Tag Archives: Ann Chernow

Roundup: Duck Rescue, Book Shop Anniversary, Ann Chernow Birthday …

Posted on February 2, 2026 | 4 comments

On Saturday, Westport water pollution treatment plant supervisor Joe Tracy was making his rounds. It was cold; he was breaking up ice in one of the tanks.

He heard odd noises coming from the post-anoxic effluent basin. Stopping to investigate, Joe removed the heavy grating. Two mallard heads stared back up at him.

They were neck-deep in brown “foam” — trapped in one of the spillways.

Joe contacted on-duty Westport Animal Control Officer Peter Reid, across the street. He jogged over with a long net.

The ducks, a male and female — were transported back to Westport Animal Control, to warm up and be cleaned.

Officer Peter Reid, at Westport Animal Control.

Westport Animal Shelter Advocates volunteer Julie Loparo showed up with corn. She rocked the ducks like a baby in a warm towel.

WASA volunteer Sara Stockman arrived with frozen peas, and provided additional bathing.

Officer Reid happened to have a can of “gourmet” meal worms ready as well. He then took the mallards to Wildlife in Crisis. They were monitored, as they restored feather oil prior to release.

Thanks to all — starting with Joe Tracy — for going above and beyond, in weather that was cold even for ducks.

Ducks — before (left) and after rescue.

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The Westport Book Shop‘s 5th anniversary celebration continues this month.

Head to the Jesup Road store to see a special mosaic, by the legendary Miggs Burroughs. It celebrates the 60+ local artists who have exhibited there each month.

The Book Shop’s Short Story Club meets February 25 (6 p.m.). They’ll discuss 2
stories by Alice Munro: “What Is Remembered” and “The Bear Came Over the Mountain.”

Registration is required: Call 203-349-5141, or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

And in honor of Valentine’s month, make a $10 donation to support the Book Shop — and its mission of providing training an employment for people with disabilities — and get a chocolate bar, courtesy of Wegman’s.

You can also honor a loved on on the “Heart of Heart” window display.

Westport Book Shop “Heart of Hearts” display.

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Ann Chernow — one of Westport’s great artistic treasures — turned 90 yesterday.

She celebrated with family and close friends. “06880” joins the rest of the town in saying congratulating an artist who has enriched us in so many ways — from her work and her volunteer efforts, to her always-smiling presence.

Happy birthday, Ann!

Ann Chernow (Hat tip and photo/Jamie Walsh)

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Perrin Delorey — a 4th grader at Greens Farms Elementary in 2018 who played baseball and hockey, and was a Cub Scout — died in a car accident shortly before summer break.

Those 4th graders are now Staples High School seniors. They have not forgotten him.

Perrin’s cousin and best friend, Philip Sullivan, have created n endowed scholarship in his name. The first “Do Your Best” Award will be presented by Staples Tuition Grants this spring.

More than $30,000 has already been raised, ensuring that the funds will be awarded in perpetuity.

A new fundraiser is planned, so that the grants will be the maximum allowed under STG bylaws.

A community skating event is set for February 10 (7:15 to 8:45 p.m.; Westport PAL Rink at Longshore).

Everyone is welcome — to skate, watch, and enjoy the DJ and food. A photographer will capture the community feel.

At 9 p.m., a Perrin Delorey Memorial Cup hockey game will add to the fun. Click here to purchase tickets, and learn more.

Philip says, “one of the most special parts of this event is the range of community support behind it. There could be an entire story on the individuals, businesses and community groups that have donated precious time and money to help us raise the necessary funds to establish the award.”

He gives a special shout-out to Staples Tuition Grants, the Staples Class of 2026, Staples Service League of Boys, Staples boys and girls hockey teams, Westport Parks & Recreation, Scout Troops 39 and 139; Videler Photography, the host committee of individual and family donors, “06880,” and “countless members of the community who have helped us get so far with our fundraising efforts.”

Perrin Delorey

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Wakeman Town Farm’s February calendar includes classes and activities for all ages. They include:

Storytime with Mosaic & Movement (ages 2-6; February 4)
Drop-in Knitting Circle (February 10)
Kids’ February break Needle Felting Workshop (ages 11-14; February 16)
Winter cooking for Minis and Kids (grades K-2; 2-4)
Mardi Gras Cooking (February 24)
Meet the MVPs of Garden Tools (February 25).

Click here; then scroll down for details.

“Cooking for Kids,” at Wakeman Town Farm.

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Neighbors and Newcomers of Westport — a great organization that welcomes new arrivals and longtime residents alike — has a busy February. Events include:

Galentine’s Day Luncheon (February 12, noon, Zucca Gastrobar
Dining-In Cooking Group (February 25)
Book Group (February 26)

To learn more click here, or email eventsnnwestport@gmail.com.

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It’s like one of those “back in the day …” photos: frozen Sherwood Mill Pond.

Matt Murray — who chronicles the ever-changing scene there — offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

But even he hasn’t seen it like this too often.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … in honor of the great duck rescue (story above):

(If you click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution to “06880,” everything will be ducky. Thank you!)

4 Comments

Posted in Arts, Children, Environment, Local business

Tagged Ann Chernow, Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport, Perrin Delorey, Staples Tuition Grants, Wakeman Town Farm, Westport Animal Control, Westport Animal Shelter Advocates, Westport Book Shop, Westport PAL Rink at Longshore

Roundup: Jesup Green, Ann Chernow, Fleet Feet …

Posted on April 15, 2024 | 7 comments

A small group gathered yesterday, in support of Jesup Green.

The land between Jesup Road and the Westport Library is included in a plan to renovate downtown parking. Trees at the top of the green would be removed, to replace spaces slated to be lost across the Post Road at Parker Harding Plaza.

Green space would be added later, closer to the Saugatuck River at what is known as the Taylor lot.

Among the attendees were District 9 Representative Town Meeting members Sal Liccione and Jennifer Johnson. Their district includes Jesup Green.

The RTM may consider an appropriation for the Jesup repaving plan on May 8.

Members of Westport’s Tree Board also joined the group. So did Marliyn Harding, whose father Evan Harding designed Parker Harding.

Attendees were asked to sign a petition to review downtown parking plans for an option that does not jeopardize Jesup Green, proposed by attorney Lawrence Weisman.

Two meetings about downtown parking are scheduled for this week: tonight (Monday, 6 p.m., Zoom, RTM Planning & Zoning Committee) and Wednesday (April 17, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 309, RTM Environment Committee).

Both meetings generated a bit of controversy when they were announced. This week is spring break for the Westport Public Schools, and a number of residents are not in town.

Sunday’s Jesup Green meeting.

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Also yesterday, just few yards from Jesup Green, the Westport Library hosted a celebration of Westport artist Ann Chernow.

The event — inspired by film noir scenes of the 1930s through ’50s — included the premiere of a documentary depicting her life and legacy.

Afterward, her son (and Staples High School graduate) Dan Chenok led a panel discussion. It included actors Keir Dullea and Mia Dillon, film critic Susan Granger, and the film’s co-creator Andrea Wozny.

Dan Chenok (far right) with (from left) Keir Dullea, Mia Dillon, Susan Granger and Andrea Wozny.

The audience also heard from the artist’s cousin-in-law Ron Chernow, author of best-selling biographies like “Grant” and “Alexander Hamilton.”

Ron Chernow (Photos and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Fleet Feet’s “Zoomerang” kids’ running program returns May 5.

It runs Sundays at 1 p.m. through June 16, at Staples High School’s Laddie Lawrence Track.

Sessions are “run” by experienced youth coaches, led by Dave Wright, Fleet Feet Westport owner (and Staples High School girls track and field coach).

It’s open to any youngsters: experienced runners, newcomers, and athletes in other sports who want to get faster. Click here for more information.

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Augusta National golf course — where the Masters tournament concluded yesterday — is known for its magnificent magnolias.

Well, ours are not too shabby themselves. Barry Kresch captured water droplets on these, after a recent rain, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Barry Kresch)

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And finally … on this date in 1865, Abraham Lincoln died. He was shot the previous evening at Ford’s Theater, by famed actor John Wilkes Booth. Less than a week earlier, General Robert E. Lee surrendered his army to Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the Civil War.

Surprisingly, this was one of President Lincoln’s favorite songs. He had it played at political rallies, and after news of General Lee’s surrender. ”

(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — and Abraham Lincoln meets Jesup Green. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

7 Comments

Posted in Arts, Children, Downtown, Library, Local business, Local politics, Sports

Tagged Ann Chernow, Fleet Feet, Jesup Green, Parker Harding Plaza, Representative Town Meeting, Ron Chernow

Online Art Gallery #197

Posted on January 20, 2024 | 5 comments

Winter is here!

And our “06880” artists and photographers have been out all week (or stuck inside), creating stuff to submit.

Our largest-ever online gallery is chock full of wintry works. But there are a couple of summertime submissions as well.

That’s what makes this Saturday feature so interesting, week after week.

As always, we welcome your work. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — whatever you’ve got.

Email it to 06880blog@gmail.com. Share your work with the world! (PS: Please include the medium you’re working in — art lovers want to know.)

Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone is invited to contribute.

Untitled (Mary Madelyn Attanasio)

“Snow, Shovel, Tires, Boots, Snow” (Jerry Kuyper)

“Winter Blues” — side-by-side acrylics (Anne Bernier)

“Rocky Ridge Arbor” (Linda Doyle)

Untitled (Karen Weingarten)

Untitled (Kathleen Burke)

“Fish Tale” — encaustic wax, white birch assemblage (Dorothy Robertshaw)

Untitled — acrylic on canvas (Jodi M. Wallace)

“Fate” — lithograph (Ann Chernow)

“Shy” (Lawrence Weisman)

“A Still Life of Deposit Bottle Rejects” — pencil and watercolor (Steve Stein)

“Parisian Seahorse” — acrylic (Peter Barlow)

“Cusco’s MAMA Smoothie” (Mike Hibbard)

“Banana High Rise” (Tom Doran)

“Salvador, Bahia” (Wendy Levy)

“Portal” (Ken Runkel)

“Namaste” (Patricia McMahon)

(Entrance is free to our online art gallery. But please consider a donation! Just click here — and thank you!)

5 Comments

Posted in Arts

Tagged Ann Chernow, Dorothy Robertshaw, Jerry Kuyper, Karen Weingarten, Ken Runkel, Lawrence Weisman, Mike Hibbard, Patricia McMahon, Steve Stein, Tom Dolan

Roundup: Fire Chief, Longshore Inn, Drugs …

Posted on April 18, 2023 | 4 comments

Michael Kronick will retire as chief of the Westport Fire Department, effective May 15.

He’ll continue working though, with the state of Connecticut.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker says, “I appreciate that Chief Kronick has provided ample time with this announcement so that we may insure a smooth, seamless and professional transition at the Fire Department.

“The town of Westport and its residents have been very fortunate to be the beneficiaries of Mike’s expertise and dedication for many years. On behalf of the citizens of Westport, his fellow employees, and his firefighting colleagues, I am grateful for Mike’s longstanding and dedicated service to our community. I wish him much success in his future endeavors.”

Westport Fire Chief Michael Kronick.

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What’s happening with the Inn at Longshore?

In this week’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker talks about the new lease modification with Longshore Hospitality LLC. — and the long-needed updated.

Click below to listen, courtesy of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston:

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In a quick and quiet meeting yesterday, the ad hoc committee reviewing a resident’s complaint about 3 books in the Staples High School library formally approved a recommendation to the Superintendent: Keep them on the shelves.

The vote yesterday reflected the 3 votes — all unanimous — that the board took earlier this month.

The committee thanked assistant superintendent of schools Anthony Buono for writing the report, and the community for their support of its work.

The next step: superintendent of schools will read the report, and make a recommendation to the Board of Education.

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Sunday’s “06880” featured Dodie Pettit.

The longtime Westporter was an original “Phantom of the Opera” cast member. That night, she and a dozen others who inaugurated the show were to be honored at the final — and 13,981st — performance.

It was as spectacular an evening as the 35-year musical deserved. There were plenty of bows, by many of the people on stage, and behind the scenes, who made “Phantom” such a wonderful experience.

Here’s one video. Dodie strides proudly into the spotlight around the 1:35 mark, with Sarah Brightman, to well-deserved applause.

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Work has begun Work has begun at West Parish and Hillandale Roads for the installation of a 4-way intersection.

The Department of Public Works is handling the much-needed, long-awaited job.

(Photo courtesy of Westport Department of Public Works)

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Got drugs?

This Saturday (April 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Senior Center), the Westport Police Department partners with the US Drug Enforcement Administration, for the 24th annual Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

Residents are asked to look in medicine cabinets and drawers for medications that are no longer needed, or out of date. The service is free and anonymous, with no questions asked.

Take Back Day has removed more than 8,300 tons of medication from circulation since its inception.

Collection sites cannot accept illicit drugs, needles or sharps; only pills or patches.

Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container, with caps tightly sealed.

Vape pens with removable batteries can be disposed of at the take-back site. Vape pens without removable batteries are not accepted.

A year-round collection bin is available in the lobby of Westport police headquarters. Prescription drugs can be disposed of any time there. Click here for more information.

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Staples High’s April Students of the Month are seniors Tyler Darden and Charlotte Gurley, juniors Jonathan Dionne and Cade McGrath, and sophomores Jonah Bernstein and Vivian Shamie.

They have been honored for helping make the school a welcoming place for their peers and teachers. Principal Stafford Thomas calls them “the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students who keep the high school together.”

Students of the Month (from left): Jonathan Dionne, Cade McGrath, Jonah Bernstein, Vivian Shamie, Charlotte Gurley, Tyler Darden.

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More Staples news:

Seniors Jason Capozucca and Zoe Finger were honored recently at the 28th annual High School Arts Awards by the Connecticut Association of Schools, for their outstanding ability. Staff members selected Zoe for visual art, and Jason for music.

From left: art teacher Carla Eichler, Zoe Finger, Jason Capozucca, principal Stafford Thomas.

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Here’s a great idea: a fundraiser where your checkbook stays home.

In fact, you go home with a check in your pocket.

Just look at home for gold.

It may be in the form of broken chains or bracelets, old school rings, watches, earrings, jewelry you never wear — even dental gold.

Bring all the gold you can find to William Raveis Real Estate (47 Riverside Avenue) this Thursday, Friday or Saturday (April 20-22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

“Bob the Gold Man” will buy it, and hand you a check.

Then, over 60% of whatever profits are made after the refining process will be donated in your name to the Damon Runyon Foundation and the Dana Farber Cancer Center.

Reservations are preferred (click here), but walk-ins are accepted. Appointments are every 30 minutes.

Questions? Email Beverly.Walsh@raveis.com.

If you’ve got gold ingots lying around, bring them in too.

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Going down today: The small Cape at 330 Compo Road South.

It is — er, was — one of the few small houses on the right-side stretch of the road, between Bradley Street and Soundview Drive, as you head toward the water.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Another house that bit the dust: the one on the first Roseville Road curve coming from the Post Road, just beyond “Little Toot” illustrator Hardie Gramatky’s former home (#60) on the right.

Like Hardie’s — which is still standing — it was a handsome house.

Today, all that remains is this:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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Something different is on tap, at this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post.

Musicians and music lovers will celebrate the music of one of the greatest jazz drummers and bandleaders ever: Art Blakey.

Known as “Buhaina” or “Bu,” he is the father of hard bop. He produced and developed more jazz talent than any other leader of his era. His Jazz Messengers band was the Ivy League of jazz finishing schools,

This week (April 20, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7 p.m., VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399) — Part I of the tribute — features an all-star lineup playing classics from his Blue Note recordings of the 1960s.

Musicians include Jazz Messengers alum Steve Davis and Essiet Essiet (trombone and vocals/guitar, respectively), Bill Mobley (trumpet), Michael Cochrane (piano), Steve Johns (drums) and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall (saxes).

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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On Sunday, Westport artist Ann Chernow joined printmaker James Reed for the opening of “Collaboration 2020 Encore” at the Center for Contemporary Printmaking in Norwalk.

The exhibit addresses the alchemy of printmaking as it relates to prints of Pablo Picasso. Chernow and Reed combined their knowledge and experience to produce a complex series of lithographs, replicating the famed artist’s imagery.

It runs through May 21. (Hat tip: Ann Chernow)

Print by Ann Chernow.

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This was the view at Longshore on Sunday.

I wanted to be sure to post it quickly, as a “Westport … Naturally” feature. Every day during springtime here, the view and the colors change.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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And finally … on this day in 1775, Paul Revere (and other riders) warned the Massachusetts countryside of British troop movements. The Battle of Lexington and Concord was about to begin.

(From gold to drugs, today’s Roundup keeps you on top of the Westport news. And we do it every day. Please click here to support “06880.” Thank you!)

4 Comments

Posted in Arts, Education, Entertainment, Local business, Local politics, Longshore, Staples HS

Tagged Ann Chernow, Dodie Pettit, Fire Chief Michael Kronick, Jazz at the Post, the Inn at Longshore, Westport Fire Department, William Raveis Real Estate

Online Art Gallery #137

Posted on November 19, 2022 | 1 comment

What? No Thanksgiving art?!

We’ll manage.

And as you scroll through this week’s art gallery, remember to give thanks to all the artists — here in Westport, and in our broader “06880” online community, who share their work with us.

After all: This is your feature. All readers are invited to contribute. Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions.

All genres are encouraged. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage and (yes) needlepoint — whatever you’ve got, email it to 06880blog@gmail.com. Share your work with the world!

Untitled – watercolor and pen (Jude Siegel)

“Here Comes the Sun, In About an Hour” (Jerry Kuyper)

“Autumn” (Linda Doyle)

Untitled (Michael Chait)

“Compo Beach Ornament” — ,mixed media. Artist Peter Barlow explains: “At least 12 of these spires once adorned the brick bathhouses. After this one was knocked over in a 1950 hurricane, the town tore down all of them.”

“Three Modiglianis” (Tom Doran)

Untitled (Ann Chernow)

“The World’s Most Important Job” (Steve Stein)

Untitled (Karen Weingarten)

“Bridgeport Mansion 1891” (Lawrence Weisman)

“Gone But Not Forgotten” (Molly Alger)

“Neighborhood Watch Creature” (Mike Hibbard)

(Enjoying our weekly art galleries? Please consider clicking here, to help support “06880.” Thank you!)

1 Comment

Posted in Arts

Tagged Ann Chernow, Jerry Kuyper, Karen Weingarten, Lawrencr Weisman, Michael Chait, Mike Hibbard, Molly Alger, Peter Barlow, Steve Stein

Roundup: Vote, Vets, Arline Gertzoff …

Posted on November 7, 2022 | 3 comments

For the past 2 elections, Mark Yurkiw’s artwork (below) offered a reminder on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge of upcoming votes.

Tomorrow is Election Day. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. To find out where you vote, click here.

Connecticut voters will cast ballots for state legislators, governor and US senator. There’s also a referendum question: Should the state constitution be amended, to give the General Assembly the option to allow early voting?

A “yes” vote on this one seems like a non-partisan no-brainer. Right now, only 4 states — Connecticut, New Hampshire, Alabama and Mississippi — do not permit voting before Election Day.

(Photo/Mark Yurkiw)

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Veterans Day is a quasi-holiday. There are a few official closures, but mostly it’s business as usual. Veterans Day.

But if you can, make time this Friday (November 11) for the annual Town Hall ceremony.

The Community Band plays patriotic songs at 10:30 a.m. At 11 a.m. — the time the armistice ending World War I took effect — the program honoring all veterans begins.

Veterans of Foreign War Post 399, American Legion Post 63, town officials, veterans and a Staples High School student speaker will all take part.

Proud veterans at the 2018 ceremony. (Photo copyright/Ted Horowitz)

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Four Westport Police Department members were promoted last week to new ranks.

Congratulations to Sergeants Daniel Paz and Howard Simpson, Lieutenant Serenity Dobson and Captain David Wolf.

And thanks, of course, for your service.

The Westport Police Department promotion ceremony. From left: Sgt. Daniel Paz, Sgt. Howard Simpson, Lt. Serenity Dobson, Capt. David Wolf, Deputy Chief Samuel Arciola, First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Chief Foti Koskinas, Captain Eric Woods. (Photo and hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

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Friends and admirers of Arline Gertzoff are invited to a ceremony honoring her life this Saturday (November 12, 2:30 p.m., Town Hall).

The longtime jUNe Day hospitality chair, poll worker, RTM member, Democratic Town Committee activist and proud Staples High School graduate died in September, of esophageal cancer. She was 76.

Arline Gertzoff, at the Grand Canyon.

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William “Willie P.” Patterson died last month.

He was well-known in the Westport hospitality family, and a consummate professional. He served for many years at Mario’s, DeRosa’s, Viva Zapata and the Inn at Longshore, among others.

A friend says: “His wry sense of humor, kindness and cheeky smile were just a few of the things we loved about him. Many were lucky enough to know him well and call him a dear friend, but Willie was really a friend to all he met.”

At his request, there will be no funeral. Instead, friends are invited to celebrate his life on Sunday (November 13, Black Duck Café, noon to 4 p.m.).

Light food will be served, with a cash bar. Friends can bring pictures or stories to share.Digital photos for a slide show can be emailed to williepics2022@gmail.com.

“Willie P” Patterson

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Westporters know her as Julie DeLoyd. To her music fans, she is simply Julie Loyd.

By either name, she’s ready to record her 7th album — the first full-length one since 2008.

A lot has happened in that time, and she has 10 songs to share about it. The album goes back to her acoustic roots, with guitar, banjo, cello, upright bass, accordion and more.

“It’s earthy and honest,” Julie says. “I’m sharing stories from own family, about my friends, about love, about ambition. It’s an album that I couldn’t have written 15 years ago.

She’s funding much of it herself. But she’s started a $10,000 Kickstarter project to help cover studio and producer time, musicians, traveling to Nashville, graphic design and manufacture, and publicity.

Click here for more information, and to contribute.

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Ann Chernow has been an important part of Westport’s arts scene for decades.

But she’s not just ours. Her work has been shown nationally and internationally, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Brooklyn Museum, DeJong Musem, National University of Taiwan, el Aviv Museum Coupozoulos Museum in Athens and many others.

Now she’s got a new website. Click here to see her work. Click below for an intriguing interview, with Miggs Burroughs.

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Felice Pagliuso — well known to generations of Compo Barber Shop customers — died Thursday, surrounded by hsis family. The Norwalk resident was 73.

He was born in Calabria, and emigrated from Italy in 1971 with his wife. They began their new life in the US, and started a family.

Felice spent 47 years at Compo Barber Shop. When it closed, he moved nearby to Westport Hair &Co. He took great pride in his work, and earned rewards for his men’s hair styling.

Felice’s happiest role in life was being a grandfather. He found joy in family dinners, walks by the beach and playing Italian cards. He loved classical music and enjoyed going to Italian concerts.

Felice is survived by his wife of 52 years, Palma Torcasio Pagliuso; daughter Giovanna Pagliuso (Alex) Apazidis and son Antonio Pagliuso (fiancée Chrisavgi Sourgoutsis); grandsons Nikolaos and Anthony Felice Apazidis; brother Francesco Pagliuso, and several nieces and nephews. Felice was pre-deceased by his brother Antonio, sister Caterina and nephew Gianfranco Pagliuso.

Calling hours are today (Monday, November 7, 4 to 8 p.m., Raymond Funeral Home. 5 East Wall Street, Norwalk). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated tomorrow (Tuesday, November 8, 10 a.m. at St. Philip Church, 1 Father Conlin Place Norwalk. Entombment will follow in St. John’s Cemetery.

Felice Pagliuso

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The Westport Library is a hive of activity.

It’s also a literal hive — well, right near it, anyway.

Anne Pfeiffer spotted this the other day. It’s just right for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Anne Pfeiffer)

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And finally … happy 79th birthday to Joni Mitchell!

3 Comments

Posted in Arts, Local business, Obituaries, Police, Politics, Restaurants

Tagged Ann Chernow, Arline Gertzoff, Black Duck Cafe, Compo Barber Shop, Felice Pagliuso, Julie Loyd, Veterans Day, Willie Patterson

Roundup: Ignazio’s Pizza, Grace Salmon Park, Cribari Bridge …

Posted on July 15, 2022 | 6 comments

In May, “06880” reported that Ignazio’s was looking for a new owner.

The asking price was $275,000. Rent is $8,000 a month.

The restaurant in the former Bertucci’s space is now closed. Tables and chairs are stacked outside, and lights are off inside.

A phone call brings this cheery-sounding message: “Hi! You’ve reached Pizza Life, formerly Ignazio’s. We are remodeling, and will be back soon!”

Meanwhile, Ignazio’s’ website — still live — promises a new location, coming soon to Mystic. The original location was in Brooklyn.

Iganzio’s opened in Westport in November 2019, just 4 months before COVID struck.

Ignazio’s, this week. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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Grace Salmon Park is one of Westport’s most beautiful — and underrated — places to relax.

Yesterday, it was a classroom.

University of Connecticut master gardeners (and Westport residents) Monica Buesser, Alice Ely and Nathalie Fonteyne conducted an invasive plant workshop. It was sponsored by the Westport Garden Club.

Sixteen participants learned about the park’s top 15 invasive plants. They then broke into 4 groups, each canvasing a quarter of the site — and found several different invasives.

The next step: using the data to apply for a grant for removal of invasives from Grace Salmon.

Buesser — the conservation chair of the Westport Garden Club — plans to be at Grace Salmon Park every Thursday from 8 to 10 a.m. (weather permitting). She invites everyone interested in weeding or learning more about the park’s plants to join her.

“You can’t miss me. I wear overalls!” she says.

Grace Salmon Park is a beautiful spot. Like many in Westport, however, it is home to several invasive species. (Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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Seen on the Town of Westport’s Instagram:

The Public Works Department was out in force on Bridge Street. Workers cut back branches and brush that had encroached on the pedestrian walkway leading to Saugatuck.

It won’t make your drive over the Cribari Bridge any quicker. But it’s sure a boon to the many bikers, joggers and walkers who love the view.

(Photo courtesy of Department of Public Works)

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Three Westport non-profits have received CT Humanities grants:

United Nations Association Southwestern Connecticut, Westport: $4,980, for “When the Stars are Scattered” author/illustrator visits.
Westport Country Playhouse: $14,750 for the production of “From the Mississippi Delta” this coming October.
Westport Museum for History & Culture: $4,074 for “Saugatuck Stories: Walking Tour Exploring Diverse Experiences.”

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Sure, NASA is excited about the James Webb Space Telescope.

But the Westport Astronomical Society has Cal Powell.

The former WAS president hosts the “Cal & Friends Meteorite Show & Tell Party” on Tuesday (July 19, 8 p.m.).

Cal received his first meteorite in 2010, as a going-away gift from WAS. He started collecting them a few years later. His collection of nearly 400 specimens covers most meteorite classifications.

Cal will his present his extensive personal meteorite collection, and introduce Stefan Nicolescu with rare samples from Yale’s Peabody Museum. The WAS adds: “Bring your own meteorites and assemble your meteorwrongs!” Click here for more information.

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Noted local artists Miggs Burroughs and Ann Chernow hosted the third and final noir film last night, on the Westport Library’s large Trefz Forum screen.

“Nightmare Alley” was part of the series accompanying the artists’ “Double Indemnity” art exhibit, in the Library’s Sheffer Gallery. It runs through August 6.

Miggs Burroughs and Ann Chernow. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is as delectable as it gets: raspberries, straight from Lauri Weiser’s back yard.

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … Lauri Weiser’s photo (above) reminds us of …

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6 Comments

Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Restaurants, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged Ann Chernow, Department of Public Works, Grace Salmon Park, Ignazio's Pizza, Miggs Burroughs, Westport Astronomical Society, Westport Museum of History & Culture, William F. Cribari Bridge

Roundup: Hook’d (Of Course), Saugatuck River Bridge, Entertainment …

Posted on July 6, 2022 | 9 comments

A bit of good news from Hook’d!

They’ve finally posted their hours of operation on their door. They say they open at 11 a.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. weekends. They’re open until 8 p.m. 7 nights a week.

See you there!

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Unfortunately, that’s not the only Hook’d-related news today.

A reader writes: “A quick Google search of (concessionaire) Upsilon Ventures and (owner) Itai Shoffman uncovers all sorts of stuff, like unpaid taxes.”

Attached was a link to Southern District of New York District Court judgment in “United States of America v. Itai Shoffman.” He was held liable for $201,659.73 in unpaid federal income taxes for 2007 and ’08, plus interest.

The judgment was dated February 12, 2021 — nearly one year after he and Upsilon were awarded the concession contract for Compo Beach and Longshore.

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The Onion is known for repeating the same post-mass murder headline, month after tragic month: “‘No Way to Prevent This,’ Says Only Nation Where This Regularly Happens.”

Westport’s repeated headline is this: “Truck Stuck Under Saugatuck River Railroad Bridge.”

It happened again yesterday morning. A driver ignored the warning sign — “Clearance: 10 Feet, 11 Inches,” and plowed underneath.

As usual, the bridge won.

Yesterday at the Saugatuck Avenue railroad bridge. Similar scenes are repeated regularly. (Photo/David Stone)

Readers always offer suggestions, such as better warnings for truckers (particularly those coming off I-95 Exit 17 eastbound, and not paying attention).

The bridge itself can’t be raised. But what will happen to Northeast corridor train traffic if repeated accidents make it structurally unsound?

Meanwhile, every time a truck driver misses or ignores the warning sign, we all smack our heads in disbelief.

And take a detour.

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The magnificent Steinway piano — formerly at New York’s Village Gate jazz club — has not been played since the day before COVID struck Westport.

But tomorrow (Thursday, July 7, VFW Post 399, 465 Riverside Avenue), Janice Friedman joins “Jazz Rabbi” Greg Wall. She’ll play it again, at “Jazz at the Post.”

There are 2 sets: 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The cover is just $10; there’s also dinner from 6:30 on, with chef Derek Furino. Reservations are “strongly recommended” via email: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

Before COVID, the Steinway piano was played at 323 restaurant.

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If jazz is not your thing, what about art?

“Double Indemnity” — the Westport Library show of work by Miggs Burroughs and Ann Chernow, based on the noir classic — continues tomorrow and the following Thursday (July 7 and 14).

Both artist will be at the gallery, from 6 p.m. on. At 7, films will be shown on the Library’s big screen: “Detour” this week, “Nightmare Alley” next.

Popcorn and other goodies are available too.

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Meanwhile, just added for Friday, at the Levitt Pavilion:

Hayley Jane & The Primates combine Americana, soul and rock & roll. They bring a powerful vocal range, vibrant dance choreography and explosive energy. The opening act is One Time Weekend.

Click here for free tickets.

Hayley Jane & the Primates.

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Michael Wolfe has no idea who put a sign up on Marion Road this morning.

But, Michael says, “he’s clearly on a quest to spread the word/embarrass Denise on her birthday. Might as well help the cause!”

(Photo/Michael Wolfe)

So: Happy Birthday, Denise, from all your friends at “06880.”

But don’t worry … we won’t tell anyone else 🙂

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Every day, there’s family fun at Wakeman Town Farm.

But this Saturday (July 9, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.), it’s an official, capitalized Family Fun Day.

Kids of all ages can visit feed animals, plant sunflower seeds, and enjoy music from the School of Rock Fairfield. Food and drink for purchase includes ice cream, smoothies, iced coffee, lemonade and wood-fired pizza.

The schedule:

11 to 2:45: Animal visits; reading room
11 to 12:30: Buzzin’ Bees Craft
11:30 to 12:45: Seed planting
11:30 to 2:30: Pizza
12 to 2: Ice cream
12:30 to 2: Face painting
1 to 2:45: Flight of the Butterflies Craft
1 to 3: Music from the School of Rock House Band
1:15 to 2:45: Farm Olympics.

Click here for advance tickets. Walk-ins are welcome too.

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There’s a lot going on at Earthplace, too.

Canoe paddles along the Saugatuck River — in search of egrets, osprey, ducks, shorebirds and much more — are set for this Saturday (July 9, 10 a.m. to noon); Friday, August 12; Saturday, September 10, and Sunday, October 16. Click here for reservations and more information.

Family campfires, with (of course) roasting marshmallows — plus meet an animal ambassador, and enjoy s’mores and a guided activity. There is a different theme for each campfire. Each family has their own picnic table. Dates are July 15, September 16, October 21, November 26 and December 21. Click here for details.

Meanwhile, admission to the Earthplace Museum is free through September 5, for Connecticut residents age 18 and under, and one adult caregiver. Support comes from Connecticut Humanities, the Department of Economic and Community Development Office of the Arts, and ARPA.

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George Billis Gallery — now in a new location, 180 Post Road East — hosts an opening reception tomorrow (July 7, 5 to 8 p.m.).

“Ride the Wave” features 8 women artists, including Westporter Dale Najarian.

“Southampton Coastline” — oil on canvas (Dale Najarian)

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Round Pond is one of Westport’s most historic (and overlooked) sites.

Located near the Longshore entrance road — and across the street from the house F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald rented in 1920 — it was where social reformer Lillian Wald lived for many years. Eleanor Roosevelt was a frequent guest.

These days, it’s better known as a winter skating spot.

A small sign now notes its name. It’s in keeping with the beauty of the place — and a great image for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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Never heard of Hayley Jane & the Primates — this Friday’s Levitt Pavilion band (story above)?

Neither have I.

They’ve been around a while, apparently. Here’s a 2015 clip, from Bridgeport’s Gathering of the Vibes festival:

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9 Comments

Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Saugatuck, Transportation

Tagged Ann Chernow, Dale Najarian, Earthplace, Hook'd, Jazz at the Post, Levitt Pavilion, Miggs Burroughs, Saugatuck Avenue railroad bridge, Wakeman Town Farm

MoCA’s Westport Art Show Ends Saturday

Posted on March 8, 2022 | 1 comment

Last summer, the Westport Arts Advisory Committee and MoCA Westport began work on the first in an annual exhibition drawn from the Westport Public Art Collections.

The inaugural show — “The Westport Idea” — opened in January. It ends this Saturday (March 12). WAAC chair Nancy Diamond writes:

In 1968 Ann Chernow moved from New York to Westport, where her art school friend and future husband Burt Chernow already lived. Ann had no idea there were artists in Westport; she was looking for a good school system for her children.

She also did not know that since 1964, Burt had been collecting works from his artist friends and colleagues to create the Westport Schools Permanent Collection.

“Burt’s dream was to make fine art a daily part of students’ lives,” Ann says. He was an artist himself and a teacher at Greens Farm Elementary School. With no assistance and no budget, Burt began the collection that has grown to more than 2000 works today.

Walking around the Gallery at MoCA, Ann is flooded with memories.

Standing before a colorful painting (Boy’s Head, 1964) by modernist painter Paul Camacho, Ann recalls. “Burt, our children and I were good friends with Paul and his family.” WestPAC now has more than 30 of Paul’s works. Three are on exhibit at MoCA.

“Boy’s Head” (Paul Camacho)

Of her own work in the gallery, (Hercules, 1976), Ann explains, “It’s the only silk screen I’ve ever done. It turned out I was allergic to the materials.”

The piece is based on Bette Davis. When the legendary actress (and Westport resident) heard Ann was working on it, she visited the studio to check up on it.

Ann Chernow with “Hercules” (top).

Ann is riveted by Laszlo Moholy-Nagy’s crayon and pastel work, Chalk Composition (1946). “One day Baroness Hilla von Rebay, who was instrumental in developing the Guggenheim Museum, called Burt,” she says.

“Hilla asked whether he could stop by her Greens Farms home and possibly fix some paintings she had that were practically ruined. When he got there, Burt found this Maholy-Nagy, as well as a Kandinsky, rolled up on the windowsill.

“They were badly creased. Burt brought them home and flattened them, but you can still see the wrinkles behind the glass.

Photographer Larry Silver arrived in Westport a few years after Ann. When he got out of his car in 1973, he says, “I looked around and all I saw were pictures. The sky, the grass, the trees. I hadn’t even seen the water, but everything was a picture waiting for me to shoot.”

That day he and his wife Gloria found the least expensive house they could afford. He pulled out a check that he had received from a recent advertising campaign and handed it to the broker. “She probably was surprised when it didn’t bounce,” he says.

In 1996 he was invited by the Chinese city of Yangzou (now Westport’s sister city) to photograph their lifestyle. Six Dancers shows 6 deaf girls from the School for Blind and Deaf. They danced for us to a song called Mother, if I could only hear Your Voice Just Once. Larry says, “We all teared up. To do a portrait of the girls, I had to design this photo so each of the 6 faces were important.”

In 2021, Larry donated 30 compelling black and white photographs of his China trip to WestPAC.

Hanging below Larry’s photo at MoCa is a work by Bridgeport photographer Adger Cowans (Three Shadows, 1968). Larry met him 3 years ago. “His is a wonderful picture, reminiscent of the 1960’s styles of life in the streets. It’s beautifully designed.”

Larry Silver with Adger Cowans’ photo (top).

Larry had similar praise for Westport photographer Jerri Graham (Sisters, 2020). “This also is a beautifully designed, well-done picture. The girls look so carefree dancing, even wearing their COVID masks.”

In 2000, Westport’s Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Lynsey Addario made her first trip to Afghanistan to document the lives of women living under the Taliban. She returned there almost annually until 2014.

A Girl Visits a Shiite Shrine (2008) shows a young woman defiantly not wearing a veil. “The girl is centered in the picture and your eye goes right to her,” Larrysays. “It’s really good.”

Lynsey donated 33 images from her Afghanistan series to WestPAC in 2021.

The works of these Westport artists, as well as of their friends and colleagues, are on exhibit at MoCA in The Westport Idea through Saturday March 12. Click here for more information.

1 Comment

Posted in Arts

Tagged Ann Chernow, Larry Silver, MoCA Westport, Westport Permanent Art Collections