Last night — barely 24 hours after a mass shooting at an Australian Hanukkah celebration — Westporters gathered for the first night of the Festival of Lights.
Rabbi Yehuda Kantor told the crowd: “We must not be pulled down — only up. Light your candles to bring warmth to your home, and light to the world.”
Rabbi Yehuda Kantor, with Chabad’s ice menorah. (Hat tip and photo/Matthew Mandell)
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If you hoped for a resolution of the “Blue House” — aka 233 Hillspoint Road — saga by the end of the year: You’ll have to wait (quite a bit) longer.
This is one wish not even Santa can grant.
Any closing or progress on the completion of the years-long eyesore diagonally opposite Old Mill Deli has been postponed again.
The reason: new litigation.
Unknown to either the seller or buyer at the October auction, the underlying borrower filed 4 liens less than 24 hours before the auction.
Two were against Summit Westport LLC, who owned the property. Two were mechanic’s liens against the property.
The lender — GLP 2206 LLC — initiated foreclosure action on December 2, to clear title. Any Stamford-Norwalk court action will happen in 2026.
The primary defendants are Summit Westport, LLC and James Pendry personally.
233 Hillspoint Road, in July. Not much has changed since then — except the weather.
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The Connecticut Department of Transportation hosts a “consulting meeting” on how its plan for the William F. Cribari Bridge will affect the landmark properties of the National Historic Bridge Street District.
The session is this Thursday (December 18, 6 p.m., Town Hall).
The Cribari Bridge is on the National Register of Historic Places. (Photo/Ferdinand Jahnel)
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Westporters were out in droves yesterday, photographing the very New England holiday season-ish snow.
“06880” posted more than a dozen great photos. This one from downtown came in later — and it’s a bit more whimsical than all those shots of back yards, fences and (of course) the Minute Man:
Friday’s first-ever Holiday Craft & Gift Sale at the Westport Senior Center was a hit!. A large crowd enjoyed — and bought — items from local artisans.
Senior Center director Wendy Petty, and her staff and volunteers, organized every detail. It was one more special offering, from a center that continually delivers them, to seniors — and many others too. (Hat tip: Linda Doyle)
The Senior Center welcomes the holidays. (Photo/Ed Simek)
A gentle reminder: As you plan year-end giving, please keep “06880” in mind.
We’re a non-profit dedicating to educating the public and creating community, so all contributions are tax-deductible. Corporate matching grants are welcome too!
You can donate online, or by Venmo, Zelle or old-school check. Click here for details. And thank you!
And finally … on this date in 1893, Antonín Dvořák’s “Symphony No. 9” — the “New World Symphony” — premiered at Carnegie Hall.
(From the blue house to the Cribari Bridge — and everywhere in between — “06880” brings you all the Westport news. And we do it 24/7/365. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Basso — the tapas-and-more restaurant that moved to Westport from Norwalk in the middle of the pandemic — is closing.
An email sent yesterday from the Jesup Road spot that replaced Matsu Sushi says: “After nearly 19 wonderful years of serving our community, it is with mixed emotions that we announce the closing of Basso on Thursday, December 18.
“This decision was not made lightly; we have truly cherished every moment shared with you, our loyal guests and friends.
“We want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support, kindness, and the many memories we’ve created together. It has been an honor to be part of your lives—celebrating milestones, hosting your special occasions, and sharing countless meals and conversations.
“As we prepare to close this chapter, we warmly invite you to visit us one last time to reminisce and enjoy your favorite dishes. Thank you for being such an essential part of our story. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.”
I’ve long held a special place in my heart for Basso. The food has been delicious and creative; the hospitality is warm and genuine; the vibe has been great for the town.
Thank you, Renato, Ela, and all who made Basso a favorite destination.
Along with tapas, Basso featured pizzas, from its great wood-fired oven (rear).
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One (restaurant) door closes, and another opens: Westport will soon have another fast-casual, create-your-own-bowl-or-salad dining spot.
Naya arrives Wednesday (December 17), in the Gold’s half of Compo Shopping Center.
The offerings are similar to Sweetgreen, Just Salad, and the very similarly named Cava (click here for the menu). Naya, though, positions itself as “Middle Eastern.”
They’ve got more than a dozen locations in New York City and Long Island. This will be Naya’s second restaurant in Connecticut, after Darien — and its northernmost and easternmost site.
Sticking with today’s food theme, there’s news from Pop-Up Bagels.
Like Basso, they popped up in Westport during the pandemic. In just a few years, Adam Goldberg turned his COVID hobby into a full-blown, award-winning business.
Outlets sprouted in Fairfield, Greenwich and Newtown. Then came New York — a bold (and winning) move — followed by Massachusetts, North Carolina, Florida and California.
The latest Pop-up Bagels is in Portland, Maine. Chip Stephens — a 1973 Staples High School graduate and former Planning & Zoning commissioner, now chief enforcement officer for two Maine towns — spotted this on yesterday’s news:
They’re not stopping now. The next Pop-Up Bagels is planned for Wailea-Makena, Hawaii.
Which means they may need to rethink their motto: “Not famous, but known.”
From coast to coast — and beyond — everyone is learning about (and loving) Pop-Up Bagels.
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Also on the move — though this one is up, not out: a house on Danbury Avenue, near Soundview Drive.
(Photo/Matt Murray)
Like many in the oft-flooded neighborhood, it is being raised to become FEMA-compliant.
Which is a lot better than being razed, to become bigger, taller and broader.
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The first snowfall of the season was perfect: overnight, not overpowering, light and lovely.
Westport celebrated National Wreaths Across America Day yesterday.
VFW Post 399 quartermaster Phil Delgado, Post 399 Auxiliary vice commander Patty Kondub, Joan Polayes, and Scout Troops 39 and 139 honored veterans with a tribute at Assumption Church’s Greens Farms Cemetery.
Post 399 members and volunteers lay remembrance wreaths on over 400 graves. Each wreath symbolized the community’s gratitude, respect and commitment to never forget those who served.
Scouts participating in National Wreaths Across America day (from left): Blake Schuler Ashley Charise, Preston DeRosa, Austin Charise, Will Bernard, Will Manes, Sam Pollack and Alec Mraz. Not pictured: Jacob Luna and Ian Curran.
“A Sherlock Carol” — the family-friendly holiday show written and directed by Mark Shanahan, Westport Country Playhouse artistic director, opened last night for its third annual run there. Click here for tickets, and more information.
The cast of “A Sherlock Carol” takes their bows …
… and writer/director Mark Shanahan is thanked by audience members, after the show. (Photos/Dave Matlow)
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Hanukkah begins tonight, at sundown.
Steve Stein welcomed some early visitors yesterday:
More times than not, I’ve had good interactions with Optimum’s customer service.
Yesterday was one of those “not” times.
The (very) short version: I called the “retention” department to ask for a lower rate. I’ve been a customer since 1993 — I was one of the first dozen or so in Westport to sign up for a cable modem — and this is a ritual I now go through every few months.
The first question — after giving the same information twice, to a bot and a human — was “if we get disconnected, what’s the best callback number?”
(I’ve always found it odd that a company that provides phone service worries about disconnected calls, but whatever.)
I provided my cell number. She read it back to me. On we went.
She spent 15 minutes (supposedly) researching the best retention option. I’m sure she was juggling 3 or 4 other calls at the same time.
Then we got disconnected.
I expected a call back.
It never came.
I finally called again. This time, the customer service representative may have asked again for a callback number. I could not tell though, because whatever language he was speaking, it was not English.
Finally — a full 1 hour and 12 minutes after I began — I got a (middling) retention offer. I’m saving about $30 a month, and will have to go through the same dance again next year.
Was it worth it? I bill my writing clients $200 an hour, so 12 months to save $360 is a bit of a savings.
Weighing in the agita factor, though … probably not.
PS: If anyone at Cablevision is reading this and wants to contact me — well, someone there has my number.
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Years ago, the group below would spend weekday mornings teaching, writing lesson plans, meeting with students, and dealing with administrators and parents.
These days, they do none of that.
And every so often, these ROMEOs — Retired Old Men Eating Out, all of whom spend decades in the Westport schools — get together for breakfast at the Monroe Diner.
How many can you name? Answers below the photo.
From left: Jim Wheeler, Al Jolley, Jim Honeycutt, Bruce McFadden, Toby Watson, Steve Rexford, Bob Selverstone, Werner Liepolt, Ed Bludnicki, Pete Van Hagen, Stan Rhodes.
Yesterday’ Roundup story on the Eartha Kitt/”Santa Baby” composer connection left out one key detail: That it happened at WEST, the Post Road East store owned by the singer’s daughter, Kitt Shapiro.
Here it is again. Hopefully it makes more sense this time:
More than 70 years after its release, “Santa Baby” remains one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time.
Eartha Kitt sang it in 1953. She later moved to Weston, where she died of colon cancer on — coincidentally — Christmas Day, in 2008.
Her daughter Kitt Shapiro now owns WEST, a very popular women’s shop, on Post Road East.
An older woman came into the store on Thursday. Her name was Joan Javits — and she co-wrote “Santa Baby,” all those years ago. (She’s 97 years old — though she sure doesn’t look it!)
Kitt Shapiro and Joan Javits, at WEST.
It may not be the Christmas miracle of 2,000 years ago.
But it’s still pretty amazing.
PS: Among the lyrics Eartha Kitt sang were:
Come and trim my Christmas tree
With some decorations bought at Tiffany’s.
I wonder if after leaving WEST, Joan Javits crossed the street and walked a few yards west.
To buy some decorations at — you know the rest.
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Nancy Vener was up early yesterday. She photographed the fiery sunrise over Burritt Cove, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:
And finally … to all the customer service agents at Optimum (story above):
(Your favorite restaurant may be closing. Your internet service provider may drop your call. But “06880” will always be here for you — so long as you click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Switching celebrations: The United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston’s holiday gift market is especially sweet this year.
The December 6 event (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) includes a “Cookie Walk.” Members will bake — and sell — their delicious goods. Perfect for additional gifts — or just to munch on as you shop for others.
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Meanwhile, up in Weston Jolantha — everyone’s favorite pig — hopes everyone enjoys their turkeys tomorrow.
But not ham.
(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)
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December 1 is the deadline to order wreaths for Westport veterans.
On December 16 — Wreaths Across America Day — volunteers will decorate the graves of veterans in Assumption Church’s Greens Farms Road cemetery.
December 1 is the deadline to order wreaths for our Westport veterans as part of Wreaths Across America!
The Historic District Commission meets December 9 (7 p.m., Zoom).
Among the agenda items: consideration of opposition of demolition permits for these properties, and requiring the full statutory 180-day delay. All are at least 50 years old.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie responded, “Water is a critical public asset, and maintaining local accountability, transparency, and stability in water management remains a top priority for our community. If the $2.4 billion sale had been approved, PURA would have lost its authority to regulate water rates.
The proposed structure would also have replaced traditional property taxes with payments-in-lieu-of-taxes and granted the Regional Water Authority a controlling majority of seats on the Aquarion Water Authority board of directors.
“Throughout the review process, Westport emphasized the importance of ensuring that any ownership or structural changes to Aquarion would safeguard service reliability, infrastructure investment, rate stability, and long-term watershed protection.”
“We appreciate PURA’s thorough evaluation of the proposed transaction and its commitment to ensuring that decisions about Westport’s water utilities serve the public interest.
“As a result of this favorable ruling, residents and ratepayers can be assured that the Town of Westport will continue to work collaboratively with Aquarion and state regulators to ensure that residents receive high-quality, dependable water service.”
Speaking of water: Longshore Sailing School is one of 12 organizations in the US selected for National Association of State Boating Law Administrators’ honors.
It recognizes “exceptional commitment to promoting paddling safety through education, digital content and responsible on-water practices. Longshore’s outreach encourages safe behaviors such as wearing life jackets, understanding weather conditions, and avoiding high-risk activities on the water.”
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Longtime Westport resident and active community volunteer Richard Seclow died Monday at his Easton home. The former Planning & Zoning Commission member and Westport Library board president was 95.
The Bayonne, New Jersey native graduated from Rutgers University in 1951, where he was part of the Cap & Skull Senior Honor Society. He remained an active alumnus over th eyears.
He worked in the advertising industry as David Ogilvy’s chief of staff, before becoming executive vice president of Carl Ally.
As president of Geer DuBois, he relocated the offices from Madison Avenue to downtown. Many ad agencies followed.
Dick started one of the initial Bonanza Steakhouses in Westport. It later became a national franchise. He retired from advertising in 1986, and opened another Westport restaurant: Time to Eat.
Dick enjoyed fishing, travel, tennis, squash and volunteer work in Westport and nearby communities.
He served on the Westport Planning & Zoning Commission, the Westport Library as president, and the boards of Hall-Brooke Hospital and The Jewish Home (now named Mozaic Senior Services).
He was a member of Y’s Men, taught English as a second language, and became a mentor for immigrants in Bridgeport.
He is survived by Rita, his wife of 71 years, children Theresa (David) and Tom (Ann ), and grandchildren Jonathan (Isabella), Alexandra, Calvin and Julian.
An open house to celebrate Dick’s life is set for Saturday (November 29, 1 to 5 p.m., at their home in Easton). Gifts may be made in his name to Mozaic Services or the Easton EMS.
Dick Seclow
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We’ve posted a number of beautiful autumn leaves photos, in our “Westport … Naturally” series.
And finally … a lovely photo needs an equally evocative song:
(Whatever the season, “06880” is here for you. News, events, features, photos — all that and more, 24/7/365. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Posted onJanuary 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.
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:
Last night was the first night of the 12 days of Christmas — and the 8 nights of Hanukkah.
Steve Stein sent a photo …
… and explained some of the items in it. He wrote:
“The 9 candles of a Hanukkah menorah represent the 8 days a tiny jar of holy oil kept the eternal light in the Jerusalem Temple ablaze — considered a miracle. The ninth special taller ‘shamash’ candle is used to light from 1 to 8 candles each night of the holiday.
“The dreidel is a 4-sided spinning top used in a game of chance. The 4 Hebrew letters represent ‘Nass Gadol Hayom Shom — Great Miracle Happened Here.’ You can spina dreidel heavy side down. With years of practice, a dreidel can be spun upside down on the thin stalk.
“Guests include Hanukah Harry, The Mensch on a Bench, the Dreidel Bear, as well as lots of kids and grandkids who get gifts on each of the 8 nights. Or they can opt for Hanukkah gelte (a cashier’s check to ‘just go buy what you want!’).”
“There are also grandma-made potato latkes (pancakes) with sour cream and/or apple sauce, and lots of jelly doughnuts from Coffee An’.
“A great time will be had by all!”
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Tragedy was averted last night, when the Westport Fire Department responded to a fire on Horseshoe Lane, between Compo Road South and Imperial Avenue.
Firefighters confined the thick, smoky blaze to a small basement area. They then cleared the house of smoke and carbon monoxide.
The WFD reminds residents to have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in their homes.
It is important too to have a meeting place outside the home that all occupants know about, so that firefighters can be sure everyone is safe.
Westport Police and Emergency Medical Service and Westport Police assisted. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Westport realtor/artist/fiction writer Jo Ann Miller is out with her third book.
“Road Trip With Spanky” chronicles a journey from Rhode Island to Key West, with her dog.
Donald Trump has just won the 2024 election, when the widow of a dear friend asks an investigator reporter to drive a car from Rhode Island to Key West to give to his estranged son.
The reporter agrees — provided he can take his beloved dog Spanky, and drive only on take rural routes. He wants to meet the American electorate, and find out
what just happened at the polls.
A reviewer wrote: “Most interesting, rarely judgmental, and a fine illumination of what voters really think. You will fall in love with Spanky.” Click here to order via Amazon.
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Pam Kesselman captured these Christmas Day/pre-Hanukkah Compo Beach clouds yesterday, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:
Soon after Hamas’ terror attack on Israel, a woman posted anonymously on the Facebook group “Jewish Westport.” During this difficult time, she was finding it hard to find like-minded friends.
Many people responded, suggesting ways to make new friends.
Charlene Zeiberg decided to host a Hanukkah potluck.
When the number of interested women passed 40, she needed a place larger than her home. Weston Field Club offered their great space — for free.
Charlene worked with 2 co-hosts: Westporter Carolyn Cohen, and Weston’s Stephanie Feingold.
From left: Carolyn Cohen, Stephanie Feingold, Charlene Zeiberg.
About 75 women came to Monday’s potluck. They live in Westport, Weston, Wilton and Fairfield.
Rabbi Shirah Sklar of Norwalk’s Temple Shalom — a Staples High School graduate — led a moving group candle lighting.
Attendees spent the evening mingling, and making new friends.
And of course, the food was delicious.
Menorah lighting and mingling at Monday’s potluck.
The weather will soon turn cold. Westporters will just crank up the heat.
Residents of Lyman — our Ukrainian sister city — don’t have that luxury. They’re facing their second winter in homes and apartments devastated by Russian bombs.
We can help. Our Christmas gift is 2 wood pellet machines — devices that can enable 2,000 homes to be heated, all winter long.
Two anonymous gifts — one for $30,000, the other for $10,000 — got us 2/3 of the way to our $60,000 goal.
Other Westporters chipped in over $12,800 more. Now it’s up to the rest of us to donate $7,200.
For just $30, you can heat one home all winter. $300 will heat 10. There is no better gift for our sister city this holiday season.
Come on, Westport — let’s do this today!
To donate by credit card, click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo. Thank you!
Fetch Dog Rescue — the group that since this past April has found loving homes in this area for over 50 dogs from Southern states who are on the euthanasia list, in high kill shelters with little or no hope of adoption, or found as strays in rural areas – has partnered with Rebel & Rose Tattoo and Piercing in downtown Westport, for a fun event.
This Saturday (December 16, noon to 4 p.m.), they’ll have some adoptable pups at the 155 Post Road East studio. They’ll offer $65 piercings, and a raffle to win a tattoo with owner Amanda Mas.
Yesterday, “06880” featured Charlie Scott, the Staples High School senior who with Oscar Sales produced a compelling short film, “Limbo.”
The story noted that Charlie has gained a great following with his videos of the school’s sports teams.
Here’s his latest effort. It’s the best 2 minutes you’ll ever see of the Wreckers’ state championship football victory on Saturday. From pre-game rituals to the post-game celebration, Charlie’s video — like the Staples football team — is a winner.
All servicemembers are invited to a “Veterans Morning Coffee Social” tomorrow (Thursday, December 14, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Westport Senior Center). On the menu: coffee, coffee cake, and socializing.
Veterans from Westport’s VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 will be there too.
Westport’s World War I doughboy statue. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
A real Westporter talks about the realities of generative artificial intelligence, at the next StartUp Westport meeting.
Dan Bikel — a key member of the AI community at Meta — is the guest of the local tech entrepreneur networking group on January 11 (cocktail reception 6:30 p.m., program at 7 p.m., Westport Library).
Bikel has worked as a natural language processing researcher at IBM Research, LinkedIn and Google Research. Now an AI research scientist at Meta, he helps lead efforts on large language models.
Bikel has an AB from Harvard in classics (Ancient Greek and Latin), and earned MS and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Pennsylvania in computer science.
“Local contractors have been using the historic triangular green across from the Old Hill cemetery, on Kings Highway North, as a parking lot for the last month. Today there were 6 cars and pickups parked in the ‘park.’
“They have damaged a large area of lawn, and been compacting the soil and roots of some beautiful mature trees.
I contacted Mike West, parks superintendent for the Westport Parks & Recreation Department. He’s looking into the situation.”
Contractors’ trucks, at Old Hill green.
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The Westport Community Band takes a road trip this Sunday (December 17, 3 p.m.) — all the way to the SoNo Collection mall in Norwalk.
Their holiday concert program includes “Greensleeves,” “Let Freedom Ring,” and many classics.
Including — especially — town officials. A major project is scheduled for a hearing shortly before Christmas.
Last night, the Board of Finance spent 5 1/2 hours on its second hearing about funding for the Long Lots Elementary School building project.
No decisions were made. A funding request is expected at the board’s next meeting.
Meanwhile, the town has filed its 8-24 municipal improvement application, for the Long Lots School. It — with “the relocation of a multipurpose field” — is on the Planning & Zoning Commission agenda for Monday, December 18 (7 p.m.; Zoom, plus Optimum channel 79 and Frontier
channel 6020).
By statute, the P&Z must make a decision by January 12.
Written comments can be sent to the P&Z before the meeting: pandz@westportct.gov.
The Planning & Zoning Commission will discuss an 8-24 application for Long Lots Elementary School next Monday.
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But one agenda item is off the table — at least temporarily.
Yesterday, the Board of Selectwomen scratched a request by Parks & Recreation Department director Jen Fava to approve a license agreement between the town and Longshore Sailing School from tomorrow’s meeting agenda (Wednesday, December 13, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium).
Questions were raised over the weekend about the process by which the recommendation was made.
The Compo Acres Shopping Center community menorah was lit last night. It was the 5th day of Hanukkah.
Jo Shields Sherman reports that the Schneerson Center for Jewish Life-sponsored event included “festive, frenzied music; treats and toys, dancing, and of course dreidels for the kids.”
She was reassured by the police presence: half a dozen police cars. “I think all the blue lights added something special,” Jo says.
Menorah lighting, at Compo Acres Shopping Center. (Photo/Jo Shields Sherman)
There’s a holiday twist to the old saying “sing for your supper.”
This Saturday (December 16, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.), the Weston High School Chamber Singers entertains diners at 14 venues. They’ll sing a few songs at each.
The carolers begin their rounds at the Boathouse, then stop off at Kawa Ni, the Whelk, Tutti’s and the Black Duck. They then make their way around the train station to sing at Tarantino, Harvest, Romanacci, and Allium, before heading north to entertain guests at Zucca, Match Burger Lobster, Rizzuto’s and Viva Zapata, before ending at Dunville’s.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce sponsors the event.
This Sunday (December 17, 5 p.m.), Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church hosts its annual service, following the English tradition of “9 Lessons & Carols.”
The popular event — from the first notes of “Once in Royal David’s City” to the soaring descants of “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” — fills attendees with the spirit of Christmas.
The Parish Choir and Choristers are accompanied by Grammy-nominated harpist Kristi Shade.
Afterward, there is a reception with light, festive refreshments in Branson Hall. The public is invited.
“9 Lessons & Carols,” at Christ & Holy Trinity Church.
The star of Staples High School’s 1978 state championship team coached Clemson University to the NCAA Division I national title last night.
The 2-1 victory over Notre Dame was Noonan’s 2nd NCAA crown in 3 years. Only 2 other teams in college soccer history have accomplished that feat.
The Tigers — who finish the year 15-3-5, and also won the ACC title — allowed only 1 goal throughout the entire 5-game NCAA tournament. That was last night, by the Irish. It came late in the match on a penalty kick, when Clemson already had the game in hand.
Noonan was cheered on by family and friends, including former teammates Stuart McCarthy, Andy Meyers and Steve Hollingsworth; Dan Donovan (SHS ’82), who won a state title with Staples in 1981, and whose son Paddy (SHS ’22) is a goalkeeper on Clemson’s national champion squad; and Michael McCarthy, Stuart’s son who won his own state championship at Staples in 2009.
Congratulations, “Noons”! Well done, Tigers! Click here for last night’s highlight reel.
Celebrating with the NCAA College Cup trophy (from left): Stuart McCarthy, Andy Meyers, Mike Noonan, Paddy Donovan, Dan Donovan, Michael McCarthy.
A fascinating story in the Daily Tar Heel tells the story of the University of North Carolina’s first Black athlete.
In 1963, Edwin Okoroma left Nigeria to play varsity soccer at UNC. Life was not easy, but he persevered. After earning a medical degree at the Mayo Clinic, he returned to his native country. He practiced medicine and taught there for decades — and, now 83 years old, continues to do so.
The story caught the eye of Westporter Bud Siegel. He was Okoroma’s teammate — one of the “New England prep school kids” who, according to the Daily Tar Heel, made up most of the Carolina soccer team.
He says that the newspaper story is quite accurate — right down to its description of an incident at a Howard Johnson’s in Charlottesville, Virginia.
When a waitress told Okoroma that the restaurant did not serve Blacks, he got up to leave. The entire team followed him out the door.
“Edwin was a teammate. We supported one of our own,” Siegel says.
He adds another detail: For their 50th reunion, Siegel was tasked with trying to find former team members.
He tracked Okoroma through Saudi Arabia and to his last posting in Nigeria, but never got a response from the hospital.
“Such a shame,” Siegel says. “We would have loved to have heard Edwin’s story after UNC.”
The 1963 University of North Carolina soccer team. Edwin Okoromo is in the middle of the 2nd row. Bud Siegel is in the front row, 4th from right. Others in the photo include future Yale coach Bill Killen, and future Dartmouth coaches George Beim and Tom Griffith.
Sir Ian McKellen was at the Westport Library Sunday.
Okay, the famed English actor appeared on the large Trefz Forum screen.
But he addressed the large crowd, before the showing of “The One Note Man” — the compelling story of a musician caught between staying in his comfort zone, or stepping out and changing his life forever.
Westporter Rita Marcocci was an executive producer for the film.
Sir Ian McKellen, on the Westport Library screen. Westporter Dave Briggs, who moderated a panel discussion, is at far right.
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Speaking of the Library: There are just 13 days till Christmas.
And just 108 until VersoFest2024.
The 4th annual Westport Library music concerts/panels/workshops event kicks off April 4, with the indie rock/pop band the Lemon Twigs, and DJ Hysterica spinning all-vinyl power pop, punk, greasy soul and yé-yé.
The Lemon Twigs “dart from twee chamber pop balladry to full-on glam punk, mixing plaintive singer-songwriter confessionals with an almost Syd Barrett sense of outré pop. Their sound has said to harken back to the vocal melody of Art Garfunkel and chamber pop of Brian Wilson, and they cite among their influences Moondog and Arthur Russell.”
Westport Country Playhouse just announced 2 new program for this spring.
They’ll appeal to very diverse audiences.
“Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!” (April 27, 1 and 4 p.m.) is aimed at children in pre-K through 2nd grade. Click here for tickets, and more information.
On June 6 (8 p.m.), Tony Kushner sits for an on-stage interview, and Q-and-A. The author/playwright/ screenwriter is known for works like the Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning “Angels in America,” and film collaborations with Steven Spielberg on “Munich,” “Lincoln,” “The Fabelmans” and the 2021 remake of “West Side Story.” Click here for tickets, and more information.
Tony Kushner
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Last week, an “06880” Roundup included a photo of the Westport post office, at noon on a weekday. It was completely empty.
What a difference a few days makes. Yesterday, also at noon, the line was almost out the door:
Hopefully no one was in line to buy Christmas stamps. A sign on the wall on the left — easily missed — notes that the post office has run out of this year’s supply.
This week’s “Jazz at the Post,” featuring Antonio Hart, Michael Mossman, Greg Wall, Michael Cochrane, Yuriy Galkin and Tim Horner, is a tribute to the 1980 record “Street Singer,” a recording of a legendary 1960 performance by Jackie MacLean and Tina Brooks.
There are 2 sets this Thursday (December 14) at VFW Post 399: 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Dinner service starts at 7. The music cover is $15. Reservations are strongly suggested: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
Bernadine Ann Ripka (Bernie) died peacefully at home Friday, surrounded by her family. She was 87.
The Chicago native lived in Westport since 1973.
A cherished mother and grandmother, Bernie was a member of St. Luke Church, where she prepared and served meals to the underprivileged. She was an avid fitness walker, and appreciated fashion and interior decorating.
Her family says, “She will be remembered for her generous spirit, quick wit, high emotional intelligence, and love of people.”
Bernie is survived by her husband of 57 years, John; sons Mark (Kate), Brett (Kristen) and their children, Emma and Josephine; daughter-in-law Kim, and Kim and Greg’s daughter Abigail.
She was predeceased by her son Greg, her brother John Shuta and his wife Dorothy, and her sister Martha Neumann and her husband Frank.
Calling hours are Thursday ( December 14, 4-7 p.m., Lesko Funeral Home, Fairfield). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday (December 15, 11 a.m., Saint Luke Church), To sign Bernie’s online guestbook, click here.
And finally … in honor of this Saturday’s Saugatuck caroling, at 14 different restaurants:
(Political news? Holiday info? Random stuff you never knew you needed to know? It’s all here at “06880.” Please click here to ensure it keeps coming, 24/7/365. Thank you!)
Speaking of the Festival of Lights: The Schneerson Center for Jewish Life sponsors community menorah lighting celebrations in Westport and Weston.
The “original Westport menorah” at Compo Acres Shopping Center (Trader Joe’s/Wells Fargo parking lot) — now in its 16th year — will be lit Monday (December 11, 7 p.m.).
The day before (Sunday, December 10, 5:30 p.m.), a menorah will be lit at the Weston Shopping Center. It continues a tradition begun 20 years ago.
Both ceremonies include music, cookies, gelt and dreidels.
Westport Scout Troop is selling wreaths as a fundraiser this weekend (Saturday and Sunday, December 9-10, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., while supplies last; Saugatuck Congregational Church).
Wreaths are $30 and $45. Baked goods and hot cocoa are available too.
Funds will help projects, like the recent construction of lanternfly traps for Sherwood Island State Park. The troop also partners with Sustainable Westport each year, for a mattress recycling drive.
Everyone should be mailing gifts and cards like crazy.
But — astonishingly — this was the scene at noon yesterday, in the post office lobby:
(Photo/Dan Woog)
Come on, Westport! This is show time for our postal clerks.
It’s when they shine: helping with packages, dispensing advice, tossing all your stuff into the back to be whisked away — all with the efficiency of a thousand Rudolphs.
Our great US Postal Service men and women are ready to serve you. Give ’em the business!
With leaves off the trees, and leaf pick-up by the town almost complete, the trash that litters our town has become quite visible.
Andrew Colabella, and his faithful crew of garbage pickers, come to the rescue.
And anyone can join.
After a successful spring, they’re starting again this Sunday. Everyone is invited to meet at 10 a.m. this Sunday (December 10), at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector. They’ll work throughout the Greens Farms neighborhood.
Volunteers should wear boots, bring gloves and trash bags — and dress warmly.
For questions, or to be added to the email list, write acolabellartm4@gmail.com.
Andrew Colabella (center, front) and friends, picking up trash at the Westport train station last winter.
Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between November 29 and December 6.
A man was charged with assault, unlawful restraint, interfering with an emergency call, larceny, sale of narcotics, possession of cannabis greater than 1.5 ounces, illegal possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle, and criminal possession of a firearm.
The charges came after police responded to a report of domestic violence in a vehicle on the Sherwood Island Connector. After the assault, the man refused to let the victim leave, and prevented a 911 call.
The suspect left the area on foot. Officers located him in a vehicle traveling the wrong way on the I-95 northbound exit ramp, and initiated a traffic stop.
Westport Police also issues these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 12 citations
Failure to obey stop sign: 4
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 2
Distracted driving: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1.
A handgun was found, following a report of domestic violence.
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Speaking of crime:
Scooter Swanson — editor, and nephew of the TV dinner magnate — says his mail carrier tells him that leaving cash in the mailbox as a holiday gift (whether in an envelope or not) is subject to theft.
The carrier claims that UPS, FedEx and Amazon drivers yank out the cash cards intended for him and other US Postal Service colleagues. (This has not been verified.)
Swanson was ripped off of a $10,000 check for his credit card when it was robbed by a “correctional officer” making his nightly tour of mailboxes through neighborhoods.
Fortunately, People’s Bank reimbursed him for his loss. The Hartford also considered it personal property, and reimbursed him another $10,000.
PS: Swanson was once a federal attorney.
Think twice about leaving holiday cash for your mail carrier inside your mailbox.
Music is everywhere — including, often, the Westport Library.
On December 12 (7 p.m.), a multi-media presentation tracks the impact of music on a variety of art forms, in a range of venues.
Speaker John Brandt — a dancer, singer, actor, percussionist, PR consultant and lifelong Westporter — will highlight how music is “the soundtrack of our lives.”
The event — sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston — is free, but registration is required (click here). For further information, email jkbrandt@aol.com or call 203-246-6280.
John Brandt
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Speaking of the Library:
The second of 3 “Short Cuts Film Festival” showings is next Thursday (December 14, 7 p.m.).
Documentaries selected from the Tribeca Film Festival include:
“Then Comes the Body” by Jacob Krupnick: An unlikely ballet school outside Lagos, Nigeria, gains national attention after a video of students dancing in the rain goes viral.
“In Her Element” by Idil Ibrahim: Hip-hop artist Daisha McBride takes the traditional rock and country audience in New Orleans by storm.
“Team Dream” by Luchina Fisher: Determined friends and competitive swimmers journey to the National Senior Games.
“Deciding Vote” by Jeremy Workman & Robert J. Lyons: Fifty years ago, a now-forgotten New York assemblyman cast single tiebreaking vote that legalized abortion in New York, and la the groundwork for Roe v. Wade.
After the screenings, “Team Dream” director Fisher will discuss her film, and documentary filmmaking in general.
Short Cuts Film Festival concludes on January 18, with a program of narrative shorts.
Tickets are $26.50; click here to purchase. Films are suitable for ages 12 and up. Refreshments and popcorn will be provided.
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Mark Yurkiw — whose work has lately been heavily influenced by his Ukrainian heritage — is December’s guest exhibitor, at the Westport Book Shop.
His exhibit — “Art is Always of Its Time” — includes 12 illuminated works using large-format film transparencies of 3-D images of the 1980s and ’90s.
Yurkiw is an artist, sculptor, filmmaker, scientist, designer, creative director and consultant. His work appears in magazines, advertising, television, feature films, exhibitions and public art. It has been exhibited globally, including most recently as part of a 2-man United Nations exhibit.
A reception for Yurkiw will be held December 14 (6 to 7:30 p.m.). Reserve a spot by phone (203-349-5141) or email: bookshop@westportbooksaleventures.org.
Yurkiw’s art is on exhibit through December 31. All work is available for purchase.
The Weston Weston Family YMCA’s Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund honors its 2023 grant recipients at 5 p.m. next Tuesday (December 12) at the Y.
This year, the Fund will award $315,000 in grants to 31 organizations throughout Fairfield County. Their programs support equitable educational programs for students.
The former Staples High and Long Lots Elementary School staff member, kids’ and adults’ yoga teacher and meditation leader (at schools, the Senior Center, YMCA and Christ & Holy Trinity Church), and longtime Westport resident, is just 63 years old, and in excellent health otherwise.
Her family has a history of chronic kidney disease. Her son and daughter are not eligible to donate, because they’re at risk of the disease. Her siblings have compromised kidneys too.
A kidney from a living donor has a much higher success rate than waiting 5 to 7 years for a deceased donor kidney. At 15% function, and stage 5 kidney failure, she would have to go on dialysis before one would become available. She watched her father suffer through that.
Testing is easy. It involves an EKG, bloodwork, stress test and colonoscopy.
Even if you don’t match with Maria, your donation starts an exchange program. She could get another matching kidney, from someone who donated on another person’s behalf.
Call Yale New Haven Hospital (866-925-3897, option 1) to find out more about donation. Give Maria’s name as the recipient.
This one snuck up on us: Tonight (Friday, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.) is the annual Wakeman Town Farm holiday tree lighting.
In addition to the lights, there are home-baked cookies, treats and hot chocolate from The Porch and Sweet P Bakery — plus a bonfire, and local musicians.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Bill Constantino — a Wakeman family member — do the lighting honors.
The 2021 Wakeman Town Farm tree. (Photo/Dan Woog
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Don’t forget: Tomorrow (Saturday) is the day for the “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll! Its’ 5 to 7 p.m., up and down Main Street, plus Church Street and the Post Road.
It’s a great, family- and kids-friendly way to ring in December.
The Holiday Stroll is very family friendly. There’s a visit from Santa, costumed characters, a photo booth, holiday music from the Orphenians, caroling (beginning at Sconset Square) and more. Youngsters can drop off letters to Santa too (he’ll personally answer each one, with a self-addressed envelope).
Meanwhile, another 8 merchants have signed on. That brings the total to a whopping 60 stores, restaurants and more who will hand out goodies, offer discounts, or find other creative ways to welcome Strollers.
New additions include Cloud Nine Designers, Cold Fusion Gelato, Courtgirl, Club Sweat, Middlemarch, Moxie Salon & Beauty, Penfield Collective, and State & Liberty Clothing.
Here are the treats:
Arogya Holistic Healing & Tea: Hot tea to go
Artistex Salon & Spa: Buy 1, get 2 free; sale on service packages
Awesome Toys & Gifts: Giveaway (TBD)
Basso Restaurant & Wine Bar: 15% off for guests mentioning the “06880” Stroll (seating between 4 and 6 p.m.)
Birddogs: Free duffle bag with any 5-pair purchase
Bobbles & Lace: wine and Bobbles Bucks
Bond Vet: Swag and treats
Castle Wine & Spirits: Expert wine pairings, with hand-picked selections
Clarendon Fine Art: Bubbly, tasty treats, décor and music; framed, limited edition still life from Tim Fowler (valued at $300)
Cloud Nine Designers: Holiday beverages
Club Sweat: 3 weeks of classes for $69
Cold Fusion Gelato: Free chocolates
Cove Collective: 10% off; wine, champagne and a sweet treat
Courtgirl: 20% off storewide
Crafty Kids: TBA
Don Memo: Festive holiday beverage
Fred: Holiday treats
Gogi Steakhouse: $40 vouchers for dine-in customers
Gordon Fine Arts: Light hospitality and hot mulled cider
Hummingbird Healing Center: Discounted Harmonic Egg session of $99.99; free gift to everyone visiting the center on the 2nd floor
J. Crew: Free pair of cashmere socks, and discount of 15% with any purchase of $125 or more; free tee with every 2 purchased; free tech hat with every 3 purchased; long-sleeve tee or water bottle with every 4
Jeweled Coquette: 14K gold “express” permanent bracelet for $100; hot cocoa bar
Johnny Was: GWP while supplies last; raffle to win a $250 gift card
Kerri Rosenthal: 20% of all KR products; rosé and Prosecco
La Plage: 10% off when you mention the Stroll
Le Rouge Artisan: White chocolate raspberry hot chocolate
Lomito: Peruvian-style hot chocolate with Peruvian paneton or rotisserie chicken mini-sandwich
Maxine Salon & Beauty: $20 voucher for any service (except blowouts, men’s/kids and retail); 20% off R & Co. retail products; 10% off all other retail products
Mexicue: Happy hour drinks: house margarita $8.50; wine by the glass $8; beer $5
Middlemarch: Raffle for $250 gift card, with purchase
Naturino Kids Shoes & More: 25% off single item all day long
Nômade: Firepit to make your own s’mores
Offline by Aerie: 30% off select items; free yoga mat or water bottle with a booked appointment
Party Harty: 10% of all Westport-related merchandise
Penfield Collective: Prosecco
Rhone: Holiday cheer, wellness and gift giving
Rive Bistro: Festive cocktail
Ron Lakek Gallery: 20% off all framed photos, plus wine and chocolate
Rowan: Free pair of earrings with purchase of $75 or more
Savvy + Grace: A “north Pole” mailbox for kids’ letters to Santa; holiday cookies
Scout & Molly’s: 20% off total purchase
Serendipity Labs: Complimentary week of co-working
Sorelle Gallery: 20% off in store, all day
South Moon Under: 20% off when you spend $100 or more
State & Liberty Clothing: 10-15% off bulk purchases of shirts and pants
Stretch Zone: Stretches and free stretch vouchers
The Tailored Home & Studio Café: Complimentary Santa’s cookies and hot chocolate; 50% off on all pillows
Town of Weston Ukraine Sister City Partnership: Apple cider, water, bracelets, ornaments
Toy Post: Free giveaway to children
Vince: 15% off full price merchandise when you sign up for texts
Vivid Cottage: 5 free holiday cards with purchase
Walrus Alley: Happy hour prices
WEST: $50 gift card for holiday shopping, through December 31
West/Out East: Prosecco and presents
Westport Book Shop: free gift with purchase, and coupon valid through December 31
Westport Country Playhouse: Buy 1 ticket for “A Sherwood Carol,” get 1 free (December 22 2 p.m. or December 23 7 p.m. shows)
Whip Salon: $10 gift card for stopping to say hi (18 and over); holiday treats
Williams Sonoma: Hot apple cider and peppermint bark
Winfield Street Coffee: $3 hot chocolates with candy canes
Merchants and restaurants wishing to participate should click here, to fill out an online form.
There will be vendor booths too, including Tend, Stretch Zone, SugarKrisp and Westport is the Bestport. Non-profit booths like Homes with Hope and MOSS will also be in attendance. Sponsors David Adams Realty and SCA Crowley make it all possible.
A serious Santa conversation, at last year’s Stroll. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Stew Leonard’s community menorah lighting celebration is next Thursday (December 7, 5 p.m.).
It’s the 32nd annual family-friendly event for “the world’s largest dairy store,” which began life as a Clover Farms milk vending machine in Saugatuck.
Rabbi Yehoshua Hecht of Beth Israel Chabad will light an 18-foot menorah, followed by live music, holiday songs and pre-packaged kosher refreshments. Hot potato latkes, dreidels and chocolate gelt will be distributed to all.
Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling and Westport dignitaries will be on hand for Fairfield County’s largest menorah lighting. .
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Speaking still of the holidays: Westport Country Playhouse is a collection site for Norwalk Toys for Tots and Westport Homes with Hope food pantry during its December lineup of shows, including “The Lightning Thief” on December 2, the “Warrior Class,” Script in Hand play reading December 4, “A Sherlock Carol” December 19-23, and “The Nutcracker” December 8-9.
But you don’t have to see a show to help. Items for the 2 charities may be dropped in collection boxes in the Playhouse lobby any time the box office is open (Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m.), as well as performance times.
For Norwalk Toys for Tots, new, unwrapped toys and books for children will be collected through December 14. Items sought include books for all ages in Spanish and Haitian Creole, and toys for newborns through age 18.
For the Homes with Hope food pantry, items may be dropped off in the Playhouse lobby during the run of “A Sherlock Carol,” Tuesday, December 19 through Saturday, December 23. Items needed include canned tuna, chicken, meat; canned vegetables and fruit; hot and cold cereal; canned soup, beef stew, chili; peanut butter and jelly; pasta sauce; mayonnaise; rice (small bags or boxes); protein and granola bars; and crackers.
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Production began this week on “The Apprentice.”
The film with the familiar name is “an exploration of power and ambition, set in a world of corruption and deceit.” It explores Donald Trump’s efforts to build his real estate business in New York in the ’70s and ’80s, along with his relationship with attorney Roy Cohn.
Deadline says, “Filled with larger than life characters, it reveals the moral and human cost of a culture defined by winners and losers.”
The Westport connection: “The Apprentice” was written by Gabe Sherman. He went to Kings Highway Elementary and Bedford Middle School, then Staples High for one year before transferring (in part for skiing) to the Holderness School in New Hampshire.
Sherman graduated from Middlebury College in 2001. His bestseller “The Loudest Voice in the Room” inspired Showtime’s miniseries “The Loudest Voice,” starring Russell Crowe as Fox News founder Roger Ailes.
Earthplace’s winter program guide is online. It includes information on youth and teen programs, drop-in activities, family and adult events, and day and summer camps.
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