Tag Archives: Michael Friedman

Roundup: “Screenagers,” Kawa Ni, Beer Garden …

Posted on September 11, 2024 | 2 comments

As our town (and the rest of the nation) debates the impact of smartphones on kids, the Westport Public Schools take a lead role.

In partnership with Westport Together, the district is hosting Dr. Delaney Ruston. A Fulbright Scholar, physician and filmmaker, she created the 2016 documentary “Screenagers.“

The event — “Parenting Screenagers:  Tips for Success” — is set for Monday, September 23 (7 p.m., Bedford Middle School auditorium). Ruston will share tools that help parents manage screen time issues.

Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice says, “the community is well aware of my convictions about the negative impact that smartphones and social media have had on our children, from elementary through high school.

“I strongly encourage you to make every effort to attend. I will be there, alongside our families and school community.”

Click here to register. 

Dr. Delaney Ruston

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Huge congratulations to Bill Taibe and Massimo Tullio. Their Kawa Ni restaurant has just earned a Michelin star.

Well, not the Bridge Square restaurant. This one goes to Kawa Ni Denver, the Rocky Mountain outpost of his Japanese and pan-Asian restaurant.

But the Colorado Kawa Ni is — as local diners who have been there know — very similar to the original one here.

Félicitations, Bill and Massimo. And おめでとう! (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)

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Speaking of food and drink: It’s called a Beer Garden, but Wakeman Town Farm’s Sunday, October 13 event (noon to 4 p.m.) is fun for the whole family.

The day includes live music by Hitch and the Giddy-Up + Rob Morton, lawn games, bubbles, animal encounters, and pumpkin crafts.

Among the lunch options: Pizza by Tony Pizza Napolitano, treats from Food Truck Refinery, and ice cream from Saugatuck Sweets and LANDTECH!

Adults enjoy local beers from Greens Farms Spirits, and spirits by 5th State Distillery.

Tickets are $10 for adults; kids go free. Food, beverage and craft purchases are a la carte. Proceeds benefit Wakeman Town Farm educational programs. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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As everyone some people only astronomers know, this Saturday is International Observe the Moon Night.

The annual worldwide event encourages observation and appreciation of (duh) the Moon.

Thanks to the Westport Astronomical Society, you can do it in their great observatory (182 Bayberry Lane, 8 p.m.).

If skies are clear, they’ll open the dome and use their telescopes to look at features on the waxing gibbous moon.

The WAS says: “The giant satellite has been Earth’s constant companion for an estimated 4.5 billion years, and viewed by every human that’s ever walked the Earth.

“It’s one of the solar system’s most remarkable objects, and quite likely a major reason that life even exists on our planet. The moon is an incredible body that has fascinated and puzzled our ancestors from the very first time we looked up.

“Don’t know your Mare from a Mons? Can’t tell a Sinus from a Vallis? A Crater from an Oceanus? Saturday is the night to find out. We’ll point out the Apollo landing sites as well as craters, the ‘oceans’ of the Moon, and features like the Straight Wall. See you for some lunacy at 8 p.m.”

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Westport chefs are on the menu at Harvesting Hope.

The benefit for Bridgeport Rescue Mission (September 19, 6 p.m., Aitoro Appliances, 401 Westport Avenue, Norwalk) — a night of delicious food tasting and philanthropy.

Among the 8 celebrity chefs cooking for guests: Bill Taibe (owner of Don Memo, The Whelk and Kawa Ni), and Matt Storch of Match Burger Lobster.

Extra course: A special presentation by Michel Nischan. The leader in sustainable food practices and 4-time James Beard Award winner is also a founder of the Westport Farmers Market.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Staples High School Class of 1961 graduate Michael Friedman brought his rock ‘n’ roll photos from 1969 to ’73 — of the Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin, The Band and so many others — to yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting.

Friedman — a producer and manager in the music business from the ’60s through the ’80s — described the long, strange trip his negatives took, from the heyday of rock to their discovery by his wife in 2017.

They’ve now been published in a book called “Exposed: The Lost Negatives and Untold Stories of Michael Friedman.”

Friedman told the Rotarians about many of the performers he represented, including the Stones, Joplin, Band, Tina Turner, Rita Coolidge and his “hero and inspiration,” Kris Kristofferson.

Michael Friedman, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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Weston resident Hilary Gibson died Saturday, in Weston. She was 66.

After graduating from WC Mepham High School on Long Island in 1975, she earned a BA from Tufts University in 1979, and an MBA from Columbia Business School in 1982.

Hilary worked in financial services as a chief of staff at Marine Midland, Lehman Brothers, CS First Boston and Credit Suisse Private Banking until 1998, when she retired.

She and her husband moved to Atlanta, and focused attention on their son Ted.

Hilary was an avid long distance bike rider, hiker and sailor. She trekked in the Himalayas, sailed in the Caribbean, and skiing in the East and West.

After living in the Netherlands while her husband was with ING, Hilary and the family returned to Westport in 2004. Among other activities, she was head of education at the Westport Historical Society.

Hilary is survived by her husband Weston; son of New York City; cousins RuthAnn Stafford of Boseman, Montana, and Toby Meshberg, of Fairfield, and brother, Zachary Wechsler of Torrance, California.

Funeral services will be held tomorrow (Thursday, September 12, 1 p.m., Temple Shalom, Norwalk. Burial will follow at Willowbrook Cemetery in Westport.

Shiva will be observed at the home of William Gibson in Weston tomorrow after the internment, until 8 p.m. For more information, to join a livestream, or to share a condolence message, click here.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Hilary’s memory.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Dr. James Harding, and the entire staff at MSK-Westchester.

Hilary Gibson

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Patti Brill calls today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — taken near her Saugatuck Shores home — “Breakfast.”

We call it an image that looks almost like a painting.

Bon appétit! 

(Photo/Patti Brill)

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And finally … in honor of both International Observe the Moon Night, and Harvesting Hope (stories above):

(You rely on “06880” to tell you what’s going on in Westport. We rely on our readers’ support to keep doing it. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Obituaries, Restaurants, Teenagers

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Roundup: Parking Limits, Women’s Rights, Minute Man Race …

Posted on April 19, 2024 | 4 comments

Enforcement of downtown parking limits — suspended 4 years ago, during COVID — begins again May 1.

The good news: They’re now 3 hours, up from the previous 1 and 2 hours. (One exception: Post Road East parking remains 1 or 2 hours.)

Enforcement will take place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., 7 days a week.

Some parking areas are designated for all-day parking.

Click here for a map of all downtown parking lots, including aerial views, and the number of timed, all-day and electric vehicles spots. The map is also shown here:

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More police news: The WPD is investigating a car vs. canine accident last Saturday (April 13), at 11:30 a.m. on Compo Road North adjacent to Winslow Park. A driver struck a dog, then left the scene.

Anyone who witnessed the accident should email jkimball@westportct.gov.

Dogs occasionally run away from Winslow Park. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Yesterday’s “06880” story on “Suffs” — the musical about early 20th century suffragists that opened last night on Broadway — highlighted producer Jill Furman, a Westporter.

There’s another local connection: 2008 Staples High School graduate Leo Stagg.

A former Staples Player member (and winner of the Paul Steen Award for Fine Character, Dedication, Honesty, and Excellence in Performance), he is the head carpenter for “Suffs.”

His mother Heli — who runs the Westport Library café — was at last night’s show.

The “Suffs” set.

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Speaking of women’s rights:

State Representative Anne Hughes will discuss reproductive justice issues, in Connecticut and the nation, after this Sunday’s Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport service.

Hughes — whose district includes Weston, Easton and Redding — has sponsored pro-choice legislation that expands the eligibility of trained practitioners, nurses, and physician assistants to provide abortions, and blocks Texas and other states from targeting Connecticut patients, doctors and advocates.

The event is sponsored by UU Westport’s Reproductive Justice ​​Committee. The public is invited to the April 21 10 a.m. service, or the discussion only, which begins around 11:30 a.m.

Questions> Email beth@uuwestport.org, or call 203.227.7205, ext. 10.

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There’s a new “Passage” at Pasacreta Park.

That’s the name of Niki Ketchman’s new sculpture. It was installed yesterday at the peaceful oasis on Riverside Avenue, across from Saugatuck Elementary School.

The work is part of a joint initiative between the Westport Arts Advisory Committee, Westport Parks & Recreation Department and the Parks & Recreation Commission, to beautify town parks. It is on loan for 5 years.

Ketchman — whose work has been exhibited at the Katonah Museum, New Britain Museum of American Art, and the Aldrich and Bruce Museums — can  visit her work often. She has lived in Westport for almost 50 years. 

A public dedication is set for May 4 (4 p.m.).

Sculptor Niki Ketchman (umbrella) watches the installation of “Passage” at Pasacreta Park. (Photo courtesy of Nancy Diamond)

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The Westport Young Woman’s League is sponsoring 2 great — and very different — events.

The 45th annual Minute Man Race  Sunday, April 28 at Compo Beach.

The main event includes a certified USA Track and Field 10K run, 5K run, and 5K walk.

Kids Fun Run activities involve a 50-yard dash, 100-yard dash, 1/2-mile run and 1-mile run, featuring a Kids Zone during and after the race.

On-site refreshments include a food truck, ice cream truck and beer truck.

Race net proceeds benefit a number of area charities. Click here to register, and for more information.

The next day — Monday, April 29 (Christ & Holy Trinity Church, 11:30 a.m.)– the WYWL hosts a lunch with chef and TV host Lidia Bastianich.

The 3-course meal features Bastianich’s recipes. All attendees get a gift from Cuisinart. There’s also a free raffle.

VIP ticket holders meet Bastianich in person, take photos and get an autographed copy of her book, “From our Family Table to Yours.”

The event highlights the Young Woman’s League grant program. Click here for tickets and more information.

The start of a Minute Man race.

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The Rock & Roll Legends exhibit — dozens of Michael Friedman’s photos from the 1960s, including the Rolling Stones, The Band, Janis Joplin and more — draws a constant stream of visitors to the pop-up gallery on Church Lane.

On May 14 (7 p.m.), it will draw a large crowd for an Alzheimer’s Association fundraiser. 100% of ticket sales go the non-profit.

The event includes stories from Friedman himself, Q-and-A, and a raffle to win a photograph and signed book.

For tickets ($100), click here; then click “Donate to the Team” once, and — on the next page — “Donate to the Team” again.

Questions? Email mindiroca@yahoo.com, or call 914-806-3090.

Michael Friedman in his pop-up gallery. His photo shows Levon Helm, legendary drummer for The Band.

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Whether you watched this month’s solar eclipse in full totality (amazing, we’re told), or here in Westport (less so), you probably have a set or two of special sunglasses sitting around somewhere.

You can hold onto them for the next eclipse, years from now.

Or you can donate them to Astronomers Without Borders. The non-profit recycles them. Click here for more information.

The nearest collection sites are in Bethel and Shelton.

That’s a lot closer than the sun.

 

Recycle those eclipse glasses! (Photo/Amy Schneider)

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Seth van Beever ties together today’s “Westport … Naturally” image, and next month’s holiday: “This dogwood tree at 22 Treadwell Avenue was planted for my mom‘s first Mother’s Day, in 1976.”

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And finally … Dickey Betts died yesterday in Florida. He was 80, and suffered from cancer and chronic destructive pulmonary disease.

The New York Times called him “a honky-tonk hell raiser who, as a guitarist for the Allman Brothers Band, traded fiery licks with Duane Allman in the band’s early-1970s heyday, and who went on to write some of the band’s most indelible songs, including its biggest hit, ‘Ramblin’ Man.'” Click here for a full obituary.

(Have a great weekend! No matter what you plan, “06880” will be here for you. We’re your 24/7/365 hyper-local blog. We rely on reader support. Please click here — and thank you.)

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Posted in Downtown, Entertainment, Local business, Police, Politics, religion, Staples HS

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Roundup: Long Lots @ P&Z, 3-Hour Parking, Pet Reiki Meditation …

Posted on December 20, 2023 | 5 comments

In a town noted for long meetings, Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting was remarkable for being particularly lengthy.

For 6 1/2 hours — from 7 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. — commissioners discussed the Long Lots Elementary School renovation project. They’re involved because it can move forward only with their positive 8-24 report (or if they do not vote within 35 days).

The P&Z offered the most in-depth questions — and at times, most skeptical reception — of any town body so far.

Part of the discussion involved the possibility of separating decisions about the new building itself, and a Babe Ruth baseball field that has become part of the discussion. If approved, the field would replace the Westport Community Gardens — forcing a move to (perhaps) the Senior Center.

The meeting ended with no decision. The P&Z will continue its discussion on January 8.

Monday’s session was the first for new member John Bolton. Though he lost his bid for re-election last month, he was nominated by the Republican Town Committee to replace Amie Tesler, who resigned due to increased business responsibilities.

The P&Z voted unanimously in favor. He was immediately sworn in by Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton.

Long Lots Elementary School. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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After the Board of Selectwomen voted recently to place 3-hour limits on some parking spots downtown — up from the previous 2 hours, but not enforced since COVID — officials said the signs would be delivered after the new year.

Turns out, they’re already here — and in place.

This was the scene yesterday, in the Baldwin lot off Elm Street:

(Photo/Bruce Schneider)

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Speaking of downtown:

Tonight, Michael Friedman’s pop-up gallery in Bedford Square (31 Church Lane, opposite Spotted Horse; 5 to 8 p.m.) hosts drop-in party.

Guests can enjoy the dozens of photos on the wall, of the Rolling Stones, The Band, Janis Joplin and many other music legends. All taken by Friedman when he was a rock photographer.

The images were forgotten for decades. Now, Friedman has printed them again, and turned them into a book.

“Exposed: The Lost Negatives and Untold Stories of Michael Friedman” will be given as a complimentary copy, to any purchasing a limited edition print.

Michael Friedman in his pop-up gallery. His photo shows Levon Helm, legendary drummer for The Band.

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“A Sherlock Carol” opened last night, at the sold-out Westport Country Playhouse.

The holiday family production is being performed in 14 theaters this week. The local version features the original New York City cast.

The show runs evenings through Saturday (December 23), with matinees on Friday and Saturday. Click here for tickets, and more information.

“A Sherlock Carol” opening night bows. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Congratulations to Caleb Smith!

The Wreckers’ all-everything quarterback — who led his team to the Class “LL” (extra large schools) state championship 21-20 over West Haven, despite separating his shoulder on the first play — has been named MaxPreps’ Connecticut Player of the Year.

That’s on top of previous honors, like 2-time All-State and FCIAC Player of the Year.

Smith is Staples’ all-time passing leader (5,198 yards), and ranks 3rd in both career rushing yards (2,307) and rushing touchdowns (44).

Last year, he was on the state championship lacrosse team, as well as the state finalist basketball squad.

Caleb Smith

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Wondering how you and your pet can celebrate tomorrow’s winter solstice?

Check out animal Reiki teacher/practitioner Cathy “Cat” Malkin’s guided meditation (Thursday, December 21, 7 to 8 p.m., online; free).

It’s a way for you and your animal family to “de-stress and share your hearts,” during the longest night of the year.

Cat says the zoom event allows people and animals to “come together and share a guided Reiki meditation for peace, joy and relaxation.

“It’s a great way for pet owners to take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle, to share a moment of Zen with their pets.”

Click here for registration, and more information.

Yogi Bear will be part of the Winter Solstice Animal Reiki Mediation Gathering. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

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Williams College junior — and 2021 Staples High School graduate — Arianna Gerig is the New England Women’s Basketball Association Division III Player of the Week.

She averaged 31.5 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 0.5 blocks in a pair of games last week — including the most points in one game in Ephs’ history (43 against Smith College).


Arianna Gerig

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Chris Coogan and his band played to a full house Sunday at the Senior Center.

The holiday concert was sponsored by the Friends of the Westport Center for Senior Activities, thanks to a grant from the Westport Rotary Club — the gift that keeps on giving.

Chris Coogan (right) and his band, at the Senior Center.

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“06880” readers know Mike Hibbard through his weekly contributions to our online art gallery.

But what does the man on the other end of the lens look like?

Surprisingly: Santa Claus.

Mike stopped in the other day at his favorite salon, Austin-Rolfe. Afterward, he paused for festive photos.

He looks great. So, of course, does his newly trimmed bear.

Mike “Santa Claus” Hibbard, with his stylist Nancy Paternostro.

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Speaking of the summer solstice (see item above):

Tessie posed this week, for a “Westport … Naturally” reminder that — in a few days — the sun will again begin setting later each day.

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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And finally … happy 66th birthday to Billy Bragg. He’s not everyone’s cup o’ tea — but I’ve loved his music and messages for nearly 40 years.

(Each day, “06880” delivers hyper-local news and information you can use. If you appreciate our 24/7/365 work, please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Education, Sports, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Pop-Up Rock Photos, Connecticut Movies, Thanksgiving Volunteers …

Posted on November 25, 2023 | 6 comments

“Exposed: The Lost Negatives and Untold Stories of Michael Friedman” — the 1961 Staples High School graduate’s recently published book of intimate photos of the Rolling Stones. Janis Joplin. The Band. Johnny Winter. Gordon Lightfoot. James Cotton. Ian and Sylvia and many others, taken in the 1960s when Friedman worked with and was friends with them — began in 2017, when he displayed them in a Bedford Square pop-up gallery during the holiday season.

It’s the holidays again. And Friedman has opened a second pop-up.

It too is on Church Lane, opposite the Spotted Horse. The photos of Joplin, the Stones, Bob Dylan, Paul Butterfield, The Band, Todd Rundgren, Kris Kristoffersen and (former Westporter) Johnny Winter are as intriguingly powerful as ever.

The gallery will be open through the holidays.

Michael Friedman in his first pop-up gallery. His photo shows Levon Helm, legendary drummer for The Band.

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Speaking of books, Fred Cantor writes:

“’Connecticut in the Movies: From Dream Houses to Suburbia’” was just published. It might make an ideal holiday gift for film buffs. Naturally, there is a strong Westport presence here (starting with the cover, a scene from ‘The Swimmer’).

“One chapter, ‘Dark Suburbia,’ includes write-ups of 4 movies, all of which were filmed and/or set, at least in part, in Westport: ‘The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit,’ ‘The Swimmer,’ ‘Loving’ and ‘The Stepford Wives.’

“Another chapter, ‘Suburban Sex Comedies,’ leads off with ‘Rally ‘Round the Flag, Boys.’

“Author actress Illeana Douglas grew up in Connecticut. She includes other historical background in the book about Westport’s connection to the arts.”

Click here for the Amazon link.

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A very generous family provided Thanksgiving dinner at the Gillespie Center — Westport’s homeless shelter — on Thursday.

It was the second year in a row. And, just like last year, they asked to remain unnamed.

The meal was served by a family that moved to Westport this past summer, along with the grandparents visiting from Florida (where they do similar volunteer work).

“Julie Buchenholz and her daughter Mila have jumped right into the community,” says Helen McAlinden, CEO of Homes with Hope, which oversees the shelter and pantry.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker also stopped by the Gillespie Center on Thursday, a tradition for her on holidays.

Rear (from left): Clemence Lecornu, Julie Buchenholz, Pat Wilson of Homes with Hope, and Joe and Shelley Jacoby. Mila Buchenholz is in front.

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Weston’s Lachat Winter Market is collecting gently used adult and children’s winter coats next Saturday (December 2, 106 Godfrey Road West).

They’ll be donated to Open Doors, the South Norwalk homeless shelter and community resource center.

The Lachat Winter Market is always a great holiday shopping event. This year’s event is entirely indoors.

Vendors sell art, clothing, jewelry, housewares, baked goods and other locally produced foods. Click here for more details. 

Important note: The Barn Bar will be open too.

Lachat Winter Market

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” roams further than ever: the moon and Jupiter, seen through high atmospheric clouds.

But hey: The photo was taken right here, in our home town.

(Photo/Imogen Blackburn)

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And finally … in honor of Michael Friedman’s pop-up photo gallery (story above), here are 3 songs of artists he’s associated with — all with at least one Westport or Weston tie:

(As you plan your holiday shopping, please don’t forget “06880.” Click here to make a tax-deductible contribution to your hyper-local blog. Thank you!) 

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Posted in Downtown, Entertainment, Local business, Weston

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Roundup: Bridgewater Home, Volunteer Fair, Motorcycle Fire …

Posted on September 7, 2023 | 10 comments

The former home of the world’s largest hedge fund may become home to 14 residential homes. Four would be deemed “affordable,” according to state guidelines.

As first reported by Westport Journal, the houses — built by an LLC that includes David Waldman, the developer of projects like Bedford Square and the Bankside condos — would be constructed on 3.7 acres in the northwest part of the 16-acre property, off Weston Road.

The proposed homes are shown at the top of the Glendinning property.

The homes at “Cottage Village at Glendinning Place” would be 3 bedrooms. The “affordable” homes (for buyers who make 80 percent of state median income) would be half the size of the market-rate houses.

The land — named for Ralph Glendinning, who built a 48,000-square foot modern office park there for his marketing firm in the 1960s — includes a pond and pathways. It is at the confluence of the Saugatuck and Aspetuck Rivers, and abuts Aspetuck Land Trust’s Leonard Schine Preserve and Children’s Natural Playground.

Bridgewater Associates moved out earlier this year. They consolidated their hedge fund operations at the Nyala Farm office complex, off I-95 exit 18.

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New to town? Newly retired? New empty nester? Inspired by the new year (school and/or Jewish) to do something new?

If you are interested in volunteering — but don’t know where to start — the Westport Library, Town of Westport and League of Women Voters of Westport can help.

On Saturday, September 23 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), the 3 organizations are teaming up to host an adult volunteer fair in the Library’s Trefz Forum.

Over 2 dozen community organizations will be represented. Each will have a staff member to provide information and answer questions.

The Library will also host a volunteer expo for teens on Wednesday, October 4 (4:30 to 6 p.m.), featuring local youth organizations with volunteer opportunities.

Organizations participating in the September 23 adult volunteer fair 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.

There are countless ways to volunteer here. Food Rescue — picking up excess food, and delivering it where it’s needed — is just one.

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The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport has a new transitional minister.

Rev. Alan Taylor will serve the congregation both from Westport and Oak Park, Illinois, where he and his family live permanently. He will preach 3 Sundays out of 4 — 2 in person, and 1 via virtual broadcast.

Rev. Alan will carry out his duties both in person in Westport, and virtually via email, Zoom and phone from his home office in Oak Park. He is serving in partnered ministry with UU Westport’s longtime minister of music, Rev. Ed Thompson.

Rev. Alan will first preach from the pulpit in Westport at this Sunday’s service (September 10, 10 a.m.). All are welcome to join in person or via livestream.

UU Westport’s previous senior minister, Rev. Dr. John Morehouse, has moved to a developmental minister role in a church outside of Philadelphia.

Rev. Alan Taylor

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The Westport Rotary Club hosted a board member of another outstanding group, at Tuesday’s meeting.

Ed Spilka of Wheel It Forward described their “lending library.” People who need durable medical equipment like wheelchairs, and related products can borrow them at no cost.

People with “lightly used” equipment can donate them too — helping others, and keeping what’s no longer needed out of landfills.

Ed Spilka of Wheel It Forward.

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between August 30 and September 6.

One man was arrested after a resident reported that several checks worth $30,000 were returned due to insufficient funds, or account closed. The checks had been stolen, and attempted to be used to pay rent.

A man was arrested and charged with illegal possession of personal identity information, identity theft, and illegal trafficking in personal identity information. The incident began after a May 31 arrest at BevMax. A warrant was then obtained for a cell phone search. Evidence implicated the man in a larger, more complex fraud involving the purchase and sale of “high-end” liquor, using fraudulent credit cards. The scheme took place in many East Coast states.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 11 citations
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 2
  • Failure to carry registration or insurance card: 2
  • Speeding: 1
  • Failure to obey a stop sign: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle while under suspension: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Failure to carry a license: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1

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The Westport Country Playhouse “script in hand” season continues Monday, September (18, 7 p.m.). with “100 Saints You Should Know.”

Theresa (played by Tony Award winner Celia Keenan-Bolger) is a single mother with a rebellious teenage daughter. Working as a cleaner in a church rectory, she rekindles her religious beliefs and searches for validation from the priest.

But the troubled pastor, questioning his own faith, suddenly leaves the church and returns home to his protective mother. Theresa tracks him down, ultimately changing both of their lives.

All tickets are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Celia Keenan-Bolger

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A recent “06880” Roundup photo featured a series of holes dug next to the pedestrian path, leading from Old Mill to Compo Cove.

Property owner Jeff Northrop Sr. reports they’re for a new fence, identical to the one on the other side of the walkway.

A sign will say “Children and fishermen welcome.”

Northrop learned to fish there, as a child. “I want to keep it open access,” he says.

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Henry Wynne is one of 20 elite runners participating in Sunday’s 42nd annual Fifth Avenue Mile race.

The 2013 Staples High School and 2017 University of Virginia graduate — one of the greatest runners in Connecticut history — will cover the 20-block stretch of New York City far quicker than nearly anyone else can.

Of course, it helps that all the traffic lights will be green. (Hat tip: John Nathan)

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A motorcycle blaze sent the Westport Fire Department to the Westport Weston Family YMCA parking lot Tuesday afternoon.

Yesterday morning, this was all that remained:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Rock music, photography, art and fashion combine soon at WEST.

The Post Road East boutique hosts Michael Friedman for a discussion and signing of his very cool book “Exposed: The Lost Negatives and Untold Stories” (September 21, 6 p.m.).

The book is a treasure trove of up-close, personal — and excellent — photos of the musical icons the 1961 Staples High School graduate worked and hung out with, more than half a century ago.

You know: Janis Joplin, The Band, Kris Kristofferson, Rita Coolidge, Todd Rundgren, Paul Butterfield Blues Band, James Cotton, the Rolling Stones ….

Many were part of a 2019 exhibit at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

A portion of the proceeds from the “Sound Exposed” WEST event, including 20% of limited edition print sales, will benefit Neighborhood Studio. The non-profit provides after-school arts education for Bridgeport youngsters.

WEST will also offer 20% off all clothing and merchandise at the event, plus giveaways like signed copies of Friedman’s book, and tickets to the Bridgeport “Sound on Sound” music festival.

“Sound Exposed” is free, but registration is required — click here.

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Kerri Rosenthal hosts an “Art of Beauty” event next Wednesday (September 13, 5 to 7 p..).

The Art of Beauty event on Wednesday September 13th 5pm-7pm.

Her favorite esthetic, Erin Meyers-Albaridi from New Beauty & Wellness, will discuss art, fashion and (of course) beauty. There’s a raffle and swag bag too.

It’s free, but RSVPs are requested here.

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The New York Times reports the August 17 death of Sarah Wunsch, at her Massachusetts home. She was 75, and suffered a stroke 3 years ago.

The 1965 Staples High School graduate “championed citizen protections on issues of race, gender and free speech and helped persuade New York’s highest court to declare that men could be prosecuted for raping their wives,” the Times says.

“As deputy legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts for almost three decades, Ms. Wunsch brought innovative challenges before the courts, aimed at safeguarding a wide range of public behavior, including panhandling for small amounts of change, tattooing, wearing certain hairstyles in school and videotaping on-duty police activity.”

Click here for a full obituary.

Sarah Wunsch (Photo/Kathleen Dooher)

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Our “Westport … Naturally” feature celebrates all kinds of living things. We’ve run photos of deer (plenty), eagles (handsome), lanternflies (ugh) … you name it.

Today we feature a first: an orb-weaver spider, from Elisabeth Levery’s patio near Longshore.

It may not be particularly good-looking when you see it around your home. But Elizabeth sure makes it look interesting here.

(Photo/Elisabeth Levey)

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And finally … Gary Wright, the singer-songwriter with a couple of synthesizer-infused hits, died Monday in California. He was 80, and suffered from Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia.

Another day, another Roundup, another “06880” post filled with all kinds of Westport (and Westport-ish) news. Please support our work. Click here to contribute. Thank you!

 

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Posted in Local business, Obituaries, Police, Real estate, religion

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Roundup: Pizza, Trump, Cops …

Posted on April 6, 2023 | 9 comments

Old Mill Grocery & Deli, Outpost and Romanacci were all double winners in Westport’s Great Pizza Contest.

Nearly 2,000 votes were cast throughout March, for 14 restaurants and markets.

OMG won in the Best Meat and Best Veggie Pizza categories. Outpost won for Best Slice and Best Delivered Pizza, while Romanacci copped top honors for Best Personal and Best Gluten-Free Pizza.

Solo winners were La Plage (Best Flatbread) and Pizza Lyfe (Best Plain).

The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce sponsored the event. They’re already planning next years return of the Great Burger Contest.

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Joe Tacopina — one of former President Trump’s lead lawyers — was not the only Westport connection to Tuesday’s historic Manhattan arraignment.

Staples High School Class of 2002 graduate Toby Burns covered the event for The Hill.

And, Toby says, his longtime friend and fellow Staples grad Frank Runyeon — an award-winning criminal justice reporter for legal news service Law360 — was “the most knowledgeable court reporter on the ground” outside the courthouse. He helped coordinate “hundreds of global journalists.”

That’s not all. Frank also drew the lucky straw, and was the first journalist of all those hundreds to see the actual indictment. (Hat tip: Kerry Long)

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Speaking of elections: There are 53 new voters in Westport.

The League of Women Voters registered them — all seniorso — yesterday, as part of Staples High School’s Invest in Yourself day.

It was the first such event since the pandemic began 3 years ago.

New voter registration at Staples.

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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between March 29 and April 5.

A home health care aide was arrested for 2nd degree larceny, illegal use of credit card, and receiving goods obtained by illegal use of credit card, after a complaint by a Westport resident.

A Westport man was arrested for 3rd degree criminal mischief after a complaint from someone who saw him punch and break a window in the front door of a business. Police investigated the license plate, and found the man with fresh cuts and blood on his hand. He had no explanation for why he broke the window.

Westport Police did not report citations issued this week.

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Michael Friedman’s great new book “Exposed” — his lost-and-then-found up-close-and-personal photos chronicling rock legends like Janis Joplin, The Rolling Stones and The Band — gets great exposure April 22 (7 p.m., Westport Library).

He’ll talk about the book, the photos and the stories behind them on a panel with WPLR’s Mike Lapitino and longtime local musician Roger Kaufman.

The panel will be followed by live music from the era with Kaufman’s longtime band, Old School Revue. Special guests include drummer Chris Parker (who played with Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, the Paul Butterfield Blues Band and Todd Rundgren), bassist Stu Woods (Dylan, Rundgren, Jim Croce), and Staples High School graduate Drew Angus.

Signed copies of Friedman’s book, along with prints, will be available for purchase.

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Also at the Library:

Westporter Margrit Strohmaier celebrates the launch of her second book — “What to Know Before You Get Your Cat” — on April 19 (7 p.m.).

She’ll be interviewed by Julie Loparo, president of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates. This book is aimed at young readers; it’s a follow-up to her debut, “What to Know Before You Get Your Dog.”

It’s part of the “Saugatuck Scribes: Healing & Caregiving” event. Tracy Livecchi — who wrote Healing Hearts and Minds: A Holistic Approach to Coping Well With Congenital Heart Disease — will be featured too.

The discussion will be followed by book signings, and a drawing for a gift basket.

Margrit Strohmaier

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And more about writing:

Westport Writers’ Workshop‘s “More Than Words: Celebrating Outreach to Unheard Writers” fundraiser is set for April 28 (6 to 9 p.m., Wakeman Town Farm). The event includes light dinner fare, music, a door prize and silent auction.

Proceeds support WWW’s Outreach Program. The writing organization offers in-person and online workshops for writers of all levels, along with “the gift of expression” to people unable to take a traditional class.

Westport Writers’ Workshop has expanded their reach outside their core classroom to individuals undergoing special challenges, or who have survived hardship, abuse, or trauma.

The Outreach Program provides complimentary writing workshops for organizations that request them. Volunteers help new writers heal and grow through story.

Among the WWW’s partners: the Center for Empowerment and Education, Homes for the Brave, Caroline House, Harlem Village Academies, Writing for Women Affected by Breast Cancer, College Essay Writing for Fairfield Seniors, and Writing for Women with Special Needs Children. For more details on the program, email info@westportwriters.org.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Club 203 — Westport’s social organization for adults with disabilities — heads outside, for its next event.

TAP Strength leads a fun, fitness and movement field day on April 20 (6 to 7:30 p.m., Jesup Green). MoCA Westport will be there with crafts, too.

The cost is $10 per person. Click here to register.

Westport Book Shop will be open during the event, for parents to mix and mingle.

New members can click here to join Club 203, and click here for the consent form.

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If spring cleaning includes getting rid of old mattresses and box springs — hold on until May 20.

That morning Earthplace, Sustainable Westport and Bye Bye Mattress will sponsor a free mattress and box spring recycling event. Up to 90% of them can be recycled into carpet pads, exercise equipment and bike seat cushions, insulation, air filters and steel materials.

The event runs from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., at Earthplace.

Can’t transport your mattress or box spring? No problem!

Boy Scout Troop 36 will provide pickup service, for a small donation. Click here to sign up.

Saving the planet, one mattress at a time. (Photo: Pippa Bell Ader)

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Yesterday’s wind brought kept most people away from Compo Beach.

But it attracted at least one kiteboarder.

Today’s forecast calls for showers, but with temperatures reaching into the 70s.

(Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)

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Andy Weeks spotted today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo in a very nature-unfriendly part of town: Compo Shopping Center.

Somehow, this old tree survives amid traffic, gasoline fumes, even an old metal post.

As baseball season begins, remember the adage: “Mother Nature bats last.”

(Photo/Andy Weeks)

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And finally … congratulations to Westport’s Great Pizza Contest winners:

 

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Local business, Restaurants, Staples HS

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Michael Friedman’s Rock Photos: “Exposed”

Posted on February 22, 2023 | 11 comments

Michael Friedman has done a lot in his 78 years.

The Staples High School Class of 1961 graduate produced “Hello, It’s Me.” He managed Todd Rundgren and Kris Kristofferson — as well as (with Albert Grossman) the careers of Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, The Band, Odetta, and Peter Paul & Mary. He did publicity for the Dave Clark 5 and Herman’s Hermits.

He sold Americana and folk art. He owned the Ash Creek Saloons in Fairfield and Norwalk, along with Darien’s Goose restaurant.

With such varied careers — and so much going on — he could be forgiven for losing the negatives of photos he took half a century ago.

They were not random snapshots of the Friedman family at the beach, or their naked newborn in a bathtub.

These were up close, personal — and superb — shots of some of the biggest names in the music world.

Mick Jagger (Photo copyright Michael Friedman)

The Stones. Janis Joplin. The Band. Johnny Winter. Gordon Lightfoot. James Cotton. Ian and Sylvia. All are artists Friedman worked with in the 1960s.

In 2016, his wife Donna stumbled upon them. They’re remarkable — not just for their power and professionalism, but because they’re atypical musician images.

They’re much more human. Freidman took his photos as a friend, not a “photographer.”

But he was a damn good one, for sure.

Friedman spent several months printing, restoring and mounting the photos.

He displayed them at a pop-up gallery the next year, in Bedford Square. Developer David Waldman offered him the space, after seeing one photo and hearing his stories.

Janis Joplin (Photo copyright Michael Friedman)

The show was well received. The photos were shipped to the California Heritage Museum, then to a year-long exhibit at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Attendees in LA and Cleveland repeated what Westport gallery-goers said: Michael should compile them into a book.

More than 5 years later, that daunting project is almost complete.

“Exposed: The Lost Negatives and Untold Stories of Michael Friedman” is in the Kickstarter phase — almost ready to print. Many of the 100 photos have never been seen — not even in the photographer’s shows. They’re accompanied by essays and explanatory text.

It was a long process. One of the hardest parts was figuring out exactly where each photo was taken, and when.

Donna spent many of hours researching. For example, a shot of an outdoor concert with Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge looked like a college — but there were no records they performed outside, on a campus.

Finally, Donna saw a photo online of a building that matched one in the background. The site: Columbia University.

Friedman also had no idea where he took a well-composed image showing a mother, child, VW bus and police officers.

Eventually, he and his wife realized the police officers were not Americans. They followed that rabbit hole all the way to the 1970 Festival Express in Toronto. They found a documentary film from 2003, which showed the same scaffolding behind the bus.

Friedman’s essays complement the photos. They are short but insightful portraits of nearly everyone he’s met in the music industry, from mega-stars to mighta-beens.

The essays also provide context for his life — including his introduction to rock music, as a Westport boy growing up in the 1950s.

He describes Mike Borchetta, the Staples High School student who brought Bo Diddley and Harvey & the Moonglows to town (and who asked 15-year-old Friedman to take over as drummer, when the Moonglows’ percussionist passed out drunk).

Harvey & the Moonglows gave Michael Friedman a signed photo. Leader Harvey Fuqua told their stand-in drummer: “Mike, you count to 4 good for a white boy.”

Friedman writes about his time with Westport’s first rock band, the Schemers (with lead singer Barry Tashian, later of the Remains).

Prodded by Donna, he brings the reader into the photos. “People want to know what it was like to be 25 years old in 1968 — in the middle of the music business,” he says. “I want them to take the journey with me.”

But it’s the photos that take center stage. The Stones on stage. Janis Joplin chatting in a hallway. Todd Rundgren in the studio. Levon Helm being Levon.

Michael Friedman with a photo of Levon Helm, legendary drummer for The Band.

Those images fill the 233 pages of “Exposed.”

Michael gives his wife — who found the negatives in the first place — credit as “curator, director, producer, editor, consultant and psychiatrist” for the project. “She had a clear picture in her mind, of how to put it all together.”

Unwilling to cede creative control to an agent or publisher, the Friedmans are self-publishing.

It’s a risky — and costly — venture. But it’s in fitting with Michael’s multi-varied career.

And his personal philosophy, honed in the music business and articulated by his longtime friend Kris Kristofferson: “By not having to live up to other people’s expectations, I was somehow free.”

(To see the Kickstarter page for “Exposed,” click here.)

(“06880″‘s tagline is “Where Westport meets the world.” We meet that world with readers’ help. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Looking back, Media

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Michael Friedman Enters The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame

Posted on November 13, 2019 | 3 comments

You saw them in a pop-up gallery on Church Lane.

You know the photographer: Michael Friedman. The Staples High School Class of 1961 graduate had a long career in music. He managed Todd Rundgren and Kris Kristofferson — as well as (with Albert Grossman) Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, The Band, Odetta, and Peter Paul & Mary. He did publicity for the Dave Clark 5 and Herman’s Hermits.

Nearly 3 years ago, he discovered an astonishing series of photos he’d taken almost 50 years earlier.

Mick Jagger (Photo copyright Michael Friedman)

The Stones. Janis Joplin. The Band. Johnny  Winter. Gordon Lightfoot. James Cotton. Ian and Sylvia. Rita Coolidge. Tom Rush. Professor Longhair. Paul Butterfield — all were artists Friedman worked with in the 1960s.

Friedman spent several months printing, restoring and mounting the photos. Each was up close, and personal.

Michael Friedman in the Church Lane pop-up gallery. His photo shows Levon Helm, legendary drummer for The Band.

After the Westport show, the photos headed to the California Heritage Museum in Los Angeles.

Now they’re in Cleveland — at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

The exhibit includes the guitar that Janis Joplin played on “Me and Bobby McGee” in concert. Friedman’s photos of her with the instrument — which she used onstage only twice, and only for that song — are the only ones known.

Janis Joplin’s “Me and Bobby McGee” guitar, with his photo of her.

It took more than a year for the exhibit to come together. His wife Donna Vita provided invaluable help.

Now it’s up, and attracting great attention. After the ribbon-cutting, Friedman was interviewed live by chief curator Karen Herman, at the Hall.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame interview.

Friedman’s exhibit runs for 6 months. Yet when it ends, it’s not over.

His entire collection of over 100 images will be archived, in perpetuity.

Which makes sense. As Neil Young sings, “Hey hey, my my/Rock and roll can never die.”

(Click here to see many of the photos on exhibit at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.)

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Entertainment, Organizations, People, Staples HS

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Woodstock: Westport Remembers

Posted on May 13, 2019 | 20 comments

If you grew up when I did, you’ve got a Woodstock memory.

I had a ticket and everything (except actual plans about how to get there).

Me, in my Woodstock days. Or should I say, Woogstock.

Then I got grounded. (Well deserved, I must admit.) Instead of getting rained on, sleeping in the mud and being awakened by Jimi Hendrix, I sat at home. I read about the huge festival in the New York Times. A few months later, I saw the movie.

Several years later — now out of college — I was cleaning my old room at my parents’ house. I found my Woodstock ticket: still pristine, never used.

“Oh,” I said to myself. “That’s interesting.”

And promptly threw it out.

That’s not the most compelling — or financially savvy — Woodstock story. But it’s mine.

Other people have much better ones.

Like Michael Friedman (Staples High School 1961 grad/music producer/ photographer). Roger Kaufman (Staples ’66 musician/musicologist). Dodie Pettit (Westport actress/singer/Woodstock attendee). Paul Nelson (Johnny Winter’s guitar player). Ira and Maxine Stone (Woodstock performers). Bruce Pollock (author).

They’ll all be at the Westport Woman’s Club this Wednesday (May 15, 7 p.m.). They’re part of a “Woodstock: 50 Years Down the Road” panel, talking about their experiences at that almost-50-years-ago/seems-like-yesterday historical event.

“Lotta freaks!” Arlo Guthrie said. “The New York State Thruway is closed!”

After the discussion, the Old School Revue’s Woodstock All-Stars will play  favorite hits from Woodstock. Performers include Kaufman, Pettit, the Stones (Ira and Maxine, not Mick and Keith), Pete Hohmeister, Frank Barrese, Bob Cooper, Billy Foster and Nina Hammerling Smith.

Special guests include Rex Fowler of Aztec Two-Step, Robin Batteau and the Saugatuck Horns (Joe Meo and Fred Scerbo).

The event is free (but register online; seating is limited).

In other words, you don’t need a ticket.

That’s good. If I had one, I’d probably throw it away.

(For more information, click here. “Woodstock: 50 Years Down the Road” is sponsored by the Westport Library.)

20 Comments

Posted in Arts, Entertainment, History, Library, People

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Pop Go The Photos

Posted on September 16, 2017 | 10 comments

Michael Friedman has done a lot in his 73 years.

The Staples High School Class of 1961 graduate produced “Hello, It’s Me.” He managed Todd Rundgren and Kris Kristofferson — as well as (with Albert Grossman) the careers of Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, The Band, Odetta, and Peter Paul & Mary. He did publicity for the Dave Clark 5 and Herman’s Hermits.

He sold Americana and folk art. He also owned the Ash Creek Saloons in Fairfield and Norwalk, along with Darien’s Goose restaurant.

With such varied careers — and so much going on — he could be forgiven for losing the negatives of photos he took nearly 50 years ago.

Of course, they were not random snapshots of the Friedman family at the beach, or their naked newborn in a bathtub.

These were up close, personal — and superb — shots of some of the biggest names in the music world.

Mick Jagger (Photo copyright Michael Friedman)

The Stones. Janis Joplin. The Band. Johnny  Winter. Gordon Lightfoot. James Cotton. Ian and Sylvia. Rita Coolidge. All are artists Friedman worked with in the 1960s.

Last January, his wife Donna stumbled upon them. Friedman spent the next several months printing, restoring and mounting the photos.

Soon, they’ll head to the California Heritage Museum in Los Angeles.

Janis Joplin (Photo copyright Michael Friedman)

But right now, they’re part of a pop-up gallery in Bedford Square. Friedman’s taken over an appropriately scruffy, unfinished space opposite the Spotted Horse. Dozens of images are on display there — and for sale.

Michael Friedman in his pop-up gallery. His photo shows Levon Helm, legendary drummer for The Band.

There’s been no publicity. Yet plenty of folks discovered the intriguing gallery during last weekend’s Blues, Views & BBQ Festival. The word is getting out.

But remember: This is a pop-up place. Soon, the photos will be gone.

At least this time Friedman will know where they went.

10 Comments

Posted in Downtown, Entertainment, Local business, People

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