Tag Archives: CT United ride

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

Posted on September 7, 2025 | 7 comments

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

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

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Two new restaurants open officially on Tuesday.

Both will crush it.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dandelion, last night. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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From beets to bread.

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

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

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

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

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

And they’re not just for kids.

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

Click here to see what’s up at WTF.

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

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

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

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

To learn more about Aspetuck Land Trust, click here. 

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

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

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

Homes with Hope volunteers, with their bounty.

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

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

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

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Congratulations, Constance Lake!

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

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

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

Connie Walsh

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

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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

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

 

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Roundup: Dandelion Restaurant, Motorcycle Ride, Rosenwaks Interview …

Posted on September 6, 2025 | 1 comment

Dandelion is ready to sprout, as our town’s next hot destination.

The restaurant inside the new Delamar Westport hotel previewed its stuff Thursday and Friday. There’s a private party tonight. Dandelion opens to the public on Tuesday (dinner only, at first).

The public will be very impressed.

From the stunning, ESH-ish design with a soaring ceiling and plenty of color, to the creative and very tasty Mediterranean menu — along with meticulous attention to small details, and an attractive, large bar — Dandelion will fill both a culinary niche, and a social one.

Hotel restaurants are seldom destinations for non-guests. This one will be.

It’s hard to describe the vibe that attendees felt during previews. But word of mouth will spread. Reservations will fill quickly.

Yet unlike dandelions in spring, this place continue to grow — beautifully — a long time.

Dandelion, before the first guests arrive. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Tomorrow’s (Sunday) CT United motorcycle ride will impact travel on Riverside Avenue, Wilton Road — and cross streets — from Exit 17 to the Wilton line.

The event — paying tribute to the victims and first responders of 9/11 — is the largest motorcycle ride in the state.

It begins around 11:30 a.m. at Sherwood Island State Park. Hundreds of riders head south on I-95; take Exit 17, and then proceed to Wilton, and on through 7 towns before ending in Bridgeport.

The route is closed and continuous. With the assistance of a police escort, motorcyclists drive through traffic lights and do not stop at stop signs.

Drivers should expect extended traffic delays along the route — potentially 45 minutes or longer. Alternate routes are recommended.

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

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Yesterday’s “06880” Instagram Live interview with 1st selectman candidate David Rosenwaks went off — finally — without a technical hitch.

Nearly 200 followers tuned in, offering questions and comments as I spoke with the Independent Party candidate.

Topics ranged from his backgroudn and Westport activities, to his views on the biggest issues facing the town, and possible solutions.

Click here or below to see the interview.

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Connecticut households pay nearly twice the U.S. average for electricity.

But there’s help. Sustainable Westport offers resources to lower costs, and strengthen energy resilience and efficiency.

They include the new HeatSmart Westport program, and getting a Home Energy Solutions audit to take advantage of 30% federal tax credits for solar and battery storage, or rebates on electric vehicles and chargers.

Click here for a complete guide. Click here to read why Connecticut’s energy bills are so high.

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Speaking of the environment: On Thursday Morgan Veltri — who works in Westport, and is a 2025 graduate of East Stroudsburg University, with a degree in environmental studies — gave a talk at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center about spotted lanternflies.

She discussed how to recognize the invasive species, their impact, reporting, and prevention and management.

If you missed it — no problem. Just click here for her very informative slide show, and more information.

Morgan Veltri and …

… a spotted lanternfly.

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Speaking still of the environment: Oliver Nurseries hosts an “Autumn Evening in the Garden” (September 20, 5:30 p.m.), featuring Daniel and Brittany Moreno of Kneads Bakery.

Centered around “the intersection of food, nature and community,” the event includes seasonal food and drink, speakers, and a chance to experience the nursery’s grounds during the low light of the change of season.

Suzanne Lenzer will prepare recipes from her new release. Also on hand: James Calcagnini (mushroom farmer, forager and educator), and representatives from nOURish Bridgeport, the first non-profit hydroponic facility in the state.

Tickets are $150. Proceeds help nOURish Bridgeport bring fresh, healthy, local produce to food insecure residents. Email trish@olivernurseries.com to reserve a spot.

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Bigelow Teas — the “Constant Comment” company founded by a Westport family — is headquartered in Fairfield.

But for decades they’ve given back to our town, and the rest of Fairfield County.

The 38th annual Bigelow Tea Community Challenge (September 27, Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, Southport) is a great way for others to give back, too.

The day includes a 5K run and 2-mile walk (10 a.m.), plus a kids’ fun run (9 a.m.). There’s a “virtual run/walk” option too.

Registration includes a goodie bag and raffle ticket.

Last year’s event raised over $182,000 for a variety of local organizations. This year’s list includes the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, Mercy Learning Center, Cardinal Shehan Center, Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County, Center for Family Justice, Connecticut Food Bank, Caroline House, Bridgeport Rescue Mission, Norma Pfriem Breast Center, CT Challenge, Horizons at Greens Farms Academy and Pivot Ministries.

Click here to register, and for more information.

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A new school year has begun. So the next meeting of the Westport Book Shop’s Short Story Club (September 25, 6 p.m.) will focus on 3 stories about teachers and students.

  • “Prime” by Caoilinn Hughes
  • “A Way with Bea” by Shanteka Sigers
  • “Biology” by Kevin Wilson.

All are available at the Westport Library for printout, at the Book Shop in hard copy to borrow, or online. “Prime” is at granta.com; “Biology” at thesouthernreview.org; a reading of “A Way with Bea” can be heard on a symphonyspace.org Selected Shorts 2023 podcast.

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

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We get a lot of sunset photos, for both our “Pic of the Day” and “Westport … Naturally.”

Sunrises — not so many. (It might have to do with the difference between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.)

But here’s a nice early morning shot, from Sherwood Island State Park:

(Photo/Todd Ehrlich)

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And finally … on this date in 1997, Elton John sang a new version of his 1973 song, “Candle in the Wind,” at the funeral of his friend, Princess Diana. Originally written to honor Marilyn Monroe, the lyrics were changed in tribute to the Princess of Wales, killed in an automobile accident a week earlier.

After a global audience of 2.5 billion watched the performance live broadcast, Elton released the song just one week later. Proceeds benefited Diana’s charities. He has never performed the Diana version of the song since.

(“06880” is your go-to source for news of traffic delays, invasive species, and much, much more. We could not do it without great support from our readers. Please click here to contribute. Thanks!)

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Roundup: Justin Paul’s EGOT, Paralympics Bronze, NASCAR Silver …

Posted on September 9, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Justin Paul’s EGOT, Paralympics Bronze, NASCAR Silver …

Justin Paul got his EGOT!

The 2003 Staples High School graduate, and his writing partner Benj Pasek, joined the ultra-exclusive group yesterday.

Their Creative Arts Emmy for “Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?,” from “Only Murders in the Building,” completes the prestigious 4-play.

They previously earned a Grammy for the cast album of “Dear Evan Hansen,” an Oscar for the “La La Land” song “City of Stars,” and 2 Tonys (for the score of “Dear Evan Hansen,” and as producers of “A Strange Loop”).

Only 19 other people have won EGOTs (for an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony). The list includes Richard Rogers, Helen Hayes, Rita Moreno, John Gielgud, Audrey Hepburn, Marvin Hamlisch, Mel Brooks, Mike Nichols, Whoopi Goldberg, and Sir Elton John.

So with his EGOT, we now have even more proof: Justin Paul is the GOAT! (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)

Justin Paul and Benj Pasek, with their earlier Grammy Awards.

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Yesterday’s CT United Motorcycle Ride honored the victims and first responders of 9/11 in its traditional way.

The largest motorcycle ride in the state began at Sherwood Island State Park. Hundreds of riders headed south on I-95, then north on Route 33 up Riverside Avenue and Wilton Road. The ride continued through Wilton and 7 towns, before ending at Bridgeport’s Seaside Park.

It was quite a sight to see — and hear.

Bob Levy reports: “Police, firefighters and ordinary people were there to honor that day.

“My family was there. Each of us were glad and touched we were. My little granddaughters asked if they will have this every year.”

They sure will. And it’s an honor for our town to be the starting point.

Start of the CT United ride, at Sherwood Island State Park. (Photo/Bob Levy)

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The Paralympics ended with a bang for Matthew Torres.

The Westport Weston Family YMCA Water Rat swimmer won a bronze medal, as part of the US 4×100 mixed freestyle team.

It was Matthew’s 2nd Paralympics bronze. He earned his first 4 years ago, in Tokyo.

Matthew also raced this year in the 400 meter freestyle, where he finished 5th; the 100 meter backstroke (10th), and 100 meter freestyle (15th).

Matthew Torres in the water …

The Ansonia native was born with amniotic band syndrome. He is missing half his right leg, has deformities on both hands and moderate hearing loss.

He began swimming in 2008, after watching Michael Phelps at the Beijing Olympics. The rest is history.

Congratulations to Matthew; his teammates, friends and family, and his coaches at the Y and the national level. You made Westport proud! (Hat tips; Maggie Gomez, Christina Schwerin)

… and on the podium.

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Speaking of sports: Parker Kligerman tied his best career Xfinity Series finish in Atlanta Saturday.

The 2009 Staples High School graduate — perhaps the only former Wrecker to become a NASCAR driver — came in second, just behind winner Austin Hill.

Kligerman predicts a win is coming, for the Big Machine No. 48 crew. (Hat tip: Frank Rosen)

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The Remarkable Bookcycle is down to just a few books.

The whole idea of the mobile free library is to borrow a book — and donate one.

Seems like too many people have been doing the former, too few the latter.

So stick a few of your favorites in the car. The next time you’re near the Compo Beach volleyball court, pop out. Pop open the Bookcycle door.

It’s your good deed of the day, for your book-reading neighbors.

The Remarkable Bookcycle, earlier this summer. The number of volumes has dwindled since this was taken. (Photo/Sunil Hirani)

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The other day, “06880” gave a shout-out to Ruben, at the Westport Post Office.

Less than a week later, here’s another. Denise Torve writes: “Last week I stopped in to the PO, took care of business, then headed to Trader Joe’s — only to discover my wallet was missing.

“I went straight back to the PO, fingers crossed, to see Ruben waving the wallet when he saw me come in. He was a lifesaver, given what was in it.

“He had also already posted on Facebook that I had left something there. So thank you Ruben — and thank you Dan for your positive, good news posts!”

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The Westport Writers’ Workshop is 20 years old.

They celebrated Friday, with a Saugatuck Rowing Club bash. The event included dinner, dancing, a silent auction, tributes to founder Jessica Bram and former executive director Valerie Ann Leff, and a special storytelling session.

Funds raised will help underwrite WWW’s outreach programs serving underrepresented populations, like the Bigelow Senior Center, Moms of Children with Disabilities, and STAR.

Westport Writers’ Workshop founder Jessica Bram, and executive director Blake Schnirring.

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Yesterday’s New York Times‘ “Found in the Files” feature — a weekly look at something from the newspaper’s clippings library — focused on Alan Abel.

The longtime Westporter was known for his hoaxes — including convincing the Times to print his obituary, even though he was very much alive.

The “Files” story focused on Abel’s first big effort, in 1959, about a non-existent non-profit called the Society for Indecency to Naked Animals. Its mission was to clothe dogs, cats, horses, cows and others, to protect children from lewdness.

Click here for the full Times story. (Hat tip: Les Dinkin)

Alan Abel, with a (supposed) copy of the Society for Indecency to Naked Animals newsletter.

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Westport native and longtime resident Janet Aley died peacefully at home on July 21. She was 98.

Her family calls her “a kind, warm, intelligent, creative person, with a twinkle in her eye and a whimsical sense of humor. She loved life: family, friends, children, pets, nature, art, music, and travels with her family. She found wonder and joy in wordplay, poetry, song, and the view out her back window.”

Janet attended Westport schools, then graduated in 1944 from the Thomas School in Rowayton.

As a student at Bedford Elementary, she was one of several children chosen by WPA artist Robert Lambdin to pose for the 3-part mural, “The Spirit of Adventure” that still hangs outside the auditorium of what is now Town Hall. Janet holds a tennis racquet on the right.

After Black Mountain College in North Carolina, she became the society editor of the  Westport Town Crier.

She left in 1948 to join an American Youth Hostel group in the Netherlands, repairing roads bombed in World War II.

Following her marriage in 1948 to Robert Jonathan Aley, Janet worked for 7 years in the promotion merchandising department at Look Magazine. She refused the job of department head in favor of motherhood. The family moved to Westport in 1960.

Janet volunteered for or served on the boards of many organizations, including PTAs, Intercommunity Camp, the Interfaith Housing Program, the Arts Council, and the Westport-Weston Counseling Service, primarily in producing publicity and newsletters. For many years, she also volunteered with the oral history program of the Westport Historical Society.

After her husband died suddenly in 1974, Janet returned to work — first in the selectman’s office, then in the Planning & Zoning Department. From 1983 to ’88 she was an assistant town clerk and secretary for the Planning & Zoning Commission in Weston.

She retired in 1988 and joined the Democratic Women of Westport, where she was co-president. She received the organization’s Silver Donkey Award, and regularly rode with DWW in the Memorial Day Parade.

Janet is survived by her children Jennifer Aley (Steve Gold), Judith Aley, Judson (Maria Cheung) and Jonathan (Ellen Louer); grandchildren Nathanael Jonathan Ranson, Ruby Alice Ranson and Dylan Tam (Alex McClaren).

In addition to her husband, she was pre-deceased by her daughter Judy’s husband Paul Ranson, and her brother Charles Harvey Ramsey.

Services will be held September 21 (Saugatuck Congregational Church, 1:30 p.m). Donations in Janet’s name can be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center, Homes with Hope or PAWS (Pet Animal Welfare Society).

Janet Aley

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Looking for dinner? Boasting about his size? Just having fun?

Whatever this guy is doing at Burying Hill Beach, he’s a great subject for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Peter Swift)

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And finally … Otis Redding was born on this day, in 1941. He died in a plane crash just 26 years later.

The Macon, Georgia native quit school at 15 to support his family, working with Little Richard’s band. Over the next decade he became an international star.

But his biggest fame came after his death.

(“Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay” became the first posthumous #1 record on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts. He then received many other honors, including 2 Grammys, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame,[5] and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

(Since 2009 — without missing a day — “06880” has been your hyper-local source for news, information, features, photos and more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Traffic Delays, The Bridge At Saugatuck, Kings Highway Walking Tour …

Posted on September 7, 2024 | 8 comments

A reminder: Tomorrow’s (Sunday) CT United motorcycle ride will impact travel on Riverside Avenue, Wilton Road — and cross streets — from Exit 17 to the Wilton line.

The event — paying tribute to the victims and first responders of 9/11 — is the largest motorcycle ride in the state.

It begins around 11:30 a.m. at Sherwood Island State Park. Hundreds of riders head south on I-95; take Exit 17, and then proceed to Wilton, and on through 7 towns before ending in Bridgeport.

The route is closed and continuous. With the assistance of a police escort, motorcyclists drive through traffic lights and do not stop at stop signs.

Drivers should expect extended traffic delays along the route — potentially 45 minutes or longer. Alternate routes are recommended.

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

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Today’s Slice of Saugatuck is postponed until next Saturday (September 14). Rain and thunder are expected this afternoon.

But the weather was perfect last night. And a large crowd enjoyed a pre-opening party at The Bridge at Saugatuck.

Doug Pardon’s new restaurant — replacing Parker Mansion, which replaced Mansion Clam House — will open later this month, or in early October.

But a band played, drinks were served, music rocked, and a couple of hundred guests enjoyed the 2-level space, patio and deck.

The cabanas by the river will be a welcome addition to the restaurant — and all of Saugatuck too.

“06880” will announce The Bridge at Saugatuck’s opening date, as soon as it’s set.

The band on the Bridge at Saugatuck patio …

… and a view of the downstairs bar, from above. (Photos/Dan Woog)

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Last October, “06880” reported on the 50th anniversary of the Kings Highway North Historic District — the first such designation in Westport.

Now — just in time for nice fall walking weather — the Historic District Commission has updated its self-guided walking tour.

And made it available digitally.

The fascinating and important project — overseen by HDC member Bill Ryan — includes nearly 3 dozen homes and other structures (plus a cemetery) on Wright Street, Kings Highway North, Old Hill Road, Edge Hill Lane and Wilton Road.

Click here to view, download and begin.

Kings Highway walking tour. Detailed information about each home is available by clicking on the Historic District Commission link above.

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The other day, we previewed Diane Benke’s upcoming Swedish swimrun.

The Westport mom was preparing to swim — tethered to a partner — to an island in the Stockholm archipelago. Then they’d race across the rocky surface, plunge back in the water, and do it again.

Two dozen times.

The Ötillö Swimrun World Championship involves 46 transitions: water to land, and vice versa. She hoped to race across 24 islands in all.

The pair needed to make cutoff points along the way. If they did not get to a point within a certain time, they could not continue.

Diane Benke and her swimrun partner, Chrissy Halioris of Louisville, Kentucky.

Diane is back home. Unfortunately, she says, she and her partner missed the second time cut-off by just 6 minutes.

“It was a huge disappointment,” Diane says. “Our race ended after over 5 hours on the course.

“It was a beauty and a beast! The water temperature was in the 50s. Conditions were pretty rough at the start, but you deal with the hand you’re dealt.”

Despite her early finish, Diane says, “it was so cool to be there. And it was such an incredible experience!”

Look closely — that’s Diane Benke, in the high yellow socks.

She hopes to try again another year — perhaps partnering with her husband Blake, an endurance athlete himself. (Click here to read an “06880” story about his 2013 adventure: a 153-mile Spartathlon race in Greece, tracing the journey of Pheidippides from Athens to Sparta.)

Meanwhile, Diane says, “I would love to grow the pool of local swimrunners in our community.”

Congratulations, Diane — on training for the swimrun, then spending 5 hours at, in the water and on land.

You have my admiration and huge respect, delivered warmly right here from the comfort of my home.

Diane and Blake Benke, in Stockholm.

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The Japan Society Fall Festival — scheduled for today at Jesup Green — has been postponed to tomorrow (Sunday, September 8, 1 to 4 p.m.). Threatened rain — which could harm the traditional drums — forced the delay.

The Fall Festival includes Taiko drumming, Bon Odori dance, booths with Japanese crafts and other products, and — new this year — a demonstration of Radio Taiso, a gentle fitness routine set to music. 

The 2019 Japan Festival on Jesup Green.

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Westport Fire Chief Nick Marsan spoke at yesterday’s Sunrise Rotary Club meeting.

He described the Community Connect program, and how it helps first responders during emergencies.

Sunrise Rotary has a special connection to the WFD: They provide the “river” that plastic animals course down during the annual Great Duck Race.

Fire Chief Nick Marsan speaks yesterday.

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In conjunction with StoryFest 2024, the Westport Library will showcase 2 art mediums related to their own kinds of storytelling.

The history, present and future of cartooning, and an album cover art retrospective, headline 4 new exhibits. They run from today (Saturday) through December 10.

The history of cartooning in Fairfield County is on display at “Cartoon County: The Golden Age of Cartooning in Connecticut” in the Sheffer Gallery.

It will display works from the Westport Schools Permanent Art Collection, featuring more than 40 original cartoons by area greats including Dik Browne, Mel Casson, Stan Drake, John Cullen Murphy, Leonard Starr, Jack Tippit and Mort Walker.

Visitors can explore the medium’s current condition and vision for the future with “The State of Cartooning” in the South Gallery.

Works by members of the Connecticut Chapter of the National Cartoonists Society include Greg, Brian, and Neal Walker, who carry the legacy of their father, Mort Walker, the creator of “Beetle Bailey.”

An opening reception and keynote presentation by cartoonist and comics historian Walker is set for Tuesday (September 10, 6 p.m.).

As it did in the spring, the Jesup Gallery exhibit will focus on country music this fall. Drawn once more from the collection of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame keyboardist and record producer Mark Naftalin (Paul Butterfield Blues Band) and his wife, Ellen Naftalin, “Art of the Album: Country” showcases tcovers from the 1920s through the ’70s.

Country music album covers, at the Library.

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As use of Longshore slows down, workers began maintenance on handsome entrance.

(Photo/DouglasHealey.com)

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Longtime Westport resident Marie Carpenter died Thursday, at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport. She was 96.

The Scarsdale, New York native served in the Civil Air Patrol after World War II.

She worked for many years as a real estate agent here, first for Mila Grieb Village Realty and then Coldwell Banker.

She was an avid scuba diver, tennis player and skier. and a member of the Norwalk Ski Club.

Survivors include her son Mark S. (Donna Marie) of Lakeway, Texas, and nephew Walter Greenwood of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She was predeceased by her husband Stanley, and sister Helen Thornton.

A graveside service will be held September 13 (11 a.m., Willowbrook Cemetery). In lieu of flowers, contributions in Marie’s name may be made to Potter League for Animals. Click here to leave online condolences.

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Fall is not far away, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo from Robin Frank’s back yard shows:

(Photo/Robin Frank)

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And finally … Sergio Mendes, the Brazilian pianist, composer who came to fame with his Brasil ’66 combo, and was a popular performer for more than 60 years, died Thursday in Los Angeles. He was 83, and suffered from long COVID.

Click here for a full obituary.

(If it’s happening this weekend — or any time else — you’ll read about it on “06880.” Please click here to help us continue covering everything going on in Westport. Thank you!)

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Roundup: 9/11 Ride, Annam Olasewere, Geno Auriemma …

Posted on September 9, 2023 | 1 comment

NOTE TO READERS WHO RECEIVE “06880” BY EMAIL: WordPress appears to now be sending emails with just the heading of stories — not the full story. Hopefully this is a glitch, not a permanent change.

In any event, please pass the word to anyone who asks — though you already know, because you are reading this: Just click on the headline in the email. That will bring up the entire story!

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A forecast of severe weather has forced organizers to cancel Sunday’s CT United Ride.

It’s the first cancelation ever for the event, which draws up to 1,000 motorcyclists honoring 9/11 victims and first responders.

Bikers assemble at Sherwood Island State Park, then ride down I-95 to Exit 17, where they follow Riverside Avenue and Wilton Road into Wilton, and 8 towns beyond.

Police shut down all roads, to let the motorcyclists pass. So although the tribute to 9/11 victims is off, Westporters will not be impacted by traffic detours. (Hat tip: Stacie Curran)

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Staples High School junior Annam Olasewere has missed the start of the Wreckers’ swim and dive season.

There’s a good reason: She’s representing the US at the World Aquatics Junior Championships in Netanya, Israel. Over 600 young swimmers from more than 100 nationals are participating. Annam is the only one from Connecticut.

She’s in the finals today, the finale of the 6-day event.

Annam’s 50-meter fredstyle final heat will be shown on the big screen in the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum today (Saturday), at 12:06 p.m. She is 3rd currently, with a time of 24.95.

Annam has already swum in 2 Olympic trial cuts, in the 50- and 100-meter free. This June, she’ll attend the US Olympic Trials.

 

Annam Olasewere

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Speaking of sports at the Library: With insight, humor and plenty of stories, Geno Auriemma kicked off the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston’s 2023-2024 speaker program on Thursday.

The hugely successful University of Connecticut women’s basketball coach did not disappoint the capacity crowd of 200 Y’s Men and their spouses.

Interviewer Jeremy Schaap — a Westporter, and Emmy Award-winning ESPN journalist — drew revealing answers from the coach.

Auriemma called the keys to his success “knowing what you’re good at, and getting the right people.” He noted, “trying to build a team from nothing and seeing it develop was a lot of fun. Every day was an opportunity to do better.”

The discussion also covered the new challenges contemporary college athletes face today.

The Y’s Men thank Pete Wolgast for helping arrange Geno’s appearance.

Geno Auriemma (with mic) answers questions from Jeremy Schaap.

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Looking for help, information and support around behavioral, mental health and parenting issues?

Several interesting events are on tap this month, sponsored by Westport Together:

September 12 (3 p.m.): Join the Westport Prevention Coalition’s monthly meetings. The community-based group of parents, students and local stakeholders offer prevention education and programs to combat substance misuse and related behavioral health problems. For more information, email Kgodburn@westportct.gov.

September 26 (6:30 p.m.): “The Most Vital School Supply for Parents: Learn the Signs of Adolescent Mental Health Issues and How to get Help.” An expert panel discusses mental health resources available to area students and families. Register at wtestani@turnbridge.com

September 27 (noon): “Body Positivity in the Digital Age.” Social media has profoundly impacted teenagers, particularly concerning their body image and susceptibility to eating disorders. This virtual program covers warning signs and strategies to promote healthy habits. Click here to register.

September 30 (8 a.m.): “Fathers’ Forum.” An informal opportunity for fathers to talk about parenting challenges and strategies. Click here for more information, and to register.


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No resuscitation was needed for fans of DNR Friday night at the Levitt Pavilion.

The rock band of (mostly) retired doctors performs annually there. Last night’s event was — appropriately — a fundraiser for Westport Emergency Medical Services.

(Photo/Jo Shields Sherman)

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The Westport Country Playhouse presents “I’ll Drink to That! A Broadway Cocktail Hour” — with a chaser.

Tickets to the September 22 (6 p.m.; Playhouse courtyard and Lucille Lortel White Barn Center, adjacent to the theater) event — featuring Laurence Maslon, author of “I’ll Drink to That!,” recounting magic moments on stage, and a guide to making cocktails inspired by legendary stars and classic shows, and actors incorporating his stories with songs and scenes from Broadway productions — include 2 specialty cocktails.

Attendees will enjoy the first as Maslon details the history of cocktails on Broadway. The 70-minute program concludes with a second drink, and book signing.

Click here for more information, and tickets.

Laurence Maslon

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What’s it like when a town goes to war?

Tony Pavia answers that question on September 30 (3 p.m.). It’s part of the Weston History & Culture Center’s World War II lecture series.

“An American Town Goes to War” focuses on a group of men from one town — Stamford — but their stories are universal.

Pavia — a former US history teacher, and principal of New Canaan, Stamford and Trinity Catholic High Schools — will discuss their experiences, and tell stories of them and their loved ones.

Guided tours of the Coley House, which shows life on the home front during World War II, will begiven after the lecture.

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Congratulations to Lila Manimala Doromal earned honorable mention in NPR’s recent Student Podcast Challenge.

The Pierrepont School 8th grader and Paul Taylor Ensemble dancer wrote and narrated “I Am American.” She spoke about her Indian, Filipino and Caucasian backgrounds — and what they mean to hear.

Click here to listen.

 

Lila Manimala Doromal

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Mary Gardner Stephenson of Westport, and Estero, Florida, died on August 16. She was 96.

Born in London, she was among the first graduates of the Royal Cancer Hospital’s program for X-ray technology.

Five years after marrying her late husband, John Mitchell Stephenson in 1948, they emigrated with their eldest daughter to Providence. They settled in Westport in 1963.

She was a nuclear medicine technologist at Bridgeport’s Park City Hospital.

Mary was as a member of the Daughters of the British Empire, League of Women Voters, Sierra Club and Audubon Society. She was also involved in the Westport-Weston Community Theatre and Wilton Playshop.

In retirement Mary dedicated herself to her lush garden, birding, listening to opera and traveling internationally. She was a devoted grandmother, sharing her love of the arts, animals and history.

She is survived by her daughters Wendy Winkler of Beaver Creek, Ohio; Jennifer Stephenson of Bonita Springs, Forida and Julia Thompson of Naples, Florida, 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Mary Stephenson

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This egret made quite a splash the other day, at Grace Salmon Park.

Dan Johnson captured it nicely, for our “Westport … Naturally” daily feature.

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And finally … today is September 9. Whether you use the American or European way of writing dates, it still comes out as 9/9. So …

(Sure, the weather may be iffy this weekend. But you’ll always have “06880.” Please click here to make a contribution. Thank you!)

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Pics Of The Day #1607

Posted on September 11, 2021 | 2 comments

Today’s reading of names at New York’s 9/11 Memorial honored victims from around the world. It had a bit of a Westport feel, though. Andrew Colabella was one of the readers — and a featured singer was fellow Westporter Kelli O’Hara. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

Motorcycles mass before the start of the CT Ride United this morning, at Sherwood Island State Park. The event honored victims and first responder of 9/11. (Photo/Penny Pearlman)

David Squires reports: “This morning at I-95 Exit 18, I stood with many strangers with a lump in my throat, as thousands of motorcycles roared past on their trek of remembrance. I was heart warmed and saddened at this milestone. Flags, peace signs, waves and rumbling vibrations passed before me and through me. It seemed like “a good thing.” (Photo/David Squires)

An American flag framed the motorcyclists — a reminder of the attack on that fateful day. (Photo/JC Martin)

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Roundup: Motorcycle Ride, Political Signs, Finding Westport …

Posted on September 10, 2021 | 4 comments

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The CT United Ride is a great event. The largest motorcycle ride in Connecticut travels through 9 towns — including Westport — paying tribute to the victims and first responders of 9/11.

But it also has a huge impact on traffic.

Tomorrow’s event starts at Sherwood Island State Park at 11:30 a.m. Riders take I-95 to Exit 17. They head up Saugatuck Avenue and Riverside Avenue, then follow straight on Wilton Road, into Wilton. T

The route is closed and continuous. With the assistance of a police escort, motorcyclists drive through traffic lights and do not stop at stop signs.

There will be long traffic delays along the route — 45 minutes or longer. Roads will be impassable, until the entire procession clears.

It’s an inconvenience, sure. But in comparison to what happened 20 years ago tomorrow, we all ought to be able to cope.

 

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As Election Day looms, lawns and traffic islands will be filled with political signs. And the Westport Police Department will field complaints about the removal of them.

The WPD says:

“Residents and visitors are advised against taking it upon themselves to remove signs that do not belong to them, from either public or private property.

“The enforcement of the town’s rules is the responsibility of the town of Westport, not that of private citizens. The removal of signs from public or private property by someone not authorized to do so by the town, or by the owner of the sign, may constitute theft.  Entering onto private property to remove signs may also constitute trespassing. Both of these acts can ultimately result in an arrest.

Town property includes traffic islands and road rights of way. It is not advisable to place signs on State of Connecticut property (including rights of way and islands along Routes 1, 136, 57, 33, and the Sherwood Island Connector, or on the exit or entrance ramps of I-95 or the Merritt Parkway) as the state may remove them.

In addition, signs may not be placed on school property without permission of the superintendent’s office, nor may they be put inside Compo Beach or Longshore, Town Hall, or on trees or utility poles. Signs my not interfere with traffic visiblity.

Signs on private property cannot extend beyond the property line or into the town right-of-way. They should be removed within 2 days after the election.

The political sign scene in 2012.

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Sure, wearing masks indoors — again — seems like a step backward.

But Molly Alger noticed an even more ominous sign yesterday at Stop & Shop.

Once again, the toilet paper aisle was bare.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

Is it a supply chain issue? Are we expecting a huge weather event? Or just an (excuse the pun) run on the product?

And — most importantly — where else in Westport can we stock up on TP?

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Every month, Jillian Elder directs 10% of sales from her “Finding Westport” online shop to a deserving local non-profit.

From now through October 10, it’s the Westport Farmers’ Market.

Click here to see all the tees, totes, mugs, stickers and buttons that can help support the market, and all the farmers who supply it.

A Finding Westport farmers’ tee.

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The 3rd annual Weston Flea is Saturday, September 18 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Weston High School). Over 60 vendors will sell tag sale items, furniture, crafts old and new, antiques and more.

Calise’s Market, Christophe’s Crepes and Skip’s Good Humor Ice Cream truck will be there too.

The event benefits the Weston Senior Activities Center. There’s a suggested donation of — can you handle it? — $1 per person.

Not the Weston Flea Market. But you get the idea.

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Hummingbirds are notoriously hard to photograph.

But JC Martin captured this one beautifully, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Note: By way of comparison: The feeder is only 11 inches high.

(Photo/JC Martin)

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And finally … today is the 76th birthday of one of America’s most cherished musicians — and Weston’s own — Jose Feliciano.

Feliz cumpleaños!

 

 

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Bikers Honor 9/11

Posted on September 9, 2018 | 25 comments

Around noon today, more than 2,000 motorcyclists roared through Westport.

Police blocked all side roads, and waved the bikers through traffic lights. They sped up Saugatuck and Riverside Avenues, then along Wilton Road, on their noisy way from Norwalk to Bridgeport.

Some Westporters fumed at the delays.

Many others cheered.

The bikers were part of the CT United Ride. Held annually since 9/11, the event honors all the lives lost on that tragic day, 17 years ago.

It’s Connecticut’s largest 9/11 commemoration. And it’s a fundraiser, supporting state firefighters, law enforcement and United Way.

“06880” reader Susan Birk was caught in the traffic.

She did not mind one bit.

She says, “It was very moving. It was my pleasure to wait for them, watch, pray and remember.”

She took this photo from her rear view mirror. She particularly likes the family with the flag, near the train tracks. They too honor the many victims of 9/11.

(Photo/Susan Birk)

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