Tag Archives: La Plage restaurant

Roundup: Parks & Rec Programs, 1st Day Of School, Westport Community Theatre …

Posted on August 26, 2025 | Comments Off on Roundup: Parks & Rec Programs, 1st Day Of School, Westport Community Theatre …

A technical glitch prevented yesterday’s Instagram Live conversation with Independent Party 1st selectman candidate David Rosenwaks. “06880” apologizes to those who tuned in.

A new date will be announced soon.

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It’s the first day of school. Which means: Parks & Recreation Department fall (and winter!) program signups are around the corner.

They begin at 9 a.m. next Wednesday, September 3. Don’t snooze — some go fast.

Programs include fall tennis, youth soccer, baseball clinics, multi-sport clinics, youth basketball, ice skating and swimming.

Click here to see the full program lineup.

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For a couple of decades now on the first day of school, Pamela Long has taken a photo of elementary school children waiting at the Juniper Road/Caccamo Lane bus stop.

The faces may change, but the anticipation is always the same. Here is this year’s shot:

(Photo/Pamela Long)

Have a great year, kids.

And parents: Savor the moment. In a week or two, you’ll be dropping them off at college.

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For 68 years, the Westport Community Theatre — a black box-style space in the lower level of Town Hall — has entertained local audiences.

Whether you’re a longtime audience member, or have never heard of it — read on for details for the 2025-26 season. It includes comedy and drama, and new plays and modern classics.

“Dooley at the Bar” (September 12-28): At the height of the Gilded Age, America’s favorite news analyst was Mr. Dooley — a fictitious bartender created by humorist Finley Peter Dunne. At his hole-in-the-wall tavern Mr. Dooley takes on robber barons, newspapers, political corruption, and a new century, in a hilarious one-man show.

“Conscience” (November 14-30): Connecticut premiere. In the 1950s, as Senator Joseph McCarthy rose to power through fear and intimidation, one Republican senator – Margaret Chase Smith of Maine – stood against him. This is the story of a remarkable woman who refused to back down.

“Happy Days,” by Samuel Beckett (January 30-February 15): Winnie is a middle-aged married woman determined to make the best of an absurd situation, by finding joy in little things, and hoping to catch the attention of her oblivious husband.

“The Savannah Sipping Society” (April 10-26): Four Southern women – an unemployed workaholic, a lonely widow, a boisterous good ol’ gal, and a life coach – are drawn together by fate (and an impromptu happy hour).

“The Matchmaker,” by Thornton Wilder (June 12-28). In 19th-century New York, wealthy widower and merchant Horace Vandergelder hopes to marry the milliner Irene Molloy. He turns to Dolly Levi for help, but she wants Horace for herself.

A 5-play subscription is $130 – that’s 5 plays for the price of 4 if purchased individually. Subscriptions include priority seating, and 2 bonus tickets to introduce friends to the theatre. Click here for details, or call 203-226-1983.

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La Plage — the Longshore restaurant — will close after Labor Day for the season.

They’ll reopen in early summer next year. The adjacent Inn at Longshore begins its remodeling project November 1.

The Inn and La Plage are part of the Delamar hospitality group. Dandelion — the new Westport hotel’s restaurant — holds a job fair today (Tuesday, noon to 4 p.m.0 for many positions.

A pre-opening cocktail party is set there for September 6. Organized by realtor Judy Michaelis, it’s a fundraiser for Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service. Click here for tickets.

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The Planning & Zoning Commission meets tomorrow (Wednesday, 7 a.m. — yes, that time is correct — in Town Hall Room 201).

They are expected to immediately vote to go into an executive session to discuss pending litigation: ROAN Development Ventures vs. the P&Z, regarding the Hamlet at Saugatuck project.

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Tom Kretsch is one of Westport’s most talented, and favorite, photographers.

His exhibit “A Symphony of Color” is on display in the Westport Library’s South Gallery now through October 5.

Tomorrow (Wednesday) is the opening reception. The 6 p.m. event will be followed by a 7 p.m. conversation between him and Artists Collective of Westport co-founder Miggs Burroughs.

The Library says, “Kretsch’s background as an educator and lifelong traveler informs his ability to see beauty in the simple and the small. Whether he’s photographing New England, further afield or right here in Westport, his work speaks to his genre of peaceful places.” Click here for more details.

(Photos/Tom Kretsch)

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Congratulations to Team Schur — champions of this year’s resurrected Monday night men’s basketball league at Compo Beach.

A crowd of 50 people — including Staples head coach Dave Goldshore and associate head coach Chris Pickens — watched the title game. The scoe was 66-43.

The champions’ roster includes Jordan Schur, Travis Test, Noah Hammond, Zach But, Don Snyder, Connor Whelan, Kevin Cline, Brandon Barton and Michael Smith.

The champs: Team Schur.

Action from the finals. (Photo/Eric Bosch)

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The fall Jazz at the Post season begins Thursday (September 4, VFW Post 399) — a few days before fall, but who’s counting?

It’s “Piano Madness,” with Janice Friedman, Mike Campenni, Dave Kingsnorth and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Shows are 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Dinner service begins at 7. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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One Bad Oyster brings ska, surf and happiness to the Weston History & Culture Center’s outdoor summer concert series “Music at the Barn” on Sunday, September 7 (5:30 to 7 p.m.).

Guests should bring a lawn chair, and their own beverages. Tony Pizza Napolitano will be selling thin crust pizzas. Members of the Weston History & Culture Center receive a complimentary glass of beer or wine.

Tickets are available at the door or in advance online.

Music at the Barn: Weston History & Culture Center.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is truly “red, white and blue”:

(Photo/Bob Mitchell)

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And finally … in honor of 2 of the plays in the upcoming Westport Community Theatre seeason (story above):

(Happy days are here again … when you click here to support “06880.” Oy!)

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Pic Of The Day #3004

Posted on July 10, 2025 | 1 comment

View from La Plage, at Longshore (Photo/Nicole Ryan)

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Roundup: Baby Deer, Sunday Gravy, Clubhouse Mural …

Posted on May 20, 2025 | 1 comment

Animal control officer Joe Saponare asks residents: “Please stay away from a baby deer at Grace Salmon Park, on Imperial Avenue.

“The mother deer is close by. But she will not come for her baby, with a lot of people around it.

“Please keep your dogs on a leash there too, for the next few days.”

Animal control officer Joe Saponare, with baby deer.

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“Sunday Gravy” has rapidly become one of the most popular talk shows on WICC-AM  and 95.9 FM.

Hosts Chris O’Dell, Mac DeVito and Brian Philpott banter easily about “men’s lifestyle” topics. But they dive deeply into serious issues, and address them with nuance and perspective.

The topic this past Sunday was the non-renewal of Staples boys soccer head coach Russell Oost-Lievense.

O’Dell had a special interest in it: The longtime freshman coach was also not renewed.

But the show was not a gripe session. It focused on process and policies — and broader implications, for Staples and Westport.

You can listen here. (NOTE: The actual show starts about 8 minutes in, following the news.)

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Residents of Wilton Road between Partrick Road and River Lane heard an enormous boom yesterday afternoon. The ground shook.

The wind brought down an enormous oak tree, and entangled power lines. Dozens of customers lost power.

Wilton Road was closed for several hours.

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In just a couple of months, The Clubhouse has become Westport’s go-to spot for golf-and-more simulators, huge screen TV sports, karaoke, good food, corporate meetings, parties, and a rooftop lounge.

Now there’s more: a big new mural.

This was the scene the other day, as the colorful work took place:

(Photo/Michael Chait)

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It’s easy to feel disconnected.

Whether working remotely, recently retired, or an empty nester, it’s easy to lose touch with community life.

The Westport Weston Family Y’s new Storied Connections Program is a fun and meaningful way to reconnect, by sharing stories about professional journeys (based on weekly prompts).

The member-led sessions are held Wednesdays, from noon to 1 p.m. through June 11. More details, and a link to register are here.

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Ed Simek drove by the Country Store on Wilton Road the other day.

He was surprised at all the yard signs.

And, he points out: “It’s not even election season!”

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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As renovations of the Inn at Longshore continue, La Plage — the adjacent restaurant — is now open 7 days a week. The patio is also open (weather dependent).

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Drummer Matt Wilson is well recognized for his style. He is also a gifted composer, bandleader, producer and teaching artist.

Bassist Harvie S has appeared on over 400 recordings as a sideman, 20 of his own albums, and another 15 as co-leader. He has played with nearly every major jazz artist over the past 45 years.

Both musicians — along with pianist Luis Perdomo and saxophonist Greg Wall — bring their talents to this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7; music cover $20; $15 for veterans and students). Reservations are available here.

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Today’s way-too-cute “Westport … Natrually” feature comes hopping along, from Wendy Levy’s yard:

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

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And finally … on this day in 1927=, Charles Lindbergh took off for Paris from Roosevelt Field in Long Island. His Spirit of St. Louis landed in Paris 33 1/2 hours later: the first nonstop solo flight across the Atlantic.

More than 2 decades later, he, his wife Anne Morrow Lindbergh and family arrived on Long Lots Road. They lived there for several years, near the Fairfield border, before moving to Darien.

(“06880” will be as lucky as Lindy, if you click here to donate to Westport’s hyper-local blog. Thank you!

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Roundup: Crepes Choupette, La Plage, Riko’s …

Posted on October 18, 2024 | 1 comment

Westport’s newest restaurant — Crêpes Choupette — opened Wednesday in Bedford Square, to eager crowds.

The crêperie –owner Adil Chokairy’s third, after New Haven and Darien — adds one more international cuisine to Church Lane.

It’s a couple of doors down from an Israeli restaurant (The Blondinit), and across the street from Pink Sumo (sushi) and the Spotted Horse (American).

Choupette ribbon cutting … (Photo courtesy of Sam Disraelly)

… and customers inside. (Photo/Karen Como)

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Club203 — Westport’s social group for adults with developmental differences — held a great Halloween Bingo night Wednesday at the Senior Center.

Nearly 140 guests played (many in Halloween costumes). They enjoyed subs from Planet Pizza, cookies by Big G, mac & cheese thanks to the Senior Center’s own Holly Betts, pumpkin decorating by MoCA CT, and tons of candy from an anonymous donor.

Club203 thanks Wendy Petty and the Senior Center for hosting, along with the volunteers  who give time, energy and talents — plus a special shout-out to special guests Fire Chief Nick Marsan and the Westport Fire Department’s Jennifer Petrosinelli, who shared information about the town’s Community Connect program. It provides household information to first responders — including, for example, details about people with disabilities who live there.

Club203 bingo, at the Senior Center.

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Speaking of the Fire Department: They’ve partnered once again with Bridgeport Rescue Mission, for the annual “Share the Warmth” Coat Drive.

Chief Nick Marsan notes, “This drive impacts hundreds of men, women and children from some of the area’s most distressed neighborhoods. A coat may seem simple, but it’s essential for many children and adults in nearby communities.”

 The WFD welcomes donations of new or gently used (and clean) winter coats, hats, mittens/gloves, and snow suits at these sites, through November 12:

  • Westport Fire Headquarters (515 Post Road East)
  • Senior Center: (21 Imperial Avenue)
  • Town Hall (110 Myrtle Avenue)

Collection boxes will also be placed at public schools. Once collected, Westport firefighters will sort and transport items to the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.

Deputy Fire Marshal Rob Lenois, president of the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation, says, “This drive allows us to give back and ease the burdens on local families. Last year, thanks to the generosity of this community, we distributed over 1,350 coats.”

(From left): Fire Chief Nick Marsan, volunteer Anna Rycenga and Deputy Fire Marshal Rob Lenois want your winter coats, and more. 

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Want to learn more about the influence of social media on today’s youth?

Westport Together — a program of our town’s Department of Human Services — has arranged a conversation on the topic, with local psychotherapists Vince Benevento, LPC Founder and CEO of Causeway Collaborative, and Mary Dobson.

It’s this Tuesday (October 22, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library). For more information, click here.

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As the weather gets colder, Earthplace heats up.

Among the activities:

  • Plein-Air Art Along the Trails (October 19, 10 a.m. to noon)
  • Tree ID Walk (October 19, 1 to 2:30 p.m.)
  • Yoga with Alison Heisler (October 25 and November 1, 9:15 to 10:15 a.m.)
  • Forest Bathing with Merritt Juliano (October 30, 10 to 11 a.m.)
  • Fall Gardening Workshops (November 2, 1 to 3 p.m.)’Car
  • Guided Meditation with Alison Heisler (November 4, 6:30 to 7:15 p.m.)
  • Sound Bath with Abbey Chase Yoga (November 13, 6:30 to 8 p.m.)
  • Craft and Sip: Fall Wreath Making (November 2, 1 to 3 p.m. or 6 to 8 p.m.)
  • Environmental Learning Series (November 2, 7 to 8 p.m.)
  • Native Plant Propagation (November 16, 1 to 3 p.m.)
  • Saving an Endangered Butterfly (November 21, 7 to 8 p.m.).

Click here for more information, and registration.

Create your own art along the Earthplace trails.

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La Plage’s patio is closing for the season soon.

To celebrate — and to get an early start on Halloween — they’re throwing a “Costume & Closing Party” (Sunday, October 27, 5 to 7 p.m.).

The $39.19 ticket includes light bites, music, and 2 drink tickets.

“Dress to impress,” the Longshore restaurant urges. The “Best Costume” winner will receive 2 tickets to La Plage’s New Year’s Eve gala dinner — a $370 value. Click here to purchase.

Closing soon — but just for the season. (Photo/Nicole Donovan)

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Speaking (once again) of restaurants: Back in May, “06880” announced the upcoming opening of Riko’s. The pizza place — which has drawn raves at their Fairfield, Norwalk, Darien and Stamford locations — replaces Mystic Market, off I-95 Exit 17 across from the train station parking lot.

(Mystic Market replaced, in turn, Blu Parrot, Jasmine, and the granddaddy of all Italian restaurants, the Arrow.)

It’s taken nearly 5 months, but the signage has finally appeared:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

Now we wonder: Which will finish first: Renovations to Riko’s, or construction on nearby 95?

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A date has been set to celebrate the life of Tom Carey. The former Conservation Commission chair and Westport Rotary Club treasurer died Monday.

Tom’s many friends are invited to Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church on Saturday, October 26 (2 p.m.). A reception will follow.

Tom Carey

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Get a jump on holiday shopping — and support The Westport Library — next Thursday (October 24, 1 to 5:30 p.m.), at J.McLaughlin.

15% of all purchases made at the 382 Post Road East store will benefit the Library.

Library officials will be on hand to say thanks, and answer questions about the Library’s programs and events.

Busy that afternoon? Call 475-284-2495 that day, and order. Those purchases help the Library too!

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The weather the past couple of weeks has been spectacular. (Knock wood.)

The days are warm. The nights are crisp. The skies are blue.

Anyone who can has been outdoors, taking advantage of our wonderful New England autumn.

Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — is always outside, no matter the weather. She too appreciates every minute of this perfect fall.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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This determined-looking guy was stalking Hales Road yesterday, like he owned the place:

(Photo/Drew Grega)

He did slow down long enough to pose for this “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Be careful out there!

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And finally … George C. Scott was born on this date, in 1927.

This final item in the “06880” Roundup is almost always dedicated to a musical selection.

Today is different. We honor the actor, who died in 1999 at 71, with a clip that may be the single greatest monologue in the history of movies.

(Want to know the latest restaurant news — or anything else, anywhere, in Westport? Just read “06880.” And if you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Box Tree Moth, Martha & Miggs, Andrew Marchand …

Posted on February 1, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Box Tree Moth, Martha & Miggs, Andrew Marchand …

Cindy Shumate — Westport’s garden designer extraordinaire — passes along this environmental warning from Paul Sztremer, the contractor in charge of planting and maintenance at beautiful Prospect Gardens in Greens Farms:

“There is a new, very destructive insect out there.

“It’s called box tree moth (or simply boxwood moth). Once settled within boxwood plants it can devour them within a short period of time, causing unsightly defoliation or even their  demise.

“We will be on the vigilant lookout for them this season. I recommend you keep a look out as well. They can cause costly damage if missed or ignored.

The silver lining is that, just like the fairly new spotted lanterfly, they can be eradicated easily with almost any insecticide, if spotted in time (before they cause major damage).”

Cindy says they travel 3 to 6 miles a year.

“Boxwood is a favorite foundational plant in many Westport gardens. It would be devastating if this invasive pest would settle in here,” she says.

The silver lining is that, just like the fairly new Spotted Lanterfly insect, they can be eradicated easily with almost any insecticide,  if spotted in time (before they cause major damage).

Click here for more information.

Box tree moth

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The new CNN mini-series about Martha Stewart has prompted many Westporters to mine their Martha memories.

Among them: This 1991 interview on Miggs Burroughs’ cable access TV show. It’s a classic:

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Andrew Marchand — the 1991 Staples High School graduate who, Poynter.org says, “probably breaks more sports media news than anyone in the business” — is leaving his longtime post at the New York Post.

His new home: The Athletic.

The New York Times — The Athletic’s owner — calls Marchand “a leading reporter at the intersection of sports media, television rights, talent and business for years.”

The former Mets and Yankees beat writer’s scoops include Joe Buck and Troy Aikman leaving Fox Sports for ESPN; the Apple deals involving MLB and MLS;  Al Michaels’ shift from NBC to Amazon; Tom Brady’s stunning deal with Fox, and and the NFL making more than $100 billion on their new TV deals,

At Staples, Marchand played varsity soccer. (Hat tip: Bill Kutik)

Andrew Marchand

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between January 24 and 31.

A woman was arrested for larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, forgery and conspiracy to commit forgery after a $560 check was stolen. She allegedly deposited it fraudulently in a bank account, for $5,500.

A man was arrested on a failure to appear warrant.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 15 citations
  • Failure to comply with state traffic control signals: 8
  • Failure to comply with state traffic control regulations: 6
  • Speeding: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 2
  • Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 2
  • School zone violation: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension/alcohol: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without tint inspection: 1

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Fetch Rescue announces 2 events this weekend.

This Saturday (noon to 2 p.m., Feather & Fringe, 252 Post Road East) there’s a “fetch rescue” puppy adoption.

Sunday (12:30 to 2 p.m., Choice Pet, Compo Acres Shopping Center) brings another puppy adoption event, plus a free “Puppy 101” training session.

Questions? Email jessie@fetch-rescue.com.

This dog may not be up for adoption this weekend. But many others will be.

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The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce held a joint meeting with the Norwalk Chamber of Commerce last night, at Jacob’s Pickles in the SoNo Collection.

It was a great chance to meet and greet — and enjoy a very cool new Southern comfort cuisine-themed restaurant.

(Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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La Plage is well known for its romantic waterside views.

That’s especially true on Valentine’s Day.

To celebrate, the Longshore restaurant offers a 3-course prix fixe menu.

Click here for the $95 per person menu. Reservations are required: 203-684-6232.

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Terry Tannen’s exhibit “Awakenings” — on view at The Westport Library through March 12 — is a collection of sunrise photographs taken over Sherwood Mill Pond.

“This series is a tribute to the last year of my beloved husband Charles Tannen’s life,” Terry says.

“Chuck was an avid lover of nature, photography and adventure. As his fight with Parkinson’s progressed, our goal became finding the beauty in what was in our present moment, in gratitude. Thus, ‘Awakenings.’”

An artist’s reception is set for February 12 (6 p.m.).

Untitled (Terry Tannen)

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One of the 2 people killed in 3-vehicle accident early Friday morning on I-95 in Fairfield was 75-year-old William Foster.

Better known as Billy, he was the front man and lead singer with Billy and the Showmen.

The band was popular throughout the tri-state region, and appeared often at the Levitt Pavilion. Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: MaryLou Roels)

Billy Foster

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Laurie Sorensen describes today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo:

“On Wednesday I was so lucky to enjoy lunch at Rive Bistro. The food was delicious as always, but the ducks just outside the window were the best entertainment. Amazing to watch them diving for their lunch!”

(Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

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And finally … on this date in 1896, “La Bohème” premiered in Turin. The conductor was 30-year-old Arturo Toscanini.

(“06880” is where Westport meets the world: from the Lower East Side to France, and everywhere else. Please help us continue our hyper-local — yet global — work. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: I-95, Middle East, Savvy Smoker …

Posted on October 21, 2023 | 1 comment

As scheduled, parts of I-95 were closed last night — along with the northbound Exit 17  entrance and exit ramps, and the southbound exit ramp — as part of the “slide,” to replace the old bridge with the new one.

As expected, traffic — including plenty of trucks — jammed the Post Road.

(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)

The closure is in effect until 6 a.m. Monday (October 23).

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Tomorrow’s forecast is better than today’s.

Sunday’s “Bring Them Home” candlelight vigil on Jesup Green (6 to 6:45 p.m.) — “an opportunity to come together, united as a community, to pray for the safe return of the hostages and show our support for Israel” — is on.

It might be windy. Organizers suggest electric candles, in addition to or in place of ones that might blow out.

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Speaking of Israel: 4 Westporters — Jennifer and Eric Blankfein, and Wendy and Spencer Brown — were on a flight there when Hamas attacked.

They landed at 10:30 on Saturday morning,, October 7.

Jennifer documented their 4 days in Israel on her blog, “Book Nation by Jen.” It’s long, but well worth the time. Click here for “A Trip to the Holy Land; Timing is Everything.” (Hat tip: Betsy Pollak)

Jennifer Blankfein

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Speaking of the Israeli flag: It has appeared many places in Westport.

One spot it has probably never been seen before: Compo Beach.

June Rose Whittaker spotted it there Thursday, draped across one of the benches used often for rest and reflection.

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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Speaking still of the crisis in the Middle East: The Westport Writers’ Workshops is raising funds the best way they know how.

Next Thursday (October 26, 7:30 to 9 p.m., Zoom), Julie Sarkissian will lead a writing circle. All proceeds from the $35 registration fee will provide aid to children affected by the fighting.

Attendees will write together to prompts, and share work aloud. Click here to register.

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Neil Gaiman — noted author of “American Gods,” “Coraline” and “The Sandman” series — kicked off this weekend’s StoryFest at the Westport Library.

His keynote conversation doubled as the Fall 2023 Malloy Lecture in the Arts.

A full slate of events — panel discussions, workshops, children’s activities, a story pitch session and the world premiere of the psychological thriller “Gentle Hacksaw” — take place today and tomorrow.

Click here for a schedule, and more details.

Neil Gaiman, at the Westport Library. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

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Christian Siriano’s The Collective West will soon have a new neighbor.

It may not be what the fashion designer hoped for, in the former Subway on the Post Road East/West Parish Road corner.

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In addition to the previously announced 8-24 hearing on Parker Harding Plaza, next Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (October 23, 7 p.m., Zoom) includes a proposed text amendment to modify affordable housing standards.

The request — to increased the number of bedrooms from 20 to 24 per gross acre, and authorize approval of off-site affordable housing — would turn 259 Riverside Avenue, currently an office building, into residences.

Click here for the full agenda of Monday’s P&Z meeting.

259 Riverside Avenue.

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La Plage says “adieu” to their patio for the season, in a spooky way.

On Sunday, October 29 (5 p.m. until late), the Longshore restaurant hosts a Halloween Soiree.

On the menu: complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails (“boo-ze”) from Litchfield Distillery, music, and a costume contest.

RSVP by phone (203-684-6232) or email (Info@laplagewestport.com).

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Sustainable Westport’s second Residential Energy Learning series focuses on solar energy. “Everything Solar” is set for the Westport Library on November 7 (6:30 p.m., reception, 6:45 presentation and Q-and-A).

Westport architect John Rountree and Nathan Hernandez, solar consultant, will discuss how to transition your home or business to solar energy. They’ll cover  solar panels, installation companies, design considerations, the expected ROI, and financing options (with federal and state incentives).

Westporter Dan Schlesinger will talk about his recent process of going solar.

The final Residential Learning Series, “Going Geothermal,” is December 12.

Thinking of going solar? See you November 7!

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The Westport Woman’s Club’s annual clothing sale continues this weekend, at their clubhouse at 44 Imperial Avenue.

Check out a wide variety of gently used suits, dresses, pants, blouses, gowns, coats, scarves, shoes, jewelry, handbags and hats.

Hours are today (Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

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

Items for sale at the Westport Woman’s Club.

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We’d love you to check out 4 great houses on our “Historic Homes of 06880” tour on November 5 (2 to 5 p.m.; click here for details).

But there’s another tour that very same day, and in the interest of fairness I’m posting that info too.

Histoury — a non-profit dedicated to preserving and appreciating historic buildings in Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts — is offering a bus tour of Frazier Peters homes in Westport.

It begins at 1 p.m. November 5, and lasts 4 hours. The bus will include 20 stone homes designed by the famed architect, with stops for a few interior looks.

Click here for tickets ($75 for adults, $49 for students).

A typical Frazier Forman Peters home.

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Due to artist availability. the Westport Country Playhouse November 13 Script in Hand play reading has been changed.

“Cleo” has been replaced by “Theatre People,” by Paul Slade Smith.

Based on Ferenc Molnár’s Hungarian farce “Play at the Castle,” this adaptation is a comedy about people in love with theater. But pursuit of a surefire Broadway hit, they might have to give reality a rewrite.

Click here for more information, and tickets to the 7 p.m. play reading.

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Longtime Westporter Edward (Doug) Hyde, Jr. died Wednesday, surrounded by loved ones. He was 85.

The Ridgefield native was a graduate of Fairfield Prep and the University of Detroit. He served proudly as a sergeant in the US Army Reserve.

Doug was a credit analyst in New York, and the owner of Hyde’s Wines & Liquors in Ridgefield. He later bought Beacon Liquor Store in Westport. He also took on the role of manager at Depot Liquors in Saugatuck

He and his wife Joan Masnato, former Westport town clerk, were married for 53 years.

Doug and Joan loved to travel. He found solace and joy in fishing and boating. As an amateur radio operator, he connected with the world through his airwaves.  He also enjoyed reading historical and Stephen King novels, cooking and entertaining.

He is survived by his wife; brothers Brian of Winchester, Virginia and Gary (companion Christine Lamadrid) of Avon; sister Marilyn Gregory of Shelton; nieces Sara Hyde, Marybeth McAllister (John) and Rena Hemmann (Tom); nephews Paul Hyde (Annie), Jason Hyde (Jamie), Kenneth Hyde (Jen S.), William Gregory (Susanna) and Thomas Gregory, and goddaughter Sally Anastos (Tarsey).

A funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday (October 24, St. Pius X Parish, Fairfield). Click here to leave online condolences. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Westport Volunteer EMS, 50 Jesup Rd, Westport CT 06880 or St. Pius X Church, 834 Brookside Drive, Fairfield, CT 06824.

Doug Hyde

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Egrets at the Sherwood Mill Pond always make us smile.

Today — in the golden sun of autumn — they make our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … happy 83rd birthday to Manfred Mann.

You know his band. But the South African/English keyboardist was not its lead singer. That was Paul Jones.

But he did sing with another, later group, also named for him: Manfred Mann’s Earth Band.

(Just another regular “Roundup” — in other words, everything you need to know in Westport today. If you like what you learn, please consider a contribution to “06880.” Click here — and thank you!)

 

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Roundup: School Security, Spotted Lanternflies, Slice of Saugatuck …

Posted on August 30, 2023 | 9 comments

Today’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast is timely and important.

Police Chief Foti Koskinas joins 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker to discuss why, how and where additional school security personnel will be added soon.

Click below to hear their conversation. The podcast is sponsored by the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Spotted lanternflies are a highly invasive species.

And they thrive on another invasive pest: trees of heaven.

Infestations have been reported around Westport, including Winslow and Grace Salmon Parks.

The Connecticut Agricultural Experimental Station says:

The spotted lanternfly Lycorma delicatula, (SLF) was first found in North America in Pennsylvania in late 2014. It is an exotic, invasive sap-feeding planthopper that has the potential to severely impact Connecticut’s agricultural crops, particularly apples, grapes, and hops, and ornamental trees. Spotted lanternfly adults feed on more than 70 species of plants. Its preferred host tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is highly invasive and is abundant along highways, in urban areas, and along the edges of agricultural and industrial areas, where the spotted lanternfly could easily become established.

Approximately half of Connecticut’s trees are threatened by spotted lanternfly invasion according to data from Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). As spotted lanternfly nymphs and adults feed on the sap from trees and vines, the entire plant can become weakened because it cannot conduct photosynthesis as effectively. The excretions from these leaf-hopping insects encourage the growth of black sooty mold, thereby reducing photosynthesis. Agricultural crops will have reduced yields due to SLF feeding on fruit and generally weakening plants, if not completely destroying them.

To learn more about the pest, click here. Sightings (including, if possible, photos) should be reported to state environmental authorities, using this form. (Hat tip: Tracy Porosoff)

(Photo/Stacie Weiser Waldman)

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Speaking of nature: Paul Rohan writes, “The other morning on my morning walk on Hillspoint Road ner Valley Road, I spotted 2 young deer eating grass at the edge of the road.

“I then saw a coyote run up Lookout Lane and enter Hillspoint to approach the deer. As he was halfway across the road he spotted me. He did an about face, ran back down the lane, and quickly disappeared in the underbrush.

“Over the years I have seen a few coyotes in the area, but only before daybreak.  This was around 8 a.m. Please alert readers with small dogs or other pets who might be in the area in the early morning to be aware of this coyote situation.”

Not the Hillspoint Road coyote.

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If it’s late summer/early fall, it must be time for the Slice of Saugatuck.

The 11th annual event — a fun food/merchant experience in Westport’s most walkable neighborhood — is set for Saturday, September 9 (2 to 5 p.m.).

This year, over 40 businesses will participate in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event.

Over 2 dozen venues will offer tastes from their menus. Live music will play at 7 locations, with favorite bands like Otis & the Hurricanes, Silver Steel, Mill River Band, the Howling Barncats, Elana Zarabi and Accidental Breakdown.

Bouncy houses are back. New this year: a face painter for the kids.

Beer Gardens (with wine) on Bridge Square and Railroad Place will be complemented by restaurants offering specialty drinks. Many venues will continued the festivities with happy hour offerings after the Slice ends.

The price is again $15 for adults, $5 for children under 13, free for age 5 and under. Tickets are sold on-site only, beginning at 1:50 p.m.

Slice of Saugatuck is one of the best events on the local calendar. It’s also a great cause. Over the years, the Chamber has donated more than $44,000 to the Gillespie Center’s food pantry .

For more information — including a map of participants —  click here.

Lining up for samples, on Railroad Place

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Mike Ronemus and a few friends have been thinking about it for, oh, only 25 years or so.

On Monday, they finally did it: They swam from Compo Beach to Cokenoe Island.

And back.

They began at 6 a.m. A kayak, stand-up paddleboard and 2 boats escorted them through the channel.

It took between 1 1/2 and 1 3/4 hours to cover the 2 1/2 miles.

Congratulations to Mike, and fellow adventure swimmers Tom Bottini, Chris Coffin, Kevin Huelster, Bruce Koffsky, Andy Ludel, Mary Money, Ric Nadel, Leila Shields, Clay Tebbits.

And welcome back to land!

Halfway there! There swimmers at Cockenoe Island.

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A pair of local realtors recently sent out a newsletter, touting — among other things — a popular Westport restaurant.

Next time, they (or their proofreader) might want to do a more thorough job. (Hat tip: Francoise Jaffe)

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Of course there’s lobster at the Friends of Sherwood Island State Park’s annual Shorefest celebration.

But there’s also salmon and steak (with catering by Westfair Fish & Chips). Plus music by Westport Jenny Ong’s classical trio. And as always, a chance to party with fellow park-lovers.

This year’s event is September 8 (6 to 9 p.m., main pavilion). A silent auction includes tours of Prospect Gardens and Aspetuck brew lab, a fishing charter with Westport captain Blake Smith, and gift certificates to local restaurants.

Proceeds help fund 140 feet of new dunes, with 3,600 American beach grass plants; invasive species eradication; an owl habitat restoration project; fall and spring tree plantings; the Nature Center intern program, and speakers on raptors, horseshoe crabs, turtles and insects.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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The Tennis Channel is listed on the NASDAQ. For the past 12 years, they’ve celebrated the start the US Open by ringing the morning bell.

Yesterday morning, the ringers included Cayne Mandell. The 2017 Staples High School and 2021 Syracuse University sports management graduate is an ad sales marketing coordinator for TC.

The NASDAQ bell was not his only perk. He’ll be in the Tennis Channel corporate suite during the event too.

Cayne Mandell, larger than life.

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Allan Friedman has led bike trips for a decade — ever since his first Backroads journey to Tuscany in 2013. He then biked through California and Canada, and now leads urban tours in areas like New York, New Haven and Washington.

On September 12 (Saugatuck Congregational Church; 6:15 p.m. dinner; 7:30 p.m. presentation), he’s the Appalachian Mountain Club’s dinner guest speaker. His topic: ”Adventures Abound — Ride and Explore!”

The cost is $10 for members, $15 for non-members (payable at the door). Bring a dessert to share. For more information, email easasso7@icloud.com.

 

Allan Friedman

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Eagle-eyed photographer Steve Halstead snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — at the same moment his subject looked, equally intently, for a fish.

(Photo/Steve Halstead)

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And finally … Bob Mummert, the drummer on Roy Orbison’s last tour, died Saturday.

Known for his appearance on the “You Got It” music video, he was also a drummer for the Grand Ole Opry, and a session musician who toured with many famous artists and bands.

(From school security to spotted lanternflies, “06880” is your connection between Westport and the world. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Photo Challenge #431

Posted on April 2, 2023 | 31 comments

The statue of a man looking down at the ground could have been anywhere in Westport.

A church, cemetery, nursery, Levitt Pavilion, Linxweiler House, Haskins Preserve, MoCA, Saugatuck, Town Hall, Community Gardens, Library, Earthplace, Parker-Harding Plaza … all were guesses, in last week’s Photo Challenge.

All were wrong.

It took nearly 3 days — and a hint from me (“town-owned property”) — for Andrew Colabella (of course!) to nail the location.

It’s hidden at Longshore, behind La Plage restaurant and the Inn.

Sure, Pat Saviano’s shot was obscure. (Click here to see.) But I’m surprised — with all the time people spend at the patio bar (and at weddings on the grass) that no one else knew the answer.

So it’s on to the this week’s challenge. If you think you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)

(Here’s another challenge: Please support “06880.” Click here to donate. And thank you!)

31 Comments

Posted in Longshore, Photo Challenge

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Pic Of The Day #1910

Posted on July 10, 2022 | 2 comments

Last night’s sunset was even more spectacular than most. At Compo Beach, the color of the sky matched a little girl’s outfit … (Photo/Jeanine Esposito)

… while around the corner at La Plage restaurant, blue and pink provided a gorgeous backdrop. (Photo/Nicole Donovan)

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Posted in Beach, Longshore, Pic of the Day

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