In other blizzard news: The Westport Library will open today (Tuesday) at 12 noon. That will give them (and their employees) a little more time to dig out.
The works are very creative, wildly eclectic, and always thought-provoking. The energy level is high. The artists are eager to chat. And the food and drink is free.
The next one is next Tuesday (March 3, 6 to 8 p.m., Sheffer Barn at the Westport Country Playhouse). Broadway music conductor and composer Caren Cole will play.
The gallery is then open March 4-8 (noon to 4 p.m.). An artist talk (on inspiration, medium, process and more) is set for March 8 (4 p.m.).
This show features works by members who recently joined the Collective:
Laura Appelman, Peggy Dembicer, Tim Eaton, Ira Hara, Julie Hicks, Tom Kretsch, Shelly Lowenstein, Paula Morgan, Erwin Ong, Butch Quick,
Jodi Rabinowitz, Elizabeth Hiltz Thomas, Michael Tomashefsky and Rowene Weems. (Some of those names are familiar to “06880” readers, for their wonderful photos.)
Pianist Ted Rosenthal has performed worldwide as a soloist, with his trio, and with greats including Gerry Mulligan, Art Farmer, Phil Woods, and James Moody.
He joins a quintet — bassist Martin Wind, drummer Tim Horner, trumpeter Alex Norris and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall — this Thursday, for Jazz at the Post (February 26; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7; VFW Post 399). Click here for tickets, and more information.
With all the snow, we need a bird photo to remind us that spring is not far away.
At least, we hope not.
Outstanding wildlife photographer Lou Weinberg snapped this mourning dove, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
(And yes, it’s “mourning” — not “morning.” The name comes comes from its melancholy coos. But it’s not a sound of grief — it’s a courtship call from the male.)
This is the final story in a 4-part series about the splintering of the Westport Arts Center, into what is now MoCA\CT and the Artists Collective of Westport. (Click on Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3.)
Our “06880” culture correspondent Robin Moyer Chung writes:
In 1996, Westport’s population was booming. Officials needed another school.
Despite a signed lease, and a promise from the schools superintendent that the Westport Arts Center would have the Greens Farms Elementary School building through 1999, he broke the lease and demanded they leave.
Greens Farms School, during its Westport Arts Center days — as portrayed by an artist with a studio there.
Greens Farms Elementary had been WAC’s home for almost 20 years.
Despite this, parents — many of them new to Westport — were upset that artists were taking up school space that could belong to their offspring.
Parents and other residents deemed the artists “frivolous,” and chastised WAC artists and board members.
The opponents did not know that the WAC had poured perhaps a million dollars — from studio rentals, dues, donations and ticket receipts — into repairs and maintenance.
Artur Holde Hall — an exhibit and performing arts space, in the former Greens Farms School gymnasium.
Greens Farms Elementary School was built in 1925. In 1991 it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Any work needed had to preserve its integrity. Such work was costly.
Opponents failed to acknowledge the WAC’s unique contribution to the community. It brought together national award-winning painters, musicians from international symphonies, well-known cartoonists, illustrators from major publications, an art instructor from the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art, and emerging talent.
One artist calls the decision to take back the school “a cultural crime.”
Compo Shopping Center offered WAC administrators a small office above Gold’s Delicatessen.
Artists, staff and board members took advantage of any exhibit space they could, including Earthplace and school auditoriums.
In 2002, they moved into their own space: a gallery on Riverside Avenue.
Westport Arts Center, on Riverside Avenue.
They remained there until 2019, when Mo\CA CT opened on Newtown Turnpike (see Parts 1 and 2).
Once again, many artists had no home.
But not all.
In a prescient move in 2014, 5 artists and WAC artistic director Helen Klisser During created the Artists Collective of Westport. The goal was to retain the WAC’s values and mission.
Four years later — amid rumors of the WAC evolving into MoCA — two Artists Collective members incorporated the organization as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit.
Their aim was to be “a more collegial group” — member-driven, with “renewed respect for local artists.”
Today there are roughly 150 ACW members. Painters, sculptors, photographers and other artists in Fairfield County inspire and assist each other in their creative process.
Artists Collective of Westport member Nina Bentley with her work, at one of the group’s quarterly shows. (Photo/Dan Woog)
A founding artist says that while some members enjoy renown and commercial achievement, the collective’s true measure of success is “how many of our members donate their time and talents to the community, and how much wall space we give to local artists who might not have any other opportunities.”
The Artists Collective partners with the Westport Country Playhouse. They host pop-up exhibits, special events and monthly meetings at the Lucille Lortel Barn.
One member says the Collective “opened the door to this whole new group of people that I wouldn’t have had the chance to know.”
The Artists Collective of Westport also opens doors for area art-lovers to meet, enjoy — and buy the works of — local working artists.
Last month — nearly a decade after the Artists Collective was formed, and Mo\CA CT opened its doors — Mo\CA’s outgoing and incoming executive directors, Pamela Hovland and Robin Jaffee Frank, attended the opening reception for the Collective’s holiday exhibit.
It was the first time a MoCA director had attended an Artists Collective exhibit.
Though the “divorce” was difficult, and my interviews with artists from those periods dug up still-raw emotions, both sides agree that MoCA\CT and the Artists Collective of Westport have made the town’s arts community more vibrant.
That is the power of a collective passion.
(“06880” regularly covers the Westport arts scene, in all its forms. We highlight the history of our town too. If you enjoy stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
On Tuesday, “06880” culture correspondent Robin Moyer Chung checked out the Artists Collective of Westport winter exhibit, at the Westport Country Playhouse barn. All works are 12″x12″ — and all are for sale. She reports:
This time of year is always stuffed with craft sales, pop-ups and gift guides. The Artists Collective’s is one of many.
Yet unlike many of these shopping events, this exhibit has a soul.
With a nod to consumerism, all of the paintings are portable, at one square foot, and at affordable price points.
(Artist/Tammy Winser)
The unintended and interesting consequence of this democracy is that it allowed me to consider the uniqueness and substance of each work, rather than thinking, gift-wise, of its size and practicality.
Which doesn’t mean I think all of them are great. I don’t. A couple of pricier ones feel as though the artist expects us to be grateful for the opportunity to own a toenail clipping from their body of work. Yeah, no.
But these don’t detract from those truly effective in their narrative and worth.
“Celebration” by Lynn U. Miller, with her studied and swirly swoops of ribbons and confetti, is so optimistic and energetic that I stepped in close to see the brushstrokes and markings.
“Celebration” (Lynn U. Miller)
Looking at Ken Runkel’s “Honey, Come Quick, There’s A Spider In the Tub!” I laughed out loud, both for its masterful, humorous nightmare of an arachnid, and because it was painted by a man — and we all know that men should be our protectors against all things spidery and rodent.
Virgina Zimmerman’s “Twilight – Mykonos, Greece” is a quiet, sturdy homage to a near-mythic island that now crawls with tourists. She somehow blends the island’s notorious color scheme — bright white and bright blue — into a serene palette.
“Ruby and Amethyst,” with artist Mary Harold
,In “Sun Solstice,” Jennifer Wyman made the photo of a colorful dahlia on a sunny day into a sepia print, focusing not on the blossom’s beauty but on a drama and resoluteness belying its ephemerality.
There are other stories — one artist’s canvas honors her journey when 11 people in her life passed away within several months of each other. Another artist stumbled onto a local-sh store window displaying 2 dolls, compelling her to stop and photograph them because they were “so creepy.” (And it is. Was. Hopefully the dolls have been removed.)
(The Artists Collective of Westport exhibit runs through December 21, at the Westport Country Playhouse barn. Gallery hours are noon to 4 p.m.)
Part of the whimsy of the exhibit: This is not a work of art. It’s the actual HVAC system for the Playhouse barn. (All photos/Robin Moyer Chung)
The Board of Selectmen invites all residents to join them for an informal community conversation this afternoon (Wednesday, 3 p.m., Town Hall Room 201/201A).
It’s the first in an ongoing series. The goal is to provide “an open, welcoming space for residents to stop by, ask questions, share thoughts, and raise topics of interest related to town government.”
Speaking of local businesses, Chris Grimm writes: “You would think, given that their clients are largely sick and old, Walgreens would clear their parking lot of snow.”
The Artists Collective of Westport’s 12×12 Holiday Exhibit opened last night, at the Westport Country Playhouse barn.
Interestingly, all works are 12×12. And all are for sale, just in time for the holidays.
The show runs through Sunday (December 21, noon to 4 p.m.).
Admiring some of the dozens of 12×12 pieces.
The pianist at last night’s Artists Collective opening was not some random guy. It was Mark Naftalin: founding member of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, and Westport resident. (Photos/Susan Garment)
Like many trail and ultra runners, Jes Parker loves and appreciates the outdoors.
Yet, she knows, runners often engage in behaviors that are not exactly environmentally sound.
Long distance runners, for example, experiment often with gear. Before finding what’s comfortable or works well, they’ve missed return dates, snagged the fabric or others made items non-returnable.
But wait! Don’t throw them out!
Jes — a Westport resident — is building a business that keeps trail running goods, and other running synthetics, out of landfills.
At the same time, it makes the sport more accessible.
Take2Trail — Parker’s brainstorm (and a great, clever name) — buys those items. She then resells them, at a deep discount.
Parker knows that buying and selling on internet peer-to-peer sites can be unfulfilling. Items are strategically photographed to hide warts; they’re not always delivered; meet-up exchanges fall through.
People hyper-focused on their fitness, family — and full-time jobs — don’t have the time or patience to jump through hoops to keep things out of landfills (or even take them to Goodwill).
Take2Trail a great idea. Fleet Foot owner Dave Wright has helped too, donating some return inventory and other sunk cost items.
The 2022 Staples High School graduate, and current senior soccer player at Johns Hopkins University, has been named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-America team.
Coleman — a neuroscience major with a 3.95 GPA — is also an All-Centennial Conference 2nd team pick.
He was named to the Allstate NACDA Good Works team for fall sports, for his efforts as president and fundraising chair of Baltimore Scores in STEM. The mentorship program supports local youth pursuing STEM education.
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Staples High School Class of 1963 graduate Sam Pair has published “Le Yankee Noir: The Power of Acceptance.”
The write-up on Amazon says: “In the global aviation industry, where building cross-cultural relationships is essential, cultural gaps and accepting others unlike ourselves remain issues.
“A veteran aerospace engineer with vast experience with inter-cultural bridge building, Samuel E. Pair has created a book that illuminates the value of acceptance and its influence on creating the climate for building trusting cross-cultural relationships.
“The culmination of a frustrating career journey — still healing after multiple rejections to his quest to enter a prominent management development program, an African American aerospace engineer is surprisingly summoned to the south of France in 1994 by French aircraft industry leaders.
“Tasked with managing the oversight of the recovery of a floundering new jet propulsion program for intensely anticipated jet liners, his reflection on the experiences of interacting with French and other nationalities on-site, explores the power of mutual acceptance and its influence on inspiring, motivating and propelling him through a myriad of formidable issues and a life threating condition.
“While ruminating about the significant events and consequential happenings during this twelve-year period, he is drawn to the factors that promoted his transformation, the ability to build relational bridges over cultural divides and contributed to his success. He shares them in this book.”
And finally … in honor (sort of) of Jes Parker’s excellent idea for reusing running gear:
(Where would you be without “06880” telling you there will soon be a new Pilates place in town? If you enjoy news like that — and much more — please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thanks!)
Tom Kretsch is a longtime Westport, a retired teacher — and a noted photographer. He writes:
The warmth of the holiday spirit was alive and well in Branson Hall at Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church last Wednesday evening.
Festive decorated tables, a tasty dinner, a large assortment of home-baked desserts, holiday music drifting through the air, and of course the arrival of Santa Claus for young ones.
The occasion was Homes with Hope‘s annual holiday party for the many people blessed to have the help and services of this fabulous organization.
In addition to Gillespie Shelter for men and Hoskins Place for women, they offer affordable housing for those in need, meals, a food pantry, counseling, tutoring and so much more.
It was a joy to be there as a guest and a member of the Artists Collective of Westport, which had organized a special “Art from the Heart” project. Through donations by members, every family at the party could choose a piece through a free raffle.
As dinner wound down, it was time for folks to choose their favorites. Everyone had time to view the art beforehand.
Admiring art, before the raffle.
Watching all this evolve was heartwarming. A mother and daughter chose a piece of gorgeous mystical flowers.
A man dressed in holiday clothing chose a stunning portrait of a horse. He held it, then raised it over his head as if he had just won the Super Bowl, singing out in glee.
I walked up to a woman who had chosen one of my photographs, a huge Ferris wheel taken in Wildwood, New Jersey. I introduced myself and told her a little about the image. She was so pleased, and asked to have a picture taken of us.
Tom Kretsch’s Ferris wheel photo.
Ken Runkel, an artist who donated a piece, also spoke with the people who had chosen his. He too was touched by the warmth and gratitude of the recipients.
And so, it went on until the last piece was taken.
As many were gathered by the piano singing holiday songs, I chatted with Helen McAlinden, president and CEO of Homes with Hope. With her sweet Irish accent and always positive spirit, she is a dynamic and charismatic leader.
As we talked, she told me in a whisper that one of the people who had gotten a photograph said to her, “I wish I had a wall to put it on.”
I almost couldn’t comprehend what I had just heard. Is this possible? Here in Westport, someone does not have a wall of their own to put a picture up. He has no personal space.
That touched the core of my being.
Art can do so much for a person — whether making it or looking at it. It can help comfort, soothe, inspire, create, think, imagine, hope, change, care, heal and smile.
The Artists Collective of Westport made a nice step toward bringing art into people’s lives who might not have the means to purchase it through its holiday “Art from the Heart” project.
The next morning Helen took me on a tour of the Gillespie Center. She showed me the fantastic food pantry, and all the facilities of the recently renovated center. I had not been there in a while.
As we walked through the men’s shelter, I passed several of the beds. Lying on them were the pieces of art they received the night before.
I am sure the wish for a “wall of their own” was also in their thoughts.
Phil Ochs wrote a song some years ago, called “There but for Fortune.” It speaks to the fragility of life:
I’ll show you a young man with so many reasons why
And there but for fortune go you or I, you and I.
As we look at our walls, may we all remember our own good fortune.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie says: Westport will soon complete its state-mandated property revaluation. Connecticut law requires all municipalities to conduct a revaluation every 5 years.
Property owners will receive updated assessment notices by mail on or about December 8. They reflect assessed values as of October 1, based on field reviews and sales analysis completed by the Assessor’s Office and Vision Government Solutions. Assessed value is 70% of fair market value.
Residential values have risen sharply since the October 2020 revaluation. Estimates indicate an average increase of about 61% for residential properties, and about 17% for commercial properties. Individual assessments will vary.
A higher assessment does not mean your taxes will rise by the same amount.
A change in your assessment is only part of how property taxes are calculated. When the overall Grand List increases, the mill rate typically decreases (all else being equal). Any change to your tax bill will depend on how your new assessment compares to others in town, and on the Town’s approved budget in spring 2026.
Updated property data and values will be available online once notices are sent.
Property owners who believe information about their property is incorrect, or who would like to discuss their valuation, can request an appointment with Vision later in December.
Appeal applications to the Board of Assessment Appeals will be available after the Grand List is signed. They must be filed by February 20, 2026.
Main Street may soon have a new casual dining space.
159 Main Street — occupied most recently by a deli with that name; before that, Rye Ridge and, most famously for decades, Oscar’s — will be the site of Luya.
Westport Journal reported today that the family spot — with smoothies, along with healthy and diner food — is the third project for Ciara Webster, Patrick Jean and Zoli Kovacs.
They are the owner, general manager and chef of Nômade, across the street from Luya.
The trio are also partners in Anan. The French-Vietnamese restaurant — on the site of the former 190 Main — also hopes for a spring opening.
Long-time Westporters remember 159 Main Street as Oscar’s Deli. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
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On Wednesday, Playbill posted a long, intriguing story about the 6 actors who play the lead role every night in “Masquerade,” the innovative, immersive staging of “Phantom of the Opera.”
One of the six — Staples High School graduate Clay Singer — is one of the youngest to play the Phantom ever, anywhere.
His insights into his character — how he prepared for it, how he plays it — are well worth reading.
But the piece is notable for something else: homages by the actors to Kevin Gray. Broadway’s first-ever Asian American Phantom in 1990 has the same roots as Singer. Gray graduated from Staples in 1976. Both Westport Phantoms were Staples Players stars.
Gray died of a heart attack, at just 55 years old, in 2013 — just 4 months before Singer graduated from Staples.
Westport art teachers are superb educators. From elementary through middle and high school they instruct, encourage and inspire students to express themselves creatively and fully.
But those teachers are superb artists themselves.
Now through January 3rd, they’ve got a showcase for their own work.
One River School’s Westport Art Teacher Exhibition provides a special opportunity to see the personal and professional sides — and the wide range of mediums and styles — of Mark Derosa, Cecily Cowburn Anderson, Stephanie Sileo, Angela Simpson, Paula Morgan, Timothy Soper and Danilo Sierra-Giraldo.
A reception is set for December 18 (5 to 7 p.m., 833 Post Road East). The public — including students — are invited to check out this other perspective on Westport’s art teachers.
Part of the Westport Art Teacher Exhibition, at One River Gallery.
Speaking of art: The Artists Collective of Westport’s 12×12 Holiday Exhibit runs December 17 -21, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Westport Country Playhouse barn. The opening reception (December 16, 6 to 8 p.m.) features food, beverages, and music by Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Mark Naftalin (Paul Butterfield Blues Band).
All works are 12×12. And all are for sale, just in time for the holidays.
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We’re just one day away from the Westport Downtown Association/”06880″ Holiday Stroll.
And merchants keep signing up for giveaways and promotions.
The latest is Chocolatieree. The Church Lane shop offers “blissfully toasted and gooey s’moresticks,” with every purchase of at least $20.
That — and 60 other specials — are part of tomorrow’s (Saturday) Stroll. Some are available only during the Stroll itself (4 to 7 p.m.); others run all day. Click here, then scroll down for the full list.
Among the attractions at the 5th annual Holiday Stroll: caroling with the Staples Orphenians, selfies with Santa and Westport’s favorite piglet, thanks to Riverside Realty Group (plus the brand-new downtown clock), face painting, a DJ, a “letters to Santa” mailbox, and much more.
The Staples Orphenians are a Holiday Stroll favorite. (Photo/Dan Woog)
See you at the Stroll!
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As the weather gets cold, Earthplace heats up. On tap this month:
Winged Wonders (Sunday, December 7, 1 to 1:30 p.m.; free with admission): Experience birds of prey outside their enclosures, in a bird-on-glove demonstration.
Kids’ Night Out (December 12, 6 to 9 p.m., ages 4-13; $50 members, $60 non-members): A nature-themed evening, including a winter-themed movie, popcorn, and a special treat from Bartaco
Winter Solstice Campfire (December 21, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; member families $25, non-member families $35): Celebrate the days getting longer with s’mores, a craft project, and a roaring fire.
Also: Drop-off programs — with immersive, nature-based experiences — begin January 6:
Free-Range Homeschoolers (Wednesdays, 1 to 3p.m., ages 4-11)
Lil’ Naturalists (Wednesdays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades K-2)
Nature Art Club (Thursdays, 4 to 5 p.m.,. grades 3-6)
Junior Staff (Fridays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades 6-12_
Animal Care Crew (Tuesdays, 4 to 5 p.m., grades 6-12).
Speaking of Earthplace: They just received a $162,600, from the Long Island Sound Futures Fund.
The grant will help provide watershed science programs for high school and college students. The total amount of the project $243,900. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)
Staples High School’s November Students of the Month are seniors Jennifer Londono and Avery Michalowski, Jaicelynn Denny and Elias Ramos, sophomores Lucy Bughman and Noa Katz, and freshmen Max Landau and Blake Serotta.
Students of the Month are “the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students (who make it) the special place it is.” Nominations are made by teachers.
From left: Blake Serotta, Avery Michalowski, Jaicelynn Denny, Lucy Bughman, Noa Katz, Elias Ramos.
Westport resident Julie Parillo died in her sleep yesterday. She was 65 years old.
A 1978 graduate of CVA in Norwalk, Julie began her career at Deluxe Check Printers in Norwalk before moving to New Jersey, where she worked for One Call Medical.
Julie loved all creatures, especially her dogs Reba and Brandy. She was a kind and gentle soul who treasured time spent with her family and with her best friend, Teresa Smith.
She is survived by her mother Arlyne, brother Peter (Dana) Parillo, niece Jessica, nephew Dan, close cousin Pamela Mahon, and several other cousins. Her best friend was Teresa Smith. She was predeceased by her brother, Michael Parillo.
A funeral is set for December 9 (10 a.m., Harding Funeral Home). Interment will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Road, Newington, CT 06111.
Julie Parillo
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Every full moon draws “06880” photographers.
It’s tough to choose. But this shot by Rick Benson — overlooking Old Mill Beach, at very low tide — works especially well for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … Steve Cropper — who the New York Times calls “the prodigious guitarist, songwriter and producer who played a pivotal role in shaping the lean gutbucket soul music made at Memphis’s Stax Records in the 1960s and ’70s,” died Wednesday in Nashville. He was 84.
Casual music fans may not have known his name. But nearly everyone knows his work: the “snarling Fender Telecaster lick” on Booker T & the MGs’ “Green Onions”; the “ringing guitar figure” that opened Sam & Dave’s “Soul Man,” and the “bell-toned guitar work” on Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay” (which he co-wrote). He later worked with the Blues Brothers.
In 2015 he was ranked 39th on Rolling Stone‘s list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. In 1996, Mojo had him second — behind only Jimi Hendrix.
The Times notes, “the original MG’s lineup, with both Black and white members (Mr. Cropper was white), helped integrate Stax at a time when the four men would not have been permitted to appear on a public bandstand together in the segregated South.” Click here for the full Times obituary.)
Staples High School graduate Roger Kaufman — a musician and events producer with Old School Music — knew Cropper. Kaufman urged him to donate the guitar he played on “Dock of the Bay” to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
On December 1, 2016 — almost exactly 9 years ago — there was a special ceremony there. In attendance were Booker T. Jones, Sam Moore, Eddie Floyd, and members of the Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas and Isaac Hayes families. Cropper and his band played many of their greatest hits.
Then the guitar went on display — right next to Judy Garland’s “Wizard of Oz” slippers.
The multinational retailer of beauty and personal care products — famous for letting customers test products before buying — will move into “Elm & Main” (formerly known as Brooks Corner) downtown.
They’ll open at the end of 2027 or early 2028. A mere 2 years from now.
Not the Westport store. This Sephora is on 5th Avenue in New York.
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It’s (almost) that time of year.
Starting next Wednesday (October 1), dogs are allowed back on Compo Beach.
With a few caveats.
They are prohibited from the pavilion, playground and walkways.
All dogs must be leashed everywhere, except in the off-leash area of south of the pavilion (which includes South Beach).
You are required by law (and common decency) to pick up your dog’s poop.
The dogs-at-the-beach regulations are in effect through March 31. Violators can be fined $77.
And remember: Dogs are not permitted on town athletic fields or playgrounds at any time. They are welcome — leashed — in surrounding areas.
Happy days are here again! (Photo/Dan Johnson)
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Speaking of dogs: Uh-oh. Looks like we missed National Dogs in Politics Day. It was Tuesday.
The annual event commemorates the September 23, 1952 speech by Richard Nixon. Running for vice president with Dwight Eisenhower, he defended himself in a speech against accusations of campaign finance wrongdoing by mentioning his cocker spaniel, Checkers.
Westport’s “animal muse” Cat Malkin, and her dog Yogi Bear, did not forget the day. They visited a couple of politicians — from both parties — and he released a statement.
Yogi Bear said: “I’m not here for your votes. I’m here to spread love, kindness, and fuzziness wherever I go, especially if there’s a treat involved!
“As we go into the campaign season, let’s make Westport the kindest (and most treat-filled) town in the land! I invite you to join us, dogs, as we come together to unite the country in love, kindness, and the right to bark.”
Yogi Bear with Republican 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker …
… and Democratic 1st selectman candidate Kevin Christie. (Photos/Cat Malkin)
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A few tickets remain — but probably not for long — for the Westport Country Playhouse’s fundraiser, honoring Nathan Lane, on Saturday, October 4.
Broadway talents who have appeared with the star, including host Danny Burstein, will celebrate his career.
They will also salute productions that have been staged at the Playhouse in the 95 seasons since its founding in 1931.
Anne Keefe, former Playhouse co-artistic director, will be feted too. She’ll receive the 2025 Playhouse Leadership Award.
Lane and Keefe are longtime friends — and friends of the WCP.
The 7 p.m. curtain includes a live auction, and a 9 p.m. after-party in the Lucille Lortel White Barn. The pre-show reception is already sold out.
For tickets and more information, click here or call 203-227-4177.
Nathan Lane
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Peter Greenberg — America’s premier travel news journalist, an Emmy Award-winning investigative investigative reporter and producer, who has appeared on every major TV network and in every national publication — brought his insights and experience to the Westport Library last night.
The Y’s Men of Westport-Weston hosted the event, which drew a crowd of hundreds. He was joined in conversation by longtime friend and fellow world traveler Allen Swerdlowe, a Y’s Men member.
Peter Greenberg (left) and Allen Swerdlowe, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Susan Garment)
Before the talk Robin Tauck hosted a small dinner for Greenberg, at nearby Massi Co restaurant. A 3rd-generation member of the family whose name is synonymous with global travel, she has known Greenberg for decades, and been on industry panels and at conferences with him around the world.
TAP Strength is all about helping people feel more confident and capable in their bodies. A new program supports an important group: neurodivergent teens and young adults.
The next event in their “Effortless Effort” speaker series is October 14 (6 to 7 p.m., 180 Post Road East). at its Post Road East studio. It’s a conversation between TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Chelsea Elkind and Lauren Rosenblum, founders of Westport-based NeuroMind. They’ve helped TAP design a program that is inclusive, supportive, and grounded in real-world needs.
The 6th annual (and always popular) Artists Collective of Westport trunk show is October 5 (11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Jesup Green lower parking lot by the Westport Library).
More than 30 diverse artists will display their work — in and around their cars. The day includes live music, and food from Gruel Britannia.
Earlier this year, he Westport Community Theater presented “Words from the Front Lines” at Town Hall.
Many Westporters learned about it the show — a multi-media presentation of the correspondences of real people, in real time, affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine — too late to attend.
The Westport-Weston Probate Court is mourning the death of former chief clerk Shirley DeLuca. She died September 13 at Norwalk Hospital, of natural causes. She was 89.
Probate Court Judge Lisa Wexler says: “Shirley will be remembered by all who knew her as loyal, devoted, bright, hardworking and kind.
“She had unfailing patience for the countless bereaved and vulnerable people who entered Probate Court. Taking a seat by Shirley’s desk, one could pour out one’s heart to Shirley, and she would promptly help solve the problem.
“Generations of local practitioners learned their craft from Shirley, including me. For over 30 years Shirley served our community with love, humility and grace.”
She is survived by her husband Harold and son Glenn. She was predeceased by her son Harold III.
Services are private. Condolences may be sent to Westport- Weston Probate Court, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880. All letters will be forwarded to the family.
Shirley DeLuca
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Today’s “06880” feature photo is one of our coolest ever.
And most colorful.
Clarence Hayes captured this bumblebee, sipping goldenrod nectar.
And finally … Olivia Newton-John was born today, 77 years ago. The highest-selling Australian female artist of all time died in 2022, after battling breast cancer.
A star-studded bunch of Westporters and friends turned out for Saturday’s family-and-friends preview at Massi Co.
The Neapolitan-style pizzeria and Southern Italian restaurant officially opens tonight. It replaces Don Memo, in Westport’s original Town Hall, across the Post Road from Patagonia.
The newly refreshed space features Naples wood-fired pies, fresh pastas, craft cocktails, and a curated all-Italian wine list.
Guests included actors Marika Domińczyk and Scott Foley, private equity manager Marc Lasry, sports journalist (and Staples High School graduate) Andrew Marchand, ESPN chair Jimmy Pitaro, and New York Road Runners CEO Rob Simmelkjaer.
Owners of the new, highly anticipated restaurant are Massimo Tullio; Mark Shapiro; president and COO TKO Group Holdings, parent company of UFC and WWE; Charlie Collier, president of Roku Media; hospitality entrepreneur Ron Tarsy, and Newmark executive Matt Leon.
The fresh new interior at Massi Co. (Photo/Jenae Weinbrenner)
Also opening tonight: Dandelion. The Mediterranean restaurant in the new Delamar Westport hotel hosted its own high-energy party Saturday night.
Staples High School sophomore Chloe Mitchell, and home-schooled 5th grader Hunter Carleton, are more than just interns at local educational toy company Domino & Juliette. The firm focuses on screen- and sensory-friendly learning tools for young children.
They’re helping the brand — and youngsters in need.
For every order D&J receives, they’ll donate a 24-pack of Crayola crayons to schools in need.
They just conducted their fourth crayon drop: 2,700 packs of crayons, to 7 Bridgeport schools.
Later this month, they’ll deliver their 4,000th pack.
Secret feelings, thoughts and dreams are the centerpiece of the Artists Collective of Westport’s pop-up show September 17, 19, 20 and 21 (noon to 4 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse barn). There is an artists’ talk at 4 p.m. on September 21.
A special wine and hors d’oeuvres reception on September 18 (6 to 8 p.m.) offers a chance to meet the 8 artists in the show: Hernan Garcia, Mary Harold, Holly Hawthorne, Gail Ingis-Cluas, Elisa Keogh, Jean Krasno, Lucy Krupenye, Nancy Lindauer, Jay Petrow, Barbara Ringer and Karen Schlansky.
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Sunday’s running of the myTeam Triumph Triathlon continued a 20+ year tradition, uniting 7 myTeam Triumph’s “captains” (athletes with disabilities) and over “angels” (volunteer helpers).
Despite rain, athletes of all kinds showed up with heart and determination. Triathletes from across the region swam 1/2 mile, biked 5 miles, and ran the 2 1/2-mile super sprint course (½ mile swim, 5-mile bike, 2.5-mile run) as individuals or on relay teams.
Westporters making the highlights reel included captains Jacquie Marumoto (completing her first myTeam Triumph event) and Rohan Stokvis (finishing his first-ever triathlon).
In the overall competition, Westporter Sophie Chevrier placed 2nd among female finishers.
Volunteers made the day possible: individuals, and groups from the National Charity League, Staples Service League of Boys, and Staples High School girls swim and dive team, and boys track and field squad.
myTeam Triumph is part of a nationwide nonprofit, led locally by Westporter Todd Ehrlich. They welcomes donations and volunteers, and encourage individuals with all types of disabilities to participate. Their next event is a 5-Mile race in Darien on September 21.
Hard to believe, but Club203 is about to begin its 4th season!
Westport’s social organization for adults with disabilities welcomes old friends and newcomers at a “Barnyard Bash” (September 16, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Lachat Town Farm, Weston).
Guests are encourage to wear flannel shirts and cowboy hats. Entertainment includes line dancing, games, treats, and (as always) art by MoCA CT.
Also yesterday: Walt Mattison of the Fairfield Museum reminded the Y’s Women about the beginnings of Fairfield and Westport.
Just 19 years after the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, Fairfield was formed.
Westport was not incorporated until 1835, breaking away from Norwalk, Weston and Fairfield. Greens Farms — part of Fairfield — joined Westport in 1845.
Internationally acclaimed pianist/composer/author Jeb Patton headlines this Thursday’s “Jazz at the Post” (September 11, VFW Post 399; 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. shows; buffet dinner at 7 p.m.).
He’ll be joined by trumpeter/flugelhorn player Michael Mossman, bassist Matt Dwonszyk, drummer David Alvarez, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
Tickets are $20 for the early show ($15 for veterans and students); $10 for the late show. A buffet dinner, including vegetarian options, is $25. Click here for tickets.
Ifeseyi Gayle spotted this handsome bird enjoying itself in Deadman Brook, near the Westport Library. He (or she) was happy to pose for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … Tom Shipley, half of the Brewer & Shipley duo whose song about weed became a generational anthem in the 1970s, died recently in Missouri. He was 84.
Click below for 2 great songs. One is their best known. The other is less noted, but brilliant and beautiful.
(From the Playhouse to the VFW — and from young kids to Lawrence Welk — “06880”‘ is your 24/7/365 source of information, news, and random stuff. Please click here to support us. Thanks!)
The former Davis Cup tennis player/Cameroon national champion/beloved local tennis coach has changed many lives in Africa.
The Oyebog Tennis Academy in Cameroon has provided free tennis coaching, food, shelter and education to tens of thousands of underprivileged children.
To his students, Joseph is more than a coach. He is a father figure, mentor, and beacon of hope.
Westporters have supported OTA generously. Now Joseph needs our help.
He was diagnosed with pancreatitis, which led to severe liver damage and many other life-threatening complications.
His condition is rapidly deteriorating, and the local hospital in Cameroon cannot handle his complex case.
Doctors strongly recommend that he be medically evacuated to a major healthcare facility in the US, where his wife and children now live.
Joseph’s many friends are raising funds to cover the costs of his medical evacuation, treatment, postoperative care and rehabilitation, so he can continue his mission at the Oyebog Tennis Academy.
Speaking of fundraisers: They may be teenagers, but Staples High School senior Jack Schwartz — co-president of the Yale Junior Board — and clssmates Jackson Tracey, Ryan Sunjka and Lucy Barneu are organizing the 3rd annual “Heartbeat for Hope” fundraiser.
Money raised for Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital wil support sick kids and under-resourced families, as they struggle through difficult medical complications.
It’s a rowing and running competition. Everyone receives a t-shirt.
Last year’s running and rowing competition …
The dates are May 31 and June 1 (12:30 p.m.) in Westport; May 31 (10:45 a.m.) in New Haven, at Orange Theory.
There is no entry fee. Team members reach out to friends and family. and encourage donations.
The Artists Collective of Westport hosts 2 intriguing shows at the Westport Library.
“Interiors: A Look Inside” explores physical, metaphysical and emotional spaces through the visual arts.
Contributors include Bonnie Edelman, Lynn Carlson, Peggy Dembicer, Ros Shaffer, Norm Siegel, Suzanne Benton, Julie Leff, Trace Burroughs, Diane Pollack, Miggs Burroughs, Kat Evans, Niki Ketchman and more.
“Piece by Piece” is a 6-foot by 8-foot installation composed of the work of 48 Artists Collective members.
Each received a 12-inch by 12-inch blank panel, and a 12-inch square section randomly selected from a well-known modern painting. The artists created individual pieces, replicating a part of the larger painting in their own style, without knowing what the final painting will look like until it is revealed at the opening reception (June 6, 6 p.m.).
Each 12-inch by 12-inch “piece” of “Piece by Piece” is available for purchase, starting at the reception. Each square is $100, with 50% of the proceeds supporting the Library’s art programs and 50% going to the artist.
The additional artworks on display in the Sheffer and South Galleries are also available for purchase, with a percentage of the proceeds also going the Library’s art programming.
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The long-delayed Lincoln Street apartment project is making headway.
The first construction — elevator shafts — are done. Floors and walls are being added now. Here’s a recent view:
(Photo/Bill Christiaanse)
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Sunday’s rainbow over Owenoke — as seen from the Longshore golf course — stars as today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured image.
And finally … on this date in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge opened to pedestrian traffic. The link between San Francisco and Marin County changed both places forever.
Americans discard 20 million mattresses and box springs annually. That’s 55,000 that land in incinerators and landfills each day.
But up to 90% of old mattresses can be recycled into carpet pads, exercise equipment cushions, bike seats, insulation, air filters and steel materials.
Sustainable Westport can help. They’ll host a free mattress/ box spring recycling event on Saturday, April 26 (8:30 to 11:30 a.m., Earthplace).
Dry and unsoiled mattresses and box springs are welcome. Please do not bring those that are damaged, wet, or contaminated (bed bugs, etc.).
If you can’t bring your mattress or box spring, Westport Boy Scout Troop 36 will provide a pickup service for a small donation. Click here to sign up.
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Supper & Soul — the great Westport Chamber of Commerce meal-and-music event — returns Saturday, May 3.
Green River — the Creedence Clearwater Revival/John Fogerty tribute show — takes center stage at the Westport Library at 8 p.m.
Dinner starts at 6 p.m. An $85 Supper & Soul ticket includes a 3-course dinner at one of 11 downtown restaurants, plus the concert.
After the concert, show your ticket at any participating restaurant, for happy hour pricing on drinks.
Concert-only tickets are $30. Click here to purchase.
Participating restaurants include Arezzo, Basso, Capuli, Casa Me, Don Memo, Emmy Squared, Il Pastaficio, Nômade, Spotted Horse, Gogi, and Walrus Alley.
But it’s not far away — 3 East Avenue in Norwalk, just down the hill from Stew Leonard’s, and to the right at the light.
Plus, it’s the artistry of Jalna Jaeger, a 1971 Staples High School graduate.
“Everyone is invited to stop by!” she says.
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Alvin Ailey is coming to the Westport Country Playhouose.
“Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance” takes the stage on May 1 (7 p.m.)
The program features the premiere of “Down the Rabbit Hole,” inspired by the “Matrix” film series exploring the relationship between humans and technology; Alvin Ailey’s Streams, an abstract exploration of bodies in space, and Baye & Asa’s “John 4:20,” an “explosive adrenaline rush.”
Tickets are $75, $80. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
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Westport Transit Director Peter Gold writes: “Westport is in danger of losing the Wheels2U shuttle yet again.
“The Board of Finance once again voted at its March meeting to eliminate all funding for Wheels2U, the WTD’s door-to-train station on-demand commuter shuttle. This will effectively shut down the service as of June 30. (The door-to- door service for the elderly and persons with disabilities will not be affected.)
“The Finance and Transit Committees of the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) meet on April 21 and April 22, respectively, to make recommendations to the full RTM regarding the budget for Wheels2U.
“The full RTM meets May 2 to vote on restoring funding to keep the shuttle running for another year.
“Please send an email to the RTM (RTM-DL@Westportct.gov) urging the RTM to restore the budget and keep the shuttle alive.
“Wheels2U provided over 20,362 rides to and from Westport’s 2 train stations to more than 1,230 people since the start of the current fiscal year on July 1, 2024, with 2,590 rides to and from Westport’s train stations in March alone.
“Wheels2U supports Westport residents and businesses and aids economic development by providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way for Westport commuters, reverse commuters and others to link their homes, their employers, and downtown to the train stations.
“It takes a vote of 70% of RTM members present and voting at a meeting to override the Board of Finance and restore the funding for Wheels2U. Every bit of support matters.”
Rhododendrons — their beauty, history and landscape use at Blau House & Gardens — are on display at a special May 18 event (9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., beginning at Wakeman Town Farm).
The day includes a box lunch, and guided tour of Blau House, Westport’s hidden gem off Bayberry Lane. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Rhododedrons at Blau House & Gardens.
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Eight members of the Artists Collective of Westport will be part of ARTWorks Gallery’s “Been There” show. It opens April 26 (5 to 7 p.m., 60 East Avenue, Norwalk).
The final day — May 18 — includes a 4 p.m. artists’ walk and talk, at the closing reception.
“Tuesday” — mixed media (Barbara Ringer)
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1975 Staples High School graduate Naomi Schalit and her husband John Christe — co-founders of the Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting — were inducted into the New England Newspaper Hall of Fame last month.
They were honored at the Portland event for their commitment to investigative journalism and public service.
Maine Governor Janet Mills attended the event, to show her support for Schalit and Christie. Speaking of the 1st Amendment, she said, “When it goes, we won’t even know that it’s gone because you won’t be there to report it.” (Hat tip: Douglass Davidoff)
And finally … on this date in 1943, Albert Hofmann accidentally discovered the hallucinogenic effects of the research drug LSD. He took the drug intentionally 3 days later.
(“06880” does not endorse hallucinogenic drugs. We do, however, fully support you clicking here, to help support your hyper-local blog. Thank you for joining us on this trip.)
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