Tag Archives: American Colors

Roundup: Donation Drop-offs, Swim Club Tryouts, Sherwood Island Solstice …

Posted on December 12, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Donation Drop-offs, Swim Club Tryouts, Sherwood Island Solstice …

Westport Country Playhouse is getting in the holiday spirit.

And not just just with it’s production of “A Sherlock Carol.”

The family-friendly show is certainly an attraction.

But there’s more. Three important groups — the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, Norwalk Toys for Tots, and Westport Homes with Hope food pantry– are recipients of donations that can be dropped off during “A Sherlock Carol”‘s December 13-21 run.

There will be collection boxes in the Playhouse lobby whenever the box office is open (Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m.), and during performances.

For The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, curtain speeches will invite monetary donations from the audience.

“The bond we share with The Hole in the Wall Camp remains especially close to our hearts,” says Playhouse artistic director Mark Shananan.

“It would make Camp founder Paul Newman and our own former artistic director Joanne Woodward very proud to see the relationship between our organizations still going strong.“

In fact, Shanahan’s involvement with the camp helped inspire “A Sherlock Carol.”

It’s the story of a grown-up Tiny Tim turning his personal experiences into a lifelong commitment to helping others — “just like so many people at Camp do,” Shanahan says.

Meanwhile, Norwalk Toys for Tots seeks new, unwrapped toys and books for children in need — including books in Spanish and Haitian Creole — for ages newborn to 18. Donations benefit local agencies and families in Norwalk, Fairfield and Westport. Click here for more information.

Westport’s Homes with Hope — dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Fairfield County — needs items for its food pantry: pancake mix, cooking oil, condiments, laundry detergent (small containers), feminine care products, canned fruit, cold cereal, salt and pepper, jelly, cleaning wipes, and gift certificates to Walmart and Stop & Shop. Click here for more information. 

To learn more about “A Sherlock Carol” — including ticket purchases — click here.

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All 2nd through 8th grade boys and girls are invited to try out for the Westport Swim Club.

It’s a great program — big on fun, friends and fundamentals — that helps get youngsters ready for the Staples High School program, either next year or a few years down the line. The winter session starts January 7.

Tryouts are December 15 (5:15 to 6:30 p.m.), January 5 (5:30 to 6:30 p.m.), January 10 (4 to 5 p.m.) and January 11 (9:45 to 10:30 a.m.). Click here to sign up.

More details are in the graphic below. Questions? Email swimwestport@gmail.com.

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Sure, it’s cold. Crowds have thinned considerably at Sherwood Island State Park.

But there’s still plenty to do. And plenty of room to do it in.

The Winter Solstice is 10:03 a.m. on December 21. Starting at 10, Friends of Sherwood Island will meet at the main pavilion for winter seed sowing in milk jugs.

After collecting seeds of native flowers in the dunes, members will help attendees cut a milk jug, drill holes in the bottom, fill it with special potting soil, and add seeds and water.

Then bring it home to leave outside until spring. (Jugs brought indoors will not germinate. Seeds need the winter cold.)

There’s hot chocolate, snacks and a “special visitor.” It’s free (but no pets). Bring empty, washed milk jugs (maximum 3 per family).

Then, on January 1, Friends of Sherwood Island invite everyone to start the new year with a breezy walk along the beach. Children and dogs on short leashes are welcome. Meet in front of the Nature Center at 11 a.m.; follow signs to the East Beach area.

Dress in layers. Bring a hot beverage and snack.

Questions? Call Michele: 203-247-1390.

Seeds for spring.

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Happy (upcoming) birthday! Keith Richards turns 82 on December 18. Time is certainly on his side.

It would be a bit intrusive to suggest we head over to his house to serenade the Rolling Stones guitarist.

But maybe a card or note? Just mail it to “Keith Richards, Weston, CT 06883.”

I’m sure that won’t be the first time someone has done that.

Keith Richards, at the Westport Library in March. He received the first-ever Governor’s Award of Excellence. (Photo/Ryan Allen)

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Speaking of the Stones: American Colors by Henry Lehr’s trunk show tomorrow (Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) features the Rolling Stones and Revo.

The “exclusive sunglass collaboration (was) inspired by the icons who changed how we hear — and how we look.”

Will Keith be there?

Probably not.

Hey — you can’t always get what you want.

 

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Wednesday’s weather was not exactly ducky.

But Jamie Walsh headed to Compo Beach. That’s where he saw — and shot — today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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And finally … in honor of Westport Swim Club’s next season (story above):

(We’re not exactly drowning, here at “06880” central. But we do rely on reader’s support, to help us publish our hyper-local blog. Please click here to contribute. Every little bit helps. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Farmers’ Market, Teen Essays, Staples Cellphones …

Posted on May 2, 2025 | 2 comments

There is no better sign of spring than the return of the Westport Farmers’ Market.

The annual rite is set for next Thursday (May 8). It runs every Thursday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Imperial Avenue parking lot near Jesup Road.

WFM will hand out free packets, to “sow the seeds of another incredible season.”

“As we begin this season, we’re not just putting up tents. We’re planting ideas, nurturing community, and growing a better food system,” says executive director Lori Cochran-Dougall.

The 2025 Farmers’ Market includes:

  • Over 50 local farms and vendors, committed to sustainabie practices and “real food.”
  • Non-profit partners, with informational tables, giveaways and more.
  • Cooking demonstrations, a revamped recipe program, kids’ events and community talks.
  • Live music.

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A cellphone-free Staples has been talked about for a while.

On Tuesday, the public gets its say.

A special Board of Education meeting (May 6, 7:30 p.m., Coleytown Middle School auditorium) has one agenda item: “Bell-to-Bell Cell Phone Free Initiative at SHS.”

The meeting notice adds: “The Westport Public Schools invite your feedback on making Staples High School a phone free school.”

Cellphone holders may be a thing of the past, if the devices are banned throughout the day at Staples High School.

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Speaking of Staples: On Monday, TEAM Westport announced the 4 winners of its 12th annual Teen Diversity Writing Contest.

As reported on “06880,” the quartet — Annam Olasewere, Aanya Gandhi, Souleye Kebe and Sienna Tzou — wrote about their identities with tremendous insight, depth, honesty and clarity.

They also delivered their essays powerfully, and passionately.

Click below to view their presentations. Their personal readings give even greater meaning to their compelling words.

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Read to Grow celebrated 25 years of providing books to Connecticut’s babies and children last night, with a great gala at the Westport Library.

Host Ian O’Malley — the well-known Westport realtor and New York radio personality — and other speakers described the impact the program has had on hundreds of thousands of youngsters, and their parents. A flagship program is the gift of baby books and early literacy information to nearly every new mother in Connecticut.

Zucca Gastrobar’s superb catering, and silent auction items featuring (among others) Ron Darling and the Doobie Brothers added to the fun.

For more information on Read to Grow, click here.

Ian O’Malley, Read to Grow gala emcee.

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Also last night: A large crowd welcomed Alex Lehr to Westport.

His Post Road store — American Colors by Henry Lehr — opened in December. But the ribbon cutting for the shop, which features casual, comfortable, contemporary clothing for men and women,  a collection of vintage belts, and much more — was yesterday.

American Colors marks a return to Westport for the Lehr family. Alex’s father, Henry, operated a very successful and much-loved women’s store around the corner on Main Street for decades.

Cutting the ribbon (from left): 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, Alex Lehr, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell,  brand strategist Jay Norris.

Checking out the store. (Photos/Ryan Allen)

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Yesterday’s “Westport in Focus” newsletter from 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker included information about the Conservation Department.

She notes their “fascinating presentation about Westport’s natural habitats – vernal pools. They are a delicate habitat pressed by multiple stressors, yet home to a surprising array of life. Species such as fairy shrimp, spotted salamanders, and wood frogs call these places home and struggle to live anywhere else.

“Westport is lucky to contain hundreds of vernal pools, ranging from under 100 square feet to over a few thousand.”

The newsletter includes a link for more information about vernal pools. Another link to the Conservation Department’s page on the town website offers details on protecting natural resources while maintaining lawns and plants.

Vernal pool

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“06880” readers learned last week that Dave Briggs nominated me for the #SpeakYourMind ice bucket challenge. The videos bring awareness to, and raise funds for, youth mental health.

I was honored to be dunked (click here to see), and promptly nominated Jen Tooker, Andrea Moore and Foti Koskinas.

The selectwomen quickly rose to the challenge (the police chief was out of town). They chose Positive Directions as the next victims.

The entire board of the non-profit center for prevention and counseling accepted.

Coincidentally, PD was kicking off their New York Marathon journey the same day. Runners Gianna Affi, Cam Gaylord and Brian McGarvey will run to raise money for the organizaton. They joined Jen in dousing board members with frigid water.

Positive Directions paid it forward. They nominated Rhone, who is helping make the marathon “a huge splash” (including outfitting the runners in training and at the race), plus mental performance coach Rhodie Lorenz, who is inspiring the runners as they train.

Click here or below for the video.

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The Joggers Club — Connecticut’s largest run club — is moving from Compo Beach to Greens Farms train station.

The new routes include Beachside Avenue and nearby beaches.

Organizers say, “All the rules are the same. Have fun, all paces are welcome, enjoy free coffee from McDonald’s and bagels from Village Bagels.”

Runs begin every Saturday at 8 a.m. Membership ($50 a year) includes a free Lululemon shirt for all new members.

For more information, email thejoggersclub@gmail.com.

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Wednesday’s “06880” story — about the partnership between Staples High School drama teacher David Roth’s directing class, Westport’s Shakespeare scholar Diane Lowman and Bridgeport’s Edison Elementary School, to bring the Bard to young students — struck a chord.

Within a day, $2,125 had been raised to help fund more Bridgeport classes take part in the future. Roth and Lowman are grateful for readers’ generosity.

To help reach the $4,000 goal, click here.

Staples directing students and Edison School youngsters, working together to love Shakespeare. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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In March, “06880” profiled Zander Bauer and Elijah Falkenstein.

The Staples High School juniors are founders and co-presidents of the local Make Our Schools Safe chapter. The club empowers students and staff to help create a culture of safety and vigilance, while advocating for laws that promote safery schools.

In February, Zander and Elijah testified before the state legislature.

Yesterday, SB 1216 passed through the Senate. It calls for the installation of silent panic alarms directly linked to law enforcement, which dramatically reduces response time

State Senator Ceci Maher — who worked closely with the Staples students — praised Elijah and Zander in her social media posts. Click here to see.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photos may be the last from the now-closed Community Gardens. As “06880” reported yesterday, the 20-year-old site will at some point be the staging area for construction of the new Long Lots elementary School. Later, an athletic field will be built on the site.

(Photo/Toni Simonetti)

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And finally … Today is the birthday of Manfred von Richthofen. The German World War I pilot was born in 1892. He was killed over France in 1918, age 25.

·(Another day, another Roundup filled with news you can use. If you appreciate this daily feature — or any other part of “06880” — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Farmers’ Market, Turf Fields, American Colors …

Posted on April 18, 2025 | 2 comments

Perhaps the surest sign yet that no matter what happens in the rest of the world, there is still much to celebrate, is this: The Westport Farmers’ Market returns May 8.

Vendors of all kinds — fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, ice cream, organic pet food — share the Imperial Avenue parking lot every Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) with musicians, non-profits, and thousands of Westporters looking for healthy food, fun and community. The season runs through November 13.

Click here for more information, and to sign up for Instagram and email alerts.

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Residents near the state Department of Transportation facility on Post Road East and the Sherwood Island Connector are still reeling from last week’s clear-cutting of dozens of trees.

The work was done in preparation for construction next winter of a new maintenance facility behind Walgreens.

A 40-year resident of West Parish Road writes: “We expect a certain amount of noise, etc, from the DOT facility.

“But the increase in activity with the new construction is tenfold. I truly hope that the state will do the right thing, and plant some trees or put up some other type of sight/sound barrier, so we don’t have to suffer quite as much during the construction (which I understand will take years).

“Regardless of the fact that the state can act independently, it behooves the town to work with the state to request some relief — now — for neighbors whose front lawns look out on the DOT lot.

A few trees remain on town property. But this is the view from West Parish Road of the Department of Transportation maintenance facility, after the removal of many trees from state property.

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The RTM Environment and Health & Human Services Committees meet jointly on May 13 (7 p.m., Town Hall Room 201).

There is one agenda item: “discussion about artificial turf ordinance.”

The Laddie Lawrence Track, at Paul Lane Field.

There are 4 artificial turf fields in Westport: Paul Lane (above) and Jinny Parker Fields at Staples, Wakeman adjacent to Bedford Middle School, and PJ Romano behind Saugatuck Elementary School.

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Speaking of sports: Fleet Feet’s Westport United Youth Track program is a new offering, for boys in girls in grades 1-8.

The series is led by Jesse McCray and Dave Wright, Staples High head and assistant track and field coaches. Staples athletes will assist.

McCray and Wright say, “Most youth sports require running, so this is a great way to give your child a head start on the correct fundamentals of running.”

It runs (ho ho) Sundays (11 a.m. to noon, Staples High School), from May 4 through June 15.

The cost is $160. Click here to register, and for more information.

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Speaking (still) of sports: Club203’s next event is all about fitness.

Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities meets April 26 at the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

Activities include basketball, pickleball, swimming, and (as always) art with MoCA CT. Healthy snacks will keep everyone energized. Click here for more information.

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American Colors by Henry Lehr — the flagship store run by the famed women’s wear retailer son Alex — opened just before the holidays.

Westporters who remember Henry Lehr from his 40 years on Main Street flocked to the new 66 Post Road East location, just around the corner from the legendary spot.

Now American Colors and Alex are ready for their grand opening event. It’s set for May 1 (5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.), with light bites, drinks, gifts, raffles and music.

“Westport has always held a special place in my heart,” Alex says.

“Opening American Colors here is my way of reconnecting with the loyal customers who have supported the Henry Lehr brand for decades, and introducing our unique apparel and accessories to the new wave of residents who have moved to Connecticut in recent years.”

Click here for more information, from “06880” last December.

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Lifelong resident and 1971 Staples High School graduate Kelley Spearen died last year.

But his sculptures live on, all over the area.

It is rumored he created a “guitar” work for Keith Richards, at the Rolling Stones star’s Weston home.

Five of Spearen’s works were purchased by the Swanson family, and decorate their backyard.

After 71 years in town, they’re moving to a Virginia ranch. The sculptures need a new home.

One is below. The others are equally intriguing. If interested — or to learn more — email 06880blog@gmail.com.

One of 5 Kelly Spearen sculptures, at the Swanson home.

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Want to play around with the Playhouse?

The 2nd annual Westport Country Playhouse golf fundraiser is July 21 (Birchwood Country Club).

The day includes morning and afternoon shotgun starts (9 holes in the morning or afternoon, or both), prizes, swag, food and more.

Email rdavis@westportplayhouse.org to get on the invitation list, receive updates, and/or learn about sponsorship and auction opportunities.

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Aspetuck Land Trust’s next “Lunch & Learn” webinar explores how to create and manage landscapes for native bees.

Pollinator conservationist Heather Holm hosts the April 24 (12 to 1:30 p.m.) Zoom. It’s free to ALT members; $10 for non-members. Click here to register.


(Photo/Jen Greely)

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This morning’s “06880” lead story featured Westport Pride, the town’s LGBTQ organization founded 5 years ago, and led passionately since, by Brian McGunagle.

The piece did not describe his life beyond the group. Here’s a rundown.

After a career in IT project management and business operatios — with, among others, investment banks and hedge funds — McGunagle began studying for the Episcopalian priesthood.

He put that on hold when his second son was born 3 years ago.

At the same time, he joined a tech startup that, he says, “did not start up.”

Finding less and less joy in that work, he has now pivoted to a new business.

Just Call Brian is a suite of home services.  They include:

  • Maintenance and prevention
  • Handyman home repairs
  • Home monitoring and watching
  • Internet security for families.

For more information click here; email CallBrianCT@gmail.com, or call ‪203-429-4286.

Brian McGunagle

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Today’s quite colorful and very vernal “Westport … Naturally” photo was taken on Roseville Road.

But you can see beauties like these blooming all over town.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … On this day in 1775 — exactly 250 years ago — the British Army headed up the Charles River, to destroy patriots’ militia supplies. Paul Revere — an officer and silversmith — rode through the countryside, shouting warnings.

He was not the only one to do so. But he’s the guy we remember.

(Back in 1775 it was “one if by land! Two if by sea!” Today it’s “please click here to support your hyper-local blog.” Sure, this is important. But we wouldn’t be here without Paul Revere. Thanks!)

 

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Roundup: Redistricting, Commuting, Debating …

Posted on October 10, 2024 | 8 comments

The agenda for tonight’s Board of Education meeting (Thursday, 7 p.m., Staples cafeteria) includes updates from the Long Lots Building Committee, and on the Strategic Plan.

The board will also discuss elementary school redistricting. The current recommendation includes:

  • Transitioning approximately 51 Long Lots students to Saugatuck Elementary School for September 2025
  • Keeping the Integrated Resource programs at their current locations
  • Transitioning approximately 36 Kings Highway students to Coleytown Elementary School when the new Long Lots opens (likely September 2027)
  • Maintaining the current Greens Farms Elementary boundaries, but monitoring enrollment trends in 2025 and ’26 before considering transitioning approximately 33 GFS students to Saugatuck.

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Is the pandemic finally over?

Elle Bowen writes: “Not since COVID have I seen the Westport train station parking lot full.

“Wednesdays were starting to fill up, but there was not a spot this week on a Tuesday.

“Looks like ‘back to the office’ may soon be a reality.

(Photo/Elle Bowen)

What’s your work situation? Back to the office? Fully remote? Hybrid? Which would you prefer?

Click “Comments” below, to share your story.

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Tonight’s League of Women Voters debate — featuring candidates for State Senator and State Representative — is set for the Town Hall auditorium (7 p.m.). It will also be livestreamed on the town’s website and Optimum Channel 79.

Kami Evans and Ceci Maher are vying for State Senate District 26. Jonathan Steinberg and John Bolton are running for the State House in the 136th District.

Questions can be submitted to the moderators at lwvwestport@yahoo.com.

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The Westport Library is a very welcoming place for children and teenagers.

But this month, it gets frightening.

It’s all because of Halloween, of course. Among the events:

“STEAM Scene: Storybook Pumpkins”: Transform miniature pumpkins into your favorite book character. October 17, 4:30 to 6 p.m., grades 2-3; click here to register. October 24, 4:30 to 6 p.m., grades 4-6; click here to register.

Zombie Special Effects Makeup (Wednesday, October 23, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; grades 7 and up). Learn special effects makeup techniques to transform yourself into a zombie. Use kits with cotton balls, liquid latex, bruise makeup, fake blood and scar wax to create scars and rotting flesh. After the program, take home a kit. Click here for more information, and to register.

“Pink or Treat with Victoria Kann” (Sunday, October 27, 2 to 3 p.m.). After a reading from “Pinkalicious” author Victoria Kann, youngsters can join a costume parade, and trick or treat for Pinkalicious treats on Jesup Green. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Click here for more information, and to register.

Westport Library zombie!

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The Blondinit — the popular Israeli restaurant on Church Lane that opened in March — has added a brunch menu.

Served on weekends starting at 11:30 a.m., it includes salatim (small dishes with spreads, dips and pickles), salads, and specialty dishes like an omelet, eggs, baklava French toast, puff pastry, waffles topped with schnitzel, shakshuka, avocado toast, schnitzel sandwich and beef burger.

There are specialty cocktails too.

Owners Inda Sale and Solomon Sale also offer catering. The Yom Kippur menu serves 8-10 people, and must be ordered by midnight tonight (Thursday). Call 203-557-3277, or email resy@theblondinit.com.

The Blondinit brunch.

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between October 2 and 9.

A 40-year-old Stratford man was arrested for driving under the influence, and failure to drive in the proper lane, following a 1:37 a.m. incident on Post Road East near Roseville Road. An officer observed a van cross over the double yellow lines and continue into his lane, nearly causing a collision.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 3
  • Following too closely: 2
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 2
  • Failure to comply with traffic control signals: 2
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 2
  • Breach of peace: 1
  • Distracted driving, 2nd offense: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Unsafe backing: 1
  • Failure to yield to a pedestrian: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way at an intersection: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1
  • Failure to carry driver’s license: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Operating a motorcycle without license or permits: 1
  • Improper number of headlamps: 1

Slow down — and yield to pedestrians!

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Henry Lehr is coming back to Westport.

Sort of.

A sign announces the arrival soon of American Colors, on Post Road East between Barnes & Noble and Tiffany.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

The American Colors website says:

American Colors was Henry Lehr’s retirement project when it started as a simple garment dyed collection. He recruited Alex, his son, to sell for him. Alex spent his spring break senior year in Las Vegas with his dad selling. He kept selling after graduation, and found he was good at understanding customers and the business and how to connect the two. …

He worked with his dad for 9 years, before taking over design and resourcing. American Colorscontinuestoevolve, but we continue to be family-owned and domestically produced.

We are known for our wash and uniquely soft hand, as well as specialty fabrications in 100% organic Japanese natural fibers. Our designs have always been focused on classic silhouettes made from high-quality fabrics because Alex has close relationships with retail and wholesale customers he keeps a close eye on what their needs are, and how to build that into his collections.

Henry’s spirit of hard work and passion for business stays at the heart of American Colors, but Alex’s talent for finding and building lasting relationships keeps American Colors strong. His mom, Toni, continues to own and operate the Henry Lehr stores, and enjoys collaborating with Alex on designs from time to time.

There is no indication of when the Westport store will open.

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As today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows, the only good spotted lanternfly is a squashed spotted lanternfly.

This one was at Compo Beach. Here’s to many more.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … Cissy Houston, the Grammy Award-winning soul and gospel star who helped her daughter, Whitney Houston, achieve superstardom, died Monday in Newark. She was 91, and suffered from Alzheimer’s disease.

Beyond her daughter’s renown — and that of her her nieces Dionne and Dee Dee Warwick, and cousin Leontyne Price — she had her own notable career. On her own or with her group the Sweet Inspirations, she was a backup singer for Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, Wilson Pickett, David Bowie, Neil Diamond, Jimi Hendrix and hundreds of other stars. Click here for a full obituary.

Click below 3 out of the many songs Cissy Houston sang background on.

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