Tag Archives: Kyle Martino

Roundup: Kyle Martino, Zohran Mamdani, Dick Fincher …

Posted on May 13, 2026 | 8 comments

Hey, Westport: There’s a problem in town. Recycling contamination is rampant.

Sp the Department of Public Works has launched a campaign to educate residents on proper practices.

Six days a week, residents and private haulers bring recyclables to the transfer station. The next stop is a waste recovery facility in Shelton, where it’s sorted, then sold as commodities to manufacturers for reuse.

Some materials arrive clean, dry and loose. Others don’t. Containers filled with leftover food and cardboard boxes still packed with Styrofoam are common issues.

Small changes can make a big difference.

The 3 major sources of contamination are easy to remember: “No Bags, No Food, No Foam.”

No Bags: Never place recyclables in plastic bags. Although it may seem convenient, all bagged recycling must be discarded at the Materials Recovery Facility due to OSHA safety regulations.

No Food: Empty and rinse all containers before recycling. Food and liquid residue can contaminate entire loads, causing them to be rejected.

No Foam: Styrofoam cannot be recycled in our area. Dispose of it in the trash, and remove packing materials from boxes before recycling them. Styrofoam easily breaks apart and spreads, contaminating other recyclables.

DPW director Pete Ratkiewich says, “Improper recycling creates additional processing costs for the town — costs that are ultimately passed on to residents. By following these simple guidelines, you can help keep Westport’s recycling program efficient and cost-effective.”

Rinse thoroughly before recycling!

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Yesterday’s item about tickets for Staples High School’s Pops Concert (Friday, June 5), included confusing information on the day tickets are available online.

You can order tickets beginning at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 22. Click here for the link. Remember: first-come, first-served!

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Kyle Martino is many things.

At Staples High School he was the 1999 Gatorade High School Soccer Player of the Year. He was MLS Rookie of the Year, and earned 8 caps with the US men’s national team. He’s one of the best soccer broadcasters around, and the inventor of Goalpher, an innovation that turns basketball courts into mini-pitches.

Oh, yeah: Kyle, who now lives back in Westport, also created Street FC. They host street-style pickup games in unexpected spaces, from basketball and tennis courts to rooftops and empty lots, making it easy for anyone to show up and play.

Who showed up the other day with Kyle, on a Bronx street?

Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Wearing an Arsenal jersey, he joined Kyle — and a gang of kids — in an impromptu game.

Click here or below, to watch.

PS: Who has better skills: Kyle or the mayor?

It’s actually pretty close.

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Former Tree Board chair Dick Fincher died in 2024. Over many decades he contributed greatly to Westport, in many ways.

One was as a driving force behind the Lillian Wadsworth Arboretum, adjacent to Earthplace and just a few steps from his Old Hill home.

Soon, the Tree Board will honor him with a plaque, celebrating his dedication and love in creating the 12-acre park, then maintaining and caring for it.

Volunteers will reclaim a small area overtaken by invasives. Fittingly, it’s a spot Dick often watered, tending to daffodils and jack-in-the-pulpits.

Dick Fincher, at the Wadsworth Arboretum. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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The “Shake It For Shea” online auction is now live.

Whether you’ll be at tomorrow’s 4th annual gala (Thursday, 7:30 p.m., The Knowlton, Bridgeport)  to raise money for Long QT Syndrome research at Mayo Clinic through Project Shea — Westporter Mark and Kira Greenfield’s great cause — or not, everyone can click here to bid.

Highlights include:

Golf: Grove XXIII, Winged Foot, Sleepy Hollow, Quaker Ridge, Philadelphia Cricket Club and more.

New York Knicks: First row seats at Madison Square Garden, a private shooting clinic at your home court with Allan Houston, a round of golf with John Starks and Larry, or watching a road game alongside Stephon Marbury.

Entertainment: A live taping of “Watch What Happens Live” with Andy Cohen, 2 tickets to “& Juliet” on Broadway, a “Dancing with the Stars” taping, or VIP access to a closed-door Broadway show reading.

Dining: Dinner for 4 at Carbone NYC, the tasting menu at Blue Hill at Stone Barns, an 8-person in-home dinner cooked by celebrity chef Chris Nirschel, and more.

Travel: A week in a brand-new 4-bedroom villa in Cap Cana with a private chef and staff, plus stays at Ocean House, Brazilian Court Palm Beach, Plaza Athenee, Commodore Perry Estate, and more.

Sports memorabilia: Authenticated autographed pieces from Eli Manning, Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, Malik Nabers, Ray Lewis, Cal Raleigh, Paul Skenes and many more.

And those are just some of the great items.

Every dollar raised goes toward Long QT Syndrome research at Mayo Clinic through Project Shea.

The Shake It For Shea fundraiser.

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There’s plenty of purple in the photo above — and a ton of fuchsia in the “Westport … Naturally” image below:

(Photo/Niki van Praag)

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And finally … happy 76th birthday to the great (and ageless) Stevie Wonder!

We could have picked dozens of great songs. Here are just 3:

(It would be “wonder”-ful if every reader supported “06880.” Or just half! Or a quarter, even. Please click here to show some love for this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Environment, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Dog Festival, Judy Garland, Staples Pops Concert …

Posted on May 7, 2026 | 3 comments

The Westport Dog Festival celebrates 10 years on Sunday, May 17.

That’s 70 dog years.

The annual Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event is once again set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m, at every dog’s favorite spot: Winslow Park..

As always there will be goofy competitions, Police K-9 presentations, an obstacle course, kids’ activities, food trucks and more.  Gilbert the Party Pig returns too, for children to pet and feed.

There are prizes for best tail wagger, best dressed, best kisser, best trick, best lap dog over 50 pounds, and dog that most looks like its owner.

There will be adoptables too, and information about non-profits.

Surrounding the main activities are over 60 pet-related vendors, picture taking, caricatures, face painting, games, giveaways and food trucks. WEBE 108 will broadcast live.

This year the entrance fee is cashless: credit card and Apple Pay only ($10 per person, $30 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children).

Proceeds benefit nonprofit organizations. So farm over $50,000 has been donated by the Chamber to deserving groups. Click here for more information.

These guys can’t wait to come to the Dog Festival again. (Photo/Charlie Scott)

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It’s been 86 years since Judy Garland sang “Over the Rainbow.” It — and she — are as beloved as ever.

On June 17 (7 p.m.), the Westport Country Playhouse presents “Get Happy!” –Jenna Pastuszek and Broadway’s Joshua Zecher Ross’ 103rd birthday celebration of the great entertainer.

It’s not an impersonation. It’s a playlist filled with beloved classics and forgotten gems, from “The Wizard of Oz,” “Easter Parade,” Judy Live at Carnegie Hall and much more.

Tickets go on sale today (Thursday) at noon. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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For a song, you can support the Staples High School music program.

The always-spectacular Pops Concert is June 5 (7 p.m, Levitt Pavilion). As always, it’s free — a gift from the Music Department to the town.

But it costs a lot to produce. Which is why local businesses might consider buying an ad in the program book.

Over 400 young musicians are enriched by Staples’ award-winning program. To reach them — and their parents, and everyone else at the Pops — click here to place an ad (or learn more). The deadline is May 22.

Questions? Email staples.music.parents.assn+ads@gmail.com.

Tons of Pops-goers will see your ad.

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Kyle Martino did not learn soccer in the streets of Westport.

But the 1999 Staples High graduate — and Gatorade High School Player of the Year, MLS Rookie of the Year and US men’s national team player, who has gone on to become a broadcaster and soccer entrepreneur — credits pick-up games with athletes of all ages as being a formative part of his development.

So Martino — who recently moved back to Westport — created Street FC. The app hosts street-style pickup games in unexpected spaces, from basketball and tennis courts to rooftops and empty lots, making it easy for anyone to show up and play.

The idea is so good, Martino won $250,000 on “Shark Tank” this winter.

The newest court will launch soon, right up the road. It’s at Goooal Sports (1791 Stratford Ave, Stratford).

Your first game is free. Just download the Street FC app here. Make an account, select “Bridgeport,” then find a game that works for  your schedule and skill level.

See you on the pitch!

Street FC in Stratford.

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The next meeting of the Westport Book Shop’s Short Story Club is May 27 (6 p.m.).

With Mother’s Day approaching, the selections’ theme is appropriate: mothers and children. They are:

  • “Hell–Heaven” by Jhumpa Lahiri
  • “Housewifely Arts” by Megan Mayhew Bergman
  • “Wisconsin” by Lisa Taddeo

Registration is required, as space is limited. Call 203-349-5141, or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

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Hot on the heels of the Artemis success, the Westport Astronomical Society gets ready for a lecture on “Robotic Planetary Landers.”

Erik Bailey, aerospace engineer and veteran of multiple US Mars landings, will join remotely to survey humanity’s landings on other worlds: the moon, Venus, mars, Titan, Comet 67P, and asteroids Eros, Ryugu and Bennu.

The Bayberry Lane classroom will be open for the May 19 (8 p.m.) event. The talk will also be live-streamed on YouTube and via Zoom Webinar.

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Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests between April 29 and May 5.

A 30-year-old Danbury woman was charged with larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny and risk of injury to a child, following a March shoplifting incident at Ulta Beauty. Total loss due to theft was estimated at $3,157, with some items being put in a stroller. She was held on a $60,000 bond.

Two Waterbury men, ages 20 and 19, were charged with conspiracy to commit larceny of a motor vehicle, after being observed on the Sherwood Island Connecticut. Both posted $7,500 bonds. A 17-year-old juvenile was also involved, and released to a parent.

A 37-year-old Philadelphia man was charge with failure to appear. He was released on a $25,000 bond.

A 32-year-old Brooklyn man was charged with failure to appear, after being incarcerated in New Jersey.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Texting while driving: 29 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 6
  • School zone violation: 6
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 4
  • Failure to renew registration: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
  • Distracted driving: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 2
  • Speeding: 1
  • School zone violation, 2nd offense: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

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We’re used to seeing ducks in the Saugatuck River.

In our backyard — not so much.

But these 2 mallards have been hanging out at Tracy Porosoff’s house.

They’re happy as clams ducks. And pleased as punch to pose for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … we’ve run this clip before.

But — as noted in the item above about Judy Garland’s upcoming Westport Country Playhouse “appearance,” it never gets old.

(Follow the yellow brick road … all the way to here, where you can easily and quickly — make a donation to “06880.” It doesn’t take a brain, heart or courage — just one click. Thank you all!)

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Posted in Arts, Local business, Police, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Saugatuck Water, Longshore Beer, Sporting Toasts …

Posted on January 23, 2026 | 1 comment

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.

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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.

Click here or below, to watch the reveal:

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Speaking of sports: Congratulations to Sarah VonDohlen!

The Greens Farms Academy senior basketball star set what is almost certainly a state — and may be a New England record last Saturday.

Play at home in the Coyle Gym against Cheshire, she drained 11 3-point shots in the Dragons’ 76-30 romp.

With 33 points, Sarah outscored the entire opposition.

Her 11 3s were appropriate: That’s her jersey number.

PS: Want to see Sarah and her teammates in action? GFA hosts Kent this afternoon, at 5:15 p.m.

Sarah VonDohlen (#11), with teammates.

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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)

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The other day, a bobcat wandered right up to Mark Laclair’s mudroom door.

Then he posed, for this “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Mark Laclair)

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And finally … yesterday’s water situation in Saugatuck reminds us of:

(Want to ensure that “06880”‘s well does not run dry? Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Longshore, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Sports, Staples HS, Weather

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Roundup: LGBTQ Sports Hall Of Fame, Shark Tank, Free America …

Posted on January 21, 2026 | 67 comments

I don’t often post personal news. But several people insisted I include this, so here goes:

 

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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.

Click here for an Instagram reel of Martino’s pitch.

Kyle Martino, on “Shark Tank.”

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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 Sweet Remains

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DanceBody has shimmied into Westport.

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.”

DanceBody began in New York City. This is its first suburban studio. For more information, click here.

DanceBody

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What’s ahead at MoCA\CT?

Plenty. The calendar includes:

“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.

“Film Screening of Eva Hesse, with a Q&A with filmmaker Marcie Begleiter” (February 6, 6 p.m.): Documentary on the life and impact of an influential sculptor.

“Westport Writers Workshop, with Amanda Parrish Morgan & Liz Matthews”
Inspired by the current Mo\CA exhibit. Attendees will write from what draws them in, and share work in an encouraging, creative environment. All writers are welcome — “no pressure, just possibility.”

“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.

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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.

Tickets are $30. Click here to purchase.

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Our “Westport … Naturally” winter wonderland series continues today, with this spectacular capture by the great Alison Wachstein:

(Photo/Alison Wachstein)

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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!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Local business, Politics, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Eartha Kitt, Zohran Mamdani, Kyle Martino …

Posted on December 13, 2025 | 4 comments

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?

You don’t have to give hundreds of thousands of dollars, like the WWC. But if you’d like to donate something, click here. The life you save may be your own.

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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.

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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.

Residents can support the program through:

  • Online donations at www.westportct.gov/donate
  • Mailing contributions to: Westport Department of Human Services
    Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880
  • Dropping off donations at Town Hall by appointment (203-341-1050).

Residents seeking assistance may contact Human Services at 203-341-1050 or humansrv@westportct.gov. For program questions, email adaugelli@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-1183.

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Hanukkah begins tomorrow, at sundown.

Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — is ready.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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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.

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Another day, another coyote.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from Leigh Gage. She spotted this “large German shepherd-sized” creature mid-afternoon yesterday, on Manitou Road.

“He saw me, but just kept trotting,” Leigh says.

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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!)

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Posted in Local business, Obituaries, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Top Hat Tutors, Tuesdays With Morrie, Top Tier Soccer Stars …

Posted on August 23, 2025 | 2 comments

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.”

The first of 6 productions, “Tuesday’s with Morrie” runs from September 4 to 6. Broadway legend Len Cariou stars in the show. Click here for show times, tickets and more information.

Len Cariou (Photo/Walter Van Dyck)

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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.

Now, even David Beckham knows of the Wreckers.

Or at least one of them.

Kyle Martino (left) and David Beckham.

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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.

A fine day all around!

(Photo/Robin Hammond)

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22 Maple Avenue North — a house that has fallen into disrepair, most recently in the news when a rear wall collapsed — is due for demolition.

A sign has been placed outside the 1950s-era home, on the corner of Old Road.

(Photo/Jack Krayson)

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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.

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Dogs usually love car rides.

They leap in, then stick their heads out the window as the air rushes by.

Not this guy.

In the dog days of August though, he’s our pick for today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured image.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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And finally … today is the birthday of Keith Moon.

The legendary Who drummer was born in 1946. He died in 1978, from an overdose of a drug intended to treat or prevent symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

He led a short, chaotic life. But he left some great drumming behind.

(Who are you? Hopefully, someone who supports “06880”: your hyper-local, 24/7/365 blog. Please click here if you are one of those. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Westoberfest, Kyle Martino, Burying Hill …

Posted on September 23, 2024 | 3 comments

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.

We’ll drink to that!

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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:

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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.

All proceeds benefit Reproductive Equity Now.

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Regular visitors to Burying Hill Beach know that the entrance road floods routinely.

But the breadth of yesterday’s water — particularly in the absence of any rain — surprised even veteran beach-goers.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

As with Saturday’s flooding at Quentin Road and Compo Beach Road, we may be heading into a new “new normal.”

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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.

Peter Thorp House garden.

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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.

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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!)

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Roundup: Kyle Martino & Ted Lasso, Jake Sussman & Star 99 …

Posted on July 16, 2024 | 1 comment

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.

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“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!)

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Roundup: Longshore Cleanup, American Oystercatchers, Port-a-potties …

Posted on July 1, 2024 | 7 comments

Yesterday, “06880” offered tips on keeping pets safe and calm during tomorrow’s fireworks.

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)

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Speaking of the environment: Longshore Sailing School cares about the water — and the coast.

On Saturday, they sponsored a coastal cleanup.

Kayaks were free — so long as kayakers removed garbage and debris from the shoreline and Saugatuck River.

Nearly 4 dozen concerned cleaner-uppers found dozens of golf balls — presumably from the nearby driving range at Hendrick’s Point.

Two folks found industrial construction material. They won t-shirts, for the largest trash pickup of the day.

From golf balls to building materials: Thank you, all who helped.

And thanks to  Longshore Sailing School too!

PS: Don’t worry. They’ve sponsored these events before. There will be more to come.

And more trash, unfortunately, to haul out.

Kayak cleanup (Hat tip and photo/Brandon Malin)

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We’re just a day away from the fireworks.

This morning, one of the most important parts of the preparation began:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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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.

Click here for the full story.

Eva Amurri and Ian Hock (Photo/Taralynn Lawson for People magazine)

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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.

Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on support from readers like you. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

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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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