Tag Archives: Experience Camps

Roundup: Day of Champions, Night Of Attempted Break-In …

Posted on May 18, 2026 | 4 comments

For a town in which Democrats outnumber Republicans more than 2 to 1, the GOP here punches above its weight on a statewide basis.

Meeting this weekend at Mohegan Sun, Republicans nominated 2 Westporters for Connecticut office.

Former 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker is the choice for comptroller. Current Planning & Zoning Commissioner John Bolton got the nod for attorney general.

Both face uphill battles against incumbents Sean Scanlon and William Tong, respectively. In Connecticut, Democrats outnumber Republicans 792,800 to 490,000. (The largest group, however, is unaffiliated/other: 970,000.)

There was one other Westport connection at the GOP convention. In the governor’s contest, State Senator Ryan Fazio got 92% of the vote against fellow Greenwich resident Betsy McCaughey. She fell far short of the 15% needed to force a primary.

McCaughey is a Newsmax host, and former New York lieutenant governor. The 77-year-old grew up in Westport, and attended public schools here — including Staples High — through 10th grade.

The rest of the Republican underticket is not far from Westport, either. Peter Lumaj of Fairfield was nominated for secretary of the state, while Fred Wilms of Norwalk won the nod for treasurer.

In addition, the GOP endorsed Dr. Michael Goldstein of Greenwich to run against Congressman Jim Himes, in the 4th District that includes Westport. Dan Miressi of Wilton won enough votes to qualify for a primary.

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Every elementary school kid in town, it seemed, raced onto PJ Romano Field yesterday morning, for the 7th annual Day of Champions.

Their parents were there too. All were decked out in costumes — just one part of the offbeat, fun and very important competition.

In just a few years, the Day of Champions has become one of Westport’s favorite traditions.

Getting ready to compete …

The event raised over $275,000 for Experience Camps, the Westport-based network of activities for children who have lost parents or siblings. That’s a (great) record!

Before the zany games began, a 13-year-old Fairfield girl who lost her father spoke movingly about the friends she made at Experience Camps, the joy she found there, and the important role it plays in helping her deal with grief.

… wearing all kinds of costumes …

Josh Shapiro was honored as a “Red, White & Blue Champion,” for his role in securing a 6-figure grant for Experience Camps.

So who was the big winner, when all the games were over?

Experience Camps, for sure.

… and gathering for a group photo. (All photos/Dan Woog)

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If you need another reminder to always lock your home’s doors, this is it.

At 4:40 a.m. yesterday, a Ring video captured a shot of man attempting to open the door of a Whitney Street house.

First, he looks under bushes and the mat, to see if there is “hidden” key. Finding none, he tries the door.

It’s locked. He walks away.

Click here to see the video. Then go hide your keys in much less obvious places.

And, once again: Don’t forget to lock your doors.

Screenshot from Ring video. He drove a silver Prius, with no front license plate.

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A few tickets remain for tomorrow’s (Tuesday, 7 p.m.) evening of music with Audra McDonald, at the Westport Country Playhouse.

This is an encore performance for the Emmy, Grammy and 6-time Tony Award winner. The singer/actor — a National Medal of Arts recipient, and one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People — last appeared here in February of 2024.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Audra McDonald

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After months of meh (and much worse) weekend weather, this one was glorious.

With the temperature well into the 80s, with bountiful sunshine, Compo Beach was packed.

And though it was a Sunday — and work and school beckoned — folks lingered long into the evening.

(Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

Is this the start of 4 months of perfect weekends?

Hey … a boy can dream.

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As childhood friends, Westporter Allison Monson and Amanda Schwartz, a Westchester-based  have good vibes.

Which is why the pair — Allison, who moved here in 2020, and Amanda, a Westchester-based psychologist — have named their new venture Good Vibez.

Amanda has long dreamed of creating a positive, engaging space where girls can build lifelong wellness skills in a fun and supportive environment. Together,  Good Vibez Teen Wellness Retreats can make that vision a reality.

Designed for girls ages 11–15, they focus on helping teens build healthy habits, boost confidence, and learn practical tools to help them feel their best, while having fun.

Each retreat experience is led by a team of professionals, and includes activities like yoga, mindfulness and meditation practices, cooking lessons, creative and artistic projects, group discussions, and opportunities for reflection and connection.

Retreats are planned for Westport (August 18-20) and Bedford, New York (July 14-16). Click here for more information.

Allison Monson and Amanda Schwartz share Good Vibez.

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At Staples, Class of 1988 friends Peter Doolittle, Jem Sollinger, George Llorens and Will O’Toole won a Fairfield County wiffleball tournament.

The prize was one hour of air time on WWPT-FM — the high school station.

They formed a band. Hey, why not?!

After a few practices in classmate Steve Swann’s basement, G & the Bones were born.

Unsurprisingly, none went on to music careers. Scattered now throughout New England, they do things like run a restaurant, and a summer camp.

But on May 30 (8:30 p.m.), they’ll reunite at Little Pub @ Dunville’s.

The “Billy Bash” is a tribute to their friend and “band manager” Bill Westcott, who died in 2024.

The public is invited. It’s the reunion no one may have been waiting for — but it should be a great one.

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Lucky Brand went bankrupt in 2020. They closed their Main Street store then. (It became La Fenice. The gelato shop is also no longer in business.)

But Lucky Brand iscoming back. A sign on the vacant Express Edit space — next to Gap — promises it is “coming soon.” (The exact date, we hear, is June 19.)

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

Let’s hope the brand has more luck the second time.

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Internationally renowned pianist (and former longtime Westporter) Frederic Chiu and his niece, rising star violinist Karisa Chiu, transformed MoCA\CT’s galleries into into a compelling performance space on Saturday night.

Karisa recently debuted at Carnegie Hall. She paired beautifully with her uncle’s thoughtful, colorful interpretations.

They played selections from Fauré, Prokofiev and Bright Sheng, in an intimate, family way.

MoCA’s current exhibition, “Art, Jazz + The Blues,” runs through June 7.

Karisa Chiu and Frederic Chiu, at MoCA\CT. (Photo/Roger Young)

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Veronica Roda — the wife of longtime Westport Parks & Recreation official Carmen Roda — died peacefully, surrounded by her family, on May 13. She was 59 years old.  on May (59) of Norwalk peacefully entered into Heaven on May 13, 2026, surrounded by her beloved family.

The Queens native moved at 9 to Norwalk, where she lived the rest of her life. Veronica studied dance from age 2 to 18, specializing in tap, jazz and ballet. She was a gymnast at her alma mater, Norwalk High School.

Her family says, “Veronica’s greatest joy was being a mom and raising her  children, Samantha and Matthew. She adored and loved them deeply.”

She met Carmen in 2011. For the next decade they built a fast-paced, joy-filled life of travel and memories — from California and Aruba to live shows like “Dancing with the Stars.”

Veronica began working as an executive recruiter. She then built a successful career in the cosmetics and beauty industry with Lancôme, Origins, Estée Lauder and L’Oréal Fragrances.

A career highlight was launching Origins at Bergdorf Goodman in New York in 1990, and meeting Estée Lauder.

She later worked as an account executive for Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Bloomingdale’s. In 2013 she transitioned to wellness, serving as manager at several Kaia Yoga studios in Fairfield County.

Veronica is survived by her husband Carmen Roda, daughter Samantha Schwartz, son Matthew Schwartz, brother Victor Casazza, and father John Lindquest.

A memorial service will be held at the First Congregational Church on the Green, Norwalk on Wednesday (May 20, 2 p.m.).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Veronica and Carm Roda

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We start the week off with a gorgeous “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Candice Cardenas spotted these beauties on Old Road.

(Photo/Candice Cardenas)

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And finally … in honor of Allison and Amanda’s GoodVibez (story above):

(Want more good vibrations? Just click here, to support your hyper-local blog. PS: You’ll get excitations too. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, Local business, Obituaries, Politics, Westport Country Playhouse

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Day Of Champions: Westport Honors 3 Of Its Own

Posted on May 16, 2026 | 3 comments

Tomorrow (Sunday), over 400 Westporters will gather at Saugatuck Elementary School. Decked out in wacky costumes, and filled with energy, they’re there for the 7th annual Day of Champions. 

The color-wars-style family fundraiser benefits Experience Camps for Grieving Children. The nonprofit provides free summer camp to children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver.

All 20 teams there show up for someone. All honor someone. 

Showing up, having fun, at the Day of Champions. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Here are 3 stories, of Westporters lost just in the psat year.

Team Lucky Stars: Honoring Alyson Luck

Alyson Luck was a joyful, kind, smart, loving mom and wife. To many, she was a confidante, fierce friend and inspiration.

Growing up in Westport she studied art history, earned a graduate degree from Bank Street, and spent over a decade working at New York’s Jewish Museum and Guggenheim.

She came back home, back to the little cape house she grew up in and called her dream.

She became the director of the One River School of Art & Design on the Post Road. It’s a place where people of all ages could make art without pretense, surrounded by community.

Alyson Luck and family.

Alyson was the life of the party and lit up any room she was in. You always knew she was around when you heard her amazing laughter. She loved her family, her kids, her friends, her work and her town. 

I called her the Mayor of Westport, because she knew everyone, and everyone knew her. Anyone who knew her would tell you the same thing: She made them feel happy.  She’d be so proud we are making it possible for other kids to attend Experience Camps. – Michael, Alyson’s husband.

Alyson died last June at home, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 43.

The Day of Champions team formed in her name is made up of the friends and family who loved her, showing up now in the way that matters most.

Alyson and Michael’s two children will attend Experience Camps this summer. It’s a place designed for exactly this kind of loss, where kids who carry grief get to just be kids for a while. The team fundraising in Alyson’s honor is making that possible for them, and so many others like them.

North Star Team: Honoring Nat Brogadir and Slava Leykind

Nat Brogadir was a wonderful husband, dad, brother, son and friend, who filled every room with energy and warmth. He will forever be remembered with a smile on his face, and a beanie on his head.

Beyond his accomplished professional life, he was deeply rooted in his Jewish identity and his community. Friends and family know him as someone who never shied away from standing up for what he believed in, even as he faced a battle with kidney cancer.

Nat was just 40 years old when he died. He was devoted to his wife Jenny, whom he met at sleepaway camp when they were both 12 years old, and an adoring father to his daughters, Hadley and Kira, the lights of his life.

Nat Brogadir and family.

Nat coached their soccer teams, skied alongside them, and sat proudly in the audience at every dance recital. Friends called him “Camp Nat” because he always led groups of kids and adults in fun activities in the backyard. Day of Champions was one of his favorite events each year. 

Nat loved the people in his life fiercely. He had a rare gift for forming deep connections with everyone he met, because of his genuine warmth. As a result, after Nat died his community did not look away.

They showed up. A grassroots campaign — the Beanie Project — was launched in his memory. 1,500 beanies were sold to honor his spirit, give back to a cause important to him, and connect those who were missing him.

We feel Nat’s absence every moment of every day, and the hole left in our family can never truly be filled. But the incredible love and support from our community has carried us through the hardest days and reminded us that we are surrounded by people who continue to honor Nat’s spirit with kindness, laughter, and connection. — Jenny, Nat’s wife 

The Day of Champions team honoring Nat is filled with friends who have become family — “framily,” as they like to say. They will show up in red and navy for his favorite football team, the New England Patriots.

Honoring Slava Leykind

Slava Leykind appreciated life fully, and lived it with remarkable grace. To his wife and 3 kids, “superhuman father” is an understatement.

Born in Minsk in 1982, Slava emigrated to Minneapolis with his family as a child. He attended the University of Michigan Ross School of Business and built a career in investment banking, becoming co-head of US consumer investment banking at Canaccord Genuity.

While his family and friends were impressed by his professional accomplishments, what they loved most was his calm demeanor, quick wit, devotion, and the way he showed up for the people in his life.

Slava died in July 2025 at 43, following a Mount Everest-themed endurance event in Jackson Hole. 

At his funeral, his oldest daughter Charlotte sang. His friends recalled his playful energy, and the depth of his loyalty. His wife and soulmate for 2 decades, Amy, told stories of his devotion to their children: how he brought love and a sense of calm to the wonderful chaos of a full house.

A close friend put it simply: Relationships aren’t measured in years, but in depth. By that measure, Slava Leykind left a very large life behind.

Slava was and always will be the North Star to our family. Given the central place family held in his heart, he would be especially moved to know that we are helping children whose families have experienced profound loss attend Experience Camps. — Amy, Slava’s wife  

The team honoring Slava at the Day of Champions carries that spirit forward, showing up the way he always did: wholeheartedly for the people they love.

What Showing Up Looks Like

Grief has a way of making people feel invisible. The casseroles stop coming. The phone calls taper off. People don’t know what to say, so they say nothing. They mean to reach out, and they don’t.

The friends and families behind all of the Day of Champions teams chose differently. They chose to stay close, to keep saying the names. Saying someone’s name out loud is one of the most powerful things you can do for the people who loved them.

It is how we keep them present. It is how we make clear that just because someone is gone does not mean they are forgotten. They are remembered. They are celebrated. They live on in the people who carry them forward.

Showing up, at the Day of Champions.

Tomorrow, those friends will show up in t-shirts on a field in Westport. They will run relay races and cheer, because that is how you tell someone: We have not forgotten. You are not alone. Your children matter to us.

That is what Experience Camps is built on, too. Founded on the belief that grieving children deserve joy and connection and the chance to be understood, the organization now runs camps across the country. There is one in Kent, Connecticut, opened in part because of fundraising done here in Westport.

How You Can Be Part of It

Tell us about the person who died in your life: Share their name and a favorite memory about them in the comments section.

Spread the word: Childhood grief is more common than many realize. In the United States, 1 in 11 children will lose a parent or sibling before the age of 18. If you know a family that could benefit from Experience Camps, share their website and social media with them.

Donate: The Day of Champions goal is to raise $175,000 for Experience Camps. All 20 teams have fundraising pages, to learn more about who and what they’re honoring. Click here to make a donation that can make life-changing support possible for kids right here in our community.

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Posted in Children, Westport life

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Roundup: James Comey, Lynsey Addario, Staples Kids …

Posted on May 19, 2025 | 23 comments

James Comey is in the news again — a lot.

The former Westport resident and FBI director is being investigated by the Secret Service. His new book, “FDR Drive” — a legal thriller and exploration of political extremism — will be published tomorrow.

Meanwhile, 2 other Westporters — TV journalists Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs — taped a fascinating interview with him, for their “Sanity” podcast.

They talked about Comey’s viral “86-47 post,” the Trump administration, right wing outrage, extremism, the FBI, the Supreme Court, the 2016 election, and much more. 

Including Westport.

Comey reveals what he’d say to Hillary Clinton, if they bumped into each other at Viva Zapata (one of his favorite restaurants). And he adds that his next book will include a scene there.

Listen to the “Sanity” podcast with James Comey here.

Screenshot from the “Sanity” podcast (from left): Dave Briggs, Alisyn Camerota, James Comey.

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As the world focuses on Gaza and Ukraine, another humanitarian crisis continues — with much less attention — in Sudan and Chad.

New York Times Pulitzer Prize, MacArthur “genius grant” recipient (and 1991 Staples High School graduate) Lynsey Addario is making sure it’s not completely forgotten.

Her photo essay in The Atlantic — “The Crisis of American Leadership Reaches an Empty Desert” — shines a heart-wrenching light on this other humanitarian disaster.

Lynsey’s photos and text are available here (paywall). (Hat tip: Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

Sudanese refugees in the hot sun near a United Nations truck. (Photo copyright Lynsey Addario for The Atlantic)

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The Westport Library Spring Book Sale would not be possible without the help of dozens of volunteers.

Among them on Saturday: 2 Jenns (below):

(Photo/John Karrel)

The Book Sale continues today (Monday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; fill the Library logo bag for $10, or your own equivalent bag for $8; individual books half price).

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Westport PAL awarded 8 college scholarships last week, to Staples seniors who will graduate next month.

Honorees included Chloe Barnes, Katie Fitzgerald, Aiden Goldenberg, Rachel Pontoriero, Lily Rimm, Eva Sladek, Edward Van der Merwe and Olivia Zhou.

All proceeds from PAL’s golf event go to the scholarship fund. The 63rd Chief Samuel Luciano Golf Tournament is set for September 8, at Longshore.

The shotgun start is followed by cocktails, dinner, raffles and prizes. Registration and more information is available here.

Westport PAL president Craig Bergamo (far left), with scholarship honorees.

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More awards: On Friday, the Sunrise Rotary Club gave Paul Harris Awards — one of the highest honors the international service organization can give — to 16 people.

Recipients included Charlie Adams, Daniel Ambruso, Brien Cartagena, Sister Maureen Fleming, William R. Harris Jr., Jay B. Paretzky, Vincent Penna Sr., Anna Rycenga, Frankie Smith, Anne Lowrie, Ines SaCouto Curwen, Tomas SaCouto Curwen, Susan Hawley, Jonathan Hendrickson, Matthew Hendrickson and Robert Rubenstein.

 

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Meanwhile, both Sunrise Rotary and the Westport Rotary Club participated in Saturday’s international Epic Day of Service.

Among the projects: Sunrise Rotarians helped out at the Open Doors shelter in Norwalk. “What a great feeling to give back,” says volunteer Alma Sarelli.

Volunteers at Norwalk’s Open Doors shelter.

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Yesterday’s “Day of Champions” raised $175,000 for Westport-based Experience Camps — the non-profit that runs summer camps and year-round programs for children and teens grieving the loss of a parent, sibling or caregiver.

“06880” ran a few photos yesterday. Here are some great bonus shots:

(All photos/Kerry Long)

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There’s plenty of great fresh produce at the Westport Farmer’s Market.

And plenty that if not sold, would be wasted.

Food Rescue rescues food. They work with restaurants, supermarkets and grocery stores, to pick up unused, perishable meat, fruit, vegetables and more, and deliver it to food pantries and homeless shelters.

Every week, Farmers’ Market vendors donate food that is still fresh, delicious and healthy but unsold. It would go to compost or into the waste stream — but instead it is distributed it neighbors in need, including the Gillespie Center (around the corner from the WFM), and Fridegeport in Bridgeport.

The program is funded through donations and grants.  The Westport Farmers Market continues every Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot), through November.

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More than 3 years ago, “06880” profiled Matt Yemma.

The 2002 Staples High School graduate had just started his own crypto PR firm.

He’s now launched Endeavor Communications. The agency provides media guidance to clients in financial and professional services, fintech, real estate, advertising, adtech, and climate services.

Already they’ve held Qualitative Brokers, a fintech firm that creates algorithms for advanced execution trading, leading to Deutsche Borse scquiring a majority stake. And 427, a tech company that analyzes and predicts climate risk for governments and private businesses, which led to an acquisition by Moody’s.

Matt Yemma

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Longtime Westport resident Esther Brodie died peacefully in her home of 71 years on Thursday. She was 98.

She and her husband Richard built their Burr Farms Road home largely by hand, in 1954 and ’55.

A Bronx native, her parents were recent immigrants. Born during Purim, she was named for the holiday’s heroine queen.

After graduating from Hunter College, where she competed on the diving team, she taught physical education at Taft High School in the Bronx. She met her future husband at Camp Berkshire.

Their son Scott was in the first kindergarten class at Burr Farms Elementary, a few yards from their home. In 1962 Esther returned to teaching phys. ed., in New Canaan. She earned a master’s degree and 6th-year certificate in counseling. She taught for 3 decades, including some children of former students.

Esther served as president of the local chapter of Hadassah, and was active in the Temple Israel sisterhood. Her avocations included modern dance, tennis and meditation. She attended concerts in the area, and enjoyed Broadway shows.

For over 3 decades, Esther was a senior staff member at Camp Berkshire. When it closed in the 1980s, she and Richard built a vacation home on the lake. They spent every summer and frequent Thanksgivings there.

After retiring Esther studied piano, participated in a labyrinth project for women in prison, and volunteered for the census. She joined the Y’s Women investment club, and greeted new residents to her road with welcome gifts.

Esther is survived by her sons Scott (Susan) and Bruce Marie), grandchildren Joshua, Emma, Melissa, Clara and Ben, and their respective spouses and companions Hilary, Kevin, David, Mariah and Claudia.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent to the Hunter College Foundation.

Esther Brodie

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It’s been a crazy month. There’s a lot coming up.

But the star of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature has not a care in the world.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

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And finally … in honor of yesterday’s Experience Camp “Day of Champions” (story above):

(Be a champ! Support “06880”! Please click here! Thank you!)

 

 

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Posted in Environment, Library, Media, Obituaries, Politics

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Dog Day Experience

Posted on May 18, 2025 | Comments Off on Dog Day Experience

Hundreds of dogs are bringing their owners to Winslow Park today.

Westport’s 9th annual Dog Festival features games, an obstacle course, a police K-9 demonstration, pet-related vendors, food trucks — and all the pawing, sniffing and more you’d expect at a field filled with poodles, greyhounds, and every breed in between.

The event — sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — runs through 4 p.m. today (Sunday).

Westport has 3 K-9 dogs. They search for illegal drugs, track suspects, look for missing people, and do much more. Their handlers demonstrat their talents, discuss their training, and answer questions about the K-9 division.

Chasing a very elusive ball.

TAILS (The Alliance in Limiting Strays) is an all-volunteer, non-profit Westport-based organization. They’re one of the many vendors at today’s Dog Festival.

(All photos/Dan Woog)

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A couple of hours earlier, 500 kids, parents and volunteers thronged PJ Romano Field, for the 7th annual “Day of Champions.”

The fundraiser for Experience Camps — the Westport-based non-profit that provides summer camps and year-round programs for youngsters grieving the loss of a parent, sibling or caregiver — was just a few dollars short of its $175,000 goal when the event began.

“Day of Champions” included fun competitions, crazy costumes, and community support.

There were 20 teams. And every one was a winner.

This team is ready for the competition …

… and so is this one.

The opening ceremony included a dinosaur.

Sara Deren, a Westporter and CEO of Experience Camps, with Zoe. The Norwalk girl — who turned 15 last week — spoke eloquently about the impact of the camps on her life. She has gone each summer since 2018, when her father died following an asthma attack. (All photos/Dan Woog)

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Posted in Children, Environment

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Roundup: Brian Lewis & James Beard, Blondinit & Passover …

Posted on April 3, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Brian Lewis & James Beard, Blondinit & Passover …

Westporters know how talented Brian Lewis is.

Now the James Beard Foundation does too.

The Cottage‘s chef/owner was named yesterday as one of 5 nominees for Best Chef, in the New England region. The others are from Providence (2), Cambridge and Burlington, Vermont.

The winner will be announced on June 16, at a ceremony in Chicago. The Awards will be broadcast live on Eater. Click here for more James Beard information.

Chef Brian Lewis

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Speaking of restaurants: The Blondinit is (“06880” thinks) the only one in Westport offering a kosher menu for Passover.

Available for catering and in-house dining, and made with true Israeli flavors and 100% kosher ingredients, the half and full trays include appetizers (deviled eggs, smoke salmon, fried matzah, flourless potato latkes and matzah ball soup); dips; salads; entrees (baked chicken, mafrum, stuffed peppers, matzah-crusted sea bass and grilled salmon); sides, and desserts.

The catering order deadline is Monday (April 7).

Every dish is served with matzah, Israeli pickles and schug. Available in half or full trays for gatherings big or small.

Click here to order (use the “Passover” tab under “Order Online”), or call 203-557-3277.

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If it’s April, it must be time for the Minute Man Race.

One of Westport’s most popular traditions, the event — actually, a 10K run, 5K run, 5K walk and kids’ fun run, plus a Kids’ Zone with games and entertainment — returns Sunday, April 27 (Compo Beach).

All net proceeds benefit the Westport Young Woman’s League Grants program. Last year, they awarded $65,000 to 9 non-profits doing vital work across Fairfield County.

Now is the time to register.

And to sponsor and donate. All are welcome!

Click here for more information, and to register, donate and sponsor.

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Another great Westport tradition — the Day of Champions — is coming soon too. Mark your calendars: Sunday, May 18 (9 to 11:30 a.m., PJ Romano Field).

It’s Experience Camps’ morning of family competition and fun — and a major fundraiser for their efforts to provide free programs for children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver.

Everyone who has participated (and that’s almost everyone in Westport with an elementary school-age kid) knows it’s a great event.

They also know how much work it takes.

Volunteer sign-ups have begun. There are tons of tasks. Click here to help. Click here to learn more about Experience Camps.

The “En Fuego team”: on fire at the Day of Champions. (Photo/Amy Shapiro)

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This is also the time of year to clean out basements and garages.

CB Sportif and Northeast Community Cycles are collecting “pre-loved” bikes.

They’ll be refurbished, then given free to children and adults throughout Fairfield County who need — but cannot afford — themm.

Bicycles can be dropped off tomorrow (Friday, April 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and Saturday (April 5, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) at CB Sportif (1554 Post Road East). Tax receipts are available.

Questions? Call 203-586-3030.

New life for old bikes.

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Barbra Streisand celebrates her birthday at the Westport Country Playhouse.

Well — April 24 is her birthday. She’ll be represented there in “Me, Myself, and Barbra,” a tribute by Jenna Pastuszek.

She was inspired by a meeting with the singing star, who inspired her to embrace her inner Barbra.

The show is April 24 — Streisand’s birthday. Tickets for the 7 p.m. show are $45 and $40; pre-show party and show tickets are $55 and $50. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Totney Benson reports: “Boats are retuning to the Ned Dimes Marina. There was one yesterday, almost 20 this morning!”

That’s quite an increase. At that exponential rate, the Compo Beach basin will be filled tomorrow.

(Photo/Totney Benson)

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Westport Police made no custodial arrests between March 26 and April 2.

They issued these citations:

  • Failure to renew registration: 15 citations
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 15
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 12
  • Driving while texting: 10
  • Reckless driving: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 3
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Disorderly conduct: 2
  • Breach of peace: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Unreadable plates: 2
  • Interfering with an emergency call: 1
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to renew license: 1
  • Failure to display plates: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1.

Texting while driving is illegal — even at a red light.

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For the last couple of weeks, we’ve introduced our “Westport … Naturally” feature by saying, “In a couple of weeks, this scene will look very different.”

Come on, spring! What are you waiting for?

Compo Beach (Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … in honor of the bicycle collection this weekend at CB Sportif:

(From restaurants and road races to volunteer opportunities, “06880” offers it all to you today. We do it every day too — 24/7/365. Of course, we rely on reader support. Please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Local business, Police, Restaurants, Westport Country Playhouse

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Amanda Kloots’ Heart-Warming Chili Experience

Posted on March 1, 2025 | 4 comments

A few weeks ago, Westporter Kristen Glosserman spotted an Instagram post that warmed her heart.

It was from Amanda Kloots, the noted actress, dancer, fitness entrepreneur and TV personality.

Her journey through grief has resonated with many. She lost her husband, Broadway actor Nick Cordero, to COVID in 2020, when their son was 1 year old.

But her post that day wasn’t just about grief. She wrote about chili — and about showing up for the people you love.

Kristen and her husband, Marc Glosserman, own Hill Country BBQ in New York City and Washington. They know a thing or two about slow-cooked meat.

Kristen and Marc Glosserman, at Hill Country.

Kristen also knows a thing or two about grief. When she was 13, her brother died in a ski accident.

Kristen messaged Amanda on Instagram. She then contacted fellow Westporter Sara Deren.

Sara and her husband Jon founded Experience Camps. Headquartered right here in town, the organization runs summer camps for children grieving the death of a parent or sibling.

Experience Camps has grown from 1 site and 27 youngsters in 2009, to a network of 7 camps nationwide. Each summer, hundreds of volunteers serve nearly 1,000 boys and girls ages 8 to 18.

Experience Camps also runs Grief Sucks, a digital platform for grieving teens, and Grief Quest, a  virtual scavenger hunt that teaches kids how to support grieving people.

The timing was perfect. National Chili Day was coming soon: Thursday, February 27.

Two days ago, Amanda Kloots served bowls of chili at Hill Country BBQ on West 26th Street. She drew a large crowd.

And the restaurant is donating every dollar from those sales to Experience Camps.

How’s that for a heart-warming tale?!

After Amanda Kloots served chili at Hill Country …

… she posed with (from left) Kristen Glosserman and Sara Deren. (Photo/Jonathan Terrio)

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Posted in Children, Restaurants, Teenagers

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Roundup: Polar Plunge, Pizza, Post-Ruth Mannes …

Posted on January 2, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Polar Plunge, Pizza, Post-Ruth Mannes …

Usually, the New Year’s Day Polar Plunge experience involves wading quickly into — and even more quickly out of — Long Island Sound.

This year’s experience was better — as in, warmer. At least, the air was not frigid yesterday.

There were 3 Polar Plunges yesterday, at Compo Beach. All were special experiences — especially the one that raised funds for Experience Camps.

That’s the Westport-based national, no-cost program for grieving children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver. The Polar Plunge celebrated the opening of their newest location, set for KenMont and KenWood Camp in Kent, Connecticut this August.

Missed the Plunge (by mistake, or on purpose)? You can still donate. Just click here.

Click here for Dave Briggs’ video.

 

(Photo/Dave Briggs)

A bit later, this was the scene at the Polar Plunge to benefit Abilis:

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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Forget s’mores and hot cocoa. Winter is really pizza time.

All winter long, Tony Pizza Napolitano continues making his wood-fired, Neopolitan/Brooklyn-style pies at Wakeman Town Farm.

Every Monday, he posts his weekly menu on his Facebook page (TonyPizzaNapolitano and confirms) whether he will be at the Farm (usually Tuesday).

Then: Pick it up. And enjoy!

Tony Pizza Napolitano, at Wakeman Town Farm’s wood-fired oven.

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There is always something new at MoCA CT.

Soon, there will be a new executive dirctor.

After 5 years at the Newtown Turnpike institution, Ruth Mannes has stepped down.

MoCA CT is searching for a new executive director.

Durng her tenure, 100,000 visitors have enjoyed 26 exhibitions by artists like Helmet Lang, Anselm Reyle, and Ann Weiner, plus 60 musical performances by Wynton Marsalis, Samara Joy, the Danish String Quartet and others.

MoCA has become the home of the Heida Hermanns International Music Competition, while Camp MoCA and other programs have served 4,000 learners of all ages.

A search committee has begun the process of appointing Mannes’ successor. Questions, nominations and resumes can be sent to careers@mocact.org.

Ruth Mannes (Photo/Kerry Long)

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Last night marked the final day of Hanukkah. There were plenty of happy faces at Steve and Linda Stein’s house — including this one:

(Photo/Linda and Steve Stein)

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Before the New Year’s Eve thunder, there was this bank of clouds over Saugatuck Shores.

A final sendoff to a stormy 2024? An omen of the year to come?

Or just a mesmerizing photo for “Westport … Naturally”?

You decide.

(Photo/Lou Rolla)

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And finally … Roger Miller was born on this date in 1936. The country music singer/songwriter died in 1992, at 56, from lung and throat cancer.

(Did we mention it’s a new year? And that means you can make a 2025 contribution to support “06880”? Just click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: J. Crew, Twilight Zone, New Year’s Day …

Posted on December 30, 2024 | 7 comments

J. Crew is moving.

But not far.

The new location will be 27 Main Street — the former Pottery Barn.

The current location is 145 Main Street. That’s 2 doors down from the now-shuttered 159 Main (previously Rye Ridge Deli; before that, Oscar’s).

The new J. Crew store. (Hat tip and photo/Sal Liccione)

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Speaking of the holiday: If it’s New Year’s, it must be SyFy’s annual “Twilight Zone” marathon.

The annual event — an homage to the show and its creator, former Westporter Rod Serling — begins at 1 a.m. tomorrow (Tuesday). It runs through 3:30 a.m. Thursday.

Click here for the full schedule. Looking for “A Stop at Willoughby” — the episode that includes a commuter heading to Westport, who never quite makes it?

It airs at 11:40 p.m. on Wednesday, January 1.

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Experience Camps — the Westport-based national, no-cost program for grieving children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver — hosts a New Year’s Day Polar Plunge (January 1, 10 a.m., Compo Beach).

The event ceelbrates the opening of their newest location. It will be at KenMont and KenWood Camp in Kent, Connecticut (August 18-23).

The weather should be much warmer then.

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Friends of Sherwood Island welcome New Year’s with a beach walk.

Everyone — “official” Friends members and not; children, and dogs on short leashes — is invited to meet in front of the Nature Center at 11 a.m. on Wednesday (January 1). Follow signs to East Beach.

Start the new year at Sherwood Island State Park. (Photo/Susan Leone)

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Hungry to learn more about where your food comes from?

The Westport Farmers’ Market co-hosts the Fairfield County premiere of “Food & Country” — Ruth Reichl’s award-winning documentary about our food supply — next Sunday (January 5, 4:30 p.m., FTC Warehouse).

An extra course: Reichl (former New York Times food critic, and editor of Gourmet magazine) will be at the screening. After, she’ll join 2 other culinary icons to talk about the fim, and answer questions from the audience.

Panelists include Michel Nischan and Ed Levine.

Nischan is a 4-time James Beard Award-winning chef, who has spent over 40 years advocating for a more healthful, sustainable food system. He worked with Paul Newman to help low-income families access fresh fruits and vegetables (now a permanent part of the federal farm bill). Nischan and Newman also co-founded The Dressing Room, the popular restaurant next to the Westport Country Playhouse.

Levine is the host and creator of the “Special Sauce” podcast, and a 3-time James Beard Award winner.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Paul Newman, flanked by Westport Farmers’ Market director Lori Cochran-Dougall and Michel Nischan, proudly sported WFM gear.

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Yesterday’s New York Times Styles section included a story on “Knitting with Dog Hair.”

The popular “lighthearted yet serious instructional book on the quirky craft that shows how to collect dog fuzz and spin, dye and knit with the yarn known as chiengora” has just been reissued in a revised 30th anniversary edition.

What makes this “06880”-worthy is that author Kendall Crolius — now 70 years old — grew up in Westport.

Linda Smith calls her “the favorite child I babysat for 66 years ago.” The Croliuses lived on Cavalry Road, and Linda says that 4-year-old Kendall explained to her the difference between Cavalry and Calvary.”

Click here for the full Times story.

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Earthplace’s winter after-school programs for children and teenagers begin next month.

They include:

  • Eco-Explorers (grades 3-5; 4 to 5 p.m.)
  • Nature Art Club (grades 3-6; 4 to 5 p.m.)
  • Teen Volunteer Club
  • Harbor Watch Student Programs.

Click here for more information.

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There’s no such thing as a free lunch.

But free s’mores — compliments of Nômade — were on the menu yesterday, outside the Main Street restaurant in front of Savvy + Grace.

The marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate have been one of the most popular items the last 2 years, at the “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

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Yesterday’s fog elicited several “Westport … Naturally” photos.

Andrew Fishman captured this scene on Larch Tree Lane, off Cavalry Road.

(Photo/Andrew Fishman)

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And finally … today is the birthday of not 1, but 2 Monkees.

Michael Nesmith was born on this date in 1942. He died in 2021.

Davy Jones was born 3 years later. He died in 2012.

(Cheer up, sleepy Jean! There’s still time to make a 2024 donation to “06880.” Just click here. And thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Environment, Local business, Restaurants

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The Yankees May Not Win The World Series. But Last Night, They Proved They Are World Champs.

Posted on October 30, 2024 | 10 comments

Some people love the New York Yankees. Some hate them.

This story will make even the most rabid Boston Red Sox fan say: “Go Yanks!”

Last Friday, Sara Deren — founder and CEO of Experience Camps, the Westport-based program for youngsters who have lost parents or siblings — got an email from a Fairfield mom.

Her son Declan has spent 4 years at Experience Camps. She wanted to know if anyone, anywhere could give Declan a chance to go to the World Series.

The mom wrote:

Declan and his dad Matt never missed a Yankee game. The Yankees were a humungous part of Declan’s life with Matt. They watched all the games and did everything Yankee together.

When Matt’s life was tragically cut short, Declan found life unbearable. At 9 years old, his grief was so deep it was as if his heart was ripped out of his chest. 

The Yankees’ making it to the World Series has been unexpectedly healing for Declan. I can’t quite explain it. I never realized the tremendous role the Yankees play in Declan’s grief.

Sara contacted some people at the Yankees. She met them in June, when the Yankees honored Experience Camps.

The next day, Declan and his older brother had tickets to Game 4.

Sara went to Declan’s house on Sunday. Pretending to interview him for social about his dad and the Yankees, she surprised him by telling him he was going to the World Series. (Click here for the video.)

Declan discusses his dad, for social media.

On Tuesday, the 14-year-old was at Yankee Stadium. He wore a photo of his dad around his neck — and a smile as wide as the outfield fence (even before the team won).

Declan, with his dad …

What could be better?

Well, he caught a ball during batting practice!

Declan, with his batting practice ball.

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Posted in Sports, Teenagers

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Roundup: Bus Shelters, RTM Map, Marxism In Connecticut …

Posted on September 4, 2024 | 8 comments

For years, Westporters have been distressed watching Coastal Link bus riders standing on the side of the Post Road.

Employees of local businesses are there in broiling heat, freezing cold, torrential rain and driving snow.

Two new shelters should provide some protection.

Measuring 6 by 12 feet, with roof solar panels for light, electric heat and a small computer screen displaying bus arrival times, they’ve been built on Post Road West.

One is in front of Schulhof Animal Hospital. The other is across the street.

Each shelter costs $60,000. Funding is shared by the state and town (through an ARPA grant).

On the westbound side of Post Road West …

… and across the street. (Photos/Amy Schneider)

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At the other end of town, Big Y took a big step toward its opening.

The logo is up over the supermarket, in the former Barnes & Noble building.

(Photo/Arthur Hayes)

A soft launch is set for October 24.

Meanwhile, they’re hiring in the bakery, meat, seafood, deli, produce and floral departments, along with cashiers, overnight stock clerks, and assistant management and management positions.

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Sometimes the wheels of government grind exceedingly slowly.

Other times they work at warp speed.

On Sunday, a Westporter — frustrated he could not find a map of Representative Town Meeting districts on the town website — emailed RTM moderate Jeff Wieser and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

Couldn’t it be somewhere much more visible, he wondered? Like, in the main menu on the RTM page?

Voilà!

By yesterday afternoon — the first day back at work, after Sunday and the Labor Day holiday — the link was right there, just below “Members/Contact Information.”

Click here to see. Or just look below:

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Speaking of government: “A Public Conversation on Marxism in CT, Trafficking in America, Rank Choice Voting, and Election Integrity” is the title of a September 18 event (7 p.m., VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.

The event is sponsored by Connecticut Centinal.

Panelists include Lt. Gen. Rod Bishop, USAF Ret., chairman of STARRS.us; Joe Oltmann, host of the Conservative Daily podcast; Connecticut State Senator Rob Sampson, and Linda Szynkowicz, founder of Fight Voter Fraud.

In-person tickets are $30 ($100 premier). Livestream tickets are $25. A percentage of the proceeds will be donated to VFW Post 399 to fund infrastructure development.

Click here for tickets, and more information. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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The bad news: Next Tuesday (September 10), the Starbucks near Carvel closes for a month, for renovations.

The good news: For 4 weeks, we can all drive safely on that stretch of the Post Road.

(Photo/John McKinney)

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On August 18, “Paulie” set out on his fourth “Push.”

The former flight attendant is honoring the heroes of American Flight 11, the first aircraft hijacked on September 11, 2001.

Paulie left from Boston’s Public Garden 9/11 Memorial. He’s pushing an airline beverage cart 210 miles, to the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum at New York’s Ground Zero.

This morning (Wednesday), he’ll come from Fairfield through Westport. Around noon, he’ll stop at Westport Fire Department’s Post Road East headquarters.

Keep your eye open for Paulie, as he “pushes” his way through town.

“Paulie” pushes his cart through Westport, on a previous journey.

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If you’ve never been to an Artists Collective of Westport pop-up exhibition: You’ve missed some of the most creative shows in town.

The opening receptions are especially fun.

The next one is set for Thursday, September 19 (6 to 8 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse barn).

It runs Friday and Saturday, September 20-21 (noon to 4 p.m.), with an artists’ talk on Sunday, September 22 (4 p.m.).

Exhibiting artists include Peter Mendelson, Lisa Silberman, Lois Goglia, Rosalind Shaffer, Melissa Newman, Lucienne Buckner, Erin Nazzaro, Elizabeth DeVoll, Andrew Graham, Nancy Woodward, Miggs Burroughs and Susan Lloyd.

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Sara Deren — yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club lunch speaker — has a unique job, and a moving story to tell.

She is founder and CEO of the Westport-based national non-profit, Experience Camps. They provide a free week of sleepaway camp for 1,300 children a year who are grieving the loss of a parent, sibling or caregiver.

Deren noted that the camps don’t try to “fix” the grief. Instead, they ameliorate the sense of isolation it causes, by teaching youngsters how to talk to the staff and with other youth in the same situation.

That, and the support of others, gives them the tools they need to move on with their lives in a positive way.

Sara Deren, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Norwalk native Mike Camacho headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (September 5, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $20 music cover, $15 for veterans and students).

The drummer will be joined by pianist Ben Rice, bassist Alec Safy, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.

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Nature photographer Lou Weinberg took today’s very compelling “Westport … Naturally” image. It shows a green sweat bee on Autumn Joy Sedum, at the Westport Community Gardens.

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

Lou explains: “The green sweat bee gets its name from the fact that is attracted to the salt in human perspiration. (Don’t worry — it won’t sting unless it is really threatened; even then, its sting is mild.)

“These beautiful critters live in the soil and feed on the nectar from flowers and a sweet ‘honeydew’ created by little bugs called aphids. They store ‘pollen bread’ for themselves and their young.

“Green sweat bees add to the incredible biodiversity found in the Long Lots Preserve surrounding the Community Gardens. They are one of over 300 species of native bees found in Connecticut. Native bees are incredible pollinators, more efficient than the European honeybee.

“They have innate habits adept at pollinating hundreds of important native plants — the same plants (trees, shrubs and wildflowers) that have been planted in the Long Lots Preserve.

“As habitat loss and decreasing plant biodiversity are the primary sources of native bee population decline, it would be incredibly disappointing to destroy the Long Lots Preserve as well as the Westport Community Gardens.

“Populations of dozens of other species are being brought back by the native plantings reestablished there. When you disturb the soil, you destroy the bees.”

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And finally … in honor of our new bus shelters:

(Politics, art, business … just another day at “06880.” If you enjoy our daily Roundups — or anything else we do — please click here, to make a tax-deductible donation. Thank you!)

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