clubhouse, a pool upgrade), and Long Lots Elementary School construction (expected to begin this spring, with completion in 2027).

After Tooker’s talk, Y’s Women enjoyed a holiday concert by Staples’ elite Orphenians a cappella group, in the acoustically wonderful Green’s Farms Church.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (center), with Y’s Women president Vera DeStefano and vice president Catherin Albin.

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Congratulations to Staples’ December Students of the Month.

Seniors Olivia Berg and William Vanamee, junior Madeline Leventhal, sophomore Nathaniel Maurillo and freshmen Gabriella Juliano and Kai Massicott were nominated by their teachers.

They make Staples a welcoming place for peers and teachers, and are, principal Stafford Thomas says, “the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together.”

From left: Kai Massicott, Gabriella Juliano, Olivia Berg, Madeline Leventhal,  Nathaniel Maurillo, William Vanamee.

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Michael Mossman has done it all.

After apprenticing as a youngster with jazz legends Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey and others, the trumpeter forged a brilliant career as a soloist, arranger, music director and educator.

This Thursday he brings his talents to Jazz at the Post (December 12, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service from 7; $20 tickets, $15 for veterans and students).

Mossman willk be joined by pianist Jeb Patton, bassist Phil Bowler, drummer Ryan Sands and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows what Michele Sorensen says was left untouched after bulldozers renovated Riverside Park:

(Photo/Michele Sorensen)

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And finally … on this date in 1817, Mississippi became the 20th US state.

(“06880” is your hyper-local source of news you can use. If you appreciate our work, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Local business, Media, Police, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Bayberry & Cross Highway, Alisyn Camerota, Michael Douglas …

Posted on July 27, 2024 | 55 comments

One of the most dangerous intersections in Westport — Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane — just got (hopefully) quite a bit safer.

The town has installed new warning and stop signs in all 4 directions. All flash brightly. The aim is to attract the attention of drivers before they plow onward.

It’s a great start. And a great reminder to pay attention! 

You can’t see the flashing stop sign. But it sure stands out. (Hat tip and photo/Carl McNair)

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The weather was perfect. The vibe was cool.

And every seat was taken last night, at the 3 Church Lane restaurants with outdoor dining: Spotted Horse, The Blondinit and Pink Sumo.

Live music added to the fun.

Just another reason to love summer in Westport — and more proof that downtown has its mojo back.

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Sure, it’s still July.

But school will be open before we know it.

To make sure everyone has what they need, the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force is collecting supplies. They’ll go to residents of the 2 Domestic Violence Crisis Center safe houses that serve our area, and DVCC’s clients.

The Westport Rotary Club and Positive Directions are important partners. The collection begins tomorrow (July 28), and runs through August 4.

Among the new items needed: backpacks, notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, crayons, lunch boxes, 3×3 sticky note pads, 3-ring binders, graphing calculators, and gift cards (Target, Walmart, Amazon, Staples, etc.).

Donations can be left in collection bins at the Westport Police Department (50 Jesup Road) and Positive Directions (90 Post Road West).

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Westporters know Alisyn Camerota as a CNN anchor/ correspondent.

She recently branched into memoir writing. In “Combat Love: A Story of Leaving, Longing and Searching for Home,” the Westport resident explores her teenage years in the 1980s music scenes of the Jersey Shore and New York City, along with her difficult relationship with her mother.

Soon, we’ll see “Combat Love” on film and TV screens. It’s in development by the producers of Broadway musicals like Alanis Morisette’s “Jagged Little Pill” and Green Day’s “American Idiot.” (Hat tip: David Meth)

Alisyn Camerota

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Speaking of writing: Here’s something to write home about: The Westport Writers’ Workshop is 20 years old.

The non-profit celebrates the milestone September 6, with a bash at the Saugatuck Rowing Club.

The event includes dinner, drinks, dancing to the Dylan Connor Trio, a silent auction, and tributes to important people like founder Jessica Bram and former Executive director Valerie Ann Leff.

Tickets are $150, and include an open bar. Click here, then scroll down to purchase.

Funds raised help underwrite WWW’s outreach programs that serve underrepresented populations, like the Bigelow Senior Center, Moms of Children with Disabilities, and STAR. These programs allow students to discover their voices, guided by accomplished faculty members. 

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Longshore golfers were surprised yesterday to see a cart, sporting a political message:

It looked like a Parks & Recreation Department vehicle.

But it wasn’t.

Parks & Rec officials said it belonged to a nearby resident, out for a spin.

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Michael Douglas spent his youth in Westport. (He did not graduate from Staples High School; after junior high, he was shipped off to boarding school.)

The veteran film and television actor and producer returns to the area October 22. Stamford’s Avon Theatre will present him with its Lifetime Achievement Award

Click here for tickets.

A young Michael Douglas lived on Webb Road.

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When Team Velominati sets a goal, they don’t mess around.

On August 3-4, Coastal Bridge founder and Westporter Bill Loftus will ride with the group — many of whom are local residents — across Massachusetts, in his 7th Pan-Mass Challenge, to fund cancer research at Dana-Farber in Boston.

Team Velominati’s goal: $750,000.

This year is particularly exciting. The Pan-Mass Challenge will pass $1 billion in donations over its 44-year history, making it the largest athletic fundraiser in the country.

This year, Loftus is dedicating his ride to his teammate Scott Logie, who is battling cancer.

To help Team Velominati, click here.

Dave Hazard and Bill Loftus (right) crossing the finish line at mile 192 in Provincetown during the Pan-Mass Challenge.

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“Freedom is a Feast” by Alejandro Puyana, “How to Read a Book” by Monica Wood, and “skin & bones” by Renée Watson are the 3 finalists for the 2024 Westport Prize for Literature, The $10,000 is awarded for an original work of fiction that explores issues in contemporary society.

This year’s winner will be announced next month, and honored at The Westport Library on September 21, in conjunction with StoryFest, the annual literary festival.

The recipient will also sit on a StoryFest panel. Confirmed authors for the event include Roxane Gay, Christopher Golden, Joe R. Lansdale, Claire Messud and Peng Shepherd. Click here for the full list.

Submissions for the 2024 Westport Prize for Literature were vetted by nearly 50 volunteer readers. A jury will then select the winner.

From left: Alejandro Puyana, Renée Watson, Monica Wood.

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Alice and her baby Apricot are today’s “Westport … Naturally” subjects.

They — along with baby Raisin — live at Wakeman Town Farm. The public can visit (and snuggle) with them. Click here for reservations, and more information.

(Photo/Michelle Cardello)

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And finally … on this date in 1890, Vincent van Gogh shot himself. He died 2 days later.

(Van Gogh cannot contribute to “06880.” But you can! Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Dank u wel!)

 

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Posted in Downtown, Library, Local business, Media, Politics, Restaurants, Transportation

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Roundup: Age Of Reason, Alisyn Camerota, Vote! …

Posted on March 27, 2024 | 5 comments

Age of Reason — Westport’s oldest toy store — will soon sell its last puzzle, game and science set.

The Post Road West shop closes soon. Owner Nina Berger cited “personal and business reasons” for the decision. Age of Reason celebrated its 40th anniversary in October.

All items are 30% off. The final day is April 30, or earlier if all the inventory is sold.

Age of Reason was my go-to toy store, for many reasons. It’s locally owned; it’s filled with educational, expand-kids’-minds items, not mindless junk; and Nina and her staff always knew exactly the right gift for my nephews, nieces and friends’ newborn babies — no matter how vague my descriptions of them.

Thanks, Nina, for your 40 years of brightening Westporters’ (and their children’s) minds. Best wishes with whatever comes next. (Hat tip: Jonathan Hack)

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CNN anchor, author and Westport resident Alisyn Camerota launches her new memoir, “Combat Love,” at the Westport Library tonight (Wednesday, March 27, 7 p.m.).

She’ll chat with memoirist (and fellow Westporter) Gabi Coatsworth about her story of growing up longing for stability and attachment, as the foundation of her family crumbled.

“Combat Love” chronicles Camerota’s youth in the 1980s, her relationship with a punk rock band, and her misadventures at clubs like CBGB and Max’s Kansas City, coupled with the sex, drugs, and punk rock of 1980s New Jersey.

Tonight is the first of two appearances for Camerota at the Library. The two-time Emmy Award winner returns Saturday, April 6, for VersoFest 2024. She’ll lead a  conversation with Doors drummer John Densmore about his book, The Doors Unhinged: Jim Morrison’s Legacy Goes on Trial.

Alisyn Camerota

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Connecticut’s first-ever early voting began yesterday, for the state’s Democratic and Republican presidential primaries.

129 Westporters — 105 Democrats and 24 Republicans — made history as Westport’s earliest voters. They included 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

All Westporters vote at Town Hall. The usual polling places are not open, as schools are in session.

Early voting continues today and tomorrow, March 27-28 (Town Hall Room 201) and Saturday, March 30 (Town Hall auditorium). Polls are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on those days.

Election Day is Tuesday, April 2 (6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

Republican and Democratic election officials yesterday, at Town Hall. (Photo/Deborah Greenberg)

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It’s impossible to get to every worthwhile Westport fundraiser. And the spring calendar is chock full of them.

But if there’s one you really shouldn’t miss, it’s the Dream Event, for A Better Chance of Westport. For over 20 years, ABC has provided educational opportunities — and a home — to academically gifted, highly motivated young men of color.

It’s a great cause — just like so many others. Our town is filled with wonderful non-profits, doing good in a wide array of ways.

What sets the Dream Event apart are the speeches. Current scholars, and those who have graduated from the program, speak movingly, eloquently and inspirationally about their journeys.

They describe the difficulties of moving to a town like Westport, and a school like Staples; the ups and downs of their 4 years in the program, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

It’s a heartfelt look into America — and an uplifting look into the future.

(Of course, there’s also light bites, cocktails, entertainment, and live and silent auctions.)

This year’s A Better Chance of Westport is April 27 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

Click here for tickets, and more information.

A Better Chance of Westport alumni, at the 2023 Dream Event. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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For decades, Jon Gailmor has entertained, educated and inspired Vermont kids with his unique songwriting workshops.

Now the 1966 Staples High School graduate is coming home, to do it here.

Old School Music Productions presents Gailmor — an official “Extraordinary Vermont” (per the governor) and longtime recording artist — at the Weston History & Culture Center.

The April 6 event includes songwriting sessions for 2nd-5th graders (10 to 11:30 a.m.) and 6th-8th graders (1 to 2:30 p.m.). Students work with Gailmor to find a topic, develop a theme, then create the lyrics, rhythm and melody. The cost is $40 per student. Click here to register.

At 4:30 p.m., the youngsters will perform the songs they wrote, for family, friends and everyone else who enjoys creativity and fun. Gailmor will also perform popular and original tunes. Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for children.

Gailmor received the Mayor’s Peace Prize in Burlington, and was awarded a Silver Citation by the Vermont Arts Council.  He sang as Vermont’s representative at the 25th anniversary of the Kennedy Center in Washington, and in 1996 carried the Olympic Torch through Brattleboro, on its way to Atlanta. To learn more about the legendary Jon Gailmor, click here.

Jon Gailmor, at a kids’ songwriting workshop.

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Speaking of kids: They’re fascinated by police cars, ambulances, cranes, dump trucks, buses, big rigs and fire trucks.

On May 4 (9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot), they’ll get a chance to climb all over — and take photos of — all of them, and more cool vehicles.

The Westport Weston Co-op Nursery School’s 17th annual Touch-a-Truck fundraiser includes other family friendly activities too: magicians, crafts, face painting, food trucks and live music.

Admission is $35 per family. Click here for tickets. Proceeds help fund scholarships, supplies and equipment, and special programs. 

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Right on time last night, Westport’s favorite raptors — 2 ospreys — returned to their nest, near Fresh Market.

And right on time, Westport’s favorite osprey photographer — Carolyn Doan — was there to capture them. (On camera, that is.)

The male arrived first. The female followed. They winter separately in Florida or South America, Carolyn says.

Here are her first spectacular images of the year:

(Photos/Carolyn Doan)

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Looking for a volunteer opportunity? Love Wakeman Town Farm?

Our local sustainability center invites you to a “casual volunteer coffee” on April 8 (10 to 11 a.m.).

Interested in helping with cooking classes? Have a knack for researching and writing grants? Enjoy fundraising or contacting sponsors? How about face painting, working the entry door, or otherwise helping at an event?

Learn about how you can help — without a huge time commitment.

And if you don’t know much about WTF: It’s your chance to learn.

Opportunities galore, at Wakeman Town Farm.

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Jonathan Alloy offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo from Kings Highway North, noting: “It may not feel like it from the weather, but spring has sprung.”

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … we say goodbye to Age of Reason, with this song from The Toys:

(Business, books, birds — all that and more, today and every day, in your hyper-local blog. Please support our work; just click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Local business, Politics

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VersoFest: The Full Hip Hop, Glam, Rock, Punk, Vinyl, Radio, Art Schedule (And More)

Posted on March 24, 2024 | Comments Off on VersoFest: The Full Hip Hop, Glam, Rock, Punk, Vinyl, Radio, Art Schedule (And More)

VersoFest has made some impressive individual announcements about this year’s events.

But when they’re all listed together in one spot, the 5 days of music, media and creativity become truly spectacular.

Here’s what’s on tap, from April 3-7 at the Westport Library’s 3rd annual event:

Concerts

  • The Lemon Twigs and DJ Hysterica (Thursday, April 4, 7 p.m., $20)
  • Spin Doctors, Nick Depuy (Friday, April 5, 7 p.m., $50)

Lemon Twigs, DJ Hysterica, Nick Depuy, Spin Doctors

Verso Visionaries

  • Chuck D in conversation with Johnny Temple, Akashic Books (Wednesday, April 3, 7 p.m.)
  • Tony Viscnoti in conversation with Paul Cavalconte, WFUV (Saturday, April 6, 1 p.m.)
  • John Densmore (Doors drummer) in conversation with Alisyn Camerota, CNN (Saturday, April 6, 4:30 p.m.)

Panel Conversations

  • I Thought I Heard You Speak: Women at Factory Record (Saturday, April 6, 3 p.m.)
  • Connecticut, WPLR, and the Birth of Buckingham/Nicks Era Fleetwood Mac (Sunday, April 7, 11 a.m.)
  • Glam to Punk — A Fashion Roundtable: Alice Cooper, Bowie, Blondie and Beyond, with Cindy Dunaway and Tish & Snooky (Manic Panic); special guest Dennis Dunaway, moderated by Christine Ohlman (Sunday, April 7, 1 p.m.)
  • 51 Years of “Wild Style,” the 1st Hip Hop Motion Picture (Sunday, April 7, 3 p.m.).

Alice Cooper will not be at VersoFest — but glam and punk fashion will be.

Workshops

  • Hands on Hip Hop History, presented by TeachRock (Wednesday, April 3, 4 p.m.)
  • Pitch Your Podcast! With Connecticut Public, featuring Meg Dalton, Jack Hitt and special guests (Saturday, April 6, 11 a.m.)
  • Musician Career Coaching: Know Your Worth, Set Your Rate and Get Piad with Matt Starr (Saturday, April 6, 3 p.m.)
  • Mind Your Business: Legal Workshop with Marcus Thomas (Sunday, April 7, 11 a.m.)
  • Video Game Composing with Tom Salta (Sunday, April 7, 12:30 p.m.)
  • Unlock the Secrets of Radio Airplay for Emerging Artists with Peter Gray (Sunday, April 7, 2 p.m.)

And More …

  • Exhibit: Thinking Inside the Box, multi-media art installation (all weekend)
  • Diamond Dogs at 50, David Bowie Exhibit by Paul Brenton with designer Mark Ravitz (all weekend)
  • VersoFest Record Fair, Presented by Record Riots  (Saturday, April 6 and Sunday, April 7, 11 a.m.)

Most events are free. For ticketed events, click here. For more information on VersoFest, click here.

To see the daily schedule, look below:

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“06880” Podcast: Alisyn Camerota

Posted on March 12, 2024 | 11 comments

Alisyn Camerota is a journalist, author and CNN correspondent.

She has anchored the morning show “New Day,” co-hosted the afternoon edition of “CNN Newsroom,” and hosted “CNN Tonight.” Before CNN, she worked at Fox News.

She has won 2 Emmys, and the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award. Her first novel, “Amanda Wakes Up,” was chosen by NPR a one of the best books of the year.

Alisyn is — equally notably — a Westport resident, and very active in our community.

The other day she and I sat on the Westport Library stage, for “06880: The Podcast.” We chatted about her career, politics, her new memoir “Combat Love,” and Westport.

Click below for a fascinating insider’s view on all:

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Roundup: Lyman Library Talk Video, Kindergarten Change, Paul Newman’s Projectors …

Posted on July 8, 2023 | 3 comments

Earlier today, Russian artillery killed 8 civilians and injured 13, in Westport’s sister city of Lyman, Ukraine.

Just 2 days ago, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas and CNN’s Alisyn Camerota drew a large crowd, for their discussion of the town officials’ recent trip to the Donetsk region.

Plenty of others could not make the 2 p.m. event.

Fortunately, the Westport Library and Y’s Men of Westport and Weston taped it all. Click below, for a very important hour.

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A little-publicized state law change may have big implications for Westport’s littlest residents.

And their parents.

Governor Lamont signed bill HB 06880 (a total coincidence; nothing to do with the name of this blog) into law on June 27.

It covers a variety of education topics. But one significant change is that beginning with the 2024-25 school year, the kindergarten age cutoff changes from December 31 that school year to September 1, so that any student entering kindergarten must already be 5 years old.

Because enrollment in private “5s” programs generally begins in early fall, families with students who will now be ineligible for kindergarten for the 2024-25 school year may need to think about private options.

Click here for the full bill. The relevant section begins on page 3. (Hat tip: Caroline Ferson)

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Ever wanted to go inside Paul Newman’s projection room?

Now you can. It will just cost you at least $700.

Liveauctioneers.com posted this listing for “The Projection Room, Westport, CT”:

“Simplex 35 mm Projectors PR-1003 with Kowa Company Ltd. and other lenses; Kni-tron Xenon Lamp Houses L-100-3 (5134, 5138) with Simplex Electric Changes Overs SA5 (188C, 182C) …” — and 8 other lines of similar technical stuff.

Then came the money shot: “The Newman’s [sic] Westport, CT barn housed a full projection room for screening movies. The above-listed equipment is being sold as-is, to be de-installed and picked up by the buyer in Westport, CT at their expense.” Click here for more information, and to bid. (Hundreds of other Newman items are listed too.)

The projection equipment’s estimated worth is $1,500 to $3,000. The cost of de-installing it yourself in the late actor’s barn: priceless. (Hat tip: Frank Rosen)

A small part of Paul Newman’s projection equipment.

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The teardown of 254 Hillspoint Road has been followed by demolition of a rock ledge.

The work has been followed closely, by the hundreds of people who walk daily between Compo and Old Mill Beach.

(Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)

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David Bigelow — who lived most of his life in Westport, and with his wife Eunice helped turn Fairfield-based Bigelow Tea company. and its “Constant Comment,” into a national leader in flavored tea — died last month. He was 96.

A celebration of his life is set for August 25 (11 a.m., Greenfield Hill Congregational Church, Fairfield). Memorial contributions to the David and Eunice Bigelow Foundation can be made online, or to 201 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield, CT 06825.

Click here for a full CT Insider story. Click here for the full obituary.

David and Eunice Bigelow

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Longtime Westporter Gerald “Jerry” Minsky died Thursday at Yale New Haven Hospital. He was 78.

A graduate of Abraham Lincoln High School of Coney Island, New York and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, he earned an MBA from the University of Buffalo.

Jerry was an executive and mentor in the finance industry for many years. He was an innovator of computer leases and tax shelters, and was involved with the program that put the first camera on the moon.

His family says, “He was a world traveler, who always knew the best places to eat. He loved jazz and blues, and enjoyed cigars in the backyard. He played basketball, and was the first Ben Franklin Mascot.

“Jerry was also an avid tennis and pickleball player, and a late believer in the game of golf. He was an extremely intellectual person who loved reality TV, and family was the center of his world.”

Jerry is survived by his wife Lynne Minsky of Westport; sons Greg and Geoff;  grandchildren Jack, Maddie and Sadie Minsky; nephews Richard (Som) Stein and Daniel (Wannarawee) Stein; great-nephew Tankhun Stein, and his cherished dog, Mickey. He was predeceased by his sister Arlene.

A memorial service will be held tomorrow (Sunday, July 9, 3 p.m., Temple). To join a live stream and share a condolence message, click here. Shiva will be observed at the Minsky residence on Sunday following the service, and on Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Mozaic Senior Life (formerly Jewish Senior Services), 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604.

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Milkweed comes in many forms — all vital for monarch butterflies Here’s one, courtesy of Werner Liepolt, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

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And finally … on this date in 1889, the Wall Street Journal published its first edition.

(Hey, Mr. Businessman: “06880” is a great investment! If you appreciate what we do every day — and have done for 14 years — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Please click here. Thank you!

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Roundup: Tree Board Meeting, Playhouse Tours, Earthplace Moth Ball …

Posted on July 7, 2023 | 2 comments

An SRO crowd got an up-close, personal and emotional view of Westport’s sister city relationship yesterday.

CNN anchor Alisyn Camerota moderated a discussion with 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas about their recent trip to Lyman, Ukraine.

As she’s done with world leaders and A-list celebrities, she asked incisive questions, and helped them describe the welter of emotions they felt before, during and after their journey, including the danger, war-torn conditions and dire circumstances of its people.

Tooker and Koskinas emphasized the great appreciation expressed by Lyman residents for Wstport’s support.

Audience members added their own questions too. Brian Mayer — co-founder of Ukraine Aid International — noted the many ways in which people can continue to help.

The event was sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston. (Hat tip: Dick Kalt)

Alisyn Camerota.

From left: Police Chief Foti Koskinas, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, CNN’s Alisyn Camerota. On the left is the Lyman flag; on the right, its Westport counterpart. (Photos/Ted Horowitz)

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Speaking of Lyman: All Westporters are invited to Sunday’s free party in celebration of Lyman.

The event (July 9, 1 p.m. to dusk) is at the Ukrainian-American Club on the Post Road in Southport (just past the I-95 Exit 19 northbound entrance ramp).

The event includes a giant raffle; food, beer, wine and soft drinks; music from the Mike McGovern Band; a treasure sale, Yankee auction, coffee table book pull, plant sale, “LymanADE” stand and more. Lyman Mayor Alexander Zhuravlov will speak on a big screen. Senator Richard Blumenthal will be there, in person.

To RSVP, purchase VIP tickets and for more information, click here.

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Yesterday, the Tree Board announced that today’s special meeting, to observe the condition of trees at Parker Harding Plaza, has been canceled.

Earlier this week, the Flood & Erosion Control Board canceled its Parker Harding agenda item.

Both came in the wake of 1st Selectman Jen Tooker’s announcement that for now, discussion by town boards, committees and commissions regarding the current proposal to reconfigure the downtown parking lot will be postponed.

Discussion of the Parker Harding Plaza reconfiguration plan has been postponed. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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In the midst of its $2 million, dire straits fundraising drive, the Westport Country Playhouse offers free guided tours of the historic theater.

Time slots are 10:30 a.m. to noon on Mondays and Saturdays: July 17, 22 and 24, and August 5 and 7. Click here to reserve a spot.

Tours are led by Bruce Miller. The Playhouse archivist is filled with astonishing stories and amazing facts. One example: how the Playhouse inspired the creation of “Oklahoma!” and “My Fair Lady.”

Participants will explore backstage, the green room, dressing rooms, the scene shop and wardrobe room, and see posters, photos, costumes and set models.

They’ll stand on the same stage that hosted Gene Wilder, James Earl Jones, Jane Fonda, Eartha Kitt, Paul Newman, Kelli O’Hara and Patti LuPone.

Private group tours are also available. Email Kelly Richards Mikolasy, house and events manager: krichards@westportplayhouse.org.

Westport Country Playhouse archivist Bruce Miller, with some of the 500 head shots near the dressing rooms underneath the stage.

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It’s hard to come up with a new event. It’s harder still to pick out a clever name.

Earthplace has done both.

Their “Moth Ball” is set for July 14 (8 to 11 p.m.).

The public is invited to the free event. Adults and children will gave in the picnic grove for moth-themed cocktails (“mothtails”) and mocktails, plus a costume contest.

Prizes will be awarded for Best Caterpillar, Most Realistic, Best Couple/Group,  Best Makeup, Funniest and Best Overall.

Everyone then heads to outdoor viewing areas for “lightsheeting.” Also called “mothing,” it involves setting up a light and providing a surface for moths and other flying insects to land on.

Earthplace naturalists Victor DeMasi and Lukas Kerasus will describe the moth species found at Earthplace. Click here to register, and for more information.

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The last time we checked in with Aiden Schachter, the rising Staples High School senior and wrestler had a thriving business, creating and selling LED lightclouds.

He’s always had his head in the clouds. Long before Aiden got involved in LED lights, he wanted to fly.

From a flight simulator in 7th grade, he advanced to lessons. On his 16th birthday in March 2022, he soloed.

Now — after studying hard for the oral, written and check ride tests — Aiden is officially a pilot.

He got his license yesterday. The test — oral, written and in the air performing landings, takeoffs, maneuvers, emergency prep for landing at unplanned locations and more — lasted nearly 5 hours.

Congratulations, Aiden. The sky’s the limit for you!

Aiden Schachter: Westport’s newest pilot.

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On Wednesday, Westport-based Intensity Therapeutics, Inc. announced the closing of its upsized initial public offering of 3,900,000 shares of common stock. The price was $5 per share.

Intensity — headquartered on Wilton Road, across from Bartaco — is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of proprietary, novel immune-based intratumoral cancer therapies designed to kill tumors and increase immune system recognition of cancers.

In connection with the offering, its common stock began trading on Nasdaq on June 30, under the symbol “INTS.” (Hat tip: Allan Siegert)

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Lauri Weiser was disappointed to see this Compo Beach tree marred this way:

“Either I’m too sensitive, or this is shameful,” she says, describing today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

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And finally … speaking of Earthplace’s upcoming event:

(Every day, the “06880” Roundup rounds up all kinds of stuff — info you didn’t even know you needed to know. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!) 

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Alisyn Camerota Anchors “Bridge To Ukraine”

Posted on July 5, 2023 | 5 comments

Tomorrow afternoon (Thursday, July 6, 2 p.m), the Westport Library hosts 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas. They’ll describe the sights, sounds and smells of their recent trip to our sister city: Lyman, Ukraine.

There’s a lot to talk about. And the discussion will be led by a true pro: CNN’s Alisyn Camerota.

She looks forward to the event — called “A Bridge to Ukraine” — as both a journalist and a Westporter.

“We cover the war in Ukraine every week on my program, ‘CNN Tonight,’ with our stellar team of international correspondents who are often in the danger zones,” Alisyn says.

“I also interview generals about war strategy and politicians about funding for Ukraine. But I don’t often get a chance to talk to regular Americans, our neighbors, about their impressions of the war after seeing it with their own eyes.  There’s no substitute for the perspective Jen and Foti can share with us.”

Police Chief Foti Koskinas, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, CNN’s Alisyn Camerota.

The CNN anchor will ask about life in Lyman. Are people working? Do kids go to school?

And, Alisyn wonders, “how can we explain the Herculean strength and determination of the Ukrainian people? What does that look like up close?”

Doing this interview in Westport “makes it more intimate and relatable for all of us,” Alisyn says.

“There’s something wonderful about having a conversation without worrying about satellites going down, or being up against a commercial break. I also love moderating discussions that include a Q & A portion for our audience. Those are often the best questions.”

The event is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston.

(For more information on “Bridge to Ukraine,” click here.)

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Roundup: 2023 — In Westport And Lyman

Posted on January 1, 2023 | 4 comments

Levon celebrates at Compo Beach (Photo montage/Patricia McMahon)

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As the New Year begins with bang here, we think of our friends in Westport’s sister city of Lyman.

They greet 2023 in homes without heat — in some cases, even roofs and walls.

They lack electricity and running water. Their police and fire departments have no vehicles.

Thanks to the generosity of hundreds of “06880” readers, they’ve gotten some help. They had homemade meals on Christmas, and all 491 children left in Lyman got gifts.

They need much more. We set an audacious goal of $250,000. In just 13 days, we’ve raised $227,700.

How’s this for our New Year’s resolution: We’ll raise that final $22,300 today.

If every Westport resident gave $1, that would get us over the top. That’s right: With just $1 from every Westporter, we’d reach and pass our target for Lyman.

Come on, Westport! Take 2 minutes from watching football, getting ready for a party or beach walk, or whatever else makes life here so good.

There’s no better way to ring in 2023 than with $1 for our sister city.

Tax-deductible donations can be made to Lyman through Ukraine Aid International. Please click here. Click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other tax-deductible donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo). You can also donate directly, via Stripe (click here).

PS: Our partners on the ground, Ukraine Aid International — co-founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer — are purchasing building supplies right now for Lyman. They will be shipped soon to the town.

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Barbara Walters — the pioneering newscaster and interviewer who died Friday at 93 — inspired countless aspiring journalists. Many were girls.

Alisyn Camerota was one. The author, “CNN Newsroom” anchor and Westport resident described Walters’ early influence, in an opinion pieces posted on CNN+ yesterday.

“Whenever people ask me about the moment I decided to become a broadcast journalist, I explain that it happened in utero,” Camerota begins.

How did that happen? Click here to read the full piece.

Alisyn Camerota

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Howard Simon, a longtime resident of Weston, died Friday after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 90 years old.

Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, Howard studied business administration at the University of Minnesota, and was a member of Phi Epsilon fraternity.

He joined his family’s manufacturing business, Simon and Mogilner, in Birmingham, Alabama where he directed sales and marketing before becoming CEO. Howard then worked as an early pioneer in financing for cellular communications and independent TV stations, before representing Major League Baseball players as an agent.

Howard was an avid tennis player and sports fan, and loved his monthly poker game. He followed politics and current events with keen interest. He was a mentor and advisor who was always happy to provide advice and business guidance. Above all, his family says, “he was known for his affable personality, engaging everyone he met with Midwestern charm.”

He is survived by his wife Amy Simon; daughters Katherine McCarty (Matthew) and Lisa Simon Bailey (Jeff); sons Matthew, David (Andrea) and James, and grandchildren Ross and Evan Simon, Marshall Bailey, and Reed and Kira McCarty. Howard was predeceased by his brothers Jerrold and Ronald, and his son Bruce.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday (January 4, 11 a.m., Abraham Green & Son, Fairfield). Memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Howard’s family is grateful to the staff at Jewish Senior Services of Bridgeport, who cared for him with great compassion and kindness.

Howard Simon

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Sure, it was New Year’s Eve.

But Bob Weingarten wondered about a utility pole.

He sent a photo from Turkey Hill South …

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

… and wrote: “For all the money we pay to Eversource, you would think they would not include a 5-6-foot extra pole about 2/3 up an existing one pole.”

I’ve learned not to fire first and ask questions later. So I forwarded this to my utility “source” — er, expert.

He replied:

Poles in Westport are 95+% owned and installed by Eversource as the custodian utility. Across Connecticut the ratio is 50/50. Eversource has half and Frontier half, as owners and custodians.

There is no joint agreement on attaching or shifting wires and equipment on and off of poles. The company that owns them installs, maintains and removes the attachments’to each overhead wood pole.

Now comes the tricky/frustrating part. When a pole is damaged or replaced, the custodian does the pole setting/replacement, but each “owner” of the attachments (wires, transformers, streetlights, etc.) does the work to shift their equipment onto the new pole,

In this photo, the top primary voltage electric wire (sitting on the gray transformer) belongs to Eversource, so they set them onto the new pole. The bottom of the transformer has secondary (120 volt) wires running to the left and right from the transformer — owned and installed by Eversource as well.

The next wire down just below is a telecom (Optimum’s?) wire with a roundish spreader (left side of pole), but attached to the new pole. Now come the last 2 wires going down the photo, both telecom wires, likely owned by Frontier … and still attached to that 3-foot long piece of the old pole, dangling in the air!

From my experience it’s likely to remain like that for months, because it’s low (very low!) priority for the company that owns those telecom wires.

So advise your reader that it’s not Eversource’s problem!

Then he added a PS:

Look at every pole you pass by just in this town alone.  Count how many “double” poles there are — not just a piece of a pole dangling 15 feet up, but the entire old pole, from the ground up to the top telecom wires.

I’d guess something around 1 in 20 or 30 poles will have one of these hideous double poles. And some lean out from the new straight (and usually sturdier pole), looking a bit precarious.

Take a look. You’ll be amazed!

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Westporters don’t always get along.

Nor do other animals.

Perhaps — as the new year begins — we should take a page from today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

Well, at least for a day …

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And finally … in the spirit of the photo above, as we welcome 2023:

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