Tag Archives: Jay Norris

Roundup: Cooling Stations, Shonda Rhimes, Charlie Scott …

Posted on June 18, 2024 | 4 comments

With temperatures expected to push past 90 all week, Governor Lamont has activated Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol. It’s in effect through noon on Sunday.

Several cooling centers are open in Westport:

  • Senior Center (21 Imperial Avenue): Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • MoCA CT (19 Newtown Turnpike): Thursday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.
  • Westport Library (20 Jesup Road): Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
  • Westport Weston Family YMCA (14 Allen Raymond Lane): Tuesday through Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Westport Museum for History & Culture (25 Avery Place): Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Speaking of heat: The Westport Library was the hot place to be last night.

Shonda Rhimes introduced — and showed — her film, “Black Barbie.”

The award-winning producer, Shondaland visionary and Westport resident then took questions from the of-course-SRO audience.

“Black Barbie” debuts on Netflix this Wednesday (Juneteenth). It tells the story of the 3 Black women at Mattel who were determined to create a doll that looked like them, and the impact that had on the Barbie brand.

Among her most memorable lines, regarding Black dolls and representation: “You cannot be what you cannot see.”

Shonda Rhimes (right), in conversation with Bernicestine McLeod Bailey at the Westport Library. (Photo/Stephanie Mastocciolo)

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Oyster harvesting is back on Sherwood Mill Pond.

This was the busy action yesterday:

(Photo/William Weiss)

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Chris Wood writes: “Sadly, I heard that the ‘white barn’ at Sherwood Island State Park will be demolished.

“I spent many years working in and around it in the 1960s and ’70s. I even lived in it one summer.

“It is believed to be the former stables for the Sherwood estate — just down from the ‘stone barn,’ which was the carriage barn.”

Sherwood Island “white barn.” (Photo/Chris Wood)

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Charlie Scott is a Staples High School legend.

During his 4 years, the recently graduated senior played soccer, ran cross country and track, and announced dozens of athletic contests on WWPT-FM.

But he is best known for his videos.

Charlie shot them himself (sometimes via drone). Then he edited them into highlight reels, for games and entire seasons. He posted them as game-day previews. He flooded social media with his “Charlie 33 Prod” productions.

Before he heads of to Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Communications — where he will take his prodigious talent to even higher stratospheres — Charlie posted one last reel.

He prefaced it in his typically humble fashion: “Thank you Staples Athletics for an incredible 2 years of filming games. My edits are only as good as the players that are in them, so I truly couldn’t have done it without my fellow Wreckers.”

Congratulations, and thank you, Charlie. And now, “06880”: Click below, to enjoy the show!

 

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Speaking of sports: Kyle Martino is a Big Name in the soccer world.

In 1999, the Staples High School star was named Gatorade National Player of the Year.

He went on to play in MLS for Columbus and Chicago, then with the US national team. He was an analyst for the Premier League on NBC Sports, and now covers the national teams for Turner Sports.

He ran for US Soccer president, developed an innovative goal that turns basketball courts into small-sided fields, and has reached out to underserved communities through the Over Under Initiative.

His entire career has been about connecting people through the game he loves.

Martino’s newest venture is No One Home. Begun as a pop-up for the 2022 and ’23 men’s and women’s World Cups, and now remodeled, it’s now hidden in plain sight behind a row of avocado distributors at 141 Chrystie Street in Manhattan’s historic Bowery district

No One Home is a soccer and social club. The ground floor features a large theater-style viewing area, with a massive 172-inch LED screen.

The second floor is a high-end membership lounge for New York’s most passionate soccer fans.

Martino’s goal (ho ho) is to unite the soccer, fashion, art, food and drink communities through a shared love of the sport and culture.

The official opening is Thursday (June 20), with 3 big matches: The European Championship’s Denmark vs. England (noon) and Spain vs. Italy (3 p.m.), followed by Copa América’s Argentina vs. Canada (8 p.m.).

Click here for more information, and reservations. Click here for the Instagram (@noonehome141).

Kyle Martino (far right) at his pop-up, as fans watched the 2022 World Cup (left).

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Here’s another great idea.

Content Studio is a cool new — well, concept and studio, for podcasts and more — in the former quick mart at 20 Saugatuck Avenue (next to the Goddard School, and opposite Dunville’s).

This Wednesday (June 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.), Jay Norris hosts a preview. There will be light bites, networking, and — because of the date — a chance to learn a bit more about Juneteenth.

Click here to RSVP. The deadline is 5 p.m. today (Tuesday).

Jay Norris at Content Studio.

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The public is invited to the promotion ceremony of Nick Marsan.

Westport’s deputy fire chief is officially installed as Fire Department chief on Monday, July 1 (3:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

Soon-to-be Fire Chief Nick Marsan.

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Happy Pollinator Week!

Aspetuck Land Trust celebrates this Friday (June 21, noon; Zoom) with a “Lunch & Learn.” The topic is how to grow pollinator gardens in containers anywhere.

Kim Eierman will discuss the best choices of pollinator-friendly native plants that grow in containers, and the important pollinators — butterflies, beneficial insects, hummingbirds and more — they support.

Members are free; non-members pay $10. For more details and to register, click here.

Busy-as-a-bee pollinator.

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Wakeman Town Farm’s Family Fun Day returns July 13.

The biggest summer event offers kids’ farm crafts and games; visits with the animals; a scavenger hunt, and bubble show; music, and fun summer foods.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Laura Von Stein — an actor, comedian, 1-woman entertainer and 1983 Staples High School graduate — died peacefully on May 11 in Ridgefield, after a brief battle with colon cancer. She was 58.

Laura was part of Staples Players. She graduated Phi Kappa Phi from the University of Bridgeport, where she received a performing arts scholarship. Laura also studied classical acting at Marymount International School under the auspices of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.

Laura was a member of Actors’ Equity. Her patient waits at stage doors helped her build an impressive collection of signed Playbills.

Laura also accumulated an impressive library, largely from the annual Pequot Library book sale.

She is survived by her mother, Eleanor Von Stein of Westport and Trumbull; brother Robert Von Stein (Linda Guliuzza) of Trumbull and Massachusetts; nephews Rob (Molly) of Massachusetts, Mike (Laura) of Rhode Island and Scott (Paul) of Massachusetts, and many cousins. Laura was predeceased by her father Robert in 2019.

Laura is also survived by her extended family, including Roger Wolfe; Christine O’Leary; Duane, Gayle, Mike and Stephen Lovello; Jill Lovello and Charlie Sullivan, Christine Lovello, and Tom, Susan, Matt, Sam and Rae Iacovacci, along with many friends from the comedy and theater world.

Laura’s wish is for everyone to support theaters, encourage actors of all ages to keep going, read a good book and enjoy a movie with lots of popcorn. Laura’s life will be celebrated at 5 p.m. on September 15 at The Ridgefield Playhouse.

Laura Von Stein

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The water is still a bit chilly.

But  — as this “Westport … Naturally” photo shows — that doesn’t stop at least one swimmer.

And one dog paddler.

(Photo/Jim Hood)

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And finally … Mark James — described by the New York Times as “a genre-defying, Grammy Award-winning songwriter,” died on Saturday in Nashville. He was 83. Click here for a full obituary.

Among his works:

(Sure, it will be hot this week. But “06880” is the coolest place around. If you enjoy being part of our online community, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Westport Burgers, Weston Budget …

Posted on April 1, 2024 | 5 comments

Burger King is long gone from Westport. (Spoiler alert: It’s the Starbucks drive-thru.)

But now Matthew Mandell can call himself our new Burger King.

As executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, he oversees events like The Great Burger Contest. Twenty restaurants competed, in 7 categories.

But Matthew didn’t just sit in his office. He went whole hog.

He visited all 20 restaurants, during the 31 days of March. He ate a burger at every one (and tons of fries, too).

Matthew Mandell: 20 burgers in 31 days.

Voting ended at midnight last night. Results will be announced soon.

We’ll also announce how Matthew is feeling.

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Jay Norris is a busy man.

The Westport resident is co-founder and CEO of Guesst, the real estate and restaurant leasing software platform. He also co-founded BlackLight, the world’s first search engine for Black-owned businesses nationwide.

In addition, he helped start Startup Westport, the public/private partnership whose goal is to make our town the tech entrepreneurial capital of Connecticut. He founded Westport10, the social and networking organization for Black men and their families.

And he’s a board member of both the Westport Library, and the Westport Weston Family YMCA. Oh, yeah: He also volunteers as a mentor with A Better Chance of Westport.

Now he’s added a new gig.

Jay was just named co-chair of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. Focusing on innovation and technology, he’ll work to connect tech leaders in New York, and help them come up with solutions for the city and their small-to-medium- sized businesses.

Congratulations, Jay!

Jay Norris

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In this week’s “What’s Next in Weston” podcast, First Selectwoman Sam Nestor details the proposed FY 2024-25 Weston town budget.

Click below, for the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston feature:

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Yesterday’s Easter sunrise service warmed the hearts of all who headed to somewhat chilly Compo Beach.

Among the scenes:

(Photos/Rick Benson)

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No, this is not an April Fool’s joke.

The Westport Fire Department is not pretending to fill Ned Dimes Marina with water.

They were just down at Compo this weekend, testing out their hoses.

Looks like they work!

(Photo/Lisa Gold)

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Sherwood Island State Park is the scene for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

In just a few short weeks, the same spot will be packed with people.

Enjoy the serenity while you can.

(Photo/Susan Leone)

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And finally … happy April 1!

(Don’t be fooled: Information is not free. “06880” relies on reader support. We’re serious! Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you.)

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Roundup: EV Charging Fees, Diverse Entrepreneurs, Staples Basketball …

Posted on February 28, 2024 | 4 comments

The free ride is over.

Beginning March 11, the town will charge drivers at electric vehicle charging stations on town-owned and operated property.

Officials say the plan is competitive with other local charging stations, while also offering “a sustainable and cost-effective option for EV owners.”

Stations at Town Hall, the Westport Library, the Baldwin Lot, Senior Center and Fire Department headquarters will charge 35 cents per kilowatt hour for the first 3 hours.

After a 15-minute grace period, users will be charged an idling fee of $10 an hour. The goal is to discourage drivers from occupying spaces after they have charged their vehicles.

Stations at Saugatuck and Greens Farms railroad stations will also charge 35 cents per kwh. However, there is no idling fee, because vehicle owners use the station for commuting (and pay a railroad parking permit fee as well).

Payment may be made through QR codes on the charging unit, or through a 3rd-party app used for EV charging.

EV charges in the Baldwin lot, after installation last year. They were not yet in use, because they had not been turned on.

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Last night, News12 Connecticut ran an excellent story on tomorrow night’s event “Past, Present and Future Opportunities for Diverse Entrepreneurs” (February 29, 6 p.m., Westport Library).

Sponsored by StartUp Westport and Westport 10 — and coming on the heels of allegations of racism in town, and at the end of Black History Month — the timing is fortuitous.

Jay Norris — a co-founder of both organizations (StartUp Westport is aimed at creating a tech entrepreneurial hub here; Westport 10 is a networking and social group for Black men and their families — told News 12: “The goal is diverse entrepreneurship. We believe we’re all stronger together. We need to acknowledge ech other. We need to support each other’s business.”

He cited martin Luther King’s inspiration — and his focus on a “diverse economic perspective,” which remains unreached.

Tomorrow’s event — moderated by MSNBC host and Westport resident Craig Melvin — will be followed by a cocktail reception. Click here for more information, and to register. Click here for the full News12 story, including video of Norris’ interview.

Screen shot of Jay Norris, from News12 interview.

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Everyone thought Ridgefield — the #1 seed in the boys basketball FCIAC tournament), ranked #2 in the state, and unbeaten in league play this year — would roll to their 4th FCIAC championship in 6 years last night.

Everyone except Staples.

The Wreckers got a highlight reel performance from sophomore Sam Clachko — 40 points, including 7 3-pointers and 11 of 12 foul shots — en route to a 73-57 demolition of the Tigers, in last night’s semifinal at Wilton High School.

The 4th-seeded Stapleites advance to tomorrow night’s final. They take on #2 Trumbull at 7 p.m., again at Wilton. It will be the Wreckers’ 2nd straight FCIAC final appearance, under 2nd-year coach Dave Goldshore.

The Westporters dropped a tough 48-46 decision to Ridgefield during the regular season. But they battled evenly in the first half, then pulled away in the second.

Junior Adam Udell added 13 points, in the all-around team effort.

The 2023-24 Staples boys basketball team.

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Bill Vornkahl — the Korean War veteran and for over 50 years the organizer and heart of Westport’s Memorial Day parade, who died last month — will be honored this Saturday (March 2, 1:30 p.m.) at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.

The Bill Vornkahl Citation of Service will be presented to his family. The public is invited.

The event was coordinated by Westport’s state legislators Dominique Johnson, Jonathan Steinberg and Ceci Mahar, and the Board of Selectwomen.

Bill Vornkahl (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

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The New York Times reports:

A former New York University administrator admitted on Tuesday to spending $80,000 in public money meant for minority- and women-owned businesses on a swimming pool at her Connecticut home as part of a broader $3.5 million fraud she orchestrated, officials said.

The former administrator, Cindy Tappe, made the admission while pleading guilty to second-degree grand larceny, court records show. Under a plea agreement with the Manhattan district attorney’s office, she will be sentenced to five years’ probation and must pay $663,209 in restitution to cover the full sum of money she diverted for personal expenses.

Tappe, 57, lives in Westport, the Times says.

Ms. Tappe’s “fraudulent actions not only threatened to affect the quality of education for students with disabilities and multilingual students, but denied our city’s minority- and women-owned business enterprises a chance to fairly compete for funding,” Alvin L. Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, said in a statement.

Deborah Colson, Ms. Tappe’s lawyer, said in a statement that her client “strongly regrets her misconduct.”

Click here for the full story. (Hat tip: Scott Brodie)

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A few tickets are still available for Bedford Acting Group’s production of “The Lion King Jr.”

The curtain rises at 7 p.m. on March 15. Additional shows are set for March 16 (3 and 7 p.m.), and March 17 (3 p.m.).Click here for tickets, cast lists and more information.

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Speaking of entertainment: Staples High School 2014 graduate Rachel Rose’s new single and Tiny Desk video is now on YouTube.

The University of Texas alum also appears at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas next month.

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Calling all chamber music fans!

This Sunday (March 3, 4 p.m.), the United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston hosts a chamber music vespers service. It includes a string quartet, poetry and prayer, plus refreshments and conversation. The public is invited.

The church invites donations of non-perishable food items for Summerfield UMC Light on the Hill in Bridgeport.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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High winds are predicted today.

Will they topple this utility pole on Compo Road South, a few yards from the Post Road?

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

Mark Mathias writes: “This does not look safe. It’s as if someone said, “let’s put this pole in the street and stack it on some 4x4s. What could go wrong?”

It seems, he says, “like a YouTube failure video waiting to happen.”

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The sun may not shine today.

But our “Westport … Naturally” photo — taken yesterday on Myrtle Avenue by Molly Alger — should bring a warm smile to everyone.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

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And finally … I never heard of Roni Stoneman, or the Stoneman Family. I never watched “Hee Haw,” where she played banjo and (apparently) had her biggest success.

But the former member of the “renowned Appalachian string band” had quite a career. She died Thursday in Tennessee, at 85. Click here for a full obituary.

(Whether or not you’ve got an electric vehicle, “06880” hopes you will “charge” a contribution to your hyper-local blog. Or send a check. Please click here for options to support our work. Thanks!)

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Roundup: Bravo Westport, PAL Hoops, Black Business …

Posted on August 15, 2023 | 9 comments

“Real Housewives of New York” star and “Apprentice: Martha Stewart” runner-up Bethenny Frankel is pitching Bravo on a new show.

According to the New York Post‘s Page 6, it “would follow rich Connecticut families — including, a source pointedly notes, their children.”

Sources tell “06880” that potential stars could include 2 Westporters: actress/blogger Eva Amurri, and comedian Courtney Davis, controversial MC of this past spring’s Fashionably Westport benefit.

Despite several issues, Page 6 says that Bravo remains “theoretically interested in the comings and goings of Westport’s most delectably nepo-licious residents.”

Sources say the show has already begun filming, though that has not been confirmed.

Eva Amurri

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After 24 years, Westport PAL basketball has a new president.

Jordan Schur — a former Staples High School Class of 2001 hoops and soccer star — will continue the program that longtime head Howie Friedman brought to great heights.

Schur’s plans include off-season programs, and increased youth engagement and synergy between high school and youth players.

To start, PAL is endorsing fall clinics for boys and girls in grades 3 to 8. Click here for details, and follow on Instagram: westport_palhoops.

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August is National Black Business Month.

Jay Norris — the Westport entrepreneur and CEO of Guesst, the creative leasing platform — shared his insights into his work with News12 Connecticut. Click here for his interview.

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Picnic on the 4th of July!

No, that’s not a late announcement (or a very early one).

It’s the name of the band providing entertainment this Friday (August 18, 6 to 9 p.m.), as part of the Westport Downtown Association’s “Summer Music on Church Lane” series.

The string band — which specializes in traditional American roots and bluegrass, with a dose of rock, folk, jazz and blues — features guitars, banjo, harmonica, bass and vocals.

They’ve been together 10 years, playing bluegrass festivals, farmers’ markets, porch fests and private events.

Plus — now — the streets of Westport.

 Picnic on the 4th of July (from left): Martin Daniels, Louis Fuertes, Pat Blaufuss, Jeff Carroll. (Photo/Amy Daniels)

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Westport firefighter Peter Nichio is also a veteran. After serving in Afghanistan, returned home from Afghanistan with severe Post-Traumatic Stress Injury.

He has amazing resilience. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy has helped him deal with traumatic situations on the job.

Peter is the perfect choice as MC and auctioneer for the Fairfield County Trauma Response Team’s first-ever benefit.

“Beyond the Call: Supporting the Mental Health of First Responders” is set for New Canaan’s Waveny House on October 12 (6:30 p.m.).

There’s the usual food and drink. But attendees can also chat with public safety professionals from fire, law enforcement, EMS and animal control.

Trauma therapists will answer question, and describe the intersection of trauma therapy and emergency response.

Keynote speaker and professional athlete Todd Blyleven — son of Hall of Fame pitcher Bert Blyleven — will discuss his experience as a survivor of the 2017 Las Vegas shooting that killed 60 people, and injured more than 400.

Blyleven will also moderate a panel of local first responders.

Click here for tickets and more information on the event. Questions? Email Linda Rost: lrost0411@gmail.com.

 

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Eileen Ivers brought her electric fiddle to the Levitt Pavilion Sunday night.

She wowed the crowd — including 3-year-old Mira Wolfe.

Can you say “mesmerized”?!

(Photo/Phil Keane; hat tip/Nikki Gorman)

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We’ve run several photos of bees, in our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

And we’ve run many pictures of flowers.

This time, they’re together. Tracy Porosoff sent along this vibrant image:

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … on this day in 1939, “The Wizard of Oz” premiered at Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Los Angeles.

(“06880” is your place to read all about Westport — from our “nepo-licious” neighbors to our firefighting heroes and entrepreneurs. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!

 

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Posted in Children, Downtown, Entertainment, Sports

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Roundup: Rainbow, Bees & Butterflies, Restaurants …

Posted on July 30, 2023 | 4 comments

The storm that blew through Westport yesterday evening brought little rain, but strong winds.

They were brief — but enough to bring down tree limbs, and cause power outages in scattered neighborhoods.

They also produced a nice rainbow. “06880” readers all around town sent images. This one, by Theresa Anovick, captured it best:

(Photo/Theresa Anovick)

Meanwhile, Eric Bosch snapped this dramatic post-rain view …

(Photo/Eric Bosch)

… and a few yards away, so did Richard Abramowitz:

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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Scott Smith is one of many Westport gardeners and environmentalists who has observed something troubling outdoors. He writes:

“Where are the bees? The butterflies?

“The sunflowers in my garden are 10 feet tall. The purple coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, milkweed and other native flowers and bushes are blooming (at least the ones the deer don’t nibble).

“Yet I find our pollinator friends are few and far between. At least in my yard.

“It’s been a good summer for fireflies, the wasps are out and about, and with the recent rains the mosquitoes are ascendant. But where are the pollinators?

“I’ve not sprayed pesticides or any chemicals on my property for years, nor do most of my neighbors. So let me ask my fellow 06880 gardeners and backyard apiarists: Can you send some bees and butterflies my way?”

Scott Smith’s garden is beautiful — but bee- and butterfly-less.

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Westport resident Jay Norris and chef/restaurateur/TV personality Marcus Samuelsson are breaking bread together.

The noted entrepreneurs have partnered to offer performance-based leases to minority-owned food businesses.

Norris is CEO of Guesst Software. Crain’s New York Business says the company — which facilitates short-term retail leases in dozens of the country’s leading malls — will now give “artisanal, mom-and-pop restaurants access to ‘A+’ locations–without the upfront cost or standard 15-year lease.”

For example, UrbanSpace — which runs food halls through New York City — will commit 10 spaces at their Bryant Park holiday market to qualified minority-owned businesses who set up leases through Guesst. Norris says that allows them to “explore the world” beyond their own neighborhoods.

Samuelsson told Crain’s that large restaurants like his usually sign 15-year leases. His partnership with Norris allows landlords to be flexible and patient with rents.

Norris plan to launch a “women’s merchant movement” in the fourth quarter. His goal is to “give a voice to voiceless minority business owners,” no matter who or where they are.

To read the full Crain’s story (behind a paywall), click here.

Jay Norris (left) and Marcus Samuelsson,

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For several years, Saugatuck Shores residents have worried about speeding  on their narrow streets.

After pursuing conventional means of trying to control the problem did not help, residents began a friendly “slow down” sign campaign.

Two slogans were chosen. Two young children — 4-year- old Valery Kolotnikova and 5-year-old Anya Jain — contributed artwork.

Miggs Burroughs — Westport’s very talented, very generous graphic artist — pulled together the text and illustrations.

The result: beautiful bespoke signs that appear to be helping.

To order a sign, email Liz Milwe: lizmilwe@gmail.com

Valery and Anya, and their sign.

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A sobering opinion piece in today’s New York Times, exploring the sad state of public swimming lessons and pools in the United States — leading to 11 drowning deaths a day across the country — does mention several bright spots.

Including Westport.

The final 2 paragraphs of Mara Gay’s piece, “When It Comes to Swimming, ‘Why Have Americans Been Left on Their Own?'” read:

Coral Gables, Fla., has a colossal, stone-ringed public pool known as the Venetian, complete with waterfalls and grottoes. Austin, Texas, boasts a three-acre public pool fed by underground springs. Ann Arbor, Mich., has public pools with giant water slides. In 1960 the elegant Connecticut shore town of Westport bought the deed to a country club. Residents there swim in a public pool that sits beside the shimmering waters of the Long Island Sound.

Every American deserves the chance to swim somewhere just as nice.

(Hat tip: Robin Jaffee Frank)

Longshore pool (Photo/Pamela Einarsen)

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Tom Kretsch provides today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, with this comment:

:A little touch of color on our beautiful river, the Saugatuck. A river runs through us, and little treasures abound.”

(Photo/Tom Kretsch)

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And finally … on this date in 1975, Teamster leader Jimmy Hoffa disappeared from the parking lot of a Detroit-area restaurant. He was never seen again.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to support us with a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Free Trees, Open Doors, Police Arrests …

Posted on April 27, 2023 | 12 comments

Get your seeds!

The Westport Tree Board celebrates Arbor Day with a tree seedling giveaway tomorrow (Friday, April 28, 3 to 5 p.m., rear of Town Hall near the softball field).

The seedlings come with planting instructions for school-age children and residents of Westport on a first-come, first-serve basis. They’re donated by Bartlett Tree Service.

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A reader who works on Riverside Avenue writes: “A stroll down Main Street recently, on an exceptionally warm day, spurred me into action.

Almost every door to every retail establishment was propped open, air conditioning the outdoors. And as always (I walk 2-3 miles a day in town) I passed many parked cars, engines idling with owners sitting inside, engrossed mostly in cell phones.

I think emissions could be curtailed significantly 2 ways:
• A reduction of idling vehicles (epidemic even during reasonable weather)
• Stores not opening their doors to attract people (heating the outside in cold weather, cooling it in hot),

Legislatively, these things could take much longer than we have to reduce our emissions and our warming climate.

What if they both were tackled as PSAs? Part education via some easily digestible data, and part message along the lines of “What can I do?” Perhaps a campaign akin to the crying Native American of our childhood, the icon for the anti-pollution campaign that was very effective in cleaning up our littered roadways.

A national effort is needed. Perhaps we here can take a leadership position.

This photo ran on “06880” in 2012. More than a decade later, little has changed.

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Westport Police were busy recently.

The Staples High School school resource officer was alerted to an irate parent in the front lobby. As the SRO approached the lobby he heard a man screaming at school staff. The man became increasingly agitated, about a custody issue. A staff member had to put their hand up in a defensive move.

The SRO could not de-escalate the situation, but moved the conversation outside The man continued to act aggressively, and refused to obey lawful orders from the SRO. He was arrested, and charged with criminal trespass, interfering/resisting an officer, and breach of peace.

Another shoplifting incident at Ulta Beauty led to the arrest of 4 people, for larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, and illegal possession of a shoplifting device.

Westport Police also issued a number of citations, from April 19-26:

  • Operating a motor vehicle with a telephone, electronic device or texting: 16 citations
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 8
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 8
  • Unreasonable speed: 6
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 6
  • Improper use of marker: 6
  • Distracted driving, not cell: 5
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 5
  • Failure to comply with state traffic regulations: 4
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 3
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Improper use of high beams: 1
  • Violation of readable plates: 1
  • Illegal tint: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Failure to carry license: 1.

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A year ago, “06880” reported on Westport10: the social and networking group for Black men in town and their families.

The other day, News12 Connecticut picked up the story, with an insightful interview with founder Jay Norris.

He talked about the benefits and opportunities for the organization — now “Westport 100,” as it’s grown from 4 men to 55, plus their spouses and children — for the members, and all of Westport.

Click here for the full interview.

A recent Westport 100 lunch at Hudson Malone.

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The opening of the Westport Woman’s Club’s 3-day art show will be special.

On May 5 (5-7 p.m.), Staples seniors Chloe Hackett and Mia Vindiola will be awarded scholarships of $10,000 each. The 2 very talented students plan to pursue arts careers — thanks in large part to the grants from the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.

The scholarships will be presented by Miggs Burroughs of the DFCAC, and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker. The scholarship project was a collaborative effort with “06880.”

The show continues May 6 and 7 (2 to 5 p.m.). Featured artists include Nina Bentley, Ola Bossin, Michael Brennecke, Ellen Ehli, Susan Fehlinger, Hernan Garcia, Erszebet Laurinyecz, Katya Lebrija, Diane Pollack, Tina Puckett, Jon Puzzuoli, Dorothy Robertshaw, Katherine Ross, Agata Tria and Kathleen Rampe.

All art will be on sale.

Mia Vindiola and Chloe Hackett.

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Several Staples student journalists with Inklings were honored recently by the Connecticut Press Club, as winners of their High School Communications Contest.

Finnegan Courtney cleaned up, taking 1st, 2nd and 3rd places for Best Newscast (“On the Wreckord,” episodes 6, 5 and 3 respectively.

Also taking 1st: Genevieve Frucht (Feature Story, for “Logan Goodman ’24 Incorporates Love for Sneakers, Art into Business”), Anna Diorio (Opinion, “The Damaging Effects of ‘I’m Just Teasing'”), and Talia Moskowitz (Sports, “Report Highlights Impact of Wealth Inequality on State Championships in Connecticut”).

Caroline Zajac was 3rd in the News Story contest, for “Connecticut Swatting Incident Highlights Growing National Problem.”

Samantha Sandrew placed 3rd for Video Feature Story, for “Sneakerheads of Staples.” Anna Diorio earned honorable mention in the category, for “The Power of a Good Book: A Discussion with Staples’ Librarians.”

Congratulations to all of Staples’ superb journalists!

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Speaking still of Staples:

The boys lacrosse team’s annual “Sticks for Soldiers” event is this Saturday (12:30 p.m., Paul Lane Field).

The ceremony — before the 1 p.m. game against Greenwich — highlights the service and sacrifice made by our military. Funds raised support wounded veterans and their families.

A minimum donation of $5 is suggested. For more information and to donate, click here or email edward.iannone@gmail.com.

Staples lacrosse players have worn special jerseys to honor “Sticks for Soldiers.”

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Longtime Westporter Daisy McCann died last Friday, surrounded by her family. She was 98 years old.

Her family says, “She lived a long and wonderful life, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith and a commitment to giving back to her community.”

Daisy was born in New York City on May 31, 1924. She earned a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Hunter College.

After World War II she married Navy veteran Hugh (Bud) McCann. They moved to Westport in 1959, where all 6 of their children lived and attended school: Hugh Jr. (Sarah) of Venice, Florida; Marguerite Francis of New London, New Hampshire; Tom (Mary Jo) of Nantucket, Massachusetts; Rosemary Semanski (Paul) of West Hartford; Tim (Tricia) of Easton, and Rich Tina) of Darien. Daisy is also survived by her grandchildren Katie, Scott, Kristen, Brittany, Shana, Kyle, Conor, Erin, Ali, Jack and Colin, and 7 great-grandchildren. Her family says, “She loved shopping for all of the wee ones in her extended family, and nothing brought a smile to her face more than their visits.”

She was predeceased by her husband.

Daisy was a trustee at St. Luke Parish, where she organized ladies’ luncheons for several decades and hosted generations of priests at her holiday parties. “She loved to feed people; it was her love language, whether at the church, in her home, or at the Norwalk Soup Kitchen.” In recent years, attending St. Luke’s regularly became more challenging, yet she never missed her daily digital Mass.

The family will receive friends tomorrow (Friday, April 28, 4-7 p.m., Shaughnessey Banks Funeral Home, 50 Reef Road, Fairfield). A Requiem Mass will be held Saturday (10 a.m., St. Luke). Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Near & Far Aid in memory of Daisy McCann at www.nearandfaraid.org (select donate); P.O. Box 717, Southport, CT 06890 (note honoree’s name in memo).

Daisy McCann

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A Burritt’s Landing bald eagle poses for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Dan Vener)

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And finally … on this day in 1981, Xerox PARC introduced the computer mouse.

(You never know what you’ll find on “06880,” right? Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Roundup: The Porch, Club 203, Westport 100 …

Posted on February 5, 2023 | 5 comments

Bitter temperatures, then quick warming yesterday caused a frozen pipe to burst during lunch at The Porch @ Christie’s.

A screen shot from a video by Dylan Curran (below) shows water cascading between 2 light fixtures, down the front of a display case, and into one of several trash cans.

But nothing stops Andrea and Bill Pecoriello. The owners worked their magic tirelessly, and opened again this morning.

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Speaking of The Porch:

The popular Cross Highway deli/restaurant is the site of the next Club 203 party. Westport’s great social group for adults with disabilities celebrates St. Patrick’s Day there the night before: March 16, 7 p.m.

Westport Country Playhouse was the scene of the club’s recent Valentine’s dance party. Over 120 guests and a dozen volunteers enjoyed stacks of heart-shaped  pizzas donated by Planet Pizza, sweetheart cookies courtesy of Stew Leonard’s and The Pantry, and a jewelry-making and artful “live love” project sponsored by MoCA of Westport.

Click here for more information on Club 203, and the St. Paddy’s Day social.

Rockin’ Club 203’s Valentine’s dance, at Westport Country Playhouse.

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Yesterday’s Roundup noted that although the Norwalk Bed Bath & Beyond store is not accepting coupons — and everything is 20% off — it was not on the chain’s list of hundreds of stores slated for closing.

But Bobbie Herman — who told “06880” that both it and the Fairfield store will close — was right.

A call to the Norwalk location yesterday confirmed the news. The person who answered said the news has not yet been announced officially. The final day is “sometime in March.”

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Two years ago, Jay Norris sat with 4 other Black men. Their goal was to create a  social community in Westport for people of color.

The men would network. They and their spouses would attend cultural events, and dine out together; they’d organize beach parties and other events for their kids.

Hoping for a few more men, they chose an optimistic name: Westport 10.

They’ve met at places like La Plage, Autostrada and Hudson Malone. Their children have gotten together. By their presence and involvement in local affairs, they’re making Westport more comfortable for themselves — and more welcoming for all.

Westport 10 has grown rapidly. They’re now up to over 50 men and their families.

So Jay has announced a new name: Westport 100.

Congratulations! Here’s hoping for more name changes in the future.

At a recent Westport 100 lunch at Hudson Malone, clockwise from bottom right: Titus McDougal (wearing a cap), Alexis Johnson, Lorenzo Wyatt, Kevin Christie, Dr. Stephan Grevious, Ron Gordon, Trey Ellis, Vinny Spencer, Roy Adams, Timothy Tanksley, Jay Norris, Ted Parker, C.D. Glin,

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New York Times crossword puzzle editor and NPR puzzle master Will Shortz entertained hundreds of puzzle solvers and word lovers yesterday, at the 24th annual Westport Library contest.

The crowd worked on 3 puzzles he brought — all yet to be published in the Times — and then followed along as 3 finalists competed onstage. Before the final round, Shortz led a series of word games.

“You’re sharp!” he said, as one man took about three nanonseconds to turn one word (“mechanize”) into the name of an animal by adding another (“chimpanzee”).

The crossword champion — who won a previous contest here — was Glenn Ryan. He finished the final puzzle — an always-tough “Saturday” one — in 6 minutes, 48 seconds.

The rest of us are still working on it.

Will Shortz, leading word games at the Westport Library. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Last week, Matt Murray’s radar detector started going bonkers at various spots it never had before.

He realized it was triggered by boxes on telephone poles. Looking closely, he saw that they’re property of the Connecticut Department of Transportation. He worried that “Big Brother” was monitoring speeds.

A state Department of Transportation traffic study box. (Photo/Matt Murray)

They are on (among other roads) North Avenue, Cross Highway and Bayberry Lane — all areas that are being studied for traffic patterns, prior to recommendations for improvement.

Westport Police Chief says, “the data is not vehicle specific. Nor is it being used for enforcement.”

Matt sends along this link, from a barcode on the radar box.

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Kat Evans is this month’s featured artist at the Westport Book Shop.

Her luminous color field paintings are on display through February 28. All are available for purchase.

Kat’s art has been shown in juried solo and group exhibitions, and hangs in collections throughout North America, Europe and Japan. She is a member of the Artists Collective of Westport.

Kat Evans, at the Westport Book Shop.

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The Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand 2003 play reading series begins with  “As Bees in Honey Drown.”

The fun-filled, insightful social satire is set for Monday, February 13 (7 p.m.). Script in Hand eadings offer intimate storytelling. Professional actors bring words to life, without sets or costumes.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Readers submit many great sunrise photos.

This one — from a few days ago, at Compo Beach — makes it to the top of the “Westport … Naturally” queue. The birds add a special touch.

(Photo/Simon Gurvets)

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And finally … today is National Fart Day. No s—.

(If you click here to contribute to “06880,” I’ll keep posting final items like this. If you contribute a lot, I’ll stop.)

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“06880” Podcast: Jay Norris

Posted on August 22, 2022 | 3 comments

I’ve welcomed a few dozen extremely interesting guests to “06880: The Podcast.” But there’s never been one with quite the background of Jay Norris.

He’s helped market the careers of Notorious BIG, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Pink, Toni Braxton, Alicia Keys and many others.

He’s an innovative business leader. He knows tech, media, retail and real estate.

Jay brings people together. He builds inclusive communities. In his 6 years in Westport, he’s made a mark here. And — in new positions, like Westport Library board member and co-founder of Westport10, for Black families — he’ll make this an even better, more exciting and more inclusive town.

Click below for our fascinating half hour chat.

(“06880” is supported solely by readers. Please click here to kick in!)

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Jay Norris: Community Builder Puts Talents To Work

Posted on July 6, 2022 | 3 comments

Jay Norris was called”The Tastemaker.”

Working with unknown musicians signed by Clive Davis to Arista Records, he’d head to an unfamiliar city. He’d find a venue; put influential journalists, artists and political figures together, and ride the buzz that followed. Norris developed marketing strategies for Notorious BIG, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Pink, Toni Braxton, Alicia Keys and many others.

He created “cultural currency,” he says. “It’s all about getting the right people in the room.”

Now the Westport resident looks forward to doing the same thing here. As a new Westport Library trustee, he brings great creativity, tremendous energy — and a vast network of remarkable friends and colleagues.

In a town filled with interesting people, Norris stands at the top of the list.

The Detroit native turned down a swimming scholarship to Stanford in favor of Howard. He majored in sociology, and was fascinated by both human behavior and pattern recognition.

Jay Norris

That served him well, in the music industry. He studied artists and audiences. He promoted music — a subjective task — but always quantified the results.

In 1997, Norris Norris founded Tastemakers Media. It forged strategic partnerships between the music industry and lifestyle brands.

He branched into real estate investment, management consulting, and a curated retail platform for Detroit makers and innovators. In 2018 Norris co-founded Guesst, a software platform that helps property owners find complementary brands for their retail locations. He’s now CEO of the firm.

Six years ago, Norris and his wife Crystal were living in Brooklyn. With 3-year-Jacob soon to enter school; they started thinking about options. Crystal knew Connecticut through relatives. The couple explored a variety of cities and towns.

On a beautiful summer day, they drove to Compo Beach. “I felt something I’d never felt anywhere,” Norris recalls. “The vibe from people was different from anywhere else.”

He saw only 2 other Black people. That was enough to convince him he could live here.

As they searched for homes, there was just one must-have: walking distance to the train station. They found a perfect spot, 5 minutes away.

Three months ago, a Westport YMCA swim parent introduced Norris to Westport Library director Bill Harmer. Like matches Norris had made in music, there was instant chemistry.

He and Harmer talked about the Library’s cutting-edge production studios, and its innovative programming. As they discussed Westport residents’ interests and talents in art, film and fashion, Norris grew excited.

He’d been to the Library only once before. But he was hooked — by the building, and by Harmer’s “north star thinking.”

“The Library is such an added value to Westport,” Norris says. “It’s a cultural innovative hub.

“Schools in Westport nourish our kids. The Library does that for the public. It brings people together, helps us find our common denominator, and points us forward.”

It functions too as a community event space. By “community,” he hopes residents of neighboring towns will come too, to see all that Westport offers.

Norris points to the Library’s inaugural Verso Fest, a music-and-media festival held in the spring. Bridgeport educator/activist Walter Luckett brought a group of teenagers to the inspirational keynote by actor/writer/producer/martial artist Michael Jai Wright.

But Norris is not limiting his ideas to youths. As Westport’s own Shonda Rhimes proved at last month’s “Booked for the Evening,” the Library can inspire people “from 5 to 100.”

Jay and Crystal Norris flank Shonda Rhimes, at “Booked for the Evening.”

Norris hopes to tap into his broad network  — men and women in film, fashion, sports and the media — to “bring subject matter experts into the room with influencers.”

He knows some of them, around the nation. He knows many others are here in town, waiting to be asked.

“We can do this!” he says excitedly. “Our lens is really broad. The best part is that Bill is really open to this. There’s no ceiling. He and the board want to hear all ideas.”

If you’re concerned that Norris has not yet mentioned a library’s traditional raison d’être — books  —  he says: Don’t worry.

During a Zoom interview with the current board, a woman said: “I like you. But I love books.”

Norris replied: “I hear you. I don’t want to change anything you love. I want to enhance it. We’ll send you targeted emails. We’ll customize things, so you can learn about what you want to read, when you want to read it. We’ll create programs that add to your experience, not detract from it.”

Norris’ community-building efforts don’t stop with the Library. In the summer of 2020 — right after George Floyd was killed — he and Crystal, a broker with William Pitt Sotheby’s, sat at Bartaco with another Black couple. They noted the lack of Black faces here.

Norris did what he does best: He brought people together. He created Westpor10 — a social community for people of color. Adults attend cultural events, and dine out together; they organize beach parties and other events for their kids.

Jay and Crystal Norris, with their children.

Norris also mentors an A Better Chance of Westport scholar, helping bridge the gap between the teenager’s home town, and his new community of Westport.

Jay Norris has a lot on his plate. But — echoing the title of a gold record by Celine Dion, an artist he once promoted — he’s a master at “taking chances.”

(“06880” brings you stories like this, thanks to reader support. Click here to chip in.)

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