Tag Archives: Basso Restaurant

Roundup: Caroling Crawl, Christmas Tree Pick-up, Basso Art …

Posted on December 16, 2025 | 2 comments

If you dine in Saugatuck this Saturday, don’t be surprised if carolers come to your table.

You can even book a reservation, to make sure your evening is merry and bright.

The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Saugatuck Caroling Crawl is set for December 20 (6 to 8 p.m.).

Staples High School’s elite Orphenians will sing a medley of songs, at 14 venues.

They begin at the Boathouse (Saugatuck Rowing Club), before heading to The Bridge, Kawa Ni, The Whelk, Tutti’s and the Black Duck.

Then it’s off to the train station, and Tarantino, Blu Olive and Romanacci. The final destinations are Riko’s Pizza, Zucca Gastrobar, Rizzuto’s, Viva Zapata and Little Pub @Dunville’s. 

Joyeux Noël. And bon appétit!

Staples Orphenians: stars of the Saugatuck Caroling Crawl.

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Meanwhile, what will you do after Christmas?

Specifically, how will you get rid of that beautiful (but dried-out) tree — in an environmentally responsible way?

Scout Troops 39 and 139 will do it for you. It’s a win-win-win: convenient and affordable pick-up for residents; free mulch and conservation material for the town — and the only fundraiser of the year for the Scouts.

The event is all day, on January 10. Troops will pick up over 800 trees, in every neighborhood.

The suggested donation of $25 per tree — less than most services — helps fund a full year of Scout meetings, experiences and gear.

Click here for details, and to sign up. 

Who you gonna call? Scout Troops 39 and 139!

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As Basso prepares to close its doors — its last day is Thursday — they invite residents to “bring our spirit into your home.”

The striking art that has hung on the walls of the Jesup Road restaurant is for sale (see below).

Pieces will go to the highest offer, All works must be picked up by 10 a.m. Friday. Email contactbassocafe@gmail.com.

“Sofia Mediterráneo,” 9×7′, canvas; starting offer, $2000

“Barcelona,” 6×3.5″, canvas; starting offer, $1000

“La Corrida,” 7×3.5′, canvas; starting offer, $600

“Still Life Multicolor,” 10×6′, canvas; starting offer, $1900

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Michael Kopko’s theater story comes full circle.

At Staples High School, the 1976 graduate was very involved with Players. He then co-founded a theater company in Massachusetts, and produced, directed and acted in an Equity troupe before retiring a year ago.

Mark Shanahan — now the Westport Country Playhouse artistic director — was a good friend of Kopko’s company; he directed, wrote and acted in many productions.

Kopko worked at the Playhouse while growing up. He always dreamed of performing on the legendary stage, but never got the chance.

His daughter is now an actor. She lives in Los Angeles, and over the years has worked with Shanahan.

Kopko was in the audience Sunday — proud of his daughter Alexandra, his friend Mark Shanahan, and the Playhouse where it all began.

Michael and Alexandra Kopko, at her Playhouse dressing room.

But that’s not all.

Kopko’s nostalgic weekend began the night before. He attended a caroling party — an annual tradition for over 40 years — hosted by Staples grads and musicians Brad Peterson (SHS ’75) and his wife Abby Anderson Peterson (’76).

A number of former Players and Orphenians were there — including the Petersons’ children Katie, Sarah and Scott. All are Staples grads too (2000, ’04 and ’12, respectively).

“Old” Orphenians. Brad Peterson is front right; Abby Peterson holds the candle.

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Also this past weekend: the first snowfall of the season.

Did you notice how quickly and well the streets were plowed?

Maybe not. But Wendy Kleros and Claudia Coplen — co-chairs of the Westport Commission for Senior Services — did. They write:

“We extend our gratitude and appreciation to the entire Department of Public Works eam for their outstanding work clearing the roads and public parking lots.

“Their diligence and responsiveness make a meaningful difference for our community each and every day, particularly at the Senior Center, where safe and timely access is essential.

“Because of their efforts, older adults, staff, and visitors arrived safely and continued their daily routines without disruption. That kind of reliability brings real peace of mind, and reflects a deep commitment to public service.

“Their behind-the-scenes work often goes unnoticed. But its impact is felt by everyone, especially our senior residents who depend on clear, accessible pathways.

“We thank them for their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to keeping Westport safe and moving forward, no matter the conditions.”

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Looking to buy a holiday gift at the AT&T Store?

You’ll have to go somewhere other than Westport.

Sal Liccione reports that the store at 180 Post Road East — opposite Finalmente and Jeera Thai — has closed.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

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The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is Thursday (December 18, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).

It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.

Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.

RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.

PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!

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Also at the VFW (as it is every Thursday): Jazz at the Post.

This week, guitarist Kenny Wessel — for years a key member of Ornette Coleman’s band, and now a Westport favorite and frequent collaborator with saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall — headlines the 2 shows (7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; click here for tickets and more information).

Also sitting in: bassist Boots Maleson and drummer Mike Campenni.

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Longtime Westport resident Margery Silk died peacefully on Friday, at home. She turned 101 just 3 days earlier.

A third generation Californian — her great-grandparents founded the railroad and lumber town of Truckee in 1863 — she was valedictorian of her 1941 class at South Pasadena/San Marino High School.

Margery began her studies at Stanford University, then earned an undergraduate degree from UCLA and a master’s in art history from NYU.

She met her future husband — New Zealander and Life magazine photographer George Silk — while skiing at Stowe, Vermont.

Margery traveled the world pursuing her interests in art, architecture, birds and other animals, music and culinary pursuits.

Margery was a member of the Westport Garden Club, Bronx Botanical Gardens, the Bronx Zoo, and local tennis and bridge groups. At Cedar Point Yacht Club she crewed for her husband.

She was also active in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Aspetuck Land Trust (founding member), Friends of Sherwood Island, and Connecticut Audubon Society.

Her family calls Margery “that lady in tennis shoes and tennis skirt who came of age in the 1960s and ’70s, and who championed the ‘good fights’ by writing letters in many directions.” She helped lead the charge to defeat a plan to build a nuclear power plant on Cockenoe Island, in the 1960s.

Margery is survived by her children Stuart Silk, Georgiana Silk, and Shelley Silk
Wehrly and their spouses; grandchildren: Michael and Alexis Silk; Bryan, Kate
and Alexander Liggett, and Stuart Wehrly, Liza Wehrly Andrews and Christopher Wehrly and their spouses, and 12 great-grandchildren.

A private celebration of life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Aspetuck Land Trust and Friends of Sherwood Island State Park.

Margery Silk

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Doug Brill. He spotted these beauties just hanging out on Saugatuck Shores, during the weekend snow:

(Photo/Doug Brill)

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And finally … the murders of Rob Reiner and his wife saddened the talented actor and director’s many friends.

He gave us many memorable moments. Two very different films stand out:

(“06880” is here for you — 24/7/365. You can stand by us — just click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Obituaries, Restaurants, Staples HS, Weather

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Roundup: Candidate Forums, Candidate Signs, AI & Us …

Posted on October 12, 2025 | 5 comments

Early voting starts a week from tomorrow (Monday, October 20).

Unsure who to vote for? Clueless about the candidates?

Two events this week can help.

On Tuesday (October 14, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall) the 3 candidates for 1st selectman will answer questions (from moderators and the audience) on stage. The League of Women Voters Westport and Westport Youth Commission are sponsors. This is a special event for students, but adults are invited.

On Wednesday (October 15, 2 p.m., Senior Center) the LWV sponsors “A Conversation with Board of Finance Candidates.”

This Thursday (October 16, 6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy), Westport Journal is sponsoring a 1st Selectman candidates debate. Registration is required; click here. 

Coming soon:

  • Select Board Candidates Debate: October 21, 12 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
  • A Seat at the Selectman’s Table: October 21, 6 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by Westport Library Common Ground Initiative. Registration required; click here. 
  • A Conversation with Board of Education Candidates: October 22, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall. Co-sponsored by League of Women Voters Westport and “06880.”
  • A Conversation with Planning & Zoning Commission Candidates: October 23; 7 p.m. Senior Center. Co-sponsored by League of Women Voters Westport and “06880.”
  • Candidates Debates: Board of Education, Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Assessment Appeals, Board of Finance: October 27, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport.
  • Candidates Debate: 1st Selectman and Planning & Zoning Commission: October 28, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport. 

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Speaking of voting, Lynn Flint writes:

“Someone banged on my door around midday today, a man I did not recognize. I ignored the pounding. He left after a while, but he left a brochure. I’m guessing it was for a campaign.

“I can’t reach it to read it, because I can’t find my grabber. Maybe tomorrow morning I’ll figure out what it’s about.

“This is a very bad time to go around pounding on people’s doors. We’re all a little nervous about strangers. If he is running for an office, he doesn’t understand the right way to do it.

“I had another candidate stick signs on my property, without permission.

“I also think this barrage of signs is distracting to drivers. Should we vote for the first person in the line of signs, the last person or somebody in the middle? Do they really want to look like lawn maintenance or a tag sale?

“The blight committee is so fastidious about the image of Westport. How can they stomach these hideous signs everywhere on our roadsides?

“If people want to know how to vote, it’s much more informative to consider the statements of the individuals and the information put out by the League of Women Voters, don’t you think?”

(NOTE: Campaign signs are free speech, and permitted on town property. However, they cannot be put on private property without the owner’s permission.)

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Hundreds of human beings gathered yesterday at the Westport Library, to discuss their future — at least, as it relates to artificial intelligence.

The in-depth exploration of AI — and its implications across law, business, healthcare, education and technology — was sponsored by Verso University, the Library’s lifelong learning and education initiative.

It spanned 3 sessions. Yale Law School professor Scott Shapiro led off with a discussion of AI’s role in legal reasoning, government ethics, and cybersecurity, alongside Kevin Nguyen, features editor at The Verge.

The second session examined the ways in which AI is shaping Connecticut’s innovation landscape, higher education, healthcare, workforce and legislation.

The final session concluded with reflections from Kate Crawford, one of AI’s leading scholars of artificial intelligence and its material impacts. (Hat tip: Les Dinkin)

Kevin Nguyen and Kate Crawford. (Photo/Dinkin ESH Fotografix)

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Westporters will participate in Saturday’s “No Kings Day” national event.

The October 18 protest against President Trump begins at 11 a.m., at Jesup Green. Participants will march to Veterans Green, for speakers and music. The route follows one taken by Westport’s suffragists, in 1913.

One of the organizers, Darcy Hicks, says: “In Westport, No Kings Day is an opportunity to signal to our local leaders who we are and what we hold dear.

Most of us spend much of our time caring for family, whether that is our children, spouses, or parents. This is about them.

“We are marching for the preservation of the water and air they breathe, for truth in their classrooms, for their healthcare, and for their social security. Most of all, we are marching for the rehabilitation of love, and the right for all of our neighbors, regardless of their faith, gender identity, race, or economic standing, to live with dignity.”

A “No Kings” sign, from Westport’s June protest. (Photo/Pippa Bell Ader)

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I’m not sure what “Fish on the Pumpkin” is.

But it’s one of the seasonal specials you’ll find at Basso’s Halloween party.

It’s October 31. Music starts at 7:30 p.m. Manny Montañez and his orchestra will play — with Chef Renato joining in on percussion. Dancing is encourage.

So are costumes are encouraged (but not required). Click here for reservations.

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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 this Tuesday (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.

To RSVP or for more information, email info@tapstrength.com.

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Walk ALS comes to Sherwood Island State Park this Saturday (October 18). Registration begins at 10 a.m. The walk kicks off at 11.

Click here for details, and more information.

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Renaissance and Baroque dances, folk songs and vocal masterworks from England, France and Italy fill Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall this Saturday (October 18, 5 p.m.

Soprano Sherezade Panthaki joins Parthenia Viol Consort (praised by The New Yorker as “one of the brightest lights in New York’s early-music scene”).

A reception follows the concert. Click here for tickets, and more information.

This was not taken at Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall. But that’s where Saturday’s concert will be.

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Duke University’s women’s crew team had a successful High Point Autumn Rowing Festival — thanks in large part to Mia Khamish of Westport.

Competing against international competition from Edinburgh and Oxford in North Carolina, the Blue Devils snagged 2 first-place finishes.

In the afternoon 8 race, the senior coxswain’s decision-making at a crucial moment made a key difference.

Coach Adrian Spracklen called it “very mature, very smart … a tremendous call that you expect from a senior — someone that’s done it before.” To see the race, click here.

The Staples High graduate rowed for the Connecticut Boat Club.

Mia Khamish

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Yeah, yeah, we’ve posted a couple of close-up “Westport … Naturally” photos recently of bees doing their thing with flowers.

In this one, the flowers are the focus.

Literally.

(Photo/Juliana Rosenoer)

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And finally … today is the birthday of James “Sugar Boy” Crawford.

The New Orleans R&B musician wrote “Jock-a-Mo” in 1954.

A Mardi Gras standard, it became a hit a decade later for the Dixie Cups, as “Iko Iko.” It was recorded by many other artists too, including Dr. John, Belle Stars, the Grateful Dead, Cyndi Lauper, and (as “Geto Boys”) by Glass Candy.

But Crawford’ s career ended in 1963. A severe beating at the hands of state troopers incapacitated him for 2 years. In 1969, he decided to sing only in churches. He died in 2012, at 77. He is now in the Louisiana Music Hall Of Fame.

(No matter who you vote for, there’s one decision we can all agree on: When you click here to support “06880,” everyone wins! No recount necessary … thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Local politics, Politics, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged , , ,

Roundup: Shonda Rhimes, Don O’Day, John Oates …

Posted on August 15, 2025 | 3 comments

StoryFest — a Westport Library signature event — returns in October, bigger and better than ever.

It’s expanding to a full week of author talks, panel discussions and more.

And it’s just signed its biggest name ever for a closing act.

Shonda Rhimes — the award-winning producer, Westport resident and huge Library fan — takes the stage on Monday, October 20 (7 p.m.).

Closing out the 8th annual StoryFest, she’ll celebrate the 10th anniversary of her best-selling memoir, “Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun, and Be Your Own Person.”

With special guests, Rhimes will share the new moments that shaped her life over the past 10 years, plus the fears she conquered and the unexpected joy of embracing life with an open mind.

“This book is the same as before, but it also is not,” said Rhimes. “It is brand new. It has changed. Transformed. Evolved. Grown. Just like me.”

Tickets are $30, and include a signed copy of the 10th-anniversary edition of “Year of Yes.” The price is the same for 1 or 2 seats, and one copy of the book.

StoryFest 2025 runs October 13-20. The largest annual literary festival in Connecticut and one of the biggest in the Northeast, it is a celebration of the story in all its forms and storytellers from across all media. It draws scores of authors and hundreds of readers, writers and fans.

Rhimes knows the Westport Library well. She was the 2022 “Booked for the Evening” honoree. She also held a special screening of her documentary “Black Barbie” last year, and served as the guest of honor for Westport’s 19th annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration this past January.

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“06880” kicked off our selectpersons’ Instagram Live series yesterday, with Don O’Day and Andrea Moore as guests.

Dave Briggs and I asked the Republican-endorsed candidates about a wide range of topics: Saugatuck development, the Cribari Bridge, the Community Gardens, education, traffic, and much more. Viewers added questions too.

We’ll sit down with the other candidates soon. In the meantime, click here or below to see our conversation with O’Day and Moore.

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Speaking of politics:

Democratic selectperson candidates Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich invite all interested residents to a “Coffee and Conversation” event next Thursday (August 21, 9 to 10:30 a.m., Westport Library McCall room, 2nd floor).

Another is scheduled for Thursday, September 18.

Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich.

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In 1985, Hall & Oates did not play a concert in Westport.

Their “appearance” at the Inn at Longshore — part of our town’s 150th birthday celebration — was a memorable hoax. (Read that fascinating back story here.)

But — a mere 40 years later — John Oates will play in Westport.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer has just been added to the Levitt Pavilion’s calendar. He and his Good Road Band are set for next Friday (August 22, 7 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.

John Oates

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The Atlantic’s September cover story, “This Is What the End of the Liberal World Order Looks Like” — staff writer Anne Applebaum’s reports from war-torn Sudan — is accompanied by stunning photographs from Pulitzer Prize winner (and 1991 Staples High School graduate) Lynsey Addario.

Applebaum says that Sudan’s suffering offers “a stark preview of what will follow the collapse of the liberal world order and the retreat of U.S. leadership: not a more just world, but a descent into nihilistic violence.” (Hat tip: Rosalie Wolf)

The Atlantic’s September issue features this cover photo by Lynsey Addario.

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Westport has 6 new Local Historic Properties.

And they’re all bridges.

On Tuesday, the Historic District Commission accepted those designations for these bridges, on town-owned land:

  • Evergreen Avenue, over Deadman Brook
  • Jesup Road, over Deadman Brook
  • Myrtle Avenue, over Deadman Brook.
  • Greens Farms Road, over Muddy Brook
  • Cross Highway, over Muddy Brook
  • Long Lots Road, over Muddy Brook.

The proposal now goes to the Representative Town Meeting (RTM), for final approval.

Greens Farms Road bridge, over Muddy Brook (Photo/Wendy Crowther)

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Popcorn … that staple of movie theaters and baseball stadiums — comes to the Westport Country Playhouse on Monday (August 18, 7 p.m.).

The first event is — appropriately — a movie night. And — appropriately too — the film is “The Sting,” starring Paul Newman. He had a decades-long association with the Playhouse.

(He also owned the restaurant next door, The Dressing Room. It did not sell popcorn.)

The Playhouse’s “gourmet popcorn” comes from Prospector Popcorn in Ridgefield. It’s been handmade for 10 years and sold at the Prospector Theater, supportng the company’s mission to create jobs for people with disabilities.

Prepackaged bags will be available at all Playhouse events for $8 each. They may be brought into the theater itself.

Coming soon, to a Playhouse near you. (Photo/Andrea Quiles)

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Speaking of food: Basso opened in January 2021 — an inopportune time, in the winter and the midst of a pandemic.

But it quickly became one of Westport’s favorites.

Now, Basso celebrates its 18th birthday.

That’s right. The restaurant started in Norwalk, and spent 14 popular years there.

The party begins Friday, August 22 (7:30 p.m.), with live music from Manny Montañez & Friends. Chef Renato Donzelli takes a break from the kitchen, to join on congas. Click here for reservations.

Basso will be filled — as it often is — on August 22.

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VFW Post 399 reaches out to veterans in many ways.

Next up: a Veterans Benefits Luncheon on Thursday (August 21, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.).

It’s free, and open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.

Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.

RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.

PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!

All veterans are invited to the VFW’s free August 21 luncheon.

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When I got this photo from ever-alert “06880” reader Jack Backiel, I figured it was a clever AI or Photoshop reference to some residents’ habits of “forgetting” to pick up after their dogs:

Nope. (Noope.)

Turns out to be a business district in Amsterdam.

Damn!

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Dozens of Staples High School football players gathered at Paul Lane Field yesterday for the 6th annual Murph Challenge.

It was a culmination of their summer fundraising, for both the football program and the Catch a Lift Fund (the non-profit that helps post-9/11 combat-injured veterans regain mental and physical health).

The event began with Catch a Lift veteran Andy Smith talking to the players about sacrifice, resilience and commitment.

Then the athletes took on the Murph Challenge. It includesd a mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another mile run.

The 2025 season begins next month.

Andy Smith (far right) addresses the Staples football team.

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Longtime Westport resident, entrepreneur and business owner Thomas Roth died on Sunday. He was 80, and had been diagnosed with cancer a month earlier.

The New York native — by then a fabric manufacturer — met his wife Theresa in 1983, at a fabric trade show. His obituary calls their marriage “rich in conversation, travel, and a loving circle of adoring friends and family.”

He loved her children as his own. He doted on his grandchildren, and traveled around the country to watch their sports games, concerts and lays.

His obituary adds, “he had a deep appreciation for beautiful objects and surroundings. His eye for design was unmatched. He skillfully blended new and vintage pieces to elevate any space.”

Tom was an avid boater. He often quoted “Wind in the Willows”: “There is nothing — absolutely nothing — half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.”

Tom is survived by . His wife of 42 years, Theresa; their children Michael Chaney (Christine) and Anne Delorier (Chris); grandchildren Jack, Ryan and Colin Chaney, and Mason, Miles and Ellie Delorier; brothers Edwin (Joan) and Barry (Anneli), and his “chosen brother” Peter Arest, and nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family is holding a private remembrance. Donations in Tom’s name can be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation.

Tom Roth

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Jonathan Rosenoer sends along today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, of Long Island Sound.

He adds, “I’m not sure how to caption this. It may reflect low air quality. But it’s pretty, all the same.”

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And finally … in honor of popcorn coming to the Westport Country Playhouse (story above):

Every day, our Roundup offers news, views — and entertainment options. If “06880” helps you learn more about Westport, and have fun in the process, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Library, Local politics, Obituaries, Restaurants, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Carvel, Donut Crazy, Tulips …

Posted on April 30, 2025 | 19 comments

In what may be the most significant change to the Westport Carvel since a giant ice cream cone was removed from the roof 50 years ago, the iconic sign facing Post Road East has been covered up.

The new sign says, generically, “Soft Serve Ice Cream.”

The owner says the cost of renovating the seems-it’s-been-there-forever building, as requested by Carvel, is too high.

The good news: His supplier remains the same.

Oh no! (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of food: The train has left the Donut Crazy station.

The shop at the eastbound side of the Westport station was served with an eviction notice in January, CT Insider reports. The owner has allegedly not paid rent since last summer. Click here for the full story.

A few of Donut Crazy’s donuts.

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Last night’s Pics of the Day featured 3 gorgeous tulip photos.

Two are the work of Andrew Colabella.

The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member and several colleagues spent 2 years planting bulbs at the Minute Man monument. Westport will enjoy their work for years to come.

Last year, Andrew planted some the 1,500 bulbs donated by the Parks & Recreation Department in the Compo Beach entrance island.

Now he wants to do the entire entrance strip.

Interested in helping? Email acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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The “06880” panel on youth sports is 2 weeks from today.

We’ve partnered with Tommy Greenwald — the famed youth adult sports fiction writer, former Staples athlete (and father of 3 athletes) — to present “Fair Play and Foul Behavior: Issues Facing Youth Sports in Today’s World.”

It’s May 14 (7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria).

Topics include the achievement/pressure balance, referee abuse, sport specialization, cost, the “academy” syndrome, myths and realities of college recruiting, and more.

Dan Woog — hey, that’s me! — will moderate the event, which includes time for audience questions. Panelists are:

  • VJ Sarullo, Staples athletic director
  • Dave Smith, father of 4 athletes who writes frequently on youth sports topics
  • Caleb Smith, former Staples quarterback and lacrosse star, now playing football at the University of Connecticut
  • Heather Talbott, PAL girls lacrosse co-president and basketball organizer; former lacrosse player at Lehigh University
  • Mark Pressman, longtime football and softball official
  • And of course Tommy Greenwald himself.

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Congratulations to 3 environmental winners.

Last week, town officials and Sustainable Westport gave Westport Green Building Awards to these owners, for exemplifying sustainable design and construcction:

17 Maple Grove Avenue (owner Scott Harrington). New construction designed and built as net zero energy. All appliances, heating and cooling systems are electric, and use the photovoltaic roof for power. The insulation exceeds codes. A smart home scheduler minimizes HVAC use by scheduling window shades to follow the path of the sun, and limit heavy electronics usage to only off-peak hours.

1 Hockanum Road (owner Thomas Hensel). Home renovation that integrates a PV system that offsets the residence’s power consumption. After an energy audit audit, the owner added attic insulation, weatherstripping, and mechanical and lighting upgrades. The HVAC system was upgraded to include smart thermostats and duct sealing. Insulation was installed on the hot water piping. Retrofit LED lighting fixtures reduce power consumption while providing the same light levels.

142-150 Main Street, Nômade Restaurant (owners Ciara Webster, Patrick Jean). Renovation and reuse of an existing historic structure; uses renewable energy to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. The roof over the dining terrace features a semi-transparent roof-integrated photovoltaic system. The visibility of the solar panels stimulates the interest of other local business owners and patrons to go solar.

For more information, click here.

Sustainable Westport and 2025 Green Building Award winners.

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The Planning & Zoning Commission continues its discussion of The Hamlet at its next meeting (May 5, 6 p.m., Zoom).

It’s just one agenda item. Members will also discuss the plan by Fairfield County Hunt Club to construct an indoor racquets facility, and a request to convert the former Bank of America building at 980 Post Road East into a Montessori School, among other things.

Meanwhile, the Flood & Erosion Control Board will examine the Hamlet at its next meeting.

The last agenda item for their May 7 meeting (7:30 p.m.; Zoom; meeting ID 823 4909 8338; passcode 954845), is a continuation of the discussion that began April 2.

Part of the proposed Hamlet project, leading to the Saugatuck River.

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How hard is it to make paella?

Basso makes it easy.

The Jesup Road restaurant offers regular classes about the classic dish. With wine and tapas thrown in, what’s not to like?

Sal Liccione took part on Monday, and sent this tasty photo:

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

Next at Basso: a pizza-making class, this Sunday (May 4, 12:30 p.m.). Click here for details.

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Club203’s magical monthly parties continue.

Up next for Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities: Dancing with DJ Joe, (and s’mores, a campfire and pizza), under the stars at Earthplace. Click here for more information.

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Westport has long been a soccer town for kids.

And adults.

There’s even a 50-and-over men’s team here.

They’re as good as their younger counterparts. In fact, a 5-0 state tournament semifinal win on Sunday vaulted them into the Connecticut State Soccer Championship. It’s set for June 8 (4 p.m., Dillon Stadium, Hartford), vs. Greenwich Pumas.

That was quite a semi. Rangers had been undefeated — and unscored upon — in league play.

The 50-and-over final is the second big soccer event that weekend. The day before (June 7), the US men’s national team meets Turkey in a friendly, at Rentschler Field in East Hartford.

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For some reason, wrong-way drivers on Soundview Drive have become an epidemic.

Residents report alarmingly frequent encounters.

The latest was yesterday:

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

Be careful out there!

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Senator Chris Murphy is the keynote speaker at the Center for Children’s Advocacy, at New England’s largest youth legal rights organization’s second annual event.

It’s set for Friday (5:30 p.m.), in Westport. Sponsors include Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder. For more information and to RSVP, email mason.miller@berlinrosen.com.

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Carol Anne Ances shares today’s glorious spring scene, with our many “Westport … Naturally” fans:

(Photo/Carol Anne Ances)

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And finally … today is Walpurgis. In German folklore, tonight (Walpurgisnacht) — May Day eve — is when witches meet on the Brocken mountain, and revel with the Devil.

(There is no need to repent — at least, not if you click here to help support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Danke schön!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Local business, Real estate, Sports

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Photo Challenge #539

Posted on April 27, 2025 | 29 comments

There was an interesting mix of answers to last week’s Photo Challenge.

A good number of our readers thought the colorful Prosecco cart in Ed Simek’s image was outside Mrs. London’s. (Click here to see.)

It could have been.

But the correct answer — as Patricia McMahon, David Meth, Lynn Untermeyer Miller, Andrew Colabella, Jeannie Pearl, Rachel Sara Halperin, Sal Liccione, Amy Schneider and Tom Talmadge knew — was Basso.

They definitely know their Prosecco carts!

Today’s Photo Challenge shows a nice place for a picnic. If you were going to bring some Prosecco here, where would it be? Click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Seth Schachter)

(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Bird Flu Followup, Final Winter Farmers’ Market, Paella At Basso …

Posted on March 12, 2025 | 2 comments

After reading yesterday’s “06880” story on bird flu in Westport, a reader noted that the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection does not cite any cases in Westport.

Peter Reid — the town’s animal control officer, who provided much of the information to “06880” — says: “I informed DEEP wildlife division in February that we were seeing high goose mortality in Westport. They told me they were aware that avian flu is afflicting geese in the state, and would not be testing any additional specimens.

“I think the lack of confirmed cases in the statistics cited by the ‘06880’ reader simply indicates that no test was conducted on a carcass sourced from Westport.

“DEEP is well aware of the presence of avian flu in the state, and has noted it on their websites. However, that agency likely does not have the budget to test every bird. (Necropsies can cost several hundred dollars per bird).

“Absent a positive test result, and any other convincing explanation for the high rate of bird deaths, I think we have to consider it likely that avian flu is striking birds in Westport.

“Geese fly where they will, and do not recognize our political boundaries, so some will inevitably land in Westport. So far a relatively small percentage of geese have been infected. These are the carcasses people are seeing.

“In the past few weeks we are also noting high mortality in hawks, crows and vultures, the species most likely to scavenge the carcasses of dead geese. These birds are exhibiting the same neurological distress we saw in the infected geese, and mortality is close to 100% in infected birds.

“I would stress that we have not seen any cases in the songbird population, or received any reports from elsewhere in the state, so leaving feeders up should be fine for now.

“Avian flus have hit this area before, and in the past these flu events seem to subside by mid-summer.”

Dead birds, in Ned Dimes Marina.

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One more sign that spring is near: Tomorrow’s Westport Farmers’ Market is the last of the winter.

After the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. event at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, the farmers take a break. The outdoor market opens May 8.

Executive director Lori Cochran has a special message for all. She says:

“As we look back with gratitude for those that paved the way for this local food community, I am reminded of the importance in remembering what we have been taught — what we have learned.

“Selma Miriam of Bloodroot Restaurant, who recently passed away, comes to mind. Selma and Noel have supported this market since it opened 17 years ago. Their restaurant of 48 years buys from this market weekly.

“Selma has held me to task since the day we met. Her strength was palatable — she was mighty. Her love for growers and her community was heartfelt — she showed it with ease and passion. Her genuineness and commitment to her beliefs were and will remain inspiring. Selma will be missed by this market, this community and me.

“Thank you Selma, for the many gifts you shared with WFM.”

Selma Miriam: Westport Farmers’ Market friend.

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The Grand List is out. Got a gripe?

The Board of Assessment Appeals meets Wednesday, March 19, (7 p.m., Town Hall green room, downstairs) to hear from taxpayers who are “aggrieved by the doings of the assessor on the Grand List of October 1, 2024, and the 2023 Supplemental Motor Vehicle list.”

Residents should bring supporting documents to the session.

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Coming up at Wakeman Town Farm:

Cocktails and dinner fundraiser for Altadena Girls (program for teenagers affected by the Los Angeles wildfires): March 20, 7 p.m.; $250; click here for details.

“Goat togethers”: Chances for families and small groups to cuddle with newborn goats (“kids with kids”); 30-minute sessions, $20; click here for details.

Spring break 1-hour farm playdates: March 14 and 15, 10 a.m.; ages 1-3; click here for details.

Wakeman Town Farm goats. (Photo/Michelle Cardello)

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Sure, you order paella. But can you make it?

Basso Restaurant & Wine Bar can help. On Sunday, March 23 (12:30 p.m.), chef Renato Donzelli offers a “paella-making showcase.”

Attendees will learn the history of paella; how to select tools, pan and rice; the “secret ingredient,” and (of course) how to cook it.

The $130 ticket includes a course of traditional Spanish tapas, wine, printed materials — and paella. Click here to register, and for more information.3333

Paella!

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Students from Staples High School, and Bedford and Coleytown Middle Schools, didn’t just do well at the recent Connecticut History Day competition.

They crushed it.

Dozens of Westport students submitted entries that focused on this year’s theme, “Rights and Responsibilities in History.”

Middle school students placing in the top 3 in various categories, advancing to the statewide competition, include:

  • Zayd Hemdan (“Harvey Milk: A Voice for Equality, A Responsibility for Change”)
  • Avery Hand (“The Scopes Trial: Rights and Responsibilities in Education”
  • Hanna Calandro (“Richard Nixon and the Watergate Scandal”)
  • Hugh Devine and Arjun Aujla (“Clay vs. USA”)
  • Serena Beitel and Charlotte Worraker (“FDR and the Four Freedoms Speech”)
  • Zoe Abrams (“How Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. Advanced Womens’ Rights in the Workplace”)
  • Penelope Whitbourne (“Rebel, Rebel: David Bowie and the First Amendment”)
  • Ashley Charise, Maia Steigler, Janaki Velugula (“1970 Kent State Shooting and the Effect on America”)
  • Paige Turnbull, Reiko Nagata, Charlotte Carkey (Junior Individual Website)
  • Evie Sloan (“Order 9066, Why it Happened, Who it affected, and What it Impacted”)

Staples High School students advancing to the state competition include:

  • Amelia Berkowitz, Jori Altman (“The White Rose: How Student Activists Redefined Nonviolent Youth Resistance”)
  •  Jessica Anderson, Siri Klassen, Maddie Sine (“COINTELPRO: The FBI’s Hidden Agenda”)
  • Brendan Whitbourne (“WWII and the Birth of Human Rights”)
  • Juliet Cutler, Gavin Jamali (“Voices of Empowerment: Women’s Roles, Rights, and Responsibilities in the Harlem Renaissance”)
  • Sam Viner, Emm Himes, Ethan Selva (“Stepping Up to the Plate: Jackie Robinson’s Impact in the Fight for Civil Rights”)

Hugh Devine and Arjun Aujla, with their medals.

History Day winners.

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This month’s Westport Book Shop guest exhibitors are students.

Barbara Silk, Angelina Wu, Frankie Gray, Agnes Paulsson, Paula Fleming and Cynthia Ellis all study with instructor Connie Manna.

A reception is set for March 19 (6 p.m.). The exhibit will be up all month.

March art exhibit, at Westport Book Shop.

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More signs of spring, in our “Westport … Naturally” feature: these crocuses, in Elizabeth Levey’s yard near Longshore.

(Photo/Elizabeth Levey)

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And finally … happy 76th birthday to James Taylor!

(You’ve got a friend in “06880.” We’re here for you, 24/7/365. We hope you’ll be a good friend to us, too. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Children, Education, Environment, Local business, Restaurants

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Toquet’s Grungy Alley: A Simple Solution

Posted on February 5, 2025 | 11 comments

There are several ways to get from the Jesup Green parking lots to the Post Road and Main Street.

You can walk toward Starbucks. Through Taylor Place, next to Tiffany. The Walrus Alley alley. Across the Bank of America lot. Down Bay Street.

You can also take the alley between Green & Tonic and the Westport Book Shop, passing Toquet Hall on your right.

But why would you?

That quick shortcut could be the skankiest in town.

Toquet Hall alley.

It’s filthy. An array of garbage cans gives it a distinctive smell. You might not get mugged there, but it feels like you will.

Has anyone tried to clean it up?

Yes.

Basso — the restaurant a few doors down from the unnamed alley — wants to beautify it.

Sure, it would help them. But it would add to the appeal of its retail neighbors, while also offering another way to drive foot traffic across both sides of the Post Road.

A great shortcut. But little used, for obvious reasons.

Basso owner Renato Donzelli has proposed a low-cost, interactive and culturally enriching initiative. Local artists could create murals along the gray walls of the buildings. Visible from the Post Road, the artwork would showcase Westport’s history, culture and values.

The town could host a competition to choose artists. (A similar project was a great success in Norwalk, Basso’s previous home.)

At the same time, enclosing the dumpsters would provide aesthetic — and health — benefits.

Light fixtures similar to those at Basso and on Main Street would create continuity, showcase the art, and ameliorate some of those I-might-get-jumped-here fears.

Planters on both sides would add to the upgraded alley’s appeal.

Basso has helped its neighborhood in the past. In 2021 they spent more than $20,000 on pavers, light fixtures, gates, posters, tables and chairs.

Outdoor at Basso, a few yards from the alley. (Photo/JC Martin)

Basso’s landlord, Jim Randel, favors the idea.

But, Basso says, Mel Mioli, the landlord of 46 Post Road East — the building on the west side of the alley — has no interest in participating. He denied a request to string lights on the side of his structure.

Mioli told “06880” that he is concerned about safety. More pedestrians using a more attractive passageway might increase his liability in the event of an accident.

However, the idea still seems like a no-brainer (unless you’re not worried about getting brained walking on the path).

Come on, Westport. Time to rally for the alley!

(Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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Posted in Downtown, Local business, Restaurants

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Cool Pizza Oven, Hot Westport Spot

Posted on February 3, 2025 | 5 comments

Looking for Westport’s coolest pizza oven?

Start with sushi.

Then take a trip to tapas.

You’ll wind up at Basso. And there — at the far end of the bar, in one of Westport’s most historic restaurant buildings — you’ll see a pizza oven like back in old Napoli.

Basso’s pizza oven, at the back of the bar.

For 50 years after its construction in 1916, the property facing Jesup Green was the back of the Fine Arts movie theater.

In the 1960s it was converted into Fine Arts III. The theaters closed in 1999.

Pizza Inferno moved in, for a couple of uneventful years. It’s barely remembered today. But the owners’ pizza oven is their legacy.

Matsu Sushi took over in 2002. Its dishes were popular — but none were made in a pizza oven. The one that Pizza Inferno had installed — copper-sheathed and handsome, 28 feet high, half-wood and half-gas — was used for storage.

Renato Donzelli moved his Basso restaurant from Norwalk to Westport in late 2020. He doubled his space, and added outside dining. The high ceiling — a remnant of the movie theater days — was perfect for a second-floor space.

The view from the 2nd floor.

Regular customers looked forward to Renato’s contemporary, inventive menu, with many popular tapas and paellas. It leans on Spain and Italy, with hints of Latin fusion.

But for Renato — who was born in Venezuela, but raised in Naples — discovering the long-unused pizza oven was the secret sauce for success.

First however, he had to make it work.

No one in Connecticut knew how to repair the oven’s complicated mechanics. Renato found an older man in New York City (“with a thick Italian accent,” says Ela Benedetto, Basso’s general manager).

Renato then brought in a scaffold. He polished the copper by hand, turning it from black to golden-brown.

COVID still raged. But guests flocked to the new restaurant. Four years later, it remains one of Westport’s most popular spots.

On a good day, Basso sells up to 25 pizzas. Yet many customers have no idea they’re on the menu.

Or — trust me — how spectacularly good they are.

And how quickly they come out of the 1,000-degree oven. It takes less than 5 minutes, from kneading the dough to pulling a piping-hot pie out from its depths.

Pizza-making the Neapolitan way.

Basso’s pizzas are (naturally) Neapolitan. Creating those pies is an art. (Neapolitan pizza-making is included on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.)

The Caputo flour — which gives its distinctive doughiness and firm body — comes from Italy.

Basso’s pizza makers aerate the dough by hand, on a traditional wood box. There’s not much sauce. Artisanal toppings — sausage, peppers, meatballs, chorizo — are made fresh daily.

The pizza must be placed just so in the oven, and turned correctly a couple of times. In just 3 minutes, it’s done.

Mangia!

As exciting and flavorful as the rest of the menu is, it’s easy to overlook Basso’s pizzas.

And as stunning as it is, it’s easy to overlook Basso’s back-of-the-bar pizza oven.

Don’t. In one of Westport’s historic buildings, this bit of culinary history sizzles.

(Basso’s pizzas come in large and small sizes, with gluten-free and vegan options. Delivery is available for $3.99. Click here for menus and more information.)

(Readers dine out on “06880”‘s restaurant coverage. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our hyper-local work. Thank you!)

5 Comments

Posted in Looking back, Restaurants

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Pics Of The Day #1579

Posted on August 14, 2021 | 1 comment

Restaurant scenes: Basso …

… and Amis (Photos/JC Martin)

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Posted in Downtown, Pic of the Day, Restaurants

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Roundup: Pauli’s Bagels, St. Paddy’s Catering, Sybil’s List, More

Posted on February 14, 2021 | 7 comments

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Bagels are back in the mini-strip mall next to Five Guys and a nail salon.

Bagel Maven closed last winter. The space is now filled by Pauli’s Deli & Bagels. It’s the second Pauli’s; the original is in Norwalk.

In addition to bagels and deli sandwiches, Pauli’s serves plenty of breakfast items, and coffee.

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Is it too early to think about St. Patrick’s Day?

Not if you’re a caterer.

Alison Milwe Grace — one of Fairfield County’s favorite chefs — has already planned her mid-March menu. She features tempting appetizers; corned beef and cabbage with roasted potatoes, roasted carrots and horseradish mustard, and Guinness Shepherd’s Pie.

For dessert: cupcakes with Irish cream frosting; Irish bread pudding with whiskey caramel sauce; Irish coffee crème brûlée, and Bailey’s chocolate mousse.

Of course, if it’s St. Paddy’s Day, Passover and Easter are not far behind.

Alison has menus for those too. Click here to see.

Alison Milwe Grace: catering, 2021-style.

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Carole Schweid appreciated a recent “06880” story about the law that business owners clear snow from their sidewalks.

But, she writes: “Riverside Barber Shop has done nothing to clear their sidewalks 

“It’s on the corner of Riverside, Treadwell and Saugatuck Avenues. There is nowhere to stand — except in the street.

“You cannot reach the button for the light to help cross the street, due to the snow. This is one of the most dangerous corners in Westport, where 3 busy streets merge.

“Every other business in the neighborhood — a place where people walk, due to the restaurants, etc. — has cleared their sidewalks.

“When I asked them to do something to make the corner safer by clearing a path, the woman who works there turned her back and walked away.”

The corner of Riverside, Treadwell and Saugatuck Avenues, at Riverside Barber Shop. (Photo/Carole Schweid)

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For years, Westporters have relied on Sybil Steinberg’s curated reading list.

It’s never more needed than during a pandemic.

Now, the longtime Westporter — a contributing editor and former book review section editor for Publishers Weekly — returns with ideas for winter reading.

Click here for Sybil’s exclusive recommendations, courtesy of the Westport Library.

Or click below, for the video version:

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Speaking of reading: Westport author Christian Hunter’s new book has just been published.

“Influence” is the story of a young woman’s journey from Venezuela to the United States, where she and her family come to grips with the disappearance of her father. Her mission is to find him, and become what she has always dreamed of: a celebrity.

Click below to learn more:

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Among the approvals at Thursday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting:

  • Conversion of the former Steinway piano store at 499 Post Road East (next to the fire station), to use by Bespoke Auto Hause for an automobile storage garage for privately owned cars.
  • Live music at Basso restaurant, on Jesup Road.

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And finally … Danny Ray died earlier this month in Georgia, at 85.

You may not have known his name. But if you saw James Brown perform, you probably saw “the hardest-working man in show business” being led away after putting everything into a song. Then he threw away his cape, returned to the stage, and gave the audience even more. Over and over again.

Danny Ray was that man. He was also the man who introduced the Godfather of Soul at his concerts.

When James Brown died in 2006, Danny Ray spoke at his funeral. “Ladies and gentlemen, are you ready for star time?” he asked. Then he draped a cape over the open coffin.

 

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Posted in Library, Local business, Media, Restaurants, Transportation, Weather

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