Tag Archives: MoCA Westport

Roundup: White Oak, Horseshoe Crabs, Shorefest …

Posted on August 10, 2023 | 6 comments

The delay in removing a white oak tree on Appletree Trail was only temporary.

This was the scene yesterday:

(Photo/Cathy Morrison)

The property will be redeveloped, with a new home and pool.

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The final summer meet-up for Club 203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — is Monday (August 14, 6 to 7:30 p.m.) at MoCA. The evening includes a chance to make art.

Season 2 begins September 20. Details will be announced soon. Click here for more information on the club.

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As crabbers flock nightly to Sherwood Mill Pond and Old Mill Beach, they’ve lost one species: horseshoe crabs.

Yesterday, Governor Lamont signed a bill banning the harvest of horseshoe crabs in Connecticut waters.

The legislation was sought by advocates who say that the population in Long Island Sound has plummeted in recent years. Thousands of horseshoe crabs are captured each year, often for use by fishermen as bait in traps to catch whelk and eels.

Many are also captured by the biomedical industry, which uses blood from horseshoe crabs for vaccine research.

The population decline has also raised concerns from organizations dedicated to the conservation of birds, who say that migratory shorebirds like the red knot rely on horseshoe crab eggs for food during their annual migration to the Arctic.

New Jersey, Delaware and South Carolina have adopted similar bans.

Compo Beach horseshoe crab (Photo/Lauri Weiser)

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One of the most enjoyable sites for a fundraiser is the main pavilion at Sherwood Island State Park.

That’s the site for Shorefest. Set for September 8 (6 to 9 p.m.), it’s the only time of the year guests can stay at the park past sunset.

The evening includes food, live jazz piano, a silent auction (and of course, a Sherwood Island sunset).

Catering by Westfair Fish & Chips includes lobster, steak, salmon or vegetarian, plus appetizers, salad, dessert and beverages. Burgers and hot dogs are available for youngsters.

All proceeds support the habitat restoration, education and advocacy work of Friends of Sherwood Island State Park. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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MoCA’s annual benefit — set for September 30 (7 p.m.) — has a special theme: “The Surrealist Soirée.”

The evening includes imaginative décor, avant-garde performers, a DJ, auction, and catering by Marcia Selden. Guests are encouraged to “dress creatively in line with the evening’s surrealist theme.” Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Saugatuck Rowing Club has a world champion!

Rosie Lundberg of Westport won gold recently, in the women’s U19 4+ race at the World Junior Rowing Championships in Paris.

Two other SRC athletes competed as well. Fairfielderes Ella Casano placed 4th in the women’s U19 8+, while Fairfield’s George Bentley was 5th in the mens’ U19 4+. Both are coxwsains.

The World competition followed SRC’s strong performance at the US Rowing Summer Nationals in Ohio last month.

Rosie Lundberg (center) and her Saugatuck Rowing Club gold medal-winning teammates. (Photo/Row2k)

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Gabriele’s Italian Steakhouse welcomed a special guest the other night.

Governor Ned Lamont and his wife Annie dined at the restaurant, next to the Westport Country Playhouse.

A few diners chatted with the state’s leader, but most let him enjoy a good meal, quietly.

If they recognized him at all.

Governor Ned Lamont (left) and Danny Gabriele, owner of Gabriele’s Italian Steakhouse.

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If you’ve always wondered about “Uncovering the Non-Spherical Shapes of Bodies Beyond Neptune,” you’re in luck!

Darin Ragozzine — associate professor at Brigham Young University — will discuss that exact topic on next Tuesday (August 15, 8 p.m.), through the Westport Astronomical Society’s free science lecture series.

Click here for the YouTube livestream.

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Westporters are familiar with much of our town’s coastline.

But we don’t always get to see a view from Cedar Point Yacht Club.

Here’s a shot, for our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Eileen Lavigne Flug)

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And finally, musical giant Robbie Robertson died yesterday in Los Angeles, after a long illness.

The lead guitarist and chief songwriter for The Band — the seminal Americana folk/rock/country/gospel group (including 4 Canadians, and only 1 American) — was 81.

The New York Times obituary quotes him: “I wanted to write music that felt like it could’ve been written 50 years ago, tomorrow, yesterday — that had this lost-in-time quality.” Click here for the full story.

(From Westport to Neptune and beyond, “06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Environment, Restaurants

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Roundup: Birds, Gardens, MoCA …

Posted on July 17, 2023 | 30 comments

It’s been a while since we checked in with our ospreys.

Carolyn Doan visited the Fresh Market raptors on Saturday. She reports:

“I found mom on the very top of a neighboring pine tree. She was giving herself full view of the action around her.

“To her left, the first of her 3 chicks had fledged and was enjoying space away from his sisters. To her right, 2 female nestlings were front and center in the nest, getting ready for their first flight. It may happen this week!”

(Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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Speaking of our fine feathered friends: “Birdbrain” is not a compliment.

But for the past few years, birds have been bright enough to build nests on top of a fire alarm signal box in the Playhouse Condominiums parking garage.

It’s warm. It’s protected from both weather and predators. And because they’re birds, “home” is a lot easier to access than residents who battle the shopping center traffic every day.

Still, bringing a chick into the world is not easy. In years past, the condo’s cleaning crew has dismantled the nest; other times, the parents abandoned it.

But this year, all’s well in birdland.

The Playhouse Condos proudly announces its newest resident:

Chick, atop the fire alarm box. (Photo/Dick Truitt)

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Speaking still of nature:

On Saturday, the Westport Community Gardens held an open house.

Dozens of residents of all ages flocked to the Hyde Lane oasis. They toured the 100-plus plots; marveled at the wide variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers grown there; enjoyed the pergola and bocce court, and toured the Long Lots Preserve that rings the plots.

Gardeners shared tips — and some of their bounty too.

Enjoying the Westport Community Gardens… (Photo/Lou Weinberg)

… and some of the bounty. (Photo/Karen Mather)

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As summer heats up, so does MoCA.

Last week, members of Club203 enjoyed art classes at the museum. The next Club203 art class is August 14 (6 p.m.).

The organization — Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities — is just one of several MoCA Gives Back partner groups.

The goal of the MoCA program is to offer art experiences to all, through high-quality programming, and strong outreach to under-resourced populations.

MoCA Gives Back is successful, thanks to dedicated volunteers and instructors. 

An exhibition on August 27 will showcase works created by MoCA Gives Back participants. 

Meanwhile, Friday night’s MoCA Some Noise: Open Mic Night offered performers a chance to share poetry, readings and acoustic music in the gallery. More are planned.

Click here for a full MoCA calendar.

Club 203, at MoCA Westport.

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Sure, yesterday was a washout.

But that gives us 4 days for the weather to clear before Thursday’s 9th annual “06880” blog party.

We’re all set for 6 p.m (July 20). The site is Compo Beach — the alcohol-is-okay South Beach, by the trees (the opposite end from the cannons).

Bring your own food, beverages (no glass bottles!), beach chairs and blankets. We can always use a folding table too.

Our blog party is a community gathering – a chance to meet and mingle with the diverse “06880” community (both online and real). It’s fun, un-fancy, and free!

We extend a special welcome to all our new “06880” readers. And those who have never come to our bash. See you July 20!

Patti and Doug Brill and friends say: “Come to the blog party!”

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Longtime Westporter Bernard Dorogusker died on June 29, with his family at his side. He was 97.

The Bronx native was born to immigrant parents. Times were not easy, but he and his 2 siblings experienced a full New York City childhood. He helped in his father’s store, and sold comics on the corner and hot dogs at Yankee Stadium. At 13, he attended the 1939 World’s Fair.

Bernie served in the Army in the European Theatre under General George S. Patton, Jr.

After his service he attended RCNY and the RCA Institutes for post graduate work in radio and electrical engineering. He loved everything about computers, instrumentation and technology, and started his career building computers at IBM.

This led to a decades long engineering career at the Perkin Elmer Corporation. He worked on government projects, including instrumentation for aircraft and the Hubble Space Telescope.

He met his wife, Barbara Helen Zepko, at Perkin-Elmer. They married in 1959, settling down to start a family near Compo Beach.

Bernie’s passion for all things sports included racing cars, skiing and sailing. In the early 1960s he turned in his iconic Austin Healey to focus on One Design competitive sailing.

Bernie was fascinated by wind patterns, aerodynamics and sail performance, and spent years studying data and research.

Cedar Point Yacht Club became his second love (after his family), and Bernie and his Thistle #1124, “Zelda III,” were a fixture of an award-winning fleet for many, many years.

He was instrumental in growing various fleets at the club, and was a master technical scorekeeper for all things racing at CPYC. After decades of successful racing he retired his boat, and became principal race officer for the cruising fleet. The cruising class honors him every year with the Bernie Dorogusker Trophy for every division in their Wednesday night series.

Bernie also was instrumental in publishing a book on Cedar Point’s history.

Seth Vanbeever honored him with a social media post. Seth wrote:

“35 years ago I was in the junior sailing program at Cedar Point. I wanted to race on the big boats, the cruising class, in the Wednesday night series. No one wanted to take a 12-year-old on the boat.

“I went to the race committee and asked if they needed any help. Bernie, who was in his 60s, said, ‘Shuuuuur’ in his New York accet.

“Bernie didn’t put me to work. He taught me to how to do race committee. He took me under his wing (while explaining Bernoulli’s principle) for the next several years.

“I did race committee on Wednesday nights, raced Thistles on the weekends with Bernie and Walt Stuebner. We even sailed in the Frostbite Series at Essex Yacht Club.

“these two men taught me a tremendous amount about the sport of sailing. I will always remember Bernie.”

Bernie is survived by his wife Barbara of Trumbull; daughters Robin of Boxford, Massachusetts and Laurie of Trumbull; grandsons Erik and Alex Weisensee; brother Alvin, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Renie Zinsmeister.

A graveside service with military honors will be held this Friday (July 21, 11 a.m., Oak Lawn Cemetery, Fairfield). A memorial service at the Cedar Point Yacht Club will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or the American Cancer Society. To sign his online guestbook, click here.

Bernie Dorogusker

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Johanna Keyser Rossi almost inadvertently squished this tiny praying mantis the other day, on one of the Riverwalk steps near the Levitt Pavilion.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

It’s a good thing she didn’t. For one thing, it’s Connecticut’s official state insect.

For another, we wouldn’t have today’s “Westport … Naturally photo.

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And finally … Andre Watts died last week, at his Bloomington, Indiana home. He was 77, and suffered from prostate cancer.

The New York Times called him “a pianist whose mighty technique and magnetic charm awed audiences and made him one of the first Black superstars in classical music.”

He was “an old-world virtuoso — his idol was the composer and showman Franz Liszt — with a knack for electricity and emotion. He sometimes hummed, stomped his feet and bobbed his head while he played, and some critics faulted him for excess. But his charisma and his technical powers were unquestioned, which helped fuel his rise to the world’s top concert halls.” Click here for a full obituary.

(If you enjoy our decade of osprey coverage — or anything else “06880” does — please consider a contribution. Just click here — and thank you!).

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Obituaries

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Roundup: College Choices, Hillspoint Teardown, Lyman Party …

Posted on June 15, 2023 | 5 comments

The Staples High School Class of 2023 graduated Tuesday.

This fall, they’ll head out across the country — and beyond.

Here are the top college choices for the 430 graduating seniors:

  • University of Connecticut (includes Storrs, Stamford and Waterbury campuses): 19 students
  • Indiana University-Bloomington: 15
  • Pennsylvania State University-main campus, and Syracuse University: 11 each
  • University of Colorado-Boulder: 10
  • Northeastern University: 9
  • University of Wisconsin-Madison and Virginia Tech: 8 each
  • Tulane University: 7
  • American University, Lehigh University, Miami University, Norwalk Community College, the University of Texas-Austin and University of Miami: 6 each
  • Boston University, Elon University, Fordham University, New York University, University of Vermont and Vanderbilt University: 5 each.

Twelve students are attending universities outside the US. The furthest is the American College of Greece. All told, they will attend 179 different post-secondary institutions.

The #1 intended major is business/accounting/finance. Second is “undecided,” followed by political science/international relations.

Four are joining the military, or attending a military academy.

In addition, 20 graduates have these plans:

  • 2-year college: 7 students
  • Vocational/trade school: 6
  • Employment: 4
  • Post-graduate year: 3,

(Hat tip: Staples High School counseling department; Inklings)

The most popular school for Staples graduates.

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The wrecking ball came today for 254 Hillspoint Road.

The 3-bedroom, 2 1/2-bathroom, 2,866-square foot home on .54 acre, with 120 linear feet of waterfront, was built in 1952. It’s a familiar sight to the many people who walk between Compo Beach and Old Mill.

It sold recently for $5 million.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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When Westporters gather July 9 to celebrate our new sister city — Lyman, Ukraine — we’ll do so with a boost from our long-time and first sister city, Marigny-le-Lozon, France.

The ties forged nearly 80 years ago still endure. Our French friends — who first came up with the idea of joining to help a Ukrainian town, just as Westport did for Marigny after World War II.

Marigny is sending:

  • 3 special sweatshirts, which say “Westport/Marigny-le-Lozon/Lyman”
  • 3 copies of the 700-page book “601 Towns & Villages in La Manche,” with a special bi-lingual, handwritten dedication
  • 1 bottle of “hors d’âge” calvados. It’s a drink that American GIs enjoyed in 1944.

Attendees will get a chance to win the books — and much, much more — at the LymanAID event July 9 (1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Ukrainian-American Club, Southport).

It’s a chance for the community to come together, as thanks for raising $252,000 last winter for Lyman (pronounced LEE-mon).

It’s a free family-friendly day filled with food, fun and music.

There is no admission. You don’t have to pay anything for snacks, drinks and entertainment.

But there will be plenty of opportunities to help Lyman too — including raffles, a treasure sale, Yankee auction, coffee table book pull, plant sale, “LymanADE” stand and more.

There are two tiers of VIP tickets, too. $350 include reserved seating, a commemorative gift, open bar, homemade Ukrainian-inspired meal and more.

VIP Plus tickets ($1,000) receive all those benefits , plus signage with your family name or company logo, a message for the Ukrainian people, and a Ukraine flag signed by Mayor Alexander Zhuravlov.

To RSVP, purchase VIP tickets and for more information, click here. To make a direction directly now, click here; under “Designation,” click on “Westport-Lyman Sister City” in the dropdown menu.

NOTE: The entire event has been privately underwritten. No Ukrainian Aid International funds will be used. All money raised will go directly to Westport’s sister city. 

The Marigny book and dedication flank a bottle of calvados. All are gifts from our sister city of Marigny, as prizes at the July 9 LymanAID event for other city in Ukraine.

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Welcome to the Westport Police Department’s newest officer: Melissa Bike.

The 24-year-old graduate of St. Joseph High School earned a BA in criminal justice investigative services, and a master’s in emergency management from the University of New Haven (where she also starred in softball). After college, she interned with Stamford Superior Court.

Police Chief Foti Koskinas and new police officer Melissa Bike.

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Yesterday’s Pics of the Day carried an incorrect photo credit.

The beautiful shot of a rainbow over Staples High School should have been credited to Jen Kobetitsch. Apologies for the editing error!

(Photo/Jen Kobetitsch)

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The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport celebrates the summer solstice with a labyrinth walk.

Sure, it’s a bit early: this Saturday (June 17, 2 to 4 p.m.).

But there will be talks by applied mathematician Dr. Bart Stuck, and Jungian astrologer Rev. Marjorie Partch, plus sacred music; a mandala coloring meditation, and a chance to “sync up with ongoing lunar cycles to re-focus your intention to manifest your unique potential ~ as revealed in your birth chart ~ with ongoing New & Full Moon Manifestation Circles at Yoga Shala.”

The congregation adds: “Labyrinths have been used for millennia for inner peace, contemplation, walking meditation, spiritual healing, and prayer. The circular paths are a spiritual technology designed to facilitate insight, transformation, and awakening.”

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Our Minute Man looks better than ever.

But — like all of us — the town symbol needs care and attention. He got it this week.

Photographer Jamie Klein did not get the worker’s name. But we thank him for his attention to the Minute Man — and his plaque.

(Photo/Jamie Klein)

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All is set for today’s Bedford Middle School moving up ceremony, at Wakeman Field.

Congratulations, 8th graders! Enjoy the next 4 years. They will pass very, very quickly.

(Photo/Robert Augustyn)

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La Batalla del Vino — the “Battle of Wine” — takes place every June 29 in Haro, a town in the Rioja Alta region of Spain that is home to nearly half of the area’s vineyyards.

DeTAPAS celebrates the annual tradition this year. They won’t be spraying each other with wine from bottles and water guns, the way they’ve done in Haro since the 10th century.

But owner Carlos Pia promises a 6-course tapas and wine pairing, with 6 wines from Rioja.

The cost is $75 per person. Reservations are required: 203-557-0257;  hola@detapasrestaurant.com.

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MoCA Westport’s summer exhibitions feature contemporary artists Richard Tsao and Sao.

Tsao was born in Thailand, and lives in New York. Sao — a native of Portugal — now lives in Southport. Both work with color. Tsao uses accumulative, and Sao layered, washes.

An opening reception is June 28 (6 to 8 p.m.). The event is free for MoCA members, $10 for non-members. Click here to reister.

“Moon Dust” (Richard Tsao)

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Singer/songwriter PJ Pacifico kicks off the Weston History & Culture Center’s 8th annual “Music at the Barn” series on June 25 (5:30 p.m.).

Bring a picnic dinner, BYOB and lawn char. Tickets ($15 members, $20 non-members; children under 12 free) are available at the door (gate?) or in advance. WHCC Members: $15 per person; General admission: $20 per person; Children

In addition to the music there is a kids crafting table, lawn games, and a walk through the  sculpture garden.

PJ’s band’s debut single “Coming Up For Air” debuted on “Grey’s Anatomy.” It shot to #1 on the iTunes singer/songwriter chart, and was featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist.

PJ Pacifico

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Edward L. “Ted” Garrity died peacefully at home on June 4. He was 98.

He was a Michigan native, but grew up in Missouri. After high school he enlisted in the US Army Air Corps, where he earned his wings. He became a B-24 and B-25 instructor at the age of 19.

In 1951, after completing his education at the University of Arizona he was hired as a pilot for United Airlines. He met his wife Cathym who was working in the Denver pilot office. In 1963 they moved to Westport, where they raised 5 children.

During his 34year career at United he flew over a dozen types of aircraft. He began on a Douglas DC-3, then turboprop aircraft, advancing to United’s first jets, before finishing on the Boeing 747.

He quickly rose through the ranks to become an instructor, flight manager and a chief pilot. He continued to fly smaller airplanes for fun after he retired from United in 1984.

During his free time he loved taking his family on ski vacations, sailing, collecting model trains, and staying active around the house. He could fix almost anything, and always lent a helping hand.  He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

Ted was also active in the community as a member of The Westport Y’s Men.

Ted was predeceased by his daughter Deborah. He is survived by his wife Catherine of 70 years, and their children Michael, David, Linda, Thomas, and 8 grandchildren.

A celebration of Ted’s life will be held at the Saugatuck Congregational Church on June 24 (2 p.m.).

Ted Garrity

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A gull enjoys a crabby Burying Hill Beach breakfast, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … in honor of the popular college for the Staples High School Class of 2023:

 (Click here to honor a graduate, through a donation to “06880.” Make sure to let us know who your grad is. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Education, Obituaries, Police, Real estate, Restaurants

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Roundup: Yankee Doodle Fair, Wakeman Farm Stand, Emmy Squared …

Posted on May 23, 2023 | 8 comments

Okay, now we know summer is just around the corner.

The Westport Woman’s Club has announced the dates for the Yankee Doodle Fair.

The decades-in-fact-almost-a-century-old tradition returns Fathers Day weekend. From Thursday, June 15 through Sunday, June 18, the grounds and parking lot on Imperial Avenue will transform from a staid club into a carnival, for “kids” of all ages.

Profits support charities throughout Fairfield County, need-based scholarships to Staples High School students, and the Woman’s Club food closet.

Among the rides: a carousel, Flying Dumbo, Dizzy Dragon, Frog Hopper, Scrambler, Cliff Hanger, Zero Gravity and Expo Wheel. Unlimited ride wristbands make things easy (and inexpensive). 

Entertainment includes rock and country/bluegrass bands. There are raffle prizes and a “take a chance” tent. 

Plus of course a food court with hamburgers, hot dogs, Greek food, Good Humor ice cream, baked goods — and beer and wine.

Last year, proceeds helped the WWC fund $300,000 for a new Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services ambulance.

The greatest show on earth (or at least, in Westport). (Photo/Lee Scharfstein)

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Another sign of summer: The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand opens June 10.

Running every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October 28, the stand features fresh organic produce and flower bouquets from the Farm, WTF honey and logo wear, plus local artisanal products like organic coffee, bread, pastries, extra virgin olive oils, gourmet balsamic vinegars and salsas.

BMW of Darien  is the summer and fall sponsor of the Wakeman Town Farm farm stand. The dealership will also serve as a lead sponsor of WTF’s annual fundraiser, Harvest Fest.

The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand.

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Speaking of food: Westport pizza lovers (perhaps that’s a redundant phrase) salivated at news that Emmy Squared is coming to town.

The Brooklyn-based restaurant is known for its “Detroit-style pizza”: square, crisp bottom, fluffy dough, cheesy crust and sauce strpes.

Their double-stack burger — served on a pretzel bun — was named one of the “20 Best Burgers in New York” by The Infatuation.

There are 8 location in New York, Nashville, Philadelphia, Washington and Louisville. Number 9 will be …

… at the site of the now-closed Amis Trattoria.

That’s the center-of-town location next to Anthropologie, where Church Lane meets the Post Road near Main Street.

No word yet on an opening. The salivation continues.

Pizzas from Emmy Squared.

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gorjana comes to 74 Main Street on June 16.

And if you don’t know — as I did not — what is replacing the Sunglass Hut, read this breathless press release from the Laguna Beach-based jewelry brand (which for some reason does not use a capital letter in its name):

“When gorjana Westport officially opens its doors, shoppers will be immersed in a welcoming coastal bungalow inspired by co-founders Gorjana Reidel and Jason Griffin Reidel’s Southern California roots. Light wood finishes, a crystal quartz chandelier, three sparkling window pendants and a hand-dipped Lauren Williams Tapestry inspired by the iconic Laguna Beach coastline create the perfect backdrop to gorjana’s elevated yet effortless designs.

“Located in a beautifully restored historic building along bustling Main Street, the store will bring together the best of Southern California with the charming history of Westport right in the heart of the coastal city. gorjana Westport is the perfect shopping destination for out-of-towners and locals alike.

This is gorjana’s 49th location, but only the second in Connecticut. The first was in Greenwich.

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Two weeks ago, a college student named Emily posted a TikTok. She wanted to give a hand-painted romantic gift to a classmate she had a crush on, but needed her followers to give her confidence.

@wayn3sw0r1d

both of our love languages are gift giving, and she’s also extremely crafty, so no i dont think this is too much #fyp#foryou#wlw#wlwtiktok help

♬ original sound – wayn3sw0r1d

The video went viral, with over a million views. She got more validation than she ever dreamed of.

Five days later, she shared an update. The woman she gave the gift to loved it.

Now they’re dating.

The woman is Samantha Webster — a 2021 Staples High School graduate.

As for Sam, she texted her parents that she had a new girlfriend.

And, she said, a million people knew before her parents did.

@wayn3sw0r1d

Replying to @Mikala Walker the highly anticipated cupdate: I didnt get a chance to package it up all cute, but I was too excited I couldn’t wait any longer💛🌼#fyp#foryou#wlw#wlwtiktok#dandelions

♬ Dandelions (Originally Performed by Ruth B.) – Piano Karaoke Version – Sing2Piano

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MoCA Westport just hired its first-ever director of performing arts.

Kristen Young knows MoCA well. She’s worked there for 3 years, most recently as its music associate. She created the Music at MoCA concert series, bringing a diverse range of emerging and established artists to the museum.

In her expanded role Young will curate all performing arts experiences, fostering collaborations with music programs across the region, and providing music education opportunities.

Young holds a master’s in violin performance and a graduate certificate in arts management and entrepreneurship from the University of Oklahoma, and a bachelor’s in music management from the University of Delaware.

Kristen Young (Photo/Nina Capozzi Photography)

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Speaking of music: Jazz at the Post favorite Melissa Newman returns this Thursday (May 25; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner begins at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $15 cover; reservations: JazzatthePost@gmail.com).

The Westporter will be joined by guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Bobby Leonard.

Melissa Newman

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Speaking still of the performing arts:

Saugatuck Congregational Church song leader Anthony DeLuco hosts a recital at the church on June 10 (4 p.m.). It’s a fundraiser, to support his attendance at an intensive vocal workshop this summer in Salzburg, Austria.

DeLuco is a young Western Connecticut State University graduate (with many honors and awards). He’s in his second year as a high school teacher.

He’ll play works by Mozart, Schubert, Schumann and more. Donations can be made at the recital or by clicking on this GoFundMe link.

Anthony DeLuco

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It’s not graffiti, at the Post Road/Main Street intersection.

And they’re not hieroglyphics.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

They’re markings for utility workers.

But what do all those symbols, arrows and colors mean?

If you know, please click “Comments” below.

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Understated yet colorful landscaping near Saugatuck Shores stands out in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/David Stone)

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And finally … on this day in 1829, Cyrill Demian was granted an Austrian patent for the accordion.

(“06880” is your home for accordion music — and much more. Please click here to support what we do. Thank you!)

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Roundup: SLOBs, AWARE, ROMEOs …

Posted on May 21, 2023 | 17 comments

Yesterday’s weather drove all but the hardiest yard workers indoors.

In anticipation of today’s sunshine — and, more importantly, to get ready for the 7th annual Dog Festival (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), a crew of SLOBs (Staples Service League of Boys) headed to Winslow Park to help.

“This was Westport at its best,” praises Matthew Mandell, executive director of the Dog Fest sponsor, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

“This was the most challenging prep for the event ever.”

Winslow Park will look great today, as thousands of dogs and their owners enjoy everything from obstacles courses and competitions to a K-9 demonstration and vendors.

And they’ll have a bunch of SLOBs to thank.

SLOBs set up for the Dog Festival. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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Also working outside yesterday: a hardy bunch of Westport Sunrise Rotary volunteers.

As they had promised Westport’s Department of Human Services, they showed up — dressed for the occasion and with their usual boundless energy — to help clean up a local resident’s home. The event was part of the international organization’s annual Day of Service.

They removed high grass, tree limbs, weeds and more from the property of a resident who was unable to do so, or afford to pay for it.

A brief pause from hard work. (Photo courtesy of Rob Hauck and Bruce Fritz)

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The foul weather also forced AWARE’s annual soiree indoors.

Over 100 folks crammed into a private home — rather than the back yard — to celebrate the organization, and its partner.

AWARE stands for Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education. Each year, they work with a different organization, offering financial resources, hands-on and moral support, and friendship.

For the past year, they’ve joined with Her Time. The Bridgeport non-profit assists women affected by incarceration and domestic violence.

The food and drinks were delicious. The fundraising went well. And “AWARE-ness” about Her Time was raised high too.

AWARE members and Her Time representatives spent a “family” evening together. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Also indoors last night: Actress/singer/songwriter (and 2013 Staples High School graduate) Michelle Pauker returned to MoCA Westport. Her Joni Mitchell tribute was part of the “Music at MoCA” series.

Last summer, Michelle performed “Broadway Through The Ages” for a sold-out crowd in the Museum’s gallery.

Her composer/director, Jake Landau, was a Staples classmate. The Juilliard and Oxford graduate is a quickly rising composer and conductor.

Next in the Music at MoCA series: Vanisha Gould, a Jazz at Lincoln Center Emerging Artist (June 10, 7 p.m.). She and her quartet will perform originals and selections from the Great American Songbook. Click here for tickets and more information.

From left: Michelle Pauker, Rachel Hoy and Ravi Campbell, last night at MoCA Westport. (Photo/Lily Hultgren)

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After decades of getting ready for the 7:30 a.m. bell, retired teachers have the luxury of sleeping in.

But former Staples High School educators find a variety of ways to stay active and engaged. They lead full, interestinglives.

Every so often they get together (though a bit later than 7:30) to compare notes, and talk about their lives then and now.

They call themselves ROMEOs: Retired Old Men Eating Out.

How many of these legendary teachers did you recognize?

Here they are (clockwise from lower left): Toby Watson, Al Jolley, Stan Rhodes, Werner Liepolt, Pete Van Hagen, Bruce McFadden, Jim Honeycutt, Ed Bludnicki, John Pepe, Jeff Lea, Jim Wheeler.

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Remember James Comey?

Before he became FBI director (and was fired by President Trump), he was general counsel at Bridgewater Associates, the Westport-based world’s largest hedge fund. He lived here too, in Greens Farms.

Comey’s new gig is mystery writer. He next book — “Central Park West” — will be published May 30.

It takes place at a fiction version of “the world’s largest hedge fund.”

Hmmm … will any other bits of Westport make it into the book?

I’m not buying it to find out.

But if anyone else does, please let me know. (Hat tip: Allen Siegert)


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Drew Angus has spent the last 3 months in Nashville. He’s writing songs, and playing with very talent musicians.

On June 8, the 2007 Staples High School graduate takes the stage at Fairfield Theatre Company, to share stories and songs from his time there.

Drew will be joined by Westonite Jeremy Goldsmith on guitar, Wilton’s Spencer Inch on drums, Nick Trautmann (Darien) on Bass, and non-Nutmegger Adam Bonomo (keyboard). A few special guests may join them.

Click here for tickets. Click here for more on Drew Angus.

Drew Angus

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Yesterday’s “06880” noted that it was the 96th anniversary of the day Charles Lindbergh took off on the first-ever non-stop solo crossing of the Atlantic Ocean.

Naturally, there’s a (sort of) Westport connection. (Beyond the fact — which I forgot to note — that Lindbergh and his family lived for several years on Long Lots Road.)

Longtime resident and avid “06880” reader Matt Murray’s grandmother was a friend of the engine builder/designer Charlie Lawrence.

The day before the flight, he asked Matt’s grandmother, “Do you want to see this fellow take off from Roosevelt Field at 5 a.m. to fly solo across the Atlantic?”

She replied, “Charlie, you’re drunk,” and did not go.

But because she was fluent writing and speaking French, Charlie asked her to write Lindbergh’s letter of introduction for when he landed.

As a thank you, she later received a picture of Lindbergh and Lawrence — and their signatures — just before he flew away.

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There’s always something to see on Soundview Drive.

Tammy Barry took the popular stroll the other day, and spotted these irises. They won’t be there long. Fortunately, she snapped this shot for “Westport .. Naturally.”

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … on this day in 1970 Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young recorded “Ohio.”  Neil Young wrote the song about the murder of 4 people at Kent State University, 2 1/2 weeks earlier.

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( “0688o” — your hyper-local blog — is a non-profit; contributions are tax-deductible. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

 

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Roundup: AI, Anna Diorio, SLOBs …

Posted on May 20, 2023 | 4 comments

Can’t get to the Westport Library this Monday (May 22, 7 p.m.) to hear David Pogue’s “Artificial Intelligence Gets Real!” talk?

Click here for the Zoom link.

Warning: AI is really real. Buckle up!

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You gotta love SLOBs.

Yesterday afternoon, a group of SLOBs — more formally, Staples Service League of Boys — stopped by Westport Fire Department headquarters.

They handed a check for $1,340 to the Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation. The money — proceeds from a fundraising basketball tournament — will help buy smoke alarms for hearing impaired people.

Not too shabby!

SLOBs deliver.

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Speaking of Staples: Anna Diorio has won a national writing award.

The Staples High School senior earned 3rd place in the National Federation of Press Women Education Fund contest. Nearly 2,000 students participated.

Anna qualified by taking first place in the Connecticut contest, for her Inklings opinion piece and May 2022 cover story addressing gender normativity, “The Damaging Effects of: ‘I’m Just teasing.“

Meanwhile, Staples’ broadcast news program “On the Wreckord” took first place in the state, and honorable mention nationally, for “Best Newscast: Radio or Television” for Episode 6. The executive producer was Finnegan Courtney; the team included broadcast directors Diorio and Abby Nevin; anchors Zach Brody, Diorio and Ela Shi; intro producer Diorio, and other students who provided content and theme music.

Joseph DelGobboo and Mary Elizabeth Fulco serve as advisors for Inklings and “On the Wreckord.”

Anna Diorio

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The 10th annual Dale Hopkins Memorial Golf Tourney will be held today, on Armed Forces Day. Fittingly, it is his birthday.

The event — this year, in Bermuda — raises money in honor of the man Carl Addison Swanson calls “everybody’s giant.” The Staples High School Class of 1966 athlete gained All-FCIAC honors in football and basketball. But it was his easy-going, friendly nature that attracted so many people of all ages to him.

After graduation, Dale served 2 tours in Vietnam as a Marine. He then moved into the construction business. he died in 2008.

The Dale Hopkins Memorial Fund, in correlation with the Semper Fi Fund, Annie and John Charitable Foundation and the Swanson Charitable Trust, was formed to assist a homeless classmate. It then assisted other Staples alumni who needed helping hands, and the Semper Fi Fund. 84% goes directly to veterans.

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The New Works Initiative — the Westport Country Playhouse opportunity to see the first public meeting of a new play (and meet young playwrights) — continues June 5.

The play — “Quick Service,” by May Treuhaft-Ali — is about the precariousness of the food service industry. Four employees of a Chicago empanada shop try to make it through the dinner rush as something sinister rises up from the basement, ex-workers enact their revenge, and the oven has a mind of its own.

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

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Punk rock from New York-based Darling blasted in MoCA Westport’s gallery Thursday — a different part of the usual “Cocktails and Conversation” event.

The evening also included a talk by Emann Odufu, curator of MoCA’s “Rainbow in the Dark” exhibition of German contemporary artist Anselm Reyle. Inspired by punk and heavy metal, his color palette utilizes Day-Glo colors as an outgrowth of his fascination with psychedelic and punk aesthetics.

The next “Cocktails and Conversation” (Thursday, May 25, 6 p.m.) features a discussion on design and female entrepreneurship with Barbara Sallick of Waterworks and Shari Lebowitz of Bespoke Designs, moderated by Jen Berniker of Designport. Click here for tickets.

Emann Odufu at MoCA.

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Bob Gill, a longtime Westport resident and Boy Scout leader, died peacefully at home on Monday. He was 96.

After Trenton High School where he won a New Jersey diving championship, Bob enlisted in the Navy. He became a pilot, serving in the Pacific out of Hawaii’s Hickam Field until 1949.

Upon his discharge Bob was hired by American Airlines as a New York-based pilot. He married Olivia, a stewardess for American, in 1953.

In 1963 they and their 5 children moved to Westport. The next year he became a captain at American. A

As a young man Bob had enjoyed his time in the Boy Scouts, earning Eagle Scout His sons joined Troop 36. Bob became scoutmaster, spending much of his free time organizing monthly hikes and campouts throughout Connecticut. He also led the troop to national and international jamborees.

Bob took great pride in seeing his sons earn their Eagle Scout award, as well as grandson Odin, and watching daughter Kirsten participate in Girl Scouts. Even after his children left scouting, he continued on for years with the troop.

He was also an active board member of the Compo Beach Improvement Association, member of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston, and a volunteer Red Cross driver.

Bob also flew for 20 years in the Naval Reserves, retiring as a commander.

After 36 years with American Captain Gill retired in 1987, He continued his love of aviation by piloting his Mooney 252, flying all over the US until he was 87. He was named an FAA Wilbur and Orville Wright “Master Pilot” for 50 years of accident-free flying.

Bob was proud and honored to have his children take up professional flying with the major airlines. His granddaughter Amelia become a flight instructor.

In retirement, Robert and Olivia traveled the world by sea and air. He enjoyed physical fitness training, sailing and skiing. He marched in many Memorial Day parades as a scoutmaster, and in his Navy uniform.

He was a member of the Grey Eagles, a retired American Airlines pilots’ organization, and of the First Church of Christ Scientist Westport.

Bob was predeceased by his brother, sister, and oldest son Gary. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Olivia; their children Robert of Hawaii; Jeffrey (Dana) of Elgin, Illinois; Steven (Sally) of Exton, Pennsylvania; Kirsten (Steve Bartie) of Westport, and 10 grandchildren.

Services will be held tomorrow (Sunday, May 21, Harding Funeral Home; viewing at 10:30 a.m., funeral at noon).

Bob Gill

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Sometimes, “Westport … Naturally” photographers have to work quickly. Birds, bobcats, and most other creatures tend to move rapidly.

Rowene Weems had no such problem Thursday, at the Library Riverwalk. This trio never budged — not before she snapped her shot, or long afterward.

They may still be there.

(Photo/Rowene Weems)

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And finally … on this day in 1927 Charles Lindbergh took off for Paris from Roosevelt Field in Long Island. His Spirit of St. Louis landed in Paris 33 1/2 hours later: the first nonstop solo flight across the Atlantic.

(“06880” will be as lucky as Lindy, if you click here to donate to Westport’s hyper-local blog. Thank you!

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Roundup: Parker Harding Parking, OMG Open Hours, Merit Money …

Posted on May 13, 2023 | 21 comments

The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee continues its work.

One “06880” reader is worried about one aspect of it. She shares this letter, which she sent this week to the group:

“I understand that at this morning’s meeting (which I could not attend) the discussion of losing 44 parking spaces in the Parker Harding lot was discussed.

“I believe this will be detrimental to our stores downtown. There is already a shortage of parking during peak (and many other) hours.

“I believe that the solution of taking a bus from town to Imperial Avenue is not a good solution for shoppers. It is inconvenient for folks who are only in town for a short while.

“I believe — and always have — that the store employees who park all day should use the shuttle service and parking at Imperial Avenue.

“I understand that some store managers felt that their employees ‘wouldn’t do that.’ When I worked in a town like this many years ago with similar parking issues, we were told we would be fired if caught parking in spots reserved for shoppers.

“It’s not a big deal if they are there all day. Managers are being over-dramatic if they did position this in that manner.

“I understand the value of the greening/beautification project, but we need to keep shoppers coming to town and keep our stores in business. It’s all too easy to shop on the internet these days.

“Thank you for your consideration of this concern.”

Up to 44 parking spots may be lost in the Parker Harding Plaza lot, in concepts under consideration by the Downtown Plan Implementation Committe.

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Summer hours begin Monday at Old Mill Grocery & Deli.

The Hillspoint Road spot will be open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, ice cream and much more, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., 7 days a week.

Ready for summer.

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MoCA hosts 2 very different concerts within 48 hours of each other next week.

On Thursday (May 18), New York-based punk band Darling performs a 30-minute set, following a curator talk with Emann Odufu, as part of the “Cocktails & Conversation” series.

Emann is the curator of the current “Rainbow in the Dark” exhibition featuring Anselm Reyle. His practice is inspired by his participation in the punk and heavy metal music movements, and his fascination with psychedelic and punk aesthetics.

Two nights later (Saturday, May 20, 7 p.m.), MoCA welcomes back Staples High School graduate Michelle Pauker. This year, she offers a tribute to Joni Mitchell.

Click here for more information, and tickets.

Michelle Pauker

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Speaking of music: 2018 Staples High grad and Berklee College of Music singer/songwriter Margot Liotta just released her latest single.

It’s available on tons of platforms. Click here for your favorite.

Margot Liotta

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Westport’s 3 National Merit Scholarship $2,500 winners attend 3 different schools.

Congratulations to Staples High School’s Lucia Wang (also the valedictorian), Alexis Bienstock of Westport’s Pierrepont School, and Joy Xu (Hopkins School).

From left: Alexis Bienstock and Lucia Wang.

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The limited edition vinyl LP of “Verso Records: Volume One” has arrived. Now, the Westport Library gets ready to celebrate the “artists, conspirators and community” that helped create the first vinyl record ever recorded, produced and released by a public library.

June 3 marks the official release. It includes 12 live tracks from tri-state area artists. Genres include rock, jazz, hip hop, folk and indie. All were recorded at the Library’s Verso Studios.

A release party is set for that night (7 p.m., Trefz Forum). Four of the bands will perform live.

The release party is free. A $25 ticket option includes a copy of “Verso Records: Volume One” and a free drink. (No record player? A digital copy will be available for $10.)

The album is available for pre-order. Preorders can be picked up at the release party, or will be shipped afterward.

Can’t attend, but want to support and/or listen to the album? Vinyl and digital copies are available via Bandcamp.

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Longtime Westporter and noted civic volunteer Irma Schachter, wife of Joseph Schachter, died Thursday after a short illness. She was 95 years old.

Irma was an early female leader in the male-dominated retail store management field of the 1950s. Her career started after completing the Harvard-Radcliff Business School program with a position at Abraham & Strauss, and continued at G. Fox & Co., Bloomingdale’s, as manager of Burdine’s department store in Miami Beach, and a Lord & Taylor vice president managing 7 New England stores.

She attended what is now Northfield-Mount Hermon School. She was recently honored by the Northfield Alumni Association with its rarely given Lamplighter Award for outstanding service to the school, achieving 100% yearly participation by her entire class in support of the annual fund.

She attended Hartford Junior College, and graduated from Connecticut College.

In Westport, she supported the new Library and Norwalk Hospital

She married Joe Schachter in 1966, after his wife — Irma’s friend Carol Kagan — died at 34. She helped raise Carol and Joe’s 3 young sons, and soon legally adopted them.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by sons Ted (Susan) of Los Angeles, Stephen (Carrie) of Gainesville, Florida, and David (Danny) of Belmont, California; niece Carmen Carrol (Christopher); nephew Andrew Klein, 5 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held tomorrow (Sunday, May 14, 1 p.m., Congregation Beth El, 109 East Avenue, Norwalk). Shiva will be Sunday and Monday at 7 p.m. at 28 Mayflower Parkway, Westport.

Irma and Joe Schachter.

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Peter Green — a highly accomplished stained glass artist also active in several other art forms — died earlier this year at Bridgeport Hospital, of pancreatic cancer. He was 77.

He was the founder in 1971, and co-owner with his wife of 48 years Tina, of Westport’s Renaissance Studio. Click here for a 2012 “06880”story on that artistic journey.

His 5-decade career as a stained glass artist was marked by many commissions and installations in Westport and the tri-state area. He and Tina taught stained glass classes at their studio and in area adult education programs.

After 30 years on Saugatuck Avenue, the studio moved in 2003 to the Greens’ home on Imperial Avenue. Tina continues to operate it.

Peter designed and installed stained glass windows and panels in hundreds of homes, restaurants and other businesses, and for religious institutions. His Installations include Temple Israel in Westport, St. Francis of Assisi Church in Weston, and St. Joseph’s Church in Stratford.

A member of the Stained Glass Association of America, he was also a successful woodturner, photographer and painter. He was a past president of the Nutmeg Woodturners at the Brookfield Craft Center. His unique works graced the covers of Wood Turning and Stained Glass magazines.

Peter’s first career was in music. After graduating from Adelphi University in 1968, he played guitar in The Villagers folk group. They opened for Simon and Garfunkel in the mid-’60s at Adelphi. He played for the rest of his life for family and friends.

An Army Reserve veteran, he was also an avid sailor, surfer, kayaker and cyclist. He swam regularly at the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

Peter frequently researched, read and combed the recorded music collection at his beloved Westport Library.

Survivors in addition to his wife include his children, Andrew of Westport and Charlotte of Greenwich; his sister Susan Behan of Longboat Key, Florida; his brother Bob Green of Kapaa, Hawaii; his mother-in-law Anna Godick of Westport, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A private memorial celebration of his life is planned for later this year. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his memory be made to The Westport Library or the American Cancer Society.

Peter Green

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Burying Hill Beach is Johanna Keyser Rossi’s happy place.

And here — happily — is her “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … happy 73rd birthday to Stevie Wonder.

There are way too many great songs to pick from. Here are 5 from his now-overlooked, but very productive, mid-1960s/early-1970s years:

(If you enjoy our daily “06880” music selections, it would be “wonder”-ful to help support the blog. Please click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: Budget, Westport10, Gravity …

Posted on May 2, 2023 | 2 comments

Last night, Westport did easily something the US Congress struggles with.

It passed a budget.

The Representative Town Meeting approved the town side of spending for 2023-24: $81.3 million.

The Board of Education Budget — approximately $152 million — will be debated tonight (7:30 p.m., Town Hall). If approval does not come tonight, a second meeting could be held tomorrow, at the same time and place.

The town budget passed unanimously. It included the Transit District’s full budget of $291,231, which was approved 33-1 after having been lowered by the Board of Finance to eliminate Wheels2U service. Louis Mall voted nay, while Peter Gold — who also serves as the Transit Director director — abstained.

Gold said he and his colleagues received over 325 letters in support of restoration. He said, “Their emails made it clear just how much the Wheels2U service means to all segments of the Westport population, and to those who commute to work in Westport.”

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The other day, News12 reported on Westport10 — the social and networking group of Black men and their families, whose mission is to make Westport a more diverse and welcoming town.

Yesterday, they aired a second segment. This one focuses on founder Jay Norris, and several other members. It’s a great look at another important slice of Westport life. Click here to see.

Westport10, on the News12 website.

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Speaking of Jay Norris:

He’s helping organize tonight’s Common Ground session at the Westport Library (Tuesday, 7 p.m.).

The event includes a conversation with former Congressman Roy Blunt — a Missouri Republican known for his bipartisan work — and Steve Parrish, whose consulting firm specializes in corporate social responsibility and public affairs.

The aim of the initiative is to host positive, productive conversations on how we work together as a civil society, encouraging respectful, constructive dialogue while tackling challenging, controversial issues.

The Library leads the effort, with community leaders representing a wide array of constituents and views. Click here for more information.

Senator Roy Blunt

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As Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito prepare to sell their beloved Beechwood estate, they’re planning one last event.

They’re partnering with realtor Cyd Hamer to give prospective buyers a very cool look inside. A “Spring Soirée” this Sunday (May 7, 3 to 6 p.m.) includes 3 mini-concerts by Frederic, the internationally renowned pianist.

Each will be followed by a house tour of secret spaces and buildings, with Champagne and sweet bites.

Space is limited; all guests must click here to register.

Beechwood House, with its magnificent copper beech tree.

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“Einstein’s Ears: The New Astronomy of Gravitational Waves” is the topic of the next Westport Astronomical Society webinar.

Scott Hughes, associate professor of physicals at the Massachusetts Institute of Technbology, talks about the quest for gravitational waves, and all kinds of related stuff.

It’s May 16 (8 p.m.). Click here for the Zoom link; click here to watch on YouTube.

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Save the date: MoCA Westport’s annual arts celebration/fundraiser “The Surrealist Soirée: A Bash Beyond Reality” is set for September 30.

Tickets start at $325 per person. Click here for more information.

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This bobcat sits serenely for his “Westport … Naturally” close-up.

(Photo/Sean Hogan)

But there was plenty of action nearby. Photographer Sean Hogan spotted this guy on Bay Street — right near the heart of downtown.

Or course, he has every right to be there. His crew was here long before ours.

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And finally … in honor of the upcoming Westport Astronomical Society lecture:

 (“06880” covers the arts, the sciences, the environment, and anything else with any Westport connection. Please click here to contribute — and thank you!)

 

 

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Roundup: Wilton Road, Weston History, “06880” Book Launch …

Posted on April 26, 2023 | 12 comments

The latest Westport clear-cutting project took some Westporters by surprise,

In fact, it’s part of an 8-30g project approved before the moratorium took effect.

122 Wilton Road — the 1.16-acre parcel bordered by Wilton Road, Kings Highway North, the Saugatuck River and Taylortown Salt Marsh — will be the site of a 3-story, 19-unit,  20,078-square foot apartment complex..

In 2018, the state Appellate Court denied a plan by Garden Homes of Stamford to build a 7-story, 48-unit apartment complex.

The developer returned with the smaller, 19-unit proposal, which included an 8-30g component.

Again the P&Z rejected the request. The scale was still too big; there were still traffic and fire safety issues.

But Garden Homes appealed, and a court overruled the P&Z. According to 8-30g, affordability trumps traffic and safety concerns.

COVID pushed back the schedule. But eventually the Conservation Department, Water Pollution Control Facility and Building Department issued permits.

This was the scene Monday:

And yesterday:

(Photo/Chris Tait)

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Bill “Mr. Memorial Day Parade” Vornkahl notes that many organizations have not yet replied to invitations to participate in the Memorial Day parade.

So, organizations: If you want to be in Westport’s best parade of the year, contact Jamie Boone at the Westport Parks & Recreation Department: jboone@westportct.gov; 203-341-5091.

Don’t be left out of the Memorial Day parade!  (Photo/Jodi Harris)

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MoCA’s Spring Thursday evening “Cocktails and Conversation” series has begun. It features compelling speakers, within the context of MoCA’s current exhibition.

The current show — “Rainbow in the Dark,” with works by German contemporary artist Anselm Reyle — runs through May 28.

“Cocktails and Conversation” includes:

April 27 (6 p.m.), “Creativity and Climate Action”: 4 Bridgeport artists show (and offer for sale) the projects they’ve created.

May 4 (5 p.m.), “The Wellness of Style” with Gayle Perry, exploring “the noise that our clothes and spaces create for us, with 15-minute style sessions.

May 11 (6 p.m.), Iraqi multi-instrumentalist Ameen Mokdad.

May 18 (6 p.m.), Conversation with “Rainbow in the Dark” curator Emann Odufu, followed by a concert by rock band Darling.

May 25 (6 p.m.), Barbara Sallick of Waterworks and Shari Lebowitz of Bespoke Designs on female entrepreneurship, home design trends, and the blending of function and style.

Most events are free for MoCA members, $10 for non-members. For more information click here, or call 203-222-7070.

Emann Odufu

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Time for a church barn dance!

‘The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport sponsors its 4th one on Saturday, April 29 (5 to 9 p.m.). Billy Fischer is the caller, accompanied by Wry Bred.

All ages are invited. There’s pizza and cake too. Donations ($5 per person, $15 per family) are requested. Questions? Call 203-227-7205, ext. 10. Swing your partner ’round!

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Speaking of concerts: The Weston History & Culture Center’s outdoor summer concert series “Music at the Barn” returns for its 8th season. Concerts are set for June 4 and June 25, July 9 and July 23, and September 10.

Doors open at 5 p.m. for food, history, crafts and fun. Music starts at 5:30 p.m., and ends at 7.

The bands are from throughout Fairfield County. Kids will enjoy the crafting table, historic games and a walk through the sculpture garden. Adults can explore history with tours of the Coley House and “Penned, Painted & Sculpted: Weston Artists 1900 – 1965” exhibit.

Music at the Weston Historical Society.

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Reminder: The launch party for “Pick of the Pics” — the “06880” book highlighting over 100 of our blog’s best Pics of the Day — is this Sunday (April 30, 2 to 4 p.m., Savvy + Grace, 146 Main Street).

Books will be available for purchase at a special price of $20 (regular Amazon price: $24.95).

I’ll sign copies; so will Lyah Muktavaram, my “06880” intern who did 99% of the work on it.

Photographers featured in the book can pick up a free book at the launch party too.

Can’t wait? Click here to order!

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Totally random, but interesting:

Alert reader Jim McKay writes: “In 1982, when the Saugatuck train station rain shelters were installed, the Ukrainian flag colors were used. Long before Ukrainian independence.”

(Photo/Jim McKay)

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Last week, Amy Schneider captured — on camera, that is — today’s “Westport … Naturally feature: a snowy egret, perched over the Saugatuck River.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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And fiinally ,,, Harry Belafonte, whose life was defined as much by his work on civil rights as by his popularizing of calypso music in the pop realm, died yesterday in New York of congestive heart failure. He was 96.

Belafonte attended fundraisers here, during the civil rights movement in the 1960s. Click here for a full obituary of this remarkable man.

(If you enjoy our daily Roundups, please support “06880.” Just click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: Thanks To First Responders; Earth Day Clean-ups …

Posted on April 23, 2023 | 9 comments

On Thursday I posted a video that included a driver heading south on North Avenue, blasting right through the stop sign at Cross Highway.

That evening — just a few hours later — someone did it again.

This time, there was someone else at the intersection.

Amy Lowey Horowitz writes:

“Around 6 p.m.,  I was driving east on Cross Highway. A driver coming south on North Avenue ran the stop sign at high speed, and hit the front of my car. My vehicle turned 90 degrees, ending up also facing south on North Avenue.

“The other driver pulled off, and left.

“I called the police. In what seemed like an instant firefighters, police and ambulance were there, showing me so much kindness and concern.

“I was seriously shaken up, shocked, confused and not even able to answer all their questions. The accident happened so fast.

“I hope to use ‘06880’ to thank all the people who showed up and helped me navigate those first few moments. I was too shocked to learn names. I want to thank all the first responders who showed up, and did more than just their jobs last night.

“I’m fine this morning, grateful for that, as well as the care and treatment that I received.

” also hope that someone witnessed the accident is willing to share what they saw. There were plenty of people driving past right after impact. It is likely that someone may have seen the other car go through the intersection right before he hit me.”

Any witnesses should call the Westport Police: 203-341-6000.

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It was a big Earth Day celebration yesterday downtown. The Westport Downtown Association partnered with Staples’ Service League of Boys (SLOBs) to hit the streets for a cleanup.

They started at Parker Harding Plaza, then headed down Main Street to Church Lane and Elm Street, with a side visit to the Baldwin parking lot.

It’s all bagged up. Downtown looks fresh, nice, and ready for spring.

SLOBs and friends clean up downtown. (Photo/Lee Shufro)

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SLOBs were also at work at the Long Lots preserve.

Director Lou Weinberg reports: “They killed it.”

For more information on this great project next to the Westport Community Gardens, click here.

SLOBs at the Long Lots preserve (from left): Charles Hallett, Cormac Mulvey, Zach Beebe, Dylan Hoke. (Photo/Mike Beebe)

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AND … this was the scene at the very trash-filled Elaine Road site. A large crew picked up plenty of garbage, from the boat launch underneath I-95 all the way to Compo Road South.

RTM member Andrew Colabella helped organize the effort, which included 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, town employees and SLOBs.

Looks like they even found an old highway sign among the mess.

(Photo courtesy Town of Westport)

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The Democratic Women of Westport also celebrated Earth Day yesterday, at athletic fields around town.

Informational tables at “Sustainability on the Sidelines” offered info on small steps families can take to reduce their sports footprint (For xample: carpooling, no idling, and participating in a uniform exchange).

They also gave away Gatorade powders to encourage reusable bottles instead of single use plastic.

Owen Hill had a table too, at the Democratic Women of Westport’s “Sustainability on the Sidelines” Earth Day event.

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Individuals were out in force too.

Below: Rindy Higgins, cleaning up Canal Beach in her Saugatuck Shores neighborhood.

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On Friday Jamie Walsh — chair of the Westport Shellfish Commission and his wife Grayson Braun joined former chair Heather Williams and her husband Colin Walklet.

For several hours, they did their biannual cleanup around Hendrick’s Point — the beautiful spot next to the Longshore golf driving range.

Jamie says: “Among the wide array of beer, soda bottles and cans; remnants of food packaging; bits of styrofoam and over 200 golf balls that cleared the netting that was recently repaired, the most concerning litter was the many bundles of fishing line randomly discarded in the brush.

“I’ve been part of the cleanup for a number of years, but this was the worst. We hauled out 6 large trash bags full of garbage, and enough fishing line to fill half a bag. Most of it had to be cut out of the brush.

“Improper disposal of fishing line creates a huge problem. Birds and small animals get hung up in it. Fishing line disposed on the shoreline can float off and take up to 600 years to decompose, but it generally degrades into micro-plastics that are toxic and dangerous to all marine life. Ultimately, this winds up in the food chain.

“It is our collective responsibility to be stewards of the land and waters, and dispose of all garbage and plastic items such as fishing line responsibly. I urge people to help by picking up stray fishing line they see at the water’s edge. Help us to keep our precious shorelines as pristine as possible.

“We have that responsibility to our natural resources — not just on Earth Day, but every day.”

Clearing fishing lines from the Hendrick’s Point brush.

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In non-Earth Day news, Challenger baseball — the Westport Little League program for youngsters with disabilities — celebrated its 10th anniversary yesterday.

24 players and 16 buddies — plus a cake — marked the memorable occasion.

Challenger players and buddies get ready to play ball.

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MoCA Westport was packed Friday night for a performance by jazz saxophonist Eddie Barbash. He’s a founding member of the house band for “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.” The concert was part of the “Rainbow in the Dark” exhibition.

Next up on the Music at MoCA schedule: This Friday (April 28, 7 p.m.): The Cuatro Puntos Ensemble, pianist Irena Portenko, violinist Kristen Young and musicians from Norwalk Youth Symphony present chamber music for strings by contemporary composers living in Ukraine, including newly commissioned pieces from Odessa and Kyiv. Click here for more details.

Eddie Barbash at MoCA. (Photo/Kristen Young)

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A Saugatuck resident writes:

“I’m concerned about an older man who rides his bike at twilight or early dark near the Saugatuck/Norwalk line.

“He rides erratically, crossing the road from one side to the other, stopping occasionally. He wears a drab raincoat and is nearly invisible in the low light. His bicycle has no reflective devices.

“Late commuters speed home along Saugatuck Avenue, and I fear for this fellow’s life.

“I hesitate to notify the police since the bicycle may be his only transportation. I want to warn readers to be careful in this area.”

Be careful out there!

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Wendy Crowther recently had a close encounter with nature. The result is today’s captivating “Westport … Naturally” photo.

She writes: “A pair of barred owls hung out in the evergreen trees around my yard today. They have a classic-sounding hoot often described as if they’re asking, ‘Who cooks for you, who cooks for you all?’

“As dusk neared, this one flew onto the peak of my garage, waiting patiently for something delicious to scurry by below. It was the perfect pose for a photo. He/she eventually flew off without dinner.”

(Photo/Wendy Crowther)

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And finally … today is the birthday of the amazing Roy Orbison. He died far too young of heart failure in 1988. He was just 52.

The man Elvis Presley called “the greatest singer in the world” had a 4-octave range, earning him the nickname “the Caruso of Rock.”

In fact, music scholars say, Orbison and Enrico Caruso were the only 20th century tenors capable of hitting E over high C.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We’re also a non-profit, so contributions are tax-deductible. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

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