Tag Archives: David Waldman

Roundup: Fundraisers, Fun — And January 6 …

Posted on September 24, 2025 | 12 comments

Last weekend, Westporters enjoyed lobster, from the Westport Rotary Club.

Next month it’s wine, with Westport Sunrise Rotary.

The 34th annual edition of “Westport Uncorked” — an evening of great food and drink, and plenty of community spirit — is set for October 16 (6 to 9 p.m., the Inn at Longshore).

One hundred sustainable and organic wines, curated by Cory D’Addario of The Fine Wine Company of Westport, are available for tasting, with expert advice from the distributors who will serve them.

Exclusive wines can be ordered at the event.  Non-alcoholic beverages and hors d’oeuvres are also on the menu.

All proceeds go directly to charities supported by the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Okay … one more look at the LobsterFest.

This is a view we don’t often see. It’s from a drone.

Can you find yourself?

(Drone photo/RB Benson)

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In 2016, Michael Fanone voted for Donald Trump.

In 2021, he was a US Capitol police officer defending the building against rioters. They tried to take his gun, and shoot him.

The other day — in the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s murder, and all that followed — TV journalist and Westport resident Dave Briggs talked to Fanone.

Fanone’s reaction to the president blaming the left for all political violence is powerful, emotional and still raw.

Click here or below for in-depth Briggs’ interview.

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Le Pain Quotidien (“the daily bread”) opens today, at the east end of the Fresh Market plaza.

It moves into the space vacated several months ago by short-lived 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.

A few of the many Le Pain Quotidien treats. (Photo/Jerri Graham)

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A few new names have been added to Westoberfest — the craft beer and family festival set for October 4 (12 to 6 p.m., Elm Street downtown).

New this year, Castle Wine & Spirits joins the tasting area as sommeliers.

Children enjoy face painting, pumpkin decorating, and flower crown making, and a new petting zoo hosted by Kelly’s Kids. 

Food choices range from traditional German fare by Colossal Kielbasa, to Haven Hot Chicken, Paradise Island Food, COBS Bread, Sushi Jin and LemonNate’s.

Musical entertainment comes from Dan Tressler and One Bad Oyster. CBS News weather anchor (and Westport resident) Lonnie Quinn emcees the crowd-favorite hot dog eating contest.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking of downtown: There’s a new sculpture at Sconset Square.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

Well, not exactly new.

David Waldman bought “Trapped Ball,” by sculptor Dale Rogers, 20 years ago at the Westport Arts Festival.

The real estate developer placed it in a shopping center he owns in Avon. It’s been there ever since.

But a new tenant needed the space, for an outdoor dining area.

So Waldman brought it back “home.” He looked at several options, and decided the small shopping plaza — with plenty of drivers stopping in front, at the Myrtle Avenue light — was the best site.

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Also downtown: Eleish Van Breems Home is hosting a “Soul of Scandinavian Design” event at their Main Street flagship location, on October 9. The event features insights into Nordic principles behind furniture, textiles, glass and pottery, from Steele Marcoux and Scandinavian designers flying in for the day.

Also on tap: the opening of EVB’s Fika bar, with ceramist Agneta Livijn.

Agneta Livijn’s design.

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Another downtown event: Westport Book Shop hosts Staples High School graduate Bruce Lawder for a hours poetry and short story reading this Friday (September 26, 6 to 7:30 p.m.).

He’ll share poems from his latest collection, “Breakwater Rock” — deeply connected to Westport — and stories from his book of short fiction, “Dwarf Stories.”

RSVP by emailing RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org or calling 203-341-5141.

Bruce Lawder

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The Sherwood Mill Pond tidal gates renovation project draws the interest of many Westporters.

“06880” has received a number of photos, from a variety of angles. Here’s the latest:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

There’s plenty of time for others to submit theirs. The scheduled completion date is May — 8 months from now.

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Also on the water: The Saugatuck River major dredging project is still (far) in the future.

But work to replace pilings and docks continues.

(Photo/Werner Liepolt)

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Saturday’s MoCA CT “Endless Summer” fundraiser and friend-raiser brought the beach indoors Saturday night. 150 guests enjoyed art, music and community, around the backdrop of Ted Papageorge’s “At the Beach” photo exhibit.

One special highlight was a major contribution in support of the museum’s outreach to underserved communities.

From left: Deborah Murtagh, MoCA CT past president; William Felton, gala co-chair Rita Marcocci; 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker; gala co-chair Keara Williams; Pamela Hovland, acting executive director. (Photo/Lewis Derogene)

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Longtime Westport resident and civic volunteer Diane Cady died peacefully on September 17 in Boulder. She was 91.

The California native attended College of Marin, then earned a master’s degree in social work at Fordham University.

In Westport, Diane served with the Westport Young Woman’s League and Westport Rotary Club.

She was elected to the Representative Town Meeting (RTM), then was appointed to the Westport Tree Board.

Diane had a special place in her heart for dogs, particularly
Gordon setters. She enjoyed showing them, with a spirit of
competition and camaraderie.

She was predeceased by her brother, Roderick Duncan. She is survived by her children Christopher, Stephen and Robin MacLaughlin, and 5 grandchildren.

Diane Cady

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo appears just 64 days before Thanksgiving.

Don’t tell these guys.

And where are they?

Turkey Hill South.

You can’t make this stuff up.

(Photo/Nancy Wolvovsky)

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And finally … in honor of the Sunrise Rotary Club’s “Westport Uncorked” event (story above):

(If you can’t find something to do in Westport, you’re not trying. Or you’re not reading “06880.” If you learn about our town — and town events — on this blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

12 Comments

Posted in Arts, Downtown, Local business, Obituaries, Politics

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Roundup: Jesup Lot Parking Plan, Dunville’s Update, Parks & Rec Registration …

Posted on February 22, 2024 | 16 comments

Parker Harding and Jesup Green parking plans are moving forward.

On March 6 (7:30 p.m., Zoom), the Flood & Erosion Control Board meets to consider the 2 riverside lots.

Forty-two additional spots are proposed for the Jesup Green (lower Westport Library) parking area. Work includes restriping, minor grading, the removal and relocation of some trees, and a new retaining wall.

The new spaces will replace those lost in the Parker Harding renovation, as it is brought into compliance with ADA and safety standards.

The site plan is below. For a larger version, and other material related to the Jesup and Parker Harding lot project, click here.

Click on or hover over to enlarge.

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After Tuesday’s “06880” Roundup report that Dunville’s closed suddenly last week, several readers noted that the Riverside Avenue’s Facebook page said: “Hi everybody, we’ll be closed for a little spring cleaning and then some vacation until Friday, March 1st. BRB!”

The post was accompanied by a photo of a Jimmy Buffett-style beach scene.

Usually, owners howl directly when I get something wrong. I reached out to Dunville’s owner before posting the story, but still have not heard back from him, or any representative.

Meanwhile, rumors are rampant in town that the popular, 40-year-old bar has been, or will be, bought by Little Pub.

I contacted the Little Pub owner for comment, but also did not hear back.

Dunville’s

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Parks & Recreation Department spring and summer programs are now viewable online (click here).

There are 2 online registration dates.

Tuesday, March 5 (9 a.m.) if for Camp Compo and RECing Crew only.

Wednesday, March 6 (9 a.m.) is for all other spring and summer programs. Registration also continues for Camp Compo and RECing Crew.

If a program is full, names can be added to the waitlist. There is no charge at that time.

Parents should click here to access their account.

Log into your profile and choose “Manage Family Member” on the bottom right. This brings you to the “My Family Members” page. Click on the first name in the column. In “Family Member Information,” verify date of birth, and make sure that children’s grades are correct (it is the grade going into as of September 2024). Hit “Save” at the bottom. Complete the process for every family member.

For address changes, email recreation@westportct.gov. Problems? Email recreation@westportct.gov or call 203-341-5152. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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Sons of the American Legion Squadron 63 have elected Andrew Colabella as squadron commander, and Mark Shornick as treasurer.

Both honor the legacy of family military service. All male descendants of US veterans who served honorably are eligible for membership,

Sons of The American Legion Squadron 63 is part of VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 on Riverside Avenue.

Mark Shornick and Andrew Colabella, at their Sons of American Legion Squadron 63 swearing-in.

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Want to be the next Stephen Sondheim?

You may not write “West Side Story,” “Gypsy” or “Into the Woods.” But — if you are at least 20 years old — you can do what Sondheim did when he was at Williams College: become a Westport Country Playhouse intern.

Applications are open through March 8 for the Joanne Woodward Internship Program. Interns work closely with Playhouse staff each summer — as they’ve done ever since the 1940s.

Opportunities are available in marketing, development/fundraising, general production, and community engagement. Interns also attend weekly seminars with guest speakers, including Playhouse staffers, visiting designers and artists, commercial producers and more.

This year’s program runs from May 28 through July 31. The stipend is $630 per week. Housing is provided, if needed. For more information and to apply, click here.

Stephen Sondheim (crouching, top of photo), during his 1950 apprenticeship. Also in the photo: future film director Frank Perry (front row, left) and Richard Rodgers’ daughter Mary (2nd row, 4th from left).

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between February 14 and 21.

A man was arrested for unlawful restraint, following an investigation into a domestic abuse complaint.

A man was arrested for threatening, after a complaint that the 18-year-old would kill his former partner.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5 complaints
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Failure to obey stop signs: 3
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Failure to remove snow/ice from roof: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 2
  • Failure to comply with dog ownership requirements: 1
  • Permitting a dog to roam at large: 1
  • School zone violation: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Unreadable plates: 1
  • Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1

So cute! But you can’t let dogs roam! (Photo/Helen Martin)

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Maple syrup season is near.

And Dasha Horton, Natalie Glidden and Sean Fitzpatrick are ready.

On February 24 and March 2 (10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wakeman Town Farm), they’ll talk about tapping and producing syrup, answer questions about how to tap trees at home, and show off WTF’s homestead-sized evaporator.

They’re all-weather farmers. Soo they’ll also answer questions about summer gardens.

The Maple Sugaring Days are free; go any time during the 2 sessions.

People of all ages love maple syrup — and making it.

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David Waldman discussed local real estate, at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club lunch.

The lifelong Westport, and founder and president of David Adam Realty, addressed 2 controversial projects: Glendinning Place, and Parker Harding .

David Waldman, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Ellin Curley)

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Hark! A hawk!

Johanna Keyser Rossi spotted this “Westport … Naturally” beauty at the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … Jimmy Van Eaton, Jerry Lee Lewis’ pounding drummer on “Great Balls of Fire” and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” died earlier this month in Alabama, of kidney complications. He was 86.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Goodness gracious! Come along baby! Please click here to support “06880.” Thank you kindly.)

16 Comments

Posted in Children, Downtown, Local politics, Police, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: 1 Glendinning Place, Our Town Crier, Floodplain Management …

Posted on January 25, 2024 | 13 comments

After input from neighbors, developers of 1 Glendinning Place have reduced the scope of plans for the property off Weston Road (mostly recently, offices of Bridgewater Associates).

The previous one had 14 units. The new plan includes 10 free-standing units, of 3,000 square feet each.

Two will house special needs affordable residents. There are 3 units in each. One of the 6 will be reserved for a live-in supervisor.

Developer David Waldman notes that this is similar to supportive housing at 136 Riverside Avenue.

The change at 1 Glendinning Place will allow Westport to obtain more 8-30g (affordable housing) moratorium points.

The next step: application to, and hearing with, the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Artists’ rendering shows 10 proposed homes (green) for 1 Glendinning Place. Click on or hover over to enlarge.

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Our Town Crier and Westport Marketplace have joined forces.

Now there’s one place for over 800 local listings — restaurants, retail, realtors, services (business, personal and home), and more — along with statewide information for categories like “Pizza Trail” and Valentine’s Day (places to eat and stay; things to do).

Betsy Pollak masterminds both. Click here to see; click here to sign up for the Westport Marketplace newsletter (monthly, plus special editions).

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The Westport Progress Report on Floodplain Management is complete.

It is prepared annually to enable Westport residents to receive a 10% reduction in their flood insurance. Flood Insurance is offered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to communities that participate in the Community Rating System. Click here to read the plan. 

Municipalities that participate in the CRS are ranked from 1 (highest) to 10. Classifications warrant what flood insurance rate reductions are offered. Westport’s ranking is 8.

Annual reports are required identifying how Westport is implementing the Western Connecticut Council of Governments Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan. Click here for the Westport report.

Local flooding is becoming more prevalent. This was the scene in a back yard earlier this month. (Photo/Meghan Norris)

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Alert reader Bob Mitchell writes:

“I recently enrolled in USPS Informed Delivery, a service that tells you every day what mail is being delivered to you.

“I was mildly interested until last Friday, when I was informed that I was receiving 6pieces of mail.

“The mailbox was empty. Since that day, none of the indicated pieces of mail have shown up. (The service shows you pictures of the mail pieces, so I know they haven’t arrived.)

“In addition, I had ordered 2 boxes of COVID test kits. On Friday I was informed by USPS in great detail the progress of the delivery of these kits, culminating in notice that the packages were delivered to my mailbox. I have never seen these packages either.

“I have reported the non-deliveries, but have had no response from USPS. I wonder if any others have had similar incidents.”

So, “06880” readers: Do you have USPS Informed Delivery? Have you experienced non-delivery? What are your options if you report them, but never hear back? Please click “Comments” to help Bob.

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This week’s League of Women Voters of Westport annual “Pie & Politics” event at Pizza Lyfe featured Westport’s 3 state legislators: Senator Ceci Maher, and Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson.

They updated attendees on issues expected to be debated this year in Hartford, including funding for voter education about early voting, support for polling staff, and the ballot initiative to amend the state constitution to offer no-excuse absentee voting. All 3 spoke passionately about protecting and expanding voters’ rights, and the importance of taking steps to improve voter turnout.

The discussion also included climate change, whether Connecticut should adopt an electric vehicle mandate to go into effect in 2035, and other initiatives to mitigate climate change and train a workforce for clean energy jobs.

The legislators spoke to the importance of looking at solar, geothermal, heat pumps, reskilling, and addressing housing shortages to attract clean energy companies and their employees.

Other topics included mental health policies, transportation, housing and education.

From left: State legislators Dominique Johnson, Jonathan Steinberg and Ceci Maher at Pizza Lyfe.

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The Westport Rotary Club heard an animated talk by Tommy Greenwald at this week’s lunch meeting.

Of course, anyone who knows Greenwald — the 1978 Staples High School soccer state champion/father of 3 sports-playing sons/Broadway marketer/young adult author knows that he lives his life in an animated way.

Greenwald writes often about the hyper-competitiveness and pressure of youth sports — for children and their parents. He told the Rotarians that his goal is to bring fun back into that stressful world, and show youngsters that the path to a well-balanced life does not totally revolve around the success of a team, or individual achievement on the field or court.

 

Tommy Greenwald (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between January 17 and 24.

A woman was arrested after she found a $550 MoneyGram on the ground, endorsed it using her real name and address, and deposited it in her bank account. She was afforded the opportunity to reimburse the victim but refused, and was charged with larceny.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5 citations
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle while texting: 2
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Reckless driving: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to drive right: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1
  • Failure to reinstate license within 60 days: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without proper load cover: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle in violation of license class: 1

Failure to secure a load can lead to a citation.

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Sure, it’s a church.

But the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport is the site of a “barn dance” this Sunday (January 28, after the service at approximately 11:30 a.m., until around 3 p.m.).

Billy Fisher will call the dance, with live music from Wry Bred. The event includes Cake Carousel and pizza.

Everyone is invited: all ages, all levels of experience. A recommendation donation of $5 per person, $15 per family covers entertainment costs.

Questions? Email mcelroy.cathy@gmail.com.

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MoCA’s 2nd Artisan Market (February 11, noon to 4 p.m.) features handcrafted items: bespoke jewelry, textiles, fine art and gourmet foods.

It’s a chance to purchase unique gifts before Valentine’s Day, while supporting local creators.

Staples musical sensation Ethan Walmark will entertain.

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Also at MoCA: Jazz musician Anthony Hervey, in concert February 27.

He has impressed audiences worldwide as a sideman for Christian McBride, Jon Baptiste, Michael Bublé and Wynton Marsalis (who called him a “beautiful trumpet player of first magnitude.”

He’ll be joined by saxophonist Markus Howell, pianist Isaiah J. Thompson, bassist Russell Hall and drummer Miguel Russell. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Anthony Hervey

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Patricia (“Patty”) Palmer died Sunday. She was 79.

The Bridgeport native graduated from St. Vincent’s School of Radiology in 1964.   She worked at Norwalk Hospital for over 40 years, first as a registered X-ray technician and then as a manager.

Patty lived in Westport for over 50 years, and raised 2 daughters here. She was involved in their Parent Teacher Association, and led their Brownie and Girl Scout troops.

She enjoyed reading at Compo and Burying Hill beaches, taking a wide range of local classes, and was a regular walker at Sherwood Island State Park.

Her favorite activities were dancing and travel. She met her husband David on the dance floor. They spent over 30 years traveling and sightseeing, especially in Cape Cod and the Caribbean.

Patty is survived by her husband of 35 years; daughters Kelley Swift and Megan Tibball (Jeff), all of Fairfield, and grandchildren Jordan and Brendan Tibball, and Jackson Swift.

Her family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the nurses and caregivers at Bridgeport Hospital who took good care of her, and made her final time peaceful and comfortable.

Visiting hours are Monday (January 29, 4 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home). A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Luke Church on Tuesday (January 30, 11 a.m.).

Patty Palmer

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All winter long, dogs are allowed on Compo Beach — and in the water.

These goldens enjoy the opportunity, oblivious they are the subjects of today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Deborah Herbertson)

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And finally … Melanie — the one-named, much-loved singer/guitarist/ songwriter of the late ’60s and early ’70s — died Thursday. She was 76. Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)

(Real estate news? Police reports? Obituaries? Whatever you’re looking for, it’s here at “06880.” This is your hyper-local blog — and it’s reader-supported. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

13 Comments

Posted in Environment, Local business, Obituaries, Police, Real estate

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From Glendinning To Bridgewater … And Next, A Few Homes?

Posted on November 28, 2023 | 24 comments

Over the past few years, a few big housing developments riveted Westport’s attention. There’s 1177 Post Road East, opposite Greens Farms Elementary School, for example, and 3 others in various stages of construction: 157 units on Hiawatha Lane Extension, 68 on Lincoln Street, and 16 more being shoehorned onto Wilton Road opposite Fort Apache on Kings Highway North.

Sometimes, Westport is handcuffed by state legislation that trumps local boards and commissions (and traffic and safety concerns). The driving force: the need for each town in Connecticut to provide a share of “affordable housing.”

1177 Post Road East

But local officials have been proactive. They’ve searched for sites where a new development might work (like the state maintenance facility between Walgreens and West Parish Road), and enacted zoning regulations to encourage “cluster cottage” housing on town-owned land.

All of that construction — already done, and planned — has one thing in common: It’s south of the Merritt Parkway. That’s where zoning enables its construction.

Recently, however, a unique property came on the market. It offers a chance for a small new development, with a decent-sized affordable housing element.

Glendinning Place is the 16-acre site first developed as an office park in the 1960s by Ralph Glendinning. His eponymous company was the first marketing promotion firm in the world.

(The wooded land next to the Saugatuck River — much of which he preserved —  had a long history with business. The Dorr-Oliver Company, which made chemicals and other products, was headquartered in a nearby former mill.)

One view of the Glendinning property …

Eventually, Bridgewater Associates became the office park’s tenant. The world’s largest hedge fund was famously secretive. Westporters barely noticed the firm, which departed over a year ago to consolidate all its operations at Nyala Farm, next to I-95 Exit 18.

Three partners — Westporter David Waldman, and New Haven-area Urbane Capital and Sachem Capital — purchased the property in September, for $10.6 million.

They’re leasing out the office space. But they saw a chance to use 3.7 acres to build 14 single-family, 2-story detached homes that they believe fill an unaddressed niche: 3-bedrooms, and just under 3,000 square feet.

Ten of those homes would be sold at market rates. The other 4 would be deed-restricted, as “affordable” (using state guidelines).

The developers need a text amendment. But they felt the timing and the site was right, for a small project including several affordable homes, on the only commercially zoned property north of the Merritt Parkway.

… and the office building.

Rick Redniss — whose Redniss & Mead land use and engineering firm is working on other local projects like Delamar Westport and The Clubhouse — is helping guide the project through the approval phase.

He calls it “an opportunity to add affordable housing in pretty innocuous ways. Generally, it’s very difficult to do that without an 8-30g proposal” — an often-adversarial process, pitting developers against the town.

However, he admits, “this is a balancing exercise. It always is, with housing in a Gold Coast town.”

Traffic concerns will be minimal, he says. Soil tests have been positive.

But feedback from neighbors — including concern about the septic threshold of 7,500 gallons a day — caused the partners to rethink the project.

They withdrew a planned text amendment application, as they reduce the number of homes. The goal remains to have 20% of them be affordable.

A new proposal and text amendment, and future meetings with neighbors, are in the works.

A previous rendering showed 14 homes built just below the top yellow line (underneath “Aspetuck Land Trust.” That number will be lower, in the next plan to be submitted.

Redniss remains convinced that Westporters want to do their share to provide affordable housing.

“I defended the town when it’s been attacked about housing,” he says. “Over the last 8 years, Westport has been proactive. It’s not ‘no’; it’s ‘let’s try to accomplish different ideas, and meet the diverse needs of the community.'”

Housing is a complex issue, he notes, involving everything from politics and zoning to history and tradition.

“Everyone has a responsibility to do their fair share,” he says. “This is a modest proposal. It’s not 150 units. It’s in a commercial zone.

“If we can’t do this here, where can we do it?”

Conceptual plans for the Glendinning homes.

(“06880” covers every aspect of Westport: real estate, business, politics, the environment, and more. Please click here to support hyper-local journalism. Thank you!)

24 Comments

Posted in Local business, Local politics, Real estate

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Sconset Square: New Identity For Old Shopping Center

Posted on October 10, 2022 | 8 comments

For decades since its construction more than 70 years ago, Sconset Square was — well, undefined.

Originally called Sherwood Square, the small plaza off Myrtle Avenue housed a random group of stores. The original Sport Mart, Carousel Toy Store, The Paint Bucket, a camera shop — all were there.

So was a tailor, travel agency and offices (including the Westport News).

A succession of restaurants succeeded the Pickle Barrel, which featured — yes — an actual pickle barrel.

That was then. Sconset Square, now, is very now.

Over the past few years, co-owners David Waldman and Roger Leifer transformed a gaggle of storefronts into a cohesive set of like-minded businesses. All share a common theme: high-end design, aimed at creative-type folks.

Waldman’s vision was for an artistic-type hub, drawing people together. The new mix of stores includes interior design, an art gallery, artisanal florist, jewelry and gifts. The new café/restaurant/bar, Casa Me, opens soon.

Renovations updated Sconset’s look, and unified the exteriors. The esthetic was light, yet New England-y.

Studio Cafe is a new Westport gathering spot.

“People who come here ‘get it,'” says Petra Barguss, an artist who handles the square’s social media.

“But not everyone knows how much has been done here.”

So next Saturday (October 15, noon to 5 p.m.), Sconset Square hosts a Fall Fete.

There will be a pizza truck, and live music by Tangled Vine. Every store will offer a special activity, from cider to raffles to a pumpkin toss.

Bungalow is a long-time tenant in Sconset Square.

Sconset Square has always lacked an identity — and signage.

The new signs are not yet up. But the identity is now strong. Here’s a quick look at the tenants:

UpNorth — Allison Daniels Design: Hand-crafted, custom jewelry and accessories.

Swoon: Contemporary art and photography; design services, furniture and antiques.

Yoya: Sources whimsical 0-12 children’s clothing and accessories from exclusive European brands.

Bespoke Designs: Elegant, personalized invitations and stationery; hotel silver, tableware and linens too.

Casa Me: Cocktails, an Italian menu, coffee; light, airy, with a long bar and outdoor dining.

Blossom + Stem: Fresh flower bouquets and arrangements for private homes, corporate events and weddings.

The Brady Collection: Curated collection of luxury wall coverings and textiles from boutique brands (appointment only).

Bungalow: Furniture, antiques, textiles, jewelry and books for decorators and clients.

The Tailored Home: Eclectic, locally bench-made furniture, mirrors and lighting, with upholstery fabrics.

Studio Café: Coffee and juice bar with Spanish dishes (empanadas, tortillas) plsu salads and sandwiches.

Jenni Kayne Home: Custom furniture, textiles and homeware in natural finishes; cashmere and alpaca loungewear, organic skincare balms and candles.

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Posted in Categories, Local business

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Roundup: Affordable Housing Meeting, Tyler Hicks, Vinyl …

Posted on April 11, 2022 | 2 comments

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Everyone in Westport has a stake in affordable housing.

For the first time, all 4 political parties — including the 2 formed around land-use issues — have joined to co-sponsor a forum. 

Tomorrow (Tuesday, April 12, 7 p.m., Town Hall and Zoom at www.westportct.gov), 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Planning & Zoning Commission chair Danielle Dobin host a community conversation about Westport’s “5-Year Affordability Plan.” It’s a joint effort of the Republican and Democratic Town Committees, Save Westport Now and the Coalition for Westport.

Among Westport’s affordable housing options: Sasco Creek Village.

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Six weeks after Russia invade Ukraine, Tyler Hicks continues to show the carnage to the world.

The 1988 Staples High School graduate — a Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times photographer — is now in Kramatorsk, where more than 50 civilians trying to flee the region were killed in a train station missile attack.

This is one of several striking images posted yesterday by the Times. Click here for more.

A worker cleans debris outside the Kramatorsk train station. (Photo/Tyler Hicks for the New York Times)

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A large crowd Saturday night helped launch what is believed to be the public library record label in the world.

The first vinyl on that first label is “Verso Records: Volume 1.” It’s a 500-copy compilation of emerging and established musicians in the tri-state region.

They play a variety of genres, including jazz, rock, folk, indie and hip hop. All tracks were recorded at the Library’s Verso Studios, a state-of-the-art, hybrid-analog SSL facility.

Chris Frantz — a founding member of Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club, and a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee — calls himself “a major fan of the Westport Library, and the creativity they’re cultivating in artists throughout the region.”

Tracks available for download include Daniprobably (indie pop band), Alexandra Burnet and the Stable Six (ethereal singer-songwriter and band), Ports of Spain, (indie rock) and the Zambonis (“hockey rock”).

The album also includes hip hop artists MIGHTYMOONCHEW and Dooley-O; post punk artists Lulu Lewis; new wave musician Nicki Butane; singer-songwriter Terri Lynn; the John Collinge Jazz Quartet; indie rockers Tiny Ocean; garage punk band The Problem with Kids Today, and roots Americana rock The Split Coils.

To view session recording videos at Verso Studios, click here.  To preorder the album, click here.

Tammy Winser was named winner of the album cover design contest, at VersoFest Saturday night. Her artwork is displayed behind her. (Photo/Jerri Graham)

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Two folks with longtime Westport roots have joined the board of the Remarkable Theater.

David Waldman will serve as co-president. Angela Wormser is the director of workforce.

Waldman and his wife Yvette have supported the the Remarkable Theater  since its inception. Since founding David Adam Realty in 1991, he has developed some of the area’s most important commercial properties, including Bedford Square and the west bank of the Saugatuck River. Waldman is also a past president of the Westport Downtown Association, and has sat on its board for almost 2 decades. He was also a board member of the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee.

Wormser, an educator with a strong background in special educaiton, will help expand the Remarkable’s mission of creating opportunities for people with disabilities.

Angela’s role will focus on helping expand The Remarkable’s mission of creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

The current board includes State Representative Jonathan Steinberg and filmmaker Douglas Tirola. Both have been members since the beginning of the Westport Cinema Initiative. Stacie Curran continues as vice president and secretary.

Angela Wormser and David Waldman

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When Pastor Alison Patton embarks on a sabbatical in June, Saugatuck Congregational Church welcomes a “theologian in residence.”

Jim Antal — a nationally recognized climate expert, and author of “Climate Church, Climate World,” will share his expertise with the congregation and greater community through conversations, discussions, lectures and sermons.

The church seeks housing for Antal and his wife for their 3-week stay in June (June 1-22). A donation of living space, bedroom and kitchen is ideal; an inexpensive rental is the second option.

Anyone offering either possibility should email Priscilla Long: pal9948@aol.com.

Saugatuck Congregational Church seeks housing for a guest pastor.

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On Saturday, the Westport Rotary Club participated in Westport Parks & Recreation Department Clean-Up Day.

Dozens of Rotarians began and the Compo Beach skatepark, then headed to the Longshore driving range.

They shouldn’t have to pick up after the rest of us. But they sure did a great job!

Part of the Westport Rotary Club, with part of their trash collection.

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Spring weather brought many Westporters outside, preparing their lawns and gardens for new growth.

Teenagers Leilani Fleming and Ellen Ou headed to Sherwood Island State Park. They planted grass shoots today, as part of an ongoing effort to shore up the shore.

Ellen Ou and Leilani Fleming, hard at work.

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Visitors to the famed Musée de l’Elysée in Lausanne, Switzerland — one of the world’s leading institutions entirely devoted to photography — enjoy many images.

Including 2 from Westporter Larry Silver.

They’re now more accessible to his neighbors. Silver is exhibiting at Fairfield University Art Museum’s Quick Center, in the “13 Ways of Looking at Landscapes” show.

Larry will be in a conversation there about his photos on Wednesday (April 20, 5 p.m.).

“Girl at Showers,” one of 2 Larry Silver images on display in Lausanne.

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Dr. Stephen Rubin, a Westport resident for over 55 years, died last week after a battle with cancer. The educational philosopher and innovator was 83.

After graduating from Samuel J. Tilden High School in Brooklyn, he studied education and general systems theory at Brooklyn College and New York University. where he earned his (first) Ph.D. in 1965.

At 23 Dr. Rubin, became the principal of Center School in New Canaan. He made an indelible mark on education, student success and the hearts and minds of multiple generations of students, faculty and other staff from 1965 until 1983, when it closed.

Under his direction, and with a strong staff of teachers and administrators, Center School became a social-educational experiment featured in national publications like Newsweek and the New York Times for its extraordinary atmosphere and remarkable outcomes.

After closing Center School, Rubin served as assistant superintendent of schools in New Canaan until his first retirement in 2003.

As founder and president of the Institute for General Systems Management, He brought his vision about elementary education to a national audience. He was a frequent speaker at The Aspen Institute. Rubin also authored the book Public Schools Should Learn to Ski: A Systems Based Approach to Education; it is still considered seminal reading at the Harvard School of Education.

In 1994 Rubin joined the administrative faculty at Sacred Heart University, where he was founder and director of Educational Leadership and Management. He retired in 2014.

He met Adrienne Jurow in 1959, when they both taught at the same school in Brooklyn. They married in 1961.

Rubin and his wife had homes in Ridgefield; Boynton Beach, Florida, and Truro, Massachusetts. He is survived by son Jason (Louise) and daughter Tory Miller (Robert), plus grandchildren Damon, Madison, Olivia, Alexandria and Trevor, and nephew Seth.

Dr. Stephen Rubin

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I try to run “Westport … Naturally” photos within a couple of days after receiving them. Timing is everything.

It’s especially important with this spring-is-here! photo from Hillspoint Road, by Suzanne Raboy. It illustrates beautifully why this is such a wondrous time of year here.

But — sadly — if I wait even a few days, it will be gone.

(Photo/Suzanne Raboy)

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And finally … On this day in 1727, Johann Sebastian Bach’s St Matthew Passion premiered at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig.

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Yoya: From The West Village To Sconset Square

Posted on March 18, 2022 | 2 comments

During her 20 years as owner of Yoya, Christina Villegas grew the West Village children’s fashion store into a 60-brand neighborhood mecca. It was a true community, with European fashions moms loved.

She enjoyed living in the city. But Colombia-born Christina and her Danish husband realized they needed more space for their children. They visited nearly every town on the water, in every direction from Manhattan.

Christina Villegas, with her daughters.

Westport was love at first sight. “The vibe, the people, the beauty, the beach — I just had a feeling this was the right place,” Christina says.

They bought a house that had been on the market a while. She commuted to Yoya, while also renovating her new home.

Then COVID struck. Her rent — which had already increased dramatically — proved too much to handle. Christina made the heartbreaking decision to close.

But as that West Village door closed, a new Westport door opened. Christina found 2nd-floor space in Sconset Square — above Bespoke Designs — to open a new Yoya.

Sconset Square Yoya, above Bespoke Designs.

That too felt right. She’s surrounded by “cool stores and creative people.” She loves the vibe that property owner David Waldman has created there.

Yoya highlights Christina’s multicultural perspective on children’s clothing, carrying nearly 2 dozen brands. She also offers fun women’s wear, and interior design.

The shop opened at the end of December. Customers are excited, the owner says. “There are some cute kids’ stores in Westport,” she notes. “But this really focuses on design and visuals.”

Christina Villegas, with some of her selections.

Sconset Square is not the West Village. But, Christina says, her New York neighborhoods “seemed like a small town.”

Now she’s in a real one. starting her second act on the second floor.

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Roundup: Business & Arts, Tom Kretsch, Glass Recycling …

Posted on February 23, 2022 | 13 comments

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Two of our town’s most powerful engines are business and the arts.

The Westport Library brings both together on Wednesday, March 9 (7 p.m., in-person and Zoom). The event is called “Exploring the Intersection of Arts and Business.”

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker leads a discussion with commercial developer David Waldman, architect Rick Hoag and business owner Andrea Pecoriello. Click here for details, and to register.

Bedford Square — built by David Waldman — is home to many businesses, including permanent and pop-up art galleries. This is Sorelle.

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Admit it: We’re all stressed. We’d love to go to Maine to relax — or even cherished local spots, like the beach.

We can’t always do that. But if you’ve got even a bit of free time, head over to Gordon Fine Arts (1701 Post Road East, across from Goodwill).

The gallery features “A Symphony of Sea and Sand,” Westport photographer Tom Kretsch’s soothing shots from here and Maine.

And if you can’t get there, click here for Tom’s equally soothing website.

(Photo/Tom Kretsch)

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The transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector has a new recycling container.

It’s for glass — specifically beverage and condiment bottles, and juice and fruit jars. Glass should be rinsed, and lids removed.

Unacceptable items include mirrors, drinking glasses, ceramic cups and plates, clay flower pots, crystal, light bulbs, window glass and ovenware.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Howard Maynard died Sunday in Westport. He had lived here for 62 years.

After serving with the military in Korea for almost 2 years, Howard graduated from the University of California at Berkeley. He worked for Westinghouse in Bridgeport, then for 3 decades for Exxon in New York, in computer applications. He spent 4 years in London, where he developed an email system for the company.

After Exxon, he applied his knowledge and skills to Young & Rubicam in New York.

Howard was a skilled craftsman in his wood shop and darkroom. He loved chamber music and cars.

He served on many boards, including Human Services, the Westport Weston Health Department and Westport Library. He was proud of assisting with the library’s renovation.

His family says that Howard “lived a long and peaceful life. He was spare with his words and logical with his thinking. He fervently expressed gratitude for all he was given and obtained during his life — proud of his career and his post-retirement volunteer work for Westport.

“What really mattered to Howard, however, was his family, especially Mary, his wife of 65 years. They made the most of their time together, traveling often and widely.

Mary survives him, as do their children Douglass Maynard, Mallory McGrath and Allison deVaux and 7 grandchildren.

He donated his body to Yale Medical School. No services are planned. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Regional Hospice in Danbury.

Howard Maynard

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows a scene any cat owner knows well: Michael Catarevas’ Licorice stuck inside, watching a squirrel chipmunk race by outdoors.

“If only…!” the cat is thinking. The squirrel chipmunk, of course, is oblivious.

(Photo/Michael Catarevas)

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And finally … Gary Brooker died Saturday, at 76, after battling cancer.

He was Procol Harum’s singer, pianist and composerin . The British band’s “A Whiter Shade of Pale” is one of the most memorable from the 1967 Summer of Love. It’s #57 on Rolling Stones “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” and is in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

But Procol Harum was much more than just that Bach-derived song with haunting, mystical lyrics. They played and toured for 50 years. And in 2003 — in recognition of his charitable service — Queen Elizabeth made Gary Brooker a Member of the Order of the British Empire. Click here for a wonderful obituary.

 

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Westport Arts: Adding Diversity, Color

Posted on October 3, 2021 | 3 comments

Westport’s arts scene has a long, vibrant history.

Okay, to be honest: It’s a long, vibrant, white history.

The men and women who — from the early 1900s on — made our town a magnet for illustrators, painters, sculptors and others were (like the rest of the town) largely Caucasian.

But our town’s heritage includes important contributions from (and exploitation of) people of color. The arts today must reflect more than one perspective.

The Westport Arts Advisory Committee is addressing those issues in two big ways.

In the alley between Main Street and Bedford Square are floodgates no longer in use. David Waldman — the developer of the mixed-use center between Main Street and Church Lane — asked the WAAC how the gates could look more attractive.

The arts organization commissioned 5 artists to turn them into a history of our town: Westporters Eric Chiang, Jana Irejo and Rebecca Ross, Norwalk’s Hernan Garcia and Iyaba Mandingo of Bridgeport.

At 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 16, the WAAC will unveil their 5 paintings at the Main Street entrance to the Bedford Square courtyard. The works include early life among Native Americans, and Black life and culture here.

A “concept slide” of what the floodgate art might look like. These are not the finished pieces.

In addition, the WAAC — working with the Westport Public Art Collections — has acquired several pieces by artists of color.

Among them: art by Charles Joyner.

A professor at North Carolina State University College of Art and Design, and a noted collagist whose colorful, culturally symbolic work incorporates themes from his extensive travels to Ghana, he’s no stranger to Westport.

In 1964 he came to Westport through an American Friends Service program that brought 35 Southern students to the North to promote integration. Joyner lived with the Ader family.

After graduating from Staples High School he headed to Iowa State University on a football scholarship, transferred to North Carolina A&T, then earned a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro.

Joyner’s, and other newly acquired art, will be part of the WPAC’s first-ever public showing of dozens of works at MoCA Westport. The event opens January 28, and runs through March 13.

Charles Joyner’s mixed media work “Village @ Ntoso” has been acquired by the Westport Public Art Collections.

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“06880, The Podcast”: David Waldman

Posted on May 3, 2021 | 5 comments

The inaugural episode of “0688o: The Podcast” was a hit. I chatted with superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice about how he came here, his challenges and joys, and what’s ahead for the district.

This week’s guest — David Waldman — is a native Westporter. He too has a huge impact on our town. He’s the developer behind Bedford Square, and the new offices and condos on the west side of the Saugatuck River. He’s revitalized Sconset Square, and turned an old bank into Patagonia.

There’s much more he’d love to do, in the town he loves. I asked him about Westport — what works, what doesn’t, and why — and he answered candidly.

We had a great time at the Westport Library’s Verso Studios. Click here to see my interview with David Waldman.

When you’re done, you’ll never look at downtown the same way again.

Screenshot of David Waldman on “06880: The Podcast.”

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