Tag Archives: Nina Bentley

Roundup: Jelani Cobb & Trey Ellis, Rupert & Lachlan Murdoch, ABC & Big Y …

Posted on January 18, 2026 | 2 comments

“If you’re a homeowner, the first termite you see is not the first termite that showed up.”

With that analogy, Jelani Cobb wove together 2 strands of his talk — America’s history of slavery and civil rights, and today’s threats to our democracy — yesterday.

The 20th annual Westport Weston Martin Luther King Day celebration at the Westport Library drew a full crowd. Cobb — a noted New Yorker writer, scholar, and dean of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism — was joined in conversation by novelist, playwright, filmmaker (and Westport resident) Trey Ellis.

Jelani Cobb (left) and Trey Ellis.

Asked by Ellis what King would think of the United States today, Cobb said, “It would be very familiar to him.”

Anti-democratic forces, he added, are “congenital problems that don’t go away by ignoring them.”

“My father had a 3rd grade education. I have a Ph.D.,” Cobb said. He vowed never to forget the democratic rights that enabled his achievement — and to “not tolerate intrusions on them.”

Recalling King’s famous quote — “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice” — Cobb noted the “fine print”: “We have to get out and bend it.”

Senator Richard Blumenthal spoke briefly. Referring to recent events, he said, “the totalitarian tactics used to silence non-violent protests are not America. It’s the America Martin Luther King protested against.”

The conversation was bookended by Varrick Nelson Jr. The young Stratford singer wowed the audience with stirring gospel-inflected renditions of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “A Change is Gonna Come.”

The audience included over 40 students from the Walter Luckett Foundation. The Bridgeport non-profit provides educational and recreational opportunities for young people. The Westport Library is a longtime partner.

The annual MLK celebration is a collaboration between the Library, TEAM Westport, Westport Country Playhouse, Westport Museum for History & Culture, and the Westport/Weston Clergy Association.

Varrick Nelson Jr.

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There was one serious automobile accident yesterday, in the snow that lasted much longer — and was a lot more slippery — than predicted.

Westport firefighters extricated the only occupant in a rollover crash at Bayberry Lane and Easton Road.

(Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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Gabriel Sherman has built a career writing about some of the most powerful people in the world.

His first book, “The Loudest Voice in the Room,” told the story of how Roger Ailes built Fox News.

Sherman wrote the screenplay for “The Apprentice,” the biopic about Donald Trump’s relationship with Roy Cohn.

His latest project:  “Bonfire of the Murdochs: How the Epic Fight to Control the Last Great Media Dynasty Broke a Family — and the World.”

Sherman was educated through grade 10 in Westport schools. He’s written for New York and Vanity Fair, and been a regular contributor to NBC News and MSNBC.

Sherman will be interviewed by Tina Brown at the 92nd Street Y in New York on February 5 (8 p.m.). Click here for tickets. 

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Looking for a way to help both A Better Chance of Westport, and the environment?

And to do so inexpensively, and easily?

This month, Big Y supermarket is donating $1 to ABC — the non-profit that provides educational opportunities to academically gifted and highly motivated young men of color — for every reusable bag purchased for $2.50.

It’s a no-brainer. Buy more than one. You can never have enough bags!

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There’s nothing like learning from pros.

On Wednesday David Guggenheim — screenwriter, producer and showrunner of Netflix’s “Designated Survivor” (and creator and writer of “Safe House,” “The Union” and “The Christmas Chronicles”) — visited Theater Camp 4 Kids Broadway Academy‘s students and interns.

He provided the young actors and writers with a “behind the camera” look at the reality of the film and TV industry, and inspired them to pursue their dreams.

Guggenheim shared insights about the creative process, including how to turn an idea into a script, and the reality of getting it produced. He also described the complex moving parts of a successful film or TV show, from how to make rainy scenes look real, to shooting on back lots and locations, and which actors he would love to work with in the future.

Youngsters came prepared with plenty of questions, which Guggenheim answered with warmth and charm.

Theater Camp 4 Kids is registering now for the winter/spring semester, and June Summer Day Camp. For information, email curleylaura@hotmail.com.

David Guggenheim (rear, center) with Theater Camp 4 Kids students. (Photo/Emily Jennings)

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Westporters using the Delta Sky Lounge at La Guardia Airport can see a bit of home.

Artist Nina Bentley’s work “He Looked Good on Paper” is on display, in Terminal C.

(Hat tip and photo/Kelle Ruden)

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As snow started to fall yesterday at Sherwood Mill Pond, Pam Docters captured this serene “Westport … Naturally” scene:

(Photo/Pam Docters)

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And finally … English author A.A. Milne was born on this date, in 1882. He died in 1956.

(“06880” is your 24/7/365 hyper-local blog. How do we do it? With support from readers like you. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Children, History, Library, Local business, Media

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Roundup: Parks & Rec Summer Registration, CMS At The Playhouse …

Posted on February 14, 2025 | 3 comments

Online registration begins at 9 a.m. March 11 for 2 of the most popular Parks & Recreation Department summer programs: Camp Compo and RECing Crew.

Registration opens the next day (March 12, 9 a.m.) for all other spring and summer offerings.

Parks & Rec officials urge residents to log in now to their online accounts, to verify family information.

  1. Log in and select “Manage Family Member” (bottom right).
  2. Click the first name in the column under “My Family Members” to check key details.
  3. Verify date of birth and ensure your child’s grade (as of September 2025) is correct.
  4. Click “Save” at the bottom.
  5. Go to the “Contact Information” tab and review/update your contact details. Click “Save” again.
  6. Repeat for each family member in your profile.

Address Change? Email us at recreation@westportct.gov with updated information.

Login issue? Don’t create a new profile. Email recreation@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-5152.

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Coleytown Middle School theater students got a special treat Wednesday.

Westport Country Playhouse technical director Jason Thompson led a tour of the theater, for Coleytown Company’s tech crew.

It was not a random invitation. Thompson is working with the students to build the set for “Matilda,” the CMS show that runs April 4-6.

The visit was coordinated by Ben Frimmer. He wears 3 hats: theater arts educator for Westport Public Schools, director of Coleytown Company, and Playhouse trustee.

“I want to make Westport students more aware of the only professional theatre in Westport,” he says.

“Coleytown has one of the strongest middle school tech programs in the country. But I think it’s critical we expand students’ knowledge past what we do at school. This trip allowed them to experience the world of professional technical theatre.”

Coleytown Company’s tech crew toured the historic Playhouse, visited the scene shop, and watched set building underway on stage for the opening next week of “Native Gardens.”

Jason Thompson, Playhouse technical director (right) and Matthew Melchiorre, Playhouse director of production (left), explain set construction of “Native Gardens” to  Coleytown Company’s tech crew.

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Speaking of the Playhouse: They’ve added 2 new events to their April calendar.

“Me, Myself, and Barbra” is a tribute to Ms. Streisand, by Jenna Pastuszek. She was inspired by a meeting with the singing star, who inspired her to embrace her inner Barbra.

The show is April 24 — Streisand’s birthday. Tickets are $45 and $40; pre-show party and show tickets are $55 and $50. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

“2 Motherpluckers” is a musical, featuring a pair of guitar-playing, songwriting local moms — Julie Foldesi and Stacie Morgain Lewis — on a hilarious journey through the bumps of motherhood.

Broadway star/Westport resident compares it to “the Indigo Girls meet Kristen Wiig.”

The Lucille Lortel White Barn Center show is April 29 (7 p.m.). All tickets are $20. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Three new art exhibits are on display at The Westport Library. “Good Bones: 60 Years of Multi-Dimensional Commentary” by Nina Bentley, “City Sights” by Susan Fehlinger, and “Art and Jazz” by Jean Krasno run through March 25.

Bentley’s art is often conceptual in nature, offering poignant commentary on a wide array of social issues. “Good Bones” is a retrospective of decades of her work, composed of sculpture, prints, pen and ink, and multimedia assemblages.

Fehlinger worked for 35 years as a television producer in New York City. Yearning to paint, she left her job in 2003 and embarked on a career as an artist.

Her style emphasizes  texture, color, and light. Her compositions play with scale, placement, and negative and positive spaces.

Krasno is inspired by the magic of jazz music, conveyed through the rich voices, poetic lyrics and rhythmic performances of artists like Dave Brubeck, Miles Davis and Duke Ellington.

“Art and Jazz” creates a sensory experience that combines her art with the music that sparked its creation, incorporating a listening component with QR codes that link to jazz songs.

Art, by Nina Bentley

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The Westport Board of Education Policy Committee’s next meeting is February 27 (11 a.m., Town Hall Room 309).

Discussion items include:

  • Second reading of possible revisions to the suicide prevention and intervention policy.
  • First reading of possible revisions to existing policies involving the Americans with Disabilities Act, non-discrimination, and sex-based discrimination and harassment.
  • First reading of a possiible new policy on transportation.
  • Discussion of a policy on survey of students/student privacy.

Meanwhile, one of the agenda items for the Planning & Zoning Commission’s February 24 meeting (6 p.m., remote; click here for the link) is a special permit request by Fairfield County Hunt Club.

They’re applying to build an indoor racquet sport facility, for club members and guests.

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Congratulations to 14 Staples High School musicians. They auditioned successfully for the Connecticut Music Educators Associaton All-State Festival.

Their names and talents are below:

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A late model Audi was stolen around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, from the parking lot at Bridge Square.

The thief opened the door, and drove off. It appears the keys might have been left in the car.

The epidemic of car thefts continues in Westport. Once again, “06880” reminds residents to lock your cars — always. Never leave your keys in your cars. Always be aware of your surroundings. And if you have a garage: Use it!  (Hat tip: Ben Meyer)

Don’t be a victim!

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Many Westporters (judging by comments on, and to, “06880”) don’t like dogs on the Compo Beach boardwalk.

But many others (using the same unscientific method) don’t like signs warning them to keep away.

They’re too large and intrusive, readers say.

One resident has another point of view. “At least they’re the right height for dogs to read,” he says.

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Eve Potts spotted this at the Regents Park condos, after our most recent storm. It’s today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature. She calls it “Nature’s Sculpture.”

(Photo/Eve Potts)

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And finally … Happy Valentine’s Day, to all who celebrate it.

There are squintillions of songs to choose from. These 3 seem to cover it well:

(Sure, you can show your love for “06880” with flowers or chocolate. But we prefer that you click here, and make a tax-deductible contribution. Hey, we’re honest! Thank you all …)

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Posted in Arts, Education, Entertainment, Library, Police, Westport Country Playhouse

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Downsizing? Moving? Organizing? 2 Jens Ease Stress

Posted on December 19, 2024 | 2 comments

Jenny Bentley and Jennifer Dewis have a lot in common, beside their first names.

They moved to Westport on the same day in 2008. They met while dropping off their 3rd graders at Greens Farms Elementary School. (The girls became longtime friends.)

Both women were good at helping friends’ parents downsize their homes. As their organizational skills grew, their separate reputations spread.

Inevitably, they joined forces. Today, their business — 2Jens Organizing — thrives. Empty nesters themselves, they fill a great niche: taking the stress out of moving from a large house to a smaller one.

Jenny and Jennifer take on side tasks too with gusto, like bringing small items to Goodwill, calling auction houses and hanging art. They’ve been hired to organize young children’s rooms, too.

Jenny Bentley (left) and Jennifer Dewis take on many tasks with smiles.

But their bread and butter is the daunting task of helping older folks downsize.

The process begins with questions: What should I bring? What should I donate, and where? What can I throw out?

Well-meaning adult children cannot always help. Sometimes they hurt. They’re too close to the situation.

The Jens provide 2 sets of objective eyes. And years of experience in helping folks make plans, then carrying them out. (The plans, not the clients.)

“A lot of this is intuitive. We’re very good listeners,” Jenny says. “We consult. We advise. But we’re very respectful of people’s wishes.”

The women know it can be hard to part with memorabilia. Gently, they help sort through it. If there are 75 pieces of artwork from elementary school, perhaps 10 are enough to keep? 

Much of that memorabilia is all over the place too: refrigerators, mantels, basements, attics. The Jens are geniuses at sorting it, putting it in bins, and labeling it.

Setting up a new, well-organized space.

Moving can be a fraught experience. Clients invite Jenny and Jennifer into their personal space. But they don’t want to feel criticized or judged.

“Whatever works for them is fine,” Jenny says. She leaves out the second part: Even if we don’t like it ourselves.

What they do is largely “problem-solving,” she adds. “We have independent eyes, we come up with a game plan, we communicate it with them, and then we work on the timing of everything.”

Once a client has moved into a new home, the Jens are there. They’ll organize, say, a kitchen. They bring their expertise, but stop often to ask: Does this work for you?

A recent client (though probably gratis) was Jenny’s mother, Nina Bentley.

A noted assemblage artist, she did not want to part with anything in her garage. So the 2 Jens emptied, swept and vacuumed it, then put everything back in an orderly way.

Now her tools, paints and skulls (!) are organized. “It doesn’t look Instagram-perfect, but that’s the reality of how an artist work,” Nina’s daughter says.

A 2 Jens garage: before and after.

Some of the kitchens and laundry rooms they work on do look tidy. But not every room.

“Not every client wants then,” Jennifer explains. “They want to live their lives in a way that works for them.”

The women’s expertise comes from their own lives. Both women have moved often. They’ve set up their own homes, and helped their 6 children (combined) move into new bedrooms, dorm rooms and apartments.

Deciding what to sell or donate — or whether to have an estate sale, or send items to consignment — is challening.

“Clients can be overwhelmed,” says Jenny. “We have a lot of patience, and a deft touch to make them feel at ease, every step of the way.”

The women charge by the hour. Clients can stop the clock any time, and not feel locked into a contract.

However, Jenny notes, “jobs tend to get bigger as we go. Once we get started, people realize they need more things done.”

Downsizing is never easy. There’s a lot of stuff in those closets, basements and attics.

The 2 Jens are ready to help make sense — and well-organized, clearly labeled bins — of it.

(For more information on 2Jens Organizing, click here.)

(“06880” is a great way to learn about Westport businesses, services, lifestyles and more. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Local business, Westport life

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Roundup: Smoky Air, Old Dominion, Neighborly Sign …

Posted on November 21, 2024 | 3 comments

There was something in the air yesterday.

The smoky odor that pervaded much of Westport was due to a wildfire.

In Great Barrington, Massachusetts.

Smoke from the Berkshires drifted southward, then hung around.

Fire Marshal Terry Dunn says, “Smoke in the air is a stark reminder of how quickly fires can spread under the right conditions. We urge all residents to remain diligent, and respect the outdoor burning ban to keep our community safe.”

As seen from Sherwood Island State Park, smoke from Massachusetts lingers over Cockenoe Island. (Photo/Chris Swan)

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Old Dominion made history last night.

They were named Counry Music Association Vocal Group of the Year for the 7th time. That beats Little Big Town’s 6 awards.

Old Dominion’s lead guitarist, Brad Tursi, is a 1997 Staples High School graduate (and former soccer star). Last month, he wowed a sell-out Levitt Pavilion crowd last month, as a solo artist with a different backup band.

Old Dominion, at last night’s Country Music Association awards. Westport native Brad Tursi is at far left. (Hat tip and photo/Tricia Summers)

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The other day, “06880” reported on harsh, homemade and very un-neighborly sign posted by a Fillow Street resident.

She was (rightly) upset by very-unneighborly neighbors who neglected to pick up the dog poop deposited on her lawn.

I think she reads “06880.” It’s been replaced by this much smaller, more reasonable, and decidedly neighborly one:

No s—!

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The largest crowd ever turned out for last night’s Artists Collective of Westport show opening, at the Westport Country Playhouse’s Sheffer Barn.

All works — over 100, in a wide variety of styles, genres and materials — are available for purchase. And all are 12″ x 12″, making them easy to ship.

The show runs through Sunday, November 24 (noon to 4 p.m., Sheffer Barn at Westport Country Playhouse).

Nina Bentley is one of the many artists whose 12×12 work is on display at the Westport Country Playhouse’s Sheffer Barn. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Alisan Porter (Staples High School Class of 1999) and Drew McKeon (SHS ’00) are hitting the road in New England this week, support Alisan’s new record, “The Ride.”

The longtime friends co-wrote the single “Nothing’s Broken,” which Drew produced in his “tiny Manhattan apartment bedroom,” his parents’ Westport basement, and his friend Tim Walsh’s home studio in Black Rock.

Drew finished with vocal tracking at Charlie Chaplin’s old Hollywood lot.

Drew and Alison perform a set of Alisan’s original music spanning her career — including selections from her winning season on NBC’s “The Voice” — this Saturday (November 23) at the intimate Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center in Old Saybrook. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Other performances include The Cut in Gloucester, Massachusetts (November 30), the Music Hall Lounge in Portsmouth, New Hampshire (December 2), and Boston’s City Winery (December 4).

Alisan Porter and Drew McKeon.

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Speaking of Staples alumni entertainers: “The Good Whale” — a new 6-episode New York Times podcast about “Free Willy” orca star Keiko, once the cameras stopped rolling —  includes an original song by Staples High School graduate Justin Paul, and his writing partner Benj Pasek.

They’ve already won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony. Can whatever award is given for podcast music far behind? (Hat tip: Ann Humphrey)

Keiko

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Speaking of music: Weston High School junior Owen Daniel has just released his debut single.

“Fear of Losing You — the first song he ever wrote — was produced at Norwalk’s Factory Underground Studio. It is available on all streaming outlets. Click here to listen and download.

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More entertainment news: This Sunday (November 24, 7 p.m., Fairfield Theatre Company), Westporter Hannah Levin (Greens Farms Academy Class of 2015) screens her short film, “Golden Child,” as part of the FTC Short Film Festival.

The plot: a young woman is reunited with her childhood friend at a pool party, and reckons with the fact that he used to pee on her when they were kids.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

 

Hannah Levin

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It’s not yet Black Friday. But Sorelle Gallery’s Black Friday sale has already begun.

All art is 20% off. And there’s free shipping through Cyber Monday (December 2). 11:59pm). Click here to explore the offerings.

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This week’s Westport Rotary Club lunch featured an audio presentation by Dr.  Uyanwune Mbanefo.

He is a Rotary Peace Fellow working to ameliorate serious issues faced by 8 million albinos in Nigeria.

Believed to be evil, they face verbal and physical violence, and are sometimes hunted for body parts. They are also very susceptible to skin cancer.

Dr. Uyanwune Mbanefo

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Former Staples High School football star Willard “Buz” Leavitt — part of the 1964 backfield  that included Bill During, John Bolger and Jack Forehand — died on November 13. He was 77, and lived in Blythewood, South Carolina.

Buz moved from Burnt Hills, New York to Westport as a junior. After his stellar Staples seasons, he headed to Wake Forest University. He earned ACC Offensive Player of the Week mention, and graduated in 1970.

He met his wife Anne there. They married in 1969, and were together for 55 years.

Buz spent 32 years with Procter & Gamble in Charlotte, as sales manager and special events director.

For spent decades coaching youth sports, and was admired by players and parents alike.

Buz is survived by his wife Anne; sons Chris (Darla) of Greenville, South Carolina, Charley (Heather) of Charlotte, and Courtney (Shelley) of Blythewood; brother Scott (Bridget), of Charlotte; sister Susan Pittman, of Roswell, Georgia, and grandchildren Riley, Zoe, Lila, Ian, Banks, Ella Chase, Eliza and Olivia.

A service to celebrate his life will be on November 22 (1 p.m.), at the Clubhouse at Cobblestone Park in Blythewood.

In Lieu of flowers, a gift in Buz’s memory can be made to Baby Bundles, a Charlotte nonprofit that provides essential baby items to families in need.

Buz Leavitt

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Longtime Westport realtor Margherita (Marj) Basili died last Friday. She was 94, and also lived in Palatka, Florida.

The New Haven native worked her way through New York University, and graduated with a degree in business. 

She worked as a management consultant, then worked for the Australian Consolidated Press in New York.

In 1957 Marj moved to Naples, Italy, where she supported the 6th Fleet as a buyer and merchandising manager in the Naval Postal Exchange (PX).

She married in Italy, then and returned to the US in 1960 to start a family. She taugh in Milford and Westport elementary schools.

By 1969, a single mother of 3 young boys, she shifted into commercial and residential real estate

Her family says, “Marj curated a large group of friends, knitted together by her interests in life and her empathetic approach to others. She reveled in helping others. No problem was insurmountable to her.”

She survived by her sons, Giuseppe (Dean) of Norman, Oklahoma, Gianfranco (Allison) of St. Augustine, Florida, and Roberto (Sara) of Bergen, Norway, granddaughters Alexandra Basili Gunther (Ben) and Johanne, and grandsons Benjamin and Filip.

At Marj’s request, no funeral or memorial service will be held.

Marj Basili

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features a fine-looking (and well-camouflaged) bobcat:

(Photo/Elisabeth Levey)

It wandered up Elisabeth Levey’s driveway off Compo Road South, “very chill and completely unperturbed by us humans.”

And why not? These cats were here long before us.

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And finally … in honor (or at least recognition) of yesterday’s visit from Great Barrington:

 (Many “06880” readers contacted us yesterday, wondering about the smoky smell. We’re glad the town turns to us. But we rely on your support to keep us going. Please click here to help. Thanks!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Obituaries, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Dance Party, Menorah, Yuki Kitchen …

Posted on December 8, 2022 | 1 comment

I’m an idiot.

I posted yesterday’s Roundup story about the Hackett family’s used sports equipment drive — it benefits Leveling the Playing Field, a non-profit that helps youngsters in need — without including where to drop the cleats, balls and more off.

They’ll be at the Granola Bar this Saturday and Sunday (December 10 and 11), from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Click here for a list of items you can donate. You know you’ve got some of it lying unused all around your house!

From left: Max Levitt (Founder of Leveling The Playing Field), Alex Hackett, Daisy Hackett, Chloe Hackett

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Before COVID, Julie Whamond hosted a dance party every year. It was her gift to friends — a way to let off steam during the stressful holiday season.

This year, it’s back.

And it’s better than ever. Julie is using the festivities to raise donations for Westport’s Warm-Up Fund.

The Fund — an initiative of Westport’s Department of Human Services — helps income-qualified residents with their home heating expenses.

The date is next Wednesday (December 14, 7 to 10 p.m.). Julie secured Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall. She hired a DJ.

Now she just needs even more folks to attend. Whether you know Julie or not: You’re invited!

Venmo a $30 (or more) donation: @Julie-Whamond. Wear festive attire. Bring a drink or snack to share. Then party down for the Warm-Up Fund.

Questions? Email Whamondjoy@gmail.com.

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The Westport Police have released arrest reports for the December 1-7 period.

Two people were detained in custody. One was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, failure to obey traffic control signal, and failure to drive in the proper lane.

The other custodial arrest was for conspiracy to commit burglary; oeperating a motor vehicle without a license; failure to renew registration; misuse of plates, and insurance coverage fails to meet minimum requirements.

The following citations were issued:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 18
  • Stop sign violation: 4
  • Violation of any traffic commission regulation: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Failure to display plates: 2
  • Misuse of license plates: 1
  • Insurance coverage fails to meet minimum requirements: 2
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 1

Not a suggestion. A command.

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Longtime ESPN reporter, E60 host Jeremy Schaap — a 1988 Staples High School graduate, and current Westport resident — never shies away from important issues.

He is the lead reporter and narrator of a new film, “The  Survivor.” The documentary examines the 1972 Munich Massacre. That September, terrorists murdered 11 Israeli athletics at the Summer Olympics.

Schapp will screen the film at the Westport Library on Monday (December 12, 7 p.m.). Immediately afterward, the 11-time Emmy Award-winning investigative journalist will host a talkback

Schaap traveled to Israel and Germany to tell the story through the eyes of 86-year-old Israeli race walker Shaul Ladany. He survived the massacre — as he had World War II and the Holocaust, when he was a child.

“In his long life, Shaul Ladany has seen up close the worst of humanity,” says Schaap. “Not only has he survived, he has pressed forward, constantly, to lead a life of achievement. The lessons of his life are valuable to us all. I was honored to be part of the team that told the story of what he endured and what he witnessed. Ladany’s story is not so well-known here in the United States — but it should be.”

The Munich Massacre was the first terrorist attack broadcast live on television around the world. “The Survivor” breaks down the tragedy through archival video and news reports, along with new interviews and reporting.

Jeremy Schaap

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Open Rice — the Chinese food takeout place between Sherwood Diner and Earth Animal — closed in June.

It’s been replaced by Yuki Kitchen. The Japanese food takeout place features sushi, bento boxes, noodles and more. Click here for the menu.

Yuki Kitchen (Photo/Dan Woog)

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What will you do with over 500 pairs of shoes?

If you’re Soles4Souls — the non-profit that collects new and gently used shoes — you’ll distribute them to people in need.

And you’ll do it with Westporters’ help.

This holiday season, Ken Bernhard and Ted Freedman led a drive that collected all those 500-plus shoes here. Collection boxes were placed at Town Hall, police headquarters and the Senior Center.

Ken and Ted thank all who contributed. It’s one small step — now, in proper shoes — to help break the cycle of poverty.

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An outdoor menorah will be lit on December 20 — and everyone is invited.

The event — on the 3rd night of Hanukkah — is set for Weston Center, at 6:15 p.m.

Doing the honors are Rabbi Levi & Chanie Stone, co-directors of the Chabad Schneerson Center. There’s live music too.

Hanukkah gelt and cookies, doughnuts and dreidels will be distributed to all.

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The Westport Rotary Club presented its annual Community Service and Public Protection Awards on Tuesday.

Recipients included artist and homeless advocate Nina Bentley; former Westport 1st Selectman Jim Marpe; RTM veteran Velma Heller; the Westport chapter of the National Charity League (represented by member Lisa Price), and Builders Beyond Borders executive director Amy Schroeder-Riggio.

Firefighter Rob Lenois and police officer Kevin Smith also earned awards for individual acts of heroism.

Nina Bentley receives her Westport Rotary Club award from Karl Mergenthaler and Leslie Roberts. (Photo/Jeff Wieser)

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These women don’t need shoes. Flip-flops are fine.

All year long.

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

They swim every Friday and Sunday — yes, even now.

The water temperature these days is 50 degrees. The air temperature is lower.

It will get a lot lower soon. But they promise to be in the water, when the rest of us are sitting lazily by a fire.

To each her own.

And congrats!

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A concerned reader emailed this photo yesterday:

It shows oil on the Saugatuck River, just below the Cribari Bridge.

“I don’t know where it’s coming from,” he says. “But it’s been there all day.”

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George Billis Gallery is moving again.

After opening on Main Street in late 2020 — in the midst of COVID, the 3rd outpost after New York and Los Angeles — the exhibit space moved to Post Road East.

Next stop: Fairfield. The 1700 Post Road location opens January 1.

“I love Westport. But the rent it too high for permanent space,” owner George Billis says.

He looks forward to welcoming customers to his new gallery. And hopes they’ll stop by before he relocates, for the moving sale going on now.

The first site of George Billis gallery, on Main Street.

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The moon sets every morning. That gets less love from “06880” photographers than when it rises, and hangs high in the sky.

And a lot less love than sunrises and sunsets.

So today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shines a light on the moonset. It was taken this morning by Matt Murray, and shows Sherwood Mill Pond, looking west toward Hillspoint Road.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … Joyce Bryant died recently, in Los Angeles. She was 95, and suffered from Alzheimer’s.

I’d never heard of her. But according to her New York Times obituary, she was :a sultry singer of the 1940s and ’50s who broke racial barriers in nightclubs and raised the hackles of radio censors before setting aside her show business career in favor of missionary work, then reinventing herself as a classical and opera singer,”

Click here for her fascinating life story. Click below to hear a bit of her work:

(Obscure nightclub singers, police reports, menorah lightings, new Japanese restaurants — “06880” brings you all the Roundup news, every day. If you enjoy our work, please click here to contribute. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Bob Le Rose, Barbara Pearson-Rac, Movies …

Posted on August 5, 2021 | 1 comment

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In 2012 Bob LeRose — founder of 2 Westport favorites, Bobby Q’s restaurant and the Blues, Views & BBQ Festival — was diagnosed with a rare soft tissue cancer. He was given 2 years to live.

Over the next 10 years Bob endured numerous surgeries and countless treatments. He also opened new restaurants in Norwalk and Greenwich,  continued to produce the Labor Day festival, and helped his wife Kelley raise 2 daughters.

But the disease has persisted. Bob needs physical and occupational therapy nearly every day, to regain his strength so he can get to the hospital for blood transfusions and immunotherapy. He also needs a special bed and wheelchair. Many other expenses are mounting too.

Nearly a decade of medical bills have taken a toll on the self-employed restauranteur. Bob’s many friends — all of whom have been touched by his generosity — are giving back.

A GoFundMe page has already raised over $100,000. Even more will be needed. Click here for more information, and to contribute. (Hat tip: Audrey Rabinowitz)

Bob Le Rose, with his wife Kelley and daughters.

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“06880” paid tribute to Barbara Pearson-Rac yesterday. She died Tuesday, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 75 years old.

Her official obituary notes that the Brooklyn native was inspired to serve her community because of John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address. She chaired Make a Difference Day for over 25 years, was president of the board of First Night Westport Weston, and vice president of the board of the Breast Cancer Survival Center.

She was also an author, writing a series of mystery novels featuring the character Diana Jeffries.

Barbara is survived by her husband Frank, daughter Sara, son-in-law Steve, grandsons Simon and Gabriel, sister Carol, brother-in-law Steve, nieces Amy and Erica, many cousins, and all the lives she touched through her community outreach and writing.

Her funeral is set for today (Beth Israel Cemetery, Woodbridge, New Jersey, 11 a.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Barbara Pearson-Rac

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The Remarkable Theater calendar continues to be filled with remarkable — or at least, very entertaining — films.

Here’s what’s ahead:

  • Monday, August 9: “Mamma Mia!” (8:30 p.m.)
  • Wednesday, August 11: Scream” (9:15 p.m.)
  • Monday, August 16: “Coco” (7:45 p.m.)
  • Wednesday, August 18; “Get Out” (9:15 p.m.)
  • Monday, August 23: “Stand By Me” (7:45 p.m.).

Click here for tickets and more information.

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MoCA’s fall benefit has something for everyone.

“The Art of Jazz” includes live music by Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Wayne Escoffery, a live auction led by TV personality Dave Briggs, a silent auction, and entertainment by DJ Mo.

It’s Saturday, September 18 (7 p.m.) at the museum. For tickets and more information, click here.

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Sunny the Duck is popping up all over town. Yesterday he loomed over the Saugatuck River.

(Photo/Susan Lloyd)

The iconic waterfowl advertises Westport Sunrise Rotary’s annual Great Duck Race (actually, this year a raffle on August 6).

The fundraiser helps support a host of charitable efforts. There are 8 prizes, including a $5,000 Visa gift card. Click here for details and tickets.

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Speaking of animals:

On Tuesday Olaf and Elsa, domestic white rabbits, were abandoned outside Wakeman Farm. A call to Westport Animal Control brought the assistance of Westport Animal Shelter Advocates.

Always-helpful Schulhof Animal Hospital stepped up to board the pair until an adopter or rabbit rescue organization is found. WASA purchased new rabbit bins for their comfort, and will fund their visit to a “rabbit vet specialist.”

Click here to donate to the cause. Interested adopters should call Westport Animal Control (203-341-5076) or WASA (203-557-0361).

Olaf the rabbit.

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Bob Meadows — director of the Westport Observatory — has just returned from the 85th Convention of Amateur Telescope Makers (“the world’s oldest amateur star party”).

He’ll offer a report on August 17 (8 p.m., Rolnick Observatory, 182 Bayberry Lane). The public is invite. For more information, click here.

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Last week’s torrential rain did not deter crowds at Quidley & Company’s show.

There was art, cuisine (catered by OKO, the restaurant next door at the gallery), and good conversation.

Cynthia Melchiorri created this collage to celebrate the event.

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Speaking of art: Not everyone at Wilton’s Sunrise Assisted Living can get out and enjoy it. So Westporter Jane Hutchison is bringing it to them.

Next Wednesday (August 11, 4 to 6 p.m.), she’s arranged a show. Artists include Westport’s Nina Bentley, Mercedes Arenberg, and various local photographers.

As at any art show, wine will be served.

One of Nina Bentley’s typewriter works.

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Haskins Preserve is Westport’s somewhat-hidden-in-plain-sight gem on Green Acre Lane. You can read about it here — and see Rachel Markus’ great “Westport … Naturally” photo below:

(Photo/Rachel Markus)

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As the setting sun broke through the clouds on Tuesday, after years of 2nd and 3rd place finishes, the Longshore Men’s 60+ tennis team clinched 1st place in their division of the Fairfield County Tennis League with a tense 6-4,4-6, 6-4 win over second place Milbrook. It was the very last match of the season.

(Photo/Matthew Levine)

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And finally … on this date in 1888,  Bertha Benz drove from Mannheim to Pforzheim and back. It is considered the first long distance automobile trip in history.

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Roundup: Art Show, Beechwood, Private Benjamin …

Posted on May 24, 2021 | 4 comments

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Here’s news to put a spring in your step:

Staples High School’s Jazz Combo earned 1st place at the 2021 National Jazz Festival this weekend. They competed in Small Ensemble Division 1 Live Performance.

Leading the quintet were seniors Lucas Lieberman (piano) and Abe Rubin (bass). The other members are sophomores: Noah Jahnel (tenor saxophone), Delaney McGee (trumpet), and Witt Lindau (drums).

Lucas was named the Superior Musician for the division, while Delaney and Witt were selected as 2 of the 3 Outstanding Musicians.

The Staples High School Jazz Ensemble participated in the Large Ensemble Division 1 Live Performance competition. Though they did not place, the adjudicators called the ensemble a “swingin’ band” and “one of the better bands that we’ve heard, in a tough division.” Congratulations to director Phil Giampietro, and all the musicians!

Click here to hear the Jazz Combo. Click here for the Jazz Ensemble.

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Westport’s back-to-normal journey continued yesterday, with a pair of just-like-old-times events.

The Westport Woman’s Club held its annual-except-for-last-year art show. Paintings, photos, ceramics — all by local artists — were admired (and bought) by a large, joyful bunch of happy-to-be-back art lovers.

Miggs Burroughs and Nina Bentley were among the artists exhibiting at yesterday’s Westport Woman’s Club show.

And  Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito opened Beechwood — their Weston Road home, where they host regular arts salons (and more) — to the public, for the first time in a year.

The grounds were spectacular. Especially the centerpiece: an ancient copper beech tree, which gives the property and the arts series its name.

The Beechwood copper birch tree. (Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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COVID stopped many things this year — but not the National Charity League.

Yesterday, Staples High School’s chapter of the mother/daughter community service organization honored 5 pairs — each of whom did more than 30 hours annually — with a “car caravan.”

It ended with a ceremonial “tea” at Ned Dimes Marina, for all 16 seniors.

National Charity League seniors, at Ned Dimes Marina. Back row (from left): Lauren Spheeris, Milei Wyatt, Grace Maloney, Tatiana Bicalho, Daphne Baker, Hannah Murphy, Kaytlyn Carnahan, Callie Rourke, Kyla Race. Front row: Maya Sampath, Abby Ragland, Isabelle Gerard, Hayley Buckman, Elana Lundbye, Sarah Corneck, Chloe Chaple..

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Just added to the Remarkable Theater’s schedule: “Private Benjamin.” It’s this Thursday (May 27, 8 p.m.). The parking lot opens at 7 p.m., for tailgating.

Click here for tickets, and more shows.

“Private Benjamin”

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Boston College’s “Spoon River Revival” has won the Outstanding Creative Ensemble Award from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival.

Four cast members — including Staples High School Class of 2020 graduate Nick Rossi — were chosen to participate in the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship competition. The award provides recognition, honor and financial assistance to outstanding student performers for the further pursuit of education. Click here for the full story.

Emily (Sophie Rossman) and George (Nick Rossi) at the soda shop, in Staples Players’ production of “Our Town.” (Photo/Kerry Long)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from downtown, via Frank Rosen:

(Photo/Frank Rosen)

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And finally … on this day in 1624, Peter Minuit bought Manhattan for the Dutch, from the Lenape Native Americans.

It is commonly believed the price was $24 worth of trinkets. It was actually “60 guilders worth of trade” — approximately $1,143 in 2020 dollars.

So today’s featured artist and song are no-brainers:

 

 

 

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Roundup: Art, Dogs, More

Posted on February 15, 2021 | 3 comments

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Valentine’s Day is over. But a “Share the Love” art is exhibit is on display for the next 2 weeks, at The Residence at Westport. The display highlights 18 professional and emerging local artists.

This Friday (February 19), The Residence hosts “Cocktails and Curating.” It’s an interactive, on-site reception where artists will share their stories, inspirations and highlights live, and to guests via Zoom. Senior Center members are particularly welcome.

The project was developed by Lisa Stretton, founder of RealArtRealArtists, an online directory through which users search for original art for sale by professional artists.

“Morning Walk,” displayed at The Residence at Westport. Artist Lisa Stretton was inspired by Compo Beach.

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The Westport Book Shop wasted no time becoming part of the arts community.

The used book store on Jesup Green opened earlier this month. Already, their first art exhibit — in what they call the Drew Friedman Art Place — is on display.  The show features photographic prints of artworks by renowned local assemblage artist Nina Bentley.

The exhibit is open during business hours: Thursdays and Fridays 3 to 6 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.

Miggs Burroughs is curating the Westport Book Shop exhibits. They’ll change monthly.

Nina Bentley, with photos of her art at the Westport Book Shop.

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Westport native Cathy Malkin moved back here in November, after 31 years in the Bay Area. Her sister Stefani Malkin Cohen now lives in New Rochelle.

Cathy is an animal communicator and animal Reiki practitioner. Stefani is a therapist, working with children and families.

Stefani developed a niche helping kids who are afraid of dogs (it works with adults too). That’s a real fear — and unlike spiders or snakes, it’s hard to avoid dogs.

“Overcoming Your Child’s Fear of Dogs” covers understanding dog behavior; how dogs communicate, and staying safe around dogs.

“We teach kids to look both ways before they cross the street, to not touch hot things and to stop, drop and roll in a fire,” Stefani says. “But parents rarely teach them how to interact safely and respectfully with dogs.”

Click here for more information, and to order Stefani’s book.

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The Westport Book Shop is serious about adhering to COVID limits on customers. Here’s the new guard:

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We missed a couple of great Valentine’s Day photos yesterday. So here’s to love — 24/7/365!

Saugatuck River (Photo/Lori Dodd)

Old Mill Beach (Photo/Les Dinkin)

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And finally … Happy Presidents Day!

Who knew that “Hail to the Chief” has words?

For all you history nerds (like me), here is the first time “Hail to the Chief” was played for every president from John F. Kennedy to Joe Biden …

… and the last, for every president funeral from Kennedy to George H.W. Bush:

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0*6*Art*Art*0 — Week 33 Gallery

Posted on November 7, 2020 | Comments Off on 0*6*Art*Art*0 — Week 33 Gallery

Perhaps there were other things going on last week. Maybe our artists were distracted.

Whatever the reason, we had only 3 submissions for our weekly art gallery. All however are timely.

One is political. One is autumnal. One is social. It’s a nice juxtaposition.

As always we welcome submissions from all artists. Works should be inspired by, relevant to, or somehow, in some way, connected to our current lives. Student art of all ages is especially welcome.

Email dwoog@optonline.net, to share your work with the world.

“Politics Is Messy” (Amy Schneider)

“Still Life” (Karen Weingarten)

Untitled. Artist Nina Bentley says, “I’m too distressed to create art now. But going though a file drawer of drawings, I came across this that I drew in the ’70s. It fits how I feel today in the pandemic.”

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0*6*Art*Art*0 — Week 15 Gallery

Posted on June 27, 2020 | 3 comments

As Westport reopens, the number of submissions to our Saturday art gallery slows.

Still, there’s plenty of good work to show. As always, our artists’ many moods are reflected in many mediums.

Keep ’em coming. Professional, amateur, old, young — we want it all. Student submissions are particularly welcome!

The only rule: Your art must be inspired by, reflective of, or otherwise related to the times we’re going through. Email dwoog@optonline.net.

Handmade greeting card (Amy Schneider)

“Hand’s On: An Artist’s Touch (Photographer Larry Untermeyer took this photo of Westport artist Howard Munce at Elizabeth Gaynor’s sketch class in 2010)

“Comforting” (Lawrence Weisman)

“Corona Meltdown” (Nina Bentley)

“Taken While Watching TV For the Millionth Time” (Ellen Wentworth)

“Garden Gate” (Jo Ann Davidson)

Untitled (Karen Weingarten)

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