Tag Archives: Don Memo

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

Posted on August 7, 2025 | 7 comments

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

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

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

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

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

Steve Shackelford and Jodi Harris.

=================================================

The Westport dining scene is about to change.

And “06880” is eating it up.

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

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

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

==================================================

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

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

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

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

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

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

==================================================

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

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

Now they’re adding a sister brand there.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Defender bars are definitely worth a field trip!

=================================================

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

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

The new phone number is 203.292.3077.

Jamming at the Gig Center.

=================================================

 

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

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

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

Click here for more information.

Works by Tom Kretsch

==================================================

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

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

The event will also be livestreamed on Zoom and YouTube.

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

==================================================

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

=================================================

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

Perhaps they didn’t have a reservation?

(Photo/Janine Scotti)

==================================================

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

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

7 Comments

Posted in Arts, Education, Environment, Library, Local business, Local politics, Real estate, Restaurants

Tagged , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Don Memo Closing, Merritt Parkway Exits, Parks & Rec Programs …

Posted on July 11, 2025 | 9 comments

One of Westport’s favorite restaurants will soon become a different favorite spot.

On August 16, Don Memo will serve its last meal. In early September, it reopens as Massi Co.

Named after owner Massimo Tullio, and backed by the Don Memo oand Whelk team, the new restaurant in the iconic stone building (Westport’s original Town Hall) will feature a “deeply personal Italian-American” concept

It will include Neapolitan brick oven pizzas, house-made pastas and craft cocktails. Chef Zach Hinman is in charge of the kitchen. (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)


Massimo Tullio (Photo courtesy of The Connecticut Edit)

=================================================

For as long as the Merritt Parkway has existed — nearly 90 years — Westport has had 2 exits: 41 and 42.

Soon, they’ll be gone.

In their place will be Exits 20 and 21.

The new numbers conform to federal standards, which mandate that exits show the approximate mileage from a starting point. With the Merritt, that’s the New York border.

New signs will be installed on the parkway beginning July 28. There will also be signs noting the “old exit” numbers. They’ll be in place for at least 2 years.

Other state highways have already been renumbered. The “Connecticut Turnpike” (I-95) will follow, either next year or in 2027.

So say goodbye to the Exit 42 cluster****. Soon, it will be the mess at Exit 21.

(For more information, click on this state Department of Transportation page.)

The sign may change. The traffic won’t.

==================================================

Summer is in full swing.

And Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department wants to make sure no one misses out on any action. For example:

Beach volleyball: Middle and high schoolers, all levels. Led by Brendan Giolitto, Staples High School coach.

Youth tennis (including peewees): All levels; fundamentals, technique and match play.

Swim lessons: Beginners and advanced; Stroke development, water safety and confidence.

Football skills and drills: Non-contact; focusing on speed, agility and position-specific drills. Led by LST Pro staff.

Baseball: Hitting, fielding, base running and teamwork; led by LST, in partnership with Westport Little League.

Tot N’ Play Camp: A week of sports, crafts, beach time and class camp, for pre-schoolers. Flexible scheduling, with a focus on friendship, teamwork and adventure.

Skyhaws Volleyball: Fundamentals like passing, setting, hitting and serving, in a fun, beginner-friendly environment.

Next Generation Skateboarding: From beginners to advanced: skate and shred safely and confidently.

The Grit Ninja: Obstacle courses challenge youngsters physically and mentally; build strength, agility and grit in an exciting, supportive setting.

Squirt & Parent ‘n’ Me programs: Introduce little ones to soccer, t-ball, lacrosse, track and field and more, with a helping hand. Build confidence and coordination in a playful, comforting environment.

Outdoor Fitness with Andrew Berman: An invigorating bodyweight workout class at Compo Beach. Focus on strength, balance and mobility, in a beautiful setting.

Click here for more information; then click the “Programs & Activities” tab on left. Questions? Call 203-341-5087.

==================================================

Jay Schadler is a noted journalist, photographer and artist.

For more than 3 decades he traveled the world as a correspondent and anchor for ABC News, “20/20,” “Nightline,” “Good Morning America,” National Geographic TV and others. His work has been featured too on Bravo and Discovery.

His new gig: podcaster, with Verso Studios at the Westport Library. Through intimate interviews, he tells stories of Westporters’ life transitions.

Many names are familiar. The 5 episodes in Season 1 include living a life with no memory, with Doug and Patti Brill; the grief of loss and the gift of love with Jenny and Anthony Capalbo; a new heart and a new life with Gerardo Lambert; turning tragedy into legacy with Jim Kudzo, and exploring talent and opportunity with Andrew Wilk.

Click here to listen on the Verso Studios podcast page, via the Turning Point webpage, or through podcast distributors like Spotify, Apple and Amazon.

(PS: If you’d like to be a guest in Season 2, fill out this form on this page.

=================================================

Two ticketed events, and one free show, highlight this weekend’s Levitt Pavilion schedule.

Umphrey’s McGee (tonight, Friday, 7 p.m.) and Michael Franti & Spearhead, with Cimafunk (Sunday, 5 p.m.) are the paid-ticket events.

Indie folk-rocker Sway Wild take the stage tomorrow (Satruday, 7:30 p.m.), for a free show.

Click here to purchase tickets, and for more information.

Michael Franti

Meanwhile, last night Richiman & Groove Nice brought their “American-style blues” all the way from South Korea to Westport.

Last night at the Levitt. (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

=================================================

Sure, Paul and Joanne Woodward will always be associated with their Westport home.

But they also owned a little 1-bedroom place in Manhattan.

Okay, not so little. It was 3,000 square feet — pretty big for a New York apartment.

And it was half of the top floor of a 15-story limestone co-op at 1120 Fifth Avenue.

With several terraces. and sweeping views of Central Park.

The property recently sold — after an intense bidding war — for $14 million. That’s more than 40% over the asking price.

The buyers’ names were not disclosed. They work in finance.

Click here for the full Wall Street Journal story. With photos. (Hat tip: Douglass Davidoff, Mary McGee)

In Westport, Paul Newman’s home overlooked the Aspetuck River. His New York apartment has a view of Central Park’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. (Photo/Evan Joseph Studios, courtesy of the Wall Street Journal)

==================================================

Hitch & the Giddyup are heading to Weston. Yee haw!

The country/bluegrass/soulful American band plays at “Music at the Barn” — the Weston History & Culture Center’s outdoor summer series — on July 27 (5:30 p.m.).

Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for non-members; children under 12; click here or purchase there. Bring a lawn chair, food and drinks (no food truck!).

==================================================

Francesca “Franny” Cenatiempo died at home, surrounded by her family. She was 33, and hahd battled cancer.

Francesca was born on July 4th, 1992 to Carmine and Sandra. At age 7 she was enrolled in Saint Catherine Academy; then as an adult, at Saint Catherine Center for Special Needs.

She loved school and her program, and was celebrated, cared for and loved by the staff.  She was surrounded by friends who reciprocated her unique love. At Saint Catherine Francesca met her longtime caregiver, Sonia Vielot, who became an integral part of her family.

Her obituary says, “Francesca had a gift for deeply touching the lives of everyone she met. She greeted people with open arms, accompanied by the biggest hug and an unforgettable smile. Her laughter echoed everywhere she went, as she saw the beauty and joy in every person and part of this world. She was a pasta lover, a Disney fanatic, and had an eye for all the cute boys. She enjoyed music, dancing, and splashing around at the beach.”

Francesca is survived by her loving parents, Carmine and Sandra Calise Cenatiempo; siblings CJ and Charlotte Cenatiempo; grandparents Michael Calise, Sally Palmer and Barbara Mehle; aunts and uncles Filippo and Pina Cenatiempo, Leonardo Cenatiempo, Alfredo and Rosa Cenatiempo, Stefano Cenatiempo, Giulio and Gabby Cenatiempo, Catherine and Don Lawson, Maria and Jon O’Herron, Bettina and Michael Colleen, and Frank and Robin Calise, and many cousins.

A celebration of her life is set for tomorrow (July 12, 11 a.m., St. Francis of Assisi, Weston). Donations may be made in her name to Saint Catherine Center for Special Needs. Condolences for the family may be left online.

Francesca Cenatiempo

=============================================

Frances Mande — a Westporter for nearly 70 years — died Wednesday. She was 103.

Born in Russia in 1922, she came to Brooklyn with her family when she was 7. She and her husband Irving met when she was 17, and married when she was 19.

Fran and Irv moved to Westport in 1956. They raised 3 children in the house where she lived until passing. The couple traveled the world together, until Irv’s death in 2006.

Fran loved attending shows at the Westport Country Playhouse, and taking her children and grandchildren to Compo Beach and Mario’s restaurant. She was a regular at the Senior Center, Westport Library and Levitt Pavilion. 

She also enjoyed the Westport Road Runners program. Her photo was in the Westport News after finishing a 10-mile race, in her 70s.

After “06880” wished her a happy birthday last month, she was lifted up by emails from readers.

A funeral is set for Sunday (July 13, 10 a.m., Temple Israel of Westport). Shiva will be held at her home. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Westport Library or Westport Senior Center. 

Fran Mande recently, at Compo Beach.

==================================================

Like any good mother, this one fed her little one:

Johanna Keyser Rossi — who took today’s spectacular “Westport … Naturally” image near Fresh Market — reports, “She fed him for a long time. So I assume there is only one baby osprey.”

==================================================

And finally … in honor of the new Merritt Parkway numbering system: This is the closest I could get.

(Whether you live in the 06880, 25 miles away, or 2,500, if you’re reading this, you’re part of our great online community. Thank you — and thanks too for clicking here, to support our work!)

9 Comments

Posted in Library, Media, Obituaries, Real estate, Restaurants, Sports, Transportation

Tagged , , , , ,

Roundup: Peter Frampton, Leaf Blowers, Crepes Choupette …

Posted on September 16, 2024 | 8 comments

Peter Frampton joined a long list of musical legends — from Willie Nelson and Cyndi Lauper to Smokey Robinson and Buckwheat Zydeco — when he headlined last night’s Levitt Pavilion annual fundraiser.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

The guitarist/singer’s show came alive, with — among other things — great graphics and a light show.

Peter Frampton (far right). He has inclusion body myositis, which prevents him from standing while performing. (Photo/Susan Garment)

(Photo/Susan Garment)

The pre-party, at Don Memo and Walrus Alley, drew a large crowd of fans and town officials.

Westport singer/songwriter Drew Angus — a popular Levitt Pavilion performer himself — was at the Peter Frampton pre-party. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The party and concert capped off a jam-packed weekend of Westport fundraisers, including Kristin Chenoweth at the Westport Country Playhouse, HarvestFest at Wakeman Town Farm, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s Slice of Saugatuck, and Band Aid for the Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services at Cedar Point Yacht Club.

Next week brings the Westport Rotary Club’s LobsterFest at Compo Beach, and the Westport Downtown Association’s annual Westoberfest.

Part of the Walrus Alley spread. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

===============================================

Kristin Schneeman and Liz Milwe — backers of Westport’s leaf blower regulations — have put up lawn signs reminding residents that gas blowers restrictions run through October 15.

“While this summer wasn’t perfect,” Kristin says, she perceived “significantly less gas leaf blower usage, which has been amazing.

“But after Labor Day it’s ticking up a bit. We want to remind folks that it’s electric-only for a few more weeks.”

==================================================

Westporters will soon have another dining spot on Church Lane.

Coming soon to Bedford Square, near The Blondinit: Crêpes Choupette.

(Photo and hat tip/Sal Liccione)

This is their third location. There are Choupettes already in Darien and New Haven.

The “fabrication traditonelle” (which means “small-scale production” crêperie) joins — in addition to the Israeli restaurant — Mrs. London’s Bakery, Spotted Horse, Pink Sumo and Emmy Squared.

=================================================

Next Sunday (September 22, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.), Blau House & Gardens hosts a special children’s event, with author/illustrator Guy Billout.

He’ll read and sign copies of “The Frog Who Wanted to See the Sea.” There’s also a garden scavenger hunt (recommended for ages 3-8).

Tickets ($25 per family) include a signed book and scavenger hunt. Additional copies can be reserved. Click here for tickets, and more information.

=================================================

The spectacular moon drew plenty of photographers this weekend.

Jay Babina — a freshman at Manhattanville College — took these shots on Friday and Saturday nights, from his Westport yard. He then created this collage.

He took both without a telescope. He used a 20-year-oldl Nikon D200, with a zoom lens.

Jay says, “I think it’s impressive how such an old camera can still take such quality photos. It’s also very Star Wars-looking.”

(Photo and collage/Jay Babina)

==================================================

When Johanna Keyser Rossi saw today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — milkweed pods shedding their seeds at Sherwood Island State Park’s West Beach — she thought, “usually I see only a few at a time. This is so good for the future of our monarch butterflies.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

==================================================

And finally … Tito Jackson, an original member with his siblings of the Jackson 5 who then went on to a solo career, died yesterday. He was 70, and suffered a heart attack.

Click here for a full obituary.

(From the Jackson 5 and Michael Frampton to gas-powered leaf blowers and restaurant news, “06880” entertains and informs readers every day. Please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

8 Comments

Posted in Children, Entertainment, Environment, Restaurants

Tagged , , , , , ,

Roundup: I-95 Live Webcam; Really Bad Driver; Gillespie Renovations …

Posted on May 4, 2024 | 5 comments

This was the scene yesterday in Norwalk, as workers dismantled the fire-damaged Fairfield Avenue I-95 overpass:

(Photo/News12 Connecticut)

Last night, massive “shears” were brought in from Long Island, to cut the metal. Work will continue all weekend.

Want to watch the ongoing operation, from the comfort of your home? Click here for this fascinating live webcam, courtesy of the state Department of Transportation.

==================================================

Just when you think you’ve seen everything … you realize you haven’t.

A driver yesterday — perhaps unhappy with the I-95-related traffic, perhaps confused, perhaps distracted, but definitely not someone you want behind the wheel — decided to create a new street, in the pedestrian alley between Don Memo and Barnes & Noble.

Employees of Walrus Alley finally stopped him.

(Hat tip and photo/Joelle Malec)

But that’s not all.

He also ran the red light right there.

And drove right past pedestrians in the crosswalk, to make that right hand turn off the Post Road into the very narrow alley.

You can’t make this stuff up.

Nor would you want to.

=================================================

The Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place men’s and women’s shelters, and the Westport Food Pantry at the same site, have temporarily closed.

Homes with Hope has embarked on a $1.2 million renovation of the Jesup Road facility.

Food pantry pick-ups can be made at the Sasco Creek Village community building (1655 Post Road East) across from Goodwill) every weekday except Wednesday, from 1 to 4 p.m.

“It’s sad,” says Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden. “But the result will be happy.”

Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place: temporarily closed.

==================================================

Marc Hartog appreciated “06880”‘s recent Roundup item, noting that AEDs are back in a number of public outdoor locations.

The deputy director of Westport Emergency Medical Service adds: “PulsePoint AED is an app that shows locations of public access AED (automated external defibrillators.

“As long as the user has location permission allowed on their cellphone, it shows the location of the closest AEDs, along with a picture of the location. Clicking on the picture then adds more specific information.

“For example, if I’m near Winslow Park, it says ‘Entrance behind Westport Country Playhouse, by map and dog fountain; address 295 Post Rd East.’

“It also shows who is responsible for that AED (in this case, Norwalk Hospital EMS), along with the email address of the responsible party.

“Or if I’m around Main Street, the map shows 3 public access AEDs: 2 inside Town Hall, 1 outside at the ball field in the rear parking lot.

“The only downside is that the app only shows AEDs that have been registered with PulsePoint by the entity that owns and is responsible for it. There may well be other public access AEDs downtown, possibly within stores or restaurants, but they are not registered and do not show up.

“We strongly encourage any business with an AED to register their location.”

The AED at Winslow Park. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

==================================================

The Westport Country Playhouse’s move to a new format — with plays scheduled for October through April, rather than the summer — will generate a lot of laughs.

In a good way. The 3 shows are comedies, in what the 94-year-old theater is called a “Season of Laughter.”

Each play runs for 3 weeks. The season also includes a holiday offering and musical revue.

“The 39 Steps” (October 22-November 9) is “a fast-paced frenzy of espionage and murderous mayhem … (mixing) Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film with a juicy spy novel, and a dash of Monty Python.”

“Native Gardens” (February 18-March 8) features 2 sets of neighbors, who become “feuding enemies in a backyard battle for the ages.”

“Theatre People” (March 25-April 12) is set in 1948, as Broadway stars gather in a Newport mansion for a weekend of “romance, chaos, and misunderstandings.”

The shorter-run productions are “A Sherlock Carol” (the family holiday show by artistic director Mark Shanahan, back after last year’s sold-out run; December 17-22), and “Broadway Scores at the Playhouse,” songs from the Golden Age to recent musicals (January 23-26).

Season ticket packages for all three longer-run productions start at $68. Tickets will go on sale soon. Click here for complete season details.

PS: In other Playhouse news, a limited number of tickets remain for Bernadette Peters’ evening of songs from music masters (May 19, 7 p.m.). Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Also: A third Mike Birbiglia “Please Stop the Ride” show has been added next month. It’s June 4 (8 p.m.).

Tickets to his June 7 performance are sold out. There are only a few seats left for the second one (June 5). Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Westport Country Playhouse (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

================================================

The Westport Book Shop is going to the dogs.

Exhibitor of the month Clark Hanford is showing oil paintings featuring dogs. They are painted in 19th century style, and are presented in antique frames.

Hanford has been an artist for over 5 decades, working in painting, clothing and sculpture. Before returning to Westport in 1985, the 1962 Staples High School graduate lived, worked and studied in London for 17 years, making and selling works from his Notting Hill shop.

He has created lifelike sculptures of Marlene Dietrich, Lucille Ball, Katherine Hepburn, Liz Taylor and others, dressed in period clothing made by Clark.

Hanford’s notable clients include Burt Bacharach, Demi Moore, John Entwistle, Elton John, Debbie Reynolds and David Bowie.

A reception is set for May 15 (6 to 7:30 p.m.).

Clark Hanford, at his Westport Book Shop exhibition.

===============================================

All month long, the Mid-Fairfield County Association of Realtors is running a food drive, to benefit Person-to-Person.

Items — including especially cereal, oatmeal, hearty soups, peanut butter and jelly, protein and granola bars, bags or boxes of rice, canned fruit and vegetables, pasta and sauce, dried and canned beans, nutrition bars, coffee and tea — can be dropped off at the MFCAR office (19 Imperial Avenue, weekdays between 9:30 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.).

The month-long drive ends with a shredding event (June 1, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Colonial Green). Anyone bringing a food donation gets complimentary shredding.

To give a monetary donation to People-to-People, scan the QR code below:

==================================================

Greens Farms Garden Club members are digging in the dirt, preparing for their annual plant sale.

It’s May 18 (9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sherman Green, Fairfield). They’ll sell locally grown perennials, annuals and surprises.

==================================================

Is there life (besides ours) in the universe?

No one knows. But Caleb Scharf’s insights are probably far better than the rest of us.

NASA’s senior scientist for astrobiology at the Ames Research Center returns to the Westport Astronomical Society’s free online lecture series. He’ll discuss “The Search for Life in the Universe: 2024 and Beyond” on May 21 (8 p.m.; click here for Zoom; click here for YouTube livestream).

This is his third appearance at the WAS. He’ll speak specifically about research in exoplanetary science, exploration of the solar system, and upcoming plans for Mars, Titan, and the Habitable Worlds Observatory (NASA’s future space telescope).

Hello out there!

==================================================

The Joggers Club is moving to the Greens Farms train station, with “fun runs” on Saturdays starting at 8 a.m. It’s a buildup series, free to all registrants in the Fairfield Half Marathon.

The Joggers Club also runs (ho ho) Track Nights (Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., Staples High School track) and a Kids Run Club (Sundays, 4 p.m., Staples High School track; $25 per session, grades K-8).

Joggers Club memberships ($50) include a free Lululemon running shirt ($78 value), a year of free coffee and bagels after each run, plus fitness and friends.

They’re on Strava, Facebook, Instagram and www.TheJoggersClub.com.

==================================================

The Cottage is offering a prix fixe, 4-course Mother’s Day meal.

From noon to 5 p.m. next Sunday (May 12; $110 per adult, $55 per child, not including tax and tip), chef Brian Lewis rolls out the red carpet for Mom and her family.

Click here for the menu, and reservations.

==================================================

When Fantasia headlined a tribute to Clive Davis recently at Carnegie Hall, she did so with her voice — and an elegant gown.

It was designed, Essence says, by Christian Siriano, “who has built quite a name for himself in the fashion industry. The lavender long sleeve dress featured a leg slit and a black feather trim all around the gown, causing a dramatic, old Hollywood effect.”

Siriano is — in addition to being a former Project Runway winner — a Westporter. His Collective West collection is on Post Road West.

Click here for the full Essence story. (Hat tip: Danielle Teplica)

Fantasia, and her Christian Siriano gown. (Photo courtesy of Essence)

==================================================

Lift Wellness will hold a ribbon cutting for the opening of its mental health and eating disorder partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient treatment for teens and adults at their 8 Myrtle Avenue location on May 17 (11 a.m.).

The timing is appropriate: This is Mental Health Awareness Month.

Attendees can enjoy food, take a tour, and pick up swag. Click here for more information.

=================================================

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo highlights the Longshore golf course, in full, beautiful bloom:

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

==================================================

And finally … Fantasia was wearing a non-Christian Siriano outfit (see story above) in this 411 million-view video.

But she still looks (and sounds) great.

(From high fashion to homeless shelters, “06880” has our town covered. This is “where Westport meets the world.” We rely on reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

5 Comments

Posted in Environment, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , ,

Playing The Westport Card

Posted on December 3, 2023 | Comments Off on Playing The Westport Card

What’s in your wallet?

Since this is Westport, probably a gold card, at least. Plus platinum.

Maybe even osmium, iridium, palladium and ruthenium.

Why not a Westport Card, too?

Just in time for the holiday season, it’s the newest venture from the Westport Downtown Association and Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

 

But it’s not entirely new.

During COVID, WestportMoms launched the “Local Love” card. This builds on that.

Recently, WDA member Lee Shufro and his son Jake — a Staples student, and part of the Westport Youth Commission — worked with Chamber director Matthew Mandell on business-building ideas.

Mandell proposed repurposing the card to be more inclusive, for all Westport merchants.

Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley loved the idea. Like Mandell, he too is a champion of all local businesses.

More than 3 dozen merchants quickly signed on. More join daily. The list includes clothing, gift, toy and liquor stores; restaurants; galleries; fitness centers; spas — even the Westport Country Playhouse. Click here for the full list.

Savvy + Grace is one place to use The Westport Card …

The Westport Card can be purchased in typical gift card denominations (plus a $2 fee). It works like a normal gift card, at participating businesses.

It can be sent electronically (email or text) as a gift, too.

“This is a win-win-win,” Shufro says.

“It’s great for merchants, great for residents, and great for Westport. Why buy a generic gift card like Amazon, when you can buy the Westport Card and keep it local?”

Statistics bear Shufro out. Studies show that local independent retailers recirculate 47% of their revenue back into the community; only 14% of national chains’ revenue stays there.

Meanwhile, local restaurants recirculate 73% of their revenue back to their community; the figure for national chains is 30%.

… and Don Memo is another. (Photo/Katherine Bruan)

Which card do you want in your wallet?

Gold or platinum? Or the one that’s even rarer than rhodium, tellurium and rhenium: the Westport Card?

Click here for more information, and to purchase the Westport Card.

(Speaking of Westport: “06880” is your hyper-local blog, featuring all kinds of news you can use. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Playing The Westport Card

Posted in Downtown, Local business, Restaurants

Tagged , , , ,

Westport’s Best Restaurant

Posted on June 13, 2023 | 10 comments

What restaurant is Westport’s best?

We can argue that forever (and often do).

But “06880” intern Colin Morgeson set out to find the answer.

He organized a social media survey. Then he and friends visited the 3 top choices.

Click below to see what they found. Then tell us your choices in the “Comments” section — and why.

(Remember: “06880” has a Restaurants tab at the top of our webpage, for easy access to menus and ordering. Click here — and bon appetit!)

10 Comments

Posted in Restaurants

Tagged , , ,

Roundup: High Honors, Restaurant News, Playhouse Tours …

Posted on June 2, 2023 | 2 comments

As graduation nears, every night brings a different celebration.

All are special. But the High Honors dinner at Staples last night was particularly meaningful.

Nearly 2 dozen students — the top 4% of the Class of 2023 — were honored for their achievements.

Each invited one teacher. Each educator spoke for a few minutes about “their” student.

Bonds between the teachers and teenagers were strong and deep. A wide variety of disciplines was represented: English, social studies, science, math and music.

There were stories of STEM students who found loves for literature and government; of conversations about life before and after school that transcended classrooms; of challenges made and surpassed.

Each student thanked their teachers — and their parents — for getting them where they are today.

There are many reasons to be fearful about the future of our world. Last night offered 21 reasons to be very, very optimistic.

High Honors students, front row (from left): Ryan Salik, Kyle Ambrose, Krishna Reddy, Matthew Shackelford, Tom Zhang, Jaden Mello, Eva Simonte, Quinn Mulvey, Meredith Mulhern, Sharmila Green, Lucia Wang, Rebecca Schussheim, Lilly Weisz. Rear:
Witt Lindau, Colin Morgeson, Nikhil Kanthan, Jet Tober, Katherine Valante, Reilly McCaffrey, Julia Herlyn, Janna Harrison Moore.

==================================================

Two bits of culinary news, both from Bill Taibe:

Kawa Ni’s rooftop now offers cocktails, wine, beer, sake bombs and snacks “up top” on Fridays and Saturdays (5 to 9 p.m.). Seating is first-come, first-served.

The rooftop is available all other nights for private events. Email manager@kawaniwestport.com.

Meanwhile, Don Memo offers music every Thursday from 6:30 p.m. on, at the patio in front of the Post Road restaurant. (Westport’s original Town Hall, for those who remember.)

(Speaking of dining: Don’t forget our “Restaurants” tab at the top of the “06880” home page (and here). It’s a handy link to our sponsors — including one-click menus.)

Music at Don Memo. (Photo/JC Martin)

================================================

The taping was not until 11 a.m. And it was not a Westport story.

But an NBC camera crew was at Staples High School’s Laddie Lawrence track before 9 a.m. yesterday. They were setting up for a few shots of Craig Melvin — the anchor who lives in Westport — as part of a “Today” show piece on a father-son track coaching duo.

They’re from Pittsburgh. But who’ll notice?

NBC’s “Today” camera crew at Staples. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Briggs)

==================================================

Also yesterday morning:

A Metro-North employee handed out computer and smartphone screen wipe cloths to commuters.

It was part of a “safety reminder initiative.”

On the back of the cloths is information about suicide prevention, including a phone number (800-273-TALK) and text (NEXT2U, to 741741) for people in crisis to use.

At the Westport train station yesterday. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

=================================================

Have you ever wanted to go backstage at the Westport Country Playhouse?

On Saturday, June 10 (1 to 4 p.m.), you can do that for free. See where sets and costumes are made. Hang out in the green room downstairs, and peek in the dressing rooms where Henry Fonda, Jane Fonda, Eartha Kitt, Paul Newman and so many other stars once dressed.

The day includes kids’ activities, music, food trucks and beer tastings.

The box office will be open too, for special ticket discounts.

Former Playhouse company manager Bruce Miller, with some of the 500 head shots near the dressing rooms, underneath the stage.

==================================================

Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between May 24-30.

An investigation following a mail theft led to an arrest for illegal possession of personal ID, identify theft, and illegal trafficking in personal identification.

An investigation following complaint that a check with stolen, altered and deposited led to an arrest for larceny, identity theft and forgery.

Police also issued the following citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 2 citations
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Distracted driving, not cellphone: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1
  • Failure to comply with federal regulations for a flotation device: 1
  • Failure to comply with federal regulations for a distress signal: 1
  • Operating a boat without certification: 1
  • Operating an unregistered vessel: 1

    Boats are like cars: They must be registered! (Photo/Daniel Rosenkranz)

==================================================

Yesterday’s early June weather was gorgeous. Sunset was early-June late; only 3 weeks remain until the days start getting shorter.

The sign at Hook’d said they’re open until 7:30 p.m. That’s part of their contract with the town.

But a few minutes after 7, this was the scene:

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

Looks like another summer of uncertainty for the beach concessionaire.

And another summer of big business at Old Mill Grocery & Deli, just down the road.

==================================================

The Westport Library Adult Summer Reading Challenge returns for its 7th year. There’s a fresh set of categories, to keep readers involved from now through the end of August.

There are 25 challenges: Read a book about an antihero, or one that should be a movie, or one with a neuro=diverse protagonist … you get the idea. Click here, then scroll down for the challenges.

After reading a book, fill out this form. There’s a leaderboard, to track your progress (and see what others are reading).

There are only 2 rules: Each category may be filled only once. And each book can be used for only 1 category.

Happy reading!

==================================================

Speaking of the Library:

Don’t forget tomorrow’s (Saturday, June 3, 7 p.m.) record release party. Verso Studios has produced the first vinyl record ever recorded, produced and released by a public library.

Tomorrow’s event features live performances from The Problem With Kids Today (New Haven), indie rock mainstay Ports of Spain (New Haven), Lulu Lewis duo Dylan Hundley & Pablo Martin (New York), and folk/Americana artist Kierstin Sieser.

The release party is free. A $25 ticket option includes a copy of Verso Records: Volume One (and a free drink). No record player? A digital copy will be available for $10.

Click here for more details about the record, and the release party.

==================================================

The Verso Records release party is not the only entertainment in town tomorrow. In fact, it’s not the only one at that parking lot.

Grammy-winning Gen Z jazz artist Samara Joy takes the Levitt Pavilion stage for a 7:30 p.m. show. This is a ticketed event; click here for tickets, and more information.

Samara Joy

================================================

The spotlight still shines on Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward.

The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County will honor the longtime Westporters with a special President’s Award. It recognizes their “significant impact on arts, culture, children’s education and illness and environmental preservation” in the county.

The Daniel E. Offutt III Arts and Culture Empowerment (ACE) Awards breakfast is set for June 21, at Norwalk Shore & Country Club. Over 200 arts and culture leaders, legislators, artists and others will attend. Clea Newman will accept the honor.

Over the years, Newman and Woodward actively supported many organizations, including the Westport Library, Westport Historical Society and Westport Country Playhouse. They also dedicated themselves to land preservation in Connecticut, including  the Newman-Poses Preserve near their Coleytown home.

Paul founded, with A.E. Hotchner, the Newman’s Own Foundation. Since 1982, it has given more than $600 million to worthy causes. Paul’s interest in helping children with serious illnesses lead to the establishment of The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp.

The breakfast will also honor Jenny Nelson of Westport. She’ll receive the Educator Award, for her work in Fairfield County.

Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward.

==================================================

The Westport Community Gardens — and “06880”‘s “Westport … Naturally” feature — proudly announce the birth of 4 killdeer chicks:

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

==================================================

And finally … on this day in 1835, PT Barnum — the future mayor of Bridgeport -and his circus started their first tour of the US.

(Quit clowning around! Please click here to support “06880.” Thank you!)

2 Comments

Posted in Beach, Library, Police, Restaurants, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , , , , ,

“06880”‘s Newest Feature: Restaurant Tab

Posted on March 2, 2023 | 7 comments

“06880” always looks for ways to serve our community. Readers always look for ways to find out what’s happening around town – including where to eat.

Which is why “06880” introduces today a new feature: a “Restaurants” tab. It appears permanently in two places on our home page: at the top (directly underneath “06880”), and on the right side (under “Pages”).

It’s a way to feed the hunger of our readers — for both information and food.

The drop-down menu (ho ho) includes:

  • Links directly to a restaurant’s website
  • Its social media handles
  • Its phone number
  • And a 2- to 3-sentence description (from them) about why they’re special.

Each restaurant can choose its own category. (NOTE: Restaurants pay a small fee to be listed.)

Click here (or above, or on the right side of the home page) to access the “Restaurants” tab. For more information on being listed, email 06880blog@gmail.com.

What to eat tonight? Click on our “Restaurants” tab!

7 Comments

Posted in Categories

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

New Downtown Association Head Blends Youth, Experience

Posted on February 16, 2022 | 11 comments

When Maxx Crowley left Westport for college, he figured he’d never return.

Less than a dozen years later, he’s the new president of the Westport Downtown Association. He replaces Randy Herbertson, who resigned after 6 years to chair the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee.

If Crowley’s name sounds familiar. it is. He’s vice president of SCA Crowley, the longtime commercial, residential and management real estate services firm.

It’s a family business he did not expect to be part of. After Long Lots Elementary, Bedford Middle School and Fairfield Prep, Crowley headed off to Loyola University in Baltimore.

Like many peers, he gravitated to New York for work (advertising, then real estate) and play. But, he realized, he missed Westport. “It’s a special place. I took it for granted,” he admits.

When COVID hit, New York’s real estate market ground to a halt. Westport’s, meanwhile, was on fire.

Joining his father Steve, and siblings Bobby and Judy, at the 40-year-old firm was a “perfect opportunity.” Moving here — and working at SCA’s Kings Highway North office, just off Main Street — made him realize how much he had missed.

Maxx Crowley (right) with (from left) his brother Bob Crowley and father Steve Crowley.

“My mom used to drag us to The Gap, and all the little stores. We’d have lunch at Onion Alley,” Crowley — now 29 years old — says. “Other times I’d ride my bike with my buddies to Starbucks and the library. My first date was at a restaurant downtown. My brother’s first job was at J. Crew. I always loved downtown.”

He knows there were years with “lots of vacancies. It lost some excitement, some of the mom-and-pop feel.”

But, Crowley says, downtown is in the midst of a major rebound. When Herbertson asked him to be part of the DMA — offering “a young perspective, and a fresh set of eyes” — he joined eagerly.

Crowley — who calls downtowns “the heartbeat” of a town — hopes to build on recent DMA initiatives like Westoberfest to make Westport’s a place people head to for fun.

Asked for a SWOT analysis of downtown, Crowley ticked off strengths: “attracting serious merchant talent; cool, fun stores; new restaurants — and being on the river is huge.”

Downtown offers shopping, entertainment, the Library — and solitude. (Photo/Patricia McMahon)

A weakness has been “not doing a good enough job connecting downtown with the rest of the town.” Riverside Avenue, Crowley says, has “incredible stores and restaurants. But it’s easily overlooked.”

One opportunity is “making the river a bigger center point. We can really tap into places like the Library, Levitt Pavilion and Remarkable Theater too.”

As for threats, Crowley cites the impact of online shopping, and the possibility that landlords might raise rents quickly in the future.

Returning to his “hearbeat” theme, the new DMA head wants Westport’s downtown to be a place where people “eat, meet and gather.” Recalling a trip to Italy — where entire towns gathered in a central square to watch World Cup matches on giant TV screens — Crowley envisions similar events here.

It’s what people want when they move here, he says. Though many want more space in Westport than in cities like New York, they miss having “everything you need on your block.” The desire to gather together is strong, he says.

So he’s excited about a variety of ideas. Bill Taibe wants to make Don Memo even more of an outdoor gathering spot. Fleet Feet’s Dave Wright has floated a road race from Compo Beach to downtown.

Dining at Don Memo, last summer. (Photo/Katherine Bruan)

And what about a barge/restaurant on the river? A water taxi connecting Compo, Longshore, Saugatuck and downtown?

Maxx Crowley is open to all that — and more. He says he has a strong board in place, and an excellent staff to implement new projects.

Everything and anything is on the table. The new Downtown Merchants Association  president is ready for action — in a downtown he never thought he’d be part of again.

11 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Library, Local business, Restaurants

Tagged , , , , ,

Roundup: Tom Brady, Don Memo, Magellanic Clouds …

Posted on January 3, 2022 | 5 comments

=======================================================

Eagle-eyed viewers may have recognized a Westport connection during a segment on yesterday’s ESPN Sunday NFL Countdown sow. The fictitious exhibition — “Tim Brady vs. The New York Jets,” showcasing the quarterback’s Tom record — was filmed at MoCA Westport.

ESPN rented the space last week. They wanted a realistic museum setting for their tribute to Brady.

The “exhibition” features masterpieces like The Hit (2001), Brady The Starter (2001), The Monday Massacre (2010), Backing  Up The Talk (2011), and a “poetic piece” entitled The Departure (2020).

Click below to see. MoCA begins 40 seconds in.

=======================================================

COVID has taken some steam out of Steam.

The popular newish coffee-and-more place at the head of Railroad Place says that “due to current conditions,” their evening café will be closed until further notice.

However, it’s available for afternoon and evening rentals, events and meet-ups.

Steam will still be open weekdays (6 a.m. to noon), and weekends (8 a.m. to noon).

Here’s a bit of sweet news: They’ve added Ferrara Bakery cannolis to their usual menu of bagels, donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and Balthazar Bakery croissants and pastries.

======================================================

Don Memo customers, staff — and many strangers — are pulling together for Kelli Pulkkinen.

The popular manager and server at the downtown restaurant has been diagnosed with a rare type of leukemia. She is just 31 years old.

Don Memo owner Bill Taibe quickly added a new cocktail. The “Universal Donor” helps raise money for Kelli. It costs $14, and includes Casco Viejo tequila, aperol, sparkling rosé, lemon and rose syrup. Rosé and tequila are 2 of her favorite drinks.

Taibe told the Westport News she is “a rock star” and “a fireball”: vibrant, funny and full of energy.

“She’s just a fireball,” he said. “Kali is the kind of person that just gives it her all.”

He added, “It’s hard enough battling cancer. If we can make sure that she doesn’t have to worry about her paychecks and bills and stuff for the time being that’s one less thing, and she can focus her energy.”

Click here for the full Westport News story. (Hat tip: Matthew Mandell)

The Don Memo drink

=====================================================

There was no rain yesterday morning.

But a full moon and high tide were enough to flood Compo Beach Road.

Compo Beach Road, at Quentin Road. (Photo/Tammy Barry)

Let’s hope this was the worst weather event of 2022.

Hey … a guy can dream.

====================================================

You never know what you’ll find at Baron’s South.

The other day, Wendy Crowther was walking off the path, in the woods near the Imperial Avenue entrance. She saw this messy scene:

(Photo/Wendy Crowther)

At first she thought it was a homeless encampment. As she got closer though, she realized the cans were rusty — but unopened.

She now thinks that months — or years — ago, someone stored supplies deep in an existing hole in the tree trunk. As time passed, more of it decayed.

Eventually the cavity collapsed, spilling the cache onto the ground. But who squirreled them away — and why — remains a mystery.

=======================================================

If you’ve always wanted to know about the “Physical Properties and History of the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds”: Here’s your chance!

Clare Burhenne — a Westport Astronomical Society member, and Ph.D. student at Rutgers University — will lecture on that very topic. The free event is set for January 18; click here for the Zoom link; click here for the YouTube livestream.


======================================================

Our daily Roundup “Westport … Naturally” feature has run a few photos of vultures recently.

Janine Scotti recently moved the Saugatuck River to a condo near the back of Compo Shopping Center. She was amused to see gulls circling the dumpster, a ways from the water.

This week though, they were bumped by a new flock of birds. Yep: vultures.

(Photo/Janine Scotti)

=======================================================

And finally … well, you knew this was coming, right?

5 Comments

Posted in Beach, Categories, Environment, Restaurants, Sports, Weather

Tagged , , , , , , ,