Tag Archives: Dustin Lowman

Roundup: Verso Graffiti, Sweet P Cookie Reel, Taste Of Westport Lineup …

Posted on April 6, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Verso Graffiti, Sweet P Cookie Reel, Taste Of Westport Lineup …

VersoFest continued yesterday — loudly, wide-rangingly, and entertainingly.

In the morning, visionary artist 5iveFingaz led a graffiti workshop. Within an hour, a blank canvas was covered with colorful, explosive art.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

(Photo copyright DinkinEsh Fotographix)

5iveFingaz (Photo copyright DinkinEsh Photographix)

Also yesterday morning, VersoFest attendees attempted to set a world record for the “loudest library.”

They got up to 119 decibels. That’s equivalent to a chain saw, firecrackers — or a rock concert.

Getting ready to get loud! (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

The afternoon continued with a panel discussion on Bruce Springsteen’s breakthrough album — “Born To Run,” celebrating its 50th anniversary — with 4 men who were there at the start.

Dick Wingate and Arlen Schumer hosted The Boss’ manager/producer Mike Appel, Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music executive director Bob Santelli; former Columbia Records executive Michael Pillot, and music culture writer Kenneth Womack.

Dick Wingate (left) with the Bruce Springsteen panel. (Photo courtesy of DinkinEsh Fotographix)

VersoFest concludes today, at 11 a.m. Paul Shaffer — legendary “Saturday Night Live” band member and “David Letterman” music director — chats with SNL Beehive Queen Christine Ohlman. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The other day, “06880” reported on Sweet P Bakery’s call-up to the Big Leagues.

The local bakery — begun by Westporters Bill and Andrea Pecoriello to provide job training and employment to people with disabilities — now sells its Colossal (and colossally good) cookies at Yankee Stadium (concourses 121 and 211).

Fans are eating them up. Sweet P’s order went from 10 dozen cookies per home stand, to 75 dozen.

National reporter and “06880” contributor Dave Briggs visited Sweet P Bakery the other day. In between bites, he shot a great behind-the-scenes Instagram reel.

Click here or below to meet the very talented bakers, and hear the back story of Westport’s newest baseball stars.

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In addition to VersoFest — and the large “Hands Off” demonstration — downtown Westport was also the site yesterday for retired Police Chief Ron Malone‘s wake and funeral.

The highly respected former chief — and Representative Town Meeting member — died last week. In his honor, police headquarters was draped in bunting.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Also yesterday: Dustin Lowman performed at Voices Café.

The 2011 Staples High School graduate — now a Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter, whose career is taking off quickly — entertained a sellout crowd, at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Westport’s monthly coffeehouse.

Next up: a tribute to Peter Paul & Mary (May 10), with Westport’s Suzanne Sheridan, the Kennedys and Mustard’s Retreat. Click here for details.

Dustin Lowman (Photo/David Vita)

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“Taste of Westport” is one of Westport’s most anticipated — and delicious — fundraisers of the year.

CLASP Homes — the sponsor and grateful recipient of proceeds from the 19th annual event (June 5, 6 p.m., The Inn at Longshore) has announced an all-star lineup of restaurants.

Each has a table, with tempting samples. They include:

  • Anan
  • Artisan
  • Bar Bushido
  • The Blondinit
  • The Boathouse at Saugatuck
  • The Bridge
  • Bridgewater Chocolate
  • Don Memo
  • Gabriele’s
  • Gruel Britannia
  • Grumpy Dumpling
  • La Plage
  • Little Pub
  • Magic 5 Pie
  • Mrs. London’s
  • Nômade
  • Nordic Fish
  • Oggi Gelato
  • Rive Bistro
  • Rizzuto’s
  • Romanacci
  • Tarantino
  • The Whelk
  • Zucca Gastrobar

If that doesn’t make you hungry, nothing will.

Tickets go on sale April 14th at TasteofWestport.com.

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Westporters who enjoy Grace Salmon Park — or just drive by on Imperial Avenue — have been intrigued by its new “Tulip Bulb.”

That’s the sculpture by Emily Teall, which she’s loaned to the town.

Next Sunday (April 13, 3 p.m.), the large patinated steel work will be officially dedicated, by the Westport Arts Advisory Committee. The ceremony will include poetry by town poet laureate Donna Disch, remarks from the artist, and music.

Artist Emily Teall, with her work. (Photo/Mary Schwartzman)

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Fire up your Easter Egg hunting nose and toes.

The Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation’s annual free event is April 19 (2 p.m., Long Lots Elementary School).

Bring a basket or bag. And get ready to pose for photos with the Easter Bunny!

 

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Skunk cabbage — which got its name from the odor given off by bruised leaves — is popping up all around town.

Eve Potts snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” image outside her home.

You can almost smell it, right?!

(Photo/Eve Potts) 

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And finally … on this date in 1947, the first Tony Awards were presented for theatrical achievement.

Musicals represented at the ceremony were “Street Scene,” “Brigadoon” and “Finian’s Rainbow.”

(And the award for best hyper-local blog goes to … “06880.” Meanwhile, best supporting cast goes to … “06880” readers. To earn that honor, please make a donation by clicking here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Budgets Passed, Playground Needs Volunteers, Longshore Golf Course Opens …

Posted on March 26, 2025 | 1 comment

Two budgets passed, in 2 days.

That was the work of the Board of Finance this week.

On Monday, the 5 members took about half an hour to unanimously approve the Board of Education’s $150.4 million 2025-26 budget.

Last night, they voted to adopt almost all of the 1st Selectwoman’s proposed $87.2 million budget.

The only cuts were to defund the Wheels2U train station ride-share program ($342,400 out of the total Westport Transit District request of $491,800), and $25,000 from Earthplace (out of $105,000),

The transportation cuts would leave the WTD with services solely for the elderly and disabled.

The BOF has voted to cut Transit District funding often in the past, citing low ridership. Nearly as often, it has been restored by the Representative Town Meeting.

Lee Caney, Jeff Hammer, Liz Heyer, Rich Hightower and Michael Keller voted for the reductions.

Danielle Dobin and Allyson Stollenwerck objected. During the Earthplace discussion, Dobin cited the importance of 62 acres of open space, and the Harbor Watch program.

On April 2 (Town Hall, 7:30 p.m.), the BOF will consider requests for restoration. The Representative Town Meeting then has the opportunity to restore funding for both items in May.

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Less than a month out from the Compo Beach playground build, there is plenty of news to report.

And there are plenty of ways to help.

Volutneers are still needed, from April 21-26. Click here to see the many jobs available. “Skilled” labor is important — but no building experinece is needed for other tasks.

Whether you renovated your home by yourself or never lifted a hammer, this is a great chance to get outside, contribute to the town, and meet interesting people.

Also needed: tools.

Saws, bolt cutters, tape measures, wheelbarrows, tents, hammers (of course): the playground committee needs them all.

They can be donated or loaned, for the duration of the build. (You don’t need to haul your own tools back and forth each day.) Click here to see all that’s needed, and click on what you can supply (and when you can drop it off). 

And for anyone who donated a picket for the previous rebuild, in 2009: If you want to keep yours as a souvenir, stop by the playground on SAturday, April 12 (9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m.). You can also to before or after volunteer shifts during the build, April 21-26.

For more information on the Compo Beach playground project, click here.

Volunteers building the Compo Beach playground, in 1989. Next month, you can join the rebuild.

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The Longshore golf course opens for the season this Friday (March 28).

“We invite golfers of every level to come and enjoy the beautifully manicured 18 holes that comprise this gem of the Westport parks system,” says Parks & Recreation Department director Erik Baribieri.

“Our head professional Jon Janik and course superintendent Sean Charles have been working hard to make sure the pro shop, staff and course are ready.”

Click here for golf course information, including advanced and same day tee time bookings. Pro Shop phone numbers are 203-221-0900 and 203-226-9785.

Westport residents who would like to purchase a golf handpass, or whose handpass has expired, can renew or purchase online here, or in person weekdays (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) at the Parks and Recreation Department near the first tee.

Fore! (Photo/Nicole Gorman)

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Looking for a cute puppy — especially one to bring home?

Fetch Rescue is sponsoring an adoption event this Sunday (March 30, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) at Earth Animal.

One of many puppies up for adoption this Sunday, at Earth Animal.

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Staples High School students racked up awards recently in 2 different areas: business and international relations.

Nine teams placed at the Future Business Leaders of America State Leadership Conference at Southern Connecticut State University.

“Competing in FBLA allows students to show their interest and abilities in subjects we do not teach at Staples,” says Sarah White, math instructor and FBLA advisor.

Staples students who placed at the FBLA State Leadership Conference include:

First Place: Ollie Vynerib (Advertising); Ethen Perry, Aidan Stubbs, Jackson Tracey (International Business)

Second Place: Jack Jacob (Securities & Investments); Max Benke, Jonah Bomback (Sports & Entertainment Management)

Third Place: Jay Nicholds, Luke Spera, RJ Wilks (Sales Presentation); Jack Leonard (Supply Chain Management)

Fourth Place: Chris Taylor (Supply Chain Management); Matthew Tybur (Organizational Leadership)

Fifth Place: Mikael Nagy (Introduction to Financial Math).

In addition, 4 students earned recognition at the National High School Model United Nations conference. Competing against schools from around the world, they displayed strong knowledge, diplomacy, and debating and leadership skills.

“Our students were very motivated and focused with their committees,” says Spanish teacher Horacio Ballesteros.

“This was an unforgettable experience for our students, with all grades represented in diverse contemporary groups addressing important global issues.”

Receiving the National High School Model United Nations Award of Merit:
Jacob Calandro and Julien McMahon (Special Political and Decolonization Committee);  Alessandra Spadea and Jori Altman (Social, Cultural, and Humanitarian Committee).

Julien McMahon and Jacob Calandro.

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Congratulations to Lisa Wexler!

The Westport/Weston probate judge received the Henry C. Lee Award from Jane Doe No More — a Connecticut non-profit devoted to erasing the stigma of sexual abuse — at their 14th annual gala last weekend.

Noted pathologist Dr. Henry Lee and Jane Doe No More founder Donna Palomba presented the award. It recognized Wexler’s work on the radio and in court to bring awareness and empathy to victims of sexual violence.

The Lisa Wexler Show airs on WICC (600 AM/95.9 FM) weekdays, from 10 a.m. to noon. Podcasts are available on Apple and Spotify, and at lisawexler.com.

Judge Lisa Wexler (center) with Dr. Henry C. Lee and Donna Palomba.

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Earthplace — the educational and environmental center tucked away in the northwest Westport woods — has a packed calendar for families and adults in April.

Activities include:

Craft n’ Sip: Windchimes (April 3, 6-8 p.m.; make a wind chime with natural materials, guided by naturalists; BYOB and snacks; 21+).

 Winged Wonders (April 6, 1 p.m.; bird-on-glove demonstration to learn about raptors).

Family Campfire: Vernal Pool Party (April 11, 6:30-8 p.m.; s’mores, spring crafts, animals and more).

Plein Air Painting on the Trails (April 12, 10 a.m.-noon; create artwork along the trail; all levels of artists, all mediums welcome; light refreshments).

Sunday Morning Ramble (April 13, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; hike).

Frog Watch Hike (April 23, 7-8 p.m.)

Environmental Learning Series: Lights Out Connecticut! (April 15, 7-8 p.m.; lecture and Q-and-A via Zoom; learn about light pollution and its effects on birds, wildlife and human health.

Group Canoe Paddle (April 27, 1-3 p.m.; join naturalists on the Saugatuck River; equipment provided).

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Meanwhile, registration closs soon for several after-school programs at Earthplace, for children and teenagers. They begin early next month, and include:

Li’l Naturalists (Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m.; open-ended outdoor play, grades K-2).

Eco Explorers (Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m.; themed adventure weeks, grades 3-5).

Nature Art Club (Thursdays, 4-5 p.m.; nature-based art, grades 3-6).

Free Range Homeschoolers (Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m.; explore streams, meadows and woods with naturalists; ages 4-11).

Teen Volunteer Club (Tuesdays or Thursdays, 4-5 p.m.; learn animal care skills with hands-on training

Junior Staff (Fridays, 4-5 p.m.; explore plants, insects and other local wildlife alongside naturalists, grades 6-12)

Also at Earthplace: Kids’ Night Out (March 28, 6-9 p.m.; ages 5-12). Drop your children off for an evening of fun and learning; then relax and enjoy your night off).

Click here for details, including registration, fees and more.


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Dustin Lowman — the 2011 Staples High School graduate/singer-songwriter making waves on the New York folk-ish scene — will play at Voices Café April 5.

That show is already sold out. But Dustin’s many fans can hear him interviewed by another former Westporter this Thursday (March 27, 2 p.m.).

Mike Zito has retired as a Staples radio and music production teacher. But he continues a longtime gig — hosting radio shows about American folk music — on WPKN, the eclectic and always interesting Bridgeport station.

In fact, Zito has been on ‘PKN since he was a student there, in the 1970s.

You listen on 89.5 FM, or click here for the livestream. (Hat tip: Jim Honeycutt)

Mike Zito

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo could be from anywhere along our coast. Pam Docters spotted these early spring reeds at Old Mill Beach.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming Earth Animal/Fetch Rescue adoption event (story above):

(Another day, another Roundup. Another reminder that “06880” relies on reader support. And another link to click on, to help. And another thank you, to all our contributors!)

 

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Roundup: Post Office Thefts, Hamlet Meeting, Arts News …

Posted on March 21, 2025 | 9 comments

For the past couple of years, Westport has suffered thefts from private mailboxes. Checks are stolen, altered and cashed.

Amazingly, thieves also hit the big blue drop box outside Westport’s main post office in Playhouse Square.

Last Friday night — in a stupendously surprising and brazen move — the mail drop inside the post office was victimized. (The outside box was too).

Bad guys apparently “fish” for mail through the small slot. The staff is gone at night, but the front part of the building is open.

Westport’s postal clerks (who are perhaps the friendliest and most helpful in the entire US Postal Service) advise handing mail — particularly checks — directly to them.

Even the mail slot on the left is no longer safe (after hours).

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The Planning & Zoning Commission meets next Thursday (March 27, 6 p.m., Zoom).

They’ll continue to discuss a request for special permit/coastal site plan approval for The Hamlet at Saugatuck: the mix of hotel, residential and non-residential uses in the area bordered by Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place, Franklin Street and Charles Street.


Part of the Hamlet at Saugatuck plan: a market, adjacent to Luciano Park, where boats are now stored in a private parking lot.

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For nearly 50 years, Neighborhood Studios has helped underserved children and those with special needs throughout Fairfield County.

Programs include an art institute for children ages 4-12; a dance academy for those as young as 3; theater for 6-12-year-olds; a Saturday studio; a music school, and a conservatory for teenagers serious about the visual arts, media, music, theater and dance. It’s hands-on, dynamic, fun. Neighborhood Studios offers hope, and changes lives.

Program graduates have gone on to attend colleges like Yale, the University of Connecticut, Howard University, Art Institute, Parsons School of Design, the New School, and Berklee College of Music. Some have become music or art teachers — and Broadway performers.

(That’s an added bonus. The goal of Neighborhood Studios is not to produce lifelong artists. It’s to use the arts to help each child achieve his or her potential — and, hopefully, nurture a lifelong love of the arts.)

It’s a small operation, with a big mission. And some of Neighborhood Studios’ driving forces are Westporters. Board members include Rita Appel, Bob Jacobs and Laurie Gross.

Laurie and Jeff Gross, their son Zack and his wife Sheera, Jim and Lizzie Wolf, Tauck and Brigade Capital Management are sponsors of a very cool “Dueling Pianos” fundraiser.

The April 24 event (7 p.m., Park City Music Hall, Black Rock) includes (or course) music — with a twist. Attendees can request favorite songs, then sing and dance along. There’s plenty of food and drinks, too. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking of the arts: Cabaret Olé — the fundraiser for the Staples High School Orphenians and VOCES8 Foundation that includes entertainment, Spanish tapas, a raffle and a silent auction — just got even better.

A VIP Flash Sale ticket — now just $170 — includes special seating, and a meet-and-greet (with photos) with “Wicked” star Mary Kate Morrissey, “Wicked” music director Dan Micciche, and more.

The raffle includes up to 10 nights at the Pineapple Beach Club in Antigua, theater tickets, restaurant gift cards and more. The silent auction features over 80 experiences and items. Bidding begins at noon on March 30; click here.

Cabaret Olé is March 30 (6 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church). Preferred tickets are $150; general admission is $125. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking (still) of entertanment: VersoFest has added another big name to next month’s music-and-more Westport Library event: 3-time Grammy Award-winning hip hop artist and co-founder of The Roots, Black Thought.

A conversation with “one of the best lyricists in hip hop history” and community leader June Archer is set for April 5 (4 p.m.; free).

Copies of Black Thought’s memoir, “The Upcycled Self: A Memoir on the Art of Becoming Who We Are,” will be for sale, with the author signing copies after the talk.

Black Thought and Questlove founded The Roots in 1987. From humble beginnings performing on Philadelphia street corners to commercial success, they expanded their reach as the house band for Jimmy Fallon, on “Late Night” and “The Tonight Show.”

Click here for more information on Black Thought. Click here for full details on VersoFest ’25.

Black Thought

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And more about music: Voices Café often attracts interesting artists, from up and down the East Coast.

On April 5, one of them is a homegrown talent.

In fact, very talented.

Dustin Lowman — a 2011 Staples High School graduate, now making his name as a New York-based singer/songwriter — opens for Lucy Kaplansky.

Dustin says: “In the years since leaving Westport, I’ve forged an unconventional path, using the tools that growing up there afforded me.

Livingston Taylor says,“Dustin is on the path of a terrific musical career. His musical voice is waiting to be heard by those hungry for the next real thing.”

Kaplansky has gained a fervid following over 3 decades for her folk-inflected singing and songwriting.

Click here for tickets about the show at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport, and more information.

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Hey, Staples High School Class of 1985: Your 40th (!) reunion is coming!

Organizers have planned a welcome gathering on July 18 at the Black Duck, followed by a July 19 dinner at Saugatuck Harbor Yacht Club, and brunch at Compo the next morning.

Email stapleshs1985@gmail.com for more information, or click here to sign up.

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Female high school seniors who plan to continue their education at a college or vocational school can apply for a $3,000 Philanthropic Educational Organization scholarship.

Criteria include academic success, community service and financial need. For more information click here, or email pal9948@aol.com.

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Staples graduate and prolific author Carl Addison Swanson has a new book out. It’s called “Thank You For Your Service!”

The author says: “The beloved boat bum Hush McCormick is back on center stage as he is hired by a veteran’s wife to get her husband out of an immigrant detention center in Buffalo.

“While the vet in question served his country honorably in Iraq with 2 deployments, he is not a naturalized citizen, and subject to deportation if he commits 3 misdemeanors or 1 felony. Follow Hush and his small band of Marines who try the impossible: help a fellow Marine get out of federal prison.”

Click here to order, and for more information.

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For today’s “Westport …. Naturally” feature, we head to Nash’s Pond.

And a fine feathered photo by Dan Nash.

(Photo/Dan Nash)

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And finally … hey, didn’t Bob Dylan kind of predict the mail drop thefts (story above) in this song?

(Whether you’re in Westport, Mobile, Memphis — or anywhere else in the world — if you enjoy “06880,” we hope you support our work. As Dylan says; “I want you.” Please click here to donate. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Library, Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck, Staples HS

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Roundup: Athletic Field Lights, Traffic Agent Celebration, Hot Chocolate Pop-up …

Posted on February 26, 2025 | 7 comments

In 2011 — after years of court battles — town officials and neighbors reached an agreement to add lights to the Staples High School football field.

The court-ordered settlement precluded lighting other Westport fields, besides PJ Romano (behind Saugatuck Elementary School), and the Greens Farms Elementary School softball diamond.

The agreement expired a couple of years ago. On Monday — after long negotaitions — the Planning & Zoning Commission approved 5-1 (with 1 abstention) a text amendment to allow lights at other sites.

Each proposal will be reviewed by the P&Z. Among the requirements:

  • Notification of all neighbors within 250 feet. 
  • Screening for residential properties.
  • Most practices and games must end by 9 p.m.

Paul Lane Field (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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For 25 years, traffic agent Jerry Waldron has been a Westport Police Department staple.

Commuters and residents see him directing traffic at the Route 1 and 33 intersection and by the Cribari Bridge, or patrolling the railroad station and downtown parking lots.

Not bad, for a 90-year-old.

Yesterday, the WPD celebrated Jerry’s milestone birthday, at police headquarters.

Friends, family and officers — current and retired (all younger) — threw him a surprise party.

Jerry was surprised, and grateful.

But he’s not slowing down. He will be back at work tomorrow, directing lunch hour traffic at 1 and 33.

If you see him, wish him a belated “happy birthday.”

Maybe — considering all that traffic — a wave is better than a honk.

Happy 90th, Jerry Waldron!

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In addition to Jerry Waldron’s birthday, this is also Eating Disorder Awareness Week.

In its honor, Lift Wellness Group hosts a hot chocolate pop-up bar today (Wednesday, February 26, 11 a.m.) at their 8 Myrtle Avenue office.

They hope to shine a light on eating disorders, which have the second highest mortality rate of any mental illness.

And, of course, to offer a nice, tasty treat. The public is invited.


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The Compo Beach playground renovation is about to begin.

As “06880” noted yesterday, the Playground Committee has ensured that anyone who bought a fundraising picket during the last rebuild — 19 years ago — can claim it as a souvenir.

Jennifer Seideman offers more good news about the beloved site. She writes:

“While walking at Compo Beach yesterday, I noticed the project has begun. Of course it makes me nostalgic, as my twins were newborns when the last one was installed. We have many fine memories at that playground.

“I saw that the workers were thoughtful enough to gather together some shoes they uncovered while digging up the old playground.

“They created a ‘lost and found’ space on top of a garbage can near the boardwalk. Here is a photo that may help some families with missing shoes.”

“I will look forward to watching the transformation of the playground, seeing many families enjoy it and make it part of their special experiences in Westport as my children did,” she adds.

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For 3 weekends next month, Weston’s Lachat Town Farm becomes a Brooklyn restaurant.

That’s the setting for “Seared,” a comedy that brings audiences into a kitchen.

First produced off-Broadway in 2019, the show earned Outer Critics Circle Awards. As garlic and onions sizzle on stage, the play explores conflicts between artistic passion and the pressures of the business world.

“Seared” is produced by Diana Muller, formerly of Play With Your Food lunchtime theater.

Show dates are March 7 through 23: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 3 p.m. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Voices Café often attracts interesting artists, from up and down the East Coast.

On April 5, one of them is a homegrown talent.

In fact, very talented.

Dustin Lowman — a 2011 Staples High School graduate, now making his name as a New York-based singer/songwriter — opens for Lucy Kaplansky.

Dustin says: “In the years since leaving Westport, I’ve forged an unconventional path, using the tools that growing up there afforded me.

“The path has been winding — from Vermont to Nashville to Chicago, and lately to Brooklyn — but its ineluctable root is Westport. I think at 32 that I’m too old for the title ‘The Prodigal Son’; nonetheless, returning to Westport to perform is like the most wonderful version of show and tell: showing the people who gave me so much what their gifts have done for me, and telling them the story of what I’ve tried to do with them.”

Click here for tickets about the show at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport, and more information.

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In today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature, at least a dozen crows blend in on a barren tree, at Compo Shopping Center.

Can you see them all? They’re there!

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … this is one of my least favorite songs of all time. I truly despise it.

But — after the Planning & Zoning Commission’s decision about athletic fields (story above), it does work today.

(Attention, “06880” readers: You can light up my life by clicking here, to show your tax-deductible support of this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Absentee Ballots, Traffic Safety, Longshore Shed …

Posted on October 16, 2024 | 4 comments

“06880” has reported several times on early voting — used for the first time in Connecticut this fall for a presidential election. (Click here, then scroll down for details.)

Here’s info on absentee ballots:

Connecticut law allows you to receive an absentee ballot if you cannot appear at your assigned polling place on Election Day because of active service in the military, absence from the town in which you are eligible to vote, sickness, religious tenets that forbid secular activity on the day of the election, duties as an election official at a polling place other than your own during all of the hours of voting, or physical disability. To receive your absentee ballot, please complete, sign, and submit an application online.

Please provide your name, date of birth, and town as it appears in the voter record in order to look up and verify your voter information.

Click here to complete an absentee ballot request.

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The second Westport Safety Action Plan public meeting is tomorrow (Thursday, October 17, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

Officials will present results of the recent public survey, and offer safety analysis and information on project selection.

Click here to learn more about the Westport Safety Action Plan.

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Westport has begun the process to replace the maintenance building in Longshore.

That’s the shed that, ever since the town bought the 188-acre property in 1960, has occupied prime real estate, between the Inn and tennis court/pool parking lots.

The new site may be where the brush dump is now located.

Click here for more information.

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This is the final week for Play With Your Food.

There was a performance yesterday of the staged reading, script-in-hand series (plus delicious lunch) that has entertained and delighted audiences at local venues for 20 years.

There have been 350 performances, with 200 professional actors and 135 playwrights.

Additional shows are today (Wednesday) at the Pequot Library in Southport, and tomorrow (Thursday) at Greenwich Arts Council.

“All good things must come to an end,” Carole Schweid, artistic director for the series’ organizer, JIB Productions, told “06880” in July.

She has had health issues, and executive producer Diana Muller is retiring.

Many local actors turned out to say farewell yesterday. The cast included several long-time favorites, including Weston’s James Naughton.

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker awarded Schweid honorary recognition for the 2-decade run of one-act plays.

“They have been theatrical jewels for Westport theater fans,” says Marcia Falk.

She’s volunteered with the crew for 7 years. “I loved being part of such an exceptional Westport tradition,” Marcia says.

Brava, Carole and Diana. Thank you for 20 years of inspiring, thought-provoking, and much-needed entertainment!

Of course, audiences at the final Westport “Play With Your Food” performance celebrated with cake. (Photo/Marcia Falk)

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Michael Chait is a Westport photographer, known for his fresh looks at familiar local images.

Now those photos will be on sale, at a pre-holiday discount of 30%.

The event is Sunday, November 10 (2 to 5 p.m.) at his studio — which, fittingly, is in one of Westport’s most historic buildings.

It’s on the second floor of 11 Riverside Avenue. The building — long owned by the Gault family — is where, in the 1800s, merchant ships tied up.

National Hall (Photo/Michael Chait)

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It’s been a big year for Dustin Lowman.

The 2011 Staples High School and 2015 Middlebury College graduate performed at his first music festival (Black Bear Americana Fest); began hosting a Bob Dylan series at Cafe Wha?; opened for prominent artists like Marcellus Hall, Will Dailey and Ira Wolf, and got his first radio airplay.

Now he’s released his first new music in 6 years.

“Invulnerable” — his album of original songs — is available now. It straddles 2 stylistic worlds: the discursive balladeering of archetypal folk, and the more impressionistic lyricism of post-Dylan folk.

Dustin — who performed at last summer’s Soundview Stroll at Compo Beach — is booking concerts for the coming months.

We look forward to his “bringing it all back home.” In the meantime, you can listen to “Invulnerable” below. (Be sure to click the three-stripe icon in the upper right.)

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Staples High School’s October Students of the Month are seniors Brianna Caporale and Henry Lobsenz, juniors Sarah Kalb and Grady McHugh, sophomores Jace Darby and Maya Stafford, and freshmen Derin Leon and Moni Mazaheri.

Those students “help make Staples a welcoming place for their peers and teachers alike,” says principal Stafford Thomas.

“They are the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together.”

Nominations come from teachers, who select “all-around good citizens.”

October Students of the Month (from left): Grady McHugh, Henry Lobsenz, Derin Leon, Jace Darby, Sarah Kalb, Maya Stafford, Brianna Caporale. Missing: Moni Mazaheri.

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More Staples news: Kate Bulkeley, Olivia Cohn and Olivia Saw will represent the schools next months, at the 11th Normandy International Youth Leadership Summit in Le Havre, France.

Delegates are  high performing students interested in world affairs. At the event, the Westporters and other teens from 18 countries around the globe will develop action plans to address an issue affecting their community and the world — then implement them.

From left: Kate Bulkeley, Olivia Saw, Olivia Cohn.

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More Staples news: The cheer team hosts an Election Day clinic for grades 1-8 (November 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

It’s fun — and a fundraiser for the squad.

The fee of $75 before November 1, $85 after includes lunch and a t-shirt. Click here to register.

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Many drivers treat the stop sign at Bayberry Lane and Easton Road as a suggestion, not a command.

Perhaps this recent addition will make them put on the brakes, and pay attention:

(Photo/Sandy Rothenberg)

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Several readers sent photos of the Tsuchinshan-ATLAS comet that streaked over the area yesterday.

Unfortunately, it’s hard to photograph a comet. They’re far away, and they fly by fast.

Here’s one that shows a bit of the show, from Gabriela Hayes in Weston:

(Photo/Gabriela Hayes)

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Affordable housing — one of Westport’s hottest topics — was the subject of yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club luncheon talk.

David Newberg — chair of the Westport Housing Authority since 2004 — discussed the past, present and future of local affordable housing.

The WSA owns, manages and develops affordable housing in town. Their 221 units house 450 people, most of whom are from Westport. The WHA has spent $65 million dollars over the years restoring and developing these units.

Newberg said that the major obstacle to building more units to meet demand is the scarcity of buildable land. The major reason that land is so hard to come by, he noted, is that people generally do not want affordable housing in their neighborhoods. It can take years to get land allocated for this purpose.

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

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Nature is always on view at Sherwood Island State Park.

This week, Deb Krayson captured an Alfred Hitchcock-themed image for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Deb Krayson)

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And finally … in honor of the Sherwood Island photo above:

(It is always the season to support “06880.” Please click here for a tax-deductible donation. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Saugatuck Sweets, Valentine’s Sweets, Haiku …

Posted on February 9, 2022 | 2 comments

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Last night’s Saugatuck Elementary School 5th grade orchestra and chorus concert was the first such in-person event in 2 years.

To celebrate afterward, kids and parents headed to Saugatuck Sweets. To their dismay, they learned their favorite shop closes at 8 p.m.

To their delight, owners and employees kept the place open late.

Grateful parent Felicia Sale says, “Thank you Saugatuck Sweets!”

Celebrating at Saugatuck Sweets.

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United Way of Coastal Fairfield County has awarded the town of Westport $2,000. The funds — and a supply of KN95 masks — support residents impacted by COVID, along with a supply of KN95 protective face masks.

This is the third round of United Way grants to help during the pandemic. It brings to 6,500 the number of masks donated to residents.  A previous award of gift cards helped ease the way for struggling residents.

United Way has also helped area agencies, including Homes with Hope, during COVID.

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Westport ❤s Local to Market. And the aptly named food-and-more store celebrates upcoming Valentine’s Day with a few specials this weekend.

This Saturday (February 12, 1 to 4 p.m.), Locavore Kitchens offers the debut of heart meringues, and tastings of shortbread cookies.

Dustin Lowman — one of Westport’s favorite singer/songwriter/guitarists — plays Saturday too, from 2 to 4 p.m.

And, of course, there’s a full array of Valentine’s goodies, from BE Chocolat and Knipschildt.

Dustin Lowman

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Speaking of the Lowman family:

Poet laureate

Presents great haiku workshop

At Wakeman Town Farm

It’s not great haiku. But that’s what’s happening February 28 (7 p.m.) at Wakeman Town Farm.

Westport’s own Diane Lowman (aka Dustin’s mother) will help you learn to write concisely and beautifully — well, at least more beautifully than my effort. The Farm will serve as inspiration. Click here for details and registration.

Haiku, by Westport poet laureate Diane Lowman

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Fans of Mark Twain and/or music will enjoy the Westport Library’s February 27 event.

Westport composer Barbara Backlar Reis will present songs and commentary from her original collaboration “My Millionaire.” The musical is based on Twain’s short story, “The Million Pound Bank Note.”

The show explores the themes of money and power and how people behave toward those who possess them. Click here for details, and registration.

Coming (sort of) to the Westport Library

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The family of Roberta Eggart writes that their “proud stage manager, assistant to Michael Sottile, writer, dancer, sister, mother of 3, widow, comedy texter, giver of gift cards to strangers and collector of stray humans, died peacefully on January 26 at the age of doesn’t matter. She will be missed by all who interacted with her.”

She lived in Westport for 3 decades, and knew nearly everyone. She is survived by her children Kat, Casey and Jesse Eggart, and grandson Kai.

Kat calls her mother “one of a kind, and a huge influence in so many people’s lives. She loved to dance, sing and write. She was  the best stage manager in the world, and the coolest mom in town!”

The family adds, “A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Light a candle and wish her well. That’s how she rolled.”

Roberta Eggart

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Nancy Prevo Andersen — believed to be the last surviving member of Staples High School’s Class of 1941 — died recently in Texas. She was 98 years old.

A noted illustrator and artist who showed frequently in the Southwest and Mexico, she was married to Bill Andersen (Staples ’42). Nancy’s father-in-law, Einar Andersen — longtime president of Westport Bank & Trust — helped put together financing for the town’s purchase of Longshore in 1959.

Nancy and Bill had 4 children: Nonnie, Lee, Diane and BJ. Further details on survivors and services were unavailable. (Hat tips: Carl Addison Swanson, Tom Allen)

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Jerry Kuyper sends along today’s “Westport … Naturally” image, with this comment: “At our feeder, birds of a different feather flock together.”

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … to get you in the mood for Dustin Lowman’s appearance this Saturday at Local to Market (above), check out this video:

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Facing Grief, To Live A Full Life

Posted on January 26, 2022 | 1 comment

Dustin Lowman and Julie Blitzer met at a Westport Little League field.

There — as Dustin coached Julie’s son’s team of young boys — he and she talked about death.

We all experience loss — but we seldom know how to deal with it. Julie — who has been trained by the Grief Recovery Institute — shows us how, with insight, wisdom and compassion.

Dustin is still in his 20s. A 2011 Staples High School graduate, he’s now a freelance writer and musician. Most people his age, doing what he’s doing, don’t think about loss and grief.

But he immediately got what Julie said.

“The general perception of grief is that it’s unpleasant,” Dustin notes. “It actually gives you a chance to reflect, and go inward. If you face it head on, it doesn’t have to be negative.”

Julie Blitzer

When Julie encourages people to tell stories and share memories during the grieving process, she says, it inevitably leads to lightness and laughter. It’s fulfilling, offering opportunities to share, connect, and appreciate life.

“Looking at the monster under the bed makes it less scary — especially when you do it with others,” adds Diane Lowman. She’s Dustin’s mother, and Westport’s poet laureate.

On February 2 (6:30 to 8 p.m.), Diane and Julie team up to offer a free workshop at the Westport Library.

Through writing and mindfulness exercises, “Exploring Grief, Mortality and Vitality” will help participants address the 4 aspects of the human experience –mental, physical, emotional and spiritual — in order to gain a life-affirming perspective about death.

“You don’t have to be grieving to find a benefit” from their session, Diane explains. It’s designed for anyone who wants to lead “a more vital life,” and be prepared for loss whenever it arises.

“The biggest pain point is unresolved grief,” Diane says.

“If we can be more mindful of grief during life, we can lessen that pain.”

(For more information, and to register for “Grief, Mortality and Vitality,” click here. For Julie Blitzer’s website, click here.) 

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Posted in Library, Sports

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Donald And Dustin Lowman: Youth Sports Get Big League TV Treatment

Posted on August 12, 2021 | 5 comments

Last winter, as Westport edged slowly out of the coronavirus crisis, the youth basketball travel program instituted a strict rule: Only one parent per player could attend games.

Donald Lowman’s 12-year-old son Dhilan was on the team. Donald told parents he could help. He’d broadcast contests on Instagram.

Donald is not a sportscaster. He runs a search and consulting firm with Korn Ferry, focusing on benefits. But he and his son Dustin — a 2011 Staples High School and 2015 Middlebury College graduate, now a freelance writer and musician — are avid Mets fans. They love the announcers’ spirit and camaraderie. They figured they could augment Donald’s iPhone camerawork with their own banter.

The Lowmans’ setup was not sophisticated. (Then again, middle school gyms are not Citi Field.) But parents loved it.

Some said they preferred Donald and Dustin’s feeds to watching games in person. Thanks to the announcers, they knew more about what was going on.

Moms and dads were not the only viewers. Grandparents far from Westport tuned it. It was an exciting, fun way to connect with their grandsons. Some had not seen them in a year.

Travel basketball season ended. Travel baseball began.

“Not everyone wants to drive to Milford,” Donald notes. So he (who had coached all 3 of his sons) and Dustin (who remembered his Little League days fondly) headed out to left field, where their camera could  zoom in on the batter’s box.

Donald did play-by-play. Dustin was the color analyst. In between action — and in baseball, there’s lots of that — they riffed on their shared passion: music and pop culture trivia.

“We both know an enormous amount of useless information,” Dustin says. “It’s not useful anywhere else except here.”

The broadcasters learned each player’s tendencies and special talents. Parents loved that.

Donald and Dustin’s genuine enthusiasm for the game and its young players was infectious. So were Dustin’s insights into his own Little League experience, more than a decade earlier.

Donald and Dustin Lowman, at Westport’s 10U state championship game.

Watching live on Instagram was great. Some viewers — including the players themselves — also watched afterward. “I wish we had that when I was playing,” Dustin says.

Dhilan’s team lost in the district all-star finals. But parents of the 10U team — which was still playing — offered to pay Donald and Dustin to broadcast the state championship.

The duo did it for free. A friend of a coach provided a hi-def camera, mixing board, and headphones. This was the Big Time (Little League-style).

They had by far their largest audience: 500 viewers.

Donald has a full-time job. Dustin has his writing and music projects. They’re not going to turn this into a full-time gig.

But they’re not powering off Donald’s iPhone, either.

The Lowmans are thinking about how to turn their avocation into an after-school project. They’d especially like to reach out to youngsters in neighboring towns, who may not have access to the TV facilities in their schools that Westport kids do.

But enough pre-game chatter. Get some peanuts and Crackerjack. Grab a seat. Then click below.

It’s time to listen to Donald and Dustin’s state championship 10U call.

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Posted in Children, Media, Sports

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Jake Bernard’s “City Of Love”

Posted on December 30, 2016 | 3 comments

Jake Yarmoff is a singer/songwriter. So it’s not surprising that he cites Alice Lipson as a major influence. At Staples High School — from which he graduated in 2010 — the choral teacher helped him hone his smooth sound.

But he also was mentored by English instructor Julia McNamee. “She woke me up my last 2 years there, ” Yarmoff — who now goes by the easier-to-remember name Jake Bernard — says. “She taught me to be harder on myself, and made me the writer I am.”

Jake Bernard

Jake Bernard

Even math teacher Lenny Klein made an impact. “His policy of total honesty and great sense of humor were so important,” Bernard says. “He’s all about taking your work seriously — but not yourself.”

With that background, it’s not too surprising that at Penn State the aspiring entertainer majored in … finance. And minored in sociology.

He interned with Vanguard after junior year, then joined the investment firm full-time in financial sales at its Philadelphia headquarters. Bernard calls Vanguard “a great company, and a fantastic experience.” But he left 8 months ago.

“I knew I had somewhere else to be,” he says simply.

That “somewhere else” was metaphorical — not physical. He remained in Philly, and dedicated himself to his musical craft.

“My goal in my career is to have a positive impact — to inspire and give ‘wow’ moments, like other musicians have for me,” Bernard says.

“I want to make people smile, laugh and be their full selves. Ever since I was little, in every interaction with people — even outside of music — that’s been my aim.”

So Bernard wrote songs. He played. And he’s been in the studio, recording a series of singles he’ll release over the coming months.

Right now, “City of Love” is getting a lot of attention. And love.

It’s a 2-way street. Bernard has come to appreciate Philadelphia — a place that, growing up in Westport, he never really thought of — for its small-town-in-a-big-city vibe.

It took several months to get the tune right. But it — and a music video that shows Bernard singing and playing in some of Philadelphia’s most iconic spots (yes, of course including the “Rocky” steps!) — is a catchy, compelling love song to his adopted city.

Bernard knows that — musically speaking — the City of (Brotherly) Love is not in the same league as New York, Los Angeles, Nashville or Austin. It does have a lively hip hop, rap and jazz scene.

But the “beach pop” genre that Bernard specializes in (think Jason Mraz, and Fairfield’s own John Mayer) is wide open. He hopes to fill it.

Jake Bernard, in the city he loves.

Jake Bernard, in the city he loves.

Yet he retains his Westport roots. He recently performed at Toquet Hall with Alan Southworth — a friend since orchestra at Coleytown Elementary School — and Dustin Lowman, another Staples grad on the fast musical track. Bernard has also played alongside Staples alum Drew Angus.

Jake Yarmoff loves Westport. Jake Bernard loves Philadelphia.

And both places love both Jakes right back.

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Dustin Lowman’s Ship Comes in

Posted on September 23, 2015 | 11 comments

In a world filled with young Westporters who dream of business school, summer i-bank internships and Wall Street careers, Dustin Lowman stands apart.

He’s a Middlebury College graduate — not unusual in this town — but he’s forged a distinctly different path. Dustin is a guitar-playing singer-songwriter, and he’s ready to make music his career.

If that sounds a bit Bob Dylan-esque, there’s a reason. Dustin has been a Dylan disciple since his mother borrowed CDs from the Westport Library. He evokes the early-’60s Dylan in his writing, playing and voice.

Dustin Lowman

Dustin Lowman

Still, Dustin Lowman is distinctly his own man. And a very talented and confident one too.

Much of that confidence stems from his upbringing here. It began with trumpet at Kings Highway Elementary School, then continued at Coleytown Middle, and band and orchestra at Staples.

Julia McNamee — his teacher for 7th grade workshop, 9th grade English Honors and 11th grade AP English — stressed creativity every day, from class discussions to essay topics. Dustin’s junior research paper was on Woodstock.

“Indulging the farthest corners of your mind” was crucial to him as a teenager, Dustin says.

Also important: Mike Zito and Jim Honeycutt’s Media Lab at Staples. They helped him record, and as a senior in 2011 let him and Noah Weingart make a full-length film.

“They gave us a lot of rope,” Dustin recalls. “We absolutely relished indulging our creative sides.”

The Dressing Room was another important influence. Dustin sang at that now-closed restaurant with older musicians like Michael Mugrage and Tor Newcomer.

He performed Dylan and Springsteen covers, and original numbers too.

The audience nurtured him. “I really felt they were saying, ‘Music is what you’re supposed to be doing,'” Dustin notes.

Dustin Lowman 'Folk Songs'He recorded his newest album — called, simply, “Folk Songs” — in his mother’s Westport home, as she prepared to move. That provided some of the poignancy an artist needs.

He designed the front cover from beach glass he collected with his mother at Compo Beach, over the course of his childhood. That too helped ground him, and his music.

All 9 songs are originals. All are compelling — particularly if you like Dylan, channeled through someone born decades after his folk-rock years.

The album dropped on Monday. It’s on Soundcloud, and other online outlets like Spotify (which Dylan definitely did not have, back in the day).

Dustin Lowman moves to Nashville next week. He hopes to make his mark on the music world.

It’s a different path from many of his Westport and Middlebury friends. Bob Dylan would be very proud.

(To hear Dustin Lowman’s “Folk Songs,” click here. “You can pay for it if you want,” he says. PS: You should!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, People, Staples HS

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