I’m not sure what was in the air (or water) yesterday. But three — three! — readers sent examples of jaw-droppingly, spectacularly self-centered entitled parking jobs.
In 3 different parking lots.
Occasionally, photos like these bring out apologists. “The parking brake must have failed, and it rolled backward!” people will say.
Or, “Maybe it was a medical emergency!”
Judging by where these folks “parked” — no.
They are just drivers who can’t be bothered to read signs, follow rules, or think about anyone other than themselves.
Don’t be That Guy.
This is an actual parked car in the Parker Harding lot. No one could squeeze by. Entire lines of cars had to back up, for a looooong time. The car was eventually towed. (Photo/Miggs Burroughs)
This driver took up a clearly marked handicap-adjacent zone, yet pulled in crookedly and not fully, blocking everyone trying to pass in the narrow lane behind him. (Yes, it was a male.) (Photo/Rob Campignino)
No, this driver was not pulling out of the upper Westport Library lot. This was a parked car, with no driver in sight. Again, for quite a while. (Photo/David Sampson)
Lynsey Addario — the 1991 Staples High School graduate whose New Your Times photos from Ukraine have impacted the world — was the Friday night guest on “Firing Line.”
Click here to see Margaret Hoover’s riveting interview with the Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist. (Hat tip: Debbie Zucker)
A large crowd of punks — and art lovers — filled MoCA Westport’s galleries last night.
“Punk is Coming” had its grand opening. The diverse group exhibition features over 50 photographers, filmmakers and artists whose work defined the punk era in 1970’s New York, London, Los Angeles and other cities. There are never-before-seen videos and photographs,, art created by the era’s musicians, and contemporary works heavily influenced by the movement.
Free supporting programming, featuring those central to the punk movement (like the original video jockey!) take place on Thursday evenings. Click here to learn more.
The show runs through June 5.
MoCA’s “Punk is Coming” exhibit. (Photo/Leslie LaSala)
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features a fox. Bob Weingarten apologies for not getting a full side-on view. But it’s still a fine-looking creature.
A rally in support of the Ukrainian people, and against Russian aggression, is set for tomorrow (Saturday, March 26, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.) on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge downtown.
A rally earlier this month drew hundreds of attendees. This will be smaller, but no doubt just as heartfelt.
Georgians have suffered under Russian rule. Earlier this month, these natives of that nation showed solidarity with Ukrainians on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge. (Photo/Susan Woog Wagner)
Speaking of Ukraine: The world owes Lynsey Addario a huge debt of thanks.
The Pulitzer Prize and MacArthur Fellow-winning New York Times photojournalist — and, not for nothing, a 1991 Staples High School graduate — has taken some of the most riveting photos in the month since Russia invaded Ukraine. Her images have opened billions of eyes to the horrors of this war.
Yesterday, Lynsey returned home — to her home in London, anyway. Her family there — and her parents, Westporters Phillip and Camille, and her 3 sisters spread across the US — are grateful for her safe return.
Lauren, Lynsey, Lisa and Lesley Addario — the 4 sisters.
So far, we’ve heard — from various Jersey Mike’s communications — that they are “closed permanently” (front door) and “temporarily closed for renovation” (social media).
“06880” reader Jason Stiber used the company’s “Support” function to ask if they were closing the Westport location.
The response, from “Kristin” of the Customer Relations Team at Jersey Mike’s Franchise Systems, Inc. in Manasquan (New Jersey, of course) was: “The store is relocating. That is all the information we have at this time. Please feel free to check back for updated information.”
So that’s a third option. Almost as difficult as deciding what to order there …
“06880” reader James Grogan asks: “What are the best places — coffee shops, areas of the Library, etc. — in Westport (and surrounding areas) with Wi-Fi to get work done? I have a fully remote job, and want to change my routine.”
I’m sure he’s not the only one. If you’ve got a favorite spot — and don’t mind sharing it — click “Comments” below.
When the power went out during Tropical Storm Isais in 2020, Westporters took advantage of the library’s WiFi al fresco — masked and socially distanced, of course. (Photo/Miggs Burroughs)
That’s the name of the peer-to-peer social support group for LGBTQ youth (and their allies), ages 12 to 19. It’s part of Kids in Crisis, the Greenwich-based social service organization.
Meetings take place every Monday from 5 to 7 p.m., at Toquet Hall. Two adults are always present, And there is food!
Questions? Email program coordinator Joe Belisle: lighthouse@kidsincrisis.org.
The Westport Police Department earned national recognition for its work in helping donate more than 200 previously used ballistic vests and helmets to Ukrainian fighters.
They — along with departments in Brookfield, Darien, Easton, Fairfield, Greenwich, Monroe, Norwalk, Stratford, Trumbull and Wilton, plus Western Connecticut State University — joined the effort.
Police1 — a national website — highlighted the donations as its Photo of the Week:
Donated vests and helmets: Police1’s Photo of the Week.
Connectalent — the Westport-based recruiting company that places female talent and increases diversity within companies, –has just received B-Corp certification from B Lab.
Connectalent qualifies as a full-service recruiting agency that aims to solve a social issue through its work serving an underserved population of candidates — a group that faces chronic discrimination in a particular market, which includes job discrimination based on gender.
Lynsey Addario’s photo of a family killed on the street in Ukraine horrified the world.
“06880” has reported on the reaction, and the back story. Yesterday, Lynsey — a 1991 Staples High School graduate — described it herself, on the New York Times’ “The Daily” podcast. Click here to listen to her fascinating, important words. (Hat tips: Tommy Greenwald, Lee Feldman, Susan Woog Wagner)
Ukrainian soldiers do what they can, moments after a mortar attack on civilians on the streets of Irpin, near Kyiv. (Photo/Lynsey Addario for The New York Times)
Speaking of Ukraine: Irene Braziler is a native of that country. She’s spent the last 17 years in Westport; her sons Jake and Sam are in school here.
Last Thursday, Irene left for Romania. She met longtime Ukrainian friends at the border, where she’s helped them with cars and accommodations as they make their way to safety.
A video shared by Irene’s Westport friend Kelly Haazen shows the women — after being attacked, leaving their husbands behind, heading to an unknown destination with no idea how long they’d be there — beaming with joy at the sight of their old friend Irene.
Irene has started a GoFundMe drive to provide support to hospitals in Ukraine, civilians like her friends, and many others in desperate need. Every dollar donated will directly impact refugees and medical aid efforts, through DirectRelief.org.
The media personality hosts a streaming show for Turner Sports during the first 2 rounds of the hoops classic.
“Fast Break” features Briggs, Kentucky legend Tony Delk, Georgia Tech coach Josh Pastner, and former Northwestern player/sports betting expert Tim Doyle. There’s action from every game, analysis, and player and social media reaction.
Sure, Ken Jennings and Amy Schneider won over $1 million on “Jeopardy!” But could they do what Aalok Bhattacharya, Oliver Clachko and Thomas Sargent have done?
The Staples students — a junior and 2 seniors, respectively — took first place in last month’s regional History Bowl competition on Long Island.
They don’t just have to answer obscure questions (or, in “Jeopardy!”-speak, provide questions to answers). The History Bowl — run by former “Jeopardy!” champ David Madden — is buzzer-based. But there are toss-up questions, a lightning round, and besides, these are just high school students.
But — unlike Sam Cooke — Aalok, Oliver and Thomas know a lot about history. And not just our own. They know Roman history, European history, the history of philosophy — you name it, they know it.
And they practice it after school, with faculty advisor (and chemistry teacher) Dominick Messina. They work on questions and answers — and on being first to buzz the buzzer.
Staples’ win vaults them into the national competition, April 23-24 in Washington. They hope to raise $675 to help with the registration fee and travel expenses. History-minded Westporters — or anyone else — who can help sponsor them should email aalok.bhattacharya1@gmail.com.
History Bowl champs (from left): Thomas Sargent, Aalok Bhattacharya, Oliver Clachko.
The last couple weeks of “Kids Are Talking” — the online show hosted by local therapist Dr. Don Cohen — have been interesting.
In a partnership with Turning Point CT, an organization for young people in recovery from mental health and substance use issues, Mental Health Stigma took a close look at breaking stigmas. A subsequent Mental Health in the Mirror episode addressed eating disorders.
College Application Stress was created in partnership with Fairfield CARES. The discussion included advice from high school seniors on how to handle the admissions process, and gave a heads up to juniors about what’s ahead.
Last week’s Athletes and Mental Health discussed the physical and mental stresses of performing during COVID and beyond.
Tomorrow’s show centers on the War in Ukraine, with teens who have family and friends in that troubled region. State Senator Will Haskell is the guest ono March 31.
“BIG” — the acronym stands for “Believe, Inspire, Grow” — debuts in Westport at the Saugatuck Rowing Club’s Boathouse Restaurant, at noon.
BIG is a global woman’s empowerment community offering inspiration, community, and tools to move personal and professional lives forward. Members build relationships in a dynamic, supportive entrepreneurial community.
Melissa Bernstein — co-founder of toy company Melissa & Doug, and the mental health multi-media platform LifeLines — is the featured speaker.
Another longtime, much-loved, and COVID-affected event is back — at a new but important location.
CLASP Homes’ “Taste of Westport” fundraiser is set for June 15, at the newly renovated Inn at Longshore. As always, it’s a great (and tasty) evening filled with food and drinks from your local restaurants, music, and a silent auction. Mark your calendars; details to follow.
Westport resident — and internationally acclaimed photographer — Larry Silver has the lens pointed directly at him this month.
Fairfield University Art Museum presents 13 Ways of Looking at Landscape: Larry Silver’s Connecticut Photographs. The solo exhibition includes more than 80 works, and is on view from March 25 through June 18.
The exhibition brings together over 40 years of Silver’s work, made of and in this state. It opens with a lecture by guest curator Leslie K. Brown on March 24. For more information, click here.
“Sitting at Water’s Edge, Sherwood Island State Park, Westpor, 2014/2022,” archival inkjet print. Courtesy of Larry Silver and Bruce Silverstein Gallery, New York.
Here’s a “Westport … Naturally” scene you don’t see every day: a red fox, sunning itself in Greens Farms. Elena Nasereddin captured this image on Monday.
Lynsey Addario — the 1991 Staples High School Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist — is usually behind the camera.
Now the BBC has turned its lens on her. The international describes her this way, for its profile of her:
“She took the defining picture of Putin’s war so far: a family killed by Russian troops as they tried to flee to safety. The US photojournalist Lynsey Addario has reported from almost every major conflict in the 21st century, and now she is on the ground in Ukraine, documenting suspected war crimes.
“Lynsey Addario — who reported on the Taliban before most of the western world knew who they were — has borne witness to war, humanitarian disaster and the worst effects of climate change. She has been kidnapped three times, but still keeps returning to conflict zones. Mark Coles profiles the award-winning photographer whose images continue to make the front pages.”
Click here for this in-depth look at a true Westport — and international — hero. (With a bonus: interviews with her mother Camille, and older sisters Lauren, Lisa and Leslie.)
Congratulations to the Staples boys indoor track sprint medley relay team.
They finished 6th in the US last night, at the national high school meet in the New York Armory.
Samir Mott (200 meter leg), David Sedrak (200), Bruno Guiduli (400) and Jalen St. Fort (800) roared to a 3:35.43. That earns them All-American status — and fame that will last far beyond that very fast race.
Indoor track All-Americans (from left): Samir Mott, David Sedrak, Bruno Guiduli, Jalen St. Fort. (Photo/Barry Guiduli)
In 2018, freshman Corey Hausman died in a skateboarding accident at the University of Colorado. A varsity skier and track athlete, he had graduated from Staples High School just 3 month earlier.
At its banquet last week, the Staples ski team inaugurated the Corey Hausman Award. It will be presented each year to the senior racer who best epitomizes his special spirit, through a love for skiing, the desire to improve, a willingness to work and the ability to inspire others.
Olivia Marshall was the first recipient. Corey’s family presented the award, with coaches Rebecca Anderson-Furlong and Tom Owen.
Corey’s memory continues to be honored through College911.net and the College Safety Coalition. Both projects — initiated by the Hausman family — help make the college experience as safe as possible for everyone. (Hat tip: Michelle Howard)
From left: Coach Tom Owen, Olivia Marshall, Coach Rebecca Anderson-Furlong, Corey’s parents Nanette and Joel Hausman, and Corey’s good friend Michael Valarie.
It was standing room only at Betsy Pollak’s bird feeder. This impressive “pecking order” makes for quite a “Westport … (okay, Weston) … Naturally” photo.
And finally … Bobbie Nelson — Willie’s sister, his longtime pianist and an important influence on him — died Thursday in Austin. She was 91. (Click here for a full obituary.)
Comments Off on Roundup: Lynsey Addario, Track All-Americans, Martha Stewart …
The deli just over the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge opened its 9th location Monday, on the 86th Street/2nd Avenue Q line subway station platform in New York.
Upper East Side Patch reports: “Eager customers gave the business a warm welcome, lining up to buy hot coffee, nitro cold brew, bagels and pastries from a booth that had previously been home to a standard newspapers-and-coffee kiosk.
“‘People are so excited to have something before they hop on the train,” said Kathryn Greaves, Winfield Street’s district manager.”
In the works: coffee stands at the 72nd Street and 96th Street Q line stations.
So commuters can get their first coffee of the day here on the way to the train, then a second one on their way to work.
Winfield Street was in Westport, long before New York City.
Opening day is near for the Westport Country Playhouse’s 2022 season — the 92nd, in its storied history.
The curtain rises on the 3-time Tony Award-winning musical “Next to Normal,” on April 5.
The multi-racial cast is headed by Wilson Jermaine Heredia (Tony winner for his portrayal of Angel in “Rent”) and Darlesia Cearcy, (Erzulie in the Tony-winning revival of “Once on This Island”).
One of the longest-running Westport Library language groups, they’ve just celebrated their 10-year anniversary.
They got their start — and are still supported by — Israelis in CT. The non-profit social organization provides native speakers, who offer help and guidance to people of all level who want to practice and improve their Hebrew proficiency. The group meets twice a month, all year round.
Some members have participated the entire time, including facilitators Susan Cutler and Charles Halasz; Hebrew mavens Moshe Berman and Israelis-in-CT president Relly Coleman, and Sue Collin.
Before Covid pushed everyone onto Zoom, they were joined by Young Israeli Emissaries, who helped with ever-evolving Israeli slang.
One benefit of the virtual format: reuniting with members who had moved away. They, and newcomers, now participate from across the US and Canada, South America, Europe, Africa — and of course Israel.
Newcomers — from beginners to native speakers are welcome. For information, emailisraelisinct@hotmail.com or call 203-226-8739.
A pre-COVID meeting of the Hebrew Conversation Group.
Millie Hardy’s death last week devastated her many Minute Men Cleaners customers. They adored her — and were honored to call her a friend.
Now they’re helping the woman who spent over 50 years of her life helping them.
A GoFundMe campaign is raising money for her funeral, and to honor her. Click here for details, and to donate.
Millie Hardy
===============================================
Lynsey Addario’s photo of the Ukrainian family killed by a Russian mortar attack has stunned the world, since it was published on Sunday by the New York Times.
That one photograph by the 1991 Staples High School graduate — a Pulitzer Prize winner and MacArthur fellow — has captured the horrors of the invasion like no other. It has been the focus of worldwide television reports, and been reposted on social media around the world.
But who were the people murdered, as they tried to escape the shelling? Yesterday, the Times told us. The riveting story describes the lives of a mother, her 18-year-old son, 9-year-old daughter, and the church volunteer with them.
Her husband was in another part of Ukraine, tending to his mother who has COVID.
Click here to read about the 4 people Lynsey captured for posterity — and the loved ones they left behind.
The photograph that shocked the world. (Photo/Lynsey Addario for The New York Times)
And finally … speaking of peace: Here’s a great video from Playing for Change. The multimedia project — which weaves together musicians from around the globe, playing familiar songs in incredible harmony — posted “Peace Train” last September.
It was well before Russia invaded Ukraine. But the message is even more relevant today.
Spoiler alert: There’s a great appearance near the end by Yusuf/Cat Stevens himself.
Over the past 2 years, the restaurant industry has been rocked by COVID. Amid all the bad news, one bright spot was the rise — and popularity — of outdoor dining.
This Monday (March 14, 7 p.m. Zoom), the Planning & Zoning Commission meets to consider permanent outdoor eating regulations.
Under new state legislation, the P&Z can determine the size of an outdoor dining area, when it can operate, and what public safety protections are needed.
Planning and Zoning Department director Mary Young says, “The Planning & Zoning Commission looks forward to hearing from food establishment owners to help set reasonable standards, allowing the Restaurant Renaissance in Westport to continue and provide safe and secure dining options for patrons under the ‘New-Normal’ conditions.”’
Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell predicts, “some restaurants are going to love this. Some are not going to like it at all. It depends on whether you have the land, an amenable landlord, a parking lot to use or a town road to be able to do it. The Chamber sees both sides to this.”
Monday’s public hearing will be livestreamed at www.westportct.gov, and on Optimum channel 79 and Frontier channel 6020. Comments can be sent to the meeting to PandZ@westportct.gov. Click here for the full text amendment.
Lynsey Addario’s photo last Sunday — of a family killed by a Russian mortar attack — horrified the world.
Yesterday, the New York Times photojournalist — a Pulitzer Prize winner, and 1991 Staples High School graduate — spoke compellingly about that image, and the events surrounding.
In an in-depth interview with CNN’s Anderson Cooper — at 3:30 a.m. Ukraine time — Lynsey talked spoke of her surreal feelings as she realized the Russians were targeting civilians. With mortars whizzing just 30 feet away, she witnessed the killings.
Cooper asked her thoughts as she took her photos. She felt she had to document the event for the world. With a 10-year-old of her own, she had to maintain her professionalism — even as she noticed the family’s luggage lying next to them.
She also talked about her feelings afterward, and what it’s like to witness such scenes over and over again.
It was excellent journalism from Anderson Cooper — and one more reason to pray for Lynsey’s safety, and that of everyone in Ukraine.
(Photo/Dan Woog)
Lynsey’s photo was also featured on “60 Minutes” this past Sunday. Scott Pelley used it to frame that night’s Ukraine story. Click here for the link. (Hat tips: Susan Woog Wagner and Hedi Lieberman)
A bright young man from Westport
Who really cares about transport,
Said to get to the train,
Wheels2U is a gain!
It’s like your own private escort!
Okay, it’s not Keats. It’s not even Ogden Nash. But it’s a good way to introduce the Westport Transit District’s limerick contest.
The goal is to raise awareness of Wheels2U Westport, the on-demand, group ride, door-to-train platform shuttle service.
The top 7 entries win gift certificates to Westport restaurants of their choice, ranging from $100 to $25.
Want some info before writing your poem? WTD director Peter Gold calls Wheels2U “easy, inexpensive and convenient. It comes when you call it, picks you up at your door, and takes you right to the platform at the Westport and Greens Farms stations. No more walks from the parking lots in the cold and dark. And it’s a greener way to get to the train.”
Westport residents use the Wheels2U Westport app to request a pickup between 5:45 and 10 a.m., and 4 and 9:30 p.m., almost anywhere in town. Pickups should be requested 20 minutes before you would normally leave to drive to the station. The fare is just $2, when paid with the Wheels2U app.
The contest is open to all Westport residents. Enter as often as you like. Email entries to pgold@westportct.gov no later than March 25. Put “Limerick Contest” in the subject line, and include your name, address, and email. Click here for the full rules.
The group — whose lead guitarist is 1997 Staples High School graduate (and former soccer star) Brad Tursi — was named Group of the Year at Monday’s ACM ceremony in Las Vegas.
It was the 5th consecutive year they’ve won country music’s top prize.
Their acceptance speech included a tribute to the citizens of Ukraine. (Hat tip: Tricia Freeman)
Old Dominion, at the CMA Awards. Staples grad Brad Tursi is on the far right.
Speaking of music: Every month, Billy Joel sells out Madison Square Garden. Now his music is coming to the Levitt Pavilion!
Yeah, read that sentence again. “His music” — not the Piano Man himself.
But this is no tribute band. It’s Mike Del Guidice & Big Shot. He tours all over the world with Billy Joel. His band performs astonishing renditions of those songs, plus others by Elton John, the Beatles and other beloved artists.
The concert is Friday, May 20 (7:30 p.m.). Levitt Pavilion member pre-sales start today (Wednesday, March 9, noon). Click here to become a member. Sales to the general public start Friday (March 11, 10 a.m.).
On April 7, some of Westport’s best chefs will leave their kitchens. They’ll head to Aitoro’s, the great appliance store just over the Norwalk line. There — amid high-end appliances — they’ll offer great food for a good cause.
It’s a benefit for the Make-a-Wish Connecticut chapter. The nonprofit helps fulfill the dreams of critically ill children.
Among the celebrity chefs: Bill Taibe (The Whelk, Kawa Ni, Don Memo); Matt Storch (Match Burger Lobster, Match Restaurant), Jes Bengtson (Terrain Garden Café, Amis Trattoria), Robin Selden (Marcia Selden and Naked Fig Catering), Dan Kardo (Oar & Oak), and Christian Petroni (Food Network star).
Tickets include samplings, and complimentary beer and wine. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Bill Webster sends today’s captivating “Westport … Naturally” photo, and adds:
“People often hear the tom turkey gobbling on spring mornings, but seldom do you get a chance to see a wild turkey strut. The turkey strut is an incredible courtship display that is intended to attract hens and display dominance.”
Business owners: The luck of the Irish may be with you this St. Patrick’s Day.
Business Networking International’s Westport chapter is holding a “Virtual Visitors Day” (March 17, 7:30 to 9 a.m.).
They’re looking for new members in these areas: security, HVAC, solar, photographer, caterer, bakery, florist, event planner, home inspector, moving company, travel tours, auto repair, and dry cleaner/tailor/shoe repair.
The Westport BNI Group has 48 members. Membership is structured to allow only 1 person per profession in each chapter. For example, the local group already has 1 landscaper, 1 realtor and 1 chiropractor.
Meetings are held weekly and referrals are exchanged in a structured manner.
Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids — the Westport-based children’s haircut franchise — has long given back to worthy organizations. Each child gets a token to put in a box for a charity of their choice.
All boxes are now changed to Ukraine relief. All Sharkey’s franchises can choose any 2 Ukraine-related charities that touch them the most.
The Westport location — the busiest of all 100-plus locations in the world — is at 1568 Post Road East, just east of ASF.
Congratulations to the Coleytown Middle School Math Club!
Ten students participated in the Southwestern Connecticut “Mathcounts” competitions. Vikram Sarkar, Ayush Rudra and Adan Wang finished in the Top 10 (#1, 4 and 10), and qualify for the state event as individual competitors. That’s the highest number of qualifiers for any Fairfield County school. The top 4 finishers at the state level advance to the national contest.
There was also a team competition. CMS’ Team A (Adan, Ayush, Vikram and Owen Wood) came in first in that category, by a wide margin. Bedford Middle School was third.
Other Coleytown competitors include Akil Arvind, Anit Arvind, Justin Jendrock, Sarah Lyle, Charlie McGillion-Moore and Mateo Riero.
Lynsey Addario’s dramatic images from Ukraine have enraged the world.
But the Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer — 1991 Staples High School graduate — was working on another project, before the Russian invasion.
Her photos illustrate an in-depth Atlantic story on Mohammed bin Salman, the astonishingly wealthy and equally mysterious crown prince, deputy prime minister and minister of defense of Saudi Arabia. Click here for the long, but very intriguing, story (and photos.) (Hat tip: Dave Lowrie)
Mohammed bin Salman (center), with members of the Saudi royal family. (PHoto/Lynsey Addario for The Atlantic)
Dominick “Babe” DeMace died peacefully, surrounded by family, on Saturday. He was 90 years old.
Born in 1932 to Josephine and Pasquale DeMace in Westport, and raised here, he served as an Army corporal in Trieste from 1952 to 1954.
After his discharge he met his future wife, Margaret Labbance, when she moved in across the street.
Dominick DeMace
He spent his career as a well-respected union electrician. He was a 3rd-degree member of the Knights of Columbus in Norwalk.
On Saturdays he ushered at Assumption Church’s evening mass, then visited his brother Frank’s restaurant, Mario’s. He was well known there, helping in any capacity.
Family was most important to Babe. He was generous, both in his trade and in his personal life. There was nothing he could not fix. His family says, “His Italian heritage meant he was an authority on cooking and consuming delicious meals. He worked hard to provide for his family and will be remembered for his loyalty and loving nature.”
He was predeceased by his sister Marie Wallace and brothers Michael, Joseph and Frank DeMace. He is survived by his wife of nearly 67 years, Margaret, sister Theresa (Tess) DeMattia, children David, Danielle Yingling and Dominick (Joanne), grandchildren Stephanie Fagan (Joseph), Christina Bierwirth, Natalie, Emily, Elisabeth and Eric DeMace, great-grandchildren Connor and Devin Fagan and Andrew Bierwirth, and many nieces, nephews and friends.
The family will receive relatives and friends tomorrow (Tuesday, March 8, 4 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian burial will take place at Assumption Church on Wednesday (March 9, 10 a.m.). Burial with full military honors will follow at Saint John’s Cemetery in Norwalk. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorial contributions to Saint Jude.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine took an even more horrific turn today.
Lynsey Addario — the 1991 Staples High School Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times photographer — reports with words and images that “a Russian force advancing on Kyiv fired mortar shells … at a battered bridge used by evacuees fleeing the fighting.”
The attack sent “panicked civilians running, kicking up a cloud of dust and leaving three members of a family dead on the pavement.”
Addario’s photo showed that haunting scene.
Ukrainian soldiers trying to save the father of a family of 4 — the only one at that moment who still had a pulse — moments after being hit by a mortar while trying to flee Irpin, near Kyiv, today. (Photo/Lynsey Addario for The New York Times)
Addario’s report continued:
Crowds of hundreds have clustered around the damaged bridge over the Irpin River since Saturday. Ukrainian forces had blown up the bridge earlier to slow the Russian advance. Only a dozen or so Ukrainian soldiers were in the immediate area of the bridge on Sunday, not fighting but helping carry civilians’ luggage and children.
To cross a hundred yards or so of exposed street on the side of the bridge closer to Kyiv, people seeking to flee to the capital formed small groups and made a run for it together. Soldiers ran out, picked up children or luggage, and ran for cover behind a cinder block wall.
The mortar shells fell first 100 or so yards from the bridge, then shifted in a series of thunderous blasts into a section of street where people were fleeing.
Click here for the full story. (Hat tip: Ernest Lorimer)
Lynsey Addario has been in the news a lot lately. The 1991 Staples High School graduate and Pulitzer Prize winning/MacArthur fellow photojournalist has taken harrowing photos of Ukraine, for the New York Times. Earlier this week, she gave an insightful interview to Katie Couric.
Lynsey has been doing great work for years. And in January — several weeks before Russia invaded Ukraine — the Westport Library featured a special exhibit of her photos.
“Veiled Rebellion: Women of Afghanistan” began with a 2009 assignment from National Geographic.
Cultural and societal taboos make it extremely difficult to photograph women in that conservative country. But Lynsey persevered, gaining trust and shooting remarkable, intimate images. They cover home, work, religious and recreational life.
The exhibit is on display in the entrance gallery through June 15. They’re just part of the 34 photos that Lynsey donated to the Westport Public Art Collections.
Lynsey Addario’s “Veiled Rebellion” exhibit at the Westport Library.
One more sign we’re emerging from the pandemic: The Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce and Westport Library are bringing back “Supper & Soul.”
The first dinner and concert event in 2 years is set for Saturday, May 7. Cris Jacobs — a Blues Views & BBQ favorite — presents a concert in the Library Forum, following dinners at various restaurants throughout downtown.
Participating downtown restaurants are 190 Main, Amis, Arezzo, Basso, Capuli, De Tapas, Don Memo, Manna Toast, Spotted Horse, Wafu and Walrus Alley.
One ticket buys a 3-course meal at any of 11 participating restaurants, plus the concert — and happy hour-priced drinks afterwards, at any of those restaurants.
Tickets are $90 per person; concert-only tickets are $40. For more information and tickets, click here.
Money. It’s what makes Westport (and the world) go round.
Want to be entertained, educated and empowered about it?
Check out Galia Gichon’s new podcast: “The Fiscal Firecrackers.” The 20-year finance industry veteran, with an MBA in finance — and a Westport mom — has teamed up with comedic actress Susan Yeagley (Jessica Wicks on “Parks and Recreation”) and Jill Leiderman (a producer with Jon Stewart, David Letterman and Jimmy Kimmel).
In fact, “Punk Coming” is the name of the local museum’s next exhibition. A diverse group of photographers, filmmakers and artists whose work defined the punk era in 1976 New York City, as well as contemporary works heavily influenced by the movement, kicks off with an opening reception on March 26 (6 p.m.)
The show runs through June 5. It features over 30 artists with additional programming, events and concerts throughout the spring.
=================================================
Suzanne Sheridan grew up on protest music.
On Saturday, March 12 her Westport-based Suzanne Sheridan Band performs at the Unitarian Church’s Voices Café (and via livestream), . They’re dedicating the concert to “the freedom-loving people of Ukraine.”
On the bill: favorite songs from the likes of Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen and others.
All proceeds will go to Save the Children, to provide food, water, clothing, medical supplies, emergency assistance and toys to Ukrainian refugees entering Poland, Romania and Lithuania. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Artist/author/naturalist James Prosek spent years trespassing on the Aspetuck Reservoir.
On April 6 (7 p.m., Westport Library), he turns that experience into this year’s Aspetuck Land Trust Caryl and Edna Haskins Lecture. In “Trespassing and Conservation,” Prosek will talk about how growing up near the reservoir shaped his appreciation of the natural work, his career, and his art. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Tomorrow’s rally in support of Ukraine (Saturday, March 5, 11 a.m. Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge), includes a silent auction of 3 native hand-embroidered shirts.
There’s nothing like a comedy/drama about midlife crises and aging parents.
Westport Country Playhouse’s next Script in Hand play reading tackles those subjects. “Dot” is set for Monday, March 14 (7 p.m., live) and on-demand streaming (March 17 through 20).
Script in Hand shows offer intimate storytelling. Professional actors bring words to life, without sets or costumes.
The Playhouse describes “Dot”:
In their West Philadelphia home the Shealy family, headed by proud, lovable matriarch Dot, is ready to celebrate the Christmas holiday. But the family must grapple with more than exchanging presents as Dot’s memory is beginning to slip.
While her 3 grown children reunite, each with their own personal challenges to attend to, they must also struggle with how to best care for their mom as she faces the difficulties ahead.
Longtime Westporter Elizabeth Izzo Petretta died peacefully at home on Monday. She was 85.
Born in Caserta, Italy to Luigi and Maria Izzo, she and her family moved to Westport in the 1950’s. That’s where she married her beloved husband, Rocco Petretta.
With Elizabeth’s support, Rocco’s Restaurant was established in 1975 on the Post Road. She worked there for many years.
She enjoyed cooking for her family and friends, sewing and crocheting. She especially loved spending time in her garden. She loved to take care of others, always with a smile. She was her happiest when she was with her family.
Her faith was extremely important to her. She was a lifelong parishioner and volunteer at Assumption Church.
She is survived by her husband Rocco and their daughters Emily (Vinny) Engongoro and Michelle Hankey; grandchildren Christopher Engongoro, Chloe and Olivia Hankey; siblings: Angelina (Joseph) Carusone of Verona, Italy, Josephine Bertoldo of Meriden, Antonia Prentice of Monroe, Anthony (Margie) Izzo, of Tar Heel, North Carolina, Jospeh Izzo and Ann Izzo of Westport, and her many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated this Saturday (March 5, 10 a.m. at Assumption Church. Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society. Condolences for the family may be left online.
Every day brings new, grim news from Ukraine. The New York Times photos of Staples High School graduates Lynsey Addario (1991) and Tyler Hicks (1988) are crucial for bringing the horrors of the Russian invasion to the rest of the world.
We all know on some level how dangerous it is for those two, and so many others. But now Katie Couric brings the reality of their situation into our own, comfortable lives.
She conducts an astonishing interview with Lynsey — who, in the opening moments from Kyiv, moves into the bathroom, and dons a flak jacket and helmet, as sirens go off.
Couric’s questions are probing. Lynsey’s answers are insightful. This is must-see journalism, from two pros. (Hat tip: Susan Woog Wagner)
Speaking of Ukraine: Westport’s rally in support of that invaded nation is set for this Saturday (11 a.m., Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Post Road bridge). It’s scheduled to run until 12:30 p.m.
Anyone wishing to continue their support can head a couple of miles east, to Southport.
The Ukrainian American Club (279 King’s Drive, near I-95 and the Metro-North station) is sponsoring its own Saturday rally. It starts at 1 p.m.
Attendees are asked to bring signs, musical instruments, balloons, flowers, and anything else that will help spread the message of freedom, unity and democracy. For further information, speaker, or donation inquiries, call 203-259-2913.
Speaking of Saturday’s Westport rally: one of the organizers, Stephan Taranko, donated 3 exquisite Ukrainian hand-embroidered shirts, similar to the ones worn by the Dumka Choir when they performed last week on “Saturday Night Live.”
They’ll be part of a silent auction at the Westport event. A QR code will be available to help with the bidding.
And more on Ukraine: Dori Bomback and Teri Jaffe’s ThingsILove203 — which curates, then sells (duh) things they love — is holding a pop-up sale at MoCA Westport his Sunday (March 6, noon to 4 p.m.).
They carry several Ukrainian lines. A percentage of proceeds will be donated to the Ukrainian Crisis Relief Fund.
“06880” does not cover a lot of Norwalk news. But we do mention Stew Leonard’s from time to time, because, well, Stew’s.
Looks like the Westport-born food store will have some competition
Wegmans is opening its first Connecticut location — municipal approval, and construction, pending.
The site is nearly 11 acres of land off Connecticut Avenue, near I-95. The property is occupied now by MBI, which would move to new office space.
Wegmans is a 105-year-old, 106-store supermarket chain in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, Massachusetts and North Carolina that draws raves from customers.
But will they have Santa, a menorah, and Christmas trees?
Thelma and Marge — Nigerian dwarf goats — are having babies, at the Cross Highway sustainability center.
They’re due in a month. Laura Miller, of InDorasKitchen.com, has shared them with WTF. She’ll also offer classes in goat dairy, milking and cheese making, soap making, goat anatomy and husbandry, blacksmithing, cheese and balsamic Pairings, and more..
With the babies’ arrival, Westporters can learn about goat anatomy, reproduction, animal husbandry, milking, and caring for kids (the goat kind). WTF will also offer opportunities to learn how to make goat soap and cheese.
Class offerings for adults and (human) kids will be posted online.
Thelma and Marge (or perhaps Marge and Thelma) at WTF. (Photo/Anne Burmeister)
Divorce is stressful. But in addition to lawyers, women going through the process can also support each other.
Next Wednesday (March 9, 7 p.m. Hayvn co-working space, 320 Boston Post Road, Darien), they’ll get together at an an event called “Insider Tips from Divorce Attorneys.” It’s sponsored by the law firm Ferry & Battey, and one of the panelists is Janet Battey of Westport. Click here for tickets and more information.
Westport-based Connectalent co-founders Runa Knapp and Jasmine Silver discuss the future of work, workplace re-entry, job skills needed tomorrow and more. The March 15 event (7:30 p.m., Weston Field Club), is sponsored by the Weston Women’s League.
An added attraction: photographer Whitnee Schulman will offer headshots for attendees.
And finally … on this date in 1849, the territory of Minnesota was created.
I’m not sure why the (Westport-based) Wiggins Sisters never made it nationally. They are one of my favorite duos of all time. Their harmonies are beautiful; their lyrics are insightful — and they are wonderful, genuine women.
If you’ve never heard them (and also, if you have), enjoy “Minnesota.”
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.
