In 2003, Lauren Weisberger published “The Devil Wears Prada.”
The novel — based on her time as Anna Wintour’s assistant at American Vogue — was a bestseller.
But Weisberger was savaged. The New York Times called it “a mean-spirited ‘Gotcha!’ of a book” and “vampiric, second-order cruelty.” The Wall Street Journal said it “could have been written by a window washer.”
Weisberger — 26 years old — did not expect the reaction.
She probably also did not expect it to sell 13 million copies, and lead to a high 6-figure advance for her second book.
On May 1 — 20 years after the movie became its own classic — “The Devil Wears Prada 2” will be released. The cast — including Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep — returns.
What makes all this newsworthy — besides the fact that Hathaway used to live in Westport, and Stephanie Szostak does — is that Weisberger now lives here.
The Sunday Times of London published a long story on her yesterday. It notes: “Suburban Connecticut … has been the perfect inspiration for the dramas and satires of her commercial fiction (“When Life Gives You Lululemons”; “Where the Grass Is Green and the Girls Are Pretty”).
Curtains rise soon for Westport’s 2 middle school drama troupes.
Coleytown Company brings “Newsies” to the stage March 27-29. The musical was inspired by the true story of the 1899 newsboys’ strike in New York City, when exploited young newspaper sellers formed a union and struck against powerful publisher Joseph Pulitzer for fair pay.
Excitement around Coleytown’s show kicked off with a benefit concert last month. It featured 4 stars from Broadway’s “Newsies,” including Westport native Adam Kaplan. The next day, he taught a master class to the cast.
Bedford Theatre Community presents “The Little Mermaid” March 19-22. Opening Night is “Students’ Night Out.” With no school the next day (teachers’ professional development), youngsters will celebrate their 7th and 8th grade cast and crew friends.
They serve on its board, volunteer at and donate to the Bridgeport non-profit, which impacts countless women’s lives — and those of their families — through education and support services.
On March 12 (6 p.m., Park City Music Hall, Bridgeport), everyone — those connected with MLC, and those who just heard of it — is invited to their first “Raise Her Voice” fundraiser.
Twenty students chosen through school competitions throughout Connecticut will present a monologue and sonnet. The winner advances to the national competition at Lincoln Center next month.
For Shanahan, the event is déjà vu. As a teen, he participated in a branch competition for the same program.
“I was very nervous and not very good, I fear,” he recalls.
“But it was fun. I had terrible stage fright as a teen, and got over it in college.”
Snow is melting at different rates, all over town.
Grass is already visible in some spots. At others — like Newman Poses Preserve, the site of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature photo — there’s still plenty left.
And finally … in honor of Lauren Weisberger’s novel and movies:
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Jack Stoler is a rising Staples High School senior. He plays on the state champion football team.
But his biggest score may come off the field.
He’s organized the first-ever Fairfield County Jam.
The August 30 event (7 to 10 p.m., Fairfield Theatre Company) is a fundraiser for KEYS.
The Bridgeport non-profit — whose acronym stands for Kids Empowered by Your Support — provides free music lessons and performance opportunities for under-resourced students.
The Jam will include bands from across Fairfield County — including many Staples students. A number of football players will be on hand too.
The goal is $15,000.
For tickets and more information, click here. Questions? Call Jack at 917-453-4038 ,or email jackstoler@icloud.com.
Jack Stoler (right) and jazz musicians, at the Levitt Pavilion.
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Westporters donate time and treasure to many worthy organizations.
At the top of any list is Mercy Learning Center.
The Bridgeport non-profit offers literacy and life skills training for women with low incomes.
Coming from 40 different countries, they study English, math, science, health, civics, computers, and employment and life skills.
They are supported by an early childhood education program; social services including case management, mental health counseling, health and financial screenings; job and counseling advice, and enrichment opportunities.
Mercy Learning Center clients earn high school equivalency diplomas; learn job skills, and get help finding work; receive assistance applying for college, job training programs and scholarships, and prepare for US citizenship exams.
It’s all offered at no cost, to hundreds of women every year.
Mercy’s many Westport volunteers are gearing up for their annual Empowering Women Through Education Benefit.
It’s Sunday, September 15 (5 p.m., Shorehaven Country Club, Norwalk). The event includes cocktails and light bites — plus inspiring stories of education and empowerment.
Run — don’t walk — to Fleet Feet’s 2 fall programs.
The store continues its partnership with the Westport Weston Family YMCA. Its coach-led, 8-week training will focus on the New York Marathon. However, it is also good preparation for any fall long-distance race. Click here for more information.
The Zoomerangs kids program returns September 8.
Sessions are held Sundays (3 to 4 p.m., Staples High School Laddie Lawrence Track), through October 20.
A certified youth coach will introduce youngsters to the sport of running. Click here for more information.
Positions are available for fall clinics: grades K-2 (Sunday mornings) and grades 3-8 (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings), and spring teams (grades 5-8 head and assistant), practices and clinics.
General and specialty (goalies, draw) coaches are needed. Girls/women’s lacrosse experience is required; coaching experience is ideal, but not mandatory. Eager new coaches can be trained.
Pay is “highly competitive.” For more information, contact PAL girls coaching directory Cathy Schager: cschager@westportps.org; 203-554-5691.
Westport PAL lacrosse players, at Paul Lane Stadium.
Only 10 days left to snag early-bird tickets for Westoberfest.
The Westport Downtown Association Oktoberfest-style event (in September: the 21st, 2-5 p.m., Elm Street) features over 50 tastings from innovative craft breweries like Kent Falls, Nod Hill, Obscure Oscillation and Space Cat Brewing to name a few, plus activities like keg rolling and pumpkin chucking contests for adults.
Children’s activities include root beer floats, flower crown-making, pumpkin decorating and face painting.
There’s live music too, from One Bad Oyster.
For a complete list of breweries, kids’ activities, food and vendors, click here.
The price through August 31 is $45. Tickets go up to $50 on September 1; they’re $55 at the event. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
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Jay Norris was the speaker at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club lunch.
The entrepreneur, Startup Westport organizer, and Library and YMCA board member discussed Westport 10, the networking group for Black men he co-founded.
Norris noted that diversity is necessary for innovation in any organization or community.
His definition of diversity is broader than the usual categories of race, gender and culture. To him, it means bringing together a “mosaic” of individuals with different backgrounds, skills, experiences and perspectives to produce solutions to problems in a creative, comprehensive and sustainable way.
He calls diversity more than just a moral issue. It is, Norris says, “the essential ingredient of progress.”
Jay Norris (Photo/Dave Matlow)
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“06880” readers sent plenty of photos of last night’s full moon.
Many were taken at Compo Beach. This was one of the most interesting:
The public is invited to a Japanese Fall Festival on Saturday, September 7 (1 to 4 p.m., Jesup Green).
The family-friendly festival — sponsored by the Japan Society of Fairfield County — features taiko drum performances, live plays of Japanese folktales, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional dancing.
(Another day, another Roundup chock full o’ news and information you can use. If you enjoy this daily feature, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
For several weeks, small posters with photos of Israelis kidnapped by Hamas have hung on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.
That triggered one Norwalk resident.
The woman, whose social media handle is “Best of CT Moms” — definitely not to be confused with “Moms of Westport” — posted a video story on Instagram.
Admitting it would be “an unpopular opinion,” she said: “I do not like all the kidnapped signs all over Westport. There’s nobody here who has been kidnapped that we can actually find.”
Should there be one side of the bridge with Israelis, and one side with Palestinians, she asked, “and you choose which side to walk on?”
She continued: “What was the goal? To let people know people were kidnapped? I feel like everyone knows.”
Or perhaps to let people know that antisemitism exists? “We know as Jews people are antisemitic,” she said. “I don’t need to be reminded. It’s not positive.”
She said that protecting her own mental health was important, so she stays away from the news. But, she concluded, “I don’t need news. I can drive through Westport and see all the kidnapped people.
“It’s too much. It’s too much. It’s too much.” (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)
In just 24 hours, Westport passed the halfway mark in its drive to provide heat to 2,000 residents in our Ukraine sister city this winter.
“06880” announced yesterday a $60,000 goal for Lyman. That would cover 2 wood pellet machines. Each heats 1,000 homes — a dire need, in the 2nd winter after Russia’s invasion.
An anonymous donor kick-started the campaign, with a $30,000 donation. Within an hour, another anonymous Westporter contributed $10,000.
Combined with $6,300 more from individual residents, we’re less than $15,000 away from funding both wood pellet heating machines.
Come on, Westport. We can finish this today — and have the machines delivered, up and running by Christmas. Ukrainine Aid International — the non-profit created by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer — will handle all details.
To donate by credit card, click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo. Thank you!
Westport’s annual Hanukkah menorah lighting is set for Monday (December 11), at 5 p.m. in front of Anthropologie, where the Post Road meets Church Lane and Main Street.
The public is invited.
The downtown menorah, in 2020. (Photo/Arlene Yolles)
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Interested in learning how to make your home more energy efficient? Want to help Westport reach our goal of becoming Net Zero by 2050?
Sustainable Westport offers a “Going Geothermal” session. It provides information, resources — and confidence — to kick off an energy-saving home improvement project.
A panel of energy professionals — and Westporters who have actually been through the process — will lead a conversation, and answer questions. The event is next Tuesday (December 12, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library). Click here to register, and for more information.
It’s all 12s for the Artists Collective of Westport.
Their 12″x12″ small works holiday show kicks off in the Westport Country Playhouse Sheffer Barn next Tuesday: 12/12. The reception (not 12 noon, but rather 6 to 8 p.m.) includes food, music and wine. “Affordable artwork” will be available, in a variety of mediums.
The show continues December 13 to 17, from 2 to 6 p.m.
Yesterday, Mercy’s new president and CEO Lindsay Wyman told members the many ways in which the Bridgeport non-profit educates women, in turn helping families overcome poverty.
Mercy’s holistic support services include adult education, English instruction — plus full infant and toddler care, and an early childhood education program.
Since opening in 1987, over 16,500 women have been helped. Many earn GEDs and citizenship. Volunteer tutors and childcare givers are always needed, Wyman said.
Mercy Learning Center CEO Lindsay Wyman. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
The mega-popular knighted singer — who has sold over 300 million records worldwide — recently posted an Instagram of his reactions to a couple of other versions of his double platinum 1973 hit “Step Into Christmas.”
Among the songs he liked: the one by 2007 Staples High School graduate Angus.
Check it out below. Drew appears twice: first in a circular frame, wearing crazy glasses; then performing, in a red flannel shirt.
Speaking of entertainment: In a few minutes (10 a.m.), Westporter Rex Fowler — half of Aztec Two-Step 2.0 — will be live on Rob Silber’s “Rock Therapy” show on WPKN-FM.
Rex will discuss his new memoir, and play a few songs mentioned in it. Click here, then click on the “Listen” link — or tune in to 89.5.
Following up on yesterday’s announcement about makeup, skincare, health and wellness products and hair products at a special holiday gift event at Salon Nash this Saturday (December 9, 2:30 to 6 p.m., 179 Post Road West), which is a fundraiser for the Friends of the Senior Center:
Owner Felicia Nash will also give a free blowout for contributions to Ukraine Aid International’s sister city fund (click here; then click the “I want to support” box; select “Westport — Lyman Sister City”).
Robert Bernstein — a noted educator, and Westport resident for 55 years — died yesterday morning, surrounded by his family. He was 94. He leaves a legacy of love and laughter.
Born in the Bronx, the third of 3 boys, he earned BA and MA degrees from Brooklyn College. He served in Korea as Sergeant First Class with the 101st Airborne Infantry Division, then joined the pre-doctoral program at Teachers’ College, Columbia University.
Bob’s soulmate and life partner was Barbara (Bobbie) Grishman (Bobbie). They raised 3 children: Lydia, Doug and Brian.
Bob began his teaching career in elementary schools in New York City and Westchester County. After an administrative internship, he accepted a principalship in Wilmington, Delaware.
In 1968, Bob found a perfect fit as principal of Redding Elementary School. The family moved to Westport.
Bob was the beloved principal of Redding Elementary for 25 years, dedicating himself to facilitating the growth of children and teachers and profoundly impacting the community. After retirement, he held 4 interim principalships.
Bob also taught adult education in New York City and Westchester County, and ESL with Norwalk Community College and Literacy Volunteers in Danbury. He was a member of the board and served as president of the Elementary/Middle School Principal Association of Connecticut.
Bob was a longtime member of the Y’s Men of Westport Weston and Temple Israel. He loved opera and the symphony, enjoyed playing tennis and ping pong, and watching his grandchildren play sports. Spending time at Compo Beach remained his favorite activity.
His family says, “Bob was the consummate gentleman, treating every person with kindness, respect, and dignity. We will carry forward his most enduring and endearing quality; a belief in every person’s goodness and their capacity to grow.”
Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Bobbie, their children Lydia, Doug (and Melissa) and Brian (and Lauren), his grandchildren Miriam, Brendan, Ilana, Jessica (Graham), Audrey, Cayla, Sydelle, Esther and Nate; brother-in-law Hank Grishman (Jill), and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his grandson Jason.
Bob’s service will be held at Temple Israel tomorrow (Thursday, December 7, 1 p.m.). Burial will follow at Temple Israel Cemetery in Norwalk.
Shiva will be held at the home of Bob and Bobbie’s home on December 7 immediately following the burial, and Friday, December 8(1 to 4 p.m.) and Saturday, December 9 (7 to 9 p.m.; service at 7:30).
Bob’s favorite educational and cultural arts charities were: A Better Chance of Westport (PO Box 2153, Westport, CT 06881) and Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County (391 East Washington Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06608).
The annual Halloween window painting contest returns Saturday, October 28.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce is looking for painters for the popular event. It’s open to elementary and middle school children, with 6 winners in 3 different categories earning gift certificates to Saugatuck Sweets.
Last year, 105 kids painted 65 windows throughout town, individually or in teams. Click here to sign up, and for more information.
But that’s not all.
That night (October 28, 8 p.m., Westport Library), the Chamber presents a Halloween Concert and Costume Ball.
Costumes are encouraged. Prizes will awarded for best outfits, in several categories. Specialty cocktails, beer and wine complement music by Bella’s Bartok, a funk/pop/folk band.
Tickets are $35. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Like a fine wine, Westport Sunrise Rotary’s “Uncorked” fundraiser gets better with age.
This year’s event (october 12, 6 to 9 p.m., The Inn at Longshore) will once again feature extraordinary vintages from the Fine Wine Company of Westport. Cory D’Addario will carefully choose 100 wines for tasting.
She is committed to sustainable, organic or bio-dynamic practices, and looks for integrity from the vineyard and supplier to the store. Passed hors d’oeuvres, creative charcuterie and carving stations will be paired with the wines.
Funds raised benefit the many charities supported by Sunrise Rotary. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Festive crowds, great food and excellent wines, at the Westport Sunrise Rotary’s Uncorked event.
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Less than one month remains to get $10,000.
Applications for the Westport Woman’s Club Ruegg Grants close October 20.
The grants, established in 1995 by former member Lea Ruegg, are awarded to non-profit projects that enhance social services, health, safety, the arts or education.
Recent Ruegg Grant beneficiaries include the Westport Astronomical Society, Project Return, Earthplace and Wakeman Town Farm. Proposals should be high-profile initiatives that make a meaningful difference in Westport. Click here for the application form.
Stay dry and warm — and learn about dozens of opportunities — at the volunteer fair in the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum.
Co-hosted by the town and League of Women Voters (Saturday, September 23, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), it’s a chance to check out over 2 dozen community organizations. Each will have a staff member to provide information and answer questions.
Participating groups include: A Better Chance of Westport; AWARE; Center for Senior Activities; Club 203; Earthplace; FCJazz; Food Rescue; Friends of Sherwood Island; Guiding Eyes for the Blind; Levitt Pavilion; Staples Tuition Grants; Sunrise Rotary Club; TEAM Westport; Town of Westport; Verso Studios; Veterans of Foreign Wars; Wakeman Town Farm; Westport Book Shop; Westport Community Theatre; Westport Country Playhouse; Westport Emergency Medical Services; Westport League of Women Voters; Westport Library; Westport Permanent Art Collections; Westport Sunrise Rotary; Westport Woman’s Club; Westport Young Woman’s League; Westport-Weston CERT; Westport Weston Family YMCA.
Every year AWARE partners with a different organization, getting to know their work and helping wherever they can. Last year’s partner was Her Time, which serves women affected by incarceration. AWARE is one of many groups at tomorrow’s volunteer fair.
After surviving a plane crash that killed his mother and siblings years earlier, he was critically injured in — and the sole survivor of — a second crash that claimed the lives of his father and stepmother.
His road to recovery — capped by playing basketball for his mother’s alma mater, the University of Michigan — is both astonishing and inspiring.
He’ll tell it next Friday (September 29, 7:30 p.m.) at the Westport Country Playhouse.
Saugatuck Financial is sponsoring the event. They’ve made a few seats available, to friends of “06880.” Click here for tickets, and more information.
When was the last time you went to a real trunk show?
On October 1, you can. On October 1, over 35 Artists Collective of Westport members will (Westport Library lower parking lot, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), will literally open the trunks of their cars to offer works for viewing and sales.
Okay, some may have vans, but still …
Prices range from $25 to $1,500; most are under $100. They’re bargains — and you can meet the artists too.
Participating artists include Elisa Keogh, Deborah Bohren, Beatrice delPerugia, Nina Bentley, Marc Zaref, Louise Cadoux, Dionne Pia, Holly Hawthorn, Rosalind Shaffer, Maryann Neilson, Julie Leff, Lisa Silberman, Dolores Santiliquido, Fruma Markowitz, George Radwan, Ronnie Gold, Jean Krasno, Jocelyn Baran, Cecilia Moy, Susan Fehlinger, Dorothy Robertshaw, Cindy Wagner, Robin Babbin, Michael Brennecke, Susan Murray, Debbie Smith, Rebecca Fuchs, Elizabeth DeVoll, Janine Brown, Leonor Dao Turut, Hernan Garcia, Carla Goldberg, Barbara Ringer, Jane Fleischne and Maj Kalfus.
Jazz/pop singer Melissa Newman is an added attraction.
Many Westporters volunteer at Mercy Learning Center.
They help provide literacy and life skills training to women in need. They’ll be at the non-profit’s annual fundraiser October 1 (Shorehaven Golf Club, Norwalk, 5 to 8 p.m.), and encourage many others to join them.
The evening of cocktails, tastings and a live auction is a chance to learn more about this wonderful organization. New president and CEO Lindsay Wyman will be introduced too. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Westport resident Mitchell Green pleaded guilty this week to wire fraud charges in Newark.
He stole more than $2 million by selling Champagne and cognac at artificially inflated wholesale prices. He also got kickbacks on the transaction, which led to litigation by a company owned by 50 Cent.
“Though he was supposed to negotiate the best deal possible for his employer, Green set up secret side deals to inflate what his employer paid so that he could reap millions of dollars in kickbacks,” said Philip Sellinger, US attorney for the District of New Jersey. “Companies must be able to rely on the integrity of their agents to conduct business.”
Green faces up to 20 years in prison, plus a large fine. He will be sentenced in January. (Hat tip: Allan Siegert)
The property contains a 51-foot tall octagonal light house built in 1874, and a 2-story, 1,568- square foot keepers’ quarters. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The bidder is remaining anonymous for now. Still ahead is final approval by the General Services Administration, then negotiations with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection on the long-term lease.
The bidders will then form a steering committee of local stakeholders, to figure out how best to embrace this offshore treasure. They hope to open it to the broader community for education, events and more.
“06880” will follow this lighthouse story to the end. It’s a beacon of hope for all.
Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club guest speaker was Rotary International’s Celeste Herbert. She noted that the group’s contributions to the Rotary Foundation help it impact communities around the world, in areas like education and literacy; economic development; maternal and child health; peace building and conflict prevention; water, sanitation and hygiene; the environment, and disease prevention and treatment.
Herbert praised Westport Rotary for their “audacity” in addressing important issues, and believing they can make a difference.
And finally … happy birthday to Andrea Bocelli. The Italian tenor was born on this day 65 years ago.
(This story is filled with news you can use. So is every Roundup. Supporting “06880” means you appreciate our local focus. Please click here to help. Thank you!)
At 9:48 p.m. last night, police began receiving calls reporting shots fired in the area of Saugatuck Avenue and Franklin Street.
Patrol units immediately responded. Witnesses reported a white vehicle traveling north on Franklin, north on Saugatuck, and turning west on Sunrise Road. Multiple shots were fired as it turned up Sunrise.
Officers established a perimeter, and Sunrise Road was closed to through traffic between Indian Hill Road and Saugatuck Avenue.
Westport Police ask anyone who lives in the area to review surveillance cameras and report suspicious activity that they may have captured to the Westport Detective Bureau (203-341-6080) or Detective John Lauria (dlauria@westportct.gov).
Spotted yesterday outside 233 Hillspoint Road — the notorious, controversial half-finished home construction eyesore on the site of the former Positano restaurant: a truck carrying explosives and other materials for blasting bedrock.
Alas. It turns out they are doing work elsewhere in the area.
Hey, a boy can dream …
233 Hillspoint Road. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
In other 233 Hillspoint news, Westport Journal reports that the Blight Prevention Board is fining the owners $100 a day. They have not complied with orders to place windows where they were approved, and cover the blue wrap with siding.
The Blight Board meets again tomorrow (Thursday, July 13, 7 p.m.) to discuss the half-finished home. Click here for the Zoom link.
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Railroad parking fees may soon go up.
The Representative Town Meeting Transit Committee meets July 20 to consider asking the full RTM approve an increase for both daily parking (from $5 a day to $7), a yearly permit for 1 car (from $325 to $415), and a yearly permit for 2 cars (fro m$450 to $515).
Those are slightly higher than the fees passed by the Board of Selectwomen in April.
The increased fees — predicted to raise approximately $83,100 a year — would be used to improve and increase transit services in Westport.
Daily and yearly railroad parking fees will rise, if the RTM approves its Transit Committee’s proposals. Lots have not been this full since the pandemic began.
Speaking of transit: Last night, the RTM appointed Karina Betfarhad as a second director of the Westport Transit District.
A 14-year Westport resident, she has a degree in civil engineering from San Jose State University. She also completed all core engineering classes there for a master’s in civil engineering, specializing in transportation and structural engineering. and a background in construction management.
She worked as a civil engineer for 3 construction companies, and for San Jose’s Streets and Traffic Department.
But yesterday, the Westport Rotary Club heard from Team Woofgang & Co.
Aimee Turner — executive director of the Fairfield-based non-profit — described how they make and sell dog treats, to fund vocational and social opportunities for young people with disabilities.
Team members are involved in manufacturing and retail, depending on their abilities.
Team Woofgang has a store at 1300 Post Road, Fairfield. Treats are also available online.
Team Woofgang was a Westport Rotary Club grant recipient of funds from last year’s LobsterFest.
The road to the state championship ended one run short — and 3 innings extra — yesterday for the Staples High School baseball team.
The Wreckers’ Hiro Wyatt and Fairfield Warde’s Griffin Polley dueled brilliantly — and scorelessly — for much of the game. In the end — the 10th inning — Polley drove home the Mustangs’ winning run, in a 2-1 contest at Palmer Field in Middletown that was even closer than the score. It was the 2nd straight state title for the Fairfielders.
Congratulations to the Wreckers, and coach Jack McFarland, on their great run to the ultimate game of the season.
Hiro Wyatt — the Connecticut Gatorade Player of the Year — had a heroic season on the mound for Staples. (Photo courtesy of Staples Baseball)
Congratulations too to Staples’ number 1 doubles team. Karenna Birns and Audrey Kercher won the State invitational championship Friday, at the Milford Indoor Tennis Club.
The #3-ranked pair defeated Fairfield Ludlowe’s top seed 6-4, 6-3. They also won the semifinals in straight sets, over #3 Amity-Woodbridge.
Karenna heads to Georgetown University in the fall, and Audrey to the University of Florida. Congratulations to both — and to coach Jena Wider.
Speaking still of Staples: Westport photographer Tom Kretsch just returned from a tour/workshop in Washington state.
Walking around Pullman, he spotted pictures in many stores of the high school graduates, in windows and on signs.
He wonders if it’s something we could replicate in Westport.
Sounds like something to investigate. And it sure would be less intrusive than the epidemic of signs that sprawls all along the entrances to Staples, for every team and activity imaginable, which no one can even read.
And speaking again of baseball: The Westport Winners Challenger team, for players with disabilities, ended their 10th season yesterday with a special event.
A big party included player announcements and personalized trophies, plus free ice cream gift cards from The Porch at Christie’s.
Scenes from yesterday’s Westport Winners party. Coach Mike Connors (top left) has been with the program since it began in 2013.
The Little League Challenger division is one of the best sports programs in Westport. Congratulations to all who participate — and all who make it happen!
The Challenger crew. (Photo and hat tip/Beth Cody)
The public is invited to the magnificent Greens Farms property (Sunday, June 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; GPS either 13 or 25 Prospect Road).
Besides 9 acres of beauty and joy, Prospect Gardens offers something else.
Last year, the Greens Farms Garden Club has assumed responsibility for the 3-tiered vegetable garden, for their Growing For Good program.
Owners John and Melissa Ceriale turned over the space for their effort. All produce is donated to the Mercy Center in Bridgeport, at time serving as the only source of fresh produce for some of families.
Last year, the Greens Farms Garden Club donated over 1,600 pounds of vegetables. It’s a win-win-win: for the Ceriales, the Club, and Mercy Learning Center.
She does not serve — directly, anyway — Westport residents.
But when she steps down next month as president and CEO of Mercy Learning Center, Ferreira’s impact on our town will have been profound.
Jane Ferreira, at Mercy Learning Center.
In her 21 years of service to MLC, she transformed the lives of tens of thousands of people. The Bridgeport non-profit offers literacy and life skills training for women with low incomes
Coming from 40 different countries, they study English, math, science, health, civics, computers, and employment and life skills.
They are supported by an early childhood education program; social services including case management, mental health counseling, health and financial screenings; job and counseling advice, and enrichment opportunities.
Mercy Learning Center clients earn high school equivalency diplomas; learn job skills, and get help finding work; receive assistance applying for college, job training programs and scholarships, and prepare for US citizenship exams.
The Bridgeport building buzzes with activity. The women who study, learn and are supported there are hard-working, committed, and driven to succeed.
In a county filled with organizations doing great work, MLC stands at the top of any list.
But Ferreira’s impact extends far beyond the countless people she has helped.
Jane Ferreira
Mercy Learning Center’s success is due in part to a large corps of volunteers. Men and women teach classes, offer expertise, act as role models, provide friendships, and donate generously too.
Ferreira’s work has affected them too. They have gotten a close look, and gained important insights, about a world just a few minutes away from Westport. Their horizons have been broadened, and their own lives enriched, through the center that Ferreira has dedicated more than 2 decades of her life to.
In an email announcing her retirement, she wrote:
It has been an honor and privilege to serve the women and children of Mercy Learning Center. I treasure the relationships that I have made with so many beautiful, gifted, and unique women and their families.
It has been a tremendous experience working with so many generous donors and dedicated volunteers over the years. Your dedication and support have been incredible and most appreciated. You have made MLC a remarkable place.
I leave with great confidence knowing that Mercy Learning Center is structurally sound, programmatically and financially, to move forward with a new leader. Please know that I will carry the mission of Mercy Learning Center forever in my heart, to “Educate a woman… Educate a family!” I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this critical mission and to have worked with you.
Thank you, Jane Ferreira, for your service to Mercy Learning Center. You have made Bridgeport — and Westport — better places, by far.
(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Send nominations to 06880blog@gmail.com.)
You could call him Dr. Gerald Kuroghlian. But — to thousands of admiring Staples High School students and their parents during his 43-year teaching career, then after retirement countless women at Mercy Learning Center and 12th graders at Kolbe Cathedral — he was simply “Dr. K.”
One of the most revered educators, wide-ranging intellects, giving human beings — and a friend to all who met him — Dr. K. died peacefully last night.
He had battled pancreatic cancer for years. He spent 4 years undergoing chemotherapy, outlived every other member of his drug trial, and left this world on his own terms. He recently stopped treatment, and spent his final days hearing tributes from men and women he’d touched during his 40 years at Staples, and then more than a decade after retirement.
Calling hours are tomorrow (Friday, November 19, 4 to 8 p.m., Lesko & Polke Funeral Home, 1209 Post Road, Fairfield). A memorial service is set for Saturday (2 p.m., First Church Congregational, 148 Beach Road, Fairfield.)
Click here for Dr. K’s remarkable obituary, and to sign the online register. Continue reading below for more about his life and impact.
Dr. Gerry Kuroghlian
Dr. K arrived at Staples during the tumultuous 1960s. He helped spearhead many of the curriculum changes in a brilliant, feisty English department. But he never lost his high standards. He challenged students to write well and clearly. He helped them figure out the world through courses on Shakespeare and “Myth and Bible.”
More than that, he attended their concerts, plays and athletic contests. He asked about their robotics teams and skateboarding hobbies. He knew every student — and their families — intimately, and cared for them all as if they were his closest relatives.
He did the same for his teaching colleagues. As a longtime Westport Education Association leader, he fought tirelessly for better salaries, benefits, and teaching conditions. He was a thorn in the side of many principals and superintendents. They may have resented his ferocity, but they never doubted his passion.
Dr. Gerald Kuroghlian was a proud supporter of the arts. Here he is with former Staples choral director Alice Lipson.
That passion continued after his retirement. Dr. K. was one of “06880”‘s earliest Unsung Heroes. See below for a tribute from 2017.
I have hundreds of Dr. K. stories. Here’s one;
A couple of weeks ago — when I heard he’d stopped chemo treatment — I called. Ellen — Jerry’s beloved wife — answered.
“Can he call back?” she asked. “We’re taking an online course about the Holocaust, and this lecture is fascinating.”
Dr. Kuroghlian will live on in the hearts and minds of 5 decades’ worth of students, of all ages.
And — befitting his legacy — his name will live on too. Friends have organized the Dr. K Humanitarian Award through Staples Tuition Grants (click here) and Mercy Learning Center (click here).
Though ill, “Dr. K” enjoyed breakfast a few weeks ago with friends. (Photo/Dave Ruden)
In September of 2017, “06880” honored Dr. Gerry Kuroghlian as one of our first Unsung Heroes. Here’s that story:
As a new school year begins, it’s appropriate that this week’s Unsung Hero is a former teacher.
Generations of Staples High School students revered Gerry Kuroghlian. For nearly 40 years, “Dr. K” — his doctorate was from the University of Illinois, with an undergrad degree from the University of Virginia — taught Westport teenagers how to write, how to think, and how to act.
Gerry Kuroghlian, in the 1973 Staples High School yearbook.
Kuroghlian was totally invested in the life of Staples. If there was a play, concert or athletic event, he was there. His challenging classes like “Myth and Bible” were as demanding as college-level courses.
But he never forgot that he was working with still-unformed boys and girls. His greatest delight came from helping mold them into active, concerned citizens of the world.
He never missed an Eagle Scout ceremony, celebratory dinner or parent’s funeral either.
When Kuroghlian retired in 2008, some people wondered how he’d fill his days.
He taught ESL at the heralded Bridgeport women’s literacy and life-skills center. His new students — women from Mexico, Bangladesh and all points in between — loved him.
He returned the admiration.
“These are heroic people,” Kuroghlian says admiringly. “They’re moms, housekeepers, breadwinners — they do it all. They’ve got multi-tasking down to a science.
Kuroghlian calls these women “the best students I’ve ever had. They get up, get their kids ready for school, catch a city bus, and arrive promptly by 9 a.m.
“No one is ever late. No one ever has not done the homework,” he says admiringly. “They’re motivated to learn, and they’re completely unafraid to ask questions if they don’t understand something. They’re amazing.”
After class, the women work on computers. They also go on field trips. When Kuroghlian took them to a library, they learned how to get library cards for their kids.
Kuroghlian is equally involved at Kolbe Cathedral High School. He spends most afternoons at the Bridgeport private school, as a tutor, SAT and ACT advisor, and college application essay guide. Thanks in part to his help, virtually every graduate for nearly a decade has gone on to college.
Gerry Kuroghlian works with a Kolbe Cathedral senior on his college essay.
At Kolbe, Kuroghlian organizes cultural field trips to Fairfield University and New York City. Just as he did at Staples, he attends sports events, chaperones the prom, and continually shares his philosophy that it is the responsibility of each individual to make a difference.
He also arranged for over 1,000 books to be donated to the library.
In his spare time (!), Kuroghlian works with national education organizations, cancer and diabetes groups, the Westport Library and United Church of Christ.
Nearly 10 years after “retiring,” Dr. K. shows no signs of slowing down.
Why should he? He’s continuing the work he loves: Showing teenagers how to make their mark on the world, by doing it himself.
Posted onSeptember 25, 2021|Comments Off on Greens Farms Garden Club Grows For Good
“Garden Club” sounds so genteel. Members sit discussing flowers, creating beautiful arrangements, drinking tea and munching little sandwiches.
Dude! It’s 2021. Today’s garden club is not your great-grandmother’s.
Take the Greens Farms Garden Club. It’s been around since 1930 (read its history here). Now — 9 years before its 100th anniversary — members have taken their community service mission to a new level.
They’ve joined the fight against food insecurity.
Last February — amid the pandemic, and so much other misery — conservation chair Mary Lou McGuire had an idea. The Greens Farms Garden Club could grown and donate the bounty of their efforts to people in need.
Members quickly embraced the “Growing for Good” idea. Chairs Maybette Waldron, Gael Ficken and Jacque O’Brien worked with McGuire to develop a cost-efficient plan.
They found garden space at Wakeman Town Farm, and St. Timothy’s Church in Fairfield. Head farmers were selected. More than 20 members offered to help, all summer long.
Members researched best practices for growing vegetables organically. Schedules were formed, journals kept. It was decided to plant a small number of crops, to bring larger quantities of fresh produce to the 2 recipients selected: Mercy Learning Center and St. John’s Family Center. Both are in Bridgeport.
There were questions along the way: Why didn’t the cabbage grow successfully? Why did the cherry tomatoes turn out better than the larger ones? When to replant for a late summer/fall crop?
Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, and Ganim’s Garden Center in Fairfield, provided help and assistance.
Greens Farms Garden Club members at work in April.
After farming all summer, the harvesters went to work. Recipients are thrilled with their gifts.
“This has been a wonderful initiative, which we’ll continue,” says O’Brien.
“There are many benefits to each member, and to the Greens Farms Garden Club. Working together created great team spirit, and a wonderful sense of accomplishment.
“Learning about growing vegetables expanded our horticultural knowledge, and provided us with greater incentive to grow vegetables at home. There is nothing like the taste of an absolutely fresh vegetable.”
Jane MacDonald and Judy Reynolds package produce in bags donated by Stop & Shop, for delivery to Mercy Learning and St. John’s Family Centers.
Comments Off on Greens Farms Garden Club Grows For Good
Two town-owned buildings with important tenants are getting upgrades.
Tomorrow (Thursday, June 10, 5 p.m., livestream) the Public Site and Building Commission considers renovations to the Longshore restaurant, and Homes with Hope.
Greenwich Hospitality Group — owner of the Delamar Hotels, and the new operator of the Inn at Longshore — will be making improvements to the restaurant, which is currently closed. The Inn remains open.
The town has received a $500,000 grant for work on the Gillespie Center. The shelter behind Barnes & Noble will undergo ADA improvements, and air quality systems will be upgraded.
The PS&BC meeting is available on Zoom (868 1556 4709; passcode: 266287).
There’s nothing funny about the Westport Country Playhouse’s productions being pushed back from this summer to next.
But there will plenty to laugh about onstage soon. From June 18-25, there’s live, stand-up comedy, on the fabled stage.
In partnership with Fairfield Comedy Club’s 3rd annual festival, comedians Mike Birbiglia, Boomer Funny Ladies, Harrison Greenbaum, Jessica Kirson, Dan Soder and others will bring smiles (and belly laughs) to real, live faces. (“Content is appropriate for age 18 and up,” the WCP says.)
Audience members must be fully vaccinated, or receive a negative COVID test with 72 hours of the performance. Concession stands are open. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Westport’s National Charity League chapter has donated $3,750 to 3 Bridgeport charities serving people hit hard by the pandemic. Grants include $1,250 each to Homes for the Brave, Mercy Learning Center and Caroline House.
While NCL normally only donates time and talent, they made an exception in these critical times.
And finally … in 1968, President Johnson declared this a national day of mourning. Presidential candidate Bobby Kennedy died 3 days earlier, from an assassin’s bullet. Two months earlier, Martin Luther King was similarly slain.
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Members quickly embraced the “Growing for Good” idea. Chairs Maybette Waldron, Gael Ficken and Jacque O’Brien worked with McGuire to develop a cost-efficient plan.
