Tag Archives: Frank Murgalo

Roundup: Dogs, Chickens, Penguins …

Posted on March 25, 2026 | 5 comments

It’s no joke: April 1 is the date dogs are banned from Compo Beach.

Tomorrow — when the thermometer hits 65 — looks like the best day before next Wednesday for Fido’s final romp.

Until October 1.

Hey — that’s only 189 days away!

Enjoy it while you can! (Photo/Nancy Lally)

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What’s going down at the farm?

It’s better to ask: What isn’t?!

Wakeman Town Farm welcomes spring, with a host of activities for all ages. They include:

  • Maple Syrup Boil (this Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; free)
  • Farm classes, for all age students
  • Inclusive neurodiverse farmers’ program
  • Kids’ cooking classes (special session for homeschooling)
  • Summer camp
  • Adult workshops: tulips, cooking, chicken-keeping, flowers, needlework.

Click here for details, and registration.

Learn all about backyard chicken-keeping, at Wakeman Town Farm.

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Speaking of spring: As Westporters venture outside for spring cleaning, they’re finding plenty to do.

Including tidying up this stretch of Old Hill Road.

(Photo/Susan Garment)

Looks like quite a winter, in that part of town.

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Here’s some stop-the-presses info: Inklings News — Staples High School’s newspaper — has won a Gold Crown Award. That’s the highest given by the Columbia Scholastic Press Association.

The honor was for hybrid (print and web) news coverage.

This is the third time Inklings News has received this distinction, and the first in consecutive years.

Inklings News is also the only high school organization in New England to receive this recognition for both print and web coverage this year.

The award honors the work of last year’s (2024–’25) Inklings News web and paper staffs, including:

  • Editors-in-chief: Nina Bowens, Lily Hultgren
  • Creative cirectors: Alex Gaines, Olivia Signorile
  • Paper managing editors: Katherine Phelps, Mia Bomback, Angelina Matra
  • Associate paper managing editors: Cici Petrosinelli, Lily Rimm, Anna Kercher, Demi Sasson
  • Web managing editors: Rachel Olefson, Samantha Sandrew
  • Social Media Managers: Audrey Curtis, Poppy Harrington

Congratulations to all — including Inklings News advisors Joseph DelGobbo and Mary Elizabeth Fulco.

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Over 30 years ago, a concerned group of parents with learning disadvantaged children created a group called Our Vision. Their goal was to provide a rich, meaningful life for them, in a society that offered few programs to help.

Today, Our Vision members participate in summer, fall and winter Special Olympics games. Weekly training in track and field, swimming, bowling and bocce has resulted in many medals.

There are outings to community theater, pizza parties and dinner shows. Every Saturday, members take a bus to the Westport Weston Family YMCA, for sports and gym activities, swim training, social games, and arts and crafts projects.

Our Vision also participates in the Special Olympics fundraiser. This year’s event is April 11 (11 a.m., Jennings Beach, Fairfield). Anyone can participate (or, more warmly, cheer).

Donations can be made online here, or by check to “SOCT/Penguin Plunge,” 4 Cross Highway, Westport, CT 06880. Write “Our Vision/Peter Bradeen” on the memo line.

Peter Bradeen (right) and Penguin Plunge friends.

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The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is tomorrow (Thursday, March 26, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).

It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.

Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.

RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.

PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!

VFW benefits luncheon.

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On Saturday, the Staples Service League of Boys (SLOBs) will help stock Homes with Hope’s Gillespie Center food pantry.

They’ll be at Big Y from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Most needed items include pasta and pasta sauce, peanut butter, jelly, mac ‘n’ cheese, canned foods (tuna, chicken, salmon), and laundry detergent.

Can’t make it Saturday? Click here for the Amazon wish list. Goods are shipped directly to Homes with Hope.

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The Planning & Zoning Department warns that there are fake “invoices” coming from a false P&Z address.

They say: “Scammers are impersonating town officials regarding zoning and public hearing fees.

“The Town of Westport will never request payments via calls, texts, emails or apps (Venmo/Zelle/CashApp). Do not share personal info or send payment.

“Verify with P&Z (203-341-1030); report scams to the Westport Police non- emergency line (203-341-6000).”

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Frank Murgalo — who wrote the great memoir “My Mid-Life Crisis at 82” — should pack ’em in at his next author talk.

The venue is tailor-made: the Senior Center.

It’s April 7 (2:45 p.m.). Reservations are required: 203-341-5099.

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Cat Malkin thought the message at this gas station was rich.

“Seems more like the Taking Pump,” she says.

(Photo/Cat Malkin)

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You may not be ready for the Penguin Plunge (story above).

But these guys — neither humans nor penguins — took to the water this week, for an early spring swim.

Along the way, they ended up as our “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

(Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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And finally … 2 musical giants share a birthday.

Aretha Franklin was born on this date in 1942. She died in 2018.

Elton John was born in 1947. He’s still going strong.

(Speaking of spring cleaning: As you’re plowing through your to-do list, please don’t forget to click here, to help support “06880.” Our hyper-local blog depends on our readers. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Media, Staples HS

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Roundup: Did You Lose A Time Capsule, License Plate Or Port-a-potty?

Posted on March 18, 2026 | 7 comments

With temperatures in the 20s this morning, few people were thinking about the beach.

Except for non-residents hoping to buy one of the 450 beach stickers available to anyone living outside of Westport and Weston.

They went on sale at 9 a.m. today. By 7:15, a small crowd had already formed outside the Parks & Recreation Department office at Longshore.

(Photo/Carm Roda)

Sales to Westport and Weston residents — with no limit — begin tomorrow (Thursday), at 9 a.m. Click here for fees.

If you bought emblems or registered for programs in previous seasons, your online account is already set up. Click here to log in. Then select “Memberships,” and follow the prompts.

If you have not bought emblems or registered for programs previously, click here. Then click the “Purchase Now” icon on the right.

Emblems will be mailed in 14-21 days. They are not required until May 1.

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The Board of Finance’s next “office hours” — open times at which residents can chat with a member about questions or concerns — are tomorrow (Thursday).

There are 2 sessions — 10 to 11 a.m., and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. — at the Westport Library’s Room 213.

Last month’s office hours drew a diverse crowd — including 2 Staples High School students, doing a civics project.

“We had very productive conversations,” says BOF member Allyson Stollenwerck.

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Also tomorrow: Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas continues the “Your State, Your Business” speaker series.

She’ll speak at the Westport Library (Thursday, 11 a.m.). Thomas will describe her wide-ranging job, followed by a discussion and Q-and-A.

The 3-part series — sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — kicked off with state comptroller Sean Scanlon. It concludes April 2, with Attorney General William Tong.

Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas

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A reader writes: “I attended Coleytown Elementary School during the 1976 bicentennial year. We buried time capsules there, but I don’t know exactly where (I recall a ceremony by a flagpole in front of the school).

“I’m guessing they’re still buried. I reached out to the school, and am waiting to hear back.

“It would be interesting to see these time capsules opened and shared, if at all feasible.”

So, “06880” has 2 thoughts:

  • Does anyone remember the Coleytown El time capsules — specifically, where they were buried?
  • How about any other time capsules in town?

The 250th anniversary of our nation seems like a good time to unearth them.

If you have any ideas, now is the “time” to share them. Please click “Comments” below.

Coleytown Elementary School. Is there a time capsule there?

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The Staples High School girls basketball fell 5 points short of the state championship game last night.

The #3-seeded Wreckers fell 67-62 to #10 Bristol Central, at Bethel High.

Staples finishes 23-4. Two of those losses were to Greenwich, including the FCIAC championship.

Staples coach Tommy Sparks told The Ruden Report, “We’re obviously proud of the fight. We were down a few times in the game where it looked like it could have been over, but the girls continued to execute, the girls continued to defend. It was a pleasure just to watch the resilience and the growth from these girls throughout the season. Obviously, it was a special season for us.” Click here for the full Ruden Report story (paywall).

On Monday, the Wrecker boys basketball team advanced to their final. Ranked first in Division I, they’ll seek their first state crown since 1937 this Saturday, 8:30 p.m. at Mohegan Sun, against #2 West Haven.

Staples 2026 girls basketball team.

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MoCA\CT’s celebration of “Art, Jazz + the Blues” — the title of their current exhibition — continues with a “community conversation” March 26 (5:30 p.m.).

Exhibit co-curator Ive Covaci leads a panel of noted musicians, artists, educators and scholars in an exploration of how jazz and blues continue to inspire creativity across art forms — and within our own community.

Panelists include: Brian Torff (bassist, composer and Fairfield University music professor; Dr. Richard Epstein (vice president, Jazz Society of Fairfield County and longtime WPKN host); Kevin Mazzarella (Staples High School band director and trumpeter), and Caitlin von Schmidt (musician, graphic designer, and daughter of artist Eric von Schmidt, whose works are the foundation of the “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibition.

The evening begins with a guitar performance by Tim Cole. Click here for tickets.

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How did you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?

Three generations of Westport Pardons — former Fordham  University Gaelic Society  president Ed, son Chris and grandson Conor — enjoyed yesterday’s parade in New York.

And we’re sure Conor’s teacher will “pardon” him for taking an afternoon off to salute his heritage!

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Staples High School Class of 1994 graduate Lisa Bastoni was featured at First Folk Sunday in 2024. She returns October 4.

In the meantime, she’s written “There Are No Kings in America.” Suzanne Sheridan — founder of First Folk Sunday — will perform Lisa’s song at the “No Kings” rally on Jesup Green (March 28). Suzanne Sheridan at the NO KINGS Rally at Jesup Green on Saturday March 28.

PS: Creativity runs in Lisa’s family. She’s the granddaughter of noted Westport artists Walter and Naiad Einsel.

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Faherty honors World Down Syndrome Day this Saturday (March 21) with a special Sweet P Bakery pop-up event.

From noon to 2 p.m. at the Main Street store, Sweet P founder Andrea Pecoriello and baker Charlie Biondo will serve some of their favorite goods, for purchase.

The bakery’s mission is to provide training and employment for adults with disabilities.

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Westporters know Frank Murgalo as “Santa Claus” at our annual Holiday Stroll (Shhhh … don’t tell the kids!)

He’s also a Marine Corps veteran, who donates time and energy to many excellent causes.

Now — at 82 — he’s written a memoir.

“My Mid-Life Crisis at 82: A Life of Mischief, Mayhem and Making It Work…” chronicles his wild, adventurous life. He’s been an auditor, fishmonger, actor and stand-up comedian. He writes about stopping Super Bowl XVII, being tackled by the FBI, and outwitting the State Department — all with an inspiring message of resilience, risk and laughter.

On April 7 (2:45 p.m.), Frank gives a book talk at the Senior Center. It’s free, but register for a seat: 203-341-5099.

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On Sunday business owners, building managers and tenants of Riverside Corners Westport gathered at Arezzo Ristorante to honor the life of Alon Panovka.

The longtime building owner and supporter of the arts died recently.

Although Alon lived in Atlanta, he spent significant time in the area. In addition to the property at Post Road West and Riverside Avenue, he owned the former post office building on Post Road East, which he redeveloped.

Known by many tenants for his thoughtful stewardship and quiet generosity, Alon also helped launch The Norwalk Art Space, which offers free art and music education to underserved youth.

Alon Panovka gathering, at Arezzo. (Hat tip and photo/Ken Warren)

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If you’re missing a license plate: This was spotted by the entrance to 225 Main Street.

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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Was it windy Monday night?

No s—!

And Bob Weingarten spotted the literal result of that yesterday morning, at Sherwood Island State Park:

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Longtime Westport resident Dominick Boccanfuso died Saturday. He was 86.

The New York native moved here with his family in 1949. A proud Merchant Marine officer, Dominick was licensed to pilot vessels up to 100 gross tons. He had a lifelong passion for boating and fishing, and shared that love with family and friends.

An entrepreneur from a young age, Dominick began his career at 18, opening his first gas station with his brothers, Giuseppe Jr. and Crescienzo.

Their drive extended beyond business, ultimately leading them to build one of the fastest race cars in its class. Dominick led this effort, designing and rebuilding the car’s power plant each week to ensure it consistently ran down the track with fresh power — a testament to his ambition and mechanical skill.

In 1970 Dominick and his brothers founded Boccanfuso Bros., which quickly became a staple in the Westport community. It reflected their honesty, fairness, dedication, work ethic and strong family values.

Dominick was deeply committed to giving back. For over a decade, he sponsored Westport boys and girls Little League baseball teams. He served as a volunteer firefighter from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, and was a dedicated usher at Assumption Church during holidays. He and his nephew Giuseppe also supported the Swim Across the Sound cancer benefit by escorting participants on their boat.

Beginning in 1982, Dominick spent winters in Hallandale, Florida, with his mother Anna, participating in fundraising efforts at St. Matthew’s Church. He continued this tradition until 2006, following her passing.

He is survived by Giuseppe A. Boccanfuso III, Zhanna Boccanfuso, Giuseppe A. Boccanfuso IV, Victoria I. Boccanfuso, and Valerie I. Boccanfuso; his sister Sophia Freitag; nieces Mary, Anna, Angel, Ann Marie, Jo-Anne, Roselyn, Annie, Pamela Jo, Anna Maria, and their spouses; nephews Giuseppe D. and Crescienzo J., Billy and Joseph Oboy, Vincent and Joseph DiMeglio, and many grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Giuseppe Jr. and Crescienzo, and sisters Carmela B. Oboy and Mary DiMeglio.

Visitation will be held this Friday (March 20, 4-8 p.m. Harding Funeral Home). Funeral services will take place Saturday (March 21, 9 a.m., Assumption Church), followed by interment at Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road.


Dominick Boccanfuso

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Life is ducky for this Hills Lane pair, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo:

(Photo/John Maloney)

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And finally … in honor of Westport’s time capsule(s) (story above):

(It’s always a good time — but especially now — to support “06880.” Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution to Westport’s favorite hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

7 Comments

Posted in Arts, Beach, Local business, Obituaries, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Thanksgiving Pies, PopUp Bagels, Balducci’s …

Posted on October 24, 2025 | 3 comments

Here’s the first Thanksgiving item of the year.

It won’t be the last.

Wakeman Town Farm’s annual Pie Sale begins next month. Proceeds support Earth Animal’s Mitten Project, aiding CT Food Share.

Orders can be placed for fresh-baked 9-inch Oronoque Farms pies: apple, apple crumb, blueberry, blueberry crumb, cherry, cherry crumb, and pumpkin (the latter is unbaked and frozen). Pies are $25 each.

Orders can include “a la mode,” with pints of Madagascar vanilla or bourbon brown sugar ice cream from Lindsay’s Handmade Ice Cream. Pints are $10 each.

Click here to order, and for more information.

Order today!

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Speaking of food: PopUp Bagels is going bicoastal.

The innovative baker — born as a lark in Westport during COVID — has already expanded to 4 Connecticut, 8 New York and 3 Massachusetts locations, plus 1 each in Tampa and Charlotte.

Next up: San Diego.

Specifically, La Jolla.

PopUp’s tagline is “Not famous, but known.” They may soon have to change it to “Not everywhere, but close.”

“06880” reader Elliot Weiler spotted this sight, on a recent visit to La Jolla. “06880”‘s tagline is right: “Where Westport meets the world.”

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Speaking still of food: Atlantic Retail is advertising a “rare big box opportunity on Route 1 in Westport, CT.”

The subject line in an email to realtors describes the 1385 Post Road property as “NEW Listing: Former Balducci Space Available.”

Photos show the store, with its 12,233 square feet on the ground floor, and more on the second and lower levels.

But Balducci’s is not “former.”

Nor, according to a manager who answered the phone, are they closing. “I’d be one of the first to know,” he says.

“06880” has learned that Balducci’s has a 10-year lease.

Stay tuned.

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The Staples High School boys soccer team lost only 2 matches, this season.

Last night at Fairfield Warde, they avenged one. Brendan Allen’s goal, and air-tight defense, helped the Wreckers beat Stamford 1-0, in the FCIAC (league) semifinal.

That vaults them into Monday’s final. They’ll face Greenwich: the only other squad to edge them this year. Kickoff is 6 p.m. October 27, at Fairfield Warde.

Staples is shooting for its 28th FCIAC title — by far the most in the league. But it would be their first since 2010, which was capped a string of 3 straight. They made the finals the next year too, but fell to Trumbull.

The Staples girls soccer team, meanwhile, has a semifinal of their own. They face Greenwich tonight (Friday) at Fairfield Ludlowe. Game time is 5 p.m.

Staples boys soccer celebrates their win. (Photo/John Walker)

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Through the first 4 days of early voting, 3.6 % of eligible Westport voters have cast ballots.

The breakdown:

  • Democrats: 413 of 7,952 eligible voters (5.19%)
  • Republicans: 91 of 3,338 eligible voters (2.73%)
  • Unaffiliated: 175 of 7,582 eligible voters (2.31%)

Early voting continues this weekend, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Town Hall.

The early voting schedule next week, also at Town Hall:

Monday, October 27              10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday, October 28              8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, October 29        10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday, October 30            8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, October 31                 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, November 1           10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday, November 2             10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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A new documentary about World War II journalist Sigrid Schultz — a longtime Westport resident, is nearing completion.

“Eyes on Evil” chronicles Schultz’s remarkable career covering the rise and fall of Nazi Germany — from the liberated exuberance of Weimar Berlin to Hitler’s ascent and the devastating aftermath.

It includes the years during the war when Schultz returned to the US and settled in Westport, after being injured in a British bombing raid on Berlin. She launched a nationwide lecture tour to warn Americans about the growing threat of Hitler’s regime.

In 1945 she was among a small group of reporters to cover the liberation of the Buchenwald concentration camp.

The film is directed by Vanessa Johnston, an award-winning documentary filmmaker and former Reuters producer based in Washington. She made several trips to Westport, including an interview with historian John Suggs.

Johnston will launch a fundraising campaign next month. To register for updates, click here.

Sigrid Schultz …

… and Vanessa Johnston and John Suggs, at the plaque honoring Sigrid Schultz off Elm Street. Schultz lived near there.

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Today’s great Halloween lawn decoration comes from Bradley Street:

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

That’s in the Compo Beach neighborhood. So you know there will be plenty of kids (and parents) passing by, a week from today.

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Speaking of Halloween: Tomorrow (Saturday, 2 p.m.), the Westport Library hosts its Pinkalicious Party.

After Victoria Kann reads from her best-selling “Pinkalicious” book, youngsters are invited to join a costume parade around the Library, and trick or treat for Pinkalicious treats on Jesup Green. Click here to register.

Pinkalicious, at the Library.

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Westporters know Frank Murgalo as “Santa Claus” at our annual Holiday Stroll (Shhhh … don’t tell the kids!)

He’s also a Marine Corps veteran, who donates time and energy to many excellent causes.

Now — at 82 — he’s written a memoir.

“My Mid-Life Crisis at 82: A Life of Mischief, Mayhem and Making It Work…” chronicles his wild, adventurous life. He navigated diverse careers, pulled off international hoaxes, and discovered that “success lies in the outrageous ride rather than the finish line.”

Murgalo has been an auditor, fishmonger, actor and stand-up comedian. He writes about stopping Super Bowl XVII, being tackled by the FBI, and outwitting the State Department. Beneath the humor is an inspiring message of resilience, risk and laughter.

Click here to order, and for more information.

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A Revolution is coming to Voices Café.

On November 1 (8 p.m.), the “activist duo” Emma’s Revolution brings their music to the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport,

Known for “fearless, truth-telling lyrics and melodies you cannot resist singing,” their performances span folk to jazz, and funk to rock. Emma’s Revolution has been described as “beauty, power and ferocity all mixed together with love and hope.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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“The A Chronicles 10-Minute Play Festival” — “bold, funny and fearless short dramas” by 9 playwrights, selected from over 350 submissions — runs for 2 performances on November 2 (2 and 7 p.m., at MoCA CT).

The A Chronicles stages live theatrical events around reproductive rights —”amplifying voices, disrupting narratives to fuel real conversations.”

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Theatre Artists Workshop’s 42n annual Fall Festival of New Works — 9 original short plays — includes performances by Westporters including Melody James, Susan Jacobson and Linde Gibb.

Dates are November 1 (7:30 p.m.) and November 2 (2 p.m.), at Powerhouse Theatre Performing Arts Center in New Canaan.

Theatre Artists Workshop was founded in Westport in 1983. For more information, click here. For tickets, click here.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Willowbrook Cemetery.

Photographer Elenee Argent says, “follow the yellow brick road. The paved path is covered in yellowed pine needles.”

(Photo/Elenee Argent)

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And finally … of course, based on the photo above:

(You don’t need a wizard to know that “06880” relies on reader support. And that if you enjoy your hyper-local blog — which we know you do! — you can click here to contibute. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Children, Library, Local business, Sports, Staples HS

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Unsung Hero #331

Posted on April 17, 2024 | Comments Off on Unsung Hero #331

Mickey Herbst nominates Frank Murgalo as this week’s Unsung Hero. He writes:

Frank plays Santa Claus at “06880”‘s downtown Holiday Stroll every December. He kicks off the holiday season in a great way.

This past December, Santa needed a major operation to remove a cancerous kidney. Frank delayed the operation one month, so Santa could make the holiday stroll.

[NOTE FROM “06880” FOUNDER DAN WOOG: I’m the guy who hires Santa. This is the first I heard of this. Frank never told me about his health. Astonishing!]

Santa (aka Frank Murgalo) and friend. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Unfortunately, Frank is now scheduled for a heart operation. Once again he is delaying the operation until he runs a much-needed fundraiser for Westport veterans at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 on May 3.

Frank is a Marine Corps veteran, and wants to give back to those less fortunate than himself.

I know Frank. This will be a great show.

Mickey is on the money. Frank would certainly deserve an Unsung Hero award for his contributions to the Stroll and VFW — even without his sacrifices.

So let’s honor Frank beyond today’s story. On May 3 (6:30 p.m. food and cocktails; 8 p.m. show; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399), Frank joins US military veterans Rodney Norman and Howie Mason for an evening of laughs. It’s called “The Young Guns of Comedy” (get it?!)

The 3 comedians specialize in military stories.

Dinner includes a lobster roll and wings. Click here for reservations, or call Frank: 203-856-4222.

(“Unsung Hero” is one of “06880”‘s regular features. If you enjoy this one — or any others — please support our work by clicking here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Gather ‘Round The Table, Dan Hurley, Scrabble …

Posted on March 25, 2024 | 2 comments

Homes with Hope invites residents interested in helping young women in need of a supportive home to “Gather ‘Round the Table” on May 14 (11:30 a.m., The Inn at Longshore).

The theme of the non-profit’s annual event — “home as a place of healing” — inspires local designers and home stores to create and donate unique tablescapes. Attendees can purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win the table designs.

The luncheon benefits Project Return at Susie’s House, on Compo Road North. Plans have been approved for renovations, to better accommodate the needs of homeless women in Fairfield County.

Once completed, the unique program will offer a longer-term housing solution, in a nurturing and home-like environment.

Click here for tickets.

Project Return’s “Susie’s House.”

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The University of Connecticut is the #1 seed in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament.

And who better to interview Husky coach Dan Hurley than another Nutmegger, Dave Briggs?

During March Madness, the longtime Westporter is hosting “Fast Break” for Turner Sports.

It includes live game action, analysis, post-game reaction and social media moments.

The show is available at MarchMadness.com, and the “March Madness Live” app.

Click below for the Dan Hurley clip:

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Speaking of media: A few years back, young Jeffrey Pogue and his partner won the North American School Scrabble Championship — 2 years in a row.

This year — as a first-year Brown University student — the 2023 Staples High School graduate was back.

This time, he was an event commentator.

No, it does not capture national attention like March Madness. There are no brackets, and you won’t talk about it today at work or in school.

But it does have a website. Click here to see.

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Last night around 7:25, a truck turned into Trader Joe’s.

Literally.

(Photo/Chris Fanning)

Chris Fanning — who was there — writes: “Westport Police were soon on the scene, and smoothly straightened things out. I’m not so sure about the building!”

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Half an hour later, a Westporter coming off I-95 exit 18 saw this sight:

Her son’s first thought, as the string of lights moved, was “aliens!”

They quickly learned though, it was Elon Musks’s  Starlink satellites.

Not quite extraterrestrials. But still pretty cool.

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Picture taken at approx 8:08pm coming off of exit 18 on I-95 where we came to a full stop to view (and I’m sure the cars behind us weren’t thrilled – but were nice enough to not honk).

Fans of the “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll know Frank Murgalo as the event’s Santa Claus. (Shhh…don’t tell the kids!)

On May 3 (6:30 p.m. food and cocktails; 8 p.m. show), VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399), he trades his St. Nick suit for a microphone.

Frank joins 2 other US military veterans — Rodney Norman and Howie Mason — for an evening of laughs. It’s called “The Young Guns of Comedy” (get it?!)

The 3 comedians specialize in military stories.

Dinner includes a lobster roll and wings. Click here for reservations, or call Frank: 203-856-4222.

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Whatever goes around, comes around.

In 2005, Allyson Stollenwerck was sworn in to the Board of Finance by Patty Strauss. The new board member was pregnant with her first child, and just beginning 6 years in office.

The 2005 swearing-in …

On Friday she was sworn in again — this time by Ruth Cavayero — to the same body. She’s filling Brian Stern’s seat, after his recent resignation.

,,, and 2024.

Her child is now 2 months away from his Staples High School graduation.

Congratulations, Allyson!

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The Wheels2U app, used to book rides on Westport’s door-to-train station shuttle service, will be upgraded tonight. Riders can use the upgraded app beginning tomorrow morning (Tuesday, March 26).

To keep riding on Wheels2Um after tonight:

  1. Log into the Wheels2U app. You will be prompted to create a new account. You can use your current one, or new credentials;
  2. Re-enter your payment information;
  3. Book your next ride.

Riders should add an extra 5 minutes before booking your next trip, to update your account.

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As rain poured down on Saturday, these deer sought refuge on Bayberry Lane.

Jonathan Alloy snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, near Easton Road.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

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And finally … happy 77th birthday to Elton John!

And of course, my favorite:

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