Tag Archives: Dave Briggs

Roundup: 8-30g, Instagram Live, Pickleball …

Posted on August 25, 2025 | 6 comments

The latest 8-30g battle is being waged in Bethel.

According to the New York Post, Manhattan developer Vessel Technologies is warning officials that they face “expensive legislation” if they reject a proposal for a 4- or 5-story, 75-unit, steel and glass apartment complex.

Among the concerns: “worsening traffic, parking shortages, safety issues, loss of privacy and environmental impacts from stormwater to wildlife.”

The Post calls Vessel “perhaps Connecticut’s most controversial develop, specializing in steel-and-glass buildings and targeting wealthy suburbs with projects that trigger the 8-30g statute.”

8-30g is a Connecticut housing regulation that overrides much local zoning and other control, if 30% of the proposed units will be rented at “affordable” rates, according to a state formula.

Click here for the full New York Post story.

The original proposal for an 8-30g housing complex in Bethel.

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“06880” continues our Instagram Live conversations with the first selectman candidates today (Monday, 4 p.m.). Dave Briggs and I will chat with independent David Rosenwaks.

You can find us on Instagram @06880danwoog. We welcome your questions!

The series began with Republican candidate Don O’Day. Still to come: Democrat Kevin Christie.

David Rosenwaks

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Just about every town organization was represented on Saturday at Compo Beach.

The pickleball courts were named for Tom Lowrie. The 97-year-old — “Mr. Pickleball,” to many — has done more than any to drive growth of the game here.

Among those honoring him were members of the Representative Town Meeting, Recreation Commission, Y’s Men and Sunrise Rotary Club.

A demonstration by professional players followed the ceremony.

Tom Lowrie (center), with Andrew Colabella (RTM member who helped name the courts) and Tom’s daughter Anne.

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Back at the beach yesterday: A group of friends — all Westport residents, 3 of them Staples High graduates — spent every Sunday morning since June training for a swim from Compo out to Cockenoe Island.

Yesterday morning, they did the real thing.

The water was choppy and the swim was long. But, Alex Klein says, “the experience made us all feel a tiny bit younger.”

From left: Alex Klein, Evan Rutchik, Justin Zale, Zach Bilchik, Jordan Lert, Andrew Zimmerman, Ari Pollack, Josh Shapiro, Adam Gilbert, Gary Straus. Missing: Matthew Linsky (boat support). Klein, Lert and Shapiro are Staples High School Class of 2003 graduates.

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Speaking of sports: Yesterday’s Staples High School boys basketball Slam Jam was a day of action, fun — and competiton. Nearly 200 boys participated, at Bedford Middle School.

Winners of the 3-v-3 tournament were:

  • Grades 3-4: Kyle McInerney, Angel Azana, Bradley Dymond
  • Grades 5-6: Luca Talley, Delano Melvin, Nolan Greenstein
  • Grades 7-8: Tyler Burtzlaff, Andrew Freeman, Colby Whiting (photo below)

The winners of the 3 3-point contests were Bradley Dymond, Griffin Post and Jack Jaramillo.

Congratulations to all!

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Speaking of basketball: As is often the case, competition was friendly but fierce last night, at a Compo Beach pick-up game.

Ben Meyer caught some of the action.

(Photo/Ben Meyer)

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Also last night: Eight to the Bar brought their roots music to the Levitt Pavilion.

Eight to the Bar (Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

Meanwhile, as summer fades, the riverside amphitheater continues to offer entertainment, both free and ticketed.

Tonight (Monday, August 25, 7 p.m.), is the rescheduled Josh Ritter with Bhi Bhiman show. Tickets are still available, online and at the box office. Ritter — a prolific singer-songwriter, musician and best-selling author, is known for his narrative lyrics and Americana blend of rock, country and folk.

Tomorrow (Tuesday, August 26, 7 p.m.) is a free show: the Fairfield counts, with vocalists Janet Richards and Levitt favorite Frank Mastrone.

Also ahead:

September 6 (5 p.m.): Mihali, with Soule Monde and Mr. Mota. The Twiddle co-founder returns to the Levitt for his 10th show, with his full band and special guests, plus reggae-infused Mr. Mota (with Westport roots). Click here for tickets.

September 7 (7 p.m.): Amy Irving and the Goolis Orchestra (free). She’ll offer songs by longtime friend and “Honcysuckle Rose” co-star Willie Nelson.

September 11 (7:30 p.m.): The Levitt’s annual tribute to first responders, starring DNR and in support of Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service. The show is free, but donations to WVEMS are encouraged.

September 12 (8 p.m.): Strawberry Fields Beatles tribute. Click here for tickets.

September 14 (7 p.m.): Tedeschi Trucks Band: Levitt Pavilion fundraising gala. Click here for tickets. 

September 20 (7 p.m; free): Argonaut & Wasp, with Wild & Co.: Neo-disco and folk rock.

A few more shows are in the pipeline, through October.

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VFW Post 399 hosts an array of activities: veterans’ events, blood drives, Thursday night jazz.

So why not comedy too?

4 comedians — Steve Marshall, Brad Bruckner, Cara Amore and Joe Pontillo — headline Comedy Night at the VFW on September 5 (doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8). Click here for tickets, and more information.

Also ahead: Rock star/soul singer/multi-intstrumentalist Eliot Lewis — a longtime member of the Average White Band (1989-2002) and Hall & Oates’ band (2003-23) brings his many talents to the VFW on September 27 (8 p.m.). Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door; click here to purchase, and for more information.

Plus: Every Tuesday is “Burger & Brew Night” at the VFW (5-8 p.m.).

Comedy and music, coming to the VFW.

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After setting 2 previous novels in Westport, 1979 Staples High School graduate Jim Noble is moving further afield.

His most recent — and 5th — book, “IOU,” is set in 1970s Norwalk.

Amazon describes it: “A struggling seaside town along the Long Island Sound is trying to rescue itself from the grips of economic depression and a malevolent force unlike anything ever seen. Caught in the carnage are seven people whose lives, loves, and hopes are altered forever.”

Click here to order, and for more information.

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Hana Jones sends along this photo …

(Photo/Tilly Jones, age 12)

… and the comment: “It’s been a fun summer at Longshore Pool — wrist bands to prove it!”

IYKYK.

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Among the wildlife found in the Saugatuck River, behind the Levitt Pavilion: this handsome cormorant.

While drying off after a swim, he posed for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … Happy Brake Safety Week!

(Another week, another Roundup filled with news, events, photos, and random songs. If you appreciate this daily feature, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Local politics, Longshore, Real estate, Sports, Staples HS

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

Posted on August 15, 2025 | 3 comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Speaking of politics:

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

Another is scheduled for Thursday, September 18.

Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich.

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

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

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

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

John Oates

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

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

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

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Westport has 6 new Local Historic Properties.

And they’re all bridges.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But it quickly became one of Westport’s favorites.

Now, Basso celebrates its 18th birthday.

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

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

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

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VFW Post 399 reaches out to veterans in many ways.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nope. (Noope.)

Turns out to be a business district in Amsterdam.

Damn!

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

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

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

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

The 2025 season begins next month.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tom Roth

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

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

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

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

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

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Roundup: Don O’Day, Stew Leonard, Staples Football …

Posted on August 14, 2025 | 12 comments

As Westport’s selectperson’s race ramps up, “06880” is there.

This afternoon (4 p.m.), Dan Woog and TV journalist Dave Briggs take their InstagramLive camera into the political arena. We’ll chat with Republican-endorsed candidates Don O’Day and Andrea Moore. It’s the first in a series we’ll do, with all those running.

Find us @06880danwoog at 4 today. We’ll take your questions, and listen to your comments.

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Westport Rotary Club LobsterFest tickets go on sale tomorrow (Friday), at 10 a.m.

Rotary officials sent an incorrect link, which was posted yesterday. Here’s how to get tickets tomorrow morning, starting at 10: Click here, then follow the prompts.

Get ’em before they sell out!

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Invaders have returned to Winslow Park.

This time though, it’s not spotted lanternflies.

It’s stuffed animals.

Yesterday morning, alert “06880” reader Mark Mathias spotted 4 of them.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

Mark has no idea where they came from. Perhaps, he says, they’re friends of the stuffed animal at Trader Joe’s. (It’s “hidden” in the store. If a child finds it and brings it to the front, he or she is rewarded with candy or a sticker.)

There are many mysteries in Westport. (Including at Winslow — for example, the oddly symmetrical, strangely placed slightly creepy hill near the entrance.)

If you’ve got any info — or even a theory — about these stuffed animals, click “Comments” below.

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On Tuesday at Yankee Stadium, Westport resident Stew Leonard Jr. threw out the first pitch, against the Minnesota Twins. It was a perfect strike.

The supermarket mogul wore a custom jersey, courtesy of the Yanks, emblazoned with #38 and “Stewie.”

It honored his toddler son, Stew Leonard III, who drowned in 1989. Stewie would have been 38 this year.

Stew was selected for the honor of throwing out the first pitch by Yankees sponsor Mike’s Amazing, in recognition of his quick action in saving a choking crew member at the WPIX Channel 11 studio on August 1.

Mayor Adams declared yesterday “Stew Leonard Day” in New York, in honor of his heroics. Click here or below for the Instagram. (Hat tip: Susan Farley)

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Speaking of sports: Staples High School football is just beginning its new season. They’ve got a new coach, Matty Jacowleff.

But some things don’t change. This afternoon, the program hosts its 6th annual Murph Challenge.

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

The event begins at 4:30 p.m., with Catch a Lift veteran Andy Smith talking to the players about sacrifice, resilience and commitment.

Then the athletes take on the Murph Challenge. It includes a mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another mile run. (With a modified version for linemen!)

Everyone is invited to Paul Lane Field, to listen to Smith’s talk, and watch the Wreckers take on the Murph. Donations are welcome by Venmo: @Staples-Gridiron.

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Westport Police made 11 custodial arrests, in the 2 weeks between July 30 and August 12.

Five New York City males, ages 31, 18, 18, 17 and 15, were charged with forgery, and conspiracy to commit forgery, after attempting to pass counterfeit bills at local businesses. The 31-year-old was also charged with risk of injury to a minor.

A 38-year-old Milford man was charged with larceny, criminal attempt and conspiracy to commit larceny, and failure to appear, after officers responded at 3:44 a.m. to a report from a homeowner that someone had entered and searched her unlocked vehicle, parked in her driveway. A nearby resident reported that items had been stolen from his unlocked vehicle too. An officer observed a suspicious vehicle parked in the middle of the road on an adjacent street. The operator fled, but at the same time another man was seen walking toward the vehicle. He admitted to entering the unlocked vehicles. He was unable to post a $10,000 bond.  The second suspect’s identity is still under investigation.

A 28-year-old Bridgeport woman was charged with larceny, after complaints from 3 residents regarding missing jewelry from their homes. An investigation revealed that all 3 employed the same cleaning service. An employee of the service was pawning the jewelry. She was unable to post a $250,000 bond.

A 25-year-old Old Greenwich woman was charged with larceny, after shoplifting $14,651 worth of goods at Michells. She was released on a $10,000 bond.

A 41-year-old Stamford man was charge with larceny, after a report that jewelry valued at $10,000 was missing from a home. The suspect worked for a company that provided service at the victim’s home. He was released on a $25,000 bond.

A 43-year-old Westport man was charged with criminal possession of a firearm. He was ineligible to possess the Taurus .357 magnum handgun. He was unable to post a $100,000 bond.

A 59-year-old Stratford man was charged with failure to appear. He was released on a $10,000 bond.

WEstport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 17 citations
  • Driving while texting: 12
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 12
  • Speeding: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
  • Distracted driving: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehcile: 3
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Texting while driving (2nd offense): 2
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 2
  • Possession of a vicious/barking dog: 1
  • Permitting a dog to roam: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to grant right of way: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to drive right: 1
  • Improper stop: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to carry driver’s license: 1

A citation was issued for a vicious/barking dog. This is not it.

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The Planning & Zoning Commission meets in executive session at 4 p.m. today, at the law office f Berchem Moses.

There is one agenda item: “Discussion of pending litigation, Roan Development Ventures LLC v. Planning and Zoning Commission of the Town of Westport, for property at 601, 606, and 609 Riverside Ave, 91 and 96 Franklin St, 2 and 16 Railroad Place (The Hamlet at Saugatuck).”

It is the first of many such discussions, following the filing of a lawsuit against the P&Z by the developer, following denial of its proposed Saugatuck project.

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Speaking of public hearings: The Planning & Zoning Department says that scammers have contacted residents regarding zoning and/or public hearing applications.

The bad guys falsely claim that a “public hearing fee” must be paid directly to them before an application can proceed.

The town of Westport will never request payment fees through phone calls, texts, emails or payment apps like Venmo, Zelle or CashApp.

All official fees are paid directly to the town through established, secure payment methods.

Scammers may use official-sounding titles, fake letterheads, or spoofed phone numbers to appear legitimate.

If you receive a suspicious request:

  1. Do not provide personal or financial information.
  2. Do not send payment.
  3. Contact the  P&Z Department immediately (203 341-1030) to verify the legitimacy of any request.
  4. Report the incident to the Westport Police Department: 203- 341-6000.

Don’t fall for a “public hearing fee” scam!

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Little Pub @ Dunville’s is hosting a new original music series.

On the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month (7 p.m.), local singer-songwriters take the stage. The next one is August 26.

There is no cover, though ordering a drink and food is encouraged. The program is curated by Westport resident and musician Erik Moses. 

Melissa Capezio, this week at Little Pub @ Dunville’s. (Hat tip and photo/Matthew Mandell)

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The other day, “06880” published a photo of parking signs downtown.

They showed new 2-hour limits (down from 3) on several streets. (Parking lots are not affected.)

The signs said the limits were in effect from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. — even though the new regulation does not start until 8 .m.

In fact the erroneous signs had already been changed, by the town Highway Department.

They were clearly way ahead of “06880.”

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Speaking of downtown: The public is invited to his year’s free Japanese Fall Festival (Saturday, September 6, 1-4 p.m., Jesup Geen).

The family-friendly festival is sponsored by the Japan Society of Fairfield County. It features taiko drum performances, brief plays of Japanese folk tales, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional dancing.

Taiko drums, at the Japanese Fall Festival.

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We’ve reported on the success of the Fairfield Little League team — regional champs, now competing in the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvan — several times, because pitcher Ben Herbst is the son of a Staples grad, nephew of another, and grandson of Mickey and Candace Herbst.

But there are other reasons to root for our neighbors, too.

Jennifer (Zeoli) Curley is a 1996 Staples graduate. Her son Colin is on the team — and her husband Tom is one of the coaches.

Britt (Horton) Dunlap is a 1999 Staples grad. Her son Boden is on the squad too.

Fairfield won their first game in Williamsport last night. They play tomorrow night (Friday, 7 p.m.) against Hawaii. The game will be televised on ESPN.

Here’s hoping they go at least as far as the 2013 Westport team — World Series finalists! (Hat tip: Chuck Haberstroh)

Boden Dunlap, Ben Herbst and Colin Curley are all in this photo.

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Pam Docters describes today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo: “Gorgeous contrast of the blue sky and the white hydrangeas on Saugatuck Shores!”

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … you may have predicted this, from the Police Reports (above):

(Winslow Park, Staples football, Westport police — a few of the things that make our town special, all together in one Roundup. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Local politics, Police, Restaurants, Sports

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Roundup: Board Of Ed, Don Memo, Farmers’ Market …

Posted on August 7, 2025 | 7 comments

There will be 2 more candidates on the November 4 ballot.

Democrats Steve Shackelford and Jodi Harris collected — and the town clerk certified — over 400 petition signatures.

He is a former Representative Town Meeting member; she is a former Staples High School PTA co-presisdent.

They’ll join Democratic Town Committee-endorsed candidates Lauren Karpf (RTM deputy moderator) and Abby Tolan (incumbent BOE member), and Republican Town Committee-endorsed candidates Dorie Hordon (incumbent), Michelle Hopson, TEAM Westport member Andy Frankel, and Kaitlin Zucaro.

Shackelford and Harris say, “We are honored to have the opportunity to earn the trust and support of our fellow Westport residents. We look forward to engaging with the community and sharing our vision for a thoughtful, effective and forward-looking board that puts students and families first.”

Steve Shackelford and Jodi Harris.

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The Westport dining scene is about to change.

And “06880” is eating it up.

Today (Thursday) at 6 p.m., Dan Woog and Dave Briggs bring our popular “Dave & Dan” Instagram Live camera to Don Memo. Our Instagram is @06880danwoog.

The popular Mexican restaurant in the middle of downtown will soon become a popular Italian-American spot: Massi Co.

We’ll chat with owner Massimo Tullio about the new concept, his own career, and Westport’s ever-evolving culinary scene.

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Also today — like every Thursday, from May to November — the Westport Farmers’ Market comes alive, at the Imperial Avenue parking lot (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

But this day is extra special. It’s part of National Farmers’ Market Week, celebrated every first week of August.

Check out the 36 vendors — along with live music, informational tables, a great community vibe, and much more.

In other Farmers’ Market news, the Young Shoots photo contest — for photographers ages 5-18 — has been extended one week. The new deadline is August 15. Click here for details.

Happy National Farmers’ Market Week! And if you’re a young photographer: Celebrate with your camera.

See you at the Farmers’ Market! (Photo/Marcus Slomich)

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Speaking (still) of food: Quietly but deliciously, Field Trip has helped make Westport the jerky capital of the Northeast.

The company’s headquarters are at 153 Post Road East, opposite Design Within Reach.

Now they’re adding a sister brand there.

DefenderBar will be the first bar ever — and one of the first snacks in the US — to use functional ingredients like psyllium husk (to support gut health) and dandelion root (for the liver and gut), while also fueling the brain and heart with chia, flax and hemp seeds.

There are 3 flavors: cinnamon churro oatmeal, peanut butter chocolate chip and coconut almond chocolate.

To support the launch on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, founders Matt Levey, Tom Donigan and Scott Fiesinger invite any “06880” reader to come in to the store, and show you’ve followed the brand on any of those platforms.

You’ll get 25% off the entire store, including Defender and Field Trip.

The first 100 people in (and following on social media) will receive a free Defender bar. The promotion begins August 13, and runs through August 20.

Levey explains, “we realized we’re not 25 anymore. But we’re still pushing ourselves — on the trails, in the gym, at home with our wild kids — and we needed a better way to fuel that lifestyle.

“As longtime friends who have spent half our lives in the better-for-you food industry, and as adventurers and dads, we looked for something with functional macros, real ingredients, and satisfying.

“We were tired of bars that were all sugar and no substance, or ones that claimed to be ‘healthy’ but left us crashing mid-hike. So we got to work. We kept it simple, with nutrient-dense ingredients.”

Defender bars are definitely worth a field trip!

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Speaking of local businesses: The Gig Center (next to Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids) is now The Music Collective.

It offers the same services: private music lessons, rock band programs, instrument repairs, music books and instrument accessories. It’s also still the home of Westport Musical Instrument Rentals.

The new phone number is 203.292.3077.

Jamming at the Gig Center.

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Nature, memory, abstraction and form are the basis of 3 new art exhibits at the Westport Library.

The artists and their works are Steve Moen (“Circling Back,” in the Sheffer Gallery), Tom Kretsch (“A Symphony of Color,” South Gallery), and Linn Cassetta (“Eggcentric,” Jesup Gallery).

Each exhibit will have a separate reception (6 p.m.) and artist conversation (7 p.m.), with Artists’ Collective of Westport co-founder Miggs Burroughs. Moen’s is set for August 13; Kretsch’s is August 27, and Cassetta’s is September 17.

Click here for more information.

Works by Tom Kretsch

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What’s new in the world universe of amateur telescopes?

Wesetport Observatory Bob Meadows is just back from the 89th annual convention of amateur telescope makers. He’ll describe all the innovations at the Westport Astronomical Society’s next lecture: August 19 (WAS classroom, 8 p.m.)

The event will also be livestreamed on Zoom and YouTube.

Seen at the Westport Observatory. (Photo/Frank Rosen)

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The Blight Prevention Board meets August 14 (7 p.m., Zoom) to discuss 3 properties: 1 Charcoal Hil Road, 6 Clifford Lane, and 38 Old Hill Road.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from just below Arezzo’s outdoor patio.

Perhaps they didn’t have a reservation?

(Photo/Janine Scotti)

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And finally … on this date in 1789, The Department of War was established.

(Politics, food, art, entertainment … just another day on “06880.” If you learn about your town — or anything else — from our daily Roundups, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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“06880” Podcast: Dave Briggs

Posted on July 14, 2025 | 1 comment

In a community filled with interesting people, Dave Briggs may top the list.

He’s covered the Olympics, NHL and NASCAR for NBC Sports, and March Madness for Yahoo. He was a co-host on CNN, and “Fox & Friends Weekend” (with fellow Westporter Alisyn Camerota). Now he and Alisyn host a great podcaster with top newsmakers, called Sanity.

Dave keeps me on my toes like nobody else. When he joined me on the Westport Library stage the other day for an “06880” podcast, I had no idea where our conversation would go.

But I knew it would go unexpected places. Dave is unafraid to share his opinions, about any and everything.

If you’re intrigued by this very intriguing neighbor, click here or below.

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Roundup: Electric Boat, Jeremy Schaap, DexaFit …

Posted on July 6, 2025 | 4 comments

Westport is a very electric vehicle town.

Now alert “06880” reader Jamie Walsh has seen his first Candela — all-electric — boat. It was moored yesterday at Compo Beach’s Ned Dimes Marina.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

Jamie says: “Pretty cool! Those 3 things protruding in the air are the hydrofoils. They lower into the water as the boat accelerates, greatly reducing drag and rocking normally associated with most boats.

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14-time Emmy-winning ESPN reporter — and 1988 Staples High School graduate, and current resident — Jeremy Schaap has covered just about every event.

In 30 countries, on 5 continents.

Including, in our (almost) back yard, the annual 4th of July Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest.

Is it a sport? Is Joey Chestnut the Tiger Woods of eating?

Yesterday, another noted Westport journalist — Dave Briggs — sat down with Jeremy to chat about that topic.

And much more.

Their wide-ranging talk included Caitlin Clark envy, transgender sports in America, and much more.

Click here or below, to see and hear it all.

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Last fall, I had myself scanned — and underwent other tests — at Longevity Powered by DexaFit.

The company — nestled inside Sherpa. the personal fitness and training gym across from Border Grille (not their health food partner) — uses those analyses to help people understand their bodies, and improve fitness.

A Dexa scan is a quick analysis of body composition, detailing muscle mass, bone mass, fat and visceral fat. The report provides insights into a person’s T-score (bone density), ALMI, FFMI, A/G Ratio, and BMC (bone mineral content).

If you don’t know what all that means — neither did I.

But manager Amy Julien explained it all.

The other day, I went back for a follow-up. I had taken some of Amy’s recommendations to, um, heart — and the results showed improvements in areas like muscle gain.

Whew! My improved fitness regime had paid off.

Plus, I did not want to disappoint Amy.

I had not taken up a couple of her other recommendations though, like walking with a weighted vest. She (very) gently tsk-tsked me, and provided a few options.

The good news: I’m in pretty good shape.

On the other hand, I’m not Mr. Olympia.

On the third hand, I don’t want to be. I still have my day job, which keeps me from spending 5 hours a day at the gym.

In the meantime, I’ll keep working out. I’ll follow a few of Amy’s other recommendations. I may (or may not) buy that weighted vest.

And in 6 months, I’ll go back to Longevity to see how I’m doing.

Amy Julien and yours truly. Long may we both live.

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Westporters are not pleased with the state Department of Transportation maintenance facility construction project, off the Sherwood Island Connector behind Walgreens.

But at least the DOT got into the patriotic holiday spirit this weekend:

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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Early Clover — the former Coasters’ lead singer, and Apollo Theater favorite –brought his soul/R&B/Motown show to the Levitt Pavilion last night.

The youngsters he brought up on stage were born decades after Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Nat King Cole and Otis Redding were alive.

But — with a little encouragement — they got right into those legends’ classic grooves.

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Bert Reisman — an accomplished journalist, businessman, and longtime Westporter whose volunteer efforts ranged from the Library to Little League —  died June 25, at his Southbury home. He was 96.

The Brooklyn native (and passionate Dodgers fan) graduated from New York University in 1941 with a degree in journalism.

At NYU he met his first wife, Sydelle Silver. They were married for 43 years before her death.

They left New York for Colorado, where he was a reporter for the Durango Hearld. Bert then wrote for the St. Joseph (Missouri) Gazette and Rochester (New York) Times Union. His feature subjects included Willie Mays, Jonas Salk and Robert Oppenheimer.

Bert left journalism in 1959 for corporate communications. He spent 30 years at IBM, where he spearheaded the public relations launch of the IBM 360.

He was also responsible for award-winning campaigns that featured Charlie Chaplin and the M*A*S*H characters.

In his final position, Bert he oversaw IBM’s advertising, media relations and market research. After reaching mandatory retirement age, he spent 6 years as a senior consultant at Burton Marsteller.

During his 35 years in Westport, Bert was active in local politics, served on the Westport Library board of directors, and was a Little League organizer, umpire and manager.

He met his second wife, Louise, when he moved to Stratford. They were married for 16 years, before her death in 2021.

Bert split his time between Connecticut and Carefree, Arizona, where his passion for golf flourished. He enjoyed being part of the Mulligans, a group devoted to golf, community service and laughter.

He is survived by his children Robin of Westport, Jodie (Mark) Naber of Sanibel Island, Florida, and Mike of Westport, and grandchildren Samantha Sydelle of Providence and Charlie Reisman of Los Angeles.

A funeral service will be private. Donations in Bert’s name can be made to the Amazin’ Mets Foundation. Type in mikereisman@outlook.com when prompted.

Bert Reisman

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Slava Leykind died Wednesday, from complications after participating in a mountain endurance event earlier in the week. He was 43.

Born in Minsk, USSR, in 1982, he emigrated with his family to Minneapolis in 1988.

In 20024 he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

Slava joined General Mills. In 2006 he joined the boutique investment banking firm Sawaya Segalas, and rose one 3 senior partners at what became Sawaya Partners. When it was acquired by Canaccord Genuity in 2021, Slava became co-head of US consumer investment banking for the broader firm.

Yet Slava’s role as a husband and father was his greatest achievement, passion and pride. He is survived by his wife Amy Keller Leykind; children Charlotte, Eloise and Jonah Leykind; parents Art and Nelly Leykind; brothers Gene and Max; parents-in-law Bonnie and Alex Keller; in-laws Nina Leykind, Laura and Alan Isenberg, and Rachel Leykind, and nephews and nieces Deia Leykind, Coby Leykind, Jackson Isenberg, Esme Isenberg and Blake Leykind.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. July 8 at Temple Israel. A private burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a fund in Slava’s name is being established at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business. Details will follow.

Slava Leykind

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It was hard not to have fun this weekend.

And that goes not just for guys and gals. Gulls, too.

Wendy Levy spotted this pair at Burying Hill Beach. They swooped past, posing just long enough for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … happy 50th birthday, to 50 Cent!

(“06880” relies on support from readers like you. Whether it’s $500, $50 — or 50 cents — your donation is important. Please click here, then follow the prompts. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Eileen Lavigne, Cathy Talmadge, Joe Walsh …

Posted on June 29, 2025 | 3 comments

Congratulations to Eileen Lavigne!

Westport’s assistant town attorney married Tim Ritchie on June 14, at Compo Beach.

They met “bravely” on Match, she says, in June 2020 — at the height of the pandemic.

The wedding took place in front of both partners’ immediate families. The officiant was very familiar: Eileen’s daughter Kat.

Eileen Lavigne and Tim Ritchie (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Cathy Talmadge’s family and friends gathered yesterday at Wakeman Town Farm.

A memorial garden was dedicated to WTF’s co-founder, committee member and treasurer. It honored her legacy of preservation, environmentalism and community involvement

Cathy — who was also a longtime Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member, civic volunteer and environmental advocate — died in January 2023.

It took over 2 years and hundreds of hours for volunteers, interns and farmers to amend the soil, eliminate weeds, and turn a fallowo piece of propety across the street from the Farm into a thriving cut-flower garden.

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Westport poet laureate Donna Disch, and friends Amy Ancel and Tony McDowell were among the speakers.

Cathy’s daughter Callie said her mother’s “happy place was always in her garden, under the sun, srrounded by the wild beauty she helped nurture.

“She had an incredible eye for plants, and the kind of green thumb that could bring anything back to life.

“She didn’t just garden; she communed with the plants. She was usually covered head to toe in dirt, with the biggest grin on her face.

“And usually, yes, a solid case of posion ivy.”


Cathy Talmadge Memorial Garden. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs have done it again.

On Friday, the television journalists recorded a riveting “Sanity” podcast with Joe Walsh.

The former Tea Party co-founder-turned-Democrat (as of last week) spoke candidly about the state of his former Republican Party, his differences with Democrats, and the importance of a “big tent” that covers a variety of views.

Alisyn and Dave both worked at Fox News. Their questions about Joe’s appearances there — including interviews with Alisyn — are particularly fascinating.

Click here or below to view their podcast. It’s a half hour well worth watching.

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A demolition notice has been placed on the porch of 21 Norwalk Avenue, a few steps from Compo Beach.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

The 4-bedroom, 2 1/2-bathroom, 2,155-square foot home was built in 1920.

Well, it was a great 105-year run.

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Did you miss yesterday’s Great Duck Race?

Were you there, and want to see it again? (With the chance this time to pause for the highlights — even though you still have no idea which duck is yours.)

Sunrise Rotary Club member Mark Mathias taped the entire 8 minute-plus race. Click here or below to see.

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There was a lot of music in Westport Friday — and only a few yards apart.

Mystic Bowie brought his high energy “Talking Dreads” show to the Westport Library. Across the way, the Tom Petty Project rocked the Levitt Pavilion.

In the parking lot between the venues, Jerry Kuyper met 2 couples who had agreed to meet at “the concert.”

At that moment, they realized the one pair had tickets for Mystic. The other had them for Tom Petty.

Jerry offered great advice: Meet halfway through, and switch arm bands.

Yeah, that was a first world problem. But maybe Jerry should offer his problem-solving skills to the Middle East.

There were 2 concerts Friday: one outdoors, one inside. (Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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“06880” readers love Claudia Sherwood Servidio’s. A relative newcomer to Westport, the professional photographer captures the beauty and natural wonder of our town with a discerning and special eye.

Claudia spends most summer on the Greek island of Lemnos, in the Aegean Sea.

On Friday she  had a show there of her underwater photos. Here’s one:

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

Looks like a great show. How about another project: “Underwater Westport”?

There’s no telling what she might find.

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Astele — which has sold tables, seating, lighting, accessories and more on Riverside Avenue near Post Road West since 1996 — is closing next week.

Her focus has changed, says owner Natalie Dunagan. She’s selling mostly online now, to the hospitality industry here and abroad.

Her lighting, barstools and other items will now be available at New England Antique Lumber in Mt. Kisco, New York.

Residential (left) and commercial offerings, from Astele.

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On Thursday, the Jazz Society of Fairfield County awarded 2 $5,000 scholarships, to graduating high school seniors who will pursue a career in jazz performance, composition and/or jazz education.

They grants honor longtime saxophonist, educator and supporter of the non-profit’s Thursday night “Jazz at the Post” series.

Liana Nash (Kolbe Cathedral High School) studies music with the KEYS (Kids Empowered by Your Support) program in Bridgeport, which provides free lessons to students whose families cannot afford them. She sings in the KEYS choir, plays cello in its orchestra, and is a vocalist and pianist in its jazz band.

This summer she will intern at KEYS Summer Camp. In the fall she will study music education at Western Connecticut State University.

Maxwell Crook is a saxophonist from Ridgefield. He earned the Outstanding Soloist award at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington competition, and participated in the Western Connecticut State University Honors Festival.

He will double major in jazz performance and music production/composition at Loyola University in New Orleans.

In addition to their scholarships, Liana and Maxwell performed with a quartet of renowned musicians at last Thursday’s Jazz at the Post.

Liana Nash and Maxwell Crooks, at Thursday’s Jazz at the Post.

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Sure, today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows milkweed at Sherwood Island State Park.

But, photographer Marcia Falk wonders: Can you spot the bee?

(Photo/Marcia Falk)

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And finally … in honor of Claudia Sherwood Servidio’s underwater photo exhibit (story above):

(What a weekend! And it’s only half over. If you’re enjoying it  — and our coverage of it — please click here to support our work. Thank you. Now enjoy the rest of the day.)

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Roundup: No Referendum, Open Beaches, Fireworks Tickets …

Posted on June 27, 2025 | 5 comments

There will be no referendum on Long Lots Elementary School.

Toni Simonetti had 14 days to collect 2,015 signatures — 10% of all eligible voters in the most recent election. She hoped to slash the proposed $103,190,124 expenditure for a new school to $90 million.

Yesterday was the petition deadline. Only 71 signatures were turned in. The drive was 1,944 signatures short.

Planning will proceed for a new Long Lots, without a referendum.

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Good news!

The most recent bacteria tests for Compo and Burying Hill came back negative yesterday. The beaches have reopened.

Whew!

Everyone back in the water! (Photo/Rowene Weems)

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Tickets are selling well for Wednesday’s fireworks show at Compo Beach — aka Westport’s Best Party of the Year. Only a small number remain.

A few residents have asked about this year’s price increase, the first in several years.

Westport PAL — the longtime co-sponsor, and beneficiary of the fundraiser — explains that costs have risen dramatically for everything: the barge, insurance, and the fireworks themselves.

Melissa and Doug Bernstein generously underwrite part of the costs, as they’ve done for years. Without their help, PAL would net only about $2,000.

Proceeds helps fund PAL programs that serve programs that serve thousands of youngsters each year, plus the Longshore skating rink and college scholarships. Click here to learn more about PAL.

Tickets (cash or check) are available at the Parks & Recreation Commission office at Longshore (near the golf course first tee) during office hours, and any time at the Westport police station on Jesup Road.

Westport’s greatest party returns July 2. (Photo/Elissa Moses)

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Our second “06880” Instagram Live yesterday was certainly lively.

Dave Briggs and Dan Woog explored the “Don’t Kill the Old Mill” campaign, in support of Old Mill Grocery & Deli.

And we did it from the communal table, inside the very popular Hillspoint Road spot.

We were joined by several OMG notables, including owner Graziano Ricco of Romanacci’s; Jim Hood and Ian Warburg of the non-profit Soundview Empowerment Alliance, owner of the 106-year-old building, Matthew Mandell of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, and Chris Tait, an Old Mill neighbor and staunch supporter.

They explained what OMG means to the neighborhood. We took questions from viewers too.

Click here to see the converation. or click below. Too bad you can’t taste the meal we had.

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There is still time to take the Parks & Recreation Department’s master plan survey.

It’s a great opportunity to offer your opinion on the current state, and future needs, of our town’s beaches, parks, athletic fields and more.

Click here to take the survey. It closes next month.

How are things at Compo Beach? And every other Parks & Rec facility in town? Take the master plan survey to weigh in.

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The Levitt Pavilion offers 2 free shows, and 1 other, this weekend.

The Tom Petty Project kicks things off tonight (Friday, 7:30 p.m.). All free tickets have been claimed, but returned tickets will be redistributed at the box office before the show.

A few tickets are still available, at various prices, for tomorrow’s Disco Biscuits cconcert (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.).

Artemis takes the stage Sunday (7 p.m.), for a free show.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Disco Biscuits

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The “Weston Connections Art Exhibit” at the Weston Public Library opens next month. Over 55 artists will be represented.

A reception, with the artists, is set for July 9 (6 p.m.).

Two drawing/painting classes are scheduled for July: the 12th for adults, the 26th for children. Click here for more details, and to sign up. 

Weston Public Library

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Edwin A. Audley — a former Westport Police captain, and founder of the Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service — died last month in Winter Haven, Florida. He was 87.

The Westport native graduated from Staples High School in 1955. He served in the Army from 1955 to 1958, then joined the Army Reserves as a senior aircraft mechanic until 1962.

Ed joined the Westport Police Department in 1961. He was promoted to sergeant, lieutenant, inspector, then captain in 1990. He retired in 1993.

Ed founded the WVEMS in 1979. He became an Emergency Medical Technician instructor in 1987.

In Florida, Ed was president of the Winter Haven Rose Society.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth; brother Harry Audley (Pat), daughters Kimberly, Susan Palmer (Mark) and Victoria; 4 grandchildren, 5 great- grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on July 12 (Assumption Church, 10 a.m.).

Click here to leave online condolences. Donations can be made to the Edwin Audley Scholarship Fund, c/o Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services, 50 Jesup Rd. Westport, CT 06880.

Ed Audley

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Former Westporter Priscilla Boyle died last Friday, surrounded by her family. She was 96.

She graduated from Lesley College, then taught kindergarten in Watertown, Massachusetts for 9 years before marrying Charles Boyle in 1958. They moved to Westport in 1963, and raised 3 children here.

Priscilla was involved with tennis, the Weston Field Club and bridge.

She was an active member of Assumption Church for over 6 decades. She shared her faith through Eucharistic Ministry, prayer groups, book clubs and as a catechism teacher, with a special dedication to preparing children for their First Communion.

Later, Priscilla became a welcoming presence at the Westport YMCA as a receptionist.

Priscilla was predeceased by her husband and her siblings Mary Alice Connolly, James W. Scanlan, Anne T. “Nancy” Batal and Francis V. Scanlan. al.

She is survived by her children Charles “Chip,” Susan Improta (Paul), and Elizabeth Boyle; grandsons Kenneth and Philip Improta, sister-in-law Alice Scanlan, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Priscilla’s life will be held at Assumption Church on July 15 (11 a.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations in Priscilla’s memory may be made to Smile Train.

Priscilla Boyle

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June is ending the way it began: with plenty of colors.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” yellow-and-green scene is from Whitney Street.

But it could be many other places in town too.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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And finally … Mick Ralphs — the Mott the Hoople and Bad Company guitarist/ songwriter — died. He was 81, and had bedridden after suffering a stroke in 2016. Click here for a full obituary.

(You’re in good company if you support “06880” with a tax-deductible contribute. Please click here. And thank you!)

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Roundup: James Comey, Lynsey Addario, Staples Kids …

Posted on May 19, 2025 | 23 comments

James Comey is in the news again — a lot.

The former Westport resident and FBI director is being investigated by the Secret Service. His new book, “FDR Drive” — a legal thriller and exploration of political extremism — will be published tomorrow.

Meanwhile, 2 other Westporters — TV journalists Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs — taped a fascinating interview with him, for their “Sanity” podcast.

They talked about Comey’s viral “86-47 post,” the Trump administration, right wing outrage, extremism, the FBI, the Supreme Court, the 2016 election, and much more. 

Including Westport.

Comey reveals what he’d say to Hillary Clinton, if they bumped into each other at Viva Zapata (one of his favorite restaurants). And he adds that his next book will include a scene there.

Listen to the “Sanity” podcast with James Comey here.

Screenshot from the “Sanity” podcast (from left): Dave Briggs, Alisyn Camerota, James Comey.

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As the world focuses on Gaza and Ukraine, another humanitarian crisis continues — with much less attention — in Sudan and Chad.

New York Times Pulitzer Prize, MacArthur “genius grant” recipient (and 1991 Staples High School graduate) Lynsey Addario is making sure it’s not completely forgotten.

Her photo essay in The Atlantic — “The Crisis of American Leadership Reaches an Empty Desert” — shines a heart-wrenching light on this other humanitarian disaster.

Lynsey’s photos and text are available here (paywall). (Hat tip: Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

Sudanese refugees in the hot sun near a United Nations truck. (Photo copyright Lynsey Addario for The Atlantic)

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The Westport Library Spring Book Sale would not be possible without the help of dozens of volunteers.

Among them on Saturday: 2 Jenns (below):

(Photo/John Karrel)

The Book Sale continues today (Monday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; fill the Library logo bag for $10, or your own equivalent bag for $8; individual books half price).

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Westport PAL awarded 8 college scholarships last week, to Staples seniors who will graduate next month.

Honorees included Chloe Barnes, Katie Fitzgerald, Aiden Goldenberg, Rachel Pontoriero, Lily Rimm, Eva Sladek, Edward Van der Merwe and Olivia Zhou.

All proceeds from PAL’s golf event go to the scholarship fund. The 63rd Chief Samuel Luciano Golf Tournament is set for September 8, at Longshore.

The shotgun start is followed by cocktails, dinner, raffles and prizes. Registration and more information is available here.

Westport PAL president Craig Bergamo (far left), with scholarship honorees.

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More awards: On Friday, the Sunrise Rotary Club gave Paul Harris Awards — one of the highest honors the international service organization can give — to 16 people.

Recipients included Charlie Adams, Daniel Ambruso, Brien Cartagena, Sister Maureen Fleming, William R. Harris Jr., Jay B. Paretzky, Vincent Penna Sr., Anna Rycenga, Frankie Smith, Anne Lowrie, Ines SaCouto Curwen, Tomas SaCouto Curwen, Susan Hawley, Jonathan Hendrickson, Matthew Hendrickson and Robert Rubenstein.

 

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Meanwhile, both Sunrise Rotary and the Westport Rotary Club participated in Saturday’s international Epic Day of Service.

Among the projects: Sunrise Rotarians helped out at the Open Doors shelter in Norwalk. “What a great feeling to give back,” says volunteer Alma Sarelli.

Volunteers at Norwalk’s Open Doors shelter.

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Yesterday’s “Day of Champions” raised $175,000 for Westport-based Experience Camps — the non-profit that runs summer camps and year-round programs for children and teens grieving the loss of a parent, sibling or caregiver.

“06880” ran a few photos yesterday. Here are some great bonus shots:

(All photos/Kerry Long)

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There’s plenty of great fresh produce at the Westport Farmer’s Market.

And plenty that if not sold, would be wasted.

Food Rescue rescues food. They work with restaurants, supermarkets and grocery stores, to pick up unused, perishable meat, fruit, vegetables and more, and deliver it to food pantries and homeless shelters.

Every week, Farmers’ Market vendors donate food that is still fresh, delicious and healthy but unsold. It would go to compost or into the waste stream — but instead it is distributed it neighbors in need, including the Gillespie Center (around the corner from the WFM), and Fridegeport in Bridgeport.

The program is funded through donations and grants.  The Westport Farmers Market continues every Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot), through November.

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More than 3 years ago, “06880” profiled Matt Yemma.

The 2002 Staples High School graduate had just started his own crypto PR firm.

He’s now launched Endeavor Communications. The agency provides media guidance to clients in financial and professional services, fintech, real estate, advertising, adtech, and climate services.

Already they’ve held Qualitative Brokers, a fintech firm that creates algorithms for advanced execution trading, leading to Deutsche Borse scquiring a majority stake. And 427, a tech company that analyzes and predicts climate risk for governments and private businesses, which led to an acquisition by Moody’s.

Matt Yemma

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Longtime Westport resident Esther Brodie died peacefully in her home of 71 years on Thursday. She was 98.

She and her husband Richard built their Burr Farms Road home largely by hand, in 1954 and ’55.

A Bronx native, her parents were recent immigrants. Born during Purim, she was named for the holiday’s heroine queen.

After graduating from Hunter College, where she competed on the diving team, she taught physical education at Taft High School in the Bronx. She met her future husband at Camp Berkshire.

Their son Scott was in the first kindergarten class at Burr Farms Elementary, a few yards from their home. In 1962 Esther returned to teaching phys. ed., in New Canaan. She earned a master’s degree and 6th-year certificate in counseling. She taught for 3 decades, including some children of former students.

Esther served as president of the local chapter of Hadassah, and was active in the Temple Israel sisterhood. Her avocations included modern dance, tennis and meditation. She attended concerts in the area, and enjoyed Broadway shows.

For over 3 decades, Esther was a senior staff member at Camp Berkshire. When it closed in the 1980s, she and Richard built a vacation home on the lake. They spent every summer and frequent Thanksgivings there.

After retiring Esther studied piano, participated in a labyrinth project for women in prison, and volunteered for the census. She joined the Y’s Women investment club, and greeted new residents to her road with welcome gifts.

Esther is survived by her sons Scott (Susan) and Bruce Marie), grandchildren Joshua, Emma, Melissa, Clara and Ben, and their respective spouses and companions Hilary, Kevin, David, Mariah and Claudia.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent to the Hunter College Foundation.

Esther Brodie

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It’s been a crazy month. There’s a lot coming up.

But the star of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature has not a care in the world.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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And finally … in honor of yesterday’s Experience Camp “Day of Champions” (story above):

(Be a champ! Support “06880”! Please click here! Thank you!)

 

 

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Roundup: Memorial Day Grand Marshal, Board Of Ed Agenda, Senator Blumenthal …

Posted on May 14, 2025 | 5 comments

A well-known and longtime Westporter will lead the Memorial Day parade as grand marshal: Judge Edward Karazin.

Shortly after marrying in 1965, he joined the Army. Deployed to Vietnam as a civil affairs officer, he served as a MACV advisor in the Pacification Program. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Vietnamese Gallantry Cross.

Following his service, Karazin returned home to pursue his passions for law and community. He was a lawyer and judge, providing pro bono legal work for veterans, and continues to support Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 399 in Westport.

He has spoken regularly at schools about his military experience, leads the annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Stamford courthouse, and is an active participant in veterans’ events and local parades

Judge Karazin has also been a Little League coach and board member, Pop Warner board member, lector at Assumption Church, and instructor for in-service training with the Westport Police Department. He was also an adjunct professor at Western Connecticut State University, teaching legal writing and family law.

The Memorial Day parade is May 26. It begins at 9 a.m. on Riverside Avenue, continues on Post Road East to Myrtle Avenue to Main Street, and ends at Parker Harding Plaza.

A special program begins immediately after the parade, at Veteran Green across from Town Hall.

Judge Edward Karazin

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The Board of Education meets tomorrow (Thursday, May 15, 7 p.m., Staples cafeteria).

Among the key agenda items: a recommendation from superintendent Thomas Scarice on smartphones and wearable technology, and a redistricting update.

The meeting begins with 15 minutes of comment by the public, on non-agenda items.


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The Sanity Podcast — Westport journalist Dave Briggs and Alisyn Camerata’s extremely educational and entertaining podcast — dropped its most sizzling episode ever this week.

Senator Richard Blumenthal came to the Content Studio on Saugatuck Avenue. He said that “no other scandal in American history” compares to President Trump’s crypto dealings, meme coin scams, and foreign cash grabs.

“Is America sliding into autocracy?” Dave and Alisyn ask. “Discover how $300 million was made in 100 days, and what Congress refuses to stop.”

The Sanity podcast is available here, as well as on Spotify and iTunes. Or you can click below:

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Mr. Pickleball is hanging up his racquet.

At the age of 96, Tom Lowrieis resigning as Westport’s pickleball ambassador.

The new ambassador — selected by USA Pickleball — is Brandon Osterhout. A native Westporter, Staples High School graduate and local business owner, he is as active a player has Tom has been for years.

Brandon will continue to promote the sport, through tournaments, social events, exhibitions, and new courts.

“Thank you for your years of friendship, and your shared love of pickleball,” Tom says. “You will still see me around the courts, waving from the sidelines.”

Thanks for all your service, Tom. This would not be a pickleball paradise without you!

Tom Lowrie (Photo/Pam Einarsen)

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Westport has plenty of talented young artists.

But they get lots of help from their art teachers. And those instructors are very talented too.

The Westport Art Teacher Exhibition features work from educators across the district, including Stephanie Sileo, Mark DeRosa, Paula Morgan, Timothy Soper, Cecily Anderson, Carla Eichler, Cameryn Robinson, Denise Cuccia, Angela Simpson, and Danilo Sierra-Giraldo.

The exhibition runs May 12–23 at One River School of Art + Design. A reception is set for Friday (May 16, 6 to 7:30 p.m.). The public is invited. More information on the exhibit is available here.

(Paula Morgan)

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Seen downtown: L’Occitane on Main Street is closed for renovations. They’ll reopen later this month.

Meanwhile, around the corner on Church Lane, Fig Linens is closing. “Everything must go,” the sign says.

(Hat tip and photos/Sal Liccione)

Just a few yards away, Mrs. London’s finished with her/its loadout. The final day was Sunday. New York-based Maman takeks over soon.

The final item in the truck: the cappuccino machine.

(Hat tip and photo/Matt Murray)

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It’s cool that Leo is the first American pope.

But he’s from Chicago — 840 miles from here. We can’t really claim him as one of our own.

Still, he’s got at least one connection to this area. Check out Pope Leo XIV singing “Feliz Navidad” — the jangly, popular, not-very-religious-at-all Christmas tune written and performed by Weston’s own José Feliciano.

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Andrew Wilk is a Big Name in entertainment.

The Westporter is a 5-time Emmy Award-winning executive producer and director of network television. He has worked with Itzhak Perlman, Yo-Yo Ma, Joshua Bell, Renee Fleming, Audra McDonald and Kelli O’Hara.

He is also a noted stage director and writer. But symphony conducting remains his first love. He is a frequent musical director and conductor at the Paper Mill Playhouse, and been involved with the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra and New Jersey Symphony Orchestra.

This Saturday (May 17), Wilk will be at Waterbury’s Palace Theater. He will conduct the Waterbury Symphony Orchestra for a night of music and memories, celebrating 20 years of Broadway musicals.

The show will include musical numbers from “The Phantom of the Opera,”
“Ragtime,” “Evita” and “Dreamgirls,” plus “Over the Rainbow,” “Memory” and “Tomorrow.”

Tickets and more information are available here.

Andrew Wilk with one of his Emmys, at his Lincoln Center office.

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Pianist/composer Ted Rosenthal headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, May 15, VFW Post 399, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. shows, dinner at 7; $20 music charge, $15 veterans and students).

He’ll be joined by trumpeter Josh Bruneau, bassist Martin Wind, drummer Tim Horner and saxophonist Greg Wall. Tickets are available here.

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Steven Lewine died peacefully on April 13. He was 67, and had been diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease just 10 days earlier, and spent that time surrounded by his many loved ones.

At age 15, the Great Neck, Long Island native was hit by a truck while walking to school. Hespent several weeks in a full body cast. Doctors told him his survival was due to strength and luck. He often referred back to this experience to tap into a deep well of resilience and optimism.

He became the first person in his family to go to college. Steve studied Spanish and business in New York, Mexico, Canada, Arizona and Spain, earning 2 master’s degrees. He married Blandine in 1984. He had a career in investment banking, working across Latin America and spending 5 years in São Paulo, Brazil.

In 2013 he married Julie. He built a second career as a financial advisort. In 2021 he endowed the Lewine Global Engagement Fund at his alma mater, SUNY Brockport, to facilitate international experiences like the ones that shaped him.

He was passionate about the Rotary Club, through which he organized fundraising and service trips to schools and nonprofit organizations in Latin America.

Steve is survived by his wife Julie; their children Chris (Natalie), Nico (Pallavi), Gabby (Jimmy), Cara Miller (Cory) and Cody Wright (Laura), and grandchildren Leonardo, Jaya, Isabelle, and Owen, and siblings Julie, Bob and Barbara. Steve was also a father figure to his late brother Danny’s eldest daughter Patricia (Jason), and counted her daughter Rosalie among his grandchildren.

A memorial service is set for May 29 (2 p.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church). with a celebration of life to follow that day from 5-7 p.m. at Shorehaven Golf Club in Norwalk.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the CJD Foundation.

Steve Lewine

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” shows a rhododendron. Photographer Bob Weingarten notes that it flowers from the bottom up.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … Happy National Night Shift Workers Day!

(“06880” works 24/7 — including the night shift — to bring you all of Westport’s news, events, photos and more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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