Tag Archives: Al’s Angels

Roundup: Field Hockey Champs, Devastating Fire, Holiday Lights And Tips …

Posted on November 19, 2023 | 3 comments

The 3rd time was indeed the charm.

And the biggest.

The Staples High School field hockey team lost 3-2 in overtime to Darien during the regular season. The Blue Wave shut out the Wreckers 3-0 in the FCIAC championship earlier this month.

But Staples won the game that really counted: the state class “L” (large schools) championship.

The #2-seeded Wreckers prevailed 3-1 over their #1-ranked archrivals yesterday, at Wethersfield High School.

Darien led 1-0 in the second quarter, but Sofia Fidalgo-Schioppa equalized 4;40 before, the half, on Staples’ first  shot of the game.

Soon after intermission, freshman Leah Larit knocked in a rebound off a penalty corner, giving the Wreckers the lead. Storey Ahl added an insurance goal in the final quarter.

Goalie Paige Knesich and her defense secured the win.

it was the 5th Connecticut crown for coach Ian Tapsall’s girls, but the first since their 4 consecutive titles from 2016-19.

Congratulations to all. You kept your eye on the prize — and now its yours.

State champion Staples High School field hockey team.

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A popular barista at the downtown Starbucks, and her 3 sons — in 11th, 10th and 7th grade — lost everything in a Bridgeport house fire this week.

They need everything: money, food, clothes, shoes … you name it.

A GoFundMe page has been organized. Click here to help.

Help needed family.

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The holidays are here!

Now everyone living, shopping or dining in Saugatuck — or driving through it — knows it for sure.

The William F. Cribari Bridge lights were lit last night. They’re a gift to the town — and visitors — from Al’s Angels. The non-profit provides holiday meals  and gifts to children (and their families) battling cancer, rare blood diseases, natural disasters and severe financial hardship. (Click here to give back to Al’s Angels.)

The lights are traditionally lit the day after Thanksgiving. This year, they came on a few days early,

Al’s Angels founder Al DiGuido says, “we believe that our world needs a beacon of hope and love right now (as always). We are called to be a light in the world!”

The Cribari Bridge lights are on! (Photo/Patti Brill)

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The holidays are here! (See above).

And with it, spectacular amounts of food and consumer waste.

Sustainable Westport can help. Westport’s non-profit environmental advisory group says:

“This holiday season, we encourage you to consider small changes that will help you minimize your impact on the environment.

“It is estimated that 305 million pounds of Thanksgiving food is thrown out each year. Click here for our tips on how to ‘rethink the feast,’ and minimize the food waste you produce at Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings.

“Speaking of gatherings, if you are hosting this season, click here for our sustainable hospitality guide for recommendations on how to make your party less wasteful and more eco-friendly.”

With so much to celebrate and so much pressure to “make magic,” Sustainable Westport knows it can be hard to commit to change.

To encourage residents to reduce food waste and participate in the Westport Zero Food Waste Challenge, they are giving away an Alabama Sawyer countertop compost bin (retail value $195) to one Instagram or Facebook follower.

To enter, follow Sustainable Westport on Instagram and/or Facebook, like the post shown below, like the “Compost Bin Giveaway” post, and tag a Westporter who you think should follow them. The deadline is this Tuesday (November 21).

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The Flying Fingers Jug Band bring season 1 of “First Folk Sunday” to a rousing close.

They group — featuring  washboard, string bass, jug, dobro, fiddle, kazoo, mouth harp and stove pipe — are booked for December 3 (12:30 to 2:30 p.m., VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399). 

Former Westonite David Barron joins them, on banjo and mandolin.

Suzanne Sheridan, First Folk Sunday’s lead singer, recently saw the Flying Fingers perform, and recruited them for her series.

Click here for tickets. The music cover charge is $10. A special holiday brunch buffet and cash bar are available for an additional cost. Questions? Call 203-984-7562.

Flying Fingers Jug Band

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Johanna Keyser Rossi spotted today’s “Westport … Naturally” subject — a kingfisher — at Grace Salmon Park. She was surprised he has not yet headed south for the winter.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … on this date in 1493, Christopher Columbus landed on an island he spotted the previous day. He named it San Juan Bautista. It is now called Puerto Rico,

(From Saugatuck to Bridgeport — and beyond — “06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Saugatuck, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Bridge Slide, Smoke Shops, PAL Gala …

Posted on November 3, 2023 | 4 comments

A reminder (and we can’t remind readers often enough): From tonight through early Monday morning, the second “bridge slide” takes place.

The new I-95 Saugatuck Avenue bridge will be slid over, replacing the old one. Traffic will be diverted onto local roads.

Drivers using Waze and other apps will find their own ways around the miss, as they did 2 weeks ago. Areas far from 95, like Hermit Lane and Gorham Avenue, were affected.

If you’re going to weekend happenings — like Saturday’s Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services banquet at the VFW, or the next day’s “First Folk Sunday” (also at the VFW), or Sunday’s “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour — plan accordingly.

To keep up to date, bookmark this website.

And don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Preparing for the 2nd I-95 “bridge slide.” (Photo/JD Dworkow)

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If it seems like there are a lot of vape and smoke shops popping up around town: You’re not high. It’s true.

The Planning & Zoning Commission has taken notice too.

The first agenda item at its November 13 meeting (7 p.m., Zoom; click here to see) includes a text amendment that would “protect the public health and welfare by adding language to define and prohibit Smoke Shops and add stricter standards applicable to other establishments that sell smoking related products, but do not qualify as a Smoke Shop as described in the definition.”

New language is also proposed to “prohibit light emitting diode or LED signs so as to reduce potential distractions to motorists” — one of the complaints about Savvy Smoker, the new shop next to Christian Siriano at the corner of Post Road East and West Parish Road.

Click here for the full text amendment.

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Nearly 400 fans packed the Inn at Longshore last night, for Westport PAL’s 2nd annual gala.

The Romano family (Pete, his parents PJ and Joan, sister Pam Romano-Gorman, and daughters), and former PAL president Ned Batlin, were honored for their longtime contributions to the non-profit that serves thousands of Westport youth every year.

There was an auction too, including special items like VIP parking — and beach sitting — areas for the PAL-sponsored 4th of July fireworks.

And there were heartfelt testimonials to the importance of Westport PAL (and the influence of so many volunteer coaches) by former lacrosse player Henry Dodge, current Staples High School quarterback Caleb Smith, and 6th grade athlete Tristen Rycenga.

It was a great, Westport-centric evening. Funds raised will go to the new, 2-story clubhouse planned for (of course) PJ Romano Field.

6th grader Tristen Rycenga (at microphone) and teammates thank Westport PAL for all they do. PAL president Craig Bergamo is at left. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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Also yesterday: 90-year-0ld Win Allen provided a snapshot of his life story to the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston.

The 48-year resident of Westport grew up in Harlem, attended law school, earned a Fulbright Scholarship, then created the first Black-owned Wall Street firm.

He has written 3 books, most recently“How I Pried Open Wall Street in 1962.”

Win Allen speaks to the Y’s Men. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)

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Ukraine Aid International –– the non-profit founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer — continues to deliver crucial aid.

The organization has purchased a water filtration truck, for deliveries to frontline locations to places — like our sister city of Lyman — without permanent installations.

Lyman’s police also just received a generous donation from the Westport Police Department. The shipment includes gear that was scheduled to be replaced here, including bulletproof vests, shoulder radios, winter hats and gloves, car radios, police belts and ballistic helmets.

Donations to Lyman are always welcome. Click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.)

Ukraine Aid International’s water filtration truck.

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No, the Sherwood Diner’s “closed for improvements” isn’t a euphemism.

The popular, decades-old Post Road restaurant is updating its kitchen. It closed Monday. Construction may take another week or so.

Then it’s back to normal — well, even better — for one of our town’s most favorite hangouts. (Hat tip: Arthur Hayes)

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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There can’t be enough Halloween candy for kids.

For adults — well, you may have way too many Kit Kats, M&Ms and apples (just kidding) left over from Monday night.

Al’s Angels are happy to take it off your hands.

From now through Wednesday (November 8), bring extra Halloween candy to Saugatuck Sweets’ Westport or Fairfield locations.

It will be placed in nearly 1,500 Al’s Angels Thanksgiving holiday meal bins, for children battling cancer, rare blood diseases and several financial hardship.

Sweeeeeet! (Hat tip: Francis Fiolek)

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For a while, the Highway Department has been working on Cross Highway, between Punch Bowl Drive and Roseville Road.

They removed the embankment and adding new catch basin tops, prepping the area for contractors to pave.

The result: a more accessible, safer stretch for pedestrians. It will also be easier for the Department of Public Works to maintain, all year long.

Roseville Road (Photo courtesy of Department of Public Works)

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Kevin McCaffrey writes:

“On September 13, the Conservation Board approved a plan to build a luxury townhouse next to Eloise A. Ray Park, on Riverside Avenue. 

“This approval occurred over the objections of a number of residents, including a ‘Friends of the Park’ group which has been lobbying against the project for some time. 

“Opponents of the project argue that it will be unusable while construction is ongoing; that it will be used in part as a staging area, and damaged by equipment; that the park will be ‘forever altered by having a multi-level house, driveway, patio and walls’ encroaching on it; that trees will be cut, wildlife displaced, and that traffic on Riverside will be affected for lengthy periods of time.

“While the project still requires approval by Planning & Zoning (no hearing date has yet been set), Friends of Eloise A. Ray Park urges residents to find out where P&Z candidates stand on this issue. They also invite interested residents to email saveeloise@gmail.com.”

Eloise A. Ray Park

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People with Autism Spectrum Disorder, who are drivers or passengers in cars, are invited to a “Traffic Stop Practice” tomorrow (Saturday, November 4, 8 a.m. to noon), Sacred Heart University).

Sponsored in part by the Westport Police Department, the goal is to provide those with ASD with information about interactions during a routine traffic stop. They’ll also learn how to use the Department of Motor Vehicles’ “Blue Envelope,” which helps enhance communication with officers.

To register, email asd-center@southernct.edu; include “Traffic Stop Practice” in the subject line, and include name, phone, email and physical address.

The state DMV “blue envelope” program, for people with autism.

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Though 180 families applied to the Salvation Army for Thanksgiving turkeys and other food, the organization expects their CT Food Share allotment will not cover the need.

The seek additional support from are residents.

The Salvation Army also hopes to purchase new coats, sneakers and toys for hundreds of youngsters.

To help, and for more information, contact Major Persi Sanclemente: Persida.Sanclemente@USE.SalvationArmy.org; 401-439-3480.

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Yesterday’s frost was the first of this fall.

Jacqui O’Brien captured it in Greens Farms, for “Westport … Naturally”:

(Photo/Jacqui O’Brien)

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And finally … this weekend’s “bridge slide” is not electric.

But this video will get you in a happier mood than you otherwise might be:

(Staying home to avoid all the traffic? Slide over to this link, and help support “06880.” Thank you!)

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Roundup: Scholars, Cyndi Lauper, Universe …

Posted on October 4, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: Scholars, Cyndi Lauper, Universe …

Twelve Staples High School seniors have qualified as National Merit Scholarship semifinalists.

Congratulations to Aalok Bhattacharya, James Cao, Sharmila Green, Emma Losonczy, Colin Morgeson, Gavin Thomas Rothenberg, Katharine Shackelford, Matthew Shackelford, Tegh Singh, Lucia Wang, Lilly Weisz, Tom Zhang   

Nationwide, 16,000 semifinalists — fewer than 1 percent of the over 1.5 million students who took the 2021 PSAT/NMSQT qualifying exam –will compete for 7,250 National Merit Scholarships, worth more than $28 million.

From left: Aalok Bhattacharya, Tom Zhang, Colin Morgeson, Sharmila Green, Lilly Weisz, Emma Losonczy,


From left: Lucia Wang, Gavin Thomas Rothenberg, James Cao, Matthew Shackelford, Katharine Shackelford. Missing: Tegh Singh.

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A sold-out crowd loved Cyndi Lauper’s Friday night benefit concert at the Levitt Pavilion.

And she loved Westport.

That’s not just “06880” speculation. The legendary singer/actress posted “thanks” on both her Facebook and Instagram pages.

She put on a great show. It was clear the girl just wanted to have fun.

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There’s a true hometown flavor to this week’s Jazz at the Post.

“Jazz Rabbi” Greg Wall will be joined by Westport’s own Melissa Newman.

She’s had a long career singing jingles for companies like AT&T and Chevrolet. Neighbors know her from performances at Blue Lemon, Tengda and Harvest.

There are 2 shows — 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. — on Thursday (October 6) at VFW Post 399 (465 Riverside Avenue). There’s a $10 cover. Food service starts at 6:30.

Guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Matt Moadel will join Greg and Melissa.

Reservations are strongly suggested. Email JazzatThePost@gmail.com.

Melissa Newman

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For thousands of years, humans have wondered about the universe: How big is it? How did it start? How will it end?

Only in the last few decades have we had the space tools to begin to find answers.

Marty Yellin has special insights. With a doctorate in biomedical engineering, he worked at PerkinElmer on a top secret program to design and build the largest spy satellite ever. Then he helped design and manage the Hubble Space Telescope.

On October 20 (10 a.m., Westport Library Trefz Forum and Zoom), he offers an overview of the fascinating, often mindboggling discoveries made by modern  telescopes. Click here for the Zoom link.

Just an infinitely small portion of the universe. Can you see where we are?

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Need another reason (besides great books) to go the Westport Book Shop this month?

How about Susan Lloyd’s shells?

The longtime Westporter exhibits an assortment of 2-dimensional shell art works, including mirrors and mosaics.

Over 15 years, her work has evolved to include skulls (plastic reproductions), old dolls and Saints (for their stories, not religious reasons). Colors, shapes, textures and shell varieties are all important elements n her designs.

Her work is on display through October 31, and is available for purchase. To see more of her art, click here.

Susan Lloyd at the Westport Book Shop, with shell art.

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The 13th annual Push Against Cancer is coming soon. And a group of Westport dads is pushing hard, to raise money for campers and their families at The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp.

Founded in 1988 by Paul Newman, it offers fun, friendship and a healthy dose of mischief to seriously ill children at its great facility in upstate Connecticut, plus  outreach to hospitals, clinics and communities across the Northeast. All services are free.

The event is Sunday, October 16 (10 a.m., Staples High School). Andy Berman and Adam Vengrow are spearheading the dads’ effort. Click here to help.

Adam Vengrow (far left), Andy Berman (far right) and friends get ready for the Push Against Cancer.

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It’s still early October. But Al’s Angels is getting ready for the holidays.

This year’s goal is to provide toys to over 20,000 children suffering from cancer, rare blood diseases and financial hardship.

They’ll do it by providing an Amazon wish list. Just click here; purchase as many needed items as you wish, and have them shipped to: Al’s Angels, 342 Greens Farms Road, Westport, CT 06880.

You can also make a cash donation; click here.

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Date clarification: Westport Moms’ 2nd annual Fall Family Festival is next weekend — not the coming one. It’s Saturday, October 15 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms Academy; $20 per family).

The event includes food, crafts, games and fun (bouncy houses, ninja course, music, art projects, DJ, pumpkin and cookie decorating, face painting, hair extensions, glitter tattoos, magic, STEM activities and more).

Many businesses will show off their products and services — all with activities for kids.

Organizers Megan Rutstein and Melissa Post ask attendees to bring gently worn jackets, for donations to a local non-profit.

A scene from last year’s Fall Family Festival.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature is one of the happiest ever.

And why not? Junior, Winston and Frank are thrilled to be back (legally) at Compo Beach.

(Photo/Nicola Sharian)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming Westport Astronomical Society lecture (story above):

 

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Roundup: $10,000, Logging Truck, VersoFest …

Posted on March 30, 2022 | 5 comments

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Earthplace updated maps of their 74-acre sanctuary. Project Return repainted their North Compo Road home. The Westport Astronomical Society got a new solar telescope. Wakeman Town Farm bought a mobile chicken coop.

All of that money came from “Ruegg Grants” — courtesy of the Westport Woman’s Club. Established in 1995 by former member Lea Ruegg, they’re given each spring to a local non-profit with a project that makes a meaningful difference in social services, health, safety, the arts or education.

Previous recipients include, CLASP Homes, the Westport Police Department, Interfaith Housing, Mercy Learning Center, Toquet Hall, the Westport Rotary Club, Staples Players and the Westport Library.

Your organization could be next. The Woman’s Club is accepting submissions now through April 25, for up to $10,000 for a 2022 project. Click here for the application form.

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Bert Porzio is one of Westport’s real good guys. The tree service owner would do anything for anyone (and often has: Check out his Unsung Hero honors from 2018).

But his rental of the small lot on the corner of Post Road and Roseville to store logs has worried some residents.

They’re concerned about one of his trucks parked at the lot, blocking visibility of drivers coming down the Roseville hill.

Now, for the past few days, a logging truck has been parked across from McDonald’s. It’s on the sidewalk, just a few yards from Route 1.

Is it legal? Is it safe? “06880” readers have asked both questions.

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Al’s Angels is sponsoring a Fairfield rally, in support of Ukraine.

The event is tonight — Wednesday, March 30 — from 5:30 to 10 p.m. at Penfield Pavilion. 100% of all proceeds will go to 2 charities, working for the war-torn nation.

The $50 ticket price includes Ukrainian and “local” food, live music, a silent auction and raffle prizes. Scan the QR code below for tickets. (Hat tip: JC Martin)

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Verso Fest continues to get bigger.

The Westport Library has just added an intriguing panel to its 1st-ever media and music festival.

On Saturday, April 9 (1 p.m.), Dick Wingate — a Westporter at the forefront of music marketing, A&R and interactive technology for over 40 years — will moderate a panel on audio production.

Dick launched or developed the careers of Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Aimee Mann, Peter Tosh, Eddy Grant, Pink Floyd, Sarah McLachlan and Garland Jeffreys while at Columbia, Epic, PolyGram and Arista Records. He then pioneered the digital music business with Liquid Audio, as chief content officer. He now operates DEV Advisors, a media and entertainment consultancy.

Panelists include:

Datwon Thomas: editor-in-chief of Vibe magazine, and vice president of cultural media for MRC. He was founder and editorial director of men’s lifestyle guide King magazine, the urban car enthusiast’s favorite Rides Magazine, and editor-in-chief of hip-hop’s street authority, XXL Magazine.

Stephen Webber: Emmy-winning composer, musician, author, producer, engineer, and a leading innovator in music and the performing arts. He founded the Music Production, Technology, and Innovation master’s program at Berklee College of Music’s Spain campus. He’s Berklee’s dean of strategic initiatives, working on domestic and international projects in Los Angeles and China. A former A&R consultant for Universal Music Group, Webber has produced and engineered albums for a wide range of artists.

Travis Bell: audio studios Manager and in-house producer and engineer for Verso Studios. As owner/operator of Hamden’s Adorea Studios for 10 years, he earned acclaim from NPR and Rolling Stone for an array of different projects.

For more information on VersoFest, click here.

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This is a tough time of year for Homes with Hope’s food pantry.

The Gillespie Center program always sees a dip in donations between the holidays, and its spring food drive.

Rising food prices have proved a double whammy. More families are in need, while donors are also feeling the pinch.

Donations can be dropped off between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the Gillespie Center. It’s behind Barnes & Noble, next to Don Memo and Walrus Alley off Jesup Road. Click here for a list of most-needed non-perishable items.

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Michael Bolton moves on!

Not from Westport — he’s staying here. But the New Haven native advances to the next round of NBC’s “American Song Contest.”

Bolton sang “Beautiful World,” in the Eurovision knockoff that includes artists from all 50 states, 5 US territories and Washington DC.

The jury ranked him 5th, but votes by fans propelled him into the semifinals. He joins representatives from Rhode Island, Oklahoma and Puerto Rico. His video from the show is below. (Hat tip: Dick Lowenstein)

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Julian Lamb Orgel — the lively and musically talented cellist son of 1971 Staples High School graduate Paul Orgel — died in 2018. He was 26.

A fundraising concert in Colchester, Vermont on May 21 will endow a scholarship in Julian’s honor for the Vermont Youth Orchestra — a place, his family says, that “nurtured him and provided him with years of support, friendship and music-making pleasure.”

The program features the world premiere of “Songs With and Without Words,” composed in Julian’s honor by Curt Cacioppo, with his father on piano. There are also classical and jazz performances.

Click here for tickets and more information. Click here for more on Julian Orgel. (Hat tip: Diane Sherman)

Julian Orgel

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Jonathan Alloy submits today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo. He also sends this question: “Is your bird feeder deer-proof?”

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … it was great seeing Peter Tosh’s name among the artists Dick Wingate has worked with (in the story above, on VersoFest).

He’s one of my favorite artists. And, like so many, gone way too soon.

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Roundup: Black Friday, Fire Department Tree, Cribari Bridge Lighting …

Posted on November 25, 2021 | 5 comments

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First Selectwoman Jen Tooker delivers her first Thanksgiving message to Westport:

“I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving, as well as a Happy Hanukkah for those celebrating.

“Westport has much to be thankful for. As we emerge from a global pandemic, we are grateful for our first responders, our town employees and staff, our teachers, colleagues and friends, and the numerous volunteers who gave unselfishly of their time, talents and resources. Most importantly, we are grateful for each other, and how we came together as a community to lift up, to help and to inspire during challenging times. Westporters are truly resilient!

“We are also keenly aware that there are those among us who need additional care and concern, especially during holidays. Theodore Roosevelt said, ‘Let us remember that, as much has been given, much will be expected…and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips and shows itself in deeds.’”

“And so, at this Thanksgiving and for the days to come, I ask that we both reflect and act; to give of ourselves in word and deed; to express our appreciation for all that we do have, and to make simple acts of kindness the norm, not the trend.

“On a personal note, my sincerest hope is that you enjoy your Thanksgiving and upcoming Holidays with friends and families, and that you have the opportunity to be thankful for the simple blessings we all share. Thank you.”

Jen Tooker is thankful to celebrate Thanksgiving with her husband Mo and her father, Bob “Pops” Salmon.

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Just in time for Black Friday, “Finding Westport”‘s Jillian Elder has found local stores offering sales, customer appreciation days and more this weekend.

Click here for her list. If you prefer to shop from home, keep it local! Scroll down on her website for a list of Westport-based Etsy shops.

JL Rocks is one of many local businesses you can find on “Finding Westport.”

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Yesterday morning, the Westport Fire Department helped the Westport Downtown Association put up a Christmas tree at Parker Harding Plaza, across from Starbucks.

Check out the fire extinguisher “present” — and the firefighter’s hat on top!

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Al’s Angels’ annual Cribari Bridge lighting ceremony is tomorrow night (Friday, November 26, 4 to 6:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club).

There’s Santa, cocoa (kids’ and spiked), hot dogs and popcorn. It’s a ticketed event ($20 adults, $10 children — plus an unwrapped toy), with all toys and funds going to (of course) Al’s Angels.

For over 20 years they’ve brought joy to children with life-threatening illnesses (and their families). And for 20 years they’ve kept the Cribari Bridge lit.

Click here for tickets. You can pay at the door too,

Tomorrow’s Cribari Bridge lighting rings in the holiday season. (Photo/January Stewart)

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There’s one more parking space today on Myrtle Avenue.

“Hank the Tank” — the Mercedes sedan that, since summer, sat in front of Town Hall since summer — was trucked away yesterday. He’s been donated to the Fire Department, for use as a training vehicle.

Hank has quite a back story. If you missed it earlier this month on “06880,” click here.

College girls — friends of the owner — say goodbye, moments before Hank the Tank is trucked away. (Photo/Frank Rosen)

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Speaking of cars: Traffic has been terrible lately. It’s the holidays. And a paving project on Riverside Avenue by the Cribari Bridge has funneled traffic onto already jammed streets.

This was the scene Thursday night:

(Photo/Jon Dworkow)

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Today, Westporters give thanks for many things. These “Westport … Naturally” featured creatures give thanks that they’re hanging out on Colony Road, not on someone’s carving board.

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … I’m old enough to remember that, for my first couple of years at Burr Farms Elementary School right here in Westport, we opened the day by reciting the Lord’s Prayer (!).

In music class, we also sang “We Gather Together” every Thanksgiving — even after the Supreme Court ruled (8 to 1) that prayer and Bible reading were unconstitutional in public schools.

The things you learn when you’re young stay with you forever. I’ve always associated that hymn with Thanksgiving — and I still know all the words.

In fact, it’s one of only two Thanksgiving songs I know. Last year, I featured Arlo Guthrie. This year … well, let us give thanks, and pray.

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Roundup: COVID Vaccine, Cribari Lights, Staples Soccer …

Posted on November 14, 2021 | 1 comment

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900 kids showed up yesterday at the Staples High School fieldhouse.

Most came willingly, even eagerly. A few had to be dragged in.

All were 5 to 11 years old — and now all are vaccinated against COVID. They enjoyed (appreciated? tolerated?) a clinic sponsored by Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.

Westport’s Emergency Medical Services personnel, and Community Emergency Response Team, were on hand to help. So were Westport Public School nurses, assistant superintendent of schools John Bayers, and State Senator Will Haskell.

The youngsters were given balloons. Most smiled. Their parents smiled too — with relief.

State Senator Will Haskell and Long Lots Elementary School nurse Max Zimmer, at yesterday’s clinic. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Colorful lights on the Cribari Bridge are as much a part of Westport life as — well, traffic on the Cribari Bridge.

The annual lighting ceremony is set for Friday, November 26 — the day after Thanksgiving — at the Saugatuck Rowing Club (click here for details).

But before that happens, each of the thousands of lights must be individually checked, and repaired.

Volunteers from Al’s Angels and AJ Penna Construction performed that task in the cold pre-dawn yesterday. It took several painstaking hours.

But their great work will provide many days of joy, for very thankful Westporters.

Testing the lights this weekend. The next time the lights will be on is November 26. (Photo/Magnus Larsson)

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What an exciting time to be a Staples High School soccer fan! The boys and girls teams won 3 state tournament games each last week. Both have roared into the semifinals.

Yesterday, the 6th-seeded Wrecker boys team knocked off #3 Fairfield Prep, 1-0.  Reese Watkins power-headed Matthew Jordan’s corner kick in the second half. Outstanding defense by Bruno Guiduli, Jackson Hochhauser, Caleb Tobias, Hunter Smith, Jack Foster and keeper Jacob Greenberger secured the win. The boys face Farmington in the semis,

The girls also won off a corner kick, against Farmington on Thursday. Neva Mermagen nailed Maddie Sansone’s cross for the dramatic overtime game winner. The Wreckers meet Fairfield Warde in their semifinal match.

Both games will be played at neutral sites, later this week. Days, times and sites have not yet been announced.

Reese Watkins (left) celebrates his goal against Fairfield Prep with (from left) Dylan Hoke, Murilo Moreno, Tim Liakh and Hunter Smith. (Photo/Mark Sikorski)

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Hungry for another Westport Library’s Trefz Newsmakers Series conversation?

The series — featuring Emmy-winning CBS News justice and security correspondent (and 1988 Staples High School graduate) Jeff Pegues — continues next month, with acclaimed chef and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson. It’s set for the Trefz Forum on December 2 (7 p.m.).

Samuelsson is the chef behind restaurants worldwide, including Red Rooster Harlem, Red Rooster Shoreditch and Marcus B&P. He was the youngest person to ever receive a 3-star review from The New York Times, and has won multiple James Beard Foundation Awards.

A noted philanthropist, Samuelsson co-produces the annual week-long festival Harlem EatUp!. He also co-chairs the Careers through Culinary Arts program.

The Trefz Newsmakers Series is free. To register for a seat, click here.

Marcus Samuelsson

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“The Band’s Visit” continues its national tour at the Bushnell in Hartford this week.

It’s a homecoming of sorts for Staples High School 2013 graduate Clay Singer. The former Players star plays Itzik — unemployed, raising an infant with a frustrated wife — with “aching honesty.”

The Tony Award-winning show runs November 16-21. Click here for more information, and tickets.

Clay Singer in “The Band’s Visit.”

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Westporter Jacquelin Mullin died peacefully after a brief illness last week, with her sons at her side.

She spent her childhood in Bronxville, New York. After graduating from Pace Business School Jacquie married her high school beau, Gerard Mullin, in 1946, They lived in Florida and Illinois and New Canaan. Their growing family moved to Westport in 1954.

Jacquie raised their 3 sons while Gerry worked in NYC.  She volunteered in Westport schools. Her active boys kept her busy transporting them to sports events, dealing with a menagerie of wild “pets,” and worrying about motorcycle mishaps.

Divorced in 1973, Jacquie remained in her Westport home and entered the workplace as an administrative assistant, working her way through a number of marketing positions until she retired from GTE.

She also volunteered with the Westport Historical Society, Westport Woman’s Club and Nature Center (now Earthplace), among others.

She was a devoted gardener. In later years she surrounded herself with flowering plants on her deck, where she spent many hours.

She traveled extensively with friends and family members. Proud of her Irish heritage, visiting “the auld sod” was an important journey. She was inseparable from her beloved cars, driving solo south each winter to visit friends and family.

She also enjoyed Compo Beach, watching the ever-changing seasons of children, dogs and beach walkers.

With her sons grown, her best times centered on sharing a meal or driving adventures with old friends from work, and new friends from all walks of life. Her family thanks everyone who enriched her life with their companionship and wit, and to the aides that made her later-life lunches possible.

Family was the center of Jacquie’s existence. She hosted holiday dinners until the younger generation took over, and kept track of everyone’s birthdays.  She was pre-deceased by her former husband (1997), her middle son Randall James Mullin (2017), and daughter-in-law Audrey (Albright) Mullin (2005).

She is survived by her brother, John Sheedy Jr. of New York City and Red Rock, New York; sisters Marie Ponce of Charlotte and Marguerite Adams of  Garrison, New York; sons Jeffrey (Joan Hall) of Bourne, Massachusetts and Scott of Ridgefield; daughter-in-law Jackie Mullin of Neptune Beach, Florida; grandchildren Amy and Brian Mullin; great-grandchild Ethan Mullin, plus nieces, nephews, and their children:

A private graveside service will be held at Assumption Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society; Wakeman Town Farm, or Earthplace. Her family adds: “Plant perennial flowers in your garden in her memory!”

Jacqui Mullin

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Deer are a popular “Westport … Naturally” subject.

But we haven’t seen too many bucks. Here’s a great shot, from Baron’s South:

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … happy 121st birthday to America’s great composer/conductor, Aaron Copland!

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Library, Obituaries, Saugatuck, Sports, Staples HS

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Flowers For The Front Lines

Posted on February 11, 2021 | 3 comments

For most people, Valentine’s Day means buying a rose — a dozen, if you’re a big spender (or have a lot of making up to do) — for a loved one.

Michele Sinacore arranges and delivers those with ease.

But this week she’s in a crazy rush to deliver 1,500 roses, ordered by people for loved ones they’ve never met.

They’ll brighten the days of front line workers all around Fairfield County.

Michele — a Westport mom and former New York event producer — started Blossom + Stem Floral Design just over a year ago, at home. She’s succeeded during the pandemic with creativity, talent and persistence.

Yet even in the toughest times, she gives back to the community.

In June, Michele donated hundreds of boxed lunches (with flowers) to Yale New Haven Hospital. A former competitive triathlete and current avid runner who was diagnosed in 2019 with a very rare tumor, she’d been touched by the care she received their after intensive surgery.

Michele Sinacore (Photo/Tamira Wilcox)

That experience — and the grateful thanks for her gift — sparked an idea.

A longtime admirer of (and volunteer with) Al’s Angels, she approached founder Al DiGuido with an idea: asking residents to donate roses to local front liners.

Al went right to work. Norwalk, Bridgeport and Stamford Hospitals jumped at the idea of showing love to their staff.

Al’s network of donors came through too. In the first 10 minutes, 250 roses were promised. Within 72 hours, 600 flowers had been been donated.

Michele and Al added The Residence at Westport and Montefiore to their list of recipients. Soon, they’d sold 1,500 roses. People donated on behalf of their children, friends, even pets.

Local businesses like Performance Physical Therapy became supporters too.

On Monday, East Coast Whole Flowers delivered those 1,500 flowers to Michele’s garage. Teams of (masked and socially distanced) volunteers began pruning, water tubing and wrapping them in a temperature-friendly (cold) setting. They added messages of support, written by donors, to each rose.

A few of the 1,500 roses in Michele’s garage.

The next day, Michele made her first delivery: 65 flowers to The Residence. Employees were getting vaccinated — and, as an extra treat, given a rose.

Yesterday, Bridgeport and Montefiore Hospitals got 250 to 400 roses. They’ll hand them to staffs in their ICU, COVID, ER and children’s units.

Still ahead: Norwalk and Stamford Hospitals.

Michele Sinacore, surrounded by roses in her garage.

It’s Michele and Al’s way of spreading love and thanks.

Now all you need to do is order your own rose (or dozen) for your loved one, from Blossom + Stem. They deliver to our front liners — and to you.

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Posted in Environment, Local business, Organizations, People

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Sammi Henske’s “Rocky” Idea Takes Off

Posted on December 29, 2020 | 2 comments

You might hear Westport middle schooler Samantha Henske’s latest idea — sending rocks to friends — and think she has rocks in her head.

Then you hear the concept behind it:

  • You buy a rock for $10, to let a friend know you’re thinking of them.
  • The friend loves the rock (inscribed “Inspire kindness,” “See good in all things,” with a smiley face, or a custom design), and sends one of her own to another friend.

  • You both enter a special code (unique to those rocks) into Sammi’s website, and track that chain as it spreads all over the country.
  • You smile as you learn that the rocks are called “Huggs” — so Sammi is helping send hugs everywhere.

Then you hear that most of the proceeds go to charity — the first one Sammi’s chosen is Westport’s own Al’s Angels — and you realize she does not have rocks in her head at all.

Just a brain that has come up with a simple, fun idea that brings smiles to friends, and sunlight to strangers.

At a time we desperately need all the joy we can get.

(For Sammi Henske’s Huggs website, click here. For her Instagram, click here. For a WTNH Channel 8 story on Sammi, click here.)

Samantha Henske

 

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Posted in Local business, Organizations, Teenagers

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Cribari Bridge Is Lit. Let The Holidays Begin!

Posted on November 27, 2020 | 6 comments

The crowd was far smaller than usual.

But even the coronavirus can’t dampen the joy of one of Westport’s favorite traditions: lighting the William F. Cribari Bridge.

The bulbs are new. The colors are beautiful. And now more than ever, we need this annual Al’s Angels gift.

(Drone photos/Patrick Sikes)

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Posted in Organizations, Saugatuck, Transportation

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Roundup: Bathrooms, Cribari Bridge, Suzuki, More

Posted on November 25, 2020 | 9 comments

The other day, Mary-Lou Weisman emailed the Parks & Recreation Department.

She and her husband had been upset to find the Compo Beach bathrooms locked. They were replaced by porta potties “filled nearly to the brim” (and lacking toilet paper).

Mary-Lou noted that medical experts have warned against using such small, secured enclosures during COVID.

A Parks & Rec employee replied. She noted that bathrooms are seasonal facilities only, and the water has been shut off for the winter. (Year-round bathrooms are available at the Ned Dimes Marina.) The department is following up with the service company that maintains the porta-johns.

Mary-Lou responded: “Are the 2 proper restrooms at Compo closed because of financial concerns. or because the water pipes would burst in cold weather? If the concerns are financial, I would hope the town would provide the necessary funds to keep them open. I would further suggest that if frozen pipes are a concern, that problem might be mitigated by being wrapped, and probably by other means.

“If Westport can afford to build pickleball courts and skateboard ramps, the town should be able to keep the bathrooms open all year.”

Bathroom facilities at Compo Beach are closed. (Photo/Matt Murray)

On Friday, the William F. Cribari Bridge will glow again. It’s a holiday tradition that makes Saugatuck special.

Yesterday, “06880” reported that a crew of Al’s Angels and friends worked for hours, restringing lights and replacing broken bulbs.

They don’t want a lot of publicity. But here’s the gang to thank. They bring a bit of joy, at a time we all desperately need it.

(Photo/Al DiGuido)

COVID has canceled some of Suzuki Music Schools’ traditional  performances.

So the Westport students are going online. Among the highlights: a mid-month “Ode to Joy.” The virtual orchestra project features students and faculty from the Westport and Orange campuses and KEYS Bridgeport, celebrating Beethoven’s 250th birthday.

Suzuki adds: “As a non-profit music school, we keep the community culturally connected by providing free concerts, scholarships, and international events to the public directly due to the generosity of others, so it is inherent that we help those around us grow as well. In that spirit, we encourage the public to not only donate to Suzuki Schools at www.suzukischools.org this Giving Tuesday, but also to the organizations they appreciate and that affect them most.

And finally … whenever I think of Suzuki musicians, I think of “M*A*S*H.” In the unforgettable final episode, Major Charles Emerson Winchester III is aggravated that a group of Chinese North Korean POWs are musicians. He tries to teach them his beloved Mozart Clarinet Quintet in A, with moderate success.

With the war’s end imminent, the prisoners ship out from the 4077th. Gamely, they play the piece in the back of the truck.

Casualties continue to arrive — including one of the just-released POWs. The entire group had been killed, minutes after leaving camp.

“He wasn’t even a soldier,” the distraught doctor says. “He was a musician.”

Winchester returns to his tent. He puts on a record of the Clarinet Quintet, then smashes it in rage.

 

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Posted in Arts, Local business, Organizations, Saugatuck

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