Tag Archives: Carl Addison Swanson

Roundup: Cans, Downtown Charette, Jodi & Scott …

Posted on August 22, 2023 | 8 comments

On Sunday, Tom Kretsch and his wife Sandi headed to Compo’s South Beach, by the trees near the kayak launch.

A large group of Staples High School students and parents were setting up for an end-of-summer/start-of-school bash.

Not far away Tom saw a woman with a baby on her back, and 2 other kids tagging along. She stopped at every trash can, gathering cans for redemption.

She halted for a bit, to watch the picnic. Someone came over, with pizza for her and her children.

A few minutes later the woman continued walking, and picking through the trash.

(Photos/Tom Kretsch)

“It was quite a contrast, seeing someone scrounging for cans on our beach, and other people enjoying life on the beach,” Tom says.

“I wondered how she got there, with 3 kids and those heavy bags. What a world of haves and have-nots.

I’ve never seen anything like that on Compo Beach. On we journey, counting our blessings.”

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A reminder: Tonight (Tuesday, August 22) is the open house “charrette”: a public review and feedback meeting covering additional plans for the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee’s “Master Plan for Downtown Parking and Pedestrian Areas: Reconnecting the Riverfront.”

Particular focus will be on the Parker Harding Plaza design.

The session begins at 7 p.m. (Westport Library) All residents and downtown stakeholders are invited to attend.

Information on the project is available on the DPIC website. Feedback is welcome in its comments section.

DPIC also conducts regular public meetings, typically the 2nd Thursday of each month at 8:30 a.m.

Parker Harding Plaza cut-through road (left), and Saugatuck River. (Drone photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

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Westport Community Gardens continues its 20th anniversary celebration with another pop-up garden stand.

Everyone is invited to explore the Gardens — and adjacent Long Lots Preserve — and pick up very fresh produce, herbs and flowers this Sunday (August 27, 10 a.m. to noon).

Straight from the Community Gardens. (Photo/Karen Mather)

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The Rhimes girls held a very successful lemonade-and-ice-cream fundraiser for Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services this weekend.

They raised over $4,000 for the great organization (which, many people don’t realize, runs almost entirely on donations).

The feeling of helping a good cause was enough. But the youngsters were rewarded yesterday. President Mike Burns led a personal tour of the facility — and personally thanked the girls.

WVEMS president Mike Burns and EMS member Sammi Henske flank the Rhimes family. (Photo courtesy of Shonda Rhimes)

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James Naughton and Carole Schweid entertained a full house last night.

The “Play With Your Food” creator led the actor/director in a discussion on his life on stage and screen — and as a passionate advocate for Connecticut’s Medical Aid in Dying legislation.

Naughton talked about investing in theater (he’s been quite lucky), his work with Paul Newman, Joanne Woodward and many others, and the joys and frustrations of a life in the arts.

The evening included a screening of the short film “Not the Same Clarence.” The film, featuring Jim and his son Greg Naughton, depicts the realities of caring for a parent with dementia, and its impact on their lives.

The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston sponsored the event.

James Naughton and Carole Schweid. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of acting: Jodi Stevens and Scott Bryce are expanding SBEstudio — their Weston performing arts school — to Saugatuck Congregational Church.

Jodi (a Broadway veteran and voice, singing and acting coach for over 20 years) and Scott (her Emmy-winning producer/director/actor husband, and a former Staplesl Player) offer new programming too, including a spring 6-week film and TV intensive course.

A grand opening is set for this Sunday (August 27, 2 p.m.).

Musical theater group classes and private lessons are available from ages 4-5 (Broadway Beginnings) all the way to 15-18 (Young Professionals). A new Broadway Babies class, for ages 2-3, is in the works.

The Bryce family has a long history with the Saugatuck Church. Scott’s mother Dorothy was deacon emeritus, a founding member of the Interfaith Council of Westport, Weston, Wilton, and a founder of the Theatre Artists Workshop.

Jodi’s scholarship program for talented students without means will continue, under a new name: The SBEstudio Dorothy Bryce Scholarship Fund.

For more information on the Saugatuck Church and Weston programs, click here, email info@sbestudio.com, or call 203-247-6569.

Scott Bryce and Jodi Stevens (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Parents)

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Agent Orange has killed more than 300,000 US military veterans since our country left Vietnam in 1975.

The toll continues to rise.

In his new book “Agent Orange: A Short Sickening Saga of War,” Staples High School graduate/longtime Westport/prolific author Carl Addison Swanson explores the subject.

Amazon calls it “the tragic story of a Vietnam Veteran who, after 50 years of good health, is stricken with a heart disease connected directly to his exposure to the chemical AGENT ORANGE during the war.”

It is available on Kindle. Click here to order, and for more information.

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The last date of lifeguards at Burying Hill Beach is this Thursday (August 24).

Compo Beach lifeguards continue through September 4.

Beach stickers are required through September 30.

Burying Hill Beach lifeguards’ last day is Thursday. (Photo/Yvonne O’Kane)

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Traffic alert: The Department of Public Works’ annual roadway crack seal program begins this Thursday (August 24).

The work will continue for 2 weeks, on 15 miles of roadway. Be alert for 1-way traffic throughout the project.

Crack sealing ahead!

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This week on “What’s Next in Weston,” 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor introduces Carol Baldwin, president of the Friends of Lachat Town Farm.

It’s the first of a 2-part series, covering the programs offered at “The Coachella of Fairfield County.”

The podcast is produced by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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MoCA’s fall exhibition — “Purvis Young: This is the Life I See” — features 36 large scale works by the American “outsider artist.”

This is the first time that the works, from the collection of Lynne and Jack Dodick, have been on public view.

The exhibition open September 15, and runs through December 29. A reception is set for September 14 (6 p.m.; free for members, $10 for non-members. Click here to register.) Advance registration is required.

Purvis Young (1943 – 2010) was a self-taught artist who dealt with the plight of the underprivileged and the consequences of racism and daily violence through a highly distinctive visual style. He lived his entire life in the Miami neighborhood of Overtown, once an entertainment destination as well as a Black neighborhood in the segregated South. Click here for more details.

“Shackled in Blues” (Purvis Young)

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Barry Kresch has spent several months observing nature, up close and personal.

He writes: “A pair of cardinals built a nest in a small tree outside my kitchen window. It was fairly low, so I was able to get some shots into it without disrupting the proceedings.

“I got much of the life cycle: first egg, mom sitting, chicks hatched, dinner is served, junior ready to take wing.

“After they left, I removed the nest. My wife told me they decay and get parasites, so the birds don’t reuse them.

“The same or another nesting pair then repeated the cycle. This time the nest was higher in the tree, not conducive to photos.”

This “life cycle” photo is perfect for our “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Barry Kresch)

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And finally … on this day in 2011 Nick Ashford — half of the husband-and-wife songwriting/production team Ashford & Simpson, and a former Westport resident — died of throat cancer. He was 70 years old.

(Reach out and touch … “06880” with your supporting hand. Please click here to make a contribution. Thank you!)

8 Comments

Posted in Arts, Downtown, Local politics, Weston

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Roundup: Bobcats, Long Lots, Parks & Rec …

Posted on August 1, 2023 | 6 comments

Bobcats have recolonized this area for over a decade. Numerous recent sightings have caused alarm on social media.

According to the Westport Police Department, bobcats are “generally unobtrusive neighbors. They are very focused on finding prey, which primarily consists of rodents like mice, rats, chipmunks, squirrels and rabbits. They also prey upon young or infirm deer.

“Bobcats avoid conflict with humans and pets, but could pose a threat to small, unattended dogs, particularly if the dog were to chase the cat.”

Police recommend close supervision of small pets. Dogs smaller than 35 to 40 pounds can be at risk from coyotes, particularly if the dog is older.

“Bobcats generally retreat from encounters with dogs, but there is potential for a dangerous encounter if the cat is cornered,” police say.

“As we enter late summer, parent coyotes and bobcats leave their denning areas.  Several citizens have seen bobcat kittens and coyote pups playing in their yards. These juvenile animals pose no threat to humans, and they will gradually become more wary of people as they get older.

“Any time you see a coyote or bobcat in your yard, it is advisable to keep your pets indoors for a few hours, then walk the dog on a lead when going out. Bobcats and coyotes typically cover a fair amount of ground each day, and they move on quickly.

“The same hazing strategies used for coyotes (high-decibel storm whistle or air horn) are effective for bobcats. If you are concerned about frequent sightings, or would like more information, contact Westport Animal Control: 203-341-5076.”

Bobcat (Photo/Sean Hogan)

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Tonight’s Long Lots School Building Committee special meeting (Tuesday, August 1, 6 p.m., Town Hall Room 309) begins with public comment and/or questions about the project.

An agenda revision posted yesterday notes that the public comment portion of the agenda will be limited to 15 minutes.

Members then meet for a work session with the design team, for project status updates and review. The public can attend the work session, but cannot participate.

Long Lots Elementary School.

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Seasonal employees — lifeguards, marina staffs and guest services workers — are the summer lifeblood of Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department.

Yesterday evening, those young men and women were treated to a pizza dinner at (appropriately) Compo’s South Beach.

Selectwomen Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore joined department officials in saying “thanks” to the crews that guard the Sound and Longshore pool, greet visitors, and keep our town jewels shining.

Some of the guests at yesterday’s “thank you” party. Parks & Recreation officials included (far left) deputy director Rick Giunta and aquatics director Danilo Sierra-Giraldo and, from far right, waterfront operations foreman Michael Giunta and operations director Carm Roda. (Photo/Dan Woog

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Check out the new “06880” header (the photo at the top of our home page).

The beach sunset/moonrise photo comes courtesy of Chris Harris. Enjoy it below, too:

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A webinar on how to lower energy costs is set for Thursday (August 3, 6 p.m.).

Representatives from the federal Department of Energy and state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will describe a variety of money-saving programs.

The online event is sponsored by Congressman Jim Himes. Click here for the link (visible when the webinar begins).

Need help paying for solar panels? Find out how at Thursday’s webinar.

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Friday’s Tacombi fundraiser for Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services just got even better.

In addition to a sneak peek at the sure-to-be-hot new Mexican restaurant on the Post Road near Southport — and an opportunity to support one of our town’s most important organizations — guests will be entertained by Jake Bernard.

The 2011 Staples High School graduate — known then as Jake Yarmoff — will add his own special touch to the evening.

The event begins at 5:30 p.m. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Jake Bernard

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Speaking of new restaurants: Emmy Squared opens August 21.

The Brooklyn-based restaurant is known for its “Detroit-style pizza”: square, crisp bottom, fluffy dough, cheesy crust and sauce strpes.

Their double-stack burger — served on a pretzel bun — was named one of the “20 Best Burgers in New York” by The Infatuation.

There are 8 location: New York, Nashville, Philadelphia, Washington and Louisville. Number 9 is the site of the now-closed Amis Trattoria, in Bedford Square.

Pizzas from Emmy Squared.

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Speaking of openings:

Tend comes to town tomorrow.

The “national dental provider that promises to make you look forward to the dentist” unveils its first Connecticut location at 1375 Post Road East (next to Ulta Beauty).

It’s the 25th overall in the nation. The dentists also have “studios” in New York, Washington, Boston, Atlanta and Nashville. They launched in 2019.

A press release says: “Tend is a full service dentistry that aims to serve all your oral care needs under one roof — from exams and cleanings to restorative care, oral surgery, orthodontics, cosmetic treatments and more. Tend is technology-driven, which means booking online is seamless, there are no wait times when you arrive because all intake is done digitally and in advance, and they even have an app so you can track your treatment journey at your fingertips.”

Tend works with “most major insurance providers.”

Tend’s Westport location is between Ulta Beauty and Balducci’s.

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Carl Addison Swanson reports that his August Book of the Month — “Fat People Are Harder to Kidnap” — is in its 2nd edition. It’s also been optioned to film.

Click here for all his books. Click the “Hush McCormick” tab for “Fat People.”

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This week’s “This Week in Weston” podcast features two of the town’s 1st Selectwomen.

Elected official Sam Nestor introduces Riley Crafts, the town’s “1st Selectwoman For A Day.” Seven-year-old Riley shares her impressions, experiences and questions about her experience.

Click below to listen to the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston production.

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The sun is out. Joe Carpenter’s scaevola enjoys every ray, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

(Photo/Joe Carpenter)

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And finally … in honor of Tend coming to Westport (story above):

(Horrors! You’ve forgotten to contribute to “06880”! Don’t fear — click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Education, Environment, Local business, Restaurants, Weston

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Roundup: Parade Photos And Floats, Playhouse Plaque …

Posted on May 28, 2023 | 7 comments

The Memorial Day parade is one of Westport’s greatest town events.

Everyone has a favorite spot to watch from. Everyone has a favorite band, float or marcher to photograph.

But why share them only with a few hundred dear pals, casual acquaintances and random how’d-they-get-on-my-list Facebook “friends”?

Tomorrow, let all of Westport see “your” Memorial Day parade. Send a few (not all!) of your photos to “06880” (email: 06880blog@gmail.com). Deadline: 1 p.m. Please include brief identification, if needed, and of course your own name.

I’ll post some (not all!) in the afternoon.

And be creative! We want special photos, for our special parade.

Seen along the Memorial Day parade route.

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Speaking of the Memorial Day parade:

When it comes to float-making, the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston don’t mess around.

Every year, they spend hours designing, building and enhancing their creation. Every year, the crowd along the route is awed.

And every year, the Y’s Men win the “Best Float” award.

They also always hand out fliers, describing what they’ve built. This year it says:

The Y’s Men honor the military doctors, nurses, corpsmen and medics who have served on the front line saving lives. The float depicts a field hospital at the battle front. It represents the concept of forward surgical hospitals – bringing medical support to the frontlines. That idea can be traced back to the Napoleonic Wars, and translated to the mobile units used from World War I through the Iraq War.

Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals (MASH) were defined in the popular mind as a part of the Korean War (1950-1953) because of the book, movie and television series of the same name. Numbering at times about 8 percent of total active-duty strength, men and women in the medical corps are dedicated to saving lives.

But they too can become casualties. In World War II, for example, 5,000 physicians, 9,000 medical workers, and 48,000 aid and stretcher men were killed or lost in action.

We give our thanks to these lifesaving professionals who made the ultimate sacrifice and to those who returned to civilian life to provide their medical expertise to serve the Westport community. We honor them and every member of the armed forces dedicated to protecting freedom and liberty for all.

Y’s Men master builder and designer Roy McKay directs the assembly of this year’s Memorial Day float. (Photo/Larry Lich)

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Speaking of the Y’s Men: They’ve got a new president.

Baxter Urist handed the reins recently to Dewey Loselle. The longtime member has served Westport in many capacities, including town operations director.

Baxter Urist (left) and Dewey Loselle. (Photo/Tom Lowrie)

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The Westport Country Playhouse Sheffer Studio was filled yesterday, for the town’s first-ever Literary Landmark dedication.

A plaque honoring Lawrence Langner — founder, with his wife Armina Marshall — of the Westport Country Playhouse in 1931 — was unveiled at the gazebo.

Literary Landmarks is a program of the American Library Association’s Friends’ arm. The Langner honor was sponsored by the Westport Library.

Langner and Marshall’s son, granddaughter and great-granddaughters attended the ceremony, along with many town and theater luminaries.

A panel discussed the importance of the Playhouse in American theater history. All agreed: It was profound.

This is only the 6th Literary Landmark in Connecticut. Among the other honorees: Harriet Beecher Stowe and Mark Twain.

The Lawrence Langner plaque was unveiled, after the covering — a piece of the original curtain — was removed. At the ceremony were Langner’s son Philip (front) and, standing from left: Westport Library director Bill Harmer; Philip Langner’s daughter Eve and granddaughters Brielle and Lauren; Playhouse honorary trustee Ann Sheffer; 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Was it a huge bust yesterday on Compo Road South? The end of a wild traffic chase?

Nope.

Just a few police cars, lined up to buy lemonade at a stand set up by a couple of Westport kids.

Alex and Ava O’Brien were raising money for the Connecticut Humane Society. The men in blue were happy to oblige.

The Westport Fire Department also stopped by.

Alex and Ava made the lemonade by hand-squeezing 82 lemons. It took 3 hours yesterday morning.

All told, they made $467 for the Human Society — more than double their first effort last year. Congratulations, Alex and Ava. And thanks to all who stopped by! (Hat tip: Heidi McGee)

 

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Back in the day, Carl Swanson and Jo Ann Miller had a hot tub outside.

It cracked every winter. Jo Ann decided to make a “Jackson Pollack abstract” out of the concrete slab.

Now, any kid who comes over is invited to throw paint on the surface.

The sculpture in the middle is by Westport artist Kelly Spearen. Both it and the abstract art are quite valuable.

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Of course, it wouldn’t be a holiday without a photo of Jolantha, Weston’s favorite pig:

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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Andrew Colabella’s vivid photo of a bumblebee in mid-pollinating flight, at his Greens Farms garden, shimmers as today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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And finally … you may not have heard of Pete Brown, who died last week in England at 82, of cancer. (Click here for a full obituary.)

But he wrote some songs you may know, primarily for Cream. Among them:

(Having a great Memorial Day weekend? “06880” brings you all the Westport news — even on holidays. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Westport Country Playhouse, Westport life

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Roundup: Tutti’s, Kugel, Newman & Redford …

Posted on August 19, 2022 | 2 comments

A man with a big heart needs a new one.

And one of Westport’s most big-hearted restaurants is helping.

Jimmy Nuzzo — known to many as “DJ Jimmy Jams” — was born with a congenital heart defect. After open-heart surgery at age 7, he lived a healthy life for years. He owns Dance to the Music Entertainment, and is a loving husband and father.

Now he needs a new heart — and liver.

Jimmy Nuzzo (3rd from left), with his family.

On Sunday, August 28 (4 to 7 p.m.), Tutti’s on Riverside Avenue is offering a $25 penne with meatball dinner — large enough to feed 2 people. It’s to-go (and cash) only. 100% of the proceeds go to help Jimmy.

Mangia!

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Speaking of dining (though a different cuisine):

Chabad of Westport hosts “Kugel with a Twist” (September 7, 7 p.m.).

The Nosher editor Shannon Sarna Goldberg and Connecticut food blogger Liz Arronson Rueven will chat about modern takes on Jewish comfort food.

It’s free, and open to the community. However, attendees are asked to bring one kosher item (dried fruit, raisins, dates, nuts, tomato/spaghetti sauce, cereals, oatmeal, jelly, canned tuna, ketch, mustard, mayo, vegetable/corn oil) to stock Chabad’s mobile kosher food pantry, to arrive this fall.

Anyone donating $180 to held fight food insecurity will receive a signed copy of Sarna’s “Modern Jewish Comfort Food.”

Click here to register, and for more details.

Eat!

Kugel

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Longtime Westporters Carl Addison Swanson and his editor Jo Ann Miller have just published their 54th book,

It details Swanson’s experiences — some fictional — during his 1969 Vietnam tour. tour.

“365 Days and a Wake-up” is “not your normal war novel with blood, guts and gore,” Swanson says.

“I was watching ‘M*A*S*H,’ the movie, on late night TV, and remembered some of the humorous things, amidst the insanity, of events which occurred. I attempted to capture them.”

Swanson, known for his fast-paced, plot-driven narratives as well as his prolific publications, owns a Bermuda publishing house, and is a senior editor at a national magazine.

“365 Days” is available Labor Day. The hardback version follows in mid-October. Click here to order. Click here for Swanson’s website.

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Paul Newman has been in the news lately.

The actor/car racer/philanthropist died in 2008, but his life in Westport with Joanne Woodward is featured in the CNN/HBO film “The Last Movie Stars.”

Arthur Klausner sends along a recent Tweet that “stars” Newman’s friend, Robert Redford. In the clip from 1980, the former Weston resident recalls a long-running practical joke the two men played on each other, involving melted-own automobiles and their homes.

https://twitter.com/MichaelWarbur17/status/1560174346978615296

Arthur wonders how long the “garden sculpture” remained at Newman’s North Avenue home.

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The Levitt Pavilion has just added a new ticketed show.

Orebolo — featuring Rick Mitarotonda, Peter Anspach and Jeff Arevalo of Goose — take the stage on September 7 (7 p.m.).

The trio has built a national following nationwide. Formed during the initial COVID surge, they shared a home. They learned new covers, and explored Goose’s deep catalog acoustically.

Tickets are $15 (members) and $18 (non-members, plus a $2 facility fee). Member pre-sale is active now; public tickets are available Monday (August 22) at noon. Click here to order, and for more information.

Orebolo

In other Levitt news, an opening band has been added to this Sunday’s (August 21, 6:30 p.m.) Allison Russell ticketed show.

She hand-picked Bailen, after opening with them at the Edmonton Folk Fest. Children under 12 are free (with an adult in the BYO-lawn chair section).

As for Allison: she released a new single yesterday, featuring Brandi Carlile:

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Also this weekend: a pair of Friends of Sherwood Island State Park programs.

Tomorrow (August 20, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.), 2 interns with a big net will set up on the beach across from the Nature Center. They’ll show how many creatures they can pull out of Long Island Sound.

On Sunday (August 21, 2 to 3:30 p.m.), butterfly expert Michele Sorensen will lead a walk. She’ll start at the Nature Center porch, then explore nearby gardens and dunes for a variety of species. Buckeyes, swallowtails, sulphurs, fritillaries, monarchs, skippers and pearl crescents are all possible. It’s suitable for ages 5 and up.

Click here for more information.

Monarch butterfly (Photo/Tammy Barry)

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Native Westporter and Pepperidge Farm manager Agnes “Aggie” Veno died peacefully last week, with her family by her side. She was 67.

Aggie was passionate about arts and crafts, and participated in craft fairs throughout Fairfield County. She was especially good at crocheting. She was also an excellent cook and baker, who enjoyed gatherings with her extended family.

She was an avid volunteer at St. Luke Church too.

She is survived by her mother Marie, sister Joann (Steve) Porch, godson Nicholas Vena, Jr., and many cousins, including Sadye Bella Bustillo, who had a special place in her heart. In addition to her father Andrew, she was predeceased by her brother, Andrew J. Veno, Jr.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held today (Friday, August 19, 10 a.m., St. Luke Church). Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery in Greens Farms.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. To send an online condolence, click here.

Aggie Veno

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One more rainbow photo from last night — this one perfect for “Westport … Naturally.”

Koda lives on Soundview Drive. But he’s a frequent visitor to Old Mill Grocery, around the corner.

(Photo/Karalyn Hood)

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And finally … in honor of last night’s beauty, enjoyed by Koda (and many “06880” photographers):

(To share a pot of gold — or just a few pennies — with “06880,” please click here. Support for this blog is greatly appreciated!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Media, Obituaries, religion, Restaurants

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Roundup: Harry Styles, James Corden & Staples …

Posted on May 31, 2022 | 7 comments

The other day, James Corden and Harry Styles set out on the streets of Brooklyn. They were searching apartments for a location to shoot a music video Styles’ new album. They had just 3 hours to do it.

Luckily, they found Hadley Ward, Isabel Perry and Caroline McKenchnie. All are 2015 Staples High School grads, living together. (Katie Settos — another roommate — was away.)

The British duo sure found the right people. The apartment was decorated with photos of both Styles and Corden, to their delight (and the young women’s slight embarrassment).

It’s a great video — even without the Westport connection. With it, this becomes an instant classic.

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The great vibe from yesterday’s Memorial Day parade still lingers.

The winners of the float contest are feeling particularly good. Congratulations to:

  • Best Youth Organization Float: Suzuki Music School
  • Best Community Organization Float: Westport Old Fire Truck
  • Most Colorful Float: VFW Auxiliary #399
  • Special Pep Award: Junior Colonial Fife & Drum Corps.

And the winner for Best Overall Float is …

… I can’t believe there’s even any suspense …

… the Y’s Men of Westport/Weston.

Their float honored Mary Pickersgill, Francis Scott Key and the national anthem.

I’ll have to check the records, but I think the Y’s Men have won Best Overall Float every year since Francis Scott Key was hanging out at Fort McHenry.

The Y’s Men’s float. You can’t see it in the photo, but there was “smoke,” reminiscent of the 1814 battle that inspired Francis Scott Key to write our national anthem. (photo/Dan Woog)

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Not to raise a big stink, but an “06880” reader sent this photo:

The reader sent a note, too: “I would like to acknowledge the anonymous donor/s who selflessly, when no one was looking, left the precious doggie gift, wrapped by the side of Valley Road.”

Another photo — not suitable for a public blog — was left “unwrapped” at the end of the reader’s driveway.

“But really,” the reader adds, “you shouldn’t have.”

The reader added this suggestion: a database of each dog’s DNA, included as part of the dog license. “The mere existence of such a database would immediately put an end to this behavior,” the reader says.

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Carl Addison Swanson’s latest book, “Ipso Facto” — another in his Ian Fletcher legal thriller series — has just been published.

There’s another Westport angle, besides the author being a Staples High School graduate: It’s based on a notorious murder case here, from the 1960s.

The Amazon listing says: “When a hedge fund billionaire is murdered in a tony suburb of Connecticut, the handyman Black is the first to be arrested. Blue blood attorney Ian Fletcher to the rescue?”

Swanson has written over 50 books. In addition to the Fletcher novels, they include the Hush McCormick series, Tug Christian thrillers, Scooter mysteries and Justin Carmichael nostalgic memoirs. Click here for his website.

Click here to order “Ipso Facto” from Amazon.

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Aspetuck Land Trust daisies provide a pop of color for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … I first heard of Ronnie Hawkins when I saw “The Last Waltz.”

But the Arkansas-born rockabilly artist — who spent most of his life in Canada, and influenced generations of musicians with his outsized, energetic music and performing style, and was a friend of Bill Cliinton’s — led quite a life beyond The Band.

He died Sunday, at 87. Click here for a full obituary.

7 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Media, Staples HS

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Roundup: Aid In Dying, Learn A Trade, Carl Swanson’s Books …

Posted on February 12, 2022 | 10 comments

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Lynda Shannon Bluestein is a longtime member — and former board chair — of the Unitarian Church in Westport.

She just published a very moving piece in The CT Mirror, on medical aid in dying.

The 2-time cancer survivor writes: “I simply want the right to have a say in the timing and manner of my death when I reach the point where my disease or the pain and suffering it causes robs me of the quality of life that is essential to me.”

Click here for the full, enlightening story. (Hat tip: Steve Axthelm)

Lynda Shannon Bluestein (Photo courtesy of The CT Mirror)

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As Build Back Better infrastructure funds begin flowing, skilled workers in a variety of trades will be needed. The Connecticut Department of Transportation alone is looking for 100 people, especially those with commercial drivers licenses. They can’t find them.

High school juniors and seniors — and recent graduates — interested in on-the-job training and real-life work experiences in a variety of trades have until February 18 to register for a special program, which can propel them into successful, well-paying careers.

The Staples High Guidance Department has partnered with Trumbull High School to offer the free Connecticut Pre-Apprenticeship High School Training program.

Students gain experience, and learn how to apply as an apprentice, in unions for carpenters, electricians, iron workers, road and highway laborers and operating engineers.

Certification can be earned in OSHA 10-Hour, flagger, and CPR/First Aid/AED.

Program graduates are eligible for notification of employment opportunities, resume reviews and interview preparation.

For more information, click here and here. Questions? Contact Staples guidance counselor Vicki Capozzi (vcapozzi@westportps.org) or Trish Howells (phowells@westportps.org).

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Carl Addison Swanson has written over 50 books, including the Hush McCormick series, Tug Christian thrillers, Scooter mysteries, Ian Fletcher legal series and Justin Carmichael nostalgic memoirs.

You can find them all at his website. Or you can find many — for free — at the Westport Bookcycle, outside Local to Market on the Main Street/Parker Harding corner.

But be kind. Be like Carl. When you pick up a book, try to give one in return.

(Photo/Carl Addison Swanson)

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The Westport Country Playhouse has new policies for all visitors.

Starting March 1, everyone 18 and older must show proof of 2 doses of the COVID vaccine, or one of Johnson & Johnson — plus the booster.

And as of now, everyone 5 to 17 years old must show proof of 2 doses of the vaccine. Everyone under 5 must be accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult, and provide a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before the performance.

Masks must be worn at all times, with N95 and KN95 masks strongly encouraged. The Playhouse may ask audience members to double mask, with a surgical mask provided by the theater.

The Playhouse says, “We are aware that mask requirements are being lifted in some communities. But please note that Actors’ Equity requires that actors perform only at theaters where audiences are required to wear masks.

“Thank you for working with us to keep our community safe, especially for those who are most vulnerable. We will continue to follow the science and anticipate our guidelines will change as conditions change. We recommend that you check our website for the current policy before every visit to the Playhouse.”

Mask up before entering the famed venue,

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ᐧFor a while, Marie Gross has noticed a pair of bald eagles sitting in the same tree overlooking the Saugatuck River, across from Saugatuck Elementary School.

A couple of days ago, she snapped this “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Marie Gross)

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And finally … on this day in 1809, Abraham Lincoln was born. Today is also Georgia Day, a commemoration of the colony’s founding in 1733.

Put the two together, and you get …

10 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Education, Media, religion, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Sidewalk Clearing, Ellen Naftalin, Carl Addison Swanson …

Posted on January 8, 2022 | 8 comments

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Molly Alger writes:

“About 5 hours after the snow had stopped falling yesterday, it was very treacherous being a pedestrian on Post Road.

“I stopped in a couple of businesses and asked why their sidewalks had not been cleared. No excuses were forthcoming other than, ‘Someone is supposed to do it.’ This is extremely disappointing — not to mention hazardous.”

Molly sent along a series of photos of un-shoveled sidewalks. Here is one:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

A reminder: According to WestportCT.gov, “Per town ordinance, businesses are responsible for keeping all sidewalks along their property clear of snow and ice.”

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It’s been many months in the making. But Ellen Naftalin’s “Art of the Album” exhibit is open, at the Westport Library’s Jesup Gallery. Put a mask on, and go!

On display is album cover art from remarkable women artists from the 1920s through ’60s. From the Depression and World War II to the civil rights and women’s movements, they broke the glass ceiling and the color barrier.

Naftalin and her husband Mark — a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band — dug through their personal, vast collection of LPs. Now they share them with the rest of us.

Every album cover — plus and the sign with Sister Rosetta Tharpe (“The Godmother of Rock and Roll”) has a QR code. Visitors can admire the art — and listen to each artist.

Naftalin’s exhibit is the second in a series. Another is planned for spring.

Part of Ellen Naftalin’s “Art of the Album” exhibit.

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Speaking of the Library: “Cart-side service” is now available weekdays (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Saturdays (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) at the Westport Library. Books, DVDs, CDs, audiobooks, and children’s toys and kits are available for pickup.

Anyone with a Westport or CT Library card registered with the Westport Library can use the service. However, requests can take up to 4 days to be fulfilled

Click here or call 203-291-4807 to request items (up to 10 per library card). You will receive an email or phone call when the items are ready. Call the number above when you plan to come; items will be placed on the cart in the library (just inside the main upper entrance) for pickup.

This replaces the previous “curbside” service. Click here for more information.

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There’s never a dull moment with Carl Addison Swanson. The Staples High School graduate has written 51 (!) novels, including the highly acclaimed Hush McCormick series, Tug Christian thrillers, Scooter mysteries, Ian Fletcher legal series, Justin Carmichael nostalgic memoirs, and more. Five works have been optioned to the film industry.

Carl’s latest is “Never a Dull Moment: Spring of 1966.”

Amazon’s teaser says: “One’s last two 2 semesters of high school can be rough, but even worse when there is never a dull moment.”

Click here to order.

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Westport’s feathered creatures know how to fend for themselves in foul weather. Of course, a bit of help from humans never hurts. Wendy Crowther snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo right after yesterday’s snow.

(Photo/Wendy Crowther)

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And finally … Inez Foxx’s “Mockingbird” is one of the album covers in Ellen Naftalin’s Westport Library exhibit (above). Here’s the song behind the artwork:

8 Comments

Posted in Arts, Downtown, Entertainment, Library, Weather

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Carl Swanson’s Cautionary Tale

Posted on November 13, 2021 | 24 comments

In the summer of 1955, 7-year-old Westporter Carl Addison Swanson had $12.34 in earnings, from his summer landscaping business.

His father marched him down to Southport Savings — a bank later purchased by People’s — to open a savings account.

Carl had his eye on a new baseball mitt. It did not happen. “Depression parents and all?” he wonders today.

Some 61 years later (and still a People’s Bank client), Swanson learned that an investment firm’s error (someone entered the wrong account number) resulted in the transfer of $28,000 from his checking account, to one of the firm’s clients.

People’s fixed the error relatively quickly (about 2 weeks).

But Swanson’s banking woes were not over.

In mid-August, he put a $10,000 check in his mail box to pay his credit card bill.

It never reached Chase. Instead it ended up in someone’s individual account, in a local TD bank.

The FBI, police, US Postal Service, People’s Bank and The Hartford (homeowner’s) insurance company have all tried to get restitution. It still has not happened.

Swanson — himself an attorney — says, “The banks have gotten too big to fail and to serve their customers. Bigger is not always better.”

24 Comments

Posted in Local business

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“06880” Salutes Our Veterans

Posted on November 11, 2021 | 12 comments

“This is a special day in our house,” says Staples High School graduate, longtime Westporter — and Vietnam veteran — Carl Addison Swanson.

It should be a special day for every American.

It’s not. For many, it’s just another day at work or school.

To remind us of the importance of Veterans Day, Swanson shared a few photos with “06880.”

They span various years, and different branches of the US military.

They show Westporters, and other veterans Swanson knows and admires.

Look carefully at their faces. Wonder about their stories. Appreciate their service.

Most importantly, thank a veteran for his or her service today.

And every day.

12-year-old Kelly Spearen (right), with his father. After graduating from Staples High School, Kelly served a helicopter tour in Vietnam.

Col. John Glenn — a family friend of Carl Addison Swanson and his wife Joann — after orbiting the earth 3 times.

Marine Lt. Gen. Thomas H. Miller — Carl Addison Swanson’s father-in-law — in 1960.

12 Comments

Posted in History

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Roundup: Kayak Thefts, Hurricane Ida, School Calendar …

Posted on September 3, 2021 | 11 comments

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Kayak threats from Compo Beach — first reported on “06880” in July — continue.

Mousumi Ghosh is the latest victim. Her red Eddyline Equinox is gone from the storage area. She writes:

“We are devastated. It was one of the few recreations that we were able to enjoy as a family during the last year, not to mention the cost to replace it.

“I was away for a month for a family emergency. It could have happened any time during August.

“From speaking with others, I am discovering that this is not an isolated event. Many believe that crime is on the rise at the beach. Neither the police nor Parks & Rec are hopeful that the kayak can be recovered, or that there is much they can do to help.”

If anyone sees it (the rack emblem is #39), please call Westport Police. Meanwhile, another victim contacted “06880,” suggested security cameras. They’re installed elsewhere at the beach already. Perhaps it’s time to extend their range.

Kayak racks at Compo Beach. They look lovely — but they’re not secure. (Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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Among Wednesday night’s Hurricane Ida flood victims: The Toy Post.

The store at 180 Post Road East (near Imperial Avenue) has no flood insurance. They’re offering 50% off anything wet. (Hat tip: Jonathan Alloy)

Part of The Toy Post’s flood.

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Sure, you can have a January-to-December calendar. But in Westport — where the rhythm of life is attuned to the school year — you really need the Public Schools’ September-to-September version.

Plus, it’s decorated with artwork by local students, from kindergarten through 12th grade. Some very impressive stuff there!

And: It’s a fundraiser, for the Westport Public Art Collections. Paintings, photos and more hang in every school and municipal building in town.

Click here, then scroll down to order. The cost is $20 (pick up) or $23 (mail). It’s available too at ASF, Colonial Druggists, and the Westport Library.

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For many years, the small shop on Maple Avenue South was Mario & Mike’s barber. Then it became Bill’s. After that, Salon Juljen.

Now it’s vacant. A sign says they’ve moved to Southport. No word on whether a new hair place — or some other business — will move in to the mixed commercial-residential building. (Hat tip: Chris Grimm)

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It’s been 2 years since CLASP Homes’ last in-person, inside event.

But the Westport organization — which serves people and families with autism and developmental disabilities — is returning to live fundraising in a big, fun way.

Band Central brings the best of Motown and soul to a benefit concert (October 15, 6:30 p.m. Fairfield Theatre, Company).

Click here for tickets, and more information. To volunteer, email rhammond@clasphomes.org.

In other CLASP news: Throughout September, the Westport Book Shop will exhibit the works of 4 participants in its art program. The used book store is on Jesup Road, across the green from the library.

CLASP art, at the Westport Book Shop.

 

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Another organization serving people with disabilities — STAR Lighting the Way — has good news too.

A grant from the Drew Friedman Arts Center will help them provide art classes to people with intellectual and developmental differences. The 6-week sessions cover a range of mediums — including photography, watercolor, acrylics, collage, dance, improvisation, acting and more — and engage local artists.

Some have already begun, at One River Art School in Westport.

Artists — including Drew Friedman Arts Center director Miggs Burroughs (far right) and STAR officials.

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Carl Addison Swanson’s 49th book has just been published. And it’s already been optioned by HBO.

A husband whose wife dies after a botched birth delivery stalks the guilty doctors and nurses — slowly and methodically.

Click here to order, and for more information.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows a praying mantis. Peggy Lehn spotted 2 of the cool-but-creepy-looking creatures on her garage.

(Photo/Peggy Lehn)

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And finally … today is the 80th anniversary of the birth of Tompall Glaser.

Though less well known than his fellow country “outlaw” singers Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter, he had quite a career before dying in 2013.

Among my favorites: this decidedly tongue in cheek tune from 1976.

11 Comments

Posted in Arts, Beach, Education, Entertainment, Local business

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