VersoFest turns the Library into a rockin’, rollin’ concert hall. Across the parking lot the Levitt Pavilion offers dozens of concerts, of all kinds, from spring to fall.
For a decade or so, the Levitt was the site of an annual Labor Day Blues, Views & BBQ Festival.
Before that though, Westport hosted another Blues Festival.
It ran for only 2 years: 1993 and ’94. But it some great local talent.
The Slo Leak band, for example, starred Charlie Karp (the guitar phenom who left Staples High School at 16 to play with Buddy Miles and a couple of years later, Jimi Hendrix); Harvey Brooks (the Westport bassist who played on Bob Dylan’s “Highway 61 Revisited” and the Doors’ “Touch Me,” and with Miles Davis and many others), and Danny Kortchmar (another Westport resident and session musician with Don Henley, Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor, David Crosby, Carole King, David Cassidy, Graham Nash, Neil Young, Steve Perry, Carly Simon and more).
The event was produced by Mark Naftalin, the Westporter inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for his keyboard work with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band.
Eric von Schmidt — a musician muse for Bob Dylan, and a noted artist too — created the t-shirts and poster.
Naftalin’s wife Ellen helped him. She remembers the logo included Westport’s iconic Minute Man — but “with a guitar instead of a gun in his arms.”
She adds, “When Eric first drew it he had a tightly rolled joint in the Minute Man’s mouth. But I was worried that the powers that be in Westport would object, so I asked him to make it look more like a cigarette.
“Eric snipped off the rolled end. Now it looks more like a joint than it did in the first place.”
(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
Lisa Wexler has been endorsed unanimously by the Democratic Party to serve as the probate judge for Westport and Weston for another 4-year term. She was elected previously as both a Democrat and Republican.
After being chosen in a special 2013 election, Wexler has been re-elected 3 times since. A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and the New York University School of Law, she has lived in Westport with her husband Bill and family since 1989.
The final day of the 53rd annual Fine Arts Festival began wet yesterday.
Fortunately, the rain eased around noon, before starting again. It was not a total washout for the 160 artists, from around the country.
Before the crowds arrived, photographer Tom Kretsch — one of 6 Westporters in the show — helped make the area presentable.
The things artists do, that most of us never see …
=================================================
The weather was blustery yesterday.
But after church, longtime Westporters Janine and Pietro Scotti (former owner of Da Pietro’s) and their daughter Lucia headed to Compo Beach. She reports:
“The poor lifeguards were in the pavilion, and hanging out.
“I thought I’d eat lunch from the new Sandbar concession stand there, but would up on one of the side counters.
“We had the chicken souvlaki, and a side of fries. Really good tzatziki, and the fries were delicious. Great quality.
“I felt for them, because they really hustled to get open for this weekend. I’m glad Nikki Glekas has other businesses. I’ve heard a lot of good things about her. A friend from Stamford said her restaurant is phenomenal.
“We’re really lucky they’ve come in.”
From left: Lucia, Janine and Pietro Scotti, and The Sandbar staff.
Looking ahead: The West Point Concert Band takes the stage June 9. They’ll honor America’s 250th anniversary with everything from Broadway classics and bluegrass to marches. Clck here for free tickets, or go to the box office.
Club203 gets into the World Cup spirit, at their final gathering of the year (June 9, 6:30 p.m., Ned Dimes Marina).
Westport’s social organization for adults with disabilities promises soccer-inspired art led by MoCA\CT, along with food from the Super Duper Weenie Truck, and more. Wear a team jersey, and enjoy the fun. For more information, click here.
==============================================
It’s been a gray holiday weekend in Westport.
But today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, from Terra Nova Circle near the Norwalk line, offers a burst of much-needed color.
(Photo/John Maloney)
The rest of the week will be partly cloudy. Temperatures will be in the 70s — and, on Wednesday, the 80s.
And finally … on this date in 1961, President Kennedy told a joint session of Congress that the US “should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the Moon and returning him safely to the Earth.”
We’re a week away from the 53rd annual Fine Arts Festival.
Across North America, over 150 artists are preparing to come to Westport, and show their work.
Selected from over 320 applications, and representing 12 categories, they come from 23 states and Canada. 27 are from Connecticut — 6 from right here in 06880.
All 2025 award winners return. Click here for a full list. Meanwhile, a record 52 artists make their Fine Arts Festival debut.
New this year: a very cool art activation. Staples High School art students will paint a BMW in the family area (Sigrid Schultz parking lot).
Two new judges join the panel: art enthusiasts Lonnie Quinn (CBS weatherman) and Louise Crowley.
Longshore Capital Improvement Plan update – Maintenance facility building update.
One possibility for the enclosed dog run at Winslow Park.
=================================================
The Levitt Pavilion announced a torrent of new shows this week — both free and ticketed.
The Revivalists rock on August 11. One of the most uplifting live acts in music today, their current tour includes the Grand Ole Opry, part of the FIFA World Cup, Red Rocks Amphitheatre — and a return to the banks of the Saugatuck. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Also booked:
May 29: An album release concert by Amani Burnham (first free show of the ’26 season). The 20-year-old Ethiopian-born, Connecticut-based artist has amassed more than 240,000 followers and nearly 30 million views on social media. Amani and his band will make their Levitt Pavilion debut while celebrating their debut album and set sail as the first free show of the 2026 season! Pretty auspicious!
June 7: Jumaane Smith Jazz Quartet. Lauded by Michael Bublé (with whom he tours). Wynton Marsalis (coming to the Levitt on June 28) was his trumpet teacher at Juilliard.
Hard to believe: This is the 25th anniversary of “Shrek.”
Not hard to believe: The Westport Library is celebrating the milestone.
On Tuesday (May 19, 7 p.m.; $10), co-writer Roger S.H. Schulman takes the audience behind the scenes. He’ll discuss his journey from journalism to Hollywood and the classroom. Click here to register, and for more information.
To learn more about the mechanics of screenwriting, Schulman offers a Verso University workshop on “Writing Compelling Characters.” Click here for details.
The bakery — founded by Westporters Bill and Andrea Pecoriello, which trains and employs people with disabilities (who make great stuff) — is raising money for the Hype 4 Life Foundation, an autism awareness non-profit.
They’ll send 2 winners (and plus-ones) to the Brian Burns Celebrity Softball Game May 30 in Pomona, New York. The football star and current Giants play Brandon Jacobs and Super Bowl XLII and XLVI champions, and other legends. Over 100 current and former NFL players will be on the field, competing in softball, a home run derby and (why not?) dodgeball.
Just in time for Memorial Day: the construction trailer — part of the Soundview parking lot staging area, for the Compo Cove tidal gate renovation project — has been hauled away.
Those parking spaces will be needed soon.
Maybe very soon. Sunday’s high temperature is forecast to be 86.
And finally … Soul singer/guitaristClarence Carter died Wednesday in Atlanta. He was 90, and had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The New York Times said, “Blind from youth and distinguished by his deep, declamatory baritone and lecherous, full-throated laugh, Mr. Carter combined the sermonic fervor of a backwoods preacher and the bawdy humor of a juke joint.” Click here for a full obituary.
(Sure, it’s the weekend. But “06880” keeps pumping out these Roundups like there’s no tomorrow. If you enjoy our 24/7/365 work, please show your support by clicking here. Thank you!)
Once again, the Memorial Day parade is honored to honor a World War II veteran.
Herb Podel is this year’s grand marshal, for the May 25 event.
The 101-year-old longtime Westporter served in the Pacific Theater. He was attached to a Seabee unit as an aviation and electronics specialist. Their primary focus was preparation for the planned invasion of Japan.
A resident here since 1965, Herb spent decades contributing to the community through volunteerism, leadership and civic engagement. The father of 2 daughters, Alison Bricken and Jacqueline Podel, he owned a company that manufactured recreation equipment for many years.
Herb has received 2 awards from the town of Westport recognizing his volunteer efforts. He served for many years as president of the Saugatuck Senior Cooperative board. He founded and facilitated the longtime Cultural Salon discussion group in Westport, and held numerous roles at Temple Israel.
Herb now lives at The Residence at Westport. He continues to be an active member of the Westport Center for Senior Activities, where he regularly participates in classes, discussion groups, special events and community lunches.
In February of 2025, Herb Podel celebrated his 100th birthday at the Senior Center with director Wendy Petty (right) and then-2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore.
================================================
Speaking of the Memorial Day parade: Westport groups, civic organizations and businesses interested in participating in the community event should register here. The deadline is May 17.
(Photo/Kelly Freitag)
All ages, and all kind of groups, “march” in the Memorial Day parade.
Hard to believe, but the Westport Pops Concert is now 10 years old.
From its first performance in 2016, the Staples High School-meets-Levitt Pavilion event became a beloved (and quickly sold-out) tradition.
This year’s show is Friday, June 5. Featured musicians include the nationally recognized Staples Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble One, Choralaires, Sonora, Orphenians, Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra, and small group ensembles.
James Naughton returns as emcee.
The Levitt lawn opens at 6 p.m. (BYO chair); the concert begins at 7. Tickets are free, but a donation of $15 per ticket is suggested to help offset production costs.
Tickets are available at wpsarts.org/staplesmusic on Friday, May 22 at 9 a.m.; first-come, first-served.
Westport Pops poster graphic inspired by senior Connor Yuan.
================================================
Another great Westport tradition is also near. And it too celebrates a milestone.
The 20th annual Taste of Westport returns Wednesday, June 3 (6 p.m., Fairfield County Hunt Club). As they’ve done for 20 years, the area’s top restaurants and mixologists will host an evening of great food, drinks and community — all for a wonderful cause.
The fundraiser benefits CLASP Homes. All proceeds help provide group homes and 24/7/365 services for adults with autism and developmental disabilities.
Restaurants serving up their favorite dishes include Gabriele’s, The Bridge, Nômade, Massi Co, The Whelk, Artisan and Dandelion — and many others.
Guests will also enjoy signature cocktails, a Champagne and caviar bar, and a bourbon tasting experience. A silent auction adds to the fun.
One more event of note: A few foursomes remain for the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s 10th annual Golf for Good tournament (May 18, Aspetuck Valley Country Club).
he Westport Weston Family YMCA is proud to announce its 10th Annual Golf for Good Charity Golf Tournament, taking place on Monday, May 18, 2026 at Aspetuck Valley Country Club.
Proceeds support the Y’s Financial Assistance Program, enabling individuals and families to participate in programs regardless of financial circumstances. Funds also support youth sports and camp, Parkinson’s wellness and independence programs, cancer survivorship support, and access for veterans.
We’re not sure how many Westporters follow the Library of Congress on Twitter (aka “X”).
But it’s a good thing for “06880” that Josh Berkowsky does.
A recent tweet celebrating National Cartoonist Day (May 5 — we all missed it) gave several examples of cartoons drawn on letters by soldiers in World War II.
Two very colorful ones were sent from a Sgt. Duquette in San Francisco, to Mrs. Gerald Duquette, on Sturges Highway here.
They are not the work of Sgt. Duquette. Josh says that the Library of Congress website credits the art to his friend, Technical Sgt. Samuel Lionel Boylston of South Carolina.
The recipient is Duquette’s wife, “Mrs. Gerald Duquette.”
One more local connection: Tom Duquette is a frequent “06880” commenter. He always adds “SHS ’75” (Staples Class of 1975).
Tom: If you’re reading this, please click “Comments” to let us know the connection!
And finally … in honor of 2 World War II stories today (Herb Podel and Sgt. Duquette, above):
(We don’t want to toot our horn, but since our first “06880” in 2009, we’ve posted over 20,000 stories — and haven’t missed a day. If you enjoy our 24/7/365 work, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Charlie Hall says, “We’re all drummers. It’s a way we organize time and sound, to signify an event or convey an emotion.”
That may be true.
But very few of us can drum as well as Hall.
The 1992 Greens Farms Academy graduate and Wilton native has spent his professional life as a drummer. (Plus, he’s a songwriter, producer and multi-instrument performer.)
Hall is a longtime percussionist with the Grammy Award-winning band The War on Drugs. He releases his own music too.
He’s produced 3 Christmas LPs with Patti LaBelle, Stevie Nicks (and the Philadelphia Eagles).
Charlie Hall
Hall is also a founder of Get Up With It. Since the late 1990s, the project has explored and performed the groundbreaking 1969-1975 era of Miles Davis’ electric music.
On May 24 (7 p.m.), Hall and Get Up With It kick off the Levitt Pavilion’s 53rd season — and celebrate the centennial of Davis’ birth — with a special concert.
The ensemble will focus on 3 of the trumpeter’s most influential albums: 1969’s visionary and transcendental “In a Silent Way” the 1970 magnum opus “Bitches Brew,” and 1971’s “Jack Johnson.”
Hall began drumming at age 3, when his grandmother bought him a tin Muppets set.
By 6, he had a set of Ludwigs.
His brother — older by 9 years — introduced Hall to ’70s rock legends like the Rolling Stones, the Who and Led Zeppelin. In high school he listened to WLIR, and was introduced to the Pretenders, Talking Heads and U2.
“Drums were the way I met people and built relationships,” Hall recalls.
A special relationship was with Jean Rabin, owner of Record & Tape of Westport. He was there at least weekly. She encouraged his love of music. His room was plastered with posters she saved for him. “I wish I could thank her for all she did,” he says.
(Courtesy of Christopher Maroc)
GFA dean of students/registrar/math teacher Ed Denes was another important influence.
“He was larger than life — literally and figuratively,” Hall says.
Denes organized school talent shows. Hall always had a band. “It was a way I could bring people together,” he notes. “I still do that today.”
After the College of William & Mary — where he majored in music and psychology (and met his wife) — he moved to San Francisco, then Philadelphia.
He’s been there ever since. He joined The War on Drugs — a Philly-based rock band — in 2014.
Hall’s upcoming Levitt gig has roots in his 1990s California days. Playing “straight-ahead jazz,” he and fellow musicians put together Get Up With It, a 10-piece group to explore the “Afro-futuristic space rock” canon of Davis’ music.
When Hall and some of the others moved to Philadelphia and New York, they formed an East Coast version.
“Miles painted with a palette of rhythms,” Hall explains. “It’s a gift for me to play this music, with these people.”
Get Up With It includes guitars, woodwinds, keyboards, brass — and a trio of percussionists.
Get Up With It, in action.
What will it be like for Hall to pay tribute to Miles Davis, just a couple of miles from where he himself grew up?
“It will be pretty emotional,” the drummer admits.
“I think so fondly on my first 18 years of life around there … all the bands I’ve seen, and the experiences I’ve had. To bring my gang here will be fun.”
Doors open at 6 p.m., for the Levitt Pavilion’s May 24 kickoff concert, Charlie Hall’s Get Up With It: A Miles Davis Centennial Celebration. Click here for tickets, and more information.
(“06880” reports regularly on Westport’s entertainment scene — including local and national artists. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Levitt Pavilion kicks off its 53rd season on May 24. (Photo/Susan Garment)
Starting tomorrow (Friday), beach stickers are required for all Westport beach parking lots.
Receipts will not be accepted. Emblems must be displayed on windshields.
If you order online, delivery takes up to 2 weeks. For quicker service, stop by the Parks & Recreation Department office in Longshore weekdays, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Everyone’s got documents to shred. And who doesn’t want to support cancer research?
Both come together on Saturday, May 9 (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.,, William Raveis Real Estate rear parking lot), 47 Riverside Avenue).
Raveis is sponsoring “Shred it for Cancer Research.” Your stuff will be shredded as you watch. You don’t even have to leave your car.
There’s a suggested donation of $5 per shopping bag, $10 per box or shopping bag, $20 for a large garbage bag (cash, check credit card or Venmo.
100% of every donation benefits the William Raveis Charitable Fund, Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
================================================
On May 3, Histoury brings its look at colonial-era homes to Westport and Weston.
The charter bus will highlight many sites. Four will be open for inside looks: the oldest home in Westport, an 18th-century house almost destroyed during the Revolutionary War and retains original Delft Blue tiles, the Rachel Beers dowager home, and the Osborn Dairy farmhouse.
Vernacular farmhouses, Georgian and Federal homes, and the Cape Cod style are some topics of colonial-era architecture that will be seen and discussed, along with stories about the people and history of those places.
Over the past few months, VFW Post 399 has become one of Westport’s premier music venues.
This Saturday (May 2, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show), the Connecticut Grateful Dead All Stars take the stage.
A great show will be made even greater, thanks to Crispin Cioe. The saxophonist (and longtime Westporter) — a member of the legendary Uptown Horns — has performed with The Rolling Stones. He’s also heard on “Love Shack” and “Living in America.”
A light bar menu (including hot dogs and pizza by the slice) is available. Tickets are $17.85 here, $20 at the door.
Where else can you see the Dead — or Crispin Cioe — for that price?
Speaking of music: Just added, to MoCA\CT’s “Art, Jazz + the Blues” exhibit: a screening of “Jazz on a Summer’s Day” (May 28, 6:30 p.m.).
The 1959 film — captured against the backdrop of the Newport Jazz Festival and America’s Cup — features legends like Louis Armstrong, Thelonious Monk, and Mahalia Jackson. All 3, and others, inspired the works currently hanging in the MoCA galleries
The screening will be followed by a Q-and-A with Yale professor of music and film & media studies Brian Kane. He’ll explore how 20th-century icons continue to shape American culture.
Village Pediatrics’ “Story Walk” — the often-changing displays along the Saugatuck River, outside their Riverside Avenue office — is always worth a look.
The current display sends a particularly important message:
As part of our tribute, we noted that the renowned dancer and longtime Westport resident helped choreograph 2 Staples Players shows (both of which she had starred in): “Alice in Wonderland” in 1964, and “Oklahoma!” 10 years later.
But, Players co-director David Roth notes, there’s another connection.
Her daughter Jennifer DeJesus played Louise — the role Bambi Linn originated on Broadway) in the high school troupe’s 1981 production of “Carousel.”
That Players production is famous for another reason: It featured Michael Hayden as Billy Bigelow.
The Staples star eventually played that role on Broadway, too.
Michael Hayden
==============================================
Another “06880” Roundup entertainment follow-up:
Yesterday, we reported that Westport neighbor Nile Rodgers was one of the New York Times’ “30 Greatest Living American Songwriters.”
That item followed directly after an item about Wynton Marsalis’ upcoming show at the Levitt Pavilion. (It’s June 28. Tickets go on sale to the public tomorrow.)
The Levitt’s Carleigh Walsh quickly reminded me that Rodgers — and Chic — played a memorable show at the outdoor venue too. The year was 2016.
The video (click here or below) shows the intro to his “Get Lucky” hit. It’s very personal, and emphasizes his artistic identity as a songwriter on countless hits he has created, produced, recorded and influenced.
The video also includes a stage-side view of Rodgers, playing his signature guitar.
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between April 22 and 28.
A 34-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with 2 counts of operation of a motor vehicle while under suspension, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, failure to meet minimum insurance requirements and failure to appear, after an officer on Post Road West noticed a vehicle with a suspended and expired registration, unconfirmed insurance coverage and a possible active arrest warrant. He was released on a $7,500 bond.
A 37-year-old Stamford woman was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs and failure to grant right of way, following a motor vehicle accident with injuries on Riverside Avenue. She was released on a $500 bond.
Westport Police continued their month-long crackdown on texting while driving. They issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 48 citations
Distracted driving: 12
Violation in a school zone: 9
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
Failure to renew registration: 5
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
Failure to obey stop sign: 4
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 3
Breach of peace: 1
Failure to move over for an emergency vehicle: 1
Speeding: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Tinted glass violation: 1
Violation of permit requirements: 1
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 1
If you see these in your rear view mirror — or coming the other direction — pull over!
=================================================
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image is a bleeding heart — the floral, not the political kind!
And finally … the Nile Rodgers item above got us thinking about his mega-monster hit. It definitely deserves another spin, here on his hometown “06880”:
Willie Nelson, Smokey Robinson and Frankie Valli are just a few of the greats to grace the riverfront stage.
Next up: Wynton Marsalis.
Before the world-renowned managing and artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center heads into his final season, he’ll be in Westport on Sunday, June 28.
The evening opens with a set by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Youth Orchestra at 6 p.m. A 2-set performance by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, with Marsalis, follows at 7.
Pre-sale to Levitt Pavilion members is underway now (click here; for membership information, click here). Tickets for the general public begin at 10 a.m. Friday (May 1; click here).
Wynton Marsalis
================================================
Speaking of entertainment: The New York Times has just posted their list of “The 30 Greatest Living American Songwriters.”
And #1 — making him the greatest of all the greatest — is Westport’s own Nile Rodgers.
Okay: The list is unranked. But still, our neighbor is the first one you see.
More than 250 music insiders and 6 Times critics “weighed in on who defines the new American songbook.”
Rodgers’ writeup says:
The titles tell the story. “Good Times.” “I Want Your Love.” “Lost in Music.” “Everybody Dance.” “My Feet Keep Dancing.” “Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah).”
The songs of Nile Rodgers distill the spirit of disco’s heyday: long nights, bright lights, romance, sex and, above all, the communal rapture of bodies moving in unison, following inexorable grooves to a distant plane where the laws of physics seem no longer to apply — at least until the cops show up.
Together with his songwriting partner, the bassist Bernard Edwards (who died in 1996), Rodgers co-founded Chic, the de facto house band of New York’s late-70s disco boom.
A legendary hard partyer, Rodgers was both a habitué of Manhattan’s club scene and its shrewdest chronicler. In the songs he and Edwards composed for Chic and other artists, the gritty glamour of the local demimonde — Black and white and Latino, gay and straight and in between — became a global ideal, immortalized in anthems of freedom and transgression that rippled across the planet.
Tomorrow, the Jazz Society of Fairfield County (aka JazzFC) hosts a free Professional Development Day for professional and pre-professional jazz performers and composers.
The April 30 event runs from noon to 5 p.m., at VFW Post 399.
The afternoon includes sessions on promotion and public relations, booking and self-management, and financial planning — all tailored specifically for jazz musicians.
Saxophonist and educator Vincent Herring will deliver the keynote, on developing and sustaining a life in jazz.
This free program is open to working jazz artists and pre-professionals, ages 18 and up. Registration is required; click here.
Alison Milwe Grace is Connecticut’s Best Female Caterer!
The award — based on voting by CTbites readers — was presented Monday night at New Haven’s Marcel Hotel.
Alison — a Staples High School graduate (and culinary teacher, cookbook author and Food Network competitor) — owns and operates AMG Catering & Events.
For 30 years they’ve served Fairfield and Westchester Counties with 5-course, intimate dinner parties, festive bridal and baby showers, memorable weddings, creative bar and bat mitzvahs, and original fundraisers.
Monday’s event — CTbites’ “It’s a Woman’s World: An Evening to Inspire, Connect and Celebrate CT’s Women in Culinary” — honored “many inspiring and trailblazing females in Connecticut’s culinary industry.” Best Female Caterer was one of 11 categories.
Congratulations, Alison! We’re sure it was a great night.
And we hope the catering was almost as good as yours. (Hat tip: Pat Micinilio)
Alison Milwe Grace, at the CTbites ceremony Monday night.
The hyper-local event (9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Jesup Green) features a bumper crop of over 1,000 perennial plants.
While many sales stock nursery-bought inventory, this one’s 100% homegrown.
Every club member either donates at least 20 nurtured perennials from their personal garden, or joins a “digging team.”
Those teams spend weeks visiting local gardens, to divide and pot plants carefully.
So every plant is “Westport-proven” — already acclimated to our soil and climate. They’re hardy, and ready to thrive in your yard.
So far, the Diggers have potted, weeded and labeled over 100 plants. They’re watered daily, ensuring peak condition for the sale.
Beyond the perennials, there are Connecticut native plants, farm-fresh tomatoes and herbs, hand-crafted Mother’s Day planters and arrangements, and a bake sale.
The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is tomorrow (Thursday, April 30, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).
It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.
Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.
RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.
PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!
VFW benefits luncheon.
=================================================
The Harlem Stories Project — a non-profit founded by 2004 Staples High graduate Sarah Bennett, which empowers middle schoolers to tell stories of their West Harlem neighborhood, after interviewing residents — performed their 3rd original show earlier this month. It was co-written by Bennett and fellow Players alum Ginny Levy.
Staples High School Class of 1983 graduate, and longtime Westport resident Kristin Thornton died peacefully April 22, after a long illness.
She attended Marymount College. Kristin studied abroad for a year at the University of Stirling in Scotland, an experience she cherished deeply.
She spent 35 years in operations at Morgan Stanley. She was devoted to her work and colleagues.
Kristin was deeply loved by her 3 nieces and nephews. “They eagerly awaited her frequent visits, her brilliantly simple words of wisdom, and the legendary sleepovers that featured far more cartoon marathons than actual sleep,” her obituary says.
She is survived by her mother, Kathleen Thornton; sister Stephanie Moore Girling (Steve); brother William Thornton (Jessica Branson); nieces and nephews, Elizabeth, Savannah and Spencer Girling; aunt and uncle, Gail and Alan Shea; aunt Deenie Thornton, and many cousins.
Kristin was predeceased by her father, Richard Thornton, and uncles Robert Doyle, John Thornton Jr. and William Thornton.
A funeral service is set for St. Luke’s Church on Friday, May 1 (11 a.m.), followed by a reception and burial at Willowbrook Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Healthcare Workers Fund at the Maefair Center for Health and Rehabilitation in Trumbull.
No, today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo is not from “The Wizard of Oz.”
It could be — but Candice Cardenas’ Old Road image is even more glorious.
(Photo/Candice Cardenas)
==============================================
And finally … as the music world mourns the death of Nedra Talley Ross — the last surviving member of the Ronettes, the beloved 1960s girl group, who died on Sunday, age 80, in Virginia — there is a local connection.
When the Beatles toured the US in 1966, both the Ronettes and the Remains were opening acts.
And the Remains — the legendary garage band, featuring Westporters Barry Tashian on guitar and vocals, and Bill Briggs on keyboards — served as the backup band for Nedra and her cousins, Veronica (Ronnie) and Estelle Bennett.
Barry Tashian (center) and the Remains, backing up the Ronettes on the Beatles’ 1966 tour. (Screenshot from “America’s Lost Band.”)
(“06880” is where the Ronettes meet the Remains — and Westport meets the world. If you enjoy those meetings — or anything on our hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Americans discard 20 million mattresses and box springs annually. 55,000 end up in incinerators and landfills each day.
Sustainable Westport can help.
On May 2 (8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Earthplace), they’re sponsoring a free mattress/ box spring recycling event.
Up to 90% of old mattresses can be recycled into new products, like carpet pads, exercise equipment cushioning, bike seats, insulation, air filters and steel materials.
Dry and unsoiled mattress and/or box springs are welcome. Please, none that are damaged, wet or contaminated (e.g., bed bugs).
If you can’t transport your mattress or box spring, Westport Scout Troop 36 will provide a pickup service for a small donation. Click here to register.
Scout Troop 36 helps with the mattress recycling drive.
=================================================
Who says today’s teenagers don’t care about the future of their country?
On Wednesday, the League of Women Voters of Westport partnered with US Vote Foundation to register seniors at Staples High School.
In just 2 1/2 hours, 118 students completed forms. Many others took forms with them, or captured a QR code to register, or make a plan to vote where they attend college.
Voter registration was just one part of Staples’ “Invest in Yourself” program.
The day-long event helped seniors build practical skills, as they prepare for life after high school.
A Financial Reality Fair and series of health and wellness workshops gave students hands-on experience with the kinds of decisions they will face as young adults.
In the Financial Reality Fair, held in partnership with Connecticut’s credit unions, students managed personal budgets based on their chosen career paths and projected net salaries.
At booths staffed by PTA and credit union volunteers, seniors made spending decisions about housing, transportation, utilities and other expenses, before reviewing their financial choices with financial professionals.
The health and wellness sessions included “Know Before You Go,” a sexual violence prevention program presented by the Rowan Center of Norwalk, and a documentary about the dangers of mixing alcohol and prescription drugs.
The sessions were followed by conversations with the Westport Police Department, Positive Directions, and Staples mental health professionals.
In addition Chartwells presented “Nutrition 101″L practical guidance for maintaining a healthy diet away from home.
Van Gogh meets Mr. Brainwash at Clarendon Fine Art in Westport.
This month, the Main Street gallery — the British-based company’s first in the US — unveils a new collection.
Mr. Brainwash — who fuses street art, vibrant color, mixed media and cultural references, in an intriguing intersection of street art and contemporary pop — now reimagines Van Gogh’s most recognizable motifs.
The artist will be at Clarendon April 23 (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.). The exhibition is on view through May 3.
Carolyn Doan — Westport’s osprey whisperer — noticed a lot of activity at the Fresh Market osprey nest yesterday. She writes:
“Both raptors were relaxing in the sun. A few moments later they were visited by a third osprey, vying for the attention of the female. It was quickly chased away by the male after 2 low flying swoops.
“The couple then engaged in mating attempts, and relaxed some more in the sun. Mother Nature never disappoints…”
We won’t comment on their mating attempts. But if this spring is like previous ones, we’ll be welcoming another osprey pair back next year.
Speaking of wildlife: Scott Smith has enjoyed several sightings of a large flock of turkeys this spring at the H. Smith Richardson Wildlife Preserve, on the Southport border.
He writes: “I’m happy to stop for them as they cross Sasco Creek Road heading over to the Christmas Tree Farm from the meadow, which is being restored by the Connecticut Audubon Society.
“The big birds roost high up in trees at night, which is why a group of them is called a rafter.”
Scott adds that next week, Audubon will permanently ban dogs from the meadow, as well as the biggest parcel of the property: the open space that goes all the way to the playing fields of Greens Farms Academy.
He adds, “I can see why dog walkers would be upset — but not me, or the turkeys, or all the other field-nesting birds like the indigo bunting that call this rare habitat home.”
Roadwork — repairs, maintenance and improvements — are going on all over town.
This is the scene on Whitney Street, where sidewalks are being torn up, and trees removed, as the first steps in repaving the road and replacing sidewalks.
But “Get Up With It! A Miles Davis Centennial Celebration” kicks off the 2026 season on May 24 (7 p.m.).
The event — honoring the jazz legend’s 100th birthday — features a longstanding project of The War on Drugs drummer (and Greens Farms Academy graduate) Charlie Hall.
Now in its third decade, the 10-person ensemble focuses on 3 of Davis’ most influential albums: 1969’s visionary “In a Silent Way,” the 1970 magnum opus “Bitches Brew,” and 1971’s “Jack Johnson.”
And finally … Wayne Perkins, a guitarist who “injected Southern rock into the reggae of Bob Marley and the Wailers’ breakthrough album, ‘Catch a Fire,’ auditioned for a spot in the Rolling Stones and turned down an offer to join Lynyrd Skynyrd,” died last month in Alabama. He was 74, and had suffered a stroke.
Tonight’s main event — a public meeting about next steps for the Cribari Bridge, with representatives of the state Department of Transportation — begins at 6 p.m., in the Town Hall auditorium.
Can’t be there? It will be livestreamed at www.westportct.gov, and aired on Optimum channel 79.
The Cribari Bridge leads from Saugatuck (above) to Greens Farms. (Photo/John Videler for VidelerPhotography.com)
=================================================
Meanwhile, Saturday’s main event will be the state high school basketball championship.
The Staples boys team — already 2-time FCIAC champions — competes for their first Connecticut crown since 1937.
Tip-off is 8:30 p.m., at Mohegan Sun.
Sure, it’s late — and at the other end of the state. But it’s been nearly a century since Westporters have been able to cheer the Wreckers on in a state boys basketball final.
Go Wreckers! And go Westporters — see you Saturday night at Mohegan Sun!
The Staples boys basketball team. (Photo/Diane Lowman)
=================================================
Looking ahead: The theme for the Memorial Day parade float contest has been announced.
And — looking back — it’s a great one: “250 Years of Honor and Service.
Certificates will be awarded in 6 categories: Best Development of Theme, Best Youth Organization Float, Most Creative, Best Community Organization, Most Colorful, and Best Overall Float.
Of course, we already know the winner in the Overall category.
It’s the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.
After all, they’ve won for the last 250 years.
Another Y’s Men Memorial Day parade float winner. This one won in 2021. (Photo/Dan Woog)
In their continuing effort to UnPlastic Westport, Sustainable Westport will show “Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics.” The documentary explores the alarming spread of microplastics throughout our planet — and our bodies.
The event — following a sold-out showing at SXSW — is April 9 (6:30 p.m., Greens Farms Academy). A panel discussion will follow the screening.
Westport Professionals Network co-founders Lisa Fedorchak and Katie Gervasio, analyzed the current job market, at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.
The WPN connects local college students and young professionals with job and networking opportunities. Volunteers offer mentorship and advice, in person and online.
“Right now, this is a tough time,” said Fedorchak. “The young professional unemployment rate is 10.5%.”
Lisa Fedorchak (speaking) and Katie Gervasio, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
=================================================
Westport resident Vivek Kanthan wants to end the drought of Americans ascending to the top of Formula 1.
“06880” last checked in just over a year ago, when he signed with the Formula 4 team Griffin Core by Campos — the top-ranked team in that division.
Since then, Kanthan won his first F4 race, captured Rookie of the Year honors, and set several records, including the single lap speed mark in Mexico City.
Last weekend, the 15-year-old placed 1st at the Spanish Winter Championship.
For more than 4 decades, The Susan Fund has provided college scholarships to Fairfield Country residents who have been diagnosed with cancer at some time in their life, and attend (or plan to) enroll in an institution of higher learning.
The Fund was established in 1980 in memory of her Susan Lloyd, a Staples High School graduate who lost her battle with cancer. Since its founding, the organization has provided over $2 million in scholarships to more than 300 students.
The deadline is near — April 1 — for applications for the 2026 school year. To apply or to learn more about the Susan Fund, click here.
On May 2, the Nolan Team at Compass is sponsoring a town-wide tag sale. It will likely be Westport’s biggest ever.
Residents can participate by hosting a sale at their own home.
It’s a great way to get plenty of publicity. The Nolan Team handles all promotion (including a sign for your lawn or driveway). Your address will be included on a map, and all publicity.
Shoppers can plan their own route, and visit multiple sales all day.
To participate, and for more information, click here.
300 years of passageways in Weston is the topic of an April 19 book talk at the Weston History & Culture Center.
Artist Julie O’Connor will discuss her 2008 book, “Doors of Weston.”
The lecture is free, but registration is required. Click here.
doors are accessible “portals” to understanding the evolution of Weston and its people over the last three centuries, as we celebrate America and Weston since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The Center says, “doors are accessible ‘portals’ to understanding the evolution of Weston and its people over the last 3 centuries, as we celebrate America and Weston since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.”
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between March 11 and 17.
A 44-year-old Woodside, New York man was charged with 2 counts of larceny, following 2 shoplifting incidents at Walgreens. Both involved allergy medications. One was of $2,659 worth of merchandise; the other was $1,964. He was extradited after being incarcerated for an unrelated matter in New York.He was held on a $40,000 bond.
A 50-year-old Redding man was charged with sexual assault, after a complaint by a restaurant employee that a customer had used his hand to pinch the victim’s buttocks.
A 44-year-old Plymouth, Massachusetts man was charged with failure to appear. He was held on a $25,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 9 citations
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 6
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5
Failure to obey stop sign: 5
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 4
Failure to renew registration: 4
Failure to obey traffic commission regulations: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without tint inspection: 2
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
