Tag Archives: Aspetuck Land Trust

Roundup: VersoFest, “Almost, Maine,” Apartments …

Posted on March 29, 2026 | 4 comments

Congolese drums had never been heard in the Westport Library before yesterday — or perhaps in any other library, anywhere.

But there they were at 10 a.m., kicking off a jam-packed VersoFest Saturday with a dance and drum workshop.

Cumbe Dance, at the Westport Library. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

Also yesterday: actress Gina Gershon discussed her new memoir, “AlphaPussy: How I Survived the Valley and Learned to Love My Boobs,” with journalist/rock memoirist (and Westport resident) Alisyn Camerota.

Gina Gerson, with Alisyn Camerota. (Photo/Susan Garment)

Last night ended with musician/writer/playwright/poet/visual artist/alt-rock legend David J (Bauhaus, Love and Rockets).

He read from his new poetry book “Rhapsody, Threnody & Prayer,” was interviewed by author Douglas Rushkoff, and finished with a set of acoustic songs.

David J (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

The 5th annual music, media and more event concludes today (Sunday), with a panel on AI and the music industry (10:30 a.m.), a conversation with Capitol Theater owner and festival producer Dean Budnick (12 p.m.), a Suno workshop (12 p.m.), and a screening of “Grateful Dead: Dead Ahead” (2 p.m.).

Click here for details and registration. 

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Speaking of the Library: It’s a storied Westport institution.

So is Staples Players.

On Monday, April 6 (6:30 p.m.) they’ll collaborate for the first time ever, on a staged (and free!) reading.

David Roth’s Theatre 3 Advanced class presents “Almost, Maine.” The whimsical, funny and poignant show takes place as northern lights hover about a remote town. Residents fall in and out of love, in unexpected and hilarious ways.

And — because neither Players nor the Library ever does things halfway — playwright John Cariani will come to the reading, and lead a talkback afterward.

Click here for more details.

The cast of “Almost, Maine.”

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As promised, the new apartments being built at 85 Post Road West — between Kings Highway Elementary School and Riverside Avenue — include “affordable housing” based on state guidelines.

Applications are being accepted for the 22 1- and 2-bedroom units. The maximum rental prices are $2,100 and $2,511  respectively.

Applicants will be contacted first come, first served, and given the opportunity to submit supporting documentation and go through the verification process.

Click here for the submission form. Questions? Call 475-999-2445.

Early stages of construction last year, on Post Road West. 

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Speaking of new construction: As Coastal Luxury Homes prepares to convert 455 Post Road East — the former Connecticut Humane Society — to 25 apartments and 5 townhouses, they’re paying homage to the former tenants.

Coastal has donated all the cages and crates inside the building to TAILS (The Alliance in Limiting Strays).

The other day, 20 volunteers used a big truck and 2 smaller vans to give them — just like the animals they serve — a new home.

Cages get a new home, thanks to Coastal Luxury Homes and TAILS.

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Cold weather did not deter Trout Unlimited members from getting outside — though not on the Saugatuck River.

The other day Andy McNab and Pippa Bell Ader collected most of the garbage strewn about Ford Road, and the parking lot across the Bridgewater bridge.

Pippa adds this gentle, but important, reminder: “Westporters have the opportunity to help clean up the town, on and around Earth Day (April 22).”

Andy McNab smiles as he cleans up other people’s trash near the Saugatuck River, at the Glendinning property. (Photo/David Ader)

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Big Y hosted Staples’ Service League of Boys (SLOBs) yesterday.

Club members and Homes with Hope personnel collected donations for the Gillespie Center food pantry.

Donations are always welcome. Click here to build on SLOBS’ great foundation.

Staples SLOBs (right) with Homes with Hope personnel, at Big Y.

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Mardi Gras is over.

But our Minute Man is still celebrating. Check out the beads around his neck.

Party on, big guy!

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Aspetuck Land Trust‘s spring native plant sale begins next month. Ordering for non-members begins April 11.

Click here to preview the offerings.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo comes from Michael Szeto.

After installing a birdfeeder this past week, his first visitor was a Cooper’s hawk. It frequently visits back yards, to prey on small birds drawn to feeders.

(Photo/Michael Szeto)

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And finally … on this date in 1871, Royal Albert Hall was opened by Queen Victoria.

Which brings to mind 2 songs by British bands, each of which mentions one of them.

(A day in our life includes a reminder that “06880” relies on the generosity of our readers. If you appreciate these daily Roundups — or anything else — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Environment, Real estate, Staples HS

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Roundup: Beach Concession, High Honors, Bloodroot, Sneakers …

Posted on March 26, 2026 | 6 comments

And the new concessionaire at Compo Beach and Longshore will be …

… either NG Entertainment/Nikki Glekas Collective of Westport, or Braxtons Hospitality Group of Bridgeport.

They were the 2 businesses who followed through with a bid, to the Parks & Recreation Department. One will be chosen to succeed Hook’d on the Sound, the beleaguered operator since 2020.

Parks & Rec director Erik Barbieri is forming an evaluation panel, to do interviews next week.

The hope is to have a concessionaire operating this summer. If that’s not possible, food trucks will be used.

Beachgoers look forward to the return of a concessionaire with the community spirit of Joey’s by the Shore. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Congratulations to 19 Staples High School “high honors” students.

They’ll graduate in June with a special seal, with grade point averages in the top 4 percent of the Class of 2026.

Principal Stafford Thomas notes, “the most astonishing aspect of this accomplishment is that these students were involved in a number of extracurriculars and various aspects of school life. These activities took a great deal of time, focus and concentration outside of the classroom as well.

“We were lucky to have had them for four years, and we will no doubt be hearing about their next great achievements in the years to come.”

The high honors students are listed in the photo below:

Front row (from left): Isabel Jo, Taylor Serotta, Olivia Cohn, Emma Asiel, Jake Shufro, Ava Carter, Carly Mulhern, Olivia Morgeson, Uma Choudhury. Rear: Matthew Tybur, Gunnar Eklund, Nolan Francis, Rajan Sekhar, Kevin Cano, Jay Hari, Miles Kahn, Rei Seltzer, Anderson Seo, Andersen Yee.

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More Staples kudos: Orphenians — for 70 years the school’s premier elite vocal ensemble – have racked up another honor.

Tomorrow they’ll be a showcase choir at the Connecticut Music Educators Association All-State Festival, at the Convention Center in Hartford. They’ll perform 6 numbers, for music teachers from all over the state.

Director Lauren Pine hailed her nearly 50 singers’ talent, passion and dedication. After missing a number of rehearsals due to weather this winter, they came in before school and on weekends to prepare for the All-State Festival.

But that’s not the only Orphenians news. Next year they’ll head to Austria, to sing and work with famed composer/conductor Jake Runestad.

Over the years they’ve performed at venues like La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and Radio City Music Hall.

Staples Orphenians

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Jeanne Reed read about this weekend’s upcoming tag sale at Bloodroot with interest.

Then, she was intrigued to learn that the iconic vegan/feminist Black Rock restaurant — co-founded 49 years ago by Westporter Selma Miriam — may have a second life, after its closure in December.

The Connecticut Post reports that the Aspetuck Land Trust may acquire the 1.7-acre site. It would become a nature preserve, and possible community garden.

“We’d love to preserve the land and name the property after the restaurant and just honor all the work and effort and integrity of what they put in there all those years,” said David Brant, Aspetuck’s executive director. “They were ahead of their time.”

Click here for the full Connecticut Post story.

Selma Miriam, at Bloodroot. She died last year.

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VersoFest ’26 kicked off last night, with a reception and artist talk on … sneakers.

Sean “Opus 1” Williams is presenting “The SneakerVangelisT,” an exhibit named after his sneaker world name.

Sneakers are wearable art that serve both self expression and function. Some models offer a canvas for artistic expression. Others make a muse. The exhibit provides examples of both.

Williams discussed all that and more, in a conversation with Westport artist Miggs Burroughs, and fellow VersoFest artist Holly Danger.

Four days of VersoFest music, media and creativity kicks off tonight, with a talk featuring Ani DiFranco. Click here for a schedule and full details of VersoFest ’26. 

Sean “Opus 1” Williams (center), with Holly Danger and Miggs Burroughs. (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Three early-season shows have been added to the Levitt Pavilion calendar.

The Disco Biscuits — the Philadelphia-based “trans-fusion” band that bridges the gap between EDM and jam rock — play 2 dates: Friday and Saturday, June 12 and 13. They drew a great crowd last year, during their 30th anniversary tour.

Dark Star Orchestra also returns. They’ll bring the Grateful Dead’s music to life the next week (June 21).

Tickets for both groups go on sale tomorrow (Friday) at 10 a.m. Click here to purchase, and for more information. 

Dark Star Orchestra 

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Speaking of the Levitt: The sun created a very cool halo over Westport yesterday morning.

Franco Fellah captured this image:

(Photo/Franco Fellah)

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Speaking of entertainment: “Primary Trust” opens at the Westport Country Playhouse on April 14.

As part of the run-up, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Eboni Booth recorded a short video about her touching, humorous and inventive show exploring the power of connections.

Playhouse artistic director Mark Shanahan says: “As one of the most celebrated new works in modern American theatre, ‘Primary Trust’ has resonated with audiences across the country.

“There’s a good reason this work has been so widely embraced. It’s a play about kindness and healing — exactly the kind of story we need to hear right now.”

Click here for more information, and tickets. 

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The Westport Rotary Club got an update Tuesday on the Westport Museum for History & Culture.

Michele Rubin — director of education, programs and development at the former Westport Historical Society (and a 1981 Staples High School graduate) — described the Museum’s mission: to bring Westport’s full history to the widest audience possible.  

As the nation celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, an exhibit opening April 25 will look back at events surrounding the Revolutionary War.

Michele Rubin, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)

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Dozens of Westporters started last weekend with plenty of pancakes.

They packed VFW Post 399, for a breakfast hosted by Westport Troop 139, and other Connecticut troops.

It was a fundraiser for the Scouts’ trip to a jamboree in Scotland this summer.

They thank the Staples Gridiron Club, Adam Vengrow and the VFW Women’s Auxiliary for “overwhelming support.”

And of course, all the residents who arrived famished, and left well fed.

Dig in!

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The Sea Street Quartet makes their world debut on Sunday — in Westport.

The string foursome present an afternoon of music by Franz Schubert and Joe Hisaiahi at the United Methodist Church on Weston Road (3 p.m.).

Admission is $10, at the door.

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Judith Katz’s caption for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — “And just like that!” — says it all.

(Photo/Judith Katz)

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And finally … Westport Rotary Club members are a smart bunch.

But they probably learned a thing or two Tuesday, about the Westport Museum for History & Culture. And about history itself.

(You don’t need to know much about history to know that “06880” is “where Westport meets the world” — and that we rely on support from readers. Please click here to donate. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Library, Longshore, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: C-c-c-cold Birds, Crossword Puzzle Contest, Cortina Olympics

Posted on February 8, 2026 | 2 comments

It’s time for the “F” word.

Yep, this weather is freezing.

And it’s gone on for a loooong time.

Lou Weinberg sends along this great photo …

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

… and reminds us: “Birds, like all living things, need water. In these frigid temperatures, drinkable water is hard to come by.

“Agriculture-grade rubber pans do the job. They’re easy to find online.”

Tracy Porosoff spotted bird tracks in the snow, and adds: “Please remind people to sprinkle some bird seed, or fill their bird feeders.”

Today’s forecast is for a high of 16, though slightly less windy than yesterday. The low tonight will be 7 — still quite cold, but better than last night.

A bit of relief is in sight. Temperatures will climb to the 30s tomorrow and Tuesday. On Wednesday we’ll be roasting, at 42 degrees.

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Speaking of the bone-chilling cold: It could have derailed Homes with Hope‘s annual “Soup-er Bowl” food drive.

The event — held every year the day before the Big Game — is sponsored by the Westport Police Department, and the Westport Rotary and Sunrise Rotary clubs. It’s an important event, timed during a traditionally down time for donations, to replenish the non-profit’s food pantry.

It would have been tough to have volunteers stand outside in single-digit temperatures. And to ask donors to linger outdoors too.

Stop & Shop’s manager quickly stepped up. He moved the group indoors, providing space in prime territory near the entrance.

Inside Stop & Shop …

We don’t know who will be tonight’s Super Bowl MVP.

But for yesterday’s Soup-er Bowl food drive, it’s Stop & Shop. And the winning team is the 2 Rotary Clubs, Police Department, and all who contributed goods and funds to Homes with Hope.

… and at the Homes with Hope food pantry.

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One more weather report: At 9 p.m. last night, Eversource reported 52 Westport customers without power.

There were another 182 in Weston.

The majority in both towns were in the Coleytown area, where wires came down (see photo below).

The good news: At 7 a.m. today, there were no outages reported in either town.

Well done, Eversource!

Wires were down yesterday on Easton Road, between Coleytown and  Berkeley Roads. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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Yesterday’s 27th annual Westport Library Crossword Puzzle Contest sold out almost instantly.

Despite bitter cold — or maybe because of cabin fever — 200 cruciverbalists filled the Trefz Forum yesterday.

They spent the afternoon solving 3 New York Times puzzles, and competing in a word game hosted by the Times’ longtime and revered puzzle editor, Will Shortz.

The finals pitted 3 Westport contest veterans. In an unusual twist, the winner took the longest to complete a very difficult “Thursday” crossword.

Jan O’Sullivan zipped through it in a still-gob-smacking 9 minutes — 3 minutes slower than Claire Rimkus and Glen Ryan.

23 seconds into the final round. From left: Jen O’Sullivan, Claire Rimkus and Glen Ryan. Times puzzle editor Will Shortz is far right.

But those 2 spelled “Sacagawea” with a “j,” not a “g.” That’s acceptable — but not in a puzzle with a crossing word (“girth,” not “jirth”).

Slow — relatively — and steady won that race.

Kenneth Mukamal, with a certificate as one of 2 dozen competitors to complete all 3 puzzles correctly. He did not qualify for the final round — but, playing at his table, correctly finished that puzzle more quickly than the winner. (Photos/Dan Woog)

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Mac is back!

Freestyle skier Mac Forehand grew up in Southport. His father — Ray Forehand — was on the Staples soccer team in 1976. His uncle Jack Forehand was a football star there, more than a decade earlier.

Mac was on the 2022 US Olympic ski team. He’s on it again in Cortina, competing in both freeski slopestyle and big

He’s already advanced to the next freeski slopestyle round, finishing 6th. You can watch him on Peacock (all times Eastern):

  • Freeski slopestyle final: Tuesday, February 10, 6:30-8:20 a.m.
  • Freeski big air qualification: Sunday, February 15, 1:30-3:45 p.m.
  • Freeski big air final: Tuesday, Feb. 17, 1:30-3:05 p.m.

The Fairfield resident — who attended the Stratton Mountain Ski School — has won 3 X Games medals, and a silver at the 2025 World Championships.

He made history in 2019, winning the overall World Cup title in slopestyle at just 17 years old. It was his first full season on the World Cup circuit.

Alert “06880” reader David Squires reports that his parents were shown on NBC’s coverage of the slopestyle qualification on Thursday.

For more information on Mac Forehand, click here.

BONUS RUN: For a 2016 lifestyle publication story on the Forehands’ life in Vermont, click here. (Hat tip: Dan Donovan)

Mac Forehand

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Attention, college students interested in hands-on experience in land conservation: Aspetuck Land Trust is accepting applications for a pair of paid summer internships.

Interns work flexible schedules for 8 to 10 weeks, supporting trail and habitat maintenance, invasive species removal, community outreach, and conservation education projects across their preserves and in Bridgeport. Click here for more information, and application details.

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Valentine’s Day is 6 days away.

But it came early for Lauri Weiser.

She spotted this heart outside her front door, at the Lansdowne condominiums.

It’s a natural for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo feature.

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … speaking of that heart above, what better song than:

(A heart of stone … or gold? You decide! Please click here, to support the 24/7/365 work of “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Library, Police, Sports, Weather

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Eno Marsh Preserve: Overlooked Green Space, With Historic Past

Posted on December 28, 2025 | 10 comments

Scott Smith has introduced “06880” readers to some of Westport’s most hidden treasures (including, most notably, Haskins Preserve).

Today, he shines a light on another. Scott writes:

There’s an under-the-radar patch of open space in Westport that I suspect few people know about: the Eno Marsh Preserve.

Tucked into the southwest corner of town, it’s a mix of wetlands and woods shoe-horned in behind some homes and condos, the railroad tracks. and more swampland that extends to the Norwalk border.

A short walking trail that winds through the parcel is accessible from the far end of daily-fee parking lot #4, off Saugatuck Avenue, with another entrance at the end of a private road next to the handsome brick building farther down Route 136 that originally housed the offices of William Phelps Eno.

Managed by the Aspetuck Land Trust, the pocket preserve is named for the local man considered the “father of traffic safety.” A New York trust fund baby of the gilded age, Eno devoted his life to bringing order to the newfangled world of automotive transport in the early part of the 20th century.

He’s credited with the invention of the stop sign, pedestrian crosswalk and traffic circle, among other innovations. The transportation institute he founded survives to this day, in Washington. (Click here for his fascinating Wikipedia entry.)

The former Eno Foundation building, on Saugatuck Avenue.

Here in Westport Eno owned a 32-room mansion on the Saugatuck River, across from his offices; I suppose part of his original estate extended to the wetlands out back.  Though the office building survives, the circa-1877, 15,000-square foot mansion known as Judah Rock was demolished in 1997, after a failed preservation effort.

The Preserve’s location is obscure, and some wouldn’t consider it even all that scenic. In fact, its most noticeable view may well be of the big new apartment complex rising across the train tracks on Hiawatha Lane.

View from Eno Marsh Preserve, of the Hiawatha Lane apartments.

But what the short, brambly trail does have are several of the tallest trees in town — including 3 or more magnificent tulip poplars that soar on thick trunks to spread their branches into the sky. You can see these trees on a Google satellite map view of the preserve.

Eno Marsh Preserve tulip poplars. 

The site clearly doesn’t get as much love — or foot traffic — as some of the other Aspetuck Land Trust properties in town, among them the lovely Caryl & Edna Haskins Preserve, the expansive Newman-Poses Preserve, and the Leonard Schine Preserve, with its marked trails and children’s playscape.

Perhaps that’s as it should be; not all open spaces need to be popular. I’m sure the wood ducks and deer in this empty quarter of Westport cherish their privacy.

But I treasure its existence, and trust the preserve can be maintained as a public resource — not just for its natural beauty, but also as a reminder of a time when the privileged among us left real-life legacies to enjoy, and to remember them for long after they are gone.

Eno Marsh Preserve. (All photos/Scott Smith)

(“06880” covers the waterfront — and every other part of town too. If you enjoy stories like these, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, History, Transportation

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Roundup: Toy Drive, Land Trust, Longshore …

Posted on December 8, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Toy Drive, Land Trust, Longshore …

The biggest toy drive in town is underway.

The Westport Police Department, Police Athletic League and Westport Police Benevolent Association are once again collecting new, unopened and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders — along with cash donations — in the ASF Sports parking lot.

It began this weekend. The next dates are Saturday and Sunday (December 13-14, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

There are also collection boxes at ASF, Westport Police headquarters on Jesup Road, Awesome Toys and Gifts, and the Toy Post.

The police, PAL — and hundreds of youngsters — thank you!

Westport Police, PAL — and Yogi Bear — collected toys for underprivileged youngsters last year, at ASF. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

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The Aspetuck Land Trust has preserved another link in their 750-acre Weston Wilton Forest Reserve assemblage project.

A 16-acre property acquired from the estate of Christopher Plummer — including a significant donation of land by his widow Elaine — will now be open space, benefiting wildlife and the public forever.

For more information on the Aspetuck Land Trust — which includes 8 preserves in Westport, and 21 in Weston — click here.

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The Longshore golf course closed for the season yesterday.

If you haven’t been golfing — or at Longshore for any other reason — lately, you may not realize that the Inn renovation project is underway.

Among other things, the white cladding is gone. Here’s a shot from this weekend:

(Hat tip and photo/Scott Smith)

Work should be completed in time for next summer.

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David Pogue no longer lives in Westport.

But he still has plenty of friends here. That’s a good enough reason to link to his annual “CBS Sunday Morning” Techno Claus gig.

Taped for years at his Woody Lane home — and now in his new Bedford, New York digs — it’s a very clever look at some very cool tech-type holiday gifts.

Ho ho ho!

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On Friday, the Staples High School Orphenians wowed a Radio City Music Hall crowd.

But they’re not the only Westporters with a connection to the famed venue.

yesterday, the Camp Broadway Ensemble a cappella group — 50 singers ages 10-17, from 18 states, Canada and England — performed.

Their “Let’s Hear it for the Holidays!” medley was written by former resident Doug McCormick. It’s available on all music streaming platforms. (Hat tip: Barry Kresch)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is an especially “reflective” one, from Ford Road.

(Photo/Pat Saunders)

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And finally … today is the birthdate of Jerry Butler. The National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Famer was born in 1939. He died earlier this year.

(Another week — and another start to our daily Roundups. If you enjoy this — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Roundup: Toy Drive, Land Trust, Longshore …

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Roundup: Kittens, Constitution, Rowing Club …

Posted on November 9, 2025 | 7 comments

Earlier this year, an abandoned tiger-striped cat set up residence in a Westport resident’s garage.

Town animal control officer Peter Reid reached out to long-time Westport Animal Shelter Advocates volunteer Sandy Young to assist with trapping.

WASA is the volunteer group for Westport Animal Control. The cat was trapped, and set up in Young’s home as a foster.

While recuperating, it gave birth to 5 kittens.  She’s been a loving and protective mother, but now it is time for the 2-month-old young ones to find homes.

It is hard to get good images of kittens for social media. But Staples High School Photography Club student Andrea Jaramillo and advisor Stacey Phelan organized a photo shoot.

Reid and WASA president Julie Loparo got the okay to use the Westport Police Department classroom. Club members Hazel Rossi, Elizabeth Stauder and Beatrice Schwabe joined Jaramillo and Phelan, to calm the babies and capture their best sides.

Interested in adopting them? (The kittens, not the girls.) Call 203-557-0361, or email wasa1@optonline.net. To support their care with a donation, click here.

During the photo shoot, and …

… one of the 5 kittens.

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Next month’s Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand show is very timely.

“What the Constitution Means to Me” takes center stage December 1 (7 p.m.).

At age 15, playwright Heidi Schreck earned her college tuition by competing in Constitutional debate competitions across the country. In this play that is “hilarious, hopeful, and achingly human,” she revisits her teenage self to explore how the document has shaped her family, her future — and our nation.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Black Friday shopping events — once confined to the day after Thanksgiving — has morphed into multi-day affairs (on both sides of the holiday).

Now, Sorelle Gallery takes things even further.

The Church Lane shop offers hundreds of original work, by local and national artists, at reduced prices.

The “Black Friday” sale has started already.

And it’s on through December 2.

Even better: A proportion of the proceeds will be donated to Sustainable CT.

Click here for details, and to view art on sale.

Ned Martin’s “Common Core” has been reduced from $13,100 to $5,000.

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Speaking of the holidays: The biggest toy drive in town returns next month.

The Westport Police Department, Police Athletic League and Westport Police Benevolent Association will once again collect new, unopened and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders — along with cash donations — in the ASF Sports parking lot.

The dates are Saturdays and Sundays, December 6-7 and 13-14, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

From December 1 on, there will be collection boxes at ASF, Westport Police headquarters on Jesup Road, Awesome Toys and Gifts, and the Toy Post.

Mark the dates. And start shopping!

Westport Police, PAL — and Yogi Bear — collected toys for underprivileged youngsters last year, at ASF. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

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The Saugatuck Rowing Club celebrated the 25th anniversary of its boathouse yesterday.

Owner Howard Winklevoss; his sons Cameron and Tyler, who began their Harvard and Olympic careers there, and founder James Mangan were among the many current and former rowers and coaches who joined in the festivities.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker offered her congratulations too, for SRC’s success in putting Westport on the “national and international” rowing map.

From left: Howard Winklevoss, Tyler Winklevoss, James Mangan, Cameron Winklevoss. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Also last night: Over 400 people packed the Westport Library to celebrate 60 years of the Grateful Dead. The Spadtastics — a Darien tribute band who themselves have been playing together for 40 years — starred in the Trefz Forum.

The modified Supper & Soul concert-only show was sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and the Library. Three restaurants offered Dead- inspired drinks, with Basso creating the “Grapefruit Dead” gin-based concoction.

The Spadtastics, on stage. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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The Westport Project — the new fully sustainable home going up at 16 Westport Avenue — has just added a 9th episode to its video documentary series.

The shows — starring builder Chris O’Dell of the O’Dell Group design/build firm, and designer/actor Eva Amurri — have racked up hundreds of thousands of views.

The latest episode — featuring the appliances planned for the new home — should be of interest to all Aitoro fans. Who doesn’t love the Norwalk appliance store, known for its huge selections, customer service, and community service?

Click here or below to see.

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Speaking of the environment: Aspetuck Land Trust’s “Lunch & Learn” webinars are always intriguing. And educational.

The next one is “Mini-Forest Revolution: Rewilding our Communities for Climate Resilience” (November 20, 12 noon).

Mini-forests support hundreds of species, are many degrees cooler than its surroundings, soak up stormwater, take up spaces no bigger than a tennis court, and become maintenance free within a few years.

Featured speaker Hannah Lewis has planted 7 mini-forests in Bridgeport. She’ll soon add the biggest one in New England. Click here to register, and for more information.


A typical mini-forest.

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A new artist has been added to George Barrett and Brian Keane‘s show at the Westport Library next Sunday (November 16, 2 p.m.).

Sarah Gross is a Nashville-based singer/songwriter. She has performed with Zach Bryan, and won Jimmy Fallon’s “Battle of the Instant Songwriters.”

Barrett — the 1973 Staples High School graduate (and former Orphenian) who grew up here in a home filled with classical, folk, rock, blues and jazz; whose influences include Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, the Beatles, James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt, Sting and Norah Jones, and whose new album, “Rearrange Things,” is released this month — will be joined by Grammy-winning musician/composer/producer (and Staples ’71 grad) Brian Keane, plus other guests.

Before the show, Barrett and Keane will chat about their unique life journeys and unexpected reunion. The conversation will be hosted by “06880”‘s Dan Woog, who has known both for over 50 years.

It’s a fundraiser for the Library. Tickets are $20. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Congratulations to Lina Elwood. The Westport resident and Hopkins School sophomore is a winner in the Music Teachers National Association Piano Competition. She’ll move on to compete in the next round: the Eastern Division. Those winners move on to the national finals.

Lina has won top prizes at numerous state, regional and international competitions. She has also played with the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra and Norwalk Symphony Orchestra.

Lina Elwood

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Long-time Westport resident Edith Zwick Evans (formerly Edith Shufro) died on March 22 in Hamden. She was 99.

Edie was born into a Jewish family in Vienna in 1925. Her family fractured when the Nazis annexed Austria in 1938. Her mother and a sister died in Treblinka.

A year after the arrival of the Nazis, Edie escaped Austria on a Kindertransport train to the Netherlands. She was taken to England and lived there until 1943, when she sailed to the US in the midst of the war.

Edie earned a bachelor’s degree at Antioch College, and a master’s in social work at Columbia University. A friend from Antioch introduced her to Arnold Shufro, a textile salesman in New York City.

They married and moved from Manhattan to Westport after their first 2 children were born. They raised three children on Crestwood Road.

Edie regularly attended French club luncheons with Westport friends and studied sculpture at the Silvermine Arts Center in New Canaan with Stanley Bleifeld, of the National Academy of Design. I

n the mid-1970s Edie returned to part-time social worker at High Meadows School in Hamden.

Eventually she and Arnold divorced, and Edie married Robert Evans. The couple became innkeepers at the Sedgwick Inn and restaurant in Berlin, New York.

After Bob died, Edie lived in Williamstown, Massachusetts, then spent her final decade at the Whitney Center in Hamden.

Edie is survived by her daughters Cathy and Carol Shufro. Her son Mark died of a chronic illness in 2022. Her grandchild Sarah Shufro Mandelkern died as a child. Edie’s survivors include daughter-in-law Lisa Kerpen Shufro, 6 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

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Most of our “Westport … Naturally” feature photos of deer show them in profile. The creatures seldom engage with humans.

But today’s image — by Dana Kuyper, from Over Rock Lane, off Compo Road South — shows this one staring straight at the camera.

They’re so handsome. Until they start devouring our plants.

(Photo/Dana Kuyper)

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And finally … today is the birthday of Mary Travers, of Peter, Paul and Mary fame. The beautiful woman with the beautiful voice — who was born in 1936, and died in 2009 at 72, from leukemia — had many Westport connections.

(“06880” is where Westport meets the world. Mary Travers was part of our Westport world too. If you enjoy connections like these — or just our daily songs — please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Roundup: EMS Honors, Breast Cancer Walk, Candid Conversations …

Posted on September 29, 2025 | 1 comment

Congratulations, Jay Paretzky!

The Westport Emergency Medical Service crew chief received the Distinguished Achievement Award on Thursday, at the EMSPro International EMS Conference at Mohegan Sun.

He was chosen by the Connecticut EMS Council and state Office of Emergency Medical Services.

Jay began his service as a volunteer EMT in 1980, a few months after Westport’s EMS was founded. Over the past 45 years he has served as an EMT and crew chief, volunteering more than 30,000 hours.

He has saved countless lives, while also contributing as a board member, CPR program coordinator, an officer and president of Westport EMS, and a member of the Connecticut EMS Advisory Board.

Jay Paretzky

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Breast cancer survivors and — caregivers, family members and friends — will gather on Sunday, October 19 (9 a.m., Sherwood Island State Park), for the American Cancer Society’s 31st annual “Making Strikes Against Breast Cancer” kickoff.

The fundraising goal is $360,000. Click here to register, and for more information.

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Chabad of Westport presents a pair of “Candid Conversations.”

Eylon Levy — former official spokesman for the State of Israel — kicks off the series on October 22.

Former hostages Maya and Itay Regev, with their father Ilan, discuss “Siblings in Captivity” on November 19.

Both programs begin at 7:30 p.m., preceded by VIP receptions at 6:45. Click here for more information, and to RSVP.

Maya and Itay Regev

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In advance of Yom Kippur, The Blondinit is preparing a catering menu of Israeli-inspired cooking. It includes “start the fast” and “break the fast” options, with full meals as well as a la carte items.

To order, call 203-557-3277, or email catering@theblondinit.com. All catering orders are pick-up only. The deadline is Wednesday morning.

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Over the years, Mihali has become a Levitt Pavilion favorite.

Last night, the Twiddle co-founder returned to Westport with his “reggae, roots rock and riverside vibes,” and a full band.

He was joined by progressive funk powerhouse Night Zero. The show began with local high octane jam rock band Residual Groove.

Mihali, at the Levitt Pavilion. (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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Aspetuck Land Trust’s 2025 Haskins Lecture features Tom Butler, author of “Wildlands Philanthropy: The Great American Tradition” (October 30, 7 p.m., Westport Library).

Butler will share little-known stories of the men and women who went above and beyond to conserve the landscapes they loved – across the continent and around the world. They’re a reminder of the power of individuals to protect wild places everywhere.  

The event is free, and the public is invited.

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Did you notice our new “06880” header?

The Church Lane scene was photographed by Mark Taglia. If you’re on a laptop or desktop, at it’s the top of this blog.

If you’re on a smartphone, click here to see.

Or just look below:

(Photo/Mark Taglia)

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It’s almost October.

Which means, it’s already pumpkin season.

Which you know, if you’re been to Starbucks, Big Y, or any other place in America that sells pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin spice muffins, or any other version of the “p”-word.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows a pumpkin nearly as big as the boy holding it, at Old Mill.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … if it’s pumpkin season, it’s time to roll out:

(Ready or not, here we come … asking once again that readers who enjoy “06880” also support it. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you — and happy Halloween!)

 

 

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Roundup: Signs, Environment, Parks & Rec …

Posted on September 11, 2025 | 6 comments

Signs are everywhere in Westport — and I’m not even talking about political ones.

Sandwich boards advertising nearby busineses are overrunning our sidewalks, encroaching on doorways and stairs.  (Don’t believe me? Check out 180 Post Road East, across from Casa Me.)

Are they legal?

Kind of.

Planning & Zoning director Michelle Perillie notes that all merchants in non-residential districts are permitted one temporary, free-standing portable sign.

But a zoning permit is required, and it must be renewed annually.

In addition:

  • Signs cannot be permanently installed in the ground.
  • Signs must be self-supporting/portable, or hung on the façade of the tenant’s building. Signs cannot be attached to an immovable object like a structure, utility or light pole or fence.
  • Signs must be no larger than 24 inches wide by 40 inches high as measured from the ground — including borders or supports. A sign hanging on a building façade can be no larger than 24 inches wide by 36 inches high, may only be one-sided, and hung flush to the building. Signs on façades must not be more than 7 feet above the ground, as measured to the top of the sign.
  • Signs may only be displayed during the hours that the business is open. Signs must be removed when the business is not open.
  • The sign must be a framed chalk board or eraser board. All wording must be hand drawn.
  • Signs must be located on the property of the business that has put out the sign. The name of the establishment must appear on or be affixed to the sign. Signs may not be located in parking spaces.
  • Signs must not interfere with pedestrian traffic or block sight lines for drivers.
  • Signs may not have lights, be lighted, or have any moving parts

To obtain a permit, merchants must set up an account here. Scaled drawings showing the proposed sign, and a survey or site plan of the property are required.

If approved, an assigned number sticker must be attached to the sign. The annual permit cost is $100.

Questions? Email mperillie@westportct.gov.

This sign probably complies with all the rules — except it does not have the business’ name. It was for Bottlerock, which has since closed. And did they apply for a $100 permit?

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There’s a lot going on at Earthplace.

Beginning tonight.

At 7 p.m. today (Thursday), a Zoom lecture with Q-and-A explores “Remarkable Raptors & Their Highways in the Sky.” As hawks, eagles, falcons and vultures migrate soon, learn more about these birds of prey.

Also ahead:

  • “Sound Bath with Abbey Chase Yoga” (September 18, 6 to 7:15 p.m.; $35, adult+).
  • “Plein Air Painting on the Trails” (September 20, 10 a.m. to noon; $10 suggested donation).
  • “Pick Your Own Bouquet” (September 21, 11 a.m. to noon; $25 members, $35 non-members).
  • “Woodland Harvest: Foraging in Fall” (September 28, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; $10 members, $12 non-members).
  • “Woodside Bash” (October 4, 7 to 10 p.m.; open bar, harvest dinner, fire pit, mechanical bull, live entertainment; $125)

 Click here for details, and registration. Questions? Email v.swain@earthplace.org.

Birds of prey are among Earthplace’s many attractions.

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Speaking of the environment: “Yes, In My Back Yard!”

That’s the name of the next Aspetuck Land Trust Lunch & Learn webinar.

The September 18 Zoom (12 to 1:30 p.m.). features restoration ecologist Meghan Noe Fellows, discussing Miaywaki-style mini-forests at scale. She’s installed over 150 of them.

Mini-forests are dense plantings of native plants, trees, and shrubs. They increase biodiversity, provide bird and insect habitat, and (ahem) block out unsightly neighbors.

There are 7 in Bridgeport. All have received raves. Now it’s time to plan these “super-clumps” at home. Click here to register, and for more information.


Typical mini-forest.

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Among the interesting agendas for upcoming meetings:

Parks & Recreation Commission (September 17, 7:30 p.m., Zoom). Topics include the Longshore capital improvement plan (maintenance facility update), and an update on the parks master plan.

The Board of Education’s Finance & Facilities Committee meets today (Thursday, September 11, 11 a.m., Town Hall auditorium). They’ll review the capital improvement plan and proposed project, and hear a status report on the Staples High School auditorium and fieldhouse floor renovations, girls team room, pool scoreboard, and the Staples athletic fields master plan.

Westport Parks & Rec will be involved in upcoming improvements at Longshore and Staples High School.

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Congratulations to Owen Goldfarb, Nathaniel Greely, Jay Hari, Isabel Jo, Dylan O’Brien, Julian Saraf, Matthew Tybur!

The 7 Staples High School seniors are semifinalists in the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Nationwide, 16,000 semifinalists — fewer than 1% of the over 1.3 million students who took the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT qualifying exam — will compete for 6,930 National Merit Scholarships, worth more than $26 million.

From left: Isabel Jo, Principal Stafford W. Thomas, Matthew Tybur, Owen Goldfarb, Julian Saraf, Dylan O’Brien, Jay Hari, Nathaniel Greeley.

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Westport Police made one custodial arrest between September 3 and 9. A 28-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with operating an unregistered motor vehicle, theft of a marker plate, illegal operation of a motor vehicle without minimum insurance and with a suspended driver’s license, illegal window tinting and violation f probation. He was held on a $61,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 29 citations
  • Driving while texting: 6
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
  • Improper use of markers: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
  • Speeding in a school zone: 2
  • Speeding: 2
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 2
  • Improper turns: 2
  • Failure to halt alcohol possession by a minor: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane:
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to wear seat belt: 1

Failure to halt alcohol possession by a minor is illegal.

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In advance of Rosh Hashanah (September 23), The Blondinit is preparing a catering menu of Israeli-inspired cooking.

Options (serving 8-10 people) include labneh, babaganush, saffron rice and chicken. All are served with pita, tahini, pickles and schug.

To order, call 203-557-3277, or email catering@theblondinit.com. All catering orders are pick-up only.

A few Rosh Hashanah options from The Blondinit.

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Dr. Amanda Posner, a well-known pediatrician, died August 28 in Westport, surrounded by her closest friends and family. She was 43.

She graduated from Dartmouth College in 2004 with a BA in religion and theater. She earned an MD from Columbia University in 2012, and completed her pediatrics residency at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in 2015. She was admired for her skill, compassion and warmth.

Amanda’ was also a talented performer. She acted and sang in productions at Dartmouth and with the Bard Hall Players at Columbia, after appearing off-Broadway as a teenager and acting in the films “Welcome to the Dollhouse” and “The Door in the Floor.”

Diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at 33, Amanda defied her illness for more than a decade, living fully and serving as an example to friends and family. She later joined the Board of Directors for the Bay Area Young Survivors (BAYS) in CA and the Norfield Children’s Center in CT.

In 2016, Amanda married Ben Neumann. Their son Andrew was the true love of Amanda’s life.

Amanda is survived by her husband Ben, son Andrew, parents Dr. Amy Newburger and Dr. Lawrence Posner of Westport, and her brother Dr. Russell Posner (Dr. Melissa Posner_ of Darien.

A celebration of Amanda’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on September 14  at Norfield Church in Weston. To honor Amanda’s lasting impact, her family is establishing an endowed professorship in the Division of General Pediatrics at UCSF.

Dr. Amanda Posner

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As summer wanes, Tomoko Meth caught this colorful “Westport … Naturally” scene at Mark Yurkiw and Wendy Van Wie’s beautiful Cross Highway home.

(Photo/Tomoko Meth)

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And finally … once you saw the “signs” story, you knew this was coming:

(All the signs point this way: to the donation page for “06880.” Hey, this stuff doesn’t post itself. We need our readers — aka “your” — help. Thanks for tossing a few bucks our way!)

 

 

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Roundup: 9/11 Ride Postponed, Restaurants Open, Le Pain Quotidien …

Posted on September 7, 2025 | 7 comments

Today’s CT United motorcycle ride — paying tribute to victims and first responders of 9/11, in the largest motorcycle ride in the state — has been canceled. The forecast is for rain this morning. There is no rain date.

The start of the CT United ride, at Sherwood Island State Park. (Photo/Penny Pearlman)

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Two new restaurants open officially on Tuesday.

Both will crush it.

And both hosted large, high-energy private parties last night.

In just 3 weeks, Don Memo has been transformed into Massi Co.

Owner Massimo Tullio has fulfilled his dream, of designing an Italian restaurant that honors his love of food from Naples. He and the team behind Don Memo (and the Whelk) and Don Memo have created a unique (and killer) menu, in a town with many other Italian options.

The space — in what was Westport’s original Town Hall, with a long bar, and broad patio fronting Post Road East — is both bright and fresh. Click here for the Massi Co website. 

Massi Co’s pizzas (being served on the right) are Neopolitan specialties. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Meanwhile, at the other end of town, 300 guests enjoyed a special party at Dandelion, the restaurant inside the new Delamar hotel.

Realtor Judy Michaelis organized the benefit, for Westport’s Volunteer Emergency Medical Service.

The Mediterranean menu and large bar will be open for dinner only, for the first weeks. Reservations are required. Click here for the Dandelion website.

Dandelion, last night. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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From beets to bread.

Le Pain Quotidien (“the daily bread”) will move into the space in the Fresh Market plaza, vacated several months ago by Little Beet.

The Brussels-based chain offers “a warm, communal dining experience with fresh, organic ingredients and delicious, artisanal baked goods.”

This is the third Fairfield County location. The others are in New Canaan and Greenwich.

Coming soon to the Fresh Market plaza. (Hat tip and photo/Molly Alger)

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A new school year brings a new slate of programs at Wakeman Town Farm.

And they’re not just for kids.

Offerings include farm and culinary experiences for youngsters; parent and child farm classes; cooking classes for toddlers, teens and adults, plus animal care, sustainability, crafts and more for older students.

Click here to see what’s up at WTF.

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Speaking of the environment: Aspetuck Land Trust and Norwalk Land Trust have merged.

The resutl: NLT’s 33-property, 110-acre portfolio has been added to ALT’s 2,200 acres, across 8 town.

Aspetuck Land Trust will add a new staff member to manage Norwalk’s preserves, and the Farm Creek Education Program for 4th graders.

Founded in 1966, ALT has over 1,700 members and is one of the state’s leading land trusts. The merger aligns with ALT’s Green Corridor 2030 Initiative, to connect and protect landscapes across Fairfield County.

To learn more about Aspetuck Land Trust, click here. 

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Yesterday’s Homes with Hope food drive was a great success.

As Westporters often do, they flooded the tables at Stop & Shop with much-needed donations.

The event was co-sponsored by the Westport Police Department, Sunrise Rotary Club and CTBites.

Homes with Hope volunteers, with their bounty.

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Also yesterday: thunderstorms, which postponed or canceled many outdoor activities. (Including Slice of Saugatuck. The new date is next Saturday.)

But one show went on: the Japanese Fall Festival, at Jesup Green.

Visitors enjoyed many aspects of the culture, including this aikido demonstration:

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Congratulations, Constance Lake!

The 2008 Staples High School graduate (also known as Constance Walsh) wrote and produced “Lodestone.” The play opened last weekend, as part of the Circle Theater Festival off Broadway.

The love story explores loss, dreams, and the innovation of language, uwninding  the desire of 2 unsuspecting lovers caught in a living zoetrope. The experimental play stages its tale inside a set that moves and dances, evoking and mirroring the character’s experiences and possible trajectories.

The show runs on 4 Sundays: today (September 7), the 14th and 21st, and October 19. To learn more, click here.

Connie Walsh

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows the first sign of fall. Richard Fogel spotted it at Old Mill, near Hillspoint Road.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … in honor of the new Le Pain Quotidien restaurant, how about a song by Bread?

(Speaking of bread … “06880” relies on contributions from readers like you. Please click here to support our work. We can’t make it without you. Thank you, thank you, thank you!)

 

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Roundup: Block “S”, F. Scott And Zelda Fitzgerald, Connecticut’s Waste …

Posted on August 21, 2025 | 8 comments

The Block “S” is back.

For 60 years the handsome metal award, on a sturdy wooden base, was the highest honor given to any Staples High School athlete. Two were given at the end of every season, by each varsity team.

Last year, athletic director VJ Sarullo abruptly replaced the award with an inexpensive plaque — without even room for the honoree’s name.

After a community uproar — including heartfelt comments by past recipients, several of whom said it was the only sports award they cared about or kept — superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice directed Sarullo to find a solution.

Several current and former Westporters offered to find a manufacturer, and/or fund it themselves.

Yesterday, Sarullo emailed the families of last year’s winners:

We are pleased to announce the return of the Block S Award, a longstanding tradition that recognizes and celebrates members from each athletic team for their dedication and meaningful contributions to the athletic program.  This award has long held significance in acknowledging student-athletes who represent the spirit and commitment of our Staples High School Athletics Family.

He offered the “original Block S trophy design” to last year’s honorees. Click here for the order form. (Hat tip: Jeff Manchester)

Block “S” award.

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“The Great Gatsby” (100 years old) has been around even longer than the Westport Country Playhouse (94).

The 2 institutions come together on September 27 (7 p.m.). The Playhouse hosts “The Fitzgeralds: A Reading with Music.” The evening offers a look at the lives behind one of the most enduring works of American literature — with readings by acclaimed performers Stephanie Zimbalist and Alec Baldwin. The original live score is by Forrest Gray.

At the heart of the show are letters between F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald. Their words reveal the love and conflict that fueled some of the 20th century’s most iconic writing. (The couple spent a spirited and memorable summer here, in 1920.)

Portions of the proceeds will benefit the Woodward Internship program at The Westport Country Playhouse. Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Friday) at 1 p.m. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, in front of their Compo Road South home.

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Connecticut faces a waste crisis. With the closure of key waste-to-energy facilities and no landfill capacity, the state increasingly relies on exporting trash — an unsustainable and costly practice.

On September 8 (7 p.m., Wakeman Town Farm), Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority director Jennifer Heaton-Jones explores the state of waste management in Connecticut, including where our trash goes, the environmental and economic impacts of our current system, and why urgent action is needed.

A key focus will be on the importance of “Recycling Right” — understanding what belongs in the recycling bin, what doesn’t, and how contamination undermines the entire recycling process. Attendees will learn how small changes in behavior can lead to big improvements in recycling efficiency and environmental outcomes.

For registration and more information, click here.

What a waste!

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Carl and Jo Ann Miller’s moving sale — with proceeds benefit VFW Post 399 and “06880” — is set for this Saturday (9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Pleasant Valley Lane off North Avenue, opposite the Bedford Middle School entrance).

There are many gems left — including one great outdoor sculpture by Kelley Spearen.

And how about this offer: Buy an item, get a free masterpiece painting by Jo Ann Miller.

Thank you, Carl and Jo Ann, for your generosity!

Kelley Spearen sculpture, at the moving sale.

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The Longshore Women’s Golf Association celebrated their 65th anniversary this week with their annual member/guest tournament.

The day of friendship and competition also raised funds, awareness and food for Filling in the Blanks. The Norwalk non-profit provides weekend meals for underserved Fairfield County children.

The LWGA — open to golfers from Westport and surrounding communities — plays 18-hole competitions every Tuesday, from April through October.

Winners of the memberr/guest, with a gross score of 60, are below (left to right) Leela Benaderet, Anne Palmer, Stina Sternberg and Tracey Narang. Joining them are Longshore head professional Jon Janik and Heidi Nolte, LWGA tournament chair.

(Photo/Sue Roberts)

Net team winners, with a score of 53, were Cindy Scope, Rickie Haas, Jerre Skeats and Jill Hanau.

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A few tickets remain for Shorefest — the Friends of Sherwood Island State Park evening of great food (from Westfair Fish & Chips), entertainment (John Lamb), and a silent auction with very cool local items.

The event is September 5 (6 to 9 p.m. at Sherwood Island — of course).

All proceeds fund the intern program, tree plantings, dune restoration and  Nature Center. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Online orders begin soon  for Aspetuck Land Trust’s fall native plant sale.

Members have access on Tuesday (August 26). Non-members can order on September 2. Pickup is October 3-5, at Haskins Preserve in Westport.

Offerings include perennials, shrubs, grasses and trees. Click here for the full list.

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Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests between August 13 and 19.

A 23-year-old Greenwich man was charged with interfering with an officer, assault of a public safety worker, criminal attempt to assault a public safety officer, and breach of peace, following a disturbance at Cedar Point Yacht Club. The man — allegedly intoxicated — initially ran from officers. He then disobeyed verbal commands, and physically resisted efforts to detain him, while trying to harm the officers. He posted $75,000 bond.

A 65-year-old Westport man was charged with disorderly conduct and unlawful restrain, follwoing a domestic disturbance. He allegedly pushed and attempted to restrain the victim.

A 24-year-old Yonkers, New York woman was charged with larceny, after a report of shoplifting at Lululemon. She was found to have multiple bags designed to defeat security measures, and $1,122 worth of stolen merchandise.

A 51-year-old Waterbury man was charged with violation of probation, after officers responding to a disturbance at a Westport home found he was the subject of an active arrest warrant. He could not post $50,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Driving while texting: 9 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 8
  • Failure to renew registration: 3
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 3
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Speeding: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without tint inspection: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

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Scott Smith provides today’s “Westport … Naturally” image, and an explanation:

:One of my favorite local walks is along Burying Hill Beach, at low tide.

“So imagine my surprise when I rounded Frost Point and came across a beach awash with fresh green apples. Must’ve been a whole bushel’s worth.

“Who knows how they got there — aside from the tide, current and wind. And gravity, of course.

“Some were a bit bruised, but I picked one up to sample. It was delicious, if a tad salty. Go figure.”

(Photo/Scott Smith)

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And finally (of course):

(God didn’t make little green apples … and he’s not donating to “06880” either. But you can! Please click here, to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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