The other day, Andrew Colabella put out a social media plea.
The Representative Town Meeting member asked for donations of perennial plants, to spruce up the plaque on Compo Beach Road, opposite Quentin Road.
The site is the burial ground for Colonial patriots, killed in the Battle of Compo Hill as they ambushed British redcoats on their way back to their ships, after marching to an arsenal in Danbury.
Gardener/landscaper Sue Goldman offered 4 hydrangeas and 2 astilbes.RTM member Kristin Mott Purcell provided 2 hostas.
Andrew supplied the mulch, and the volunteer digging and planting.
PS: Andrew is applying for a grant and funding to locate the exact grave sites. Older photos would help. If you’ve got any, email acolabellartm4@gmail.com.
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A sold-out Levitt Pavilion rocked last night, to the music of Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers.
Bruce Hornsby (Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)
It was a paid-ticket event. But this week — as the Levitt has done for nearly half a century — they’ll sponsor several very cool (and free) shows.
Tonight (Sunday, July 2, 7 p.m.), Eight to the Bar brings their American roots music to the stage.
Celebrate July 4th (Tuesday, 7 p.m.) with the Jacob Jolliff Band, featuring some of the country’s top mandolinists.
Suzi Shelton headlines Wednesday’s Children’s Series (July 5, 7 p.m.).
It’s Americana rock on Thursday (July 6, 7 p.m.), with Chris and Marc Douglas Berardo.
Former Coasters lead singer Early Clover pays tribute to Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Nat King Cole, Otis Redding and more on Friday (July 7, 7:30 p.m.).
Internationally known (and Levitt favorites) Aztec Two-Step 2.0 — featuring Westport’s own Rex Fowler and Dodie Pettit — take the stage Saturday (July 8, 7:30 p.m.), for what is always a memorable show.
The week winds up next Sunday (July 9, 7 p.m.) with Charles Taylor & Uptown Swing.
All shows are free, but tickets are required. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Just one week remains before Westport celebrates our sister city of Lyman, Ukraine with a huge — and free — town-wide party.
Next Sunday (July 9, 1 p.m. to dusk), everyone is invited to the Ukrainian-American Club in Southport (just past the I-95 Exit 19 northbound entrance ramp).
The family-friendly event features food, beer, wine and soft drinks; music from the Mike McGovern Band, and more. It’s a way to thank Westporters for their $252,000 in donations last winter. Funds paid for building supplies, communications equipment, trash and garbage trucks, and hot meals.
But whether you contributed or not: Come celebrate Lyman, and learn more about our friends in that war-torn nation.
There will be opportunities to help too: a raffle, treasure sale, Yankee auction, coffee table book pull, plant sale, “LymanADE” stand and more. Lyman Mayor Alexander Zhuravlov will speak on a big screen.
VIP tickets ($350) include reserved seating, a commemorative gift, open bar, homemade Ukrainian-inspired meal and more.
VIP Plus tickets ($1,000) receive all benefits above, plus signage with your family name or company logo, a message for the Ukrainian people, and a Ukraine flag signed by Mayor Zhuravlov.
To RSVP, purchase VIP tickets and for more information, click here.
Westport Veterans of Foreign Wars Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 has hosted Red Cross blood drives for 36 straight months. The collections have benefited thousands of people. One donation can save 3 lives.
The most recent event, on Friday, was sponsored by the Goddard School, a few yards away from the VFW on Saugatuck Avenue.
The next drive is July 19. Click here, then search for “vfwwestport” for more information, and to sign up.
At Friday’s VFW blood drive (from left): Phil Delgado, VFW Post 399 quartermaster, sponsor Kristen Bodenstein of Westport Goddard School, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Frank Veno, VFW Post 399 commander.
Westport Pride has joined 3 dozen community organizations in Connecticut and New York in condemning Friday’s Supreme Court ruling. By a 6-3 margin, justices sided with a Christian graphic designer who refused to create wedding websites for gay or lesbian couples.
The joint statement says:
“The highest Court set a chilling precedent that entities serving the public can pick and choose who they serve and deny services to queer customers. What’s more, it comes at a time when LGBTQ+ rights are under attack by legislators across the country.
“We, the LGBTQ+ leaders across New York and Connecticut see this decision as a dangerous step on an already roughly paved path towards fascism and the undoing of great gains we’ve made towards equality and justice for all. Freedom of expression should not be used to discriminate, especially against those most marginalized historically.
“We believe that our towns, cities, and country are stronger when we embrace the diversity of our communities and when we can live free from the fear of discrimination or attack.
“We call on all businesses to disavow the Court’s validation of discrimination and pledge to serve LGBTQ+ and all customers. We ask you to stand with us and staunchly against hate in all forms.”
And finally … before Bruce Hornsby formed the Noisemakers (story above), his band was The Range.
His song “The Way It Is” — a social commentary song about civil rights — reached the #1 spot in 1986.
(From Lyman, Ukraine to the Levitt Pavilion, “06880” keeps you in the loop about all things Westport-related. Please click here to help us keep doing it. Thank you!)
Tickets are going fast for the greatest party in town: the Independence Day fireworks.
They’re early this year: this Thursday (June 29). As always, Compo Beach is the place to be.
The event is sponsored — once again — by longtime Westport residents Melissa and Doug Bernstein. Their generosity allows Westport PAL to benefit from ticket sales — and run programs and offer scholarships impacting thousands of kids.
Tickets ($50 per car) can be bought at the Westport Police station (50 Jesup Road) and Parks & Recreation office (in Longshore Park), during business hours.
They’re first-come, first-served. And no one gets into Compo without one.
Yesterday’s s Great Duck Race was a huge success. Attendees — win or lose — had tons of fun. The Westport Sunrise Rotary Club put on another successful event. And the many non-profits that will benefit from the fundraiser will be thrilled.
But there were smaller moments to celebrate too. Here’s one.
Jo Luciano grew up in Westport. She now lives in Florida, but had a special reason to donate to the Duck fundraiser: Her father — Police Chief Sam Luciano — died suddenly in 1970. The Westport Rotary Club generously paid for her, and her sister Carol’s, college educations.
Jo had trouble making the online donation. She found the address for the Rotary Club — but it was “Westport Rotary,” not the “Sunrise Rotary” that puts on the event.
No problem. Leslie Roberts of Westport Rotary forwarded Jo’s email to the Sunrise club.
Problem solved! Jo bought 3 ducks.
But there’s also this Westport-is-really-just-a-small-town postscript: Sunrise Rotary past president Rick Jaffe told Jo: “I live on the other side of the train station from Luciano Park. I take my grandchildren there whenever they visit.”
That’s right: the small park in Saugatuck is named for Jo’s father, the late police chief.
It’s great that Jo still feels connected to Westport. And that Rick now feels a bit more connected to Luciano Park.
Here’sPolice another Great Duck Race story: At the end of a very busy day, Dave Hoffman of the Makin’ Waves food truck had one coconut shrimp left.
He knew Sunrise Rotarian Sheila Keenan loves it. So he walked it across the street, and presented it to an equally exhausted — but very grateful — Sheila.
Dave Hoffman, Sheila Keenan and the coconut shrimp. (Photo and hat tip/Richard Jaffe)
Meanwhile, this morning — at the ungodly hour of 4 a.m. — 21 teenagers and 6 adult leaders left Saugatuck Congregational Church, for their annual youth mission trip.
This year’s destination: Washington state. They’ll help with flood recovery, and work with families in need.
Previous mission trips have included Colorado, Arizona, Maine, Alabama, Puerto Rico, and Cuba.
Saugatuck Church youth group. (Photo/Mark Mathias)
Green’s Farms Congregational Church’s youth group left this weekend too, on their mission.
And finally … on this date in 1876, the 2-day Battle of the Little Bighorn began. It was an overwhelming victory for the combined Lakota Sioux, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes, and a humiliating defeat for the US Army’s 7th Cavalry. Five of their 12 companies were wiped out; General George Armstrong Custer was killed, along with 2 brothers, a nephew and a brother-in-law.
One of Westport’s newest — but quick-selling-out — traditions is the Westport Public Schools’ Pops Concert.
The Levitt Pavilion event — featuring the Staples High School Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble, Choralaires and other small ensembles — returns Friday, June 9 (7 p.m.). The host is Westport’s own music and media maestro, David Pogue.
Tickets will be available at staplesmusic.org beginning at 9 a.m. on May 31. They’re first-come, first-served — and free! (A donation of $15 per ticket is suggested, to help offset the concert’s production costs.)
The Levitt lawn opens at 5:30 p.m. BYO chair — but food trucks will be there for picnickers.
The use of automated cameras to enforce speed limit and red light violations in Connecticut moved closer to reality yesterday.
The House voted 104-46 in favor. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Enforcement would be limited to school zones, pedestrian safety zones and other locations approved by the Office of State Traffic Administration. Speeders would have to go at least 10 miles per hour over the limit to get an automated ticket.
Fines would not surpass $50 for a first offense, $75 for a second offense. Revenues would go to municipalities, to be used for traffic-related expenses.
Click here for the full story, on Connecticut Mirror.
Red light traffic camera.
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Pulitzer Prize finalist Nicholas Dawidoff is the main attraction tomorrow night at the Westport Library
He’ll join former Assistant US Attorney Althea Seaborn to talk about his book The Other Side of Prospect: A Story of Violence, Injustice, and the American City (Thursday, May 25, 7 p.m.).
He will be in conversation with Norwalk Community College Professor and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Althea Seaborn.
Dawidoff spent 8 years researching and writing in his hometown of New Haven. Urban decay, white flight and redlining helped contribute to the transformation of Newhallville. Dawidoff makes these symptoms of “racist neglect” vividly clear.
But Pink Aid — the organization offering support and financial assistance to patients during treatment, and their families — will benefit from a night of comedy next month.
The event is June 1 (7 p.m., Chabad of Westport). Featured comedians include Cody Marino, Beau McDowell, Andrew Ginsburg and Nick Scopoletti. Tickets ($75 each) include 2 drinks, popcorn and candy. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Twenty soon-to-graduate high school rowers were honored for their hard work, persistence and commitment Monday, by the Saugatuck Rowing Club. Nine live in Westport.
Saugatuck Rowing Club seniors from Staples High School (from left): Elisabeth Chadwick, Janna Moore, Dylan Halky, Wyatt Dodge, Jesse Herman, Luke Miller, Cooper Weyers, and Vincent Penna all attend Staples. Andrew Bacro (not pictured) attends the Pierrepont School,
The seniors and other teammates competed last weekend to qualify for Young Nationals in Sarasota, Florida in June.
Robin Tauck returned to the University of Vermont on Sunday. This time, the 1977 graduate gave the commencement address at graduation ceremonies for the Grossman School of Business.
Robin is a longtime Westporter. She is a 3rd-generation oo-owner and former president and CEO of Tauck Inc., the luxury travel company started by her grandfather in 1925, and headquartered for many years here.
She is a business graduate of UVM, Stanford University’s Executive Business Program, and the University of Cambridge Leaders Sustainability Program.
She was recently honored at the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame in Hartford, for her career in “Global Impact.”
But with so many local connections, it might as well be.
For example, Westporter Coke Anne Wilcox is president of the board of trustees. Caroline Calder serves as vice president, while Belinda Shepard and Richard “Deej” Webb are both trustees.
Westport poet laureate/Westport Writers’ Workshop instructor Jessie McEntee handles marketing and communications at Pequot.
Alex Heekin works in development. Jane Manners is the beloved children’s Librarian. Leslie Mahtani, also a librarian, works at the circulation desk.
Though the Pequot Library receives 20% of its annual funding from the town of Fairfield, it must raise the other 80% on its own.
One method: an annual Southport Garden Stroll. This year’s event — a behind-closed-gates peek at 8 stunning outdoor space — is June 2. Click here for tickets, and more information.
One more Westport tie-in: TV host/author/lifestyle expert/realtor Mar Jennings hosts the June 1 Champagne & Canapé kickoff party.
Pequot Library.
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A new farm dinner — an “intimate, bourbon-inspired” event — has been added to the Wakeman Town Farm menu.
It’s July 12. But, WTF notes, it makes a great Fathers Day gift.
Chef Lamour Workman promises that each course will be paired with a specialty bourbon, created by Bridgeport’s Fifth State Distillery.
Tickets are $125 each. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Longtime Westporter Sophia Makowski, most recently of Wallingford, died peacefully on Saturday.
The 9th child of 10, and a “second mother” to several family members, Sophie is remembered for her “incredible endurance, priceless humor, sharp wit, and unending support of her loved ones.” Loved by all who met her.
Sophia’s funeral is tomorrow (Thursday, May 25, 11 a.m., Assumption Church). Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery, Greens Farms Road.
And finally … Linda Lewis died earlier this month, near London. She was 72.
I never heard of her. But the New York Times took note. She was “a critically acclaimed soul singer and songwriter whose pyrotechnic voice propelled four Top 10 singles as a solo artist in her native Britain and led to work as a backup vocalist on acclaimed albums by stars like David Bowie, Cat Stevens and Rod Stewart.”
The newspaper added: “Ms. Lewis drew raves for her soaring five-octave vocal range and impressed listeners with her genre-hopping instincts, drawing from folk, R&B, rock, reggae, pop and — with more than a nudge from label executives — disco.”
Click here for the full obituary. And enjoy (as I did) this sampling of her work:
(If you get a ticket to the Westport Pops Concert, thank “06880.” You can say thanks with a contribution, too — just click here. Thank you!)
Posted onMay 5, 2023|Comments Off on Roundup: Music Honors, Library Book Sale, Twiddle …
It’s getting to be routine. But it never gets old.
For the 11th year in a row, the Westport Public Schools have been named a “Best Community for Music Education,” by the NAMM Foundation.
The honor goes to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students.
The application process includes questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. The Music Department cites partnerships with organizations like the Westport Library, Levitt Pavilion, PTA Cultural Arts, WestPAC and Westport Arts Advisory Committee.
Encore!
Westport music instructors take bows, at the Levitt Pavilion Pops Concert.
The Westport Library’s spring book sale starts today (Friday).
Thousands of gently used books for children and adults are available in over 50 categories, plus vintage children’s and antiquarian books, music CDs, and movie and television DVDs.
Of special interest: Books donated from the homes of former US cabinet member Joseph Califano; NBC Sports producer Ricky Diamond, and philanthropist and educator Elisabeth Luce Moore, sister of Henry Luce (Time-Life founder). Many of the books in the Califano collection have been signed political, journalist, literatary and entertainment figures.
Plus a collection of works by or about James Joyce, and an extensive collection of history books, especially US and world politics, and World War II.
The “Fiction for $1” room is back by popular demand, filled with hardcover fiction, mystery, science fiction, fantasy and young adult fiction, plus paperbacks, just $1 each.
Vinyl records, graphic novels and manga will be available at the Westport Book Shop, across Jesup Green from the Library.
Friday, May 5: Noon to 6 p.m.
Saturday, May 6: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, May 7: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; almost everything half-price.
Monday, May 8: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.: fill a logo bags for $8 (or fill your own equivalent-sized bag for $5), or purchase individual items for half price.
Years ago, as a student at Providence College, Alison Reilly became interested in American Sign Language.
This year she began exploring how to add it to the Staples High School curriculum. She cites the benefits of learning any language, including improved memory, attention and problem-solving skills, and increased cultural awareness and sensitivity.
Studies have shown that learning ASL can have cognitive and academic benefits for students. Learning a second language has been shown to improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, and ASL is no exception. In addition, learning ASL can help students become more culturally aware and sensitive, and demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
Schools like Brown, Columbia, Harvard, MIT, NYU, Berkeley, Michigan, Penn and Yale all accept ASL as fulfilling students’ world language requirement for admission.
Fairfield, Wilton and Greenwich already include ASL in their course offerings, Reilly says.
Assistant superintendent of schools of teaching and learning Anthony Buono says, “We currently offer ASL online as an elective. We have had conversations about offering it as a World Language option, but nothing formal has transpired.
“One significant challenge is finding certified teachers. Darien is currently searching for a teacher and has been unable to find one.”
Reilly says she’ll keep “06880” posted on the progress of her initiative.
Artist/photographer Miggs Burroughs created “Signs of Compassion,” by asking 30 Westporters to sign a different word, in Emily Dickinson’s poem of the same name.
In his work with “CBS Sunday Morning,” PBS’ “Nova,” the Missing Manuals tech guides and more, David Pogue calls himself a “professional explainer.”
At Monday’s Y’s Women meeting (May 8, 11:15 a.m., Green’s Farms Church), he’ll explain something all of us have heard about, but few understand: artificial intelligence.
It’s useful — and terrifying. An app can write anything you ask it to: Letters, song lyrics, research papers, recipes, therapy sessions, poems, essays, software code.
Other apps create music, perfectly mimic anybody’s voice, and generate complete video scenes from typed descriptions.
His talk is so important, the Y’s Women are inviting everyone to come. So be “wise”: Go hear David Pogue.
The Westport and Fairfield Senior Centers co-hosted a “Meet the Authors yesterday, in Westport Nearly 2 dozen local authors chatted informally about their works (and sold copies).
Susan Garment buys an autographed copy of “I Pried Open Wall Street In 1962: Overcoming Barriers, Hurdles and Obstacles – A Memoir” from author Winston Allen. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
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Twiddle — the Vermont-based ensemble that played to sold-out Levitt Pavilion crowds last summer — returns for a 2-day, 4-set festival July 21-22. (Click here for a great video of that weekend.)
It’s extra special, because soon after, they’ll take an indefinite hiatus from touring.
The Twiddle Festival also includes Lespecial, Kung Fu, Oh He Dead, and one more band to be announced soon. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Twiddle
The Levitt Pavilion recently announced a new slate of free shows, too.
The Suffers — an 8-piece Gulf Coast Soul/rock/country/Latin/Southern hip hop/Stax and Muscle Shoals band from Houston — take the stage July 14.
Calexico’s “Feast of Wire 20th Anniversary Tour” is August 17.
Click here for free tickets, and more information.
Do you have questions about aging, like who will protect your financial assets, how to navigate healthcare, and whether you can age in place?
The Residence at Westport hosts a panel on “Navigating Senior Care Options” (May 16, 2 p.m., 1141 Post Road East).
Representatives from Cohen & Wolf, Constellation Health Services, Growing Options, Hartford Healthcare Geriatric Medicine, Moneco Advisors, National Heath Care Associates, Privatus Care Solutions, Stardust Move Managers, The Carolton and William Raveis Real Estate will join The Residence experts.
Westport artists Dale Najarian and Tomira Wilcox are featured in the “Shadows Revealed” exhibit at Sono1420 craft distillers in South Norwalk.
Proceeds from a portion of sales, and an artwork raffle at the opening reception May 11 (6 to 8 p.m.) benefit The Rowan Center sexual assault resource agency.
Artwork by Dale Najarian.
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Laurel Canyon comes to Westport on May 13.
Voices Café’s next concert (8 p.m., the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport) features with The Bar Car Band. Their “Songs & Stories of Laurel Canyon” — with the music of Carole King, Carly Simon, Linda Ronstadt, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, Neil Young, Tom Waits, Buffalo Springfield, the Byrds and more — is a benefit for the Green Village Initiative.
The Bar Car Band includes Nina Hammerling on vocals, Russell Smith on guitar and vocals, plus Joe Izzo (drums), Scott Spray (bass), Tim DeHuff (guitar), Tim Stone (keyboards), David Allen Rivera (percussion), Amy Crenshaw (vocals) and narrator Hadley Boyd.
There’s café-style seating (at tables) or individual seating, plus room for dancing. Bring your own beverages and snacks; snacks are available for purchase too. Tickets are $25 each. Click here for tickets and more information.
The Bar Car Band
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LaBeaute Artistry Brow & Nails has just opened, in the rear of the 234 Post Road East building that is anchored by Calico (just east of Imperial Avenue).
Owners Penny Yi and her sister, and their team, specialize in designs and nail extensions. They offer mani and pedi, microblading, brows lamination, tinting, waxing and other services.
Right now, there is 20% off for promgoers and new clients. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For more information, call 203-349-5655.
The first rainbow of the year rose yesterday evening.
Mary Beth Stirling spotted it over Compo Beach. She notes that it’s just in time for today’s Full Flower Moon.
And Cinco de Mayo.
(Photo/Mary Beth Stirling)
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is more proof — not that any is needed — that spring has arrived. Sunil Hirani captured this image on Riverside Avenue.
(Photo/Sunil Hirani)
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And finally … in honor of Voices Café’s Laurel Canyon show (story above):
Comments Off on Roundup: Music Honors, Library Book Sale, Twiddle …
Nearly 40 years after Hall & Oates did not appear in Westport, Daryl Hall will be here.
That 1985 non-event is the stuff of local legend. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the town, Hall & Oates were signed for a special concert at Longshore.
Except the signing was done by a Westport nanny, who had no connection with the duo. It was, to use the technical term, BS.
Nearly 4,o0o people thronged Longshore, on a beautiful day.
They waited … waited … and waited. No Hall. No Oates. Nothing.
Staples High School student Cary Pierce had a band. They stepped up, saving the day (and kick-starting Cary’s eventual career, as one half of Jackopierce).
Now — in a new millennium — Daryl Hall has been signed for a Levitt Pavilion gala. He will be here August 24.
And there’s more: Todd Rundgren joins, as a special guest.
Levitt member pre-sale begins today at 10 a.m. Public sale starts Friday, at 10 a.m. Click here for all tickets. Click here for sponsorship opportunities.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is sill going strong. Four decades later, we’ll get to see for ourselves.
Hall and Oates, back in the day.
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More entertainment: Music returns to Church Lane June 2.
Area artists have already been booked, to add to the al fresco enjoyment of restaurants like Spotted Horse and soon-to-open The Blondinit.
The entertainment runs through September 30.
Click here for a full schedule — and a link to donate to the cause.
Staples High School’s Jazz Ensemble rocked the National Jazz Festival this past weekend in Philadelphia.
They placed 2nd in the top division, with drummer Witt Lindau receiving one of 3 Outstanding Musician medals. .
This is the second time the jazz program at Staples has been recognized nationally in recent years. The Staples High School Jazz Combo received first place in Small Ensemble Live Performance at the 2021 National Jazz Festival.
Congratulations to instructors Phil Giampietro, Gregg Winters, and all the young, award-winning musicians: seniors Jason Capozucca, Jaime Paul, Ana Jahnel, Delaney McGee, Henry Now, Jet Tober and Witt Lindau; juniors Freddie Aldridge, Zach Abramowitz, Deneil Betfarhad, Spencer Geiss, Ethan Walkmark and Matt Weiner; sophomores Sam Rondon, Tommy Linn and Cooper Paul, and freshman Charlie Beckwith.
The Staples High School Jazz Ensemble. Director Phil Giampietro is in the front row, at right.
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Today’s “What’s Next in Weston” with 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor covers the plan and timeline for construction of Weston’s first sidewalks. Click below for insights into this town-changing event, courtesy of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.
Speaking of podcasts: Beth Berger sends along a link.
In it,, former Westporter Blanche Napoleon is interviewed about her friendship with Dan Hartman. In the 1970s she made music with him in his “schoolhouse” studio here.
Blanche was a background singer on some of Dan’s biggest disco hits (“Instant Replay”, “Relight My Fire”, “Love Sensation”). They remained good friends until his death from AIDS in 1993.
“It’s a great piece of Westport musical history,” Beth — who is now friendly with Blanche, her Palm Beach neighbor — writes.
The expanded Bruce Museum reopened 3 weeks ago. It showcases community, art, science and education, in a natural light setting.
Yesterday, the Y’s Women enjoyed a fascinating presentation by executive director and CEO Robert Wolstertoff.
The painting, sculpture, mineral and science galleries (the latter featuring penguins past and present) are free on Tuesdays. Free passes to the Bruce (and other museums) are available at the Westport Library.
Robert Wolstertorff at the Y’s Women meeting.
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Sunday’s rain did not deter Pam Constantikes’ friends.
A crew from Staples High School’s Class of 1981 walked to raise money for research to end pancreatic cancer, in her honor.
They note that contributions can still be made. Click here to help.
Walking for Pat Constantikes (from left): Suzanne Sherman Propp, Patty Kondub, Linda Prestegaard, Ann Wriedt Sisto, Lauren Tarshis, Susan Charlton Wallace, Helen Rauh Glenn.
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A new monthly podcast for the Westport Library’s Verso Studios features 2 familiar faces: Westport Writing Workshop leaders Patricia Dunn and Tessa Smith McGovern.
“Go Ahead, Write Something” is for “writers who want motivation and the deep-down truths about getting published, and how to find joy in writing and sharing your work with the world.”
The podcast launch begins this month. Five episodes are available via traditional podcast aggregators. Among them: Dunn and Smith McGovern’s StoryFest 2023 discussion with bestselling fantasy author Naomi Novik.
So it was appropriate that this one — the subject of today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — was fishing for dinner the other night behind the police station.
Thursday was special for dozens of Club 203 members, relatives, friends and volunteers.
TAP Strength hosted the social group for adults with disabilities, at their 8th event of the year.
The “field day” was led by TAP founder EJ Zebro. His 5-person team facilitated stations for soccer, volleyball, dancing, cornhole, musical chairs and giant Jenga.
Also on “tap”: music, snacks, hacky sack prizes, and lots of laughs.
Joining TAP on Jesup Green were MoCA Westport (crafts and art project), Westport Book Shop (open late for parents to hang out), Lesser Evil Popcorn (snacks), and Kevin Godburn of Toquet Hall (tables and chairs).
Club 203’s next event: a fun day May 25, sponsored by Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department. Click here for more information on the group.
EJ Zebro (far right) and friends have fun at Jesup Green.
Martha Stewart returns to Westport June 1 (4 to 6 p.m.).
And not just anywhere. The former resident and longtime lifestyle guru will be back at her old Turkey Hill home. She’ll share memories of her years there, as she started her business and grew her media empire.
She’ll guide guests through the gardens, ending with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the patio. (A few guests will stay for dinner with Stewart.)
It’s a fundraiser for Positive Directions, Westport’s behavioral health organization addressing the national mental health crisis.
Tickets are $1,000; $2,500 gets you that dinner. Click here to purchase, and for more details.
Former Westporter Martha Stewart.
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A baseball game between the only 2 undefeated teams in the FCIAC should be a nail-biter.
Yesterday’s was anything but.
Chase Siegel threw a perfect game. He needed just 59 pitches to shut down Danbury 10-0. The game ended early, thanks to the mercy (10-run lead) rule.
It’s been a great season so far for the 7-1 Wreckers, whose lone loss was 8-7 to non-league Fairfield Prep.
Staples has been led by pitchers Hiro Wyatt and Chris Zajac — and great defense. They’ve made only 1 error all season long. Ethan Cukier sparkled at shortstop against the Hatters.
In other Wrecker sports news, the boys lacrosse team — 6-1 after knocking off powerhouses like Massapequa, Bergen Catholic and Darien (13-11, storming back from an 8-1 halftime deficit) are ranked 16th in the latest national poll.
Chase Siegel. (Photo courtesy of Allison Ginzburg for The Ruden Report)
Kings Highway Elementary School students arrived early yesterday, to meet 2 special guests.
First Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Police Chief Foti Koskinas starred in a special “Rise & Read” event. They chatted with parents and kids over donuts, hot chocolate and coffee.
Tooker knows KHS well: Her 3 children went there. She read aloud to the current students from a very appropriate book: “Duck for President.”
The youngsters then asked questions, ranging from what she did to if her job is hard, and the benefits of having an office so close to Cold Fusion.
First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, and “Duck for President.”
Last night’s Pics of the Day featured a young couple enjoying the sunset in a hammock.
Also yesterday; another man proposed, to another woman.
Jody Peters saw it all happen, from a discreet distance. She reports: “I think she said yes…she put the ring on and they exchanged a kiss. It was beautiful.”
(Photo/Jody Peters)
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Everyone knows Amy Irving as an actress.
She’s now a musician. “Born in A Trunk” includes 10 cover songs, pulled from her life and career.
On June 21 (7 p.m.), Westport welcomes her to the Levitt Pavilion stage.
Free tickets are available now to Levitt members. They’ll be available to everyone else on Monday at noon. Click here for yours.
Amy Irving
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For years, one of the joys of Parker Harding Plaza — how’s that for an oxymoron?! — has been the pedestrian bridge.
Jutting into the Saugatuck River just a few yards from asphalt and automobiles, it offers a serene chance to stroll, observe nature, and relax.
Not anymore.
A chain and stern sign now keep everyone at bay.
(Photo/Diane Bosch)
It’s not clear whether the danger is because of rotting wood, to protect nesting swans, or another reason.
Nor is it clear when — or if — the bridge will be safe again.
Or who, exactly, is in charge of making it so.
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The apple doesn’t fall far …
Shea Frimmer — child of Coleytown Middle School Company’s theater program — is directing a reading of “9:47” — a world premier play. It’s next Friday (April 28, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall).
The cast includes 2 professional adult actors, and 3 students.
Tickets are $7 in advance, $10 at the door. Click here to purchase.
State Representative Dominique Johnson’s office is open to submissions for a Pride Month video essay contest. Any high school student in Westport or Norwalk can enter.
Video submissions should answer this question: “What is something you have done to build community that makes you most proud?” Creativity counts — but videos must be between 1 and 3 minutes only.
There are 2 categories: 9th-10th grade, and 11th-12th. Winners will receive a state citation, and be honored by Representative Johnson June 10 in Norwalk.
Heli Stagg manages the Westport Library café. She sees this view — and others like it, though always changing — often.
Today, she shares it with “06880” readers, for our “Westport … Naturally” treat.
(Photo/Heli Stagg)
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And finally … in honor of the prodigal daughter returning to town (story above):
(You may or may not want to pay $2,500 — or even $1,000 — to see Martha Stewart. But you can contribute any amount to “06880.” We’re happy for any help! Please click here. And thank you!)
Posted onMarch 15, 2023|Comments Off on Roundup: Sweetgreen, Y Memories, March Madness …
As reported last July on “06880,” Sweetgreen will be opening in Westport.
The salad-and-bowl fast casual restaurant — with over 150 outlets in more than a dozen states — will replace Organic Krush.
Although Sweetgreen representatives went before the Architectural Review Board with plans for their new restaurant in July, Organic Krush protested vociferously that they were not leaving.
After 100 years, the Westport Weston Family YMCA knows plenty of folks have lots of memories. And memorabilia.
As part of their century celebration they ask members, former members and everyone else to haul out their photo albums, think back on the past, and share what they find. Click here to submit.
All year long, the Y will feature those photos and stories on their lobby monitor, website and social media, and in email newsletters.
Click here for the dedicated web page. Click below for a sample submission.
The media celebrity (Fox News, NBC Sports, CNN) is hosting “March Madness Fast Break” for Turner Sports. It’s noon to midnight, Thursday through Sunday on MarchMadness.com and the March Madness Live app.
Dave calls it “Red Zone for college basketball with the best live action, analysis and social media reaction.” He partners with a pair of legends: Kentucky’s Tony Delk and Wake Forest’s Randolph Childress.
The Levitt Pavilion season is still 3 months away. But — to help raise funds for over 50 nights of free entertainment — the riverside outdoor venue has just announced 2 special ticketed events.
Samara Joy — 2023 Grammy Award winner for Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album — takes the stage June 3. Triple Grammy winner Bruce Hornsby follows with the Noisemakers on July 1. Both Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m.
Member pre-sales start today (Wednesday, March 15) at 10 a.m. Public sales start Friday (March 17, 10 a.m.).
Tickets are already on sale for the June 24 show: Michael Franti & Spearhead Big Big Love Tour, with Phillip Phillips.
Representative Town Meeting member Matthew Mandell joins other elected officials this morning (Wednesday, March 15, 10 a.m.; Zoom).
They’ll speak prior to the state General Assembly Planning & Development Committee’s public hearing on HB 6890, the “Live Work Ride” bill that proposes withholding, withdrawing and perhaps clawing back state infrastructure funding from communities that fail to adopt regulations permitting greater density, with limited parking and a prescribed affordability component, around transit areas.
Mandell and his colleagues are part of “CT169Strong.” It’s a statewide non-partisan group “dedicated to local control and oversight, and protecting the unique qualities of Connecticut’s 169 towns.
Click here for a link to Mandell’s meeting. The ID is 455 019 2513; the passcode is 6C436A.
Love the Westport Library? Want to help make it even better?
The Library and Representative Town Meeting are seeking candidates to fill vacancies on the Library board of trustees.
Trustees work closely with the executive director, in areas like funding, policies and planning. They develop long-range plans, monitor the budget and help oversee fundraising. The board meets monthly; there are also committee meetings.
Trustees must be Westport residents. There are 20 members. Half are appointed by the RTM, half by the Library board itself.
More information about the role of trustees is available here.
Applicants should email a resume and letter of interest to rpowell@westportlibrary,org. by April 17, with information on how past work and experience qualify them for consideration as a trustee.
How can parents and caregivers support healthy identity development in young children?
Many ways. And you can learn about them at “Supporting Healthy Identity Development in Young Children: Race, Culture and Beyond.” The Westport Library keynote (April 4, 7 to 8:30 p.m.) is led by Takiema Bunche Smith, founder and CEO of Anahsa Consulting and a noted executive leader, advisor, coach and educator.
The session will explore “how adults socialize young children into racial, cultural and other social identities, and what that means in the context of an inequitable US society.”
Click here for more information. The event is sponsored by TEAM Westport.
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