Tag Archives: Dog Festival

Roundup: Jackie Robinson, Steve Zimmerman, Dogs …

Posted on May 15, 2025 | 10 comments

Jackie Robinson is a towering historical figure. Thanks to Major League Baseball’s ongoing efforts, every young fan today knows the story of the first man to break the sport’s Black barrier.

But older Americans have more first-hand knowledge of the Brooklyn Dodgers star. They were youngsters or adolescents when he played, or had recently retired.

Robinson was the subject of the Westport Library Common Ground Initiative‘s first-ever Jackie Robinson Essay Contest.

Modeled on TEAM Westport’s Teen Diversity Essay Contest, it invited area residents age 60 or older to reflect on this prompt: “Jackie Robinson stands as an icon of equality and civil rights. What does that say about the power of his legacy, of the place of sports in our culture, and about our modern-day society?”

The Library, Senior Center and Meryl Moss Media group chose 6 winners.

Tony Sanches won first place — and a Jackie Robinson Baseball Hall of Fame 1962 induction limited edition bat — for his essay, “Life Lessons.” A New York Mets fan who is very familiar with the large Robinson statue outside Citi Field, he wrote about how the player inspired him — a “brown-skinned kid … in an all-white Long Island suburb.” Sanches’ essay is here.

Second place went to Steve Karp. His essay “42 and Me” described the writer’s youth in Stamford — where Robinson lived — and the player’s personal impact on him.

Other essay winners included Jim Alkon for “His Courage Taught Baseball to be Color Blind,“; William Field (“The Meritocracy of the Locker Room: Jackie Robinson’s Halo Looms Large“); Martin Erdheim (“Jackie Was America’s Dream“), and Holly Goss Betts (“Jackie Robinson Moved Boulders“).

Tony Sanches, with his winning Jackie Robinson bat.

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It’s not easy, overseeing all the music and art education in the Westport Public Schools.

But Stephen Zimmerman does it — and does it well.

So well, in fact, that last week our townwide coordinator of music and visual arts was named Administrator of the Year, by the Connecticut Music Educators Association.

He was cited for his “visionary leadership, tireless advocacy for teachers, and unwavering commitment to ensuring high quality music programs for all students… (He) is deeply invested in teacher growth, regularly presenting at state and national conferences and working closely with Connecticut districts, teachers, and music administrators to strengthen instruction, curriculum, and assessment practices.”

Steve Zimmerman

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The 9th annual Westport Dog Festival is this Sunday (May 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Winslow Park).

This week, TAILS volunteers have been working like — you know — filling 1,000 doggie bags, given to attendees.

Sponsors provide an item to promote themselves. They include things like dog food, a doggie poop bag holder (with bags), dog bandannas, bubbles, refrigerator magnets and discount coupons.

This is one doggie bag you’re not embarrassed to ask for.

Those doggone bags!

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If you didn’t help with the Compo Beach playground rebuildl — or even if you did — there’s one more chance to help.

Volunteers are needed all day this Saturday (May 17) to do one final heaving, helping sweep of the grounds.

Head on down to sift through the sand. And if you’ve got a metal detector: Bring it along!

Almost done! (Photo/Larry Silver)

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Westport Sunrise Rotary is collaborating with Open Doors Homeless Shelter in Norwalk for Epic Day of Service.

They’re looking for volunteers to help paint bed frames, and the front entrance of the facility.

Two shifts are avaiable this Saturday (May 17; 9 to 11 a.m., and 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.). Please PM me if you are available and willing to give back. If interested, email asarelli@yahoo.com.

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To celebrate its decade, The Cottage has unveiled a Ten Year Tasting Menu.

The multi-course offering was designed by chef/owner Brian Lewis, 2025 James Beard Award nominee for Best Chef: Northeast. The limited-time menu pays homage to “the restaurant’s roots in seasonality, storytelling, and enduring partnerships with New England’s finest farmers, fishermen, and foragers.

“This menu is a tribute to the ingredients, people, and moments that have shaped our story over the past 10 years,” says Lewis.

“We pushed ourselves to dig deeper — reconnecting with our local purveyors, reimagining time-honored techniques, and creating dishes that carry real meaning. Each course reflects a memory, a partnership, or a turning point.”

The tasting menu is available for dinner Tuesday through Saturday; $175 per guest, with an optional $75 wine pairing. Call 203.557.3701, or email chefbrianlewis@fullhousehg.com. Full menus and more information can be found here.

Tasting menu samples, at The Cottage.

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The Westport Weston Family YMCA’s Extra Special Spring Bash is truly special.

The lively, inclusive event for teens and young adults with disabilities (May 23, 6:30 to 8 p.m.) is open to youth ages 12 to 18 with physical or neuro-diverse needs, and their families.

The Y will transform its fitness studio into a spring-themed festival, with music, dancing, games, food, a photo booth, gift bags, and plenty of joy. A live DJ will keep the energy high, in a safe, welcoming space made just for arrwnswwa.

Parents and guardians can hang out in a lounge nearby. Registration and details are available here. 

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Joe Vallone was stymied recently in his efforts to build 32 units of 100% affordable housing on Maple Avenue South, behind the Exxon station.

But the Westport architect just completed another fully affordable project, The Camelot — in West Hartford.

The range of income levels is between $30,000 and $80,000 a year. Vallone first pitched the idea in early 2022. Full details are available here.

Joe Vallone, at The Camelot. (Photo/Ronni Newton for We-Ha.com)

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.Ken Runkel’s digital artwork is a highlight of nearly every “06880” Saturday online art gallery.

But today’s post has nothing to do with art.

Ten years ago Ken’s daughter Lindsey — a 2009 Staples High School graduate — fractured her spine in a mountain biking accident. She was paralyzed from the chest down.

But she earned 2 degrees, including a BSN in nursing from the University of Connecticut. In fact, Lindsey broke new ground, as the first paraplegic nursing student at UConn.

Soon after graduation she was hired by Yale New Haven Hospital, as the only paraplegic registered nurse in the liver and kidney transplant unit. In 2021 she became a critical care nurse, in the ICU at Yale New Haven Hospital.

She has fought tirelessly to live fully, and refuses to let paralysis define or limit her. Yet she has faced harsh challenges, both medical and financial.

Lindsey was recently diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. She has encountered ongoing obstacles to find effective pharmaceutical and treatment solutions.

Her daily medical needs already carry significant costs, and the treatment for ulcerative colitis has further increased her financial burden.

A campaign was established for Lindsey at HelpHopeLive, a non-profit that supports people with medical expenses due to catastrophic injuries and illnesses. All donations are tax-deductible and can only be used for medical expenses.

Lindsay Runkel

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On June 27 (6:30 p.m.,), Mystic Bowie’s Talking Dreads make their first-ever Westport appearance.

They’ll fill the Westport Library with their fun Caribbean swagger, and bouncy reggae rhythms, for a special dance party.

It’s billed as “the world’s largest reggae dance party.” And there’s Red Stripe beer!

Tickets are $37.50. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Mystic Bowie

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A 37-year-old Darien women was charged with larceny, following an investigation into a March incident at Mitchells. The woman allegedly removed security bags from clothes worth more than $9,000 in a dressing room. She was released after posting a $50,000 bond.

Westport Police also issues these citations, between May 7 and 14:

  • Driving while texting: 7 citations
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 4
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 4
  • Speeding: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Evading responsibility: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating an improperly loaded motor vehicle: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1

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For today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured image, we present: the moon.

Specifically, a full one over Long Island Sound:

(Photo/Jonathan Prager)

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And finally … in honor of Joe Vallone’s latest affordable housing project (story above):

(Another day, another Roundup filled with news about events, restaurants, and everything else that makes this town pop. If you enjoy this daily potpourri, please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Education, Library, Police, Restaurants, YMCA

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Roundup: My Mistakes, Canal Park’s Egrets, Compo’s Hook’d …

Posted on May 9, 2025 | 2 comments

Yesterday’s Roundup included 2 dumb errors.

The 9th annual Dog Festival is Sunday, May 18 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Winslow Park). I said it was this Sunday; it’s actually a week later. Learn more here.

I also forgot to include the link to Staples High School student Jonathan Dobin-Smith’s powerful (and successful) plea at the Representative Town Meeting, to restore $25,000 to the Earthplace budget. Here is the speech; if it doesn’t start there, it’s at the 1:18:25 mark.

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Save the date. The always popular Staples Pops Concert is June 6 (7 p.m., Levitt Pavilion).

Free tickets are snapped up quickly. Watch this space for info (coming soon!) on how to snag yours.

Meanwhile, the Staples Music Parents Association invites local businesses to buy ads in the program book.

Contributions cover Pops Concert expenses, and help provide resources all year lon for over 400 students in the music program. For details, email  staples.music.parents.assn+ads@gmail.com.

There’s always a full house for the Staples Pops Concert. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

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More SHS news: Kids in pre-K through grade 5 are too young to benefit from Staples Tuition Grants.

But they’re old enough to help raise funds, for the organization that since 1943 has helped tens of thousands of SHS graduates attend college.

The 2nd annual Kids Fun Run is Sunday, May 18 (8 to 9:30 a.m., Staples’ Loeffler Field). Registration is $25; visit @STGFUNRUN on Instagram.

The morning includes games, face painting, snacks, and a kids’ run. It’s organized by juniors Will Briggs and Alexis Krenzer.

Last year alone, STG awarded $381,500 to 105 students. To learn more, visit www.staplestuitiongrants.org.

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The weather has been off and on.

But Hook’d is on.

The Compo concessionaire has opened for another season. Let’s hope for many good beach days ahead.

(Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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“Egrets” have come to Canal Green.

That’s the name of Westport’s newest outdoor artwork.

On Wednesday, the 7 1/2-foot stainless steel sculpture by Redding artist Babette Bloch joined 3 other sculptures recently placed in town parks by the Westport Art Advisory Committee, in collaboration with the Parks & Recreation Department.

Bloch is nationally known as a pioneer in laser-cut stainless steel sculpture

A celebration — including a short talk by the artist, a tribute by Westport poet laureate Donna Disch and refreshments — is set for May 31 (4 p.m.). Canal Park is at the interseection of Kings Highway North and Canal Street, just east of the Willows Medical Center.

“Egrets” at Canal Green.

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Longtime Westporter and musician Roger Kaufman’s forays into musical history have entertained and educated audiences for years.

He’s back on May 29 (7:30 p.m., The Warehouse at Fairfield Theatre Company).

“Speaking of Music Presents Road Trip to the 5Ms” includes both a presentation and live music.

Author/bassist/Fairfield University Professor Brian Q. Torff opens, with a talk on “Race and Music of the Deep South.

Then comes a 90-minute show by the Old School Revue All-Stars with the Saugatuck Horns, with kick-ass guest vocalists Audrey Martells, Tiffany T’Zelle, Billy Cliff and Billy Genuario.

They’ll perform a great collection of classic soul and R&B tunes, from the legendary recording studios of Muscle Shoals, Memphis, Miami, Macon and Motown.

The Old School Revue musicians have performed or recorded with the Blues Brothers, Steve Cropper, Bob Dylan, Joe Cocker, Aretha Franklin, Steely Dan, Robert Palmer and the Rolling Stones.

I saw their previous show, in August. I give “the 5 Ms” 5 stars. Learn more about the show here.

Old School Revue All-Stars. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

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A large, curious crowd turned out yesterday, for an “Alternative Device Fair” at the Westport Library.

The event — sponsored by OK to Delay, the group supporting parents who delay giving their children smartphones — featured vendors selling products with the basic functionality of cellphones, but with fewer distractions.

Among the companies represented: Bark, Gabb, Pinwheel, Troomi, Dumb Wireless and Light and Tin Can.

Alternative Device Fair at Westport Library.

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Also yesterday at the Library: Over 50 people helped Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich launch their campaign for the Board of Selectmen yesterday.

The crowd included Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, state Senator Ceci Maher, and former state senator Will Haskell.

Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich (center), with supporters. 

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One more event yesterday worth (very much) noting: On the company’s “Red Day” of service, agents with Keller Williams Realty’s Westport office filled 900 bags of healthy food, for Filling in the Blanks.

The Norwalk non-profit fights childhood hunger — which provides weekend meals to kids in need — has just opened a pantry at the University of Connecticut-Stamford.

Keller Williams agents, “filling in the blanks.”

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The Y’s Women have a special guest on Monday — and the public is invited.

Fiona Davis — author of 8 historical fiction novels set in iconic New York buildings, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Library and Dakota — will discuss fascinating stories behind those landmarks, with veteran broadcast journalist Alisyn Camerota.

The event is May 12 (11:30 a.m., Green’s Farms Church). Non-Y’s Women (and men) can register by email: jildam00@yahoo.com

Fiona Davis

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Speaking of authors: Like any writer (and performance artist), Anya Liftig has seen her share of rejection letters.

Like perhaps no other, she has turned them into a book.

The 1995 Staples graduate — and author of “Holler Rat,” a memoir of her unique youth, balancing her lives in privileged Westport and the hollows of Kentucky — just published “Rejection/Ambition: A 25 Year Performance.”

Both a performance document and text work, it is culled from a quarter century’s “copious collection” of rejection letters.

Anya says, “Read from the Ambition side, it is clear-eyed in its determination for artistic recognition. Read from the Rejection side, it is a text about failure, mistakes, and confusion.”

You can purchase “Rejection/Ambition”on her website.

Anya Liftig (Photo/Stephen Dennett)

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The Green’s Farms Association welcomes a special guest to their annual meeting next Wednesday (May 14, 7 p.m., Green’s Farms Congregational Church).

Outgoing police chief Foti Koskinas will speak. Important topics for the neighborhood group include a police/fire/EMS facility proposed for the Sherwood Island Connector, and traffic.

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Westport native and lifelong resident Loretta Pastore died peacefully on Monday. She was 65.

Like her mother and daughters, she was a Staples graduate. Her family says, “she was known for her kindness, generosity, grace, and unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand.”

Loretta is survived by her sister, Annmarie Pastore Santolini (Tim); daughters Isabella and Gabriella Mikaiel; best friend, ex-husband and father of her children George Mikaiel, and nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Monday (May 12, 10 a.m., Assumption Church). A celebration of life will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Pastime Club (59 Seaview Avenue, Norwalk).

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to plant a tree in Loretta’s memory at Compo Beach, one of her favorite places. Donate to that fund here.

Loretta Pastore

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Whitmal Cooper sent a photo, with the caption: “Brant geese on the way to the Arctic at Compo”:

(Photo by Norm)

Who knew that’s where they’re headed?

But I do know it makes a very cool “Westport … Naturally” image.

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And finally … happy 76th birthday to the one and only Billy Joel!

(And so it goes … one more week of “06880” in the books. Thanks for being part of our online community, every day. If you’d like to support our work, please click here. Thank you!) 

 

 

 

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Obituaries, Staples HS

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Dog Day Afternoon (And Morning)

Posted on May 22, 2023 | 3 comments

Yesterday’s 7th annual Dog Festival brought the usual thousands of canines — and owners, families and vendors — to Winslow Park.

Pooches prowled, preened, ran through an obstacle course, competed for prizes, enjoyed treats, and sniffed each other avidly.

Thanks to the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, dozens of volunteers, all the sponsors — and of course, every dog. It would not have been your day without you.

(All photos/Dan Woog)

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Posted in Environment

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Roundup: SLOBs, AWARE, ROMEOs …

Posted on May 21, 2023 | 17 comments

Yesterday’s weather drove all but the hardiest yard workers indoors.

In anticipation of today’s sunshine — and, more importantly, to get ready for the 7th annual Dog Festival (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), a crew of SLOBs (Staples Service League of Boys) headed to Winslow Park to help.

“This was Westport at its best,” praises Matthew Mandell, executive director of the Dog Fest sponsor, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

“This was the most challenging prep for the event ever.”

Winslow Park will look great today, as thousands of dogs and their owners enjoy everything from obstacles courses and competitions to a K-9 demonstration and vendors.

And they’ll have a bunch of SLOBs to thank.

SLOBs set up for the Dog Festival. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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Also working outside yesterday: a hardy bunch of Westport Sunrise Rotary volunteers.

As they had promised Westport’s Department of Human Services, they showed up — dressed for the occasion and with their usual boundless energy — to help clean up a local resident’s home. The event was part of the international organization’s annual Day of Service.

They removed high grass, tree limbs, weeds and more from the property of a resident who was unable to do so, or afford to pay for it.

A brief pause from hard work. (Photo courtesy of Rob Hauck and Bruce Fritz)

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The foul weather also forced AWARE’s annual soiree indoors.

Over 100 folks crammed into a private home — rather than the back yard — to celebrate the organization, and its partner.

AWARE stands for Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education. Each year, they work with a different organization, offering financial resources, hands-on and moral support, and friendship.

For the past year, they’ve joined with Her Time. The Bridgeport non-profit assists women affected by incarceration and domestic violence.

The food and drinks were delicious. The fundraising went well. And “AWARE-ness” about Her Time was raised high too.

AWARE members and Her Time representatives spent a “family” evening together. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Also indoors last night: Actress/singer/songwriter (and 2013 Staples High School graduate) Michelle Pauker returned to MoCA Westport. Her Joni Mitchell tribute was part of the “Music at MoCA” series.

Last summer, Michelle performed “Broadway Through The Ages” for a sold-out crowd in the Museum’s gallery.

Her composer/director, Jake Landau, was a Staples classmate. The Juilliard and Oxford graduate is a quickly rising composer and conductor.

Next in the Music at MoCA series: Vanisha Gould, a Jazz at Lincoln Center Emerging Artist (June 10, 7 p.m.). She and her quartet will perform originals and selections from the Great American Songbook. Click here for tickets and more information.

From left: Michelle Pauker, Rachel Hoy and Ravi Campbell, last night at MoCA Westport. (Photo/Lily Hultgren)

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After decades of getting ready for the 7:30 a.m. bell, retired teachers have the luxury of sleeping in.

But former Staples High School educators find a variety of ways to stay active and engaged. They lead full, interestinglives.

Every so often they get together (though a bit later than 7:30) to compare notes, and talk about their lives then and now.

They call themselves ROMEOs: Retired Old Men Eating Out.

How many of these legendary teachers did you recognize?

Here they are (clockwise from lower left): Toby Watson, Al Jolley, Stan Rhodes, Werner Liepolt, Pete Van Hagen, Bruce McFadden, Jim Honeycutt, Ed Bludnicki, John Pepe, Jeff Lea, Jim Wheeler.

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Remember James Comey?

Before he became FBI director (and was fired by President Trump), he was general counsel at Bridgewater Associates, the Westport-based world’s largest hedge fund. He lived here too, in Greens Farms.

Comey’s new gig is mystery writer. He next book — “Central Park West” — will be published May 30.

It takes place at a fiction version of “the world’s largest hedge fund.”

Hmmm … will any other bits of Westport make it into the book?

I’m not buying it to find out.

But if anyone else does, please let me know. (Hat tip: Allen Siegert)


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Drew Angus has spent the last 3 months in Nashville. He’s writing songs, and playing with very talent musicians.

On June 8, the 2007 Staples High School graduate takes the stage at Fairfield Theatre Company, to share stories and songs from his time there.

Drew will be joined by Westonite Jeremy Goldsmith on guitar, Wilton’s Spencer Inch on drums, Nick Trautmann (Darien) on Bass, and non-Nutmegger Adam Bonomo (keyboard). A few special guests may join them.

Click here for tickets. Click here for more on Drew Angus.

Drew Angus

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Yesterday’s “06880” noted that it was the 96th anniversary of the day Charles Lindbergh took off on the first-ever non-stop solo crossing of the Atlantic Ocean.

Naturally, there’s a (sort of) Westport connection. (Beyond the fact — which I forgot to note — that Lindbergh and his family lived for several years on Long Lots Road.)

Longtime resident and avid “06880” reader Matt Murray’s grandmother was a friend of the engine builder/designer Charlie Lawrence.

The day before the flight, he asked Matt’s grandmother, “Do you want to see this fellow take off from Roosevelt Field at 5 a.m. to fly solo across the Atlantic?”

She replied, “Charlie, you’re drunk,” and did not go.

But because she was fluent writing and speaking French, Charlie asked her to write Lindbergh’s letter of introduction for when he landed.

As a thank you, she later received a picture of Lindbergh and Lawrence — and their signatures — just before he flew away.

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There’s always something to see on Soundview Drive.

Tammy Barry took the popular stroll the other day, and spotted these irises. They won’t be there long. Fortunately, she snapped this shot for “Westport .. Naturally.”

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … on this day in 1970 Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young recorded “Ohio.”  Neil Young wrote the song about the murder of 4 people at Kent State University, 2 1/2 weeks earlier.

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Posted in Entertainment, Staples HS

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Roundup: Dog Fest, Equity Study, Fire Danger …

Posted on May 17, 2023 | 12 comments

This Sunday, Westport’s dog park really goes to the dogs.

The 7th annual Dog Festival takes over Winslow Park on May 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event — produced by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and TAILS — celebrates all things canine.

The day includes guide dog and training demonstrations, a police K-9 presentation, an obstacle course (the winner gets a year’s supply of dog food), adoptables, kids activities, food trucks, information on non-profits, and more.

Prizes will be given for best tail wagger, best dressed, best kisser, best trick, best lap dog over 50 pounds and dog that most looks like its owner. Dog owners can register for the competitions at the festival, or online.

Surrounding the main activities are over 60 pet-related vendors, picture taking, caricatures, face painting, balloon bending and giveaways.

Proceeds from the entrance fee of $10 per person, and $30 for a family of 4 will benefit nonprofit organizations. So far, over $36,000 has been donated by the Chamber to local groups.

Parking is available at business lots along Post Road East. Click here for more Dog Festival information.

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For months, the Board of Education has discussed an “Equity Study Action Plan.” The goal is to help all students feel a sense of belonging.

The debate continued Monday night, for 3 hours. But one of the most compelling comments came not from a board member, but from a teenager.

One who cannot even speak.

Wynston Browne — an autistic Staples High School sophomore — has made remarkable progress over the past 2 years, using a spelling device. His parents and teachers realize now that a very keen and incisive mind had been locked away for over a decade. Wynston’s goal is to be a neuroscientist.

On Monday, Wynston typed. His words appeared on screen: “I want to do things that all kids my age do. I want to eat lunch with friends in the Staples cafeteria, and laugh instead of being laughed at. I want to attend classes that are challenging.”

And, he concluded: “Everyone got it wrong, for so long. It’s time to make it right, starting now.”

Click here to see Wynston’s compelling 6-minute speech. He did not speak out loud — but his words said it all.

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Effective immediately, the Westport Fire Department has banned all outside burning until further notice. The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for the entire state, due to extremely dry conditions.

The ban includes all recreational campfires and fire pits. Brush fires spread rapidly, and can threaten homes and property. 

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Today’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast features an introduction to the Westport Center for Senior Activities’ new director, Wendy Petty.

She discusses her plans for the center with 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker. Click below to listen to the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston production:

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Westport Rotary club’s weekly lunches are always illuminating.

For 39 local non-profits, yesterday’s was also lucrative.

In a ceremony at Green’s Farms Church, the civic group distributed grants to each one. Funds came from the more than $200,000 raised by ticket sales and from sponsors of September’s LobsterFest.

Giving Committee chair Peter Helt handed charitable checks to representatives of, among others (in alphabetical order): A Better Chance of Westport, Builders Beyond Borders, Carver Foundation of Norwalk, Domestic Violence Crisis Center, Mercy Learning Center, Norwalk Housing Foundation, Positive Directions, Remarkable Theater, Staples Tuition Grants, Westport Book Sales Ventures, Westport Country Playhouse, and Westport Volunteer EMS.

75 percent of LobsterFest proceeds go to local organizations; 25 percent to international organizations.

Rotarian Rick Benson described a few of those projects, including water sanitation efforts in Kenya and providing medical equipment to a hospital in Uganda.

Rotary Club members and grant recipients, at Green’s Farms Church.

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Jeff Scher is a prolific filmmaker and animator.

The 1972 Staples High School graduate — now back in Westport, working in a Cross Highway studio a few steps from his house — has created everything from an HBO documentary about a Holocaust survivor, to holiday videos for Bob Dylan and Paul Simon, and a short film about summer and water.

He made the official video for Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’s “Teach Your Children.”

Now he’s made another one for Graham Nash’s new album. It’s environmentally themed — and there’s a “no mower” section that’s very Westport.

Click below to see:

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Wheels2UWestport’s Park Connect returns this summer. The service — funded by Connecticut’s Departments of Transportation, and Energy and Environmental Protection — provides free rides to and from anywhere in Westport and Sherwood Island State Park.

Similar free-ride programs are available at 6 other state parks.

Rides are available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends and holidays, beginning Memorial Day weekend and running through Labor Day.

Rides are available through the Wheels2U app Westporters use to and from the train station.

For more information about Wheels2U and Park Connect, click here. For more information about the Westport Transit District’s services for the elderly and people with disabilities, click here.

Sherwood Island — Westport’s “other” beach — is Connecticut’s first state park.

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The Westport Woman’s Club and Congregation for Humanistic Judaism team up for an important event this Sunday (May 21; light breakfast, 9:30 a.m.; program, 10 a.m., 44 Imperial Avenue; click here for the livestream link with passcode 581845).

Dr. Deborah Varat, professor of art history at Southern New Hampshire University, presents “Arthur Szyk’s ‘The New Order’: How the Cartoons of a Polish Jew Helped Prepare the US for War.”

The cartoonist’s work helped Americans visualize and personalize the Nazi evil, against which they ultimately had to fight. Today his illustrations and impact on moving American public opinion toward readiness for war are commemorated in museums around the world. For more information on Szyk, click here.

Arthur Szyk’s “Freedom From Fear.”

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Lime Rock Park celebrates the 37th anniversary of Paul Newman’s Trans-Am win with an exhibit of his racing estate on May 27, during the Trans Am Memorial Day Classic.

It includes helmets, racing suits and other memorabilia that former Westport resident Newman used during his storied career. Click here for tickets. (Hat tip: Frank Rosen)

Paul Newman at Lime Rock.

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The Saugatuck Rowing Club was not around — not even a dream — when the Staples High School Class of 1983 graduated.

But that’s where their 40th reunion will be, on July 29 (6 to 10 p.m.).

Click here for tickets. Click here for the ’83 Facebook page.

Graduation Day, 1983.

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This pond did not look particularly inviting — unless you’re a dog.

Mark Mathias captured today’s wet “Westport … Naturally” image at the Leonard Schine Preserve, off Weston Road.

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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And finally … happy 81st birthday to Taj Mahal.

The multi-talented musician (guitar, piano, banjo, harmonica and many other instruments) has incorporated Caribbean, African, Indian, Hawaiian and South Pacific sounds into his blues/rock/gospel/funk repertoire.

He has played all over the world — including, in 1971 and ’73, at Staples High School. He returned in 1974, to the Westport Country Playhouse.

(It’s a dog’s world, as the first story above explains. Don’t be a bitch. Help support “06880.” Please click here. Thank you!)

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Dog Day Afternoon

Posted on May 15, 2022 | 5 comments

The official name is Winslow Park.

But everyone in Westport — and plenty of folks far beyond — call it “the dog park.”

The 32 acres of rolling meadows, woods and paths are a pooch’s paradise all year long. Today, many brought their owners to the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Dog Festival.

From obstacle courses and K-9 demonstrations to vendors selling everything from natural treats to portraits, it was canine heaven.

“06880” photographers fetched us these scenes:

(Photo/Lyah Muktavaram)

(Photo/Lyah Muktavaram)

(Photo/Lyah Muktavaram)

(Photo/Lyah Muktavaram)

One drone view … (Drone photo/Mark Mathias)

… and another, higher and wider one. (Drone photo/Charlie Scott)

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Roundup: Ice Cream, Dog Fest, Plant Sale …

Posted on May 13, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: Ice Cream, Dog Fest, Plant Sale …

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!

The Porch @ Christie’s ice cream hut opens today, next to the popular Cross Highway deli/coffee shop. They’ll serve from 2 to 5:30 p.m. weekdays, noon to 5 p.m. weekends, all spring and summer long.

The Porch uses J Foster local small batch ice cream. Dairy-free sorbet is also available.

The Porch ice cream hut.

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We’ve all gotten doggy bags at restaurants. We’ve also moved way past the fib of saying we’re taking the rest of our meal home to out dogs.

On Wednesday, Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce volunteers filled 1,000 actual “doggy bags.”

They’re stuffed with free swag from sponsors of the annual Dog Festival. It’s set for Sunday (May 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Winslow Park.

Some of the treats will be for you. Many of them are actually, truly, honestly for Fido.

Stuffing doggy bags.

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Can’t get to today’s Westport Garden Club plant sale on Jesup Green? (There’s still time: It ends at 1:30 p.m.). Forgot or otherwise missed it? Or maybe you just can’t get enough plants.

You’re in luck. Greens Farms Garden Club follows with their own plant sale and garden boutique tomorrow (Saturday, May 14). It’s 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sherman Green in Fairfield.

I don’t know of any plant sales on Sunday. Maybe you can spend the day planting.

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CLASP — the great organization that runs group homes for adults with disabilities in Westport and other area towns — needs a few items.

To provide any from the list below — or donate funds toward their purchase — call 203-226-7895, ext. 144, or email rhammond@clasphomes.org.

  • ·     Gardening supplies (seeds, plants, soil, gloves, gardening tools)
  • ·     Yard décor (birdbaths or feeders, statues) and yard games
  • ·     Pop-up canopy with screens
  • ·     Gas grill
  • ·     Deck furniture
  • ·     Picnic table
  • ·     Carpeting
  • ·     Painting (interior and exterior).

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Not long ago, Westport Police participated in the state’s distracted driving campaign. They nabbed dozens of drivers.

Now it’s time to buckle up.

They’re joining the state Department of Transportation “Click It or Ticket” campaign. Officers will be vigorously enforcing seat belt laws, for drivers and passengers.

Connecticut law requires that drivers and passengers in the front seat, regardless of the age, as well as all children under 16 anywhere in a vehicle, to wear seat belts. Fines start at $92 for the first offense. For more information, click here.

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Westport resident Aiden Rourke has been selected as one of 8 Lawrenceville School Heely Scholars for the 2022-23 school year.  

The honor goes to rising 5th formers who demonstrate a keen interest and ability in American history.

Heely Scholars will spend 2 weeks this summer exploring World War II material in the school’s archives. In the fall they will take an advanced research seminar.

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While walking his little coton dog down Burr School Road this week, Gregg Tenser saw a feathered friend take a close look back. Gregg wondered if he was sizing up the dog for breakfast.

Here’s a great “Westport … Naturally” shot of an intense look, from a perch in a tree.

(Photo/Gregg Tenser)

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And finally … with all the plant sales going on today and tomorrow (see above), why not honor the greatest Plant of all?

 

 

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Roundup: Best Music Community, Dog Fest, Cajal Academy …

Posted on May 10, 2022 | Comments Off on Roundup: Best Music Community, Dog Fest, Cajal Academy …

How good a community for music is Westport?

One of the best.

That’s not “06880” talking. It’s the NAMM Foundation. They just named us one of their “Best Communities for Music Education.”

For the 10th year in a row.

Th honor comes for our public schools’ efforts to provide music access and education to all students. The application process included detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instructional time, facilities, music program support, and community programs.

Westport’s Music Department has benefited from partnerships with organizations like the Westport Library, Levitt Pavilion, PTA Cultural Arts, WestPAC and Westport Arts Advisory Committee.

Staples High School’s Candlelight Concert — involving hundreds of singers, and orchestra and band members — is one culmination of music programs at every school, and every level. (Photo/Danielle Dobin)

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The Asian American Pacific Island community — and allies — celebrate AAPI Heritage Month today (Tuesday, May 10), with a cash bar at MoCA Westport (19 Newtown Turnpike, 5 to 7 p.m.).

Mecha-Uma will be there with a food truck too. All are welcome!

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The Dog Festival returns to Winslow Park this Sunday (May 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) for its 6th run.

The event includes fun competitions (best tail wagger, best dressed, best kisser, best trick, best lap dog over 50 pounds, dog that most looks like its owner), demonstrations, Police K-9 presentations, an obstacle course, kids activities, information booths, food trucks and more.

Also on tap: over 60 pet-related vendors, caricaturists and giveaways.

Parking is available at the Westport Country Playhouse, and other nearby lots. The festival entrance fee is $10 per person, $30 for a family of 4. Proceeds benefit nonprofit organizations.

Dog owners can register for the competitions online or at the festival. To register for the competitions and for more information, click here.

The Dog Fest is sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, in association with TAILS.

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Yesterday’s “06880” lead story noted that Cajal Academy — a new school based on the latest neuroscientific research, for gifted students with special education needs — was going before the Planning & Zoning Commission last night.

In a unanimous vote, the board approved the application for 25 Sylvan Road South.

Stony Brook runs next to the 25 Sylvan Road South building.

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Sunday’s pro-choice rally was sponsored by DefenDemocracy.

This Saturday (May 14, 11 am to 1 p.m.), Planned Parenthood plans an event. It too is set for the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen downtown bridge.

Click here for details.

A sign held during Sunday’s pro-choice rally. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Among the winners of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County’s Daniel E. Offutt III Arts & Culture Empowerment Awards: William Felton, former chair of the Westport Arts Center who led a long effort to find, secure and improve its new home as MoCA Westport, on Newtown Turnpike.

Honored posthumously: Alexandra Korry. The Westporter was a trailblazing lawyer, educator and civil rights advocate, and the guiding spirit behind converting a 1935 Norwalk church into a space to enhance educational opportunities for underserved students, promote underrepresented local artists, and provide a welcoming space to enjoy art and music. The Norwalk Art Space opened last June, just a few months after she died.

An awards breakfast is set for the Shore & Country Club in Norwalk on June 15, (7:30 a.m.). Click here for tickets. 

Norwalk students flock to the Art Space.

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Do “Cocktails & Clams” go together?

Sure! That’s the name of Earthplace and Harbor Watch’s fundraiser, set for Copps Island Oysters in Norwalk on June 11 (5 to 7 p.m.). There’s an unlimited raw bar, hors d’oeuvres from Harbor Harvest, and wine and beer from Black Bear — plus a silent auction, live music, and very cool views.

Click here for tickets.

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Mother Nature surprises us in many ways. This little flower blooms unexpectedly, but beautifully. Spring has sprung, here in “Westport … Naturally.”

(Photo/JD Dworkow)

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And finally … Spinal Tap was a fake band. But Ric Parnell was a real drummer.

He was perfect for the perfectly played satirical 1984 film, “This is Spinal Tap.” He had the looks, the chops, and he was in on the joke.

Including the fact that, somehow, Spinal Tap’s drummers kept dying in bizarre ways. He himself (as Mick Shrimpton) spontaneously combusted on stage. When the fake band went out on tour in the 1990s — life imitating art — Parnell was introduced as Mick’s twin brother Rick.

Ric Parnell died this month in Missouli, Montana, of organ failure. He was 70.

But Spinal Tap lives on. Play the video below loud — all the way to 11! (Click here for a full obituary.)

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Roundup: Community Garden, Dog Fest, More Marathon …

Posted on October 18, 2021 | 4 comments

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The Westport Community Gardens are one of our town’s true hidden gems.

Located just south of Long Lots Elementary School, they’re more than a place to grow fruit, vegetables and flowers — though the dozens of plots are great for that.

It’s also (as the name says) a true community. Gardeners trade tips, bounty and gossip. They socialize, and throw parties. They nurture the soil, and friendships.

A few openings may come up soon. Some more may be available next spring. Westport residents and Westport town employees are eligible. To get on the waitlist, click here.

Remember: The early bird gets the worm.

Taking a quick break at the Westport Community Gardens.

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Among the winners at yesterday’s Dog Festival: Oliver, with best trick. He did a few sits, downs and shakes. His grand finale was a “big baby”: He jumped into owner Scott Martin’s arms.

Afterward, he posed (below) with Scott Martin, and kids Cody and Emrys Martin.

Missed all the action? What a bitch!

But the next Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored Dog Fest is less than a year away. In 2022, it returns to its regular spring slot.

(Photo/Kelsey Martin)

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Yesterday’s Roundup highlighted Todd Suchotliff. A newcomer to town, he’ll be running during next Sunday’s New York Marathon — through Westport. It’s a fundraiser for his mother, who died of leukemia 9 years ago tomorrow.

He created a Google Sheet — with mile markers and approximate times — for people to sign up to run or cheer for each mile along the route. He will start at 9 a.m., and plans to run an 8:42 mile pace.

For more information, email coachtoddwestport@gmail.com. To donate to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, click here.

Todd Suchotliff and his kids.

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Bamboo grows wild — and rapidly — in Westport.

I wrote about it in 2013. It continues today, as this “Westport … Naturally” photo from Narrow Rocks Road, off South Compo, shows.

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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And finally … happy 74th birthday to Laura Nyro. The singer/songwriter made many great recordings. But she’s best known for the many artists that had great success covering her tunes.

JC Martin adds: “Laura lived in Danbury for many years, and recorded some of her last material in a studio she built on her property. It was one of the first studios to have a separate floor for the drummer, detached from the rest of the band. For ‘Mother’s Spiritual’ she brought in Todd Rundgren to help produce some of those songs, along with her friend and Danbury neighbor Felix Cavaliere.

“She died of ovarian cancer in Danbury in 1997, at 49. Her ashes were scattered beneath a maple tree on the grounds of her house.”

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