Three Democrats are running for the Board of Education.
In a normal year, party leaders would be delighted.
But this is not a normal year.
Because the Town Charter limits one political party to a bare majority — 4 seats — on the 7-member board, and because Democrats Lee Goldstein and Neil Phillips are in the middle of their 4-year terms, only 2 Democrats can be elected. Jill Dillon, who won a seat 2 years ago as an unaffiliated write-in candidate, is in the middle of her term too.
In March, the Democratic Town Committee interviewed several candidates for the Board of Ed. They chose incumbent Abby Tolan, and Representative Town Meeting deputy moderator Lauren Karpf.
Abby Tolan
Dissatisfied with those choices, Democrats Stephen Shackelford and Jodi Harris — an attorney and former Staples High School PTA president, respectively — opted to run as petitioning candidates.
They secured the signatures of over 400 registered Democrats, and will appear with Tolan on the party line this fall. (Shackelford had interviewed with the DTC for a Board of Ed endorsement in March, but was not selected.)
Karpf, meanwhile, bowed out of the race. She is running again for the RTM (in a new district, after moving).
The DTC opted not to replace Karpf. That leaves Tolan as the sole party- endorsed candidate.
Shackelford and Harris say that party officials are steering clear of their campaign. They tell “06880”:
“We’re proud to be running as Democrats for the Westport Board of Education this November. We are members of the Democratic Party, but we believe our campaign for common-sense solutions and results-driven oversight on the BOE transcends partisan lines.”
However, they note, “Our most significant hurdle is coming from within our own party.
“We secured our places on the Democratic ballot line not through appointment, but by gathering more than 400 signatures each from registered Westport Democrats. This feat represents a strong, grass-roots mandate for new voices on our BOE.”
Yet, they say, “despite this clear demonstration of support from the rank-and-file, the Westport Democratic Town Committee has taken a remarkable step: It has provided us with zero support — financial, logistical, or otherwise.”
Stephen Shackelford and Jodi Harris
Even worse, Shackelford and Harris say, “the DTC appears to be actively campaigning for voters to ‘bullet vote’ only for (Tolan), despite the risk that doing so could result in Democrats winning only 1 of the 2 available spots.”
There are 4 seats up for contention, but the Democrats are limited to only 2 winning candidates. There are 5 Republicans running for 4 seats. Four were endorsed by the Republican Town Committee: incumbent Dorie Hordon, plus Andy Frankel, Michelle Hopson and Kaitlin Zucaro.
Incumbent Robert Harrington was not endorsed by the RTC. He is running as an independent write-in candidate. If the 4 Republicans win, they would take control of the BOE from the current 4 Democrats.
Shackelford and Harris say that the Democratic Town Committee is not the only political body to ignore their campaign.
“This campaign of exclusion extends to local party-affiliated groups.” the pair say.
“The Democratic Women of Westport, which we understand is meant to operate independently, has publicly promoted our opponent’s events to its members, but is refusing to include our upcoming events in its member communications.
“In short, the Democratic Party in Westport is telling its own registered voters that the grassroots effort from 2 newcomers doesn’t matter. They do not want you to hear from candidates who challenge their status quo.”
“06880” reached out to DTC chair Michelle Mechanic for comment.
She says: “The Westport Democratic Town Committee is committed to getting the most qualified Democratic candidates elected up and down the ballot, and maintaining the majority on our boards and commissions.
“With 2 spots available for Democrats on the Board of Education we urge you to vote for Abby Tolan, the vetted and endorsed candidate (whom the authors interestingly state is their opponent) and one other Democrat of your choosing.”
“06880” also asked the Democratic Women of Westport for comment. As of late last night, there was no response.
Students design an app using any programming language on any platform, with no limits on topic or function. Winners from each congressional district have their apps featured online — and in the US Capitol.
And the winners this year for Connecticut’s 4th Congressional District are … Rohan Sareen and Sahil Vora.
The Staples High School sophomores’ app — “Neighborly Impact” — was selected by Representative Jim Himes, for its innovation, design and real-worldl impact.
The app allows neighbors to connect, and get items, medicine, and services.
Rohan and Sahil — the first Staples students to win the contest — are finalizing several safety features. It will then be released to the public.
Himes honored the enterprising pair last month in Washington, at the #HouseofCode ceremony.
Sahil Vora, Rohan Sareen and Congressman Jim Himes, in Washington.
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Saturday was “Clean Up Westport Day.”
To celebrate, members of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 399, and the VFW Auxiliary, picked up litter and beautified nearby Riverside Avenue.
“Our members are proud to give back to Westport,” says VFW quartermaster Phil Delgado. “Events like this allow us to stay connected to the town, and each other.”
Cleaning up at the VFW (from left): Bob Rogers, Janice Veno, Frank Veno, Steve Jenkins, Buyile Rani, Betsy Shoupm Phil Delgado. Photo/ Patty Kondub)
On the other side of the river, the Democratic Women of Westport (and one Democratic Man) cleaned up Grace Salmon Park.
Rear, from left: Nancy Axthelm, Tracy Porosoff, Allyson Stollenwerck, Becky Martin, Abby Tolan. Front: Sal Liccione. Not pictured: Candace Banks, Jessica Hill, Joan Gillman.
Speaking of clean-ups: Josh Berkowsky wants to organize another one.
He and the Saugatuck Congregational Church usually help out at Riverside Park. However, there’s a (good) problem: It’s improved dramatically over the past few years. There’s considereably less trash there. (Thanks, Parks & Rec Department!)
Josh has been checking out new spots. But he doesn’t know every place in Westport. So he asked “06880” to help find “trash-covered waterways or shorelines.”
If you know of one for Josh, the Church (and others — maybe you?) to tackle, email jberkowsky1@gmail.com. Put “Trash” in the subject line.
Speaking of the environment: Bike Westport sends along news of the Drive-Less Challenge.
Sponsored by CTRides, the event promotes alternatives to driving. There are more than most people realize: train, bus, scooter, carpool, vanpool, bike, walk, telecommute.
And, in Westport, Wheels2U.
For every 17 car trips eliminated, CTRides will plant 1 tree.
Need an incentive beyond helping the environment? Just download the “CTRides” app, or click here. Record your non-car trips, from now through May 31.
For every 1+ trips, you’re eligible to win 1 of 10 $25 gift cards. For 20 or more trips, you can win 1 of 4 $100 cards. For 30+ trips, you can win 1 of 2 $250 gift cards — and for 50 or more trips, you’re eligible for a $500 card.
As of yesterday, CTRides recorded 9,518 car trips eliminated; 149,953 miles, $104,967 and 6,606 gallons of gas saved. So far too, 559 trees will be planted.
Speaking of the beach: It’s not too early to think about the fireworks.
And to worry about them.
Alert reader Sunil Hirani sent a news article about President Trump’s tariffs. It notes that over 90% of fireworks used in the US are imported — and 95% of those imports come from China.
“06880” reached out to Corporal Craig Bergamo, president of the Independence Day’s longtime sponsor, Westport PAL.
He replied quickly. He’s checked with his fireworks guy, who says everything is okay.
Party on!
(Photo/Elissa Moses)
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Over 225 people enjoyed the next best thing to Creedence Clearwater Revival Saturday night, at the Westport Library.
Green River — the CCR/John Fogerty tribute band — rocked all their hits.
It was part of “Supper & Soul,” the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s ongoing series that combines dinner at one of 11 restaurants, a concert, and after-party drinks.
Next up for the Chamber: the much-loved Dog Festival, May 18 at Winslow Park.
Green River, at Supper & Soul. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)
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For a cemetery, there’s a lot of life at Willowbrook.
JC Martin offers today’s lively “Westport … Naturally” shot, of a mallard in the water just off Main Street:
(Another Monday, another week of “06880” Roundups. They’re informative and fun … but they don’t just fall from the sky. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Chris Swan reports that 3 osprey nest platforms are back in operation, with pairs in evidence over the weekend.
He spotted them on New Creek, in the Burying Hill Beach marsh adjacent to Beachside Common homes; directly behind the Sherwood Island Nature Center along the tidal estuary that forms the state park’s northern boundary, and in the marsh grass on the eastern shore of Sherwood Mill Pond, a couple of hundred feet north of Compo Cove.
Chris has not yet seen activity on the marsh grass at the end of Grove Point Road, on a peninsula opposite the state Department of Energy & Environmental Protection air quality shack on Sherwood Island.
New Creek osprey platform. (Photo/Chris Swan)
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Will national politics damage Westport’s local governance traditions?
That’s a question the Democratic Women of Westport will ask — and hope to answer — at an April 22 forum (7 p.m., Westport Women’s Club).
Speaker Paul Kahn is a professor at Yale School, and author of “Democracy in America: Can We Still Govern Ourselves?” He has studied the effect first hand, in his own Connecticut town.
Kahn’s talk will be followed by a panel discussion with current Representative Town Meeting moderator Jeff Weiser, and his predecessor Velma Heller.
The public — Democrats, Republicans and unaffiliated voters — is welcome. If you’ve got a question for the panel, or to RSVP, email DWW06880@gmail.com
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Dave Briggs and Alisyn Camerota have done it again.
The Wesrporters — experienced journalists who have just launched “Sanity,” a national podcast on a wide array of important topics — sat down the other day with Craig Carton.
The Fox Sports and WFAN host has been open about how his gambling addiction led to a prison term for securities fraud.
With March Madness in full swing, Carton is a timely guest. Americans will bet $3 billion on the NCAA men’s basketball tournament.
A not-insignificant amount of that money is wagered (and lost) by teenagers.
Carton gave Briggs and Camerota an eye-opening look at America’s gambling culture, and its impact on adolescents.
He provides strong advice, too. It begins with: Don’t let your kid use your account.
Click below to see the episode. Click here to listen on Spotify.
Not the one that keeps the high school safe from hackers, intruders and other bad actors. (Though they do a very good job of it.)
No — this cybersecurity team is the one composed of students. And — out in the open — they recently took part in the prestigious Lockheed Martin CyberQuest Competition, at Sikorsky headquarters in Stratford.
Hundreds of students attempt to solve cybersecurity challenges designed by Lockheed Martin cybersecurity engineers.
The “Capture the Flag” format includes multi-step intrusion scenarios, steganography, reverse engineering, full OS hacks, packet capture, web exploits, social engineering, and cybersecurity awareness.
Staples was the youngest team there. And the only one new to the event.
No problem!
After 3 hours of vigorous hacking they piled up 2,150 points. They won by a massive 400 points, bringing the coveted CyberQuest belt to Westport.
And Jacek Nieweglowski was named Best Coach of the competition.
Congratulations to Jacek, and team members Ignacy Nieweglowski, Sahil Vora, Rohan Sareen and Ezra Schwartz.
Sounds like you could show Mike Waltz and Pete Hegseth a thing or two.
From left: Rohan Sarren, Ezra Schwartz, Sahil Vora Ignacy Nieweglowski,
Last week, “06880” featured Lynsey Addario’s page 1 New York Times photo, from Ukraine.
The 1991 Staples High graduate is a Pulitzer Prize- and MacArthur “genius grant” photojournalist, who has shot images from wars and danger spots around the world.
But Westporters don’t need to read the Times to see her work.
A collection of stunning images of Afghan women is on display at the Senior Center.
Titled “Veiled Rebellion,” they were donated by Addario to the Westport Public Art Collections. Their provenance is impressive: They were first exhibted at the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo, in 2012.
The text accompanying the photos is from a National Geographic story, written by Addario in 2012.
Additional images from “Veiled Rebellion” are on display at the Westport Library. (Hat tip: Jeff Jacobs)
Chabad of Westport hosts Glenn Cohen — a hostage debrief team leader, and former Mossad chief psychologist — for a “Candid Conversation” on April 23 (7:30 p.m.).
He’ll discuss the release of hostages from Hamas captivity, including first hand insights into what the captives endured and how they coped, while debunking common myths about captivity.
Noted jazz trumpeter Alex Norris headlines this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, April 3; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; VFW Post 399; $20 music cover, $15 for veterans and students).
He’s joined by bassist Joris Teepe, pianist Greg Murphy, drummer Steve Johns, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.
Whenever he offers a nature photograph for our “Westport … Naturally” feature, we’re all a winner.
Today he sends an American pussy willow, and a friend.
(Photo/Lou Weinberg)
Lou explains: “A very early bloomer, it provides native bees, honeybees and other pollinators with critical late winter/early spring energy, in the form of nectar and pollen.
“What appears to be oversized saddlebags are pollen sacks that the bees bring back to the hive to share.
“These pictures were taken at the Long Lots Preserve, surrounding the Westport Community Gardens on Hyde Lane. In addition to pussy willow, dozens of other native trees, shrubs and wildflowers have been planted to support this very successful environmental rehabilitation project.
“The Long Lots Preserve is a model for what can be done in any neglected green open space. It is a tremendous hands-on environmental educational resource.”
(“06880” — your 24/7/365, hyper-local blog — relies on reader support. That’s no joke! If you enjoy our work — and even if we fooled you this morning — please click here to help. Thank you!)
The Westport Fire Department responded yesterday afternoon to a house fire on Tarone Drive. One resident was injured, and taken to Norwalk Hospital.
The WPD reminds everyone to ensure they have working smoke detectors in their homes.
Dayling Savings Time begins at 2 a.m. Sunday morning. Move your clocks forward one hour! Whenever you change your clocks, remember to change your batteries!
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More than half a century after graduating from Staples High School, I made my Players debut.
I was a guest speller last night in their production of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”
It was short-lived. I got knocked out on my first word: kumis. As I sure as heck did not know, the fermented milk drink from Central and East Asia is spelled not with a “c,” but with a “k.” (It’s also known as koumis or kumyz, neither of which I would have gotten either.)
Yours truly being given a loser’s prize by Mitch Mahoney (Yusef Abdallah), after failing in the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
My fellow guest spellers — 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Staples principal Stafford Thomas and Bedford Acting Group director Ryan Smith — lasted longer than I did.
Neither of them won, either. (Spoiler alert: No guest speller has ever won, in the history of the Broadway show. It’s rigged!)
“Older” spellers (from left) Stafford Thomas, Dan Woog, Jen Tooker and Ryan Smith, on stage with the Staples cast, who are much better spellers (and actors).
But boy, did we have fun. Thank you, Players directors David Roth and Kerry Long, for the invitation. And great job Players, making us all feel welcome!
The show continues today (Saturday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, March 9, 2 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.
Leaf Coneybear (Cooper Gusick, center) entertains Staples principal Stafford Thomas and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker. (All photos/Kerry Long)
Chef Brian Lewis — whose OKO and The Cottage are Westport favorites — was recently named a semifinalist for the James Beard Award (“Best Chef Northeast” category).
Now he’s introducing a new dining experience.
The OKO-KASE menu includes Popcorn Dashi Lions Mane, Hokkaido Uni, Osetra Caviar, Bread and Butter Lobster, Passion Fruit and Stracciatella
Black Truffle Chawanmushi.
That’s followed by a selection of nigiri sushi, hand rolls, and flavorful dishes like Chili-Lime King Crab Hand Roll, St. Canut Pork Belly with Walnut Miso and Fermented Apple Butter, and Yuzu White Chocolate Huckleberry Kiss.
The price is $200 per guest; $75 sake pairing per guest. Reservations (203-557-8404) require 48-hour notice, and a $50 deposit per guest.
Westport escaped major damage in yesterday’s high winds.
Residents of Hickory Drive were not as lucky, however. Power went out when a tree took down live wires.
(Photo/Ron Poserina)
Winds continue today, 20 to 30 mph, with occasional gusts over 40. The temperature will be in the mid 40s.
The week ahead looks good. Tuesday could see 60 degrees.
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Last year, Rach’s Hope Walk the Extra Mile raised more than $20,000. The funds helped the non-profit that supports families with critically ill children in the ICU with an additional 100 nights of hotel stays, so parents can rest and recharge while staying close to their kids.
Rach’s Hope — which honors Rachel Doran, the Staples High School graduate and rising Cornell University senior, who died after developin a rare reaction to common medications — is getting ready for their 6th annual Rach’s Hope PJ Gala.
(Rachel was a talented Staples Players costume designer, and founded a pajama company.)
The date is Saturday, March 29 (7 to 11 p.m., FTC, Fairfield). Click here for tickets.
Festivities include an open bar with Tito’s cocktails, beer, wine and prosecco; heavy appetizers and desserts by AMG Catering; live music kicked off by Westport’s own Michael Cantor and Frog Salon, plus Rach’s Hope’s signature band, Ellis Island — and live and silent auctions too.
The Staples High School freshman was the only 9th grader in the entire country to win the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy annual Civics Challenge His entry was Crafting Change: The Art of Lawmaking in Congress.
The Civics Challenge is a very competitive national contest open to students in grades 6 through 12. Participants demonstrate civics knowledge through essays, short videos or original songs.
Tucker — one of just 10 winners nationwide — earned a $500 prize.
And the admiration of everyone who mourns the loss of civics education in America today.
Speaking of education: Adam Shapiro recently spent 2 days at Greens Farms Academy.
The noted actor (“The Bear,” “Never Have I Ever,” “Waitress”)was the school’s 2025 Hartwell Visiting Artist.
Shapiro presented at student assemblies, delivered a keynote to parents on “Cultivating Creativity,” coached the Middle School cast of “Frozen Jr.,” and shared his stories and advice about building a career in the arts.
Click here to read more about Shapiro’s visit. Click below for a highlight reel:
Speaking of school: Congratulations too to Weston High School’s robotics team!
They won the engineering design Innovate Champion Award at the state robotics championship recently.
That earned them a spot at the VEX Robotics World Championships in Dallas in May. Good luck to the squad: Emily Arias, Angela Zhao, Joshua Miranda and Cooper Schleef.
Connecticut Attorney General William Tong — an early opponent, with counterparts across the country, of some of President Trump’s first funding cuts — is the guest at the Democratic Women of Westport’s annual Souper Luncheon.
The event is March 28 (11:30 a.m.). The DWW invites the public to join the AG, and learn more about his work on behalf of state residents. To RSVP, email dww06880@gmail.com.
On April 22, the Democratic Women sponsor a forum with Yale Law School professor Paul Kahn, author of Democracy in Our America: Can We Still Govern Ourselves? He’ll be joined in conversation by the Representative Town Meeting’s current and former moderators, Jeff Wieser and Velma Heller.
Connecticut Attorney General William Tong.
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Saugatuck Congregational Church host’s Connecticut’s first “Music for Food” concert (March 16, 3 p.m.), with classical pianist Emma Tahmizian.
The Bulgarian musician debuted internationally at age 11, at a concert series in Moscow. She has performed and recorded regularly, since winning the 1977 Robert Schumann Competition.
The event is free, but donations are accepted. All proceeds benefit Homes with Hope, to support area residents facing food insecurity.
Emma Tahmizian
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The Gallery @ Green’s Farms Church welcomes photographer Sally Harris, and her latest work: “The Colors and Culture of Oaxaca.”
The show runs from March 14 to May 14. An opening reception is March 14 (6 to 8 p.m.). For more information, click here.
Speaking of art: Brian Whelan’s work is always a highlight of our “06880” online gallery.
Now it’s on view at Trinity Church Wall Street, in New York.
“Holy City” is a series inspired by medieval artwork, contemporary expressionism, and Whelan’s Catholic roots. blending the temporal and the spiritual.
The 9-panel painting at the center of the exhibit depicts Christianity, Islam and Judaism existing in harmony, with houses of worship supporting and uplifting one another.
The exhibit is open through March 18. Click here for more information.
Speaking still of the arts: A large crowd learned a lot at Thursday’s Malloy Fund for the Arts’ presentation “Reimagined: Westport as an Arts Town, Past, Present and Future.”
Actor James Naughton moderated a panel, with Miggs Burroughs, Melissa Newman and Meloday James.
Ann Sheffer — a passionate arts advocate and philanthropist (and donor Susan Malloy’s niece), whose family’s contributions helped shape Westport’s cultural fabric — also spoke.
If you missed it: no worries. Just click below, to see the entire event.
The Westport Astronomical Society will be open from 1 a.m. to 3:40 a.m. (weather permitting) on March 14, to observe the total lunar eclipse.
In other WAS news, the next free online lecture features Sarah Elizabeth McCandless. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory navigation engineer discusses “Exploring an Icy World with Europa Clipper.”
Sure, you and 110 million other people watched the Kansas City Chiefs win (another) Super Bowl last night.
But they also saw Dr. Clarence Jones’ 30-second PSA, which aired during the game.
Sponsored by the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, it offered a powerful platform for Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s speechwriter to declare: “All hate thrives in silence.”
StartUp Westport and Westport 10 celebrates Black History Month with a special event.
“Past, Present and Future Opportunities for Diverse Entrepreneurs” (February 29, 6 p.m., Westport Library) spotlights the contributions and experiences of local business owners of color.
StartUp Westport is the town’s public/private partnership whose goal is to make our town the tech entrepreneurial hub of Connecticut. Westport 10 is a social and networking group for Black men in town, and their families.
NBC news anchor (and Westport resident) Craig Melvin is the moderator. Jay Norris — founder of Westport 10 — has assembled an all-star panel, including Kal Amin, Wesly Saintil Arbuthnott, Eric Freeman, Ilka Gregory, Craig Livingston, Adam Moore, Pamela Moss, Paige Parker, Ted Parker, Michele Peterson and Kitt Shapiro.
They are business leaders from a variety of industries, including film/TV, music, real estate, retail, technology, food and beverage, and financial services.
The evening kicks off with a video presentation showcasing the history of
diverse entrepreneurship in Fairfield County. Following the panel, attendees can network during a cocktail reception.
On Friday, Westport Library’s Verso Studios’ Brendan Toller interviewed Talking Heads founding members and drummer Chris Frantz and bassist Tina Weymouth. at a screening of the remixed and remastered 40th anniversary version of Jonthan Demme’s Talking Heads Concert Film “Stop Making Sense.”
The large crowd sang along, lustily. The event was a benefit for April’s VersoFest, and WPKN.
Brendan Toller interviews former Talking Heads Tina Weymouth and Chris Frantz. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
Wakeman Town Farm aficionados know him (every Tuesday) as Tony Pizza Napolitano.
But Anthony Kesselmark – his real name — is more than just a one-trick pizza pony. He studied at the Culinary Institute of America, and made his name at L’Impero and Veritas in New York before moving to the ‘burbs.
On Sunday, March 10 he serves WTF’s first Italian family-style feast.
The menu includes a classic Italian salad; homemade bread/focaccia; traditional Sunday sauce served over rigatoni with braciole, meatballs, pork chops, sausage and breaded chicken cutlets, and assorted cookies and pastries.
There are 2 seatings: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., and 7 to 9 p.m. The $60 price includes food and service ($25 for children 12 and under); BYOB.
Click here for more information, and to reserve a spot.
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Some fundraising galas are dress-up. Some are “cocktail attire.”
The dress code for Rach’s Hope’s annual event is: pajamas.
On March 23 (The Warehouse, Fairfield), guests can come in “pajama chic.” Rachel Doran — the Staples High School graduate who died in 2018 as a rising Cornell University senior after a rare reaction to common medications — was a talented Staples Players costume designer, and the founder of “Rachel’s Rags,” a company that makes intricate cotton and fleece pajama tops and bottoms.
The night of food (from AMG Catering and Tito’s Cocktails), fun and dancing to live music raises money for Rach’s Hope. The non-profit supports local families navigating the critical illness of a child by providing nutritious food, lodging, transportation, and encouragement so they can focus on being present for their ailing children.
Click here for more information, and to purchase tickets or donate.
Little Leaguers can get ready for the spring baseball season — and support the Staples Baseball Diamond Club booster organization — at a spring clinic March 6 (6 to 8 p.m., Staples fieldhouse)
Boys and girls in grades K-7 can have fun with Staples coaches and players, who run drills and games. Participants will be separated by grade and skill level. The event is hosted by the Staples baseball program.
The $40 fee includes a slice of pizza. To register, Venmo @StaplesBBDiamondClub by March 1. Include the player’s name, grade and parent email in the memo line. Registration after March 1 is $50 per player. Players should bring a bat, glove and water bottle.
A “Histoury” bus tour of historic Weston homes is set for March 10 (1 to 4:30 p.m.).
It features mid-century modern homes. They were radical and controversial at the time. Today they are enjoyed for their simplicity, creativity and integration with nature.
The tour includes several interior stops.
Tickets are $75 for adults, $49 for students. For more information and to purchase, click here.
The Wilton Arts Council is seeking photographers of all ages for its 24th annual photography exhibit, “FOCUS ’24” — and Westporters are encouraged to apply.
Last year’s 2nd place high school winner was Westport resident Charlie Lukens. The adult division also included several Westport photographers.
There are 3 divisions: adults (professional and amateur), high school and youth (“old enough to hold a camera through 8th grade”).
Photographers can submit up to 2 film or digital images, in color or black and white. They may be enhanced by darkroom or digital techniques, but additional objects not photographed by the photographer cannot be added.
Entries will be judged by area photographers. Submissions can be dropped off at the Wilton Library on March 15 (noon to 5 p.m.) and March 16 (10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.). They must be at least 8″ x 10″, and wired for hanging. There is no maximum size. Photos will be available for sale throughout the exhibit; the Wilton Library will receive a 20% commission
Sponsors include Rockwell Art & Framing in Westport.
Click here for more details, entry forms and fee information. Questions? Email baswilton@yahoo.com, or call 203-834-9986.
“Eleuthera,” by Charlie Lukens
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There is something fishy about today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, taken at Compo’s South Beach …
And finally … on this day in 1938, BBC Television produced the world’s first science fiction television program. It was an adaptation of a section of the Karel Čapek play “R.U.R.,” which coined the term “robot.”
(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. Please support us, with a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here — and thank you!)
The sale of 233 Hillspoint Road — site of the former Café de la Plage and Positano restaurants, but for the past several centuriesdecades years a half-finished, Tyvek-wrapped, litigation-snarled residential property that’s been an eyesore and headache for neighbors and passersby — closed last week.
Work has already begun to finish the home.
It may take a while. But whenever it’s done, all of “06880” will rejoice.
Meanwhile, there’s more going on in that historic neighborhood.
Old Mill Grocery & Deli by Romanacci has posted its menu online — and it’s an extensive one.
There are many lunch and dinner favorites from the popular Railroad Place restaurant, plus lots of breakfast items. Catering options are available too. Click here to see.
A grand opening is set for this Saturday (February 10, noon to close). “Celebrate with us, and taste a slice of Italy,” say the new operators, who had a soft opening last month in their newly renovated space — which dates back to 1919.
The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee has a full agenda for tomorrow’s meeting (Thursday, February 8, 8:30 a.m., Town Hall Room 201).
It includes: parking lots reinvention; downtown lots design master plan; Parker Harding status; Jesup and Imperial lots; other projects status, Avery Street pole removal, and sustainability.
On the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee agenda: the Imperial Avenue parking lot. From 2020-22, it was the site of the Remarkable Theater drive-in. This photo shows a COVID drive-in concert, sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce. (Drone photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)
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It’s been a big month for Jane Pimentel.
On Monday, the Board of Selectwomen unanimously granted her — as owner/operator of Longshore Sailing School — a 1-year extension to her contract.
An RFP for a longer contract will be posted this summer.
A few days earlier, at US Sailing’s National Sailing Programs Symposium in Savannah, Georgia, Pimentel received the Sail Training Service and Support Award in honor of Virginia Long.
The award — commonly called “The Ginny” — goes to an individual who “unselfishly assists and enables a sailing program or sailing instruction in a supportive role.” Recipients’ “outstanding efforts improve sailing education programs and instruction in the United States.”
US Sailing said Pimentel “has seemingly made it her dual mission to create new sailors while simultaneously improving the level of instructor training in her region…. Longshore Sailing School puts over 1,000 junior sailors and 250 adults on the water annually, with many coming by way of scholarship. Many adults also go on to become instructors at the school.
“Much of her success is due to the culture she’s created. As all good leaders do, Pimentel has established a staff culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and empowerment, understanding that accountability and compassion go hand in hand.” (Click here for more information. Hat tip: David Loffredo)
Valentine’s Day came early for members of Club 203 — Westport’s great group for adults with disabilities.
They partied at the Westport Country Playhouse’s Lucille Lortel barn, where they enjoyed heart-shaped pizzas from Planet Pizza, music by DJ Joey, a “sweet” art project organized by MoCA, and mountains of pink and red desserts by Avery Horne.
Volunteers — including some from the Westport Rotary Club — joined the fun.
Dylan Curran and friends, at Club 203’s Valentine’s party.
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Speaking of Valentine’s Day: With so much contention in our town and country, the Democratic Women of Westport want to show a little non-partisan love.
This Saturday (February 10, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), they’ll be outside Anthropologie, offering hot chocolate and cookies to all.
They’ll also have Post-Its, for people to share what they love about Westport. The DWW will hang them up, for all to see.
It’s their “valentine to our town.”
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In a town filled with fundraisers, it’s tough to stand out.
The Westport Woman’s Club has found a unique — and very fun — way: a “Death by Bathtub Gin” murder mystery dinner.
On Saturday, March 23 (6 p.m.), their Imperial Avenue clubhouse will be transformed into a Jazz Age speakeasy.
A professional troupe of Broadway actors will guide 100 guests through a hunt for the “murderer.” It may well be one of them.
The night includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a 3-course Italian dinner, as the “murder mystery” unfolds.
Flapper dresses and tuxedos are welcome. A photo booth will have “jazzy” accessories for all. There’s a silent auction too.
Tickets are $150. Proceeds help fun scholarships, grants and food gift cards — continuing the Woman’s Club’s 100-plus years of service to the community.
Call 203-227-4240, or email wwc@westportwomansclub.org for tickets.
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Calling all 6th through 8th grade boys who dream of playing on the Staples High School varsity team!
On Sunday, February 18 (8 to 10 a.m.), the Wreckers will host a clinic at the PAL Longshore ice rink.
Head coach Matt Bohn, his staff and current players will lead skill drills and small area games. Attendees can then watch Bohn lead a varsity practice.
For the final half hour, any current or prospective player (of any age) can sign up to “Skate with a Wrecker” during an open session. Beginners are welcome.
The program is sponsored by Westport PAL and is free, but pre-registration is required. To reserve a spot, email wreckerhockey@gmail.com
Attention all veterans coping with PTSD and anxiety: Westport-based The Harmonetiks Project‘s mind/body workshops can help.
Classes begin February 27, and will be held Tuesdays at Harmonetiks (420 Post Road West, at 9 a.m., noon and 6:30 p.m. Classes are limited to 12 in-person; there is an online option too.
Westport acupuncturist and energy medicine specialist/coctor of Oriental medicine Jeffrey Zimmerman provides the treatments and self-help workshops for veterans, teaching them concrete tools to support their well-being.
Harmonetiks exercises dial down the body’s “fight/flight or freeze” response, and transition to a state of ease and harmony.
And finally … country music star Toby Keith died Monday. He was 62, and in 2022 was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Click here for a full obituary.
(“06880” has covered the blue house story — and many others — for years. If you enjoy our work, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
On Thursday I posted a video that included a driver heading south on North Avenue, blasting right through the stop sign at Cross Highway.
That evening — just a few hours later — someone did it again.
This time, there was someone else at the intersection.
Amy Lowey Horowitz writes:
“Around 6 p.m., I was driving east on Cross Highway. A driver coming south on North Avenue ran the stop sign at high speed, and hit the front of my car. My vehicle turned 90 degrees, ending up also facing south on North Avenue.
“The other driver pulled off, and left.
“I called the police. In what seemed like an instant firefighters, police and ambulance were there, showing me so much kindness and concern.
“I was seriously shaken up, shocked, confused and not even able to answer all their questions. The accident happened so fast.
“I hope to use ‘06880’ to thank all the people who showed up and helped me navigate those first few moments. I was too shocked to learn names. I want to thank all the first responders who showed up, and did more than just their jobs last night.
“I’m fine this morning, grateful for that, as well as the care and treatment that I received.
” also hope that someone witnessed the accident is willing to share what they saw. There were plenty of people driving past right after impact. It is likely that someone may have seen the other car go through the intersection right before he hit me.”
Any witnesses should call the Westport Police: 203-341-6000.
It was a big Earth Day celebration yesterday downtown. The Westport Downtown Association partnered with Staples’ Service League of Boys (SLOBs) to hit the streets for a cleanup.
They started at Parker Harding Plaza, then headed down Main Street to Church Lane and Elm Street, with a side visit to the Baldwin parking lot.
It’s all bagged up. Downtown looks fresh, nice, and ready for spring.
SLOBs and friends clean up downtown. (Photo/Lee Shufro)
AND … this was the scene at the very trash-filled Elaine Road site. A large crew picked up plenty of garbage, from the boat launch underneath I-95 all the way to Compo Road South.
RTM member Andrew Colabella helped organize the effort, which included 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, town employees and SLOBs.
Looks like they even found an old highway sign among the mess.
The Democratic Women of Westport also celebrated Earth Day yesterday, at athletic fields around town.
Informational tables at “Sustainability on the Sidelines” offered info on small steps families can take to reduce their sports footprint (For xample: carpooling, no idling, and participating in a uniform exchange).
They also gave away Gatorade powders to encourage reusable bottles instead of single use plastic.
Owen Hill had a table too, at the Democratic Women of Westport’s “Sustainability on the Sidelines” Earth Day event.
On Friday Jamie Walsh — chair of the Westport Shellfish Commission and his wife Grayson Braun joined former chair Heather Williams and her husband Colin Walklet.
For several hours, they did their biannual cleanup around Hendrick’s Point — the beautiful spot next to the Longshore golf driving range.
Jamie says: “Among the wide array of beer, soda bottles and cans; remnants of food packaging; bits of styrofoam and over 200 golf balls that cleared the netting that was recently repaired, the most concerning litter was the many bundles of fishing line randomly discarded in the brush.
“I’ve been part of the cleanup for a number of years, but this was the worst. We hauled out 6 large trash bags full of garbage, and enough fishing line to fill half a bag. Most of it had to be cut out of the brush.
“Improper disposal of fishing line creates a huge problem. Birds and small animals get hung up in it. Fishing line disposed on the shoreline can float off and take up to 600 years to decompose, but it generally degrades into micro-plastics that are toxic and dangerous to all marine life. Ultimately, this winds up in the food chain.
“It is our collective responsibility to be stewards of the land and waters, and dispose of all garbage and plastic items such as fishing line responsibly. I urge people to help by picking up stray fishing line they see at the water’s edge. Help us to keep our precious shorelines as pristine as possible.
“We have that responsibility to our natural resources — not just on Earth Day, but every day.”
Clearing fishing lines from the Hendrick’s Point brush.
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In non-Earth Day news, Challenger baseball — the Westport Little League program for youngsters with disabilities — celebrated its 10th anniversary yesterday.
24 players and 16 buddies — plus a cake — marked the memorable occasion.
Challenger players and buddies get ready to play ball.
MoCA Westport was packed Friday night for a performance by jazz saxophonist Eddie Barbash. He’s a founding member of the house band for “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.” The concert was part of the “Rainbow in the Dark” exhibition.
Next up on the Music at MoCA schedule: This Friday (April 28, 7 p.m.): The Cuatro Puntos Ensemble, pianist Irena Portenko, violinist Kristen Young and musicians from Norwalk Youth Symphony present chamber music for strings by contemporary composers living in Ukraine, including newly commissioned pieces from Odessa and Kyiv. Click here for more details.
“I’m concerned about an older man who rides his bike at twilight or early dark near the Saugatuck/Norwalk line.
“He rides erratically, crossing the road from one side to the other, stopping occasionally. He wears a drab raincoat and is nearly invisible in the low light. His bicycle has no reflective devices.
“Late commuters speed home along Saugatuck Avenue, and I fear for this fellow’s life.
“I hesitate to notify the police since the bicycle may be his only transportation. I want to warn readers to be careful in this area.”
Wendy Crowther recently had a close encounter with nature. The result is today’s captivating “Westport … Naturally” photo.
She writes: “A pair of barred owls hung out in the evergreen trees around my yard today. They have a classic-sounding hoot often described as if they’re asking, ‘Who cooks for you, who cooks for you all?’
“As dusk neared, this one flew onto the peak of my garage, waiting patiently for something delicious to scurry by below. It was the perfect pose for a photo. He/she eventually flew off without dinner.”
The “Saugatuck swan” — the one Westporters have watched in wonder, as she hatched her eggs by the Saugatuck River, a few feet from Parker Harding Plaza — has given birth.
Claudia Sherwood Servidio reports on the delivery, adding: “the male was very attentive, looking for reeds to reinforce the nest from water with the high tide.”
Remember last year’s traffic and safety sessions, each for a different RTM district?
An update is set for April 27 (7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium). First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, along with officials from the Public Works, Planning & Zoning and Public Safety Departments, will discuss progress on the Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Summary Report.
There will be time for discussion and input from residents about traffic and safety concerns in their neighborhoods.
An additional meeting will be held this fall.
Typical traffic on North Avenue, at Bedford Middle School. (Photo/Adam Vengrow)
To celebrate Earth Day this Saturday (April 22), the Democratic Women of Westport will show how to make recreational sports more environmentally friendly. The event is called “Sustainability on the Sidelines.”
The DWW will man — er, woman — tables at Wakeman Field, and baseball and softball diamonds. The goal is to provide info on small steps families can take to reduce their sports cleat footprint.
Included: some of Sustainable Westport’s efforts, and a handout with tips (examples: carpooling, no idling, and participating in a uniform exchange).
They’ll also give away Gatorade powders to encourage reusable bottles instead of single use plastic
Adult and youth volunteers are needed for Saturday, and to make posters to decorate the tables. To help, or for more information, email jessica@theparentcollective.com.
One of the children’s posters, for Saturday’s Democratic Women of Westport Earth Day event.
Equally important: It’s the 10th anniversary for the “Westport Winners.” They’re the local team in the Little League Challenger division, for special needs youngsters.
Opening day is this Saturday (April 22, 11:30 a.m., Meyer Field at Town Farms). Everyone is invited.
A decade ago Beth Cody and her son Jack had a dream. With help from Stacie Curran, Westport Little League officials and many others, they made it happen.
Westport Country Playhouse opened its 93rd season Saturday night with the Tony Award-winning musical, “Ain’t Misbehavin’.”
Opening night guests included Richard Maltby, Jr., who co-conceived the show, and André De Shields, an original Broadway cast member.
The musical — about Fats Waller and musicians of the Black Renaissance — runs through April 29. Click here for more information.
From left: Jeffrey Page, director and choreographer of “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” and Andrew De Shields. who starred in the show on Broadway 45 years ago. (Photo/Jerri Graham Photography)
If you’ve ever wondered what happens at the end of life, or how to care for a loved one or yourself — and who among us has not? — put May 11 (7 p.m., Westport Library) on your calendar.
Panelists will explore what dying can look like, how to have important conversations, and palliative care and hospice. The discussion will be led by Julia Portale, executive director of Fairfield County House, Fairfield County’s non-profit hospice.
A year ago, Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall had an idea: turn VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 into a music venue.
On April 27, “Jazz at the Post” celebrates its first anniversary with a gala event.
Over 20 of favorite performers — including Brian Marsella, David Morgan, Sarah Cion, Mike Mossman, Tim Horner, Phil Bowler, Rob Henke, Joe Corsello, Dave Childs, Kenny Wessel, Rale Micic, David DeJesus — join in a benefit concert for the weekly event’s sponsor, the Jazz Society of Fairfield County.
The VFW acoustics are terrific. The vibe is cool. The restore Village Gate piano has never sounded better.
Tickets ($100 per person; higher levels for supporters and benefactors) include non-stop music and dinner from Chef Derek. Cocktails, beer and wine are available too.
On the horizon next month: clinics for Westport students, conducted by headlining Jazz at the Post artists. On May 11 and 25, students will perform as opening acts.
Also ahead: Jazz FC’s broadened relationship with after-school programs in Norwalk and Bridgeport, partnerships with senior centers and facilities serving underserved populations, and more.
Last night’s A Better Chance of Westport “Dream Event” was everything a fundraising gala should be.
The venue was exciting (Pinstripes at the SoNo Collection). There was plenty of food, but no sit-down dinner, so there everyone mingled. Silent auction items were fresh, and fun.
Best of all: The speeches were few, but deeply meaningful. Several alumni of the program — which brings students of color from underserved schools to Westport, where they attend Staples High School and give back to the community as much as they get — returned for the 20th annual event.
ABC grads live all across the country now. They’re establishing (or in the middle of!) their own careers, starting their own families.
But nearly a dozen of them spent yesterday at Glendarcy House, speaking with and mentoring the current scholars (who also were guests at the gala).
Three — Savion Agard (Staples Class of 2007, Cornell University ’11), Luis Cruz (SHS ’15, Boston College ’19) and Adrian Belvitt (SHS ’16, Colgate University ’20) — spoke passionately about the generosity of Westporters, and the impact the program made on them.
Yet it was clear from the night that A Better Chance makes at least a strong impact on our community.
Yesterday’s United Methodist Church Easter Egg hunt was so much fun, they’re doing it again — today (Sunday, 2 p.m., 49 Weston Road).
Everyone is invited to “Rabbit Hill.” (Yes, that’s the legit name. The previous owner of the property was Robert Lawson — author/illustrator of the beloved children’s series.)
Yesterday’s United Methodist Church Easter Egg hunt.
The New York Yankees are winners, on and off the field.
They’ve arranged for a portion of ticket sales from their June games against the Texas Rangers to benefit Pink Aid.
For more than a decade, the organization has provided support, resources and emergency financial assistance to underserved breast cancer patients and their families. Pink Aid has helped more than 20,000 patients throughout Connecticut and 38 other states.
The games are June 23 (7:05 p.m.), 24 (4:05 p.m.) and 25 (1:35 p.m.). Tickets include 1 hot dog, a drink and baseball cap. Click here to reserve a seat.
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Steve Lillywhite — whose record producing credits include the Rolling Stones, U2, the Dave Matthew Band, Phish, Peter Gabriel, Talking Heads, the Psychedelic Furs, XTC, Morrissey, the Pogues, Guster, the Killers and more — regaled a large VersoFest crowd yesterday with tales from his long career.
The conversation — with Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club founder Chris Frantz — was one of the highlights of Day 3 of the music-and-media Westport Library event.
Among Lillywhite’s remarks: Our Weston neighbor Keith Richards is one of the “most bohemian people” he know. The Rolling Stone guitarist may wake up at 8 a.m. or 8 p.m. “It doesn’t matter. He’s good with that.”
Steve Lillywhite, Chris Frantz, and some of the record producer’s work, at the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum. (Photo and hat tip/Dinkin Fotografix)
In the evening Frantz interviewed Richard Butler, lead singer of the Psychedelic Furs (and now an accomplished artist).
That session also served as this year’s Malloy Lecture on the Arts.
Richard Butler and Chris Frantz (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
Also at VersoFest yesterday: A workshop on the Grateful Dead’s 1974 wall of sound, with a 1/20th-to-scale working version. The model was led by its creator, former Weston resident Anthony Coscia.
Attendees made their own speakers, after learning about the evolution of sound and the need for better amplification for larger and larger venues in the 1960s.
The Wall of Sound, and workshop participants. (Photo and hat tip/Matthew Mandell)
VersoFest concludes today (Sunday), with a record fair and panel, workshops on audio and hip hop, an Alice Cooper documentary and artifacts exhibit, the Wall of Sound scale model, and more. Click here for a full schedule.
Easter and Passover are almost here, so let’s think about … Mother’s Day!
It’s May 14. And Wakeman Town Farm offers handmade bouquets (not, they emphasize, “supermarket flowers.”
Each spring bouquet comes in a Mason jar tied with gray leather criss-cross cord, designed by Sarah Shaw Floral Design exclusively for WTF.
Orders will be taken through May 3. Pickup is Saturday, May 6, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Farm
A portion of the proceeds supports Wakeman Town Farm programs. Click here to order.
Say it with flowers.
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The Democratic Women of Westport’s Souper Luncheon is a decades-long tradition.
On Friday, they celebrated with a twist. Pippa Adler and Dawn Sullivan — who coordinate Sustainable Westport’s Zero Food Waste Challenge — helped them create a planet-friendly event.
The pair told the DWW to avoid plastic water bottles and plastic wrap (use pitchers, real glasses and aluminum foil). No disposable plates — just old-fashioned glass or ceramic ones.
Paper napkins were okay if they were compostable — and the compost bag should be nearby, for any (minimal) food waste.
DWW ordered branded refillable mugs made partly out of wheat straw (a wheat byproduct that typically gets treated as waste). Guests were encouraged to use them as part of Sustainable Westport’s “Refill Not Landfill” program at local coffee shops.
There were even reusable magnetic name tags.
This year’s guest was Secretary of the State (and Norwalk resident) Stephanie Thomas. She discussed her first few months in office, encouraged advocacy for important issues — plugged green businesses.
Democratic Women of Westport members Sherry Gordon, Candice Savin and Lee Goldstein, with magnetic name tags.
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Longtime Westporter Rita Leyden died last month, at 85.
private family ceremony on Compo Beach to honor Tom and Rita Leyden, their four granddaughters walked across Soundview Drive toward Fairfield Avenue in a familiar style.
On Thursday, family members gathered at Compo Beach to honor her and her late husband Tom.
Afterwards, their 4 granddaughters walked across Soundview Drive, toward the Leydens’ Fairfield Avenue home of nearly 55 years, in familiar fashion.
André DeShields — a Tony Award winner for “Hadestown”– highlights a Westport Country Playhouse Sunday Symposium, following the April 16 matinee of “Ain’t Misbehavin’.” He’ll discuss the significance and history of the Tony Award-winning show.
DeShields was an original Broadway cast member of “Ain’t Misbehavin’.” He also performed on its 1982 television broadcast and won a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Individual Achievement.
The Symposium is free, and open to the public (click here to register). It will begin around 5 p.m. Performance tickets are not needed to attend.
For years, TAP Strength has been many things to (and for) many people.
The downtown center offers personal training, soft tissue therapy, injury prevention, injury recovery, circuit training, performance coaching, mobility and stretching. They also just hosted CPR classes for Westport EMS.
Now they’ve added yoga and sound bath classes.
The schedule includes a Wednesday night yoga class beginning April 12 (6 to 7 p.m.), and regular sound bath meditations..
To sign up for classes, performance coaching and therapy, or for more information, click here.
Questions? Email Nancy@tapstrength.com, or call 203-292-9353.
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Sorelle Gallery’s new exhibit, On View, opens Friday (April 7).
Three artists are featured: Linda Bigness, Tony Iadicicco and Nealy Hauschildt.
Their works ranges from Bigness’ floral encaustic paintings using beeswax, damar resin, and pigment, to Iadicicco’s work with thin layers of oil paint, and Hauschildt’s watercolor paper.
The show runs through April 29. Click here for more information.
Sorelle Gallery show.
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Jazz comes to MoCA Westport on April 21 (7 p.m.).
Sax player Eddie Barbash brings his unique sound — and string quartet — for the evening.
Tickets are $40; $25 for students and seniors. MoCA members receive a 15% discount. Click here to reserve.
Eddie Barbash
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Now that dogs are banned from the beach, dinosaurs may take over.
This one was spotted yesterday, at Compo. It’s the first one we’ve featured on “Westport … Naturally.”
Hey … once upon a time, they roamed the earth.
(Photo/Patricia McMahon)
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And finally … Keith Reid — the lyricist of “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” and many other deep and dramatic songs by Procol Harum — last week in London. He was 76, and had battled cancer.
Veterans Day was special for Christine Quinn Antal.
The 1994 Staples High School graduate and former Army lawyer, and her husband Mark, a former decorated Green Beret, formed an organization — Task Force Antal — that has helped Afghanistan allies escape the Taliban, and provided humanitarian aid to soldiers in Ukraine.
Dozens of veterans help, knowing the couple cuts through red tape and delivers what they promise quickly and efficiently.
For Veterans Day, the “Today” show produced a live segment with the couple, their daughters, and a veterans organization that honored them. Click here for that inspiring story.
Christine and Mark also participated in Bedford Middlel School’s 8th grade Veterans Day event. They spoke powerfully about their work, and inspired the youngsters in Christine’s hometown. (Hat tipis: Kerry Long, Kate Tarrant)
Christine Quinn and Mark Antal, in a screenshot from yesterday’s “Today” show.
Here’s a chance to do so with Board of Education members.
A community forum is set for November 15 (noon to 1:30 p.m., Westport Library).
Former RTM moderator Velma Heller will facilitate a conversation, on any topics related to our local schools. It should be a very interesting dialogue.
Just in time for the holidays, the Westport Farmers’ Market moves indoors.
Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center once again hosts the winter market. It opens November 17 and runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday (except Thanksgiving) through March 9.
Vendors will fill 3 heated greenhouses with high-quality locally grown or raised fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, milk, baked and prepared foods, and handmade items,
The Farmers’ Market kicks off the season with a celebration. Bubble & Brew and Parlor Pizza will set up their trucks outside the greenhouses. Luke Molina will play music and Mae Farrell will entertain the kids with a nature-inspired theme.
As Batman fans around the world mourn the death of Kevin Conroy — the character’s distinctive voice on television, in movies and video games — Staples High School graduates remember him as a classmate and friend.
The 1973 alum starred in several Staples Players productions, including “Romeo and Juliet” and “The Crucible.”
He was Sky Masterson too in “Guys and Dolls.” Opening night was 50 years ago yesterday — the same date as last night’s premiere of the same show.
Eric Bosch sent along these photos of Kevin Conroy, from the Staples yearbook:
That’s the provocative subtitle of a Zoom discussion set for Monday (November 14, 7:30 p.m.).
Sponsored by the Democratic Women of Westport, with the title “Who is My Neighbor?,” the event features Nancy Gagnier. She’s part of the South Orange/Maplewood Community Coalition on Race, a non-profit with the goal of building a suburban community free of racial segregation in housing and community involvement.
For more information, and to access the link, email dww06880@gmail.com.
Three years ago, “06880” honored Charlotte — the longtime Balducci’s cashier known as “Charle” — as an Unsung Hero.
The “Comments” page quickly filled with more praise for her.
Now, Susan Weingarten reports, she was recently in a very bad automobile accident. Her car was totaled.
The good news: After recuperating at her Orange home, she is back at the store. Susan encourages all Charle’s friends to stay by and say “welcome back!”
The Weston Police Commission’s choice of Citizen of the Year is a no-brainer.
For more than 30 years, Mark Blake served the Weston Volunteer Fire Department and Weston Volunteer Emergency Medical Services. He was also a Westport EMS supervisor. Mark died in September, after a long battle with COVID.
A ceremony is set for Monday (November 14, 6 p.m., Weston Town Hall).
Among Mark’s many contributions to public safety: Weston’s Child Passenger Safety program. It offered training on the proper use of child car seats, and seats to those who needed them.
The public — including all of Mark’s friends and admirers — are invited to the event.
Mark Blake
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Ukraine has moved off the front pages.
But the war is very real to tens of millions of people who live there. And to friends and relatives, like Tatyana Hisxon of Westport.
She’s helping organize a fundraiser (December 2, 3 p.m. Carriage Barn Arts Centr, New Canaan).
The non-political event — called “Ukraine Fast Forward” — will showcase the country’s culture, arts and sciences.
All proceeds benefit Big Dreams Children’s Foundation. Long active with orphans and youngsters with disabilities, it now is helping kids and women affected by the fighting.
Raffle prizes include a private tour of the United Nations, and works by exhibiting artists.
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
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