The 9th annual Dog Festival is today (Sunday), from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Winslow Park.
Crazy competitions, vendors, an obstacle course, K-9 demos, food trucks, photos, adoptables, Gilbert the Party Pig — your dog is already tugging at his leash to go.
It’s $10 per person, $30 for a family of 4. Dogs are free!
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The first Y’s Men of Westport & Weston media panel discussion, featuring Senator Richard Blumenthal — about coverage of the 2024 election — riveted a Westport Library audience earlier this year.
The next one — June 1 (2 p.m.) should be just as compelling.
The focus is on how well print, electronic and social media covered the first 100 days of the Trump administration.
Panelists include: Congressman Jim Himes; Alisyn Camerota, author, blogger and veteran of CNN and Fox News; Rebecca Surran, the longtime face and voice for local news at News 12; Jim Marpe, former Westport 1st selectman, and Aaron Weinstein of Fairfield University’s media department.
The Westport Downtown Association adds some fun facts about their 52nd annual Fine Arts Festival, set for next weekend (May 24-25) on Main and Elm Streets, and Church Lane:
261 artists applied for 167 spots, in 14 categories. They come from 19 states.
Seven are from Westport: Mikhail Zakhalov (jewelry), Mary Ann Neilson (painting), Gali Katz (printmaking), and photographers Nancy Breakstone, Tom Kretsch, Ron Lake and John Videler.
42 artists — the most ever — will make their debut festival appearance.
Photographer Nancy Breakstone returns to the Fine Arts Festival.
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AWARE is one of my favorite organizations.
The acronym stands for Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education, and that’s exactly what these Westport women do.
Each year, they choose one very worthy local nonprofit. They raise funds — but do much, much more.
All year long, they offer hands-on involvement. They dive deep into each organization’s work, get their hands dirty with volunteer work, and form deep friendships with leaders and participants.
This year’s beneficiary is Bridgeport’s Center for Family Justice. They do crucial work helping people who have experienced physical and mental abuse.
AWARE’s partnership this year has included workshops for their clients, including budgeting, yoga, nutrition and makeovers, along with events for children in their programs.
A “Justice in Bloom” fundraiser is set for May 29 (6 to 8 p.m.). It includes cocktails, light bites, and a chance to meet Center for Family Justice representatives.
Like many readers, Aimee Monroy Smith was moved by Matthew Gotto’s recent “06880” Opinion piece about drastic cuts proposed for the Bridgeport school system.
She writes: “I am a member of the Sunrise Rotary Club. Twice a year we read at Luis Muñoz Marin Elementary School. It is an amazing school, and always an enjoyable experience.
“This year, a fellow Rotarian recommended taking the next step to support the classrooms, by giving through DonorChoose.org. It supports teachers who request specific items for their classrooms.
“Following up this idea, I noticed that the Dalio Foundation is matching all contributions.”
Click on DonorChoose here; then select “See Classroom Projects,” and select “Bridgeport, CT” from the map.
Matthew Gatto, with Blackham Elementary School students.
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A Westport woman wanted to give back to the community she loves.
She posted on social media that she’d be giving away dozens of tomatoes and dahlia bulbs, at the foot of her driveway.
They were gone quickly.
Because one person took them all — every plant. Plus the table they were sitting on, which the woman’s daughter had made (and had great sentimental value).
The selfish thief even took the broken crate the dahlias were in. And a dirty towel.
The woman had been planning her next giveaway to the community: 40 pepper plants.
But no longer. She figures one person does not deserve all of them, too.
Plants, table and crate, before they were all taken.
Wakeman Town Farm tells all local chefs, caterers and foodie friends that their farmer expects a big haul of 100 heads of freshly grown organic lettuces, and 70 pounds of garlic scapes in early June.
Westport Rotary Club, the Sunrise Rotary and Westport Police Department joined together yesterday, on a food drive for Homes with Hope.
It was their first-ever at Big Y. As they always do — wherever volunteers collect for a pantry, or any other good cause — Westporters came through.
Community service, at Big Y.
Quickly, the donations were delivered to the Gillespie Center:
But that was not the only service rendered by Rotarians, on their worldwide day of community work.
They also gardened at the men’s and women’s shelters on Jesup Green … among many other activities.
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Yesterday’s Roundup noted that the Independence Day fireworks are set for July 2. We should add that the rain date is July 3.
And although the press release said that tickets would be available at the Parks & Recreation Department office in Longshore starting May 26, that’s Memorial Day. They’ll be closed. They’ll be open May 27, of course.
And the police station never closes, so they’ll have tickets on May 26.
Getting ready for Westport’s biggest party. (Drone photo/Charlie Scott)
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Speaking of Compo Beach: the Parks & Recreation Department has partnered with the Westport Arts Advisory Committee to launch a brand-new initiative: the Compo Mural Art Competition.
Residents are invited to design a mural that will bring “color, creativity and connection to the spirit of Compo Beach…. This can include sea life, beaches, marine landscapes, water activities, or the general beauty and vibe of the coastal area.” The site is the long white wall on the side of the Hook’d concession building.
All ages and levels of ability can enter. Submissions can be emailed to pkoskinas@westportct.gov, or dropped off at the Parks & Rec office in Longshore. The deadline is July 7. Full competition details can be found here. (Hat tip: Britt Steel)
Who was that on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival Friday night?
Cameron Mann.
Cameron Mann (far left) at Cannes.
The 2024 Staples graduate — known for, among other things, his role in “Mare of Easttown” (spoiler alert: He was the killler) — is part of the cast of “Eddington.”
The film — starring Austin Butler, Emma Stone, Pedro Pascal and Joaquin Phoenix — debuted at the 78th annual French event. According to Variety, it earned a 5-minute standing ovation.
A commentary on American social discourse, it follows “a standoff between a small-town sheriff (Phoenix) and mayor (Pascal)” that “sparks a powder keg as neighbor is pitted against neighbor in Eddington, New Mexico.”
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Westport’s longtime information technology director Eileen Zhang is retiring.
She joined the town 30 years ago, when IT infrastucture was just beginning. She helped build Westport’s information systems and digital services across all departments.
When a successor is named this summer, he or she will be our first new information technology director of the millennium.
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Westporters have many reasons to be grateful for Miggs Burroughs.
The Staples High School graduate and Artists Collective of Westport co-founder has contributed many works to town, from his lenticular art at the train station and Main Street “Tunnel of Love,” to the 150th-anniversary flag he designed in 1986.
Now he’s done it again.
The Senior Center is presenting “Gratitude,” a series of his photos. They show 9 people, each expressing a letter from the word “gratitude,” in American Sign Language.
Through his lenticular technique, their hands appear to move. A simple gesture transforms into a powerful tribute to appreciation and connection.
The models — all associated with the Senior Center — are Prill Boyle, Penny Pearlman, Janet Turansky, George Kleros, Ruth Taranto, Janice Burke, Leslie markus, Molly Algera and Lee Walther.
Miggs Burroughs, with his “Gratitude” exhibit at the Senior Center.
Today’s brilliant “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Thursday’s Westport Farmers’ Market. Amy Schneider saw — at photographed — it at the Muddy Feet Flower Farm stand.
And finally … Charles Strouse — the Tony, Grammy and Emmy Award-winning Broadway composer of hits like “Annie” and “Bye Bye Birdie” — died Thursday in Manhattan. He was 96. A full obituary is here.
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Got drugs you no longer need (or want)? Or those that have expired?
This Saturday (April 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Senior Center) the Westport Police Departmet takes part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
Residents can bring tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs to the Senior Center.Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container.
Do NOT bring syringes, sharps and illicit drugs. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.
Drop-offs are free, and anonymous.
Westport Police also offer a year-round collection bin in the lobby of the headquarters building on Jesup Road. There is a supply of medication disposal bags in the lobby, to dispose of liquid and pill medications in your regular garbage.
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Speaking of police: This Friday (April 25), Rizzuto’s Oyster Bar & Restaurant will have some special staff members.
From 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., Westport Police Department officers will welcome diners, take orders and serve meals.
No, Rizzuto’s is not short staffed. And the police are not pocketing the proceeds.
The Tip-A-Cop event is a fundraiser for Special Olympics Connecticut. Customers are encouraged to leave extra tips. All tips the officers receive will help provide sports, health and fitness programs to athletes of all abilities.
Our police are known as Westport’s finest. Thanks to the force, Rizzuto’s and Special Olympics, for this very “fine” idea.
Two long-vacant storefronts at “Elm & Main” — the new name for what decades of Westporters knew as Brooks Corner — will soon be filled.
Everything But Water is moving into the old Birddogs space. The Orlando-based women’s retailer specializes in designer swimwear, vacation essentials and accessories.
They operate 34 stores. Westport will be their third in Connecticut. The other locations are Farmington and Greenwich.
Beyond Yoga opens their second Connecticut store in September. The first will be in Greenwich, starting next month. The female-founded activewear brand is owned by Levi Strauss.
Fun Fact: Brooks Corner was named not for longtime tenant Brooks Brothers, but for B.V. Brooks. The real estate developer built the shopping center in the early 1960s.
Speaking of openings: The next location for The Granola Bar is …
… 330 Madison Avenue, in New York City.
Instantly popular from the day in 2013 when it opened in Playhouse Square — still its “flagship” location, with offices nearby — the breakfast/lunch/catering-and-more spot has since expanded to Fairfield, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich, plus Rye, Woodbury (Long Island) and the Upper West Side.
Now comes Midtown — just steps away from Grand Central.
Tomorrow’s Board of Education meeting (Thursday, April 24, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria) includes the usual mix of topics: academic performances, revisions to the school caelndar, board policies regarding employees, and students with disabilities.
The discussion item at the end should be less dry. It’s about Staples Block “S” trophies, and the controversy raised this year when the traditional metal awards were replaced by plaques.
“Wild About Veggies: Tips for Planting a Garden” (May 5, 7 p.m.). Learn about seasonal rotations, and much more. Click here to register.
“Learn to Shuck Oysters with a Local Pro” (June 8, 5 p.m.). Then enjoy the oysters you open (from Copps Island in Norwalk). You’ll also gain an understanding of oyster anatomy, and learn about the history of oyster farming here. $50; BYOB. Click here to register.
Coming Sunday (April 27) to the Weston History & Culture Center i
Opening Day of “Images of a Forgotten Village: Valley Forge” (1 p.m.). The Saugatuck Reservoir in Weston was home to a small neighborhood called Valley Forge. Now the once-thriving community of mills, forges and farms has vanished from memory and sight. The only reminders are photos.
Author Talk with Heather Pemberton About her debut thriller, “Hidden Below” (3 p.m.) — inspired by the history of Weston’s Valley Forge
Both are free for members, with a suggested donation for non-members.
For 2 decades, STAR Lighting the Way’s “Walk & Roll” has been a spring highlight. The event brings together families, friends, supporters and businesses to celebrate individuals of all abilities, and raise needed funds for STAR’s programs and services, aiding people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
This year’s event is May 4 (Sherwood Island State Park, 10:30 a.m.). The day includes family activities, music, food trucks, games and entertainment.
As always, the public is invited to walk, roll, volunteer or cheer from the sidelines. Click here to donate, register to walk or roll, or become a sponsor.
Here’s an early head’s-up, on an event that will sell out soon.
On June 27 (6:30 p.m.,), Mystic Bowie’s Talking Dreads make their first-ever Westport appearance.
They’ll fill the Westport Library with their fun Caribbean swagger, and bouncy reggae rhythms, for a special dance party.
Salon says: “Talking Dreads play Talking Heads songs as shimmering one-drop reggae jewels. Tom Tom Club vet Mystic Bowie (swaps out) urbanity for roots and sincerity.”
Tickets are $37.50. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Max Harper’s family and friends — and many Westporters who did not know the Staples High School senior who died last fall — are admiring a new memorial to him.
The handsome stone is at Compo’s South Beach, near the trees and benches.
It was designed by longtime Westport artist (and Staples graduate) Miggs Burroughts.
On a cold, windy March day, an expert from Enduring Monuments met Miggs and Max’s father Marcus at the rock Marcus had chosen.
The Westchester firm had created stencils from Miggs’ artwork. They blasted as pecial powdery spray into it, then spray painted the recessed areas to make them stand out.
Creating the memorial …
… and the finished memorial. (Photo/Pam Docters)
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A reader writes: “I went into the AMC (used to be Bowtie) Royale 6 this afternoon. They are open. Who knew?!
“I thought they had closed. They switched owners, and took down the board where they used to post movie titles you could see from Route 1. So for the last 6 months I drove by and thought they were closed. I bet 50% of Westport has no idea they are open.”
I’m in the 50% who knew they were open. In fact, I bet 90% of the town did not think they were closed.
But, as a public service announcement, I’m relaying the “news.”
Hopefully, it’s a lot more interesting than all the announcements you hear before a movie.
At the AMC Royale 6, which — did you know? — is open!
And finally … in honor of the AMC Royale 6 theater (story above):
(You go to the movies every once in a while. But “06880” entertains — and maybe informs and inspires — you several times a day. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Since 2002, the Malloy Lecture in the Arts has brought some of the world’s most extraordinary creative voices to Westport.
Clive Davis, Arthur Miller, Joyce Carol Oates, Christopher Plummer, Salman Rushdie and others have sparked thought-provoking, engaging conversations for Westport Library audiences of all ages.
The lectures were underwritten by Westport artist Susan Malloy.
Now — thanks to the Malloy Fund for the Arts — the Library is reimagining the series.
The relaunched event will celebrate Westport’s artistic legacy, while also looking toward its future.
On March 6 (7 p.m.), the Library hosts an evening of conversation and storytelling. Some of Westport’s most influential artists will reflect on how this town has shaped generations of creatives.
Actor/director Jim Naughton — a Weston resident — will moderate the panel discussion. Participants include graphic artistMiggs Burroughs, whose work has defined the town’s artistic identity; Melody James, a leader in the arts known for fostering creative expression; and singer/ actor Melissa Newman, who launched her photo-based book about her parents, Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman, at the Library in 2023. All are Westport residents.
Ann Sheffer — a passionate arts advocate and philanthropist whose family’s contributions have helped shape the cultural fabric of Westport — will also speak.
Additional special guests will be added closer to the event.
Their conversation will explore how Westport has become a magnet for artists, performers and creatives for decades; how the town’s artistic spirit has evolved, and continues to thrive in new and exciting ways; and the role of the next generation in carrying forward Westport’s rich cultural heritage.
Ever wished you could snag an invite to Craig Melvin and Lindsay Czarniak’s house?
I’ve never gotten one. But thanks to the New York Times, I — and anyone else on the planet with internet — can check out a few highlights.
Today’s New York Times Real Estate section — and a previous digital feature several days ago — shows a few rooms. The new NBC “Today” host reveals how the family landed in Westport (it was midway between New York and Bristol, Connecticut, where she works for ESPN), and near a train station.
He talks about their strong relationship with the town (youth sports coaching, PTA, etc.).
And he shows off his grandmother’s beloved chair, and his own candle-making equipment.
All of the comments on the Times story are favorable. Many note how genuine and hard-working the couple is. Many others cite how lived-in and well-loved the house seems to be. It’s not fake or prettified, like many celebrities’ homes.
One commenter applauded the creases in the couch, as evidence that it’s actually used.
Click here for a tour of Craig and Lindsay’s home. (Hat tips: John Karrel, Les Dinkin)
Craig Melvin’s chair, vinyl and more. (Photo/Tony Cenicola for The New York Times)
As a busy doctor — and the mother of 2 — Jordan White doesn’t have a lot of time to dance.
But the 1994 Staples High School graduate is making time for Dancing with the Doctors. The April event pairs a Providence doctor with a professional dancer. Proceeds benefit Hope Health Hospice & Palliative Care.
Dr. White is a consultant medical director at the Rhode Island Department of Health, and a course leader in the Primary Care-Population Medicine Program at Brown University’s Warren Alpert Medical School.
She focues on RIDOH’s refugee health program, family planning/reproductive justice, and the health of pregnant and parenting families.
Hernan Diaz — author of “In The Distance,” the Westport Library’s 2025 WestportREADS selection — entertained a large Trefz Forum audience Thursday, in a keynote conversation.
Catherine Shen — host of Connecticut Public’s morning talk show and podcast
“Where We Live” — asked provocative questions. Diaz answered scintillatingly, with depth and insight.
Catherine Shen chats with Hernan Diaz. (Photo/KT Kaminski)
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We all know the dog days of August.
Half a year away, here is a “Westport … Naturally” dog day of February.
And finally … on this date in 1923, Howard Carter unsealed the burial chamber of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.
(Through snow, rain, sleet, hail — and brilliant sunshine — “06880” is here for you. We’re your 24/7/365 source for hyper-local news, events, opinions and more. Please click here to support us. Thanks!)
Jonathan Steinberg was not a fan of 122 Wilton Road.
Like many Westporters, the state representative thought the new apartment building at the Kings Highway North corner was too big for the land, and too close to wetlands.
But when Steinberg learned who will be moving in, he changed his mind — dramatically.
He’s betting many other Westporters will too.
The 19 Homes with Hope apartments were distributed by lottery to “working poor” individuals, and their families.
Nearly all have ties to Westport, through jobs and/or families.
Some work in local supermarkets; others for landscape companies, and cleaning homes.
One apartment will be rented by a Ukrainian family. They’ve been underhoused, since arriving in Westport as refugees.
122 Wilton Road apartments.
According to Helen McAlinden, CEO of Homes with Hope, an individual must earn $42.50 an hour to afford a studio apartment in Fairfield County.
Someone making Connecticut’s minimum wage of $15.69 an hour — and working 2 jobs — cannot come close to that.
Nineteen of those workers — and, in some cases, their families — will now have secure housing. For some, it’s the first time in their lives.
Every resident of 122 Wilton Road is “a productive member of society,” McAlinden says. They have at least one job. They work hard, serve employers and customers, pay taxes, and have hopes and dreams for the future.
“This building will allow these people an opportunity to live in this wonderful town,” where some already work, McAlinden says.
Their children “will reap the benefits of our brilliant school system. In many cases, they’ll be the first in their family to go to college.”
Kitchen, in a 3-bedroom apartment.
One of the many excited new tenants is a woman named Laura. She’s the community closet coordinator for Open Doors Shelter in Norwalk.
She’ll move in with her fiancé — who prints shirts in a warehouse for an e-commerce firm — and their 2 1/2-year-old daughter.
“Honestly, this is life-changing,” Laura says.
They’ve spent the past 5 years in one bedroom, at his grandparents’ house.
“It’s a blessing to be with them,” Laura acknowledges. “But our daughter needs her own space. We need to not worry about her making too much noise, and to cook whenever we want.”
The hunt for affordable housing has been “discouraging,” Laura says.
“We’ve been on lists in Norwalk, but others were closed. We applied in Stamford and Fairfield, but never heard back.”
She learned about the Wilton Road apartments from another list she is on.
“We can’t wait,” Laura says. “We’re a little nervous, but we feel like this is our time.”
A bedroom in one of the 122 Wilton Road apartments.
Another new resident is an older, disabled Westporter who works around town. On a fixed income, he could not afford to be here any longer. He is thrilled to now remain in the community where he was raised, and has lived for so long.
122 Wilton Road is close to the Post Road bus route — an important consideration for those without a car.
And — crucially — those 19 units of affordable housing will go a huge way to help Westport meet the state’s 8-30g requirement, avoiding lawsuits and other, potentially much larger, construction due to a lack of such housing.
Because of the building’s size and location, Steinberg says, “I was frustrated for the community. None of us expected a good outcome.”
But, he says, when he learned that all the units would be deemed “affordable,” under Connecticut’s income formula, he realized its benefits.
“Westport is a model for the state,” as legislators contemplate changes to regulations, he says.
Because of this project, and other small clusters of affordable housing in town, “we will have a seat at the table in Hartford. We can help direct the best outcomes for Westport.”
The hallways are decorated with art and photographers by Westporters Miggs Burroughs, Tom Kretsch, Katharine Ross and Susan Fehlinger. All have local or New England themes. Burroughs paused earlier this month, while hanging the works.
The original plan was for 6 units of affordable housing, and 13 at market rate. Town officials denied the plan. But after 7 years of litigation, developer Richard Friedman prevailed, on 8-30g grounds.
McAlinden developed a good relationship with the builder. When he decided to sell the building, McAlinden realized it aligned with Homes with Hope’s mission: to end homelessness in the area, and provide resources for self-reliance.
The units include 4 one-bedroom apartments, 8 with two bedrooms, and 7 with three. Millenium Property Management will manage the building.
Homes with Hope will connect residents with essential resources, including job training, counseling and other support services.
“Essential workers like store associates and service industry professionals are the backbone of Westport,” Homes with Hope notes. “Yet many struggle to find affordable housing near their workplaces.”
Living close to work will reduce commuting times and costs. Increased disposable income can be reinvested in the local economy.
Affordable housing fosters economic diversity. “This inclusivity strengthens the cultural richness of Westport, creating a more vibrant and dynamic place to live,” Homes with Hope adds.
For months, Westporters have driven past 122 Wilton Road, and wondered who would want to live there.
Now they know: 19 hard-working, very appreciative families do.
Posted onMay 11, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: Northern Lights, Library Book Sale, Walkable Westport, …
The Northern Lights — a rarity over Westport — were visible early this morning.
A geomagnetic storm caused the show, for the first time in nearly 20 years.
Amateur astronomer Franco Fellah captured the celestial magic over Elmwood Lane:
Staples High School senior Charlie Scott captured this image, near Clinton Avenue:
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The Westport Library’s Big Spring Book Sale starts next Friday (May 17), and runs through Monday, May 20.
There are thousands for children and adults in more than 50 categories of nonfiction and fiction, children’s and antiquarian books, vinyl, CDs, movie and television DVDs, plus ephemera and artwork.
Hours are: Friday, May 17 (noon-6 p.m.); Saturday, May 18 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.); Sunday, May 19 (11 a.m.-4 p.m. — half-price day); Monday, May 20 (9 am.- 5 p.m. — fill the Library’s logo bag for $10, fill your own same-sized bag for $8, or buy items at half price).
On Friday May 17, the Book Sale will be open from 8:45 a.m. to noon only to people who buy an early access ticket in advance. Click here to purchase.
“Walkable cities” are environmentally, socially and economically vibrant.
Can Westport become a “walkable town”?
Sustainable Westport thinks so.
On June 4, the non-profit group brings urban planner Jeff Speck to Bedford Middle School (6 p.m. reception, 6:30 presentation).
Offering firsthand observations of Westport, he’ll share his thoughts on how we can become more walkable, bikeable and sustainable. He’ll also provide suggestions on short- and long-term efforts we can take toward those goals.
Rhone — the men’s clothing store on Main Street and a longtime champion of mental fitness — is hosting an evening dedicated to the topic.
The May 30 event (Westport Woman’s Club, 5:30 to 8 p.m.) includes inspirational speakers, a silent auction, and a “Mind & Muscle” experience led by Eric Johnson. It combines dynamic workouts with mental health discussions, combining physical and mental well-being.
Rhone co-founder and CEO Nate Checketts will deliver the keynote.
Rhone will donate 10% of proceeds from all purchases between May 31 and June 2 to Westport-based Positive Directions.
Westport-based singer Sophie B Hawkins is on a spring tour.
She won’t have to travel far next Saturday (May 18). She’s booked for a 7:45 p.m. show at Fairfield Theatre Company’s Stage One.
She’ll perform a collection from her new album. Each tells a own powerful story. Click here for tickets, and more information.
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Best-selling “Cork Dork” author Bianca Bosker returns to the Westport Library June 11 (7 p.m.), for a chat with artist/author Miggs Burroughs. They’ll talk about her book “Get the Picture” — a fascinating journey into the secretive world of art and artists, from cave paintings to Instagram.
Bosker threw herself into that milieu: gallerists, collectors, curators, and artists themselves. Her research even included a stint as a museum security guard.
Just added to the Westport Country Playhouse calendar: a screening of the film “When My Sleeping Dragon Woke,” followed by a Q-and-A with writer Sharon Washington and director/producer Chuck Schultz (June 14, 7 p.m.).
Washington shares intimate moments that strengthened her as she grew from a little girl in a library, to a young woman embracing new opportunities and breaking down barriers.
Following the screening of the film will be a discussion in the theatre with Sharon Washington herself and director/producer Chuck Schultz.
Westporter Stephen Rappoport — CEO of Lamy America — was honored this week at the Night for Sight gala at New York’s Chelsea Piers. The event benefited the Foundation Fighting Blindness.
Lamy America donates a portion of sales of its Two Blind Brothers optical products toward finding a cure for blindness. (Hat tip: Avi and Liz Kaner)
Stephen Rappoport
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Julie Conti, a 30-year resident of Westport, died Thursday at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Bridgeport. Born on July 4, she was 74.
Her daughter Gabi writes: “She used to scream ‘I love this town! out the window while driving over the Cribari Bridge.
“She lived so many extraordinary lives. She was the only one in her family to get out of Brooklyn. She became an American Airlines flight attendant in the 1970s despite being 5-foot, brunette and Italian (the competition was tall, blonde and from Texas).
“She thought she found her happily ever after at 27 when she met a first-class passenger, but when that relationship crumbled she packed up a trailer and drove back to Brooklyn.
“She didn’t give up. She started working at Doyle Dane Bernbach in New York, where she met her soulmate, Paul Conti. Together they started Big Time Productions, producing commercials and music.
“In the mid-’90s she was diagnosed with a rare form of stomach cancer. After an exhaustive pre-internet search, my dad found the one doctor who could save her life. She was cancer-free ever since.
“Julie was involved in New Neighbors, Green’s Farms Church, Westport Country Playhouse, PTAs and Staples Players.
“When I went off to college she started working for Meridith Baer, a home staging company. She convinced them to bring their business to Westport.
“She always loved the theater. As a girl she auditioned for “The Sound of Music” on Broadway. She didn’t get the part, but in her 60s she decided to follow her love of performing by taking acting classes at Staples with Al Pia.
“My mom was a fighter who never gave up, and lived so largely until it was her time. Her favorite activity was walking along Compo Beach, which she did every day until she couldn’t walk anymore.
“The day she died we went to the beach and felt her walking along beside us, as a ray of sunshine that followed us along the Sound.
“All are welcome to celebrate her life, this Friday (May 17, 11 a.m., Greens Farms Church.”
Julie Conti
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Paul Delano found a host of beautiful birds, all around town. Here’s one for our “Westport … Naturally” feature: an orchard oriole.
Ans finally … in honor of both the “Walkable Westport” and shoe collection stories (both above):
(If it’s happening in Westport, you’ll read about it here. If you enjoy reading about it, please consider a contribution to your hyper-local blog. Just click here — and thank you!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Northern Lights, Library Book Sale, Walkable Westport, …
Posted onFebruary 1, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: Box Tree Moth, Martha & Miggs, Andrew Marchand …
Cindy Shumate — Westport’s garden designer extraordinaire — passes along this environmental warning from Paul Sztremer, the contractor in charge of planting and maintenance at beautiful Prospect Gardens in Greens Farms:
“There is a new, very destructive insect out there.
“It’s called box tree moth (or simply boxwood moth). Once settled within boxwood plants it can devour them within a short period of time, causing unsightly defoliation or even their demise.
“We will be on the vigilant lookout for them this season. I recommend you keep a look out as well. They can cause costly damage if missed or ignored.
The silver lining is that, just like the fairly new spotted lanterfly, they can be eradicated easily with almost any insecticide, if spotted in time (before they cause major damage).”
Cindy says they travel 3 to 6 miles a year.
“Boxwood is a favorite foundational plant in many Westport gardens. It would be devastating if this invasive pest would settle in here,” she says.
The silver lining is that, just like the fairly new Spotted Lanterfly insect, they can be eradicated easily with almost any insecticide, if spotted in time (before they cause major damage).
Andrew Marchand — the 1991 Staples High School graduate who, Poynter.org says, “probably breaks more sports media news than anyone in the business” — is leaving his longtime post at the New York Post.
His new home: The Athletic.
The New York Times — The Athletic’s owner — calls Marchand “a leading reporter at the intersection of sports media, television rights, talent and business for years.”
The former Mets and Yankees beat writer’s scoops include Joe Buck and Troy Aikman leaving Fox Sports for ESPN; the Apple deals involving MLB and MLS; Al Michaels’ shift from NBC to Amazon; Tom Brady’s stunning deal with Fox, and and the NFL making more than $100 billion on their new TV deals,
At Staples, Marchand played varsity soccer. (Hat tip: Bill Kutik)
Andrew Marchand
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Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between January 24 and 31.
A woman was arrested for larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, forgery and conspiracy to commit forgery after a $560 check was stolen. She allegedly deposited it fraudulently in a bank account, for $5,500.
A man was arrested on a failure to appear warrant.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 15 citations
Failure to comply with state traffic control signals: 8
Failure to comply with state traffic control regulations: 6
Speeding: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Failure to obey stop sign: 2
Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 2
School zone violation: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension/alcohol: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without tint inspection: 1
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Fetch Rescue announces 2 events this weekend.
This Saturday (noon to 2 p.m., Feather & Fringe, 252 Post Road East) there’s a “fetch rescue” puppy adoption.
Sunday (12:30 to 2 p.m., Choice Pet, Compo Acres Shopping Center) brings another puppy adoption event, plus a free “Puppy 101” training session.
Questions? Email jessie@fetch-rescue.com.
This dog may not be up for adoption this weekend. But many others will be.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce held a joint meeting with the Norwalk Chamber of Commerce last night, at Jacob’s Pickles in the SoNo Collection.
It was a great chance to meet and greet — and enjoy a very cool new Southern comfort cuisine-themed restaurant.
(Photo/Matthew Mandell)
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La Plage is well known for its romantic waterside views.
That’s especially true on Valentine’s Day.
To celebrate, the Longshore restaurant offers a 3-course prix fixe menu.
Click here for the $95 per person menu. Reservations are required: 203-684-6232.
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Terry Tannen’s exhibit “Awakenings” — on view at The Westport Library through March 12 — is a collection of sunrise photographs taken over Sherwood Mill Pond.
“This series is a tribute to the last year of my beloved husband Charles Tannen’s life,” Terry says.
“Chuck was an avid lover of nature, photography and adventure. As his fight with Parkinson’s progressed, our goal became finding the beauty in what was in our present moment, in gratitude. Thus, ‘Awakenings.’”
An artist’s reception is set for February 12 (6 p.m.).
Untitled (Terry Tannen)
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One of the 2 people killed in 3-vehicle accident early Friday morning on I-95 in Fairfield was 75-year-old William Foster.
Better known as Billy, he was the front man and lead singer with Billy and the Showmen.
The band was popular throughout the tri-state region, and appeared often at the Levitt Pavilion. Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: MaryLou Roels)
“On Wednesday I was so lucky to enjoy lunch at Rive Bistro. The food was delicious as always, but the ducks just outside the window were the best entertainment. Amazing to watch them diving for their lunch!”
And finally … on this date in 1896, “La Bohème” premiered in Turin. The conductor was 30-year-old Arturo Toscanini.
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world: from the Lower East Side to France, and everywhere else. Please help us continue our hyper-local — yet global — work. Just click here. Thank you!)
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Posted onJanuary 18, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: De Tapas, Warming Centers, Trash Pickup …
De Tapas is closing.
The Spanish gastrobar on the Post Road next to Design Within Reach will serve its last meal on Sunday, January 28.
Owner Carlos Pia opened right after COVID, 2 winters ago. The restaurant was a leap of faith, after a career in corporate America. Click here for his compelling back story.
Then go say goodbye, and thank him for enhancing our dining scene.
Westport residents facing hardships due to the cold weather should contact Human Services for assistance: 203-341-1050 weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Just in time for the new year: Westport’s trash pickups begin again.
Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella has organized the first 2024 session for Winslow Park. It’s this Sunday (January 21, 11 a.m.).
Volunteers will pick up garbage, and remove hazards from the walking paths. All are welcome. Dress warmly and appropriately!
A little snow should not deter Sunday’s trash pickup at Winslow Park.
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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between January 10 and 17.
A woman was arrested for larceny and identity theft, after a complaint that 9 checks had been stolen and fraudulently deposited into a bank account.
A man was arrested for identity theft and forgery, plus criminal attempts to commit larceny, identity theft and forgery, after a check for $249.65 was stolen, altered and deposited in the amount of $17,262.37.
A man was arrested for violation of a protective order and assault on an elderly victim, following a domestic disturbance.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 11 citations
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 6
Speeding: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
For over a month last fall, an exhibition by 2 Westport artists enthralled visitors to the United Nations lobby.
Miggs Burroughs’ “Signs of Compassion” — 30 lenticular photos, showing local residents using sign language to recite Emily Dickinson’s poem of the same name, and Mark Yurkiw’s accompanying Braille “prayer wheel” mantra, based on those he saw in Bhutan (including a wheelchair-accessible element) — were displayed on a 102-foot curved wall.
On Tuesday, the two men described their accomplishment — the first-ever UN exhibit not sponsored by a member nation — at the Westport Rotary Club’s weekly lunch.
Their next project: sending the exhibit to venues around the world.
Mark Yurkiw and Miggs Burroughs, at the Rotary Club meeting. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
Speaking of art: Longtime Staples High School teacher and mixed media artist Camille Eskell is featured in a new exhibit — (Re) Work it!: Women Artists on Women’s Labor,” at the Mattatuck Museum in Waterbury.
The show explores the many types of labor that women are often expected to manage – caring for their family, participating in the labor force, negotiating beauty standards, handling emotional labor and more.
A reception for the 30 artists is set for January 21 (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.). The show runs through May 19. For more information, click here. To learn more about Eskell, click here.
Four of the 6 new members of the Westport Country Playhouse board of trustees are from Westport or Weston
Dave Altman is a principal for Bernstein Private Wealth Management.
Ben Frimmer is a theater arts educator with over 30 years’ experience, and the director of Coleytown Company. He produced the Playhouse fundraiser “An Evening with Justin Paul & Friends with Kelli O’Hara & James Naughton,” and will produce and direct “Voices for Volunteers of Fairfield County” on January 24.
Anne Keefe has served the Playhouse in many capacities since 1973, including associate and co-artistic director with Joanne Woodward. She initiated and curated the Script In Hand series. Formerly she stage managed at Long Wharf Theatre, McCarter Theatre in Princeton, New Jersey, and on Broadway, and served previously on the Playhouse board.
Jonathan Levy is a Westport native, and an attorney who built a venture capital business.
Speaking of the Playhouse: Nearly everyone knows the name Vince Lombardi. The Super Bowl trophy is named for the legendary football coach.
Now you can learn the story behind that name.
The Broadway play — based on the book “When Pride Still Mattered,” by David Maraniss — kicks off the Westport Country Playhouse’s Script in Hand series on February 5 (7 p.m.).
Click here for more information, and to purchase tickets ($30).
Following up on October’s Westport Library presentation on helping families and communities prepare for emergencies, Voices Center for Resilience offers a free webinar.
“The Ripple Effect of Trauma” (January 23, 7 p.m.) explores how children experience tragedy, including building resilience.
Josh Koskoff has earned tons of national attention. As lead attorney representing the Sandy Hook families, he won a momentous decision in a defamation lawsuit against conspiracy theorist Alex Jones.
On Tuesday, the Staples High School graduate, longtime Westport resident and senior partner at Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder of Bridgeport was on a different stage: the Westport Rotary Club’s lunch meeting.
He noted that 20 years ago, mass shootings were not a major problem. He cited some factors that explain our gun violence epidemic, including laxer gun laws, excessive greed on the part of gun manufacturers, internet-enabled direct marketing of assault weapons to young people, and a “crisis of unhappiness” that makes them susceptible to angry, toxic and violent messaging.
Koskoff ended on a positive note. He believes that gun control forces are growing, becoming moreorganized and financed, and now stand a better chance of passing necessary legislation.
Josh Koskoff with an AR-15 assault rifle, at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
The Bedford Acting Group invites everyone to “Be Our Guest, Be Our Guest, Be Our Guest” at their production of “Beauty and the Beast: The Broadway Musical!”
With strong vocal and dance talents, an inventive set and fine costumes, the well-known tale about a spirited, book-loving French village girl, the hideous beast who imprisons her, and the quirky, hilarious characters in the famous classic come to life.
For younger fans, BAG offers a special opportunity to participate in a “Be Our Guest Experience.” It includes a meet-and-greet with Belle and other characters from the show, plus “Beauty and the Beast”-themed crafts and games. The event will take place Saturday, December 2 at 1:30 p.m., before the matinee (separate tickets are required).
Performances are Friday, December 1 (7 p.m.).; Saturday, December 2 (3 and 7 p.m.), and Sunday, December 3 (3 p.m.). Borh matinees are already sold out. Click here for tickets to the evening shows.
The cast and crew of Bedford Acting Group’s “Beauty and the Beast.”
50 years ago tomorrow — November 12, 1973 — Time magazine published their first editorial ever. It called for the resignation of President Nixon.
The cover read “Nixon’s Jury: The People.” It showed 12 people, in various stages of contemplation about the Watergate scandal-engulfed chief executive.
That cover was drawn by Miggs Burroughs.
He was just 27 years old. Less than a decade earlier, he’d graduated from Staples High School.
“It was not my proudest moment artistically,” he recalled yesterday.
Because of an extremely tight deadline, he worked in the Time/Life office. Staffers ordered paint and supplies from the Arthur Brown Art Store nearby.
Then they stood over Miggs — with the doors barred — until he was done.
Because of its historical significance — it was the magazine’s first editorial, after all, the magazine is now in the Smithsonian Museum.
“Not the best looking jury ever convened,” Miggs added.
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As temperatures drop, the Westport Fire Department has partnered with Bridgeport Rescue Mission for a “Share the Warmth” coat drive.
New or gently used (and clean) winter coats, hats, mittens, gloves, scarves and snowsuits can be dropped off at Fire headquarters (515 Post Road East), the Senior Center and Town Hall through December 15.
Several schools will have collection boxes at their entrances, too.
Westport firefighters will sort and transport the items to the Bridgeport Rescue Mission.
The Secretary of the State’s office has released official turnout results for Tuesday’s election.
In Westport, 45.6% of eligible voters cast ballots. That’s up from 43.1% in 2021 — the last town-wide election (although that also included state-wide races, like governor and the General Assembly).
Throughout Connecticut, turnout was 33.3% — exactly one-third of eligible voters.
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Last month, Westporter Walter Fischel was evacuated from Ashkelon, Israel, where he had lived and worked for 9 months. Because there was so much uncertainty around when and if he would return to work, he decided to travel.
Though he will make a full recovery, his passport, phone and credit cards were stolen.
He got a new passport and should be well enough to travel next week, but his accounts have been frozen since the robbery and he is unable to book a flight home.
All funds raised will go directly to Fischel, to assist with travel, medical expenses, and living expenses for him and his family.
“Back in the spring I bought some pre-cut butternut squash from Trader Joe’s. At the bottom of the tray I found 1 seed, and put it in water.
“It sprouted, so I stuck it into a small pot with soil. It turned into a little plant.
“Thrilled to see the growth, I stuck it in the ground. Amazingly, that 1 seed became a huge vine over 25 feet long!
“My daughter Mikayla and I tended to it all summer. We just harvested 5 beautiful monster-sized butternut squashes. Never underestimate the power of one small seed!”
Mikayla and Linda Doyle, and their butternut squashes.
Aspetuck Land Trust’s next “fall lunch and learn” webinar could not be more timely.
Arborist Chris Teter discusses fall foliage (Friday, November 17, noon to 1:30 p.m.). He’ll explain the biology of leaves on trees and shrubs in autumn, highlight their significance in the ecosystem, then connect it to urban and suburban settings.
He’ll also provide information on how to use leaves to enhance both beauty and ecological value.
And finally … in honor of Miggs Burrough’s Time magazine cover, 50 years ago tomorrow (story above):
(From Watergate to winter coats, butternut squash to fall foliage, “06880” is your place for hyper-local news. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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