Saugatuck residents have coped with several hassles — road closures, delays and heavy traffic; noise and more — in the months since the Aquarion/Dave Tinker Construction water main project began on and around Riverside Avenue several months ago.
Yesterday may have been the worst. Hundreds of residents had no water for much of the morning.
The good news: The water is back on.
The bad news: The project is not yet over.
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Beer and other canned alcoholic beverages might be available at the Longshore golf course this summer.
The Recreation Commission voted 3-0 on Wednesday to approve their sale. Two seats on the 5-person board are vacant.
The proposal now goes to the Select Board, for a final okay.
Thirsty Longshore golfers may be able to buy beer this year.
On Wednesday, we reported that Kyle Martino — the 1999 Staples High School graduate/Gatorade National Player of the Year/US men’s national team player would pitch his Street FC app on “Shark Tank” that night.
The competition was stiff. But Martino is an athlete. He knows how to win.
And he did. His app — which connects soccer players with pick-up games — was the night’s winner.
When Mexicue closed over a year ago — after only 2 years — it left a lot of space to fill.
Beginning the first week in February, Felice will fill it.
The restaurant — next to Sushi Jin, and across Main Street from the similarly named, but also now closed, La Fenice gelato shop — is part of a New York-based chain. There are 16 locations, in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Port Chester and Florida. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)
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Stop & Shop was calm this morning, as the sun rose shortly after its 6 a.m. opening.
It won’t be for long. Westporters are probably already descending on it — and grocery stores everywhere — in preparation for this weekend’s weather.
It will be fine today, with a high of 36. But the temperature plunges to 7 degrees tonight.
Tomorrow will be mostly sunny too, with the thermometer reaching only 17.
Snow begins Sunday morning. We could get 15 inches, with a high temperature of 18.
Light snow will continue Monday morning.
Stay warm! Stay dry! And kids … the odds are good for a snow day Monday.
(Photo/John Richers)
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Bruce Brodie’s one-man art show borrows from Walt Whitman.
But it could not be more timely.
The 1972 Staples graduate is exhibiting 18 paintings at Craven Contemporary gallery in Kent, Connecticut.
The titles of the 18 paintings — all completed in 2025 — use words from the 19th century poet to invoke the seasons, sunlight, weather, heaven and earth, love, ardor and longing.
“The work was started in anticipation of changing times,” Brodie says. “It took shape amidst the persistent drumbeat aimed at consolidating power and curtailing freedoms. I looked to the skies to express my feelings, and find hope.”
The show opens this week, and runs weekends through March 15. Brodie will be at the gallery February 14 and 15. For more information, click here.
“He That Walks With the Tender and Growing Night” (Bruce Brodie)
Speaking of sports: A familiar Westport face popped up on “Shark Tank.” The episode airs tonight (Wednesday) at 10 p.m. (ABC-TV, and streaming on Hulu).
Kyle Martino — the soccer star who won MLS Rookie of the Year honors, and played with the US national team — vied to win $250,000 for his app. Street FC connects players looking for pick-up soccer games, in cities around the country.
Martino — who was 1999 Gatorade National Player of the Year at Staples — was shown in a photo with his brother (and former teammate) Wes.
And though he described his love for pick-up (unstructured) soccer, Martino did not mention that it was honed while growing up in Westport — the town where he once again lives, and directs Street FC (and many more soccer-related projects) from.
Bitter cold did not deter a small crowd from gathering yesterday on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.
They were part of a nationwide “Free America” protest. It coincided with the first anniversary of President Trump’s second inauguration.
Protest on the Post Road bridge. (Photo/Rowene Weems)
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The Sweet Remains — Greg Naughton’s band, and longtime Fairfield County favorites with their Crosby Stills & Nash/Simon & Garfunkel/Eagles/John Mayer/Jason Mraz-type harmonies and warmth — are this Saturday’s Westport Country Playhouse headliners (January 24, 8 p.m.).
Tickets are selling fast, for the group with over 65 million Spotify streams. Their latest album, “Embers,” was produced by Grammy Award winner Andy Zulla.
Tickets are $40, $45, and $55. To purchase, and for more information, click here.
The new studio celebrates their new 25 Sylvan Road South space with an opening party tomorrow (Thursday, January 22, 5 to 7 p.m.).
The event includes music, cocktails and “good energy.” Children are welcome.
DanceBody “blends functional training with the joy and artistry of dance, to deliver a workout that is as effective as it is empowering.” It focuses on “full-body movement, coordination, strength, and endurance. Classes incorporate aerobic conditioning and resistance training in a “dance-driven, constant progression (that) creates an energizing environment that builds both confidence and community.”
“Community Conversation With Kathryn Turley-Sonne & Rachel Churner” (January 29, 6 p.m.): A panel discussion on the exhibition “Enough Already: Women Artists from the Sara M. + Michelle Vance Waddell Collection,” and the groundbreaking feminist work of Carolee Schneemann featured in it.
“Opening Reception: Art, Jazz & The Blues” (February 26, 6 p.m.; $10). The exhibit explores powerful intersections between visual art and music, drawing from the rich holdings of the Westport Public Art Collections.
The exhibition centers on “Giants of the Blues,” 7 sweepin group portraits by Westport native Eric von Schmidt honoring blues, jazz and folk musicians from the 1920s to the 1960s (currently hung in his alma mater Staples High School’s auditorium foyer).
Complementing von Schmidt’s paintings are 40 works from the WestPAC collection depicting musicians, inspired by musical themes, or exploring the resonances between musical and visual forms.
Among the local and international artists: Ann Chernow, Eric Chiang, James Daugherty, Lisa Daugherty, Stevan Dohanos, Frances Gershwin Godowsky, Joan Miró, Robert Rauschenberg, Barbara Rothenberg, Eric von Schmidt, Larry Silver and Tracy Sugarman.
Not everyone goes out for a romantic dinner on Valentine’s Day.
So Marilyn Zavidow is throwing a Valentine’s Theatre Party, at the Westport Country Playhouse Lucille Lortel Barn.
“Valentines and galentines all” are invited to the February 14 (7 p.m.). “Karma Kabaret.” Chris Coogan plays piano, John Mobilio is on bass, at this :thought-provoking, heart-evoking musical tour de force.”
It’s followed by a “bubbly and chocolate” after-party.
And finally … we welcome DanceBody to Westport (story above) with this similar-sounding song:
(Arts, entertainment, politics, sports: today’s Roundup has it all. It’s what we do at “06880” — and we do it 24/7/365. If you like it, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service’s ambulances get a lot of use. They save thousands of lives.
Now, some of those lives will be saved in a state-of-the-art, fully stocked new one.
This past week, the Westport Woman’s Club donated a brand new ambulance to WVEMS.
Funds came from a $150,000 donation to the WWC from the Lea Ruegg Foundation, and additional contributions by the Woman’s Club.
Westport Woman’s Club past president Karen Kleine hands ambulance keys to Westport Volunteer EMS president James Bairaktaris. Looking on are WWC member Donna Richardson, and 1st Selectman Kevin Christie.
The near-half-million dollar project took 3 years to complete, including designing and building.
“The custom ambulance — nicknamed ‘Lea’ — will replace one of our 10+ year-old current ambulances,” says Westport Volunteer EMS president James Bairaktaris.
“We’re blessed to have the Westport Woman’s Club as both our neighbors and supporters, and so, too, all of our EMTs and the patients we’ll help.”
HUGE thanks to the Westport Woman’s Club. But did you know that Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service pays for all their equipment they use to help all of us — from ambulances down to Band-Aids?
More than 70 years after its release, “Santa Baby” remains one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time.
Eartha Kitt sang it in 1953. She later moved to Weston, where she died of colon cancer on — coincidentally — Christmas Day, in 2008.
Her daughter Kitt Shapiro now owns WEST, a very popular women’s shop, on Post Road East.
An older woman came into the store on Thursday. Her name was Joan Javits — and she co-wrote “Santa Baby,” all those years ago. (She’s 97 years old — though she sure doesn’t look it!)
Kitt Shapiro and Joan Javits, at WEST.
It may not be the Christmas miracle of 2,000 years ago.
But it’s still pretty amazing.
PS: Among the lyrics Eartha Kitt sang were:
Come and trim my Christmas tree
With some decorations bought at Tiffany’s.
I wonder if after leaving WEST, Joan Javits crossed the street and walked a few yards west.
To buy some decorations at — you know the rest.
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Since graduating from Staples High School in 1999 — as the Gatorade National High School Player of the Year — Kyle Martino has done many things.
He earned MLS Rookie of the Year honors, played alongside David Beckham, and made 8 appearances with the US men’s national team.
He was an NBC Sports analyst for the Premier League, and ran for US Soccer president.
Now Martino — who recently moved back to Westport — is a staunch advocate for bringing soccer to underserved communities and neighborhoods around the country.
He’s got a staunch ally: New York City’s next mayor, Zohran Mamdani. (He’s a huge soccer fan — and former player — himself. Click here for a cool story.)
The other day, Martino and Mamdani chatted about the city’s role in the world game — from access to all, to the upcoming World Cup. It was an intriguing discussion. Click here or below to listen in.
What’s better than the weekly Westport Farmers’ Market?
Two in a week!
Today (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center) is their annual Holiday Artist Market.
Over 30 local vendors — jewelers, woodworkers, potters — offer handcrafted gifts.
There’s coffee, carolers and more.
Including, of course, the usual farm favorites.
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Westport’s annual Holiday Giving Program supported more than 80 households and 154 children last year.
This year the need is greater: 167 children from over 90 households qualify for support.
Many Westport families struggle quietly with job loss, rising living costs, and unexpected hardships.
Many local parents work 2 jobs, while caring for young children without reliable childcare. After rent, utilities, babysitting and medical expenses, there is often nothing left for presents.
The Family-to-Family Holiday Giving Program provides modest gift cards that allow parents to choose gifts, and bring comfort and joy back into their homes.
Longtime Westport resident Hymie Malbin died peacefully on Tuesday, surrounded by his family. He was 98 years old.
At age 2, the native of Poland emigrated with his family to South Africa. Though he did not finish high school, his lack of formal education did not preclude his success.
Most family members still in Poland were killed in the Holocaust. Hymie joined the South African Zionist movement. In 1948 he joined volunteers and war refugees bound for the new state of Israel, a defining chapter in his life. Years later, on the 50th anniversary of Israel’s independence, he was honored by the IDF.
Hymie returned home to South Africa. In 1958 he founded a brassiere company, Charmfit. It expanded into companies that manufactured lingerie, dresses, handbags, leather goods and plastics, and became the largest toy manufacturer in South Africa. Charmfit went public in 1968.
In the late 1970s Hymie and his wife Marge made the difficult decision to emigrate to London, then several years later to Westport where their children and grandchildren thrived.
Their home was an anchor, welcoming friends and family from around the world.
While Hymie formally retired in his 50s, he never stopped working. He developed interests in real estate, building and flipping homes, and was actively engaged in the markets.
He learned to sculpt, and was an avid bridge and tennis player and golfer, and swam into his 90s.
Hymie is survived by Marge, his wife of 75 years; daughters Rochelle Malbin and Hazel Malbin Shulman (Stephen), son Peter, and grandchildren and great- grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son Jonathan Malbin.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Leigh Gage. She spotted this “large German shepherd-sized” creature mid-afternoon yesterday, on Manitou Road.
And finally … in honor of that amazing Eartha Kitt/Kitt Shapiro/Joan Javits/ WEST story (above):
(Joan Javits didn’t write it, so we will: “Santa baby, bring me readers who will click this link, and donate to this blog, wink wink … Of course, all the elves at “06880” thank you!)
As students return to school Tuesday — how did that happen?! — Top Hat Tutors is back too.
The long-running, well-respected teen-led organization — featuring tutors from Fairfield County (mainly Staples High) — is looking for new clients (and tutors).
Their large staff covers every major K-12 school subject, plus music, SAT/ACT prep, and more.
Every tutor has taken the classes they tutor in — and passed the class with at least a 90. Last year, they served 160 students.
To register, go to the website and click on the tutor request form. Top Hat will email the parent or guardian when a tutor has been assigned. The rate is $50 for an individual, $75 for 2, $100 for 3. Low-income students qualify for a much reduced cost.
Questions? Email president Jack Leonard and vice president Jay Hari: tophattutors@gmail.com
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Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 399 hosts its 62nd straight monthly blood drive on Wednesday (August 27, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Donors are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance. Click here; then use sponsor code VFWWESTPORT. Or call 800-733-2767.
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“Mitch Albom’s Tuesdays with Morrie” — a play based on the beloved book — kicks off the 2025-26 Westport Country Playhouse season next month.
It’s been called “a moving story, filled with warmth, humor, and heartfelt lessons about living life to the fullest.”
When the 2025 Staples High School freshman soccer team was announced, one name stood out.
Beckham Martino is a strong player on coach Luis Mandojar’s 9th grade squad.
He also bears the names of 2 famous soccer heroes.
David Beckham was one of the superstars of his generation. He earned 115 caps and scored 17 goals for England. He starred with Manchester United, Real Madrid, AC Milan and Paris St.- Germain. Today he owns MLS Club Inter Miami — and helped bring Lionel Messi to the league.
Kyle Martino was the Gatorade National Player of the Year at Staples in 1999. He was named MLS Rookie of the Year with the Columbus Crew. He earned 8 caps with the US men’s national team, then embarked on careers as a soccer broadcaster (NBC Sports, ESPN, Turner Sports), and as the inventor of the Goalpher self-rising soccer goal system.
Beckham and Martino were also teammates, when both played for the MLS Los Angeles Galaxy.
When an alert Staples soccer fan — okay, it was me — saw the name, I texted Martino. I was the Wreckers’ assistant soccer coach, when he was the best high school player in the country.
Martino then texted Beckham.
Beckham quickly replied:
During its 67-year-history, Staples soccer has become known throughout the country for its success, its legacy, and the accomplishments of its players.
Speaking of sports: Cedar Point Yacht Club is hosting this year’s Atlantic Class National Championships.
Among the competitors: former Westporters Tom Atkinson, Vance Harrison, John Rhodes, Bill Whidden and John Yingling. Click here for a recent “06880” story on their journey back to town, decades after learning to sail at CPYC.
The Atlantics are racing right now. Eileen Lavigne caught this early morning view, from Compo Beach.
(Photo/Eileen Lavigne)
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Speaking still of sports: Lorraine Scaviola Duffy — who began her career as a Staples physical education teacher and gymnastics coach in 1976, and continued through 1985 — will be inducted into the Connecticut Gymnastics Hall of Fame in October.
She has retired from coachng — after the University of Bridgeport and at Pat King’s Gymnastics Academy — but continues to judge meets for the NCAA. (Hat tip: Karen Roehr, Staples Class of 1977)
Lorraine Scaviola, back in the day …
… and keeping a close eye on a vaulter.
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In the waning days of summer, young entrepreneurs are everywhere.
5-year-old Olly set up shop yesterday near his Greens Farms home. He was selling cars, rocks and lemonade. He earned $1, a Bic pen and a high five.
Serena Tirado, who taught science at Staples High School fromo 2008 through 2018, before taking time to focus on her battle with cancer, died earlier this month.
A colleague called her “a beautiful person inside and out — a dedicated teacher, a kind friend, and someone who was always willing to lend a hand.”
Cards and remembrances can be sent to the family at 51 Grandview Road, Fairfield, CT 06825.
Westoberfest had all the elements of an early fall (okay, last day of summer) celebration on Saturday.
Beer (from 22 breweries) and pumpkin crafts drew perhaps the largest crowd in the 7-year history of the Westport Downtown Association event, to Elm Street and environs.
But plenty else kept them there, including 2 dozen vendors, 6 food trucks, music, and kids’ activities.
Westoberfest has quickly become one of the highlights of the WDA — and entire Westport — calendar.
When Kyle Martino was growing up in Westport, he played pickup soccer with and against much older players — including college stars who had graduated from Staples.
The training worked. Martino went on to become 1999 National High School Player of the Year; MLS Rookie of the Year; a teammate of David Beckham’s on the Los Angeles Galaxy, and an 8-time US men’s national team player.
Martino’s passion for the game continues unabated. He has developed a unique retractable goal that turns any basketball court or blacktop into a small-sided field, and a non profit (Over Under Initiative) to bring soccer to underserved communities.
On Friday Martino was in Westport, discussing his ideas, seeking input and help, and encouraging his home town to be a national leader in the movement back to small-sided soccer, and encouraging informal play by all ages.
He brought some heavy hitters to the meeting at a private home: Cobi Jones, his former Galaxy teammate and the all-time leader in US men’s national team appearances (164), plus Edson Buddle, his longtime friend from New Rochelle who scored over 100 MLS goals.
Dave Briggs was at the meeting. He asked Martino to explain his mission. Click below to listen:
According to Reproductive Equity Now, anti-abortion centers — also called “crisis pregnancy centers” — are “facilities that pretend to be reproductive health clinics, but in reality, exist to dissuade people from accessing abortion care using deceptive advertising, abortion stigma, and medical disinformation.” REN says that in Connecticut, they outnumber “legitimate abortion clinics’ nearly 2 to 1.
On October 16 at MoCA CT, the organization will screen “Preconceived.” The new documentary “exposes anti-abortion centers’ deceptive and dangerous practices.”
There are 2 showings: 10 a.m. (click here for tickets) and 7 p.m. (click here for tickets). The evening event includes light refreshments at 6:30, and a brief post-screening panel with elected officials and providers.
Adam Vengrow gives a shout-out to Billi at the Post Road East Mobil station, across from Playhouse Square.
Adam writes: “I popped a tire yesterday, and couldn’t find where.
I went right tot he best. It was Sunday morning, but Billi stopped what he was doing and fixed us right up. Love them!”
(Photo/Adam Vengrow)
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Visitors can relive the golden age of Weston at The Peter Thorp House on Sunday (September 29, 4 to 7 p.m.).
The Weston History & Culture is hosting a fundraiser, with guided tours of the historic property, a cocktail party in the rose garden, a musical performance, and raffles.
Early bird tickets ($125) include 5 raffle tickets; click here.
The Pantry — the Fairfield market very popular with Westporters — has reopened, following a recent fire.
Owners were buoyed by support from local merchants. Westport’s Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center sent parsley, basil and edible flowers. Harry’s Wine & Liquor offered beer and wine for the clean-up crew. Other businesses helped too, Mary Condon reports.
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The only downside to Saturday’s LobsterFest were the spotted lanternflies covering trees at nearby Compo Beach South Beach.
They landed on a few attendees, who brushed them off, then squished them.
“You hate to do it, because they’re really so pretty,” one festival-goer said.
“But they really are gross.”
And invasive.
Here’s a “Westport … Naturally” photo of a dead lanternfly. It is indeed both pretty and gross.
And finally … songwriter Billy Edd Wheeler died this past week in North Carolina. He was 91. Click here for a full obituary, and click below for his most famous song.
(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution, to support our work. Thank you!)
A billion or so people watched Sunday’s European championship. (Spoiler alert: Spain beat England, 2-1).
Plenty of Westporters watched, all around town.
In New York, Kyle Martino threw a watch party for a couple of hundred of his closest friends.
Including Jason Sudeikis.
That’s right: One of the most famous soccer coaches in the world — aka Ted Lasso — was in the “No One Home” crowd.
That’s Martino’s latest brainchild: a soccer clubhouse/meeting place.
He’s had a storied career in the game: 1999 Gatorade National High School Player of the Year, while playing for Staples High School; MLS Rookie of the Year with the Columbus Crew; David Beckham’s teammate with the Los Angeles Galaxy; US men’s national team player; TV commentator (NBC Sports, Warner Brothers Discovery); creator of Goalpher (an innovative design that turns basketball courts into mini-soccer pitches), and founder of the Over Under Initiative, to bring the sport to underserved neighborhoods.
No One Home is at 141 Chrystie Street, on the Lower East Side. The place was hopping, all during the Euros and concurrent Copa América.
It will continue to grow, and attract fans of the beautiful game, all through the run-up to next year’s World Cup (hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico).
But don’t take our word for it. Check out Dave Briggs’ video below — and Kyle’s invitation to the “06880” community to visit.
“06880” has proudly chronicled the journey of Jake Sussman.
The Westport native struggled mightily with ADHD before graduating from the Forman School, then the University of Hartford.
He learned to advocate for himself — and went on to huge success.
As co-founder (with his brother Max) and president of Superpower Mentors, he connects men and women who have gone on the same journey he did, with people who are just learning how to cope with ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other learning differences.
The mentors provide guidance, advice and support based on their own lives. “They speak the same language,” Jake notes.
Now Star 99.9 has taken notice.
Jake was interviewed on Kevin & Jenna’s radio show. He told the back story of Superpower Mentors, and offered inspiring success stories.
Click here, then scroll down to listen to these very important 8 minutes.
Jake Sussman
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A storm moved in quickly yesterday afternoon. It dumped heavy rain for a few minutes, then departed just as suddenly.
Lawrence Zlatkin captured the scene over Cockenoe Island, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
(Photo/Lawrence Zlatkin)
Today’s forecast is for a high of 92. It will be mostly sunny, with the possibility of another stray afternoon rain storm.
And, once again, very humid.
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And finally … on this date in 1941, Joe DiMaggio hit safely for the 56th consecutive game. More than 80 years later, it is still an MLB record.
(Kyle Martino, Ted Lasso, Joe DiMaggio, Simon & Garfunkel, and Mrs. Robinson agree: If you enjoy “06880,” you should support it. Just click here, they say. They — and we — thank you!)
But what about American oystercatchers, the bird species whose nesting area is roped off and protected just west of the Compo Beach cannons? What happens when hundreds of people descend on the area for the pyrotechnics — which then go BOOM! for a solid half hour?
Jess Esposito Halka posted this yesterday, on Facebook’s “Westport Front Porch” page:
Please try to keep at least a 25-foot buffer along the fenced nesting area, so that staff are able to move freely around the fenced area to monitor the birds before and during the event.
Nothing should hang, hover or lean against or over the fencing. If something accidentally blows into the area and you need to retrieve it, please locate an Audubon staff member to retrieve the item.
“The area behind the nesting area (closer to the sidewalk) is still a safe place to set up. But please keep space between your belongings and the fence for staff and other attendees to walk by along the outside of the fence.
“Please avoid walk through the water below the fence.
“Thank you all so much for your extra efforts this season. It has made a significant difference.
This nesting pair of American oystercatchers are the only successful mainland breeders in the entire state this season, with 1 healthy 3-week-old chick!” (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)
Protect our American oystercatchers! (Photo/Jess Esposito Halka)
Thirteen years ago, People Magazine covered the marriage of actress Eva Amurri and Kyle Martino, the 1999 Staples High School graduate/former US men’s national team player.
The couple moved to Westport and had 3 children, but divorced 5 years ago.
Now People has covered her second marriage. This weekend, Amurri — the daughter of Susan Sarandon, who is also a lifestyle blogger and still lives here — married chef Ian Hock, in the Hudson Valley.
Hey! Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows the side that’s supposed to be recycled. Not the one you’re using!
(Photo/Robert Mitchell)
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And finally … Kinky Friedman — the singer/humorist/quasi-politician best known for his band, the provocatively named Texas Jewboys — died Thursday near Austin. He was 79, and suffered from Parkinson’s disease.
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.
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)
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!
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).
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.
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 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!)
Posted onMarch 18, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: March Madness, Irish Dancing, BMS Science Olympiad …
March Madness begins tomorrow.
There are many ways to follow the action.
One of the best is with Dave Briggs.
The veteran sports broadcaster — and longtime Westporter — hosts “Fast Break” for Turner Sports.
It’s essentially Red Zone for the NCAA tournament, with live game action, analysis, post-game reaction and social media moments.
Briggs’ co-hosts are Kentucky and Wake Forest legends Tony Delk and Randolph Childress, and former Georgia Tech head coach Josh Pastner.
The show is available at MarchMadness.com, and the “March Madness Live” app.
An hour-long pre-game show — “Max Bracket Breakdown” will be streamed via HBO Max from 11 a.m. to noon EDT Thursday and Friday, and 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
So who does Briggs like to win it all?
The University of Connecticut.
And he’s not just saying that out of home state pride.
“Like most people, I believe UConn is the best team in the country,” he says.
Clients at Homes with Hope’s food pantry got a special St. Patrick’s Day meal yesterday: corned beef, cabbage, and green cupcakes.
Then they enjoyed an extra-special treat: a performance from the Lenihan School of Irish Dance.
Five young dancers wowed the crowd with their talent, agility and energy. (And it was on the Gillespie Center floor — not an easy place to kick up your heels.)
Emma Rogers of Christ & Holy Trinity Church — who studied voice at Carnegie Mellon University — followed, with a stirring rendition of favorites like “Danny Boy.”
Church members — including Rev. Dylan Mello — helped serve and clean up.
It was a special day for the clients, and CEO Helen McAlinden: She’s a native of Ireland.
And her daughter was an Irish dance champion, back in the day and back in the old country.
Lenihan School of Dance performers. (Photo/Helen McAlinden)
Irish dancers Homes with Hope volunteers, staff and clients; CEO Helen McAlinden (yellow scarf) and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (green sweater), outside the Gillespie Center. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Speaking of champions (though off the playing field): Bedford Middle School students earned first place — and individual medals galore too — in Saturday’s Science Olympiad state competition in Coventry.
Dr. Daniel Cortright led 28 students, in 25 events.
BMS will now represent Connecticut at the national Science Olympiad competition at Michigan State University, May 24-25.
It’s familiar territory. BMS has been Connecticut’s state champ every year since 2018. They’ve been to national tournaments around the country. The team travels to competitions throughout the Northeast during the school year.
They’ll announce fundraising plans soon, to help with the costs of travel for the coaches, and subsidize team expenses.
Congratulations, BMS!
Bedford Middle School Science Olympiad team: state champs!
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Speaking (again of) sports: Congratulations to Caleb Smith and Adam Behrends.
They are the Walter Camp Football Foundation state Player and Coach of the Year, respectively. The duo — who helped Staples High School win the LL state championship in December — were honored Saturday, in New Haven.
Smith and Behrends earned the same honors earlier, from the New Haven Register.
Smith — who just ended his basketball season, and is getting ready for lacrosse — will continue his football career at the University of Connecticut. Next up is UConn, as a preferred walk-on player.
Adam Behrends and Caleb Smith, at the Walter Camp Foundation breakfast. (Photo/Dave Stewart for Hearst Connecticut Media)
Speaking (still) of sports: Congratulations too to the Staples boys lacrosse team.
The defending state champion Wreckers are ranked #1 in the nation, in Inside Lacrosse’s pre-season public schools poll. That puts them ahead of powerhouses like New York’s Manhasset and Garden City High Schools — and archrival and fellow FCIAC foe Darien.
Inside Lacrosse rates Staples #18 nationally in the poll that includes both public and private schools.
Click here for the public school-only story. Click here for the public and private school story.
The first game is April 4, vs. Archbishop Stepinac High School of White Plains (5:30 p.m., Paul Lane Field).
The 2023 state champion Staples boys lacrosse team. (Photo collage/Jada Mirabelle for CIAC Sports)
Speaking of (it doesn’t end) sports: The 15th annual “Kicking + Screening” festival was held in New York.
But plenty of Westporters were involved in the event, which featured 11 film features and shorts, plus panels, special guests and more.
The venue was Football Cafe, the Lower East Side “soccer cultural center” founded by Kyle Martino.
He’s the 1999 Staples graduate — and former Gatorade National High School Player of the Year, MLS Rookie of the Year, US men’s national team player and NBC Sports Premier League broadcaster. Kyle is now a soccer analyst with Warner Brothers Discovery Sports.
“Kicking + Screening” was co-founded by Rachel Markus, a Westport resident. Since 2009, she’s grown it into a huge event, with films and speakers from around the world.
She and co-founder Greg Lalas have hosted festivals in London, Liverpool, Rio de Janeiro, Amsterdam and Abu Dhabi, Kerala (India).
Several Westporters were at the very cool Football Cafe space, including Greg Guido and Julie Blume, and others who read about the event on “06880” and wanted to see the films, and Westport’s most famous soccer star.
From left: Kyle Martino, Julie Blume, Rachel Markus and Greg Guido, at Football Cafe.
Yesterday’s “Roundup” said that the Staples Tuition Grants Fun Run is for youngsters in grades 3 through 5.
In fact, it’s for kids ages 3 through grade 5.
The event is April 6 (8 to 10 a.m., Paul Lane Field at Staples). Registration is just $25. All proceeds benefit STG.
The morning includes races, a bounce house, face painting, temporary tattoos, a bake sale and raffle.
Medals will be awarded to winners at each age level. Pre-K is a 25-yard dash; kindergartners and 1st graders run a 50-yard dash; 2nd through 5th graders race 100 yards.
Click here to register for the run. Everyone who signs up by Thursday gets a free t-shirt. Information can be found on Instagram (@stgfunrun).
As pressure mounts on young athletes to be more competitive than ever, Sebastian Little says: Enough!
The leadership coach — who works with clients in MLB, the NBA and NHL, and is in his 3rd year as Yale University football’s performance coach — will speak on a Westport Public Schools and Westport Together panel called “For the Love of the Game: How Parents Can Promote Successful Athletes on and Off the Field.”
The session — for parents and coaches — will offer insights and strategies into “balancing competition with compassion and growth with enjoyment.”
The event is on Tuesday, March 5 (7 p.m., Bedford Middle School auditorium). Click here to register.
Speaking of sports: The Staples boys basketball team is in the FCIAC (league) final for the 2nd time in 2 years tonight.
The #4-seed Wreckers — fresh off Tuesday’s huge upset over #1 Ridgefield — are playing for the championship for the 2nd straight year. Tip-off is 7 p.m. at Wilton High, against Trumbull.
Staples fell to Danbury in last year’s title match (and then went on a great run, to the state Division II final).
But it’s been a while since the Westporters last won the FCIAC crown. 61 years, in fact. Their first — and only — league championship came in 1963.
Charlie Scott — Staples’ talented senior video producer/WWPT-FM announcer — has created another superb pump-up video. Click below to see:
Last night’s winds knocked out power in a few areas of Westport and Weston.
Trees and wires were down at 15 Partrick Road, 119 Hillandale Road and 30 Prospect Road.
Outages affected the Greens Farms and Wilton Road neighborhoods.
At 8:30 a.m., 78 Westport customers (0.61%) were without power. There were 105 outages (2.66%) in Weston. The total number statewide was 3,399 (0.26%).
Wires down at South Morningside Drive and Hillandale Road. At 8:30 a.m., crews were on the scene. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)
Dara Horn forcefully addressed the recent rise of antisemitism last night, at Chabad of Westport.
Dara Horn — author of “People Love Dead Jews” — headlined the event, part of Chabad’s Critical Conversations series. Nearly 200 people attended.
“People ask: Are Jews a race, a religion, or a nationality? she said.
“Jews existed before these structures existed. What is clear is Jewish civilization is indigenous to the land of Israel. It’s not a political statement. It’s fact.
“People want to erase Jewish culture, but instead that is exactly what needs to be explained and taught to ensure its survival.”
Dara Horn, at Chabad of Westport. (Photo and hat tip/Matthew Mandell)
Her fans know here as Jean Louisa Kelly. Her Westport neighbors and friends call her Jean Pitaro.
Whatever name she goes by, Jean is featured at the Westport Country Playhouse’s first Mic in Hand of 2024. She takes the stage April 4 (7 p.m.).
Jean’s stage and screen credits include the original Broadway cast of “Into the Woods,: and the movies “Mr. Holland’s Opus,” “Uncle Buck” and “Top Gun: Maverick.”
Her uplifting show will be a journey through her life in and out of show business, with songs from “Gypsy,” “The Fantasticks,” “Next to Normal” and “Company.”
All tickets are $40. Click here to purchase, and learn more. Proceeds benefit education programming at the Playhouse.
Also new at the Playhouse: the first Barnstormer event.
It’s “Ann Talman: Elizabeth Taylor and the Shadow of Her Smile” (April 21, 7 p.m.).
Broadway veteran Talman portrayed Taylor’s daughter on Broadway in “The Little Foxes,” beginning a lifelong friendship.
This show is an evening of story and song about Ann and Elizabeth’s bond.
All tickets are $20. Click here to purchase, and learn more.
Called “Jewels of Westport,” they visit the hidden — or at least lesser-known — gems of our town.
On Tuesday they toured Westport Public Art Collections’ Town Hall display.
Overall, WestPAC’s collection includes over 2,000 artistic treasures. Many are in schools, where they are enjoyed by students and staff, yet often unseen by the public.
But how many of us walk by all the art on the Town Hall walls, without giving it a second glance?
The Y’s Women Town Hall tour was led by WestPAC co-president Anne Boberski. It was “eye-opening,” for sure.
Anne Boberski leads the Y’s Women Westport Permanent Art Collections tour in Town Hall.
Westport Police made 6 custodial arrests between February 21 and 28.
One — reported earlier — was for larceny, in connection with the theft of 5 Israel flag yard signs in December.
One was for larceny, illegal use of a credit card, identity theft, criminal impersonation and forgery, following a February 7 complaint that a mailed check was stolen, altered from $830 to $18,300 and deposited.
A woman was arrested for criminal attempt at larceny, identity theft and forgery, after a complaint in April 2022 that a check had been stolen from a US Postal Service box on Myrtle Avenue, altered from $250 to $4,300, and attempted to be cashed.
Another woman was arrested for criminal attempt at larceny, larceny and identity theft, following a complaint in January that a check had been stolen, altered and cashed.
A man was arrested after he and a juvenile shoplifted $492 worth of groceries from Stop & Shop. They were found with the bags at the HomeGoods bus stop. The man was charged with larceny, criminal impersonation and failure to appear. The juvenile was issued a summons and released.
One woman was arrested for failure to appear.
Police also issued these citations:
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 5 citations
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
Kicking + Screening is a film festival dedicated solely to soccer. (Now do you get the clever name?)
It returns next month for its 15th year in New York. But it’s very much a Westport production.
Current Westport resident Rachel Markus co-founded Kicking + Screening in 2009, with former professional player Greg Lalas.
Always an avid fan (and a ruthless striker), Rachel studied film at New York University. She has worked in the film industry for over 2 decades.
The other local connection: This year’s festival will be held at Football Cafe, the Lower East Side “soccer cultural center” founded by Kyle Martino.
He’s the 1999 Staples graduate — and former Gatorade National High School Player of the Year, MLS Rookie of the Year, US men’s national team player and NBC Sports Premier League broadcaster. Kyle is now a soccer analyst with Warner Brothers Discovery Sports.
The 2024 festival lineup — 11 features and shorts, plus panels, special guests and more from March 14 to 16 — includes Eric Cantona’s Manchester United biography, “The United Way.” Click here for more information, and tickets.
Norwalk Hospital — once independent, now part of Nuvance Health — may soon become part of a larger group.
Nuvance — owner of 4 Connecticut hospitals, and 3 in New York — plans to merge with Northwell Health. They are New York State’s largest healthcare provider and private employer, with more than 81,000 employees.
Together, the companies will own 28 hospitals, and more than 1,000 other care sites.
In 2019, Ruth Sherman was an “06880” Unsung Hero of the Week.
At 79 years old, she had just returned from a 100-mile spiritual trek in Spain.
We hailed her for her civic work — teaching exercise and fitness at the Westport Weston Family Y, Senior Center and Arthritis Foundation family aquatics program.
We noted that every day for 50 years — in all kinds of weather — Ruth walked from Hillspoint Road to the top of Compo Hill.
She’s now in her mid-80s. And she’s still walking.
Tammy Barry spotted her yesterday. The weather was meh, but there was Ruth, getting in her (many) steps.
Tammy writes: “Ruth walks in rainy, snowy, and sunny weather. What a beautiful woman, on the inside and out!
“She is an inspiration and role model for us all. She told me she wakes up every day and never has a complaint— it’s not allowed. Keep on moving and grooving. Ruth!”
Tammy sent a great photo too.
So — apropos of nothing, and everything — here’s another “06880” to the indefatigable, wonderful Ruth Sherman!
And finally … do you know how hard it is to find a leap year song?!
I’ve spent my February 29 searching the internet. This will have to do.
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