Tag Archives: Neighborhood Studios

Roundup: Post Office Thefts, Hamlet Meeting, Arts News …

Posted on March 21, 2025 | 9 comments

For the past couple of years, Westport has suffered thefts from private mailboxes. Checks are stolen, altered and cashed.

Amazingly, thieves also hit the big blue drop box outside Westport’s main post office in Playhouse Square.

Last Friday night — in a stupendously surprising and brazen move — the mail drop inside the post office was victimized. (The outside box was too).

Bad guys apparently “fish” for mail through the small slot. The staff is gone at night, but the front part of the building is open.

Westport’s postal clerks (who are perhaps the friendliest and most helpful in the entire US Postal Service) advise handing mail — particularly checks — directly to them.

Even the mail slot on the left is no longer safe (after hours).

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The Planning & Zoning Commission meets next Thursday (March 27, 6 p.m., Zoom).

They’ll continue to discuss a request for special permit/coastal site plan approval for The Hamlet at Saugatuck: the mix of hotel, residential and non-residential uses in the area bordered by Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place, Franklin Street and Charles Street.


Part of the Hamlet at Saugatuck plan: a market, adjacent to Luciano Park, where boats are now stored in a private parking lot.

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For nearly 50 years, Neighborhood Studios has helped underserved children and those with special needs throughout Fairfield County.

Programs include an art institute for children ages 4-12; a dance academy for those as young as 3; theater for 6-12-year-olds; a Saturday studio; a music school, and a conservatory for teenagers serious about the visual arts, media, music, theater and dance. It’s hands-on, dynamic, fun. Neighborhood Studios offers hope, and changes lives.

Program graduates have gone on to attend colleges like Yale, the University of Connecticut, Howard University, Art Institute, Parsons School of Design, the New School, and Berklee College of Music. Some have become music or art teachers — and Broadway performers.

(That’s an added bonus. The goal of Neighborhood Studios is not to produce lifelong artists. It’s to use the arts to help each child achieve his or her potential — and, hopefully, nurture a lifelong love of the arts.)

It’s a small operation, with a big mission. And some of Neighborhood Studios’ driving forces are Westporters. Board members include Rita Appel, Bob Jacobs and Laurie Gross.

Laurie and Jeff Gross, their son Zack and his wife Sheera, Jim and Lizzie Wolf, Tauck and Brigade Capital Management are sponsors of a very cool “Dueling Pianos” fundraiser.

The April 24 event (7 p.m., Park City Music Hall, Black Rock) includes (or course) music — with a twist. Attendees can request favorite songs, then sing and dance along. There’s plenty of food and drinks, too. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking of the arts: Cabaret Olé — the fundraiser for the Staples High School Orphenians and VOCES8 Foundation that includes entertainment, Spanish tapas, a raffle and a silent auction — just got even better.

A VIP Flash Sale ticket — now just $170 — includes special seating, and a meet-and-greet (with photos) with “Wicked” star Mary Kate Morrissey, “Wicked” music director Dan Micciche, and more.

The raffle includes up to 10 nights at the Pineapple Beach Club in Antigua, theater tickets, restaurant gift cards and more. The silent auction features over 80 experiences and items. Bidding begins at noon on March 30; click here.

Cabaret Olé is March 30 (6 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church). Preferred tickets are $150; general admission is $125. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking (still) of entertanment: VersoFest has added another big name to next month’s music-and-more Westport Library event: 3-time Grammy Award-winning hip hop artist and co-founder of The Roots, Black Thought.

A conversation with “one of the best lyricists in hip hop history” and community leader June Archer is set for April 5 (4 p.m.; free).

Copies of Black Thought’s memoir, “The Upcycled Self: A Memoir on the Art of Becoming Who We Are,” will be for sale, with the author signing copies after the talk.

Black Thought and Questlove founded The Roots in 1987. From humble beginnings performing on Philadelphia street corners to commercial success, they expanded their reach as the house band for Jimmy Fallon, on “Late Night” and “The Tonight Show.”

Click here for more information on Black Thought. Click here for full details on VersoFest ’25.

Black Thought

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And more about music: Voices Café often attracts interesting artists, from up and down the East Coast.

On April 5, one of them is a homegrown talent.

In fact, very talented.

Dustin Lowman — a 2011 Staples High School graduate, now making his name as a New York-based singer/songwriter — opens for Lucy Kaplansky.

Dustin says: “In the years since leaving Westport, I’ve forged an unconventional path, using the tools that growing up there afforded me.

Livingston Taylor says,“Dustin is on the path of a terrific musical career. His musical voice is waiting to be heard by those hungry for the next real thing.”

Kaplansky has gained a fervid following over 3 decades for her folk-inflected singing and songwriting.

Click here for tickets about the show at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport, and more information.

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Hey, Staples High School Class of 1985: Your 40th (!) reunion is coming!

Organizers have planned a welcome gathering on July 18 at the Black Duck, followed by a July 19 dinner at Saugatuck Harbor Yacht Club, and brunch at Compo the next morning.

Email stapleshs1985@gmail.com for more information, or click here to sign up.

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Female high school seniors who plan to continue their education at a college or vocational school can apply for a $3,000 Philanthropic Educational Organization scholarship.

Criteria include academic success, community service and financial need. For more information click here, or email pal9948@aol.com.

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Staples graduate and prolific author Carl Addison Swanson has a new book out. It’s called “Thank You For Your Service!”

The author says: “The beloved boat bum Hush McCormick is back on center stage as he is hired by a veteran’s wife to get her husband out of an immigrant detention center in Buffalo.

“While the vet in question served his country honorably in Iraq with 2 deployments, he is not a naturalized citizen, and subject to deportation if he commits 3 misdemeanors or 1 felony. Follow Hush and his small band of Marines who try the impossible: help a fellow Marine get out of federal prison.”

Click here to order, and for more information.

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For today’s “Westport …. Naturally” feature, we head to Nash’s Pond.

And a fine feathered photo by Dan Nash.

(Photo/Dan Nash)

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And finally … hey, didn’t Bob Dylan kind of predict the mail drop thefts (story above) in this song?

(Whether you’re in Westport, Mobile, Memphis — or anywhere else in the world — if you enjoy “06880,” we hope you support our work. As Dylan says; “I want you.” Please click here to donate. Thanks!)

9 Comments

Posted in Arts, Library, Local politics, Real estate, Saugatuck, Staples HS

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Roundup: Santa Run, Downtown Trees, Staples Football …

Posted on November 29, 2023 | 2 comments

It’s a Christmas miracle!

Lucia Palmieri — who every year cooks, then gives away, a whole bunch of Thanksgiving dinners — is also bringing Santa Claus to her home.

And she’s inviting Westport kids and parents, too.

The Westport Uniformed Firefighters Charitable Foundation already sponsors “Santa” runs, complete with a fire truck. But spots are limited, and not every parent who wanted to could sign up.

So on Friday, December 8, Santa (and the fire truck) will come to Lucia’s house, at 4 Narrow Rocks Road.

The Big Guy will hand presents to children. But first (kids — stop reading here!) — their parents need to make a minimum $35 donation to the Firefighters Foundation. Click here to do that.

Parents also must drop off a wrapped gift for their child (kids — you should not be reading this!) at Lucia’s house before the event.

Lucia will also provide a fire and hot chocolate. She may even lead a few carols.

And — spoiler alert — she is not just a very generous woman. Lucia is also a professional opera singer, with gigs at Carnegie Hall and the US Open, and on ESPN, Bravo, ABC and NBC.

To RSVP, and for questions, email luciapalmieri@yahoo.com or call 917-578-8443. (Hat tip: Katherine Calise)

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Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley and his SCA team picked up 3 Christmas trees this week, from Izz0 & Son Country Gardens.

Each is 12 feet tall.

They’ll go up around downtown tomorrow — just in time for Saturday’s Holiday Stoll (5 to 7 p.m.; co-sponsored by the WDA and “06880”).

Click here for Stroll details. Meanwhile, check out these beauties:

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Also, just in time for the holidays, a shop has popped up in Westport.

West | Out East — with locations in New York City, East Hampton and Miami — is now open at 1 Main Street. That’s near the intersection of Post Road East — the previous site of POP’Tart  gallery.

This is a bigger space than their previous location, 9 Riverside Avenue.

Modular products are “versatile in style and function, accentuated by customizable millwork.” The collection includes indoor and outdoor furniture, decorative and architectural lighting, closets, storage systems, kitchens, bath fixtures, rugs and accessories.

PS: West | Out East is part of the “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll. They offer prosecco, presents and a raffle to win home décor accessories.

West | Out East pop-up, at 1 Main Street.

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Congratulations to the Staples football team!

Led by quarterback Caleb Smith and the offensive line, they rallied from a 9-6 halftime deficit to nip Fairfield Prep 13-12, in last night’s state “LL” (extra large schools) quarterfinal game.

The Wreckers are seeded first; the Jesuits were 8th. Prep ended the Westporters’ season last year, with a 23-22 state playoff win.

The victory earns Staples a home semifinal contest against #5 Southington, at 12:30 p.m. this Sunday. Staples beat the upstaters 34-27 earlier this year.

Quarterback Caleb Smith. (Photo/John Nash for The Ruden Report)

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Neighborhood Studios — the multi-discipline, multi-dimensional Bridgeport arts program supported by many Westporters —  and the Curtis Summer Camp Fund have partnered on a very cool benefit concert.

With very cool local musicians.

“Give Kids a Chance!” (December 5, Fairfield Theatre Company; reception at 6 p.m, concert at 7 p.m.) features great local talent. They’re backed by the Zambonis: the greatest (and only) hockey rock band on the planet.

Many musicians’ names are familiar to Westporters: Jim Francis, Jeffrey and Laurie Gross, Dave Hart, Stanton Lesser, Rob Morton, Leila Shields, Rick Smilow and 5th State Band. They’re joined by students and alumni of the Neighborhood Studios Contemporary & Jazz Ensemble.

Neighborhood Studios serves more than 1,000 Bridgeport youth, ages 3 to 19, with after-school programs and summer camps. It transforms lives through arts education, and empowers youngsters to make differences in their community.

The Curtis Summer Camp Fund changes lives by sending Bridgeport youths to sleepaway camp.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Dr. Robert Altbaum is now retired. But he’s still helping Westporters live healthy lives.

On Tuesday, he brought 40 years of experience to the Y’s Women meeting. Altbaum discussed osteoporosis — its causes, dangers, and how to live with it.

It was an important topic. Osteoporosis predominantly affects women over 50.  30% of women over 65 have the disease; only 4% of men do.

Altbaum said that strong bones are the key to osteoporosis prevention. He recommends weight-bearing exercises like walking, running or the elliptical; vitamin D; reduced alcohol consumption, and no smoking.

He also discussed ways to reduce falls, including night lights, getting rid of throw rugs, clearing clutter, a chair or grab bars in the shower, and always using stair rails.

Dr. Robert Altbaum, at yesterday’s Y’s Women meeting.

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Tomorrow’s Jazz at the Post features The Caribbean Jazz Connection (Thursday, November 30, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; dinner at 7 p.m.; $15 music charge).

Led by drummer Jim Royle, who crosses jazz and Caribbean Latin styles, it features steel pan player Bryan Garbe, an internationally acclaimed percussionist who grew up in Fairfield.

The band also includes bassist John Mobilio and pianist David Childs.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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“Lux Freer” — the award-winning short film shot and produced in Westport last year — screens this Sunday at the Dances With Films festival in New York.

Show time is 2 p.m., at Regal Union Square.

It was the first film directed by actress (and Staples High School graduate) Cynthia Gibb, known for her on-screen work in “Gypsy,” “Fame” and “Youngblood.”

“Lux Freer” won Best USA Film, and Gibb was named Best First-Time Director, at the New York  Cinematography Awards. It was also honored as Outstanding Narrative Short at the Ridgefield Independent Film Festival). Gibb’s film also earned Honorable Mention in the Best LGBTQ Short Film category at Los Angeles’ Indie Short Fest.

The lead, Echo Bodell, will attend the New York showing, along with Gibb, writer Jill Johnson Mann and other cast members, including Staples senior Cameron Mann (who played the killer in HBO’s “Mare of Easttown.”

Click here for tickets.

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Thanksgiving is nearly a week in the rear view mirror. Most turkeys are gone — eaten (including leftovers), the carcasses disposed of.

Except for this one.

Judy Auber Jahnel spotted it in an usual spot: the Riverwalk, outside the Westport Library and smack in the middle of downtown.

There must be a back story.

If you know what it is, click “Comments” below.

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In all his decades in Westport, John Kantor says, he never saw a bobcat around Grove Point.

Until this one visited his garden yesterday afternoon.

It doesn’t get more “Westport … Naturally” than this.

(Photo/John Kantor)

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And finally … Jean Knight — whose only hit (“Mr. Big Stuff”) lives on more than 50 years after its release — died last week in Florida. She was 80.

It was nominated for a 1971 Grammy Award nomination for best female R&B vocal performance (Aretha Franklin won for “Bridge Over Troubled Water”), and best R&B song (Bill Withers won for “Ain’t No Sunshine”).

Click here for a full obituary.

(Hey, Mr. Big Stuff! Please consider a donation to “06880.” It’s tax-deductible, too. Just click here. Thank you, sir!)

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Posted in Arts, Children, Sports

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Roundup: AquaFit, Crabbing, River of Roses …

Posted on September 27, 2023 | 5 comments

Westport has been the setting for many films.

But forget “The Gray Flannel Suit,” “The Swimmer” and “The Stepford Wives.”

My favorite is “Below Surface.”

The 20-minute documentary focuses on an unlikely subject: the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s AquaFit program.

Yet thanks to Patty Kondub — the energetic, creative and much-loved instructor who is the heart and soul of both the program and the film — the camaraderie, joy and, yes, life-saving experience that is AquaFit come vividly to life.

Dick Rauh — 96 years young — describes what the class has done for him. So do others, of many ages and from 4 continents. Patty melds them all into a young-feeling, tight-knit group that fulfills the Y’s dual mission of promoting healthy living and creating community.

AquaFit helped Patty herself through a dark time of her life, which she describes movingly.

But “Below Surface” is bright and alive — just like those morning classes. The cinematography makes it shine.

The film has been screened at festivals around the country, and won the “Next Great Filmmaker Award” at the Berkshires International Film Festival. It will be shown October 19 (noon, New Haven Public Library) at the New Haven Documentary Film Festival.

Now through October 1, you can watch it for free, thanks to the virtual World Peace Film Festival. Just click here.

It will be the most uplifting 19 minutes of your week.

(For the “06880” back story on “Below Surface,” click here.)

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The start of tomorrow’s Long Lots School Building Committee meeting has been changed.

The new time is 6 p.m. (it was originally 6:30). That’s Thursday, September 28, in Town Hall Room 201/201A.

It’s a 6 p.m. start tomorrow for the Long Lots School Building Committee.

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Conservation Director Colin Kelly has responded to complaints about crabbing at Sherwood Mill Pond. He says:

“The Westport Conservation Department reminds Westport residents that the act of crabbing is allowed and is covered by Connecticut Department of Engergy and Environmental Protection fishing regulations.

“People have the legal right to access state waters and fish for Blue Crab. The taking of Blue Crab requires no license, and there is no daily limit during the open season from May1 – November 30. The Conservation Office does not regulate the taking of crabs from the pond. The Sherwood Mill Pond Advisory Committee and the Shellfish Commission do not have authority to restrict the crabbing either.

“To clarify, this does not mean the Town has ignored the public requests for checking the crabbing. In fact, the Westport Police Department have conducted more than 50 patrols of Sherwood Mill Pond this summer. They have interacted with the individuals who are crabbing, they have actively provided education, and they have checked the catches to ensure proper measurements are being followed.

“The officers have used Infrared cameras to confirm that individuals were taking crabs and that any clams they have seen were dumped. They have worked individually and in conjunction with CT DEEP Encon Police. Officers have been proactive in responding to calls and will continue to provide our Town with this response.

“We want to inform the public that over 70 parking tickets have been issued along Hillspoint Road and the Old Mill parking lot in the last few weeks. One night alone had over 30 parking tickets issued. The Police Department will continue their oversight, including adding additional tactics in the future, to ensure that the laws are followed.”

Crabbing at Sherwood Mill Pond.

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For several years, Saugatuck Rowing Club has commemorated loved ones lost to breast cancer — and raised funds for survivors — by turning the Saugatuck River pink.

Literally.

Names are read aloud, and rose petals scattered into the Saugatuck River. They’re then swept out to sea.

This year’s “River of Roses” charity soirée is set for Sunday (October 1, 1 to 4 p.m.; ceremony at 3).

The $75 ticket includes  (of course) rosé cocktails, raw bar, charcuterie, lobster and pumpkin bisque, clam chowder, apple crisp, Donut Crazy and a cash bar, plus live music by Fake ID.

Proceeds support SurviveOAR, the empowering, supportive community that provides mental, physical and emotional healing to women with breast cancer after traditional treatment ends.

Six members will be compete in Head of the Charles race next month.

Click here for tickets, or to buy roses ($25 each). Click below, for highlights of the 2019 event.

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Parents of children with special needs have plenty to think about.

Including finances.

Westporter Kimberly Greenberg — a Morgan Stanley vice president — leads a free breakfast seminar for parents and caregivers, called “Protecting the Future for Your Child With Special Needs.”

Financial experts will share first-hand experiences on October 3 (9:30 a.m., STAR, 182 Wolfpit Avenue, Norwalk_. Tours of the renovated STAR center, including the new assistive technology lab and lending library, are also available.

To reserve a spot, or for more information, email ahenry@starct.org.

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This event has flown under the radar. But it’s an important one.

Tomorrow (Thursday, September 28, 10 a.m., Westport Library), Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, state Commissioner of Veterans Affairs Ronald Welch and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will recognize the service of Westport veterans who served during the Vietnam War era.

There will be a color guard, national anthem, and more.

Staples High School graduate Tim Barmmer was killed in Vietnam. He is memorialized at Veterans Green, across from Town Hall.

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Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service’s Jenna Baumblatt has been named Connecticut’s 2023 EMS Youth Corps Member of the Year.

The 18-year-old joined WVEMS as an Emergency Medical Responder 4 years ago, and is now an Emergency Medical Technician. She also serves on the WVEMS board of directors.

EMS runs deep in her family. Her dad Rick is a WVEMS staff paramedic; her mom Lynn is a paramedic at Norwalk Hospital EMS, and her brother James is an EMT in Bridgeport.

WVEMS president Michael Burns calls Jenna “an amazing person and caregiver who maintains multiple jobs, in addition to her volunteer service. She is an amazing asset!”

Jenna Baumblatt

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Pam Rouleau is running a fundraiser with Nuvance Health for the Integrative Medicine Department at the Smilow Breast Cancer Center.

She photographed 13 people who have battled cancer — or still are — and depicted them along with their stories of survivorship.

Several members of the Saugatuck Rowing Club’s “SurviveOARS” team are included. Rouleau is a Survive-OARS rower too.

A reception is set for October 3, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the State Capitol in Hartford. It will then be on view through October 30. Click here for details.

Kimberly Wilson, Westport resident and Saugatuck SurviveOARS member.

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Grammy Award-winning pianist Dave Kikoski headlines tomorrow’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, September 28, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399).

Kikoski is known for his adept post-bop style and spontaneous swinging play. He has worked with artists like Roy Haynes, Joe Henderson, Ron Carter, Al Foster, Bob Berg, Michael and Randy Brecker, Chris Potter and others.

He’ll be joined by bassist Yuriy Galkin, drummer Vinnie Sperazza and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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Enjoy a trivia night — virtually, and for a great cause.

Tomorrow (Thursday, September 28, 7 p.m.), Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County hosts “Quiz for a Cause.” All proceeds support arts education for children, primarily those with special needs.

First prize is 2 round trip airline tickets, from Avelo Airlines. Second prize is a gift from Westporter Christian Siriano’s The Collective West. Third prize is 5 private music lessons at Neighborhood Studios.

Participants are asked for a minimum donation of $45. Click here to register, and for more information.

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Maintenance and upkeep of Baron’s South has gone to the birds.

So it’s not surprising that a flock of turkeys has taken over Golden Shadows, the “mansion” once occupied by Baron Walter Langen von Langendorff and his wife.

Morley Boyd spotted them, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Morley Boyd)

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And finally … today is the 120th anniversary of “the wreck of the old 97.” The mail train crash was not the worst rail disaster ever — though 11 people died, and 7 more were injured — but it lives on, thanks to folks like Johnny Cash.

(“06880” loves delivering news like today’s lead story, about Patty Kondub’s AquaFit movie. If you love the news “06880” delivers, please click here to support local journalism. Thank you!)

 

5 Comments

Posted in Arts, Environment, Police, YMCA

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Roundup: Animal Blessing, Footloose, Fall …

Posted on September 22, 2021 | 2 comments

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The Saugatuck Congregational Church’s front lawn — broad, green and very “New England” — has hosted social justice gatherings, plant sales and a labyrinth.

On October 3 (noon to 1:30 p.m.), it’s the site of a Blessing of the Animals.

The event will be led by Rev. Alison Buttrick Patton. Pets should be leashed or safely contained.

“At this time of environmental upheaval, pesticide use and habitat destruction, there will be blessings bestowed upon the wildlife that share our planet, as they struggle to survive,” says co-sponsor Westport Animal Shelter Advocates.

Attendees will also consider how to be a blessing to other creatures.

Peter Reid, outreach coordinator at Wildlife in Crisis, will speak about protecting habitat for wildlife, and provide tips for the peaceful co-existence between wild animals and pets.

Earth Animal will provide treats for dogs and cats.  Light refreshments will be served for humans.

To learn more, call 203-557-0361 or email wasa1@optonline.net

Blessing of the Animals at Saugatuck Congregational Church.

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Fall is here. But the Remarkable Theater is not about to fold its tent — er, screen — and go away.

The dance classic “Footloose” highlights the upcoming schedule. The October 1 showing benefits the Westport Rotary Club. The admission price includes snacks.

Other films include “Soul” (September 30), “On the Waterfront” (October 5) and “Clueless” (October 7). Click here for show times and tickets.

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“Night at the Museum” was a 2006 comedy film.

This Saturday’s MoCA Westport event by the same name is no laughing matter. But it will be tons of fun.

Parents are invited to drop off their pre-K through 2nd grade youngsters this Saturday (September 25), from 6 to 9 p.m. Staff members will lead them in art activities, a dance party and games. Pizza is provided; pack a water bottle. (You can provide your own, nut-free food in a labeled bag.)

Click here for details and registration.

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Fall arrives today, at 3:21 p.m.

A Wilton Road family offered this “Here Lies Summer” RIP tableau.

Perhaps it’s also the first Halloween lawn decoration in town.

(Photo/Karen Kosinski)

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Meanwhile, Harvest Moon photos keep on coming. This well-composed one is courtesy of David Loffredo.

(Photo/David Loffredo)

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NextStep is a non-profit offering rehabilitation and fitness services to paralyzed people — is sponsoring a fundraising ride, from Boston to Washington.

Yesterday afternoon, the group stopped in Westport. They ate, drank water, enjoyed Main Street hospitality — then headed off again on their long, important journey.

A brief respite in Westport. (Photo/Jerri Graham)

 

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Ten years later, the killing of Osama bin Laden still resonates.

Next Tuesday (September 28, 7 p.m.) Mary DeRosa — deputy assistant and deputy counsel to President Obama, and National Security Council legal adviser in his administration — discusses her role during the planning and execution of the Navy Seal raid.

She’ll be interviewed by Westporter Steve Parrish. The event will be held live (click here for a seat) and via Zoom (click here to watch).

Mary DeRosa

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Many Westporters support Neighborhood Studios. The Bridgeport non-profit transforms lives, through high quality art, music, theater and dance instruction to underserved children.

The latest addition: Yvette Trujillo Rose. The longtime resident is the organization’s new development director. She’ll be reaching out to Westport businesses and residents to get involved in Neighborhood Studios’ many programs. Click here for more information.

Yvette Trujillo Rose

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Pippa Bell Ader and Diane Yormark were kayaking near Saugatuck Shores’ Bermuda Lagoon yesterday morning. They stopped long enough for Pippa to snap this beautiful “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Pippa Bell Ader)

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And finally … as noted above, fall arrives this afternoon. John Coltrane says hello.

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Posted in Arts, Children, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Politics, religion

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Roundup: Healthcare, Music Festival, Y’s Women, More

Posted on February 24, 2021 | 2 comments

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The healthcare open enrollment period has been extended through March 15. If you do not have an employer-sponsored health insurance plan, you can get coverage through Access Health CT for you and your family. 

Connecticut residents can click on AccessHealthCT.com or call 855-805-4235 to review their coverage options and sign up for a plan. 

Click here to learn about enrollment assistance. Make sure you have the information you’ll need for yourself and anyone in your household if you’re ready to enroll in a plan. 

Hundreds of thousands of Connecticut residents have lost employer-sponsored health insurance during the pandemic. Access Health CT provides a safety net for displaced workers and their families. Click here for more information if you lost your health insurance because you or a family member lost their job. (Hat tip: Congressman Jim Himes)

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The Westport Library’s Lockdown Music Festival will be a low-key, fun and funky fundraiser for Neighborhood Studios of Bridgeport.

But the stakes just got higher. Longtime Westporter — and devoted Library patron — Dan Levinson will match all contributions up to $10,000.

The March 13 (7 p.m.). event is a virtual concert. Curated by Fairfield resident Chris Frantz of the Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club, it celebrates optimism, resilience and the power of music.

The Library’s concert partners are the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and WPKN-FM. Neighborhood Studios — the recipient of funds — provides arts, music, theater and dance education and opportunities for underserved  Bridgeport students. It will be livestreamed form the Library’s state-of-the-art Verso Studios.

Click here to register for the concert (and purchase a special concert poster).

Chris Frantz and his wife, Talking Heads bassist Tina Weymouth

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The Y’s Women are not just for women!

The great community group makes their virtual speaker series available to everyone. The most recent: Bill Harris, of the “new and oh so improved” Sacred Heart University Community Theater. Click here to view them all.

And (women only): Click here to learn about satellite groups (book and movie clubs), and how to join Y’s Women (for just $45 a year).

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Spring is tentatively creeping into town.

The sun rises earlier. The air is a little warmer. The joggers — and birds — are out.

Here are 2 shots from Compo Beach. Enjoy!

(Photo/Curtis Sullivan)

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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And finally … Lawrence Ferlingetti died Monday, in his beloved San Francisco. He was 101.

On a visit to San Francisco 20 or so years ago, I wandered into City Lights Bookstore. He’d always been my favorite poet. But for years, I’d assumed he was dead.

Yet there he was, standing by the counter, talking about books with someone who may or may not have known the old bearded guy was one of the most famous poets in the world.

I just listened. It was one of the most memorable days of my life.

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, Library, Organizations, People

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Roundup: Open House, Fundraising, Food, More

Posted on November 17, 2020 | 2 comments

There will be far fewer open houses this holiday season.

But MoCA Westport has plenty of space. They’re doing theirs early in December — nearly 3 weeks before Christmas. And they’re taking every COVID precaution they can.

MoCA’s Holiday Open House is set for Saturday, December 5 (12 to 5 p.m.). The event includes caroling by (small groups of) Staples Orphenians. They too will perform far less often than usual this year, so catch ’em while you can.

There’s free hot chocolate and doughnuts, plus food to purchase from the Melt Truck and Bubble & Brew.

Visitors can also enjoy the “World Peace” exhibit. Entry is timed, and limited to small groups.

The Westport School of Music — now housed on the 2nd floor will offer timed, small-group tours of its new space. Musicians will perform too, on the Steinway piano in the MoCA gallery.

The open house is run in conjunction with the Westport Police Department’s annual toy drive. Attendees can bring an unwrapped toy (or more) to add to the box.

The fate of the Staples High School wrestling team’s winter season is uncertain. But — COVID or no — the squad is fundraising for any eventuality, this year or next.

They’ve teamed up with BD Provisions in Fairfield’s Brick Walk, to sell bags of coffee. It’s roasted personally — and wonderfully — by owner (and Westporter) Tara DiPippa.

Coffees include Midnight Joe, Toasted Coconut, Organic Ethiopia and Colombian Decaf. For more information and to order, email FraasL@yahoo.com.

Tara DiPippa roasting BD Provisions coffee.

Neighborhood Studios — the fantastic after-school, weekend and summer music and arts programs serving 1,600 Bridgeport students a year — is raising much-needed funds with a virtual concert.

And plenty of Westporters are involved.

The event — “Great Songs for Hard Times” — kicks off this Friday (November 20, 8 p.m.). Performers include many familiar names: Rob Morton (aka Rob Schlossberg), Lorraine Watkins, Lynn Flaster, Lori Brasher, and Laurie and Jeffrey Gross.

Click here for tickets, or to make a donation.

Here’s a food drive. It’s for the Open Doors Foundation, a non-profit providing academic, athletic and enrichment programs for low-income students in Fairfield County and the Caribbean.

Non-perishable items can be dropped off at the Body Pulse Fitness Center (10 Bay Street, Westport). Monetary donations are great too; click here to help.

The Open Doors Foundation educates, enlightens and empowers.

And finally … one year ago today, the first known case of COVID-19 was traced to a 55-year-old man. He had visited a market in Wuhan, China.

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A Special Neighborhood Studios Night

Posted on March 30, 2019 | Comments Off on A Special Neighborhood Studios Night

For over 40 years, Neighborhood Studios has provided arts education to Bridgeport students. The non-profit transforms the lives of 1,600 youngsters through after-school art, music, theater and dance classes. There’s also a flourishing summer camp.

For many years too, Neighborhood Studios has enjoyed a close relationship with Alvin Ailey’s American Dance Theater. Longtime NS board member (and Westporter) Harold Levine was also chair of the Ailey company. They’re a frequent headliner at NS’ annual fundraiser.

They’ll be there again on April 28, at Fairfield University’s Quick Center.

Grace Bergonzi

But this year there’s a special attraction. Grace Bergonzi — a 2013 Staples High School graduate, now dancing with the prestigious Ailey II company — will also be there, on stage.

The event has another Westport connection. Jeffrey and Laurie Gross are being honored that night for their contributions to Neighborhood Studios.

The couple got involved through their daughter Margaret, a dancer. In 1998 Laurie encouraged her to enroll in the first-ever Ailey camp at the University of Bridgeport. Surrounded by people different from those she knew in Westport — but also passionate about dance — Margaret grew immensely.

Laurie stayed involved, eventually serving as Neighborhood Studios’ chair.

“Their mission is so compelling,” she says. “These kids who do music, dance, theater and arts are every bit as talented as kids from the suburbs. They just need an opportunity like this.”

Jeff and Laurie Gross

The Grosses are involved in many activities. She’s worked with Holocaust committees, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, United Way, and Action for Bridgeport Community Development.

He’s volunteered for the Jewish Federation of Eastern Fairfield County, Congregation Beth El, and Connecticut Multiple Sclerosis Society.

But Neighborhood Studios is particularly close to their hearts. On April 28, help the Grosses — and Grace Bergonzi — celebrate Westporters and Bridgeporters. They’re 2 very different neighborhoods, united by the arts.

(The Ailey II gala is Sunday, April 28 at 5:30 p.m. Click here for tickets. Click here for more information on Neighborhood Studios.)

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SlamJam Helps Teens Be Kind, Fight Bullies

Posted on January 3, 2017 | 1 comment

For a few months now, the Westport Arts Center’s “MORE Than Words” exhibit has highlighted the importance of courage, resilience and empowerment in the face of bullying.

It’s emboldened a variety of voices to speak out about the positive effects of empathy and kindness, and the negative results of exclusion.

No one knows that subject better than teenagers. On January 29, their voices will be heard — loud and clear.

SlamJam (5 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse) is an evening of performances by Fairfield County teens. They’ll express how they feel about their stressful social world, and promote a kinder, more inclusive community.

Songs, spoken word, rap, dance, music and film are some of the performance art genres on tap. Performers will come from Westport and area towns — including students from Bridgeport’s All-Star Project and Neighborhood Studios.

The emcee is Ceez Liive. The very cool poetry slam-winning artist from the Bronx performed at Staples a few years ago to great acclaim. Check her out below:

The event is produced by SKATEmovement. The acronym stands for Spreading Kindness and Teaching Empathy — an anti-bullying organization that teaches teens to be role models for younger children. All proceeds go to the Southern Connecticut branch of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

These are our teenagers. They have plenty to say.

And very creative, powerful ways of saying it.

(SlamJam is appropriate for middle schoolers and up. Tickets are $40 for adults, $20 for students and seniors. Click here to order. For $150 VIP seating, including pre- and post-show events, call 203-227-4177.)

slamjam

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Harold Levine: Westporters Must Help Bridgeport

Posted on July 1, 2015 | 6 comments

Harold Levine emailed me recently. He’s 93 years old. But the famed  advertising executive — who is also chairman emeritus of Neighborhood Studios, an after-school, weekend and summer music, arts and dance program for Bridgeport students –is as passionate as ever.

Frustrated, too. The longtime Westporter writes:

I just received a troubling phone call. Our executive director projects that by the end of our fiscal year on August 30th, we will be over $80,000 in  debt.

We are seriously understaffed. So why the deficit?

Neighborhood Studios logoWhy can’t we get enough money to provide arts experiences to over 1,500 children? Is it because they are poor? Is it because they don’t live in our community? Is it because they are black and Hispanic?

I recently invited a Westporter to join me on a visit to our programs in action. I was told, “Oh, I don’t go to Bridgeport.”

Neighborhood Studios was founded over 35 years ago by Pat Hart, a young woman who became blind at 28. She was committed to teaching art and music to blind and other handicapped children. Over the years the organization has grown to serve all Bridgeport children.

For example, for private piano lessons we ask parents to pay $3 per sessions. Many tell us they cannot afford even that little.  Are we to turn that child away?  Of course not. That’s one reason we end the year with a deficit.

For the past 15 years we have sponsored Ailey Camp, a 6-week summer program in cooperation with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Company. Bridgeport is one of only 7 such camps around the country.

A dance ensemble class rehearses at Neighborhood Studios. (Photo by Autumn Driscoll/CT Post)

A dance ensemble class rehearses at Neighborhood Studios. (Photo by Autumn Driscoll/CT Post)

Besides a great dance program, youngsters are also trained in speech, writing, and feeling good about themselves. Many campers return as interns and instructors.

This is a program that everyone in Fairfield County should be proud to support.  The campers (and their parents) are carefully interviewed. Each family pays only $25 for the entire summer — yet each camper costs Neighborhood Studios over $1,000.

We are looking for patrons of the arts. I was once told that if Neighborhood Studios was headquartered in Westport, we would be loaded with money.

But we’re not. We are in Bridgeport, serving a community very much in need. So how about saying to the children of Bridgeport: “We do care about you.”

Our programs work. We are successful in getting a high percentage of our children to go on to college.  We must continue to serve the children of our neighboring community, Bridgeport.

(To donate to Neighborhood Studios, click here.)

Harold Levine asks Westporters to help their neighbors.

Harold Levine asks Westporters to help their neighbors.

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Neighbors Help Neighborhood Studios

Posted on February 20, 2015 | 1 comment

For a long time, Neighborhood Studios needed a good documentary film, to show to prospective donors and sponsors.

The weekend and summer music and arts program serves 1600 Bridgeport youngsters each year. It’s very effective — but low-key, and chronically underfunded. There was no way to find the thousands of dollars a film production would charge.

Harold Levine

Harold Levine

A few months ago, Westporter Harold Levine — the organization’s 93-year-old chairman emeritus, still very active after a long career as a storied ad agency owner — approached a former colleague.

Tony Degregorio is a noted adman himself — and a Westporter. He agreed to be creative supervisor of the film.

Levine then asked Jim Honeycutt, director of Staples High School’s Media Lab, for help finding students to collaborate. Senior Arin Meyer volunteered to shoot the film. Levine calls her “extraordinarily talented.”

Junior Daniel Pauker joined as production assistant.

Levine’s next call was to longtime friend Doris Jacoby. For decades, her Jacoby Storm company has produced documentaries for major corporations and non-profit clients. She too eagerly signed on.

Neighborhood Studios logoThe result — a volunteer effort by talented Westporters, to help boys and girls in nearby Bridgeport — premieres on Sunday, March 15 (7 p.m.) at the Westport Country Playhouse. The Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company will perform.

They’re not from Westport. But like Harold Levine, Tony Degregorio, Arin Meyer, Daniel Pauker and Doris Jacoby, they’re eager to help Neighborhood Schools — our Bridgeport neighbors just a few miles away.

(Tickets to the Neighborhood Studios gala are available here.)

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