Tag Archives: Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall

Roundup: Levitt Lineup — And All That Jazz …

Posted on August 3, 2026 | 1 comment

Yesterday, an “06880” reader asked about the status of the Cross Highway bridge replacement project.

Timing is everything. Two hours later, Department of Public Works director Larry Roberts announced the launch of a Monthly Project Update.

It’s designed to keep residents informed about municipal infrastructure and construction projects. Beginning now, it’s available on the town website,

Each update will include the name and location of projects, a brief scope of work, the current status, and the anticipated completion date.

Other projects underway include Compo Road South sidewalks and Compo marina seawall replacement (estimated completion, this fall), Sherwood Mill Pond tide gates (November), and Compo marina pier replacement (spring 2027).

Questions about any current or upcoming project? Call DPW: 203-341-1120.

So about Cross Highway: It’s still scheduled to be completed “prior to the start of the school year.”

This is the bridge that’s being replaced.

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Every year, the Levitt Pavilion offers 50-plus nights of free entertainment.

But it relies on several paid-ticketed events to keep the (stage) lights on.

A few of those shows are upcoming. The biggest: Bonnie Raitt (next Sunday, August 9).

Coming soon:

  • The Revivalists, with Olivia Barnes (August 11)
  • The Machine performs Pink Floyd (August 21)
  • Andy Frasco & the UN and Kitchen Dwellers, with Magoo
  • Charlie Hall’s Get Up With It: Miles Davis Centennial (August 24)
  • Mihali: Full bnd show, with Mr. Mota (September 4)
  • Hollywood Nights: Bob Seger Experience (September 5)

Click here for more information, and tickets.

Bonnie Raitt

Meanwhile, there are plenty of free shows too.

Tuesday (August 4, 7 p.m.): The Joy Clark Trio. Her debut album, “Tell It to the Wind,”  marks Clark’s arrival on the national stage as a proud, queer Black woman. She blends the social consciousness of folk, the rhythms of southeast Louisiana, and the soul-centered music she grew up with.

Wednesday (August 5. 7 p.m.): Children’s Series, with Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winner Flor Bromley.

Thursday (August 6, 7:30 p.m.): Homage to the “Days Between*” with The Red Planet and special guest Crispin Cioe — the Westport saxophonist who played on “Love Shack,” and has recorded and toured with the Rolling Stones, James Brown, Ray  Charles, the B-52s, Robert Plant, Solomon Burke, Joe Cocker, Debbie Harry and Aretha Franklin. *The “Days Between” is the 9-day period from August 1 to 9, marking the birth and death of Jerry Garcia.

Friday (August 7, 7:30 p.m.): The Devon Gilfillian Time Will Tell tour. Devon’s music ranges from neo-soul and R&B to funk and rock. Devon recently appeared at the Newport Folk Festival.

Other free August shows include breakout band Improvement Movement with Memo, Christine Ohlman (aka the Beehive Queen), Logical Pretzel (the music of Steely Dan), pop classical stars the String Queens,. Lizzy & the Triggerman (swing) and Broadway and American Songbook favorite Frank Mastrone & Friends. Click here for details, and more information.

Free shows at the Levitt Pavilion. 

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Speaking of entertainment: Congratulations, Daniel Planas!

Last Thursday during the weekly Jazz at the Post show at VFW Post 399, the young saxophonist from Stratford received the Jazz Society of Fairfield County’s Micky Golomb Scholarship. He is a rising sophomore, studying music at the University of Connecticut.

Created to honor the memory of a local saxophonist, educator and regular attendee of the Jazz Society’s Thursday performances, the scholarship is awarded to students pursuing a career in jazz performance, composition and/or jazz education. It is based on musicianship, determined by a jury of professional jazz educators.

In addition to the receiving the $5000 award, Daniel joined an all-star group of jazz musicians at last week’s Thursday night Latin Jazz show. He played with Michael Mossman, professor of jazz studies at Queens College and Julliard, Cuban pianist Luis Perdono, 6- time Grammy winner Vince Cherico, Alex “Apolo” Ayala, Carly Moldanado, and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Daniel Planas (left) and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” wall, at VFW Post 399.

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A new networking tradition began last week at Zucca Gastrobar.

Business owners, executives, entrepreneurs and local leaders joined at the debut of the Executive Networking Series. The initiative strengthens business relationships, while introducing local companies to nonprofit organizations  throughout Fairfield County.

It was created through a partnership between VTB Financial and Prestige Cabinetry & Design LLC

The first event featured Operation Hope and the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club. Representatives from both groups highlighted the impact their programs have across the region.

A generous donation was presented to Operation Hope by Dushi Marble & Granite. The next Executive Networking Series will be announced soon. For more information, email anna.b@PCDTeam.com.

Executive Networking Series at Zucca. (Photo/Sylvia Janik Photography)

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It’s not a race.

But Amtrak’s Acela led Metro-North’s New Haven line train yesterday around noon, at the Westport station.

(Photo copyright/DinkinESH Fotografix)

Plus, the long-distance one looks a lot cooler.

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Local resident Peter Mossa died on July 25. He was 58.

His family calls Peter “the kind of person who could brighten any room simply by walking into it. He had a true sparkle, infectious enthusiasm, and a gift for making everyone feel like a friend. He never cared much for formalities — you were far more likely to find him in shorts, a t-shirt and barefoot than dressed up.”

He enjoyed his family, spending time with friends, sharing stories, making people laugh, snowboarding, snowmobiling and celebrating the holidays at his parents’ home in Vermont. Summers were spent on his boat, fishing or tying up with friends to barbecue.

Peter was also a gifted craftsman, whose skill and attention to detail left a lasting mark on countless homes and the lives of those who live in them. His strong work ethic, integrity and dedication earned the respect of everyone.

His family says, “For many years, Peter battled clinical depression. He sought treatment, held onto hope, and never stopped trying to find healing. Though his illness ultimately claimed his life, it never defined the man he was. Peter is deeply loved, and his loss leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew him.

Peter is survived by his wife Arlene; children Haley and Max; parents Joseph and Deanna; siblings Susan Young (Larry), Joe Jr. (Luisa) and Katie Carmody (Josh); in-laws Wendy Jacobsen (Stephen); several nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends,

His family says, “For those who knew Peter, please remember his laughter and sense of humor, his compassion, his strong loyalty, and his unending love for family and friends. While our hearts are shattered, we find comfort in knowing he is now at peace. We’re forever grateful for the joy he brought into our world and the love he shared so freely.

The family encourages anyone struggling with depression or mental illness to reach out for help (everwellct.org), keep talking, and hold onto hope. Peter’s story is a reminder that mental illness can affect anyone- and is an illness —not a weakness—and that every life is precious.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Pete’s name to your local Humane Society, animal shelter or your favorite charity organization.

Peter’s memorial aervice will be held August 6 (11 a.m., Norfield Congregational Church, Weston). Casual Florida attire is encouraged.

Peter Mossa

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Mark Mathias provides today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, with this note:

“After last week’s storm overflowed Deadman Broo between Winslow Park and Saugatuck cemetery, the marshy parts did what they were supposed to do and absorbed much of the overflow.

“The moisture also brought to life this beautiful fungus/mushroom/whatever (I’m not a botanist) that I trust will remain while the ground stays moist.”

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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And finally … Vicki Wickham was not a household name. But she was “a behind-the-scenes force in popular music who helped oversee the influential British television showcase ‘Ready Steady Go!'” and managed artists including Labelle and the singer Dusty Springfield.

She died Friday in the Bronx, at 87. Click here for a full obituary.

(If you’ve ever discovered a great show — or other event — here, well, that’s our job. We do it 24/7/365. But we can’t do it without your support. Please click here to thank us with a donation! Thank you!)

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Roundup: Crypto Scheme, State Senate Race, Ruden Report …

Posted on July 20, 2024 | 17 comments

2011 Staples High School graduate Dylan Meissner pleaded guilty Thursday in US District Court to wire fraud. He was charged with stealing nearly $4.5 million from the crypto company, where he was vice president of finance.

He played baseball at Staples. According to his LinkedIn profile, he graduated with a BS in accounting from Pennsylvania State University in 2015, where he was active in the Penn State Investment Association.

In 2016, Meissner received an accounting MS from Penn State’s Smeal College of Business.

Though his company was not identified, his LinkedIn profile says he was VP of finance at Delphi Digital, during the time frame covered by the court. An FBI investigation found that he diverted $4,461,828 in the firm’s funds to cover “significant personal trading losses.”

Wire fraud carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. He will be sentenced on October 11. In the meantime, he has been order to pay restitution of $4,633,424.99.

Cryptocurrency

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Kami Evans has announced her candidacy for Connecticut’s Senate District 26.

Democratic incumbent Ceci Maher is serving her first term in Hartford. Evans — a former Westport resident — now once again lives here. The district includes Westport, Weston, Wilton, Redding, and parts of Ridgefield, New Canaan, Darien and Stamford.

In her announcement, Evans — who has worked for non-profits and in public relations, and is running as a Republican — said: “I’m here to champion family values and focus on community strength. Our journey together will be about uniting, uplifting, and creating endless opportunities for our district that everyone will benefit from.

“Your voice matters, and I’m here to listen. Let’s engage in meaningful conversations and work hand in hand to rejuvenate our district. Together, we can achieve greatness and build a brighter, stronger future for all.”

Kami Evans

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Last night’s full moon drew a full complement of photographers.

Thanks to all who submitted images. Here’s one of the best, from Old Mill Beach:

(Photo/Patricia Auber)

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Yesterday’s Roundup included a photo of the “Welcome to Westport” sign at the Sherwood Island Connector and Post Road East.

Actually — depending on which direction you’re traveling — it now says “Welcome to Estport” or “Welcome to Westpor.” A recent accident sliced off a bit of the wood.

How recent? “06880” Mary Lou Roels reports: “The sign was hit on June 29, and the car caught on fire. I approached after midnight to see this (below). Fire crews managed the scene.”

(Photo/Mary Lou Roels)

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For 10 years, The Ruden Report has been the go-to site for coverage of FCIAC high school athletics. All 16 schools in the Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference get plenty of ink — well, pixels — in a wide variety of boys and girls sports.

Now, the multi-platform source — the brainchild of 1978 Staples High School graduate Dave Ruden — has been acquired

Westport-based Connoisseur Media is the new owner. Their resources — including 6 radio stations, and various digital brands — will enable Ruden to expand reporting throughout the area.

Connoisseur operates and/or owns WEBE 108, STAR 99.9, WYBC, WICC, 99.1 WPLR, and 95.9 The Fox in Connecticut.

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It will be an exciting October for Fred Cantor.

The 1971 Staples High School graduate produced 2 films. In the span of a week, both will have their television premieres on CPTV.

“The High School That Rocked!” — a 2017 documentary that chronicles concerts at Staples by the Doors, Cream, Rascals, Animals, Remains, Sly and the Family Stone, and others (including a very young, pre-Aerosmith Steve Tyler) — is set for October 14 (9 p.m.).

Cantor made the film with Casey Denton, a 2014 Staples grad who obviously was born way after that golden era. The film earned kudos on the festival circuit.

A week later (October 21, 9 p.m.), Cantor’s “It’s a Hollywood Life!” debuts.

That film — released this year — focuses on longtime Westport resident Susan Granger’s 80-plus years connected to the movie business. (Spoiler alert: She started in childhood,  appearing with some of the biggest stars during the Golden Age of Hollywood.)

BONUS REEL: People in and near New York City can see “It’s A Hollywood Life!” in a theater. Its NYC premiere is next Saturday (July 27, at the Chain NYC Film Festival). A Q-and-A after the screening features co-director Maya Weldon-Lagrimas, who recently received the Howard R. Lamar Prize in Film from Yale — the school’s top film prize. Click here for ticket information.

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Jazz at the Post has announced 3 upcoming dates: August 1 (Melissa Newman), August 15 (Uri Caine) and August 29 (Janice Friedman).

Shows are 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 on Riverside Avenue. Dinner service starts at 7 p.m. Click here for tickets, and more information.

In other jazz news, on Wednesdays (starting September 11), Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall will coach 2 adult ensembles: beginners and intermediates/ advanced. Both provide “a gentle and stimulating opportunity to learn and refine the repertoire and language of jazz.”

All levels of musicianship and experience are welcome. The first 2 sessions are free. To learn more, email jazzrabbi@gmail.com. Include your instrument and phone number.

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Former Westporter Kathryn McCabe died June 30. She was 97, and lived in Fairfield.

The Michigan native, and 1948 graduate of the University of Michigan, spent 43 years in Westport.

She was a social worker in Detroit and Norwalk, where she worked for STAR. Kathryn also volunteered at Earthplace.

She enjoyed reading, opera, the outdoors, water and snow skiing, tennis, boating, playing piano and ukelele, and singing.

Kathryn loved animals, especially her cats and dogs. She celebrated her 90th birthday with horseback riding.

Survivors include her twin daughters, Janet Gibbons (Ken) of Hyde Park, Vermont, and Marjorie Wroblewski (Broni) of Fairfield; son Richard (Donna) of Acton, Massachusetts; grandchildren Greg Gibbons (Jennifer), Geoff Gibbons (Melissa), Lauren Wroblewski (fiancé Ferg Young) and Ryan McCabe, and great- grandchildren Emma, Colin, James, Beckett and Jackson. Kathryn was predeceased by her brothers Richard, Norman and Jack Ellison. She was predeceased by her husband, Barry McCabe.

A celebration of her life was held at the Gaelic-American Club in Fairfield.

Kathryn McCabe

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Among the underappreciated assets of Westport: the flower pots on Soundview Drive.

Paid for and maintained by the Compo Beach Improvement Association, they serve 2 purposes.

They slow traffic (theoretically, at least).

And — changing with the seasons — they are beautiful.

Check out one of them, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

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And finally … Bernice Johnson Reagon, “whose stirring gospel voice helped provide the soundtrack of the civil rights movement, then went on to become a cultural historian, a curator at the Smithsonian Institution and the founder of the women’s a cappella group Sweet Honey in the Rock,” died Tuesday in Washington. She was 81.

She was a remarkable, multi-talented woman whose accomplishments may be unknown to many. Click here for her full obituary.

(Another day, another weekend … and “06880” keeps keeping you informed on all things Westport. It’s what we do — but we can’t do it without your support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Obituaries, Police, Politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Justin Paul, Malachy McCourt, Jackson Pollock …

Posted on March 12, 2024 | 9 comments

Staples is not the only high school to produce “James and the Giant Peach.”

But it may be the only one whose cast spent a full afternoon with the composer, as they prepare for the opening curtain.

Then again, Staples is the only high school that Justin Paul — the songwriter — graduated from.

The 2003 alum returned yesterday to the stage where he got his start. Staples Players directors David Roth and Kerry Long — who worked with Paul on a number of shows, and introduced him to Stephen Schwartz (“Godspell,” “Pippin,” “Wicked”), now a longtime mentor and friend — led a Q-and-A session with Paul, as the cast and crew of “James and the Giant Peach” sat on stage.

Paul said he “found his people” in Staples’ 4 Building (the arts wing), where he sang; played in the orchestra, band and jazz band; conducted and wrote music, and danced (though, he stressed, not well).

Staples was also where Paul met Peter Duchan, another talented songwriter 2 years older who later collaborated with Paul and his writing partner, Benj Pasek. They met at the University of Michigan.

Paul — who majored in musical theater — discussed the many paths to work in the industry, and the importance of nurturing relationships.

Then he headed over to a keyboard, and led Players in a workshop with the songs — his songs — they’ll be singing from March 21-24. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Justin Paul (left), inside the “giant peach” on the Staples stage, with directors Kerry Long and David Roth. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Justin Paul, working with the cast of “James and the Giant Peach” … (Photo/Kerry Long)

… and posing with them, on the set. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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Speaking of the entertainment industry:

News of the death of Malachy McCourt yesterday, at 92, reminded me of his Westport connection.

Frank McCourt’s brother — who, the New York Times said, “fled a melancholic childhood in Ireland for America, where he applied his blarney and brogue to become something of a professional Irishman as a thespian, a barkeep and a best-selling memoirist” — was also an actor. His best known role was on “Ryan’s Hope,” he and I co-starred in a full-length movie.

Well, he was a star. I had a cameo. But still …

Back in the day, Westport filmmaker Sean Cunningham directed “Manny’s Orphans.”

He went on to much more fame with “Friday the 13th” and “Spring Break.” But this comedy, about a team of soccer-playing orphans and their rivals from an elite prep school (you’ll never guess who wins the big game!) was shot in Westport and Bridgeport.

Sean used plenty of local kids (and hired me to choreograph all the soccer scenes). But he added in a few actual actors, including Malachy McCord (he played Father Arch McCoy). New York Cosmos star Werner Roth was in the film too.

Click below to see one of the highlights. It’s the Big Game, and was filmed at Greens Farms Academy.

At 2:20, 7;21, 8:16 (and other spots), you’ll see Malachy.

And at 4:47, you’ll see a very young Dan Woog, blowing his whistle as the referee.

“Manny’s Orphans” did not win an Oscar.

But it didn’t have to. All these years later, it still lives on.

Rest in peace, Malachy McCourt!

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The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee meets this Thursday (March 14, 8:30 a.m., Town Hall Room 201).

The agenda includes:

  • Strategic priority review (parking lots reinvention)
  • Downtown lots design master plan (Parker Harding status; Jesup and Imperial; parking maps; EV charging; playground; wayfinding)
  • Other projects status (Avery Street pole removal)
  • Sustainability

The current plan for the Jesup (lower library) parking lot.

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In the middle of Women’s History Month, StartUp Westport looks forward.

Next Monday (March 18, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library), the public/private partnership to make our town a tech entrepreneur hub hosts Galia Gichon.

The financial services and angel investing expert will lead a forum on “Female Founders and Investors.” Prominent women will share their experiences in fundraising, investing, and launching early-stage startups.

Gichon is a longtime Westport resident and the co-managing partner of Tidal River Fund, an early stage investment fund. She has been featured in Newsweek, CNN, The New York Times and more.

For more information, click here.

Galia Gichon

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Also at the Library, this Thursday Westport photographer and artist Stacy Bass introduces a new series. SmART will feature in-depth conversations about art and artists

The first event (March 14, 7 p.m.) focuses on the relationship between artists (and married couple) Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner. Bass will speak with art historian/educator/curator/Pollock and Krasner expert Bobbi Coller. Examples of their artwork will be shown broadcast on the 18-foot refz Forum video wall.

Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner

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Circle of Care supports families of children with cancer through programs and services such as day-of-diagnosis care packages, dream room makeovers, and emergency financial assistance to help pay for non-medical expenses like housing, transportation, and food.

Since 2004 they have helped 3,600 families, and provided over $5 million in services. Many Westporters have been aided by Circle of Care, and many others volunteer.

The non-profit celebrates 20 years with an open house this Friday (March 15, 5 to 8 p.m., 144 Danbury Road, Wilton), a 5K benefit run May 5, and gala at the Loading Dock in Stamford June 13. For more information on Circle of Care, click here. visit their website.

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With Connecticut’s presidential primary near — and the general election coming in November — the registrar’s office will be open this Friday (March 15, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.., Town Hall Room 107) for people new to town or coming of age to register to vote.

They’re also open for registrations during regular office hours.

But this Friday, especially, anyone not otherwise qualified to vote is invited to ask questions about qualifications.

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Grammy Award-winning pianist Kevin Hays and drummer/composer Chase Elodia headline this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (March 14, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $20 music cover, $15 for veterans and students).

They’re joined by bassist Paul Pandit and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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Speaking of “The Jazz Rabbi”: Greg Wall is the special guest at the next “This Is Your Life” program at the Senior Center (March 27, 1 to 2 p.m.).

The series is hosted by Rozanne Gates of The Legacy Project USA, a Westport-based business that documents the stories of people’s lives. She will interviewing Rabbi Wall about his life as rabbi at Beit Chaverim Synagogue, and a jazz musician.

The program is free. Call to register: 203-341-5099.

Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall

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For a computer glitch reason, some “06880” readers did not receive Sunday’s lead story, about Wendy Modic succeeding Kammy Maxfeldt as the Birchwood Country Club golf pro.

The 2 women have succeeded in a largely male profession.

If you did not receive the story in your email, click here to read.

Wendy Modic

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is impressive — and a bit scary.

Max Waugh spotted this coyote (the size of a small wolf) on Reimer Road, just west of the Bedford Middle School entrance. (Hat tip: Carl Addison Swanson)

(Photo/Max Waugh)

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And finally … Eric Carmen, lead singer of the Raspberries who then went on to a solo career, has died. He was 74. Click here for a full obituary.

(Justin Paul, Malachy McCourt, Jackson Pollock — they’re all part of “Where Westport Meets the World.” Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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