Tag Archives: Keith Richards

Roundup: Donation Drop-offs, Swim Club Tryouts, Sherwood Island Solstice …

Posted on December 12, 2025 | Leave a comment

Westport Country Playhouse is getting in the holiday spirit.

And not just just with it’s production of “A Sherlock Carol.”

The family-friendly show is certainly an attraction.

But there’s more. Three important groups — the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, Norwalk Toys for Tots, and Westport Homes with Hope food pantry– are recipients of donations that can be dropped off during “A Sherlock Carol”‘s December 13-21 run.

There will be collection boxes in the Playhouse lobby whenever the box office is open (Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m.), and during performances.

For The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, curtain speeches will invite monetary donations from the audience.

“The bond we share with The Hole in the Wall Camp remains especially close to our hearts,” says Playhouse artistic director Mark Shananan.

“It would make Camp founder Paul Newman and our own former artistic director Joanne Woodward very proud to see the relationship between our organizations still going strong.“

In fact, Shanahan’s involvement with the camp helped inspire “A Sherlock Carol.”

It’s the story of a grown-up Tiny Tim turning his personal experiences into a lifelong commitment to helping others — “just like so many people at Camp do,” Shanahan says.

Meanwhile, Norwalk Toys for Tots seeks new, unwrapped toys and books for children in need — including books in Spanish and Haitian Creole — for ages newborn to 18. Donations benefit local agencies and families in Norwalk, Fairfield and Westport. Click here for more information.

Westport’s Homes with Hope — dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Fairfield County — needs items for its food pantry: pancake mix, cooking oil, condiments, laundry detergent (small containers), feminine care products, canned fruit, cold cereal, salt and pepper, jelly, cleaning wipes, and gift certificates to Walmart and Stop & Shop. Click here for more information. 

To learn more about “A Sherlock Carol” — including ticket purchases — click here.

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All 2nd through 8th grade boys and girls are invited to try out for the Westport Swim Club.

It’s a great program — big on fun, friends and fundamentals — that helps get youngsters ready for the Staples High School program, either next year or a few years down the line. The winter session starts January 7.

Tryouts are December 15 (5:15 to 6:30 p.m.), January 5 (5:30 to 6:30 p.m.), January 10 (4 to 5 p.m.) and January 11 (9:45 to 10:30 a.m.). Click here to sign up.

More details are in the graphic below. Questions? Email swimwestport@gmail.com.

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Sure, it’s cold. Crowds have thinned considerably at Sherwood Island State Park.

But there’s still plenty to do. And plenty of room to do it in.

The Winter Solstice is 10:03 a.m. on December 21. Starting at 10, Friends of Sherwood Island will meet at the main pavilion for winter seed sowing in milk jugs.

After collecting seeds of native flowers in the dunes, members will help attendees cut a milk jug, drill holes in the bottom, fill it with special potting soil, and add seeds and water.

Then bring it home to leave outside until spring. (Jugs brought indoors will not germinate. Seeds need the winter cold.)

There’s hot chocolate, snacks and a “special visitor.” It’s free (but no pets). Bring empty, washed milk jugs (maximum 3 per family).

Then, on January 1, Friends of Sherwood Island invite everyone to start the new year with a breezy walk along the beach. Children and dogs on short leashes are welcome. Meet in front of the Nature Center at 11 a.m.; follow signs to the East Beach area.

Dress in layers. Bring a hot beverage and snack.

Questions? Call Michele: 203-247-1390.

Seeds for spring.

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Happy (upcoming) birthday! Keith Richards turns 82 on December 18. Time is certainly on his side.

It would be a bit intrusive to suggest we head over to his house to serenade the Rolling Stones guitarist.

But maybe a card or note? Just mail it to “Keith Richards, Weston, CT 06883.”

I’m sure that won’t be the first time someone has done that.

Keith Richards, at the Westport Library in March. He received the first-ever Governor’s Award of Excellence. (Photo/Ryan Allen)

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Speaking of the Stones: American Colors by Henry Lehr’s trunk show tomorrow (Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) features the Rolling Stones and Revo.

The “exclusive sunglass collaboration (was) inspired by the icons who changed how we hear — and how we look.”

Will Keith be there?

Probably not.

Hey — you can’t always get what you want.

 

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Wednesday’s weather was not exactly ducky.

But Jamie Walsh headed to Compo Beach. That’s where he saw — and shot — today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

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And finally … in honor of Westport Swim Club’s next season (story above):

(We’re not exactly drowning, here at “06880” central. But we do rely on reader’s support, to help us publish our hyper-local blog. Please click here to contribute. Every little bit helps. Thank you!)

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You Can Always Get What You Want: Keith Richards’ Guitar At The Library

Posted on April 4, 2025 | 3 comments

When Keith Richards was honored by Governor Lamont last month at the Westport Library, he didn’t play a lick.

But the Rolling Stones/Rock & Roll Hall of Fame guitarist/longtime Weston resident signed a bunch of items.

After this weekend, they can be yours.

Among the items up for sale at the Library’s very cool auction, running in conjunction with the 4-day VersoFest that kicked off last night:

  • A signature Keith Richards guitar, signed by Richards. (Starting bid: $12,500)
  • 2 signed first edition first-printing copies of “Life,” Richards’ best-selling memoir
  • A professionally framed print by famed Westport photographer Michael Friedman of Richards and the Rolling Stones in concert at Madison Square Garden, signed by both Friedman and Richards
  • An original art portrait of Richards, painted by VersoFest 2025 featured artist 5ivefingaz, signed by both Richards and 5ivefingaz.

Keith’s guitar.

Non-Keith Richards auction items include travel opportunities like trips to the American Music Awards Show, Disney World, New Orleans and more.

Richards’ items will be on display throughout VersoFest. Proceeds benefit the festival.

The auction has already begun. It closes at 11:59 p.m. Sunday (April 6). Click here to see all items — and bid.

Keith Richards’ 5ivefingaz print (left), and Michael Friedman’s photograph. Both are autographed.

(For the full VersoFest schedule, click here.)

(“06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” And the Rolling Stones. We can get some satisfaction if you click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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And Now … Let’s Give It Up For Keith, Ned, Alison And Dave!

Posted on March 6, 2025 | 5 comments

Keith Richards left the Westport Library quickly yesterday, soon after Ned Lamont presented him with the first-ever  Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence.

But the governor hung around backstage, for a chat with Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs.

The 2 Westporters — veteran journalists with, among other outlets, CNN and Fox — have a new podcast: “Sanity.”

They’re naturals, asking intriguing questions in a casual, conversational style.

Podcast screenshot: Governor Lamont, Alisyn Camerota, Dave Briggs, at the Westport Library.

Governor Lamont clearly enjoyed their chat.

He talked about being a Rolling Stones “groupie,” who has seen at least one concert a decade from the 1970s through this one.

He showed off his Stones belt, revealed his favorite song, and discussed his 6-year quest to honor Richards (who finally awarded his “persistence”).

Briggs and Camerota then pivoted to politics. The governor mentioned areas where he can work with the Trump administration, and areas where he can’t.

The podcasters pressed him on whether he’ll run again (spoiler: he’ll decide by the end of the summer).

Finally, it was back to another pressing state matter: pizza.

To hear that story — and the rest of this very intriguing podcast — click here, or watch below.

 

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Rip This Joint: Library Rocks Keith Richards’ Connecticut Honor

Posted on March 6, 2025 | 6 comments

“Its very important to keep the books unburnt. Watch out for the matches!”

That may not be as memorable a Keith Richards line as “you can’t always get what you want.” Or “I know, it’s only rock ‘n’ roll, but I like it.” Or “let’s spend the night together.”

But it was the takeaway from yesterday’s very cool Westport Library ceremony.

The Rolling Stones co-founder, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member, and 40-year Weston resident received the inaugural Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence — from Governor Ned Lamont, of course — at the jam-packed, and very excited, Library’s Trefz Forum.

Keith Richards, Governor’s Award of Excellence honoree.

Nearly every top official in Connecticut was in the house, along with musicians like Crispin Cioe — the saxophonist who has played with every legend, including the Stones — and Mark Naftalin, Rock Hall of Fame keyboardist with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band. Both are Westport residents.

But all the others — even the governor — were side attractions. The crowd — most of whom remembered the band from their “Satisfaction” days — was there to see Richards.

He did not play a lick. But in brief remarks, he spoke straight from the heart.

Praise for the Westport Library, the power of books, and 40 happy years in Weston.

Like so many other area residents, he and his wife Patti Hansen left New York City seeking “fresh air” for their daughters.

Weston was “a great place,” he said. “I’m incredibly happy.”

Speaking of libraries in general — and Westport’s in particular — Richards said, “without books and knowing things, you won’t have much in your head.”

Westport Library director Bill Harmer — the first warm-up act — alluded to the unusual setting.

“Where do you think you are — a public library?” he asked, encouraging the crowd to make some noise. They did.

Libraries are places of community and culture, Harmer continued. And Richards epitomizes the very ideals — creativity, intellectual freedom and life-long learning, for example — that libraries honor.

Westport Library director Bill Harmer.

He quoted Richards, who once said, “When you are growing up there are 2 institutional places that affect you most powerfully: the church, which belongs to God, and the public library, which belongs to you. The public library is the great equalizer.”

For 40 years, Harmer said, Richards has used his influences and resources to support community efforts, like SPHERE and Ridgefield’s Prospector Theater. Both support people with disabilities.

The second warm-up act — Governor Lamont — noted Richards’ long impact on Connecticut, including the Stones’ famous unannounced show at Toad’s Place in New Haven. Lamont had just come from the club’s 50th anniversary celebration.

Lamont said he continues to be inspired by the band’s music, whenever he thinks of housing (“Gimme Shelter”), small business development (“Start Me Up”) and dealing with the state legislature (“You Can’t Always Get What You Want”).

Governor Ned Lamont.

Then, without further ado, he presented Richards with the first-ever Governor’s Award of Excellence: a custom-designed medallion, crafted by a state trooper and manufactured by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, plus a ribbon sewn in the state.

The guitarist and the governor.

With the governor’s arm in a sling following an injury on a recent trade mission to India, his wife Ann draped the medal around Richards’ neck.

Congratulations, from First Lady Ann Lamont.

Harmer then added another gift: a specially laminated Westport Library card.

Library director Bill Harmer presents the laminated library card. Governor Lamont looks pleased.

The rock star’s remarks were brief, but heartfelt.

He did not quote any of his lyrics. Nothing about not getting any satisfaction. Wild horses not dragging him away.

And certainly not, “what a drag it is getting old.”

Staples High School graduate and Weston resident Michael Friedman has his own rock history. In his youth he photographed the Stones — and Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and many more — in concert. After discovering the negatives 50 years later, he published them in a book.

An unidentified — but very cool-looking — fashion designer guest.

The official proclamation included the “key to the state” for Richards.

The New York Times, Rolling Stone, and every media outlet in the state was invited to attend …

… while even the state’s top officials wanted selfies with Keith …

… and others took videos during his remarks.

Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas.

Dave Briggs (left) shares a laugh with Connecticut Attorney General William Tong.

State Treasurer Erick Russell.

Westport 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

Also at the ceremony: fellow Rock & Roll Hall of Famer (Paul Butterfield Blues Band) Mark Naftalin, a Westport resident.

Staples High School resource officer Ed Wooldridge provides security.

The crowd lingers, after the ceremony.

And now: the news.

(All photos/Ryan Allen)

BONUS TRACK: Click below, for an excerpt from Keith Richards’ speech.

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Time Is On His Side: Governor Honors Keith Richards On Wednesday, At Westport Library

Posted on March 3, 2025 | 12 comments

Keith Richards is about to get some satisfaction.

The Rolling Stones co-founder, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, author — and Weston resident — is the first recipient of a major award.

And he’ll get it right here in Westport.

On Wednesday (March 5, 4 p.m.), Ned Lamont will present the inaugural Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence to the legendary guitarist. The Westport Library event is an invitation-only affair, not open to the public.

Among the attendees: many state and local dignitaries, and noted musicians. The Library closes that day at 3 p.m.

Keith Richards and his daughter Theodora at Sherwood Island State Park, 2021.

The Governor’s Award of Excellence celebrates residents who enrich our state’s cultural and civic life. Recipients epitomize Connecticut’s core values: creativity, resourcefulness, passion, dynamism and generosity.

The award includes a custom-designed medallion, crafted by state trooper Danny Carvalho and manufactured by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, plus a ribbon designed and sewn by Enfield fashion designer Justin Haynes.

Richards will also receive a proclamation from Lamont, offering the “Key to the State.”

Keith Richards (right) and Westport guitarist Charlie Karp, at the Georgetown Saloon. After leaving Staples High School in 11th grade, Karp went on to play with Buddy Miles and Jimi Hendrix. (Photo/Ray Flanigan)

“Connecticut has long been home to some of the world’s most innovative minds, boldest artists, and most generous hearts,” Lamont notes.

“This award was created to honor those whose creativity, resourcefulness, and passion have made a lasting impact on our state and beyond. Keith Richards is the epitome of these values — not only as one of the most influential musicians of all time but as a dedicated supporter of the arts, education, and community causes right here in Connecticut.”

Richards’ ties here are deep. A Westonite since 1985, he has long supported the area.

His philanthropy includes organizations 2 organizations that support people with disabilities: SPHERE and the Prospector Theater.

Keith Richards, with his daughters Theodora and Alexandra. Alexandra was married at Lachat Town Farm in Weston, though this photo is not from that reception.

Richards has also been an advocate for arts, education, and accessibility initiatives throughout the state.

Richards has also written 2 books: a memoir “Life,” and the children’s “Gus & Me: The Story of My Granddad and My First Guitar.”

“When you are growing up there are 2 institutional places that affect you most powerfully: the church, which belongs to God, and the public library, which belongs to you,” Richards says. “The public library is the great equalizer.”

“The Westport Library is beyond thrilled to host this momentous occasion honoring Keith Richards, a true cultural icon whose influence transcends generations,” adds Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer.

“As a library that celebrates creativity, storytelling, and the transformative power of the arts, we couldn’t imagine a more fitting place for this historic event.

“Keith’s legacy is woven into the fabric of music history, and we are honored to provide the stage where Connecticut will recognize his immeasurable contributions. This is not just a celebration of an artist, but of a life lived boldly, authentically, and with an undeniable passion for inspiring others.”

Weston’s own Keith Richards.

Richards — one of the greatest guitarists in the history of music — helped found the Rolling Stones nearly 70 years ago.

His songwriting partnership with Mick Jagger is among the most successful and prolific in rock history. Their singature songs include “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” “Satisfaction,” “Ruby Tuesday,” “Start Me Up,” “Happy,” “Miss You,” “Brown Sugar,” “Gimme Shelter,” “Wild Horses,” “It’s Only Rock n’ Roll (But I Like it),” and “As Tears Go By,” plus scores of others.

Richards’ solo albums include “Talk Is Cheap,” “Live at the Hollywood Palladium,” “Main Offender” and “Crosseyed Heart.”

He played a solider in the 1969 film “Man on Horseback,” himself on “The Simpsons,” and appeared in 2 “Pirates of the Caribbean” films as Captain Teague, the father of main character Jack Sparrow (who himself was loosely based on Richards).

In 2015 he released a Netflix documentary, “Keith Richards: Under The Influence.” It was partially filmed in Connecticut.

Richards was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1993, and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2004.

On Wednesday, he’ll add another great honor to that list.

Keith Richards with fellow Rolling Stones (from left) Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood and Charlie Watts, the drummer who died in 2021.

 

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“Cool Cohl Katz Contest” Winners Picked

Posted on June 5, 2024 | 2 comments

Dozens of readers responded to Sunday’s “Cool Cohl Katz Contest.”

The Westport stylist to the stars offered her talents — a haircut and makeup application for women, a haircut and style for men — to 3 winners of a contest she and I cooked up.

We asked 3 trivia questions about famous current or past Westport or Weston residents. All of them have been (of course!) Cohl’s clients.

Then we put all the correct answers in a (stylish) hat, and drew 3 lucky winners.

Question #1: This former Westporter started out as a stockbroker. But that’s not where they gained the most fame.

This got the most correct responses: 47. The answer is (of course) Martha Stewart. (The most popular incorrect guess: James Comey).

Congratulations to the winner: Anne Leskow.

Martha Stewart and her former husband Andy, outside their Turkey Hill home.

Question #2: To prepare for his role as an emotionally destroyed soldier in a film that won him an Academy Award, this actor ate only bananas, water and rice for a month.

31 readers knew this was Christopher Walken, in “The Deer Hunter.” (Not Tom Hanks or Tom Cruise, also clients of Cohl’s.)

The winner is: Todd Pines.

Christopher Walken in “The Deer Hunter.”

Question #3: This musician has co-written 14 songs on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”

Incorrect guesses were led by Nile Rodgers and Ashford & Simpson. The correct answer — known by 32 readers — is Keith Richards.

I thought that was a giveaway, because I mentioned “Rolling Stone” magazine. Oh well …

The winner of that prize is: Stacey Henske.

Keef

Congratulations to all 3. Cohl will be in touch, to arrange your style session.

Didn’t win, but want to feel like a star anyway? Email cohlita@yahoo.com.

(If you enjoyed this fun contest — or anything else, any day, on “06880′ — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here, to help us keep publishing “in style.” Thank you!)

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Roundup: Westoberfest, Roy Wood Jr., Flooding …

Posted on October 15, 2023 | 3 comments

Sure, it was a wet Saturday.

But a little rain can’t keep a good Westoberfest down.

The annual Westport Downtown Association event went on yesterday, with the usual beer, music, beer, kids activities, and beer.

We’ll drink to that!

(All photos/Susan Garment)

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Also last night: The annual “Stand up for Homes with Hope” benefit.

A full crowd packed Fairfield University’s Quick Center to laugh uproariously with Roy Wood Jr., and raise much-needed funds for Westport’s supportive shelter and food pantry non-profit.

Laughter and homelessness don’t often go together. But the star of the night — and Helen McAlinden and the many board and staff members who make Homes with Hope a local treasure — made sure attendees understood that connections between all of us are the most important thing in life.

Roy Wood Jr. (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)

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Flooding is a major issue in Westport. As climate change worsens, it too will became even more prevalent.

The Flood & Erosion Control Board meets November 1. On the agenda:

  • Prioritize and assist the Department of Public Works in the approval and implementation of flood related projects involving watersheds in Westport.
  • Work with the Representative Town Meeting to revise regulations, allowing the board to review large projects if required, and educate the RTM about public input related to flooding.
  • Dedicate a minimum of 2 public discussion meetings per year to discuss updates on flood projects.
  • Develop and implement a campaign to help educate the public about flood and erosion issues in Westport.
  • Develop and implement a plan to educate the community on ways to help mitigate the impact of flooding and erosion on private and public properties.
  • Advocate for supporting the town mitigation efforts by sharing the board’s perspective with the Board of Finance, state legislative leaders, and Department of Energy & Environmental Protection officials.

The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for the Zoom link. The meeting ID is 892 4707 8896; the passcode is 900470.

Grove Point flooding, from a December storm. (Photo/John Kantor)

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Saranda and Al Strazza are very involved with Veterans of Foreign Wars Joseph J. Clinton Post 399. Al — a retired combat Marine who served in the first Gulf War — is now vice commander of the local VFW. Saranda helped obtain a $100,000 gift, to pay for river dredging in the area.

This Friday (October 20, 6 p.m.), the VFW hosts a Chili Cook-off. The participation fee is $15. Funds raised will benefit Westport’s Police and Fire Departments, and Emergency Medical Services.

There are prizes, a 50/50 raffle — and of course chili.

While participating in the Citizen Police Academy, Saranda and Al were surprised to learn that the local K-9 unit is completely funded by donations.

They vowed to help raise funds for a new bite jacket, medical costs, food, equipment supplies and training toys.

A booth at the Chili Cook-off will sell plush toys for sale, and collect donations.

For more information, call 203-227-6796, or email vfw399ct@gmail.com.

Westport’s K-9 corps.

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October is both Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Fire Safety Month.

So — of course! — on Friday the Westport Fire Department brought fire trucks and pink fire boots to Kings Highway Elementary school, for an all-school event.

Fire Marshal Terry Dunn spoke to students about fire safety. Meanwhile, his fellow firefighters collected donations from students for the American Cancer Society. Students filled the pink boots with more than $475.

After listening to the fire safety speech, students, teachers and administrators explored a vintage fire truck. ‘

They also placed pink ribbons in the back of the school, as a symbol of support for those impacted by breast cancer.

Kings Highway Elementary School administrators, in a vintage fire truck. From front to back: principal Tracey Carbone, assistant principals Catherine Carmona and Jame’el Lawrence.

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Also on Friday, the Norwalk Housing Authority brought students to the Westport Community Gardens for after-school art enrichment.

Creativity “bloomed,” as NHS and WCG adults watched with pride.

Friday fun, in the Westport Community Gardens.

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The Westport Woman’s Club’s annual Clothing Tag Sale runs this Friday and Saturday (October 20-21) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday (October 22) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the WWC’s historic clubhouse (44 Imperial Avenue).

Gently used women’s, men’s and children’s clothing and accessories are featured, with a wide variety of suits, dresses, pants, blouses, gowns, coats, scarves, shoes, jewelry, handbags and hats.

Funds raised help support the town’s food closet, many charities throughout Fairfield County, and student scholarships.

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Rolling Stone magazine just listed their 250 best guitarists of all time.

There at #7 — behind Jimi Hendrix, Chuck Berry, Jimmy Page, Eddie Van Halen, Jeff Beck and Sister Rosetta Tharpe, but ahead of artists like BB King and Duane Allman — is Westport’s own Nile Rodgers.

The story begins:

There’s “influential,” then there’s “massively influential,” then there’s Nile Rodgers. The story of pop music over the past 50 years is basically the story of Rodgers’ guitar.

The manic-staccato funk jangle he invented with Chic, in Seventies disco hits like “Le Freak” and “Good Times” — that’s been the heartbeat of global pop ever since.

His warp-speed guitar on the 1980 Diana Ross classic “I’m Coming Out” was still the toughest sound on the radio almost two decades later, when Biggie turned it into “Mo Money Mo Problems.” Now that’s staying power.

Click here for the full story.

PS: Weston’s own Keith Richards checks in at #15.

Should we start calling our 2 towns the Guitarists’ Capital of the World?

(Hat tip: Mark Mathias)

Nile Rodgers, at the Queen’s Jubilee. (Photo/Ellen Wentworth)

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Jack Backiel is a frequent commenter on “06880.” He no longer lives here, but he has fond memories of the years his family owned Westport Lanes — the bowling alley located where BevMax is today.

Jack’s son John recently added a small display about the Lanes in his dining room. It includes newspaper clippings, stationery, and a photo of opening day (with professional bowlers, sent by Brunswick).

John lives in the Washington area, and is vice president of finance and accounting at the Heritage Foundation.

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High on the cell tower behind Walgreens, Johanna Keyser Rossi counted 20 turkey vultures. And a few crows.

It takes an eagle eye to sport them. But they’re all part of “Westport … Naturally.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … let’s hear it for our neighbor Nile Rodgers, the 7th greatest guitarist in the world! (See story above …)

(From floods and the Fire Department to Nile Rodgers and Keith Richards, we’ve got 06880 [and 06883] covered. Please click here to support local journalism. Thank you!)

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Roundup: At-Home COVID Kits, Tree Recycling, Keith Richards …

Posted on December 29, 2021 | 11 comments

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The State of Connecticut has procured 500,000 at-home COVID test kits; each contains 2 tests. Westport’s allotment 3,420 kits.

The kits will be distributed to Westport residents tomorrow (Thursday, December 30) at Staples High School, beginning at 1 p.m.

Each vehicle will receive 2 kits, on a first-come, first-served basis. A driver’s license will be required to receive the test kits.

As early as next week, the state will also distribute N95 masks. Details are still being finalized.

Connecticut Public Health Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani says:

I strongly encourage people to limit gathering sizes during this holiday week. Because of the scarcity of these kits, I ask residents to please take only the kits that you need for your immediate family so that we can distribute as many as possible to help flatten the Omicron curve.

Residents testing positive via the home test should stay home or isolate for 5 days if asymptomatic, followed by 5 days of wearing a mask when around others. There is no need to obtain a follow up PCR test.

Given the highly infectious nature of the Omicron variant, it is vital to wear a mask both in public, and when interacting in close contact with individuals outside of your household. For the latest CDC guidelines, please click here.

Westport Public Schools families should report positive COVID cases of students using the district’s reporting voicemail or email (click here for details). It is not necessary to report positive results from at-home testing to the Westport Weston Health District. (Hat tip: Ernie Lorimer)

An at-home COVID test.

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COVID did not stop you from buying a Christmas tree.

And it won’t stop Boy Scout Troop 39 from hauling yours away, either.

The Scouts’ annual tree pick-up project — one of the town’s most-awaited post-New Year’s events — is set for Saturday, January 8.

It’s simple: First you register (click here).

Then put your tree by your mailbox by 6:30 a.m. on January 8. Tape an envelope with a donation (suggested: $20 per tree) to your front door (cash or check, payable to “Boy Scout Troop 39”).

They’ll do the rest. Scout’s honor! (Hat tip: Jenny Rago McCarthy)

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This has been a tough year for many. It’s been especially difficult for the Colletti family.

Chuck and Roe Colletti have been active with Westport organizations, events and charities since 1974. Their daughter Cassie is married to Sean Mecsery. They have 2 children, 6 and 2 years old. For the past 2 years Sean has battled stage 4 brain cancer for 2 years.

They’ve shuttled between hospitals on both coasts for surgeries, chemotherapy radiation and trial medications. It’s been brutal.

Cassie has been strong, focused and committed throughout the ordeal. Meanwhile, she’s managed Sean’s family’s business — Cos Cob TV & Audio — to help keep the family afloat. COVID has made that especially hard.

Many daily medications and infusions are not covered by insurance. A GoFundMe page has been set up, to help. To donate, click here.

Sean and Cassie Colletti Mecsery, with their kids.

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The “06880” tagline is “Where Westport meets the world.”

It doesn’t get more global than this.

Bert Spenkelink lives in Amsterdam. He loves the Rolling Stones. He has 25,000 photos of them in his library, and posts about them often on Instagram.

He just uploaded this one:

The photographer — uncredited — took this shot of Keith and his daughter Theodora the other day, at Sherwood Island State Park.

Avid “06880” reader (and Stones fan) Fred Cantor sent it along to me. He got it from our former Staples High School classmate Alan Bravin, who now lives in California.

So, to be clear: A fan in the Netherlands found this photo of Weston’s most famous resident, celebrating the holidays in Westport — and it came to me, a couple of miles from where it was taken, by someone on the West Coast.

Happy holidays, Bert, Fred, Alan, Keith and Theodora!

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As reported on “06880” last month, Savannah Bee has left its hive.

The Bedford Square store — which branched out from (great) honey products to become both an educational center and gathering place for ecologically minded Westporters — was shut by the owners of the largely Southern chain.

There’s a big hole in the heart of Church Lane today. No word yet on what will fill that very sweet spot.

Meanwhile, just a few feet away, Franny’s Farmacy closes Friday (December 31). Click here for details, reported earlier this month on “06880.”

It too is for rent.

The former Savannah Bee. (Photo/Sal Liccione)

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Fourth-generation Westporter Jonathan Maddock died December 19, after fighting a courageous battle against ALS. He kept his positive attitude and wonderful sense of humor until the end. He was 66 years old.

Jon grew up here surrounded by the love and friendship of his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins,  sisters and parents Larry and Fran Maddock, who he believed were the best parents anyone could have.

Jon loved the outdoors, and enthusiastically embraced life. He bicycled more than 5,000 miles from Westport to California and back, alone. He served as commodore of the Sandy Hook (New Jersey) Catamaran Club, sailing and racing catamarans.

He skied, mountain biked, ran long distances, ice skated, and enjoyed trout and fly fishing. He was an avid photographer of nature, as well as silly things. Jon was a skilled woodworker, building furniture and special wooden boxes as Christmas gifts. He loved listening to music, played trombone (which he laughingly balanced on his nose), and long ago enjoyed being part of the Fred Robinson Big Band.

Jon graduated from Staples in 1973, then from the University of Maine in 1977. After following a variety of career paths he and his family settled in Wolfeboro. New Hampshire, where he was employed as senior designer at Lars Heating Systems. He worked there for 20 years, and made good friends who supported him through his ALS journey.

Jon is survived by his wife Karen; daughter Kelsey; loving sisters Becky (Ray) Racine, Judy Anderson and Sandy Hasket, and many nieces an nephews and good friends. He was predeceased by his parents.

Until the end Jon was was loving, kind, understanding, compassionate, smart, funny and brave. To help carry on Jon’s fight to stop ALS, click here.

Jon Maddock (Photo/Barbara Marks)

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For a few days now, a Christmas tree has dangled from a crane over the boatyard near the railroad station.

(Photo/Nancy Vener)

There must be a back story. But I sure don’t know it. If you do, click “Comments” below.

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We like serene scenes for our “Westport … Naturally” feature — especially at the end of this chaotic year.

It doesn’t get more calming than this:

(Photo/Bobbi Essagof)

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And finally … in honor of the Keith Richards/Amsterdam/California story (above):

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Entertainment, Local business, Obituaries, Saugatuck

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Harvey Brooks: A Bassist’s View From The Bottom

Posted on July 21, 2020 | 6 comments

It sounds like a New York Times “Styles” section wedding story.

Growing up in 1950s Queens, Bonnie and Harvey were friends. But she only dated college guys. He figured she was out of his league.

In the late ’80s, after life’s twists and turns for both — Bonnie contacted Harvey. They reconnected, a bit awkwardly at first. It took a while for Bonnie’s daughters to warm up to this new man. She herself was not ready to commit to a guy who had lived all around the world, and still enjoyed a free, unfettered life.

But they had great chemistry. Harvey moved into Bonnie’s Compo Road North home. Her girls eventually came to love him too. They lived happily ever after, even after they moved — first to Arizona, then to Israel.

Bonnie and Harvey Brooks

It’s a charming tale. It becomes even more intriguing when you learn that Bonnie Behar was well-known locally, as marketing director for Bridgeport’s Discovery Museum, and a Cablevision public access coordinator covering arts and politics.

And that Harvey is Harvey Brooks, a bass guitarist.

You may not have heard his name. But you sure have heard his music.

Harvey has played and/or recorded with Jimi Hendrix, Richie Havens, Stephen Stills, John Sebastian, Seals & Crofts, Mama Cass Elliot, Boz Scaggs, Judy Collins, Loudon Wainright III, Phoebe Snow, John Cale, Phil Ochs, Al Kooper, Mavis Staples, and Peter, Paul and Mary.

Al Kooper, Buddy Miles and Harvey Brooks at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival. Miles and Brooks were the rhythm section for The Electric Flag, which debuted at the festival and inspired Kooper to form Blood, Sweat and Tears. (Photo by Pat Murphy)

He’s featured on Miles Davis’“Bitches Brew,” the best-selling jazz album of all time. He laid down some of the most famous lines in music history — including “Like a Rolling Stone” — and his work was the hook on the Doors’ “Touch Me.”

On July 4 (his birthday), Harvey published a memoir. “View From the Bottom: 50 Years of Bass Playing with Bob Dylan, the Doors, Miles Davis and Everybody Else” is a music-lover’s romp, from Greenwich Village to Monterey Pop. What could sound like name-dropping is instead a fascinating look behind the scenes of some of rock, jazz, folk and pop’s most memorable moments.

Harvey is the real deal.

But this is “06880,” so I’ll focus on the chapters that deal with Westport.

The globe-trotting musician settled down to life as a suburban stepdad. He drove Bonnie’s daughters to school. He went to yard sales. But he always came back to music.

At one of those yard sales, for example, he saw Weston resident Keith Richards. Harvey’s around-the-corner neighbor was Eric von Schmidt, who he knew from his folk days at Boston’s Club 47. Bonnie threw him a surprise birthday party at Eric’s bocce court; Keith, famed songwriter/session musician Danny Kortchmar, and legendary local guitarist Charlie Karp came too.

I wanted to know more about Harvey’s Westport life. Responding from Israel, he talked about his friendships with music industry heavyweights like Chance Browne, Gail and Terry Coen, and rock photographer Michael Friedman.

Writer Max Wilk and his artist wife Barbara were friends. Max was also a jazz musician. Harvey played at one of his Westport Arts Center concerts. They wrote a country song together: “You Can’t Cut a Deal With Jesus.”

Harvey had a side gig, teaching young musicians. He must have been great: Staples High School grads Dan Asher, Trevor Coen and Merritt Jacobs have all gone on to professional careers.

Harvey had a fulfilling life in suburbia. He and Bonnie now enjoy Israel. It’s a world away from Queens — but then, so was Westport.

He is certainly not without a home. And — after more than half a century in the studio and on stage, and now with the publication of his book — Harvey Brooks is definitely not a complete unknown.

(To order “View From the Bottom,” click here.)

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3 Million Records — In Westport?

Posted on January 10, 2020 | 23 comments

A few days ago, the New York Times ran a story about the Archive of Contemporary Music. The non-profit houses one of the world’s largest collections of popular music: over 3 million recordings, plus music books, memorabilia and press kids.

There are “shelves upon shelves upon shelves of vinyl records and CDs, signed Johnny Cash records… boxes of big band recordings, world music and jazz and original soundtracks.”

Keith Richards

It also holds the bulk of Keith Richards’ famed blues collection. (He’s on the board of advisers.)

But rising TriBeCa rents are forcing the mammoth collection elsewhere. They’ve got until June to find a new space.

Nile Rodgers —  the record producer and co-founder of the band Chic — is also on the Archive’s board.

Which raises an intriguing idea, first proposed by alert “06880” reader Jeff Mitchell. With those 2 luminaries so involved — and living in Westport and Weston, along with other great recording artists like Michael Bolton and Jose Feliciano, not to mention our long musical history of legendary concerts from Bo Diddley to the Doors; REO Speedwagon writing 157 Riverside about their time here; Johnny Winter and Joe Cocker recording and rehearsing in Westport — why not invite the Archive of Contemporary Music to set up shop here?

I’m (semi) serious. We already have a Museum of Contemporary Art (formerly the Westport Arts Center). a Westport Museum for History and Culture (most recently the Westport Historical Society), plus the Westport Country Playhouse (unchanged after 90 years). This would be one more cultural attraction.

Where would they go? That’s for wiser heads than mine to decide. But we do have an unused building sitting smack in the middle of Baron’s South.

And we keep talking about all those vacant stores on Main Street…

New home of the Archive of Contemporary Music? (Photos/Chip Stephens)

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Entertainment, Organizations, People

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