The Westport Country Playhouse suggests perhaps the largest group ever, for this week’s Unsung Heroes award: their holiday audiences.
During last month’s run of “A Sherlock Carol,” Playhouse patrons offered significant donations and support for 3 area charities.
More than 12 boxes in the lobby were filled with donations of food for Homes with Hope.
Westport’s homeless shelter and food pantry says, “it means so much when local organizations step up to support our mission, especially during the winter months when the need is high and community support matters most. We’re grateful to be part of a town that continues to show up for its neighbors.”
Homes with Hope volunteers, with Westport Country Playhouse audience donations.
Audiences also donated hundreds of new toys and books for Norwalk Toys for Tots.
Meanwhile, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp benefited from audience cash and online contributions. The total — $10,835.53 — will send 4 youngsters there this summer.
The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp has special meaning for the Playhouse. It was created by Paul Newman, who during his 50 years in Westport — with his wife Joanne Woodward — was also a generous WCP supporter.
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
Posted onSeptember 20, 2025|Comments Off on Roundup: Crafts, Cards, Kids …
CraftWestport — the annual Westport Young Woman’s League fundraiser that traditionally kicks off the holiday season — returns to the Staples High School fieldhouse this year, with new dates.
Over 165 artists and makers will show their wares on December 6 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and December 7 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Called “the longest-running indoor fine craft festival in Connecticut,” it includes handmade works in jewelry, fashion, home decor, ceramics, furniture, photography and art. Click here for details.
================================================
Staples juniors Jonah Bomback, Peter Klopfer and Asher Vengrow — passionate athletes and young entrepreneurs — have combined their love for trading cards with a desire to make a difference.
Their business, Cardz Against Cancer, is about more than buying, selling and collecting sports cards. The boys donate 50% of all proceeds to the fight against childhood cancers, through Yale Smilow Cancer Hospital.
Since launching in August, they have raised $500 from card sales, and several thousand dollars through a direct donation link on their website.
Last weekend, the trio participated in the Northeast Sports Card Expo at Chelsea Piers in Stamford. They are available for private events too.
The curtain rises on the Westport Country Playhouse children’s education program, Playhouse Playmakers, on October 12.
The 6-week program is for grades 6-8. Students will create an original play — including writing, acting, rehearsing — and production, culminating with a performance on the Playhouse stage for family and friends.
Playhouse Playmakers runs 7 Sundays, through November 23 (1 to 4 p.m.).
The fee of $575 including technical rehearsal, materials, and 4 tickets to the performance. Scholarships are available, including transportation reimbursement.
The Staples boys varsity golf team set a record on Thursday, shooting 5 under par.
Charlie Curran, Philip Sullivan, Chris Taylor and Gus Palmer each contributed to a combined score of 135.
The team remains undefeated, and at the top of the FCIAC league. Individually, both Palmer and Sullivan are ranked top 10 in the FCIAC. Palmer is. Sullivan 7th.
From left: Jordan Benaderet, Philip Sullivan, Gus Palmer, Chris Taylor, Lukas Snow, Charlie Curran.
The recent death of Robert Redford has brought a flood of memories of his friendship with Paul Newman.
Bill Dedman sends along a 2015 interview with Redford. At the 2:34 mark, he tells a long, funny tale about the practical jokes he and Newman played on each other, when both lived in Westport. Click here or below to see.
The history of agriculture, manufacturing and textile production in this area during the 19th and early 20th centuries is on display in a new interactive exhibit, “Weston at Work,” at the Weston History & Culture Center.
Children can card wool, weave on a loom, use a rope and pulley to raise a hay bale, and more. The exhibit includes hands-on activities, rare tools, farming implements, a working loom and historic images.
It highlights the many people — including immigrants, African Americans, women and children who helped put Weston to work.
The opening is October 5 (1 to 4 p.m.). Admission is free; donations are welcome.
“Weston at Work” is then open every Thursday (1 to 4 p.m.) and Sundays, November 2 and December 7 (1 to 4 p.m.). $5 for adults, $3 for children 5 – 17, free for members and children 4 and under.
=================================================
Another bobcat sighting. This one was Thursday, in the Old Road area:
On Wednesday, noted constitutional scholar and Yale professor Akhil Reed Amar spoke to a packed Westport Library crowd about his new book “Born Equal: Remaking America’s Constitution.”
After his remarks, he chatted with Staples We the People teacher Suzanne Kammerman. The professor was impressed to hear the school placed 8th in the nation at last year’s competition last year.
Kammerman hopes to have Amar speak to her class later this year.
Suzanne Kammerman and Professor Akhil Reed Amar. (Hat tip and photo/Danielle Dobin)
=================================================
Speaking of Staples: The Institution Saint Joseph in Le Havre, France has invited the high school to the Normandy International Youth Leadership Summit in November. Delegates are high performing students interested in world affairs.
Josephine Caricato, Ignacy Nieweglowski and Jori Altman will join peers from around the world, in the international event.
From left: Josephine Caricato, Ignacy Nieweglowski, Jori Altman.
Wells Preston — a member of Staples High School’s Class of 2004 — died last month. He was 40 years old.
His love of the outdoors began at Camp Keewaydin in Canada. In high school he honed his skills on NOLS trips in the Cascade Range. He returned as an adult, to summit its highest peaks.
Wells learned to sail at Longshore Sailing School, then raced at Tabor Academy. He later taught sailing and kiteboarding.
He studied creative writing, literature and religion at Eckerd College. He taught English at a St. Petersburg, Florida high school, where he met his future wife Christine Lupo.
They moved to Seattle in 2010, lured by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Four years later they relocated to Portland.
They roamed far and wide in a camper van, from Alberta to Baja Mexico. They traveled over 30,000 miles in 2 years, visiting every national park west of the Rockies.
His family says, “In his photos -– as in the stories he shared of hiking, climbing, skiing, fishing, kiteboarding, and simply breathing the air in these majestic places –- Wells made you feel his reverence for nature and the spirituality it stirred in him.”
He was also an excellent cook.
Wells is survived by his wife Chrissy; sisters Regan and Lilly; brothers-in-law Jordan, Nik and James; sisters-in-law Meghan and Sally, and 6 nieces.
And finally … on this date in 1973, Jim Croce and 5 other people were killed when their light aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff in Louisiana.
(Where else but “06880” can you read about upcoming events and Westport’s youth, and remember Robert Redford and Jim Croce — all in one place. So please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
The death of Robert Redford earlier this week reminded many Westporters of his long friendship with fellow actor Paul Newman.
Many residents recalled encounter with the pair here, at hangouts like the Ship’s Lantern bar and Tavern on Main restaurant.
But Newman entertained at least one other superstar, as these undated photos posted to social media by Christopher Maroc show.
Paul Newman, in the backyard of his North Avenue home, with Tom Cruise …
… and in the nearby Aspetuck River.
(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
Our “Historic Homes of 06880” tour returns for a third great year!
Save the date: Sunday, November 2 (1 to 4 p.m.).
Once again, we’ll open 4 beautiful — and very different — homes to the public. You’ll see loving restorations, creative touches, and some very cool surprises.
Once again, we’re working with KMS Team at Compass to present this fun (and very popular) event.
The 4 homes will be revealed soon. See you November 2!
This Cross Highway barn was part of our 2023 “Historic Homes of 06880” tour. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Want to help shape the future of Westport’s parks?
As part of the Parks Master Plan process, the Parks & Recreation Department hosts a public workshop on September 30 (6 p.m., Westport Library). All community members are invited. It will be run by the town’s consultants, BL Companies.
The Town’s consultant, BL Companies, will provide residents with the opportunity to engage directly with the consultants, share feedback, and learn more about the planning process.
If you’re between the ages of 6 and 18, and you play music — or want to — or you’re the parent of someone who does, check out the Music Collective’s open house this weekend (September 20-21, 3 to 6 p.m.; 1572 Post Road East).
The Collective (formerly the Gig Center) looks forward to showing off its space. Instructors will be there, attendees can try out some instruments. Or sing into a mic.
Jim Savage plays boogie-woogie piano on Saturday (September 20, 6-9 p.m.).
And a Veterans Benefits Luncheon is set for September 25 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.). It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.
Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.
RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.
PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!
Mark Shanahan has earned standing ovations as the Westport Country Playhouse artistic director.
But he works his magic away from the local stage too.
Shanahan is the writer and director of the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp’s annual Fandango Benefit Gala. It’s this Saturday night, at the Ashford camp in northeastern Connecticut. Shanahan took over the role from the Playhouse’s Anne Keefe, several years ago.
The Playhouse is a strong supporter of the event.
The camp — which creates joy and community for seriously ill children and their families — shares a long bond with the WCP.
Westporters Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward supported both institutions generously. Many Playhouse staff members volunteer at Hole in the Wall throughout the year.
The Playhouse also raises funds for the Camp every December, through audience donations at “A Sherlock Carol.”
Club203 kicked off the 2025-26 year in style Tuesday, at Weston’s Lachat Farm.
Members of Westport’s social club for adults with disabilities kicked up their heels, danced with Marca, and enjoyed great food catered by Carmine Cenatiempo of Calise’s Deli.
MOCA offered art projects, Skip’s Good Humor ice cream added dessert, and the volunteers helped everyone make the most of the great Lachat setting.
Art by MoCA, at Club203. (Photo/Stacie Curran)
=================================================
Heating season (and heating bills) are near.
Fortunately, beginning October 1 income-eligible Westport residents can apply for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program.
Those who previously qualified for assistance through Westport’s Department of Human Services will receive application instructions in the mail. Residents wishing to apply for the first time should call 203-341-1050 or email humansrv@westportct.gov.
To qualify, household income must be at or below 60% of the state median income. The maximum income for households is:
Households of one (1) $47,764
Households of two (2) $62,460
Households of three (3) $77,157
Households of four (4) $91,854
Households of Five (5) $106,550.
Applicants must have recent copies of heating, electric, water, lease or mortgage statements, and other proof of income documents.
On Saturday, 1,500 guests will enjoy lobster, steak, veggie burgers, all the trimmings, beer and wine and other beverages — plus music, kids’ activities and much more — at the Westport Rotary Club’s annual LobsterFest.
At Tuesday’s weekly meeting, longtime member and LobsterFest maestro Rick Benson updated members on logistics. All hands will be on deck, raising $400,000 for charitable organizations in Fairfield County and abroad.
Rick Benson, and his map.
Rotarians also heard from Wendy Petty. The Senior Center director said that 25% of Fairfield County residents are over the age of 65. The Center has seen a commensurate increase in membership over the past few years.
The Senior Center hosts over 100 classes each week, along with a tech hub, nutrition program, and a quarterly veterans’ coffee.
Wendy Petty (Photos/Dave Matlow)
================================================
Westport’s other Rotary Club — Sunrise — celebrates International Day of Peace this Sunday (September 21, 2 p.m.), by sharing peace through music and humor.
The event — “Songs and Reflections on Peace, Kindness and Fun” features performances by the Whirled Peas Band, with members from area Rotary clubs and special guests David Friedman, Shawn Moninger, Eric Šebek and Samantha Talora.
There is a great back story to today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.
But first, marvel at this creature:
(Photo/Seth Schachter)
Seth Schachter encountered this massive reptile yesterday on Maple Lane, near Burying Hill Beach.
A neighbor helped him get it to safety. Otherwise, Seth is sure it would have been struck by a car.
Turtles can live well beyond 100 years. This guy might have been roaming Greens Farms at the dawn of the automobile age.
Seth and his neighbor used a broom and a large blue recycling bin — something that was definitely not around when the turtle was born — to move it along.
And finally … sure, we honored this group just the other day, when Mark Volman died.
But thanks to the item above, they’re worth revisiting, with a different song:
(If you enjoy “06880,” we hope you’ll be part of our November 2 “Historic Homes” tour. We also hope you will click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution supporting our work. Thank you!)
Years ago, the tenant in one of Westport’s most prominent buildings – most recently leased by Patagonia – was Westport Bank & Trust Company. Their motto was “A hometown bank, in a town of homes.”
The next tenant will sell those homes.
Next spring, Compass Westport will move into the red brick space with 20-foot ceilings (87 Post Road East, at the junction of Church Lane). The real estate firm is currently across the Saugatuck River, at 54 Wilton Road.
Their “new” building was built in 1924 — a year after the Westport YMCA (now Anthropologie), a few yards away. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The bank vault downstairs has been repurposed as space for Pink Sumo restaurant, which will remain.
Two large murals by noted artist Robert Lambdin — a handsome backdrop in the bank, and retained by Patagonia — will continue to be displayed.
The Patagonia building has been vacant since Christmas Eve, 2023. The Westport location opened in 2005.
87 Post Road East recently …
… and as Westport Bank & Trust on Christmas Day, 1975. (Photo/Fred Cantor)
Hollywood — and the world — is mourning the death of Robert Redford.
Westport and Weston residents are remembering him as a neighbor. He lived in this area for a while, and visited frequently with his great friend and frequent co-star, Paul Newman.
Twenty years ago, they settled into the Westport Country Playhouse’s red velvet seats, and were filmed for a Sundance Channel documentary, “Iconoclasts.”
Paul Newman and Robert Redford. (Photo courtesy of Westport Country Playhouse)
If you have a local memory of Redford, click “Comments” below.
=================================================
They’re all over the place. You can’t ignore them. And there will be more to come.
No, not spotted lanternflies.
Political signs.
What — if any — are the regulations regarding those ubiquitous placards?
Free speech (including political signs) is protected. It is not regulated by zoning — unlike signs advertising businesses and special events (which are regulated).
These general guidelines apply to all temporary signs (including political ones):
No sign may be placed on any public school property without permission from the superintendent’s office.
No sign may be placed within the interior of Compo Beach or Longshore Club Park.
No sign may be placed on Town Hall property.
No sign may be placed on trees or utility poles.
No sign may interfere with traffic visibility.
PS: Do not steal political signs! You may not agree with another candidate, but that’s not cool.
Political — and non-profit — signs from a past election.
“Hot Sauce Hangout” (September 24, 6:30 p.m.; $40): Learn to make your own from farm fresh produce, with music and a nosh.
“Friday Fun for Kids” (September 26, 5 to 6:30 p.m.; $65): Grill and chill cooking class; ages 7-12. After gathering herbs and veggies from the garden: marinated grilled chicken, corn skewers, baked potato bar, and apple fritters.
“Family Fall Beer Garden (October 12, noon to 4 p.m.; $15 adults, kids free; food beverage, crafts available to purchase; proceeds benefit WTF educational programs). Music, lawn games, bubbles, animal encounters, pumpkin crafts and more. Pizza by Tony Napolitano; Food Truck Refinery; gelato from Fatto a Mano; adult beverages from Greens Farms Spirit Shop.
Rach’s Hope — the non-profit honoring the memory of 2015 Staples High School graduate Rachel Doran, which provides nutritious food, lodging, transportation and encouragement to family members when a child is in intensive care — is as active as Rachel herself was.
On Sunday, October 5 (3 p.m., Ned Dimes Marina at Compo Beach), everyone is invited to join the 5th annual “Walk the Extra Mile … For Rach’s Hope” event.
It’s a fun, community-wide beach walk, with live music, a pizza truck, beer and wine, dessert, and special Rach’s Hope swag.
Need more incentive? In celebration of his 84th birthday, Rachel’s grandfather Michael Isenberg completed his pledge to walk 1,000 miles for Rach’s Hope.
He’ll be there. He invites everyone to “walk the extra mile” with him — or come cheer others on.
And finally … on this date in 1630, the city of Boston was founded.
(Whether Westport’s your home — or Boston, or anywhere else — you’re here because you enjoy “06880.” But publishing this blog every day takes work! Please click here to support us. Thank you!)
One of Westport’s favorite restaurants will soon become a different favorite spot.
On August 16, Don Memo will serve its last meal. In early September, it reopens as Massi Co.
Named after owner Massimo Tullio, and backed by the Don Memo oand Whelk team, the new restaurant in the iconic stone building (Westport’s original Town Hall) will feature a “deeply personal Italian-American” concept
It will include Neapolitan brick oven pizzas, house-made pastas and craft cocktails. Chef Zach Hinman is in charge of the kitchen. (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)
Massimo Tullio (Photo courtesy of The Connecticut Edit)
=================================================
For as long as the Merritt Parkway has existed — nearly 90 years — Westport has had 2 exits: 41 and 42.
Soon, they’ll be gone.
In their place will be Exits 20 and 21.
The new numbers conform to federal standards, which mandate that exits show the approximate mileage from a starting point. With the Merritt, that’s the New York border.
New signs will be installed on the parkway beginning July 28. There will also be signs noting the “old exit” numbers. They’ll be in place for at least 2 years.
Other state highways have already been renumbered. The “Connecticut Turnpike” (I-95) will follow, either next year or in 2027.
So say goodbye to the Exit 42 cluster****. Soon, it will be the mess at Exit 21.
And Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department wants to make sure no one misses out on any action. For example:
Beach volleyball:Middle and high schoolers, all levels. Led by Brendan Giolitto, Staples High School coach.
Youth tennis (including peewees): All levels; fundamentals, technique and match play.
Swim lessons: Beginners and advanced; Stroke development, water safety and confidence.
Football skills and drills: Non-contact; focusing on speed, agility and position-specific drills. Led by LST Pro staff.
Baseball: Hitting, fielding, base running and teamwork; led by LST, in partnership with Westport Little League.
Tot N’ Play Camp: A week of sports, crafts, beach time and class camp, for pre-schoolers. Flexible scheduling, with a focus on friendship, teamwork and adventure.
Skyhaws Volleyball: Fundamentals like passing, setting, hitting and serving, in a fun, beginner-friendly environment.
Next Generation Skateboarding: From beginners to advanced: skate and shred safely and confidently.
The Grit Ninja: Obstacle courses challenge youngsters physically and mentally; build strength, agility and grit in an exciting, supportive setting.
Squirt & Parent ‘n’ Me programs: Introduce little ones to soccer, t-ball, lacrosse, track and field and more, with a helping hand. Build confidence and coordination in a playful, comforting environment.
Outdoor Fitness with Andrew Berman: An invigorating bodyweight workout class at Compo Beach. Focus on strength, balance and mobility, in a beautiful setting.
Jay Schadler is a noted journalist, photographer and artist.
For more than 3 decades he traveled the world as a correspondent and anchor for ABC News, “20/20,” “Nightline,” “Good Morning America,” National Geographic TV and others. His work has been featured too on Bravo and Discovery.
His new gig: podcaster, with Verso Studios at the Westport Library. Through intimate interviews, he tells stories of Westporters’ life transitions.
Many names are familiar. The 5 episodes in Season 1 include living a life with no memory, with Doug and Patti Brill; the grief of loss and the gift of love with Jenny and Anthony Capalbo; a new heart and a new life with Gerardo Lambert; turning tragedy into legacy with Jim Kudzo, and exploring talent and opportunity with Andrew Wilk.
In Westport, Paul Newman’s home overlooked the Aspetuck River. His New York apartment has a view of Central Park’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. (Photo/Evan Joseph Studios, courtesy of the Wall Street Journal)
Hitch & the Giddyup are heading to Weston. Yee haw!
The country/bluegrass/soulful American band plays at “Music at the Barn” — the Weston History & Culture Center’s outdoor summer series — on July 27 (5:30 p.m.).
Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for non-members; children under 12; click here or purchase there. Bring a lawn chair, food and drinks (no food truck!).
Francesca “Franny” Cenatiempo died at home, surrounded by her family. She was 33, and hahd battled cancer.
Francesca was born on July 4th, 1992 to Carmine and Sandra. At age 7 she was enrolled in Saint Catherine Academy; then as an adult, at Saint Catherine Center for Special Needs.
She loved school and her program, and was celebrated, cared for and loved by the staff. She was surrounded by friends who reciprocated her unique love. At Saint Catherine Francesca met her longtime caregiver, Sonia Vielot, who became an integral part of her family.
Her obituary says, “Francesca had a gift for deeply touching the lives of everyone she met. She greeted people with open arms, accompanied by the biggest hug and an unforgettable smile. Her laughter echoed everywhere she went, as she saw the beauty and joy in every person and part of this world. She was a pasta lover, a Disney fanatic, and had an eye for all the cute boys. She enjoyed music, dancing, and splashing around at the beach.”
Francesca is survived by her loving parents, Carmine and Sandra Calise Cenatiempo; siblings CJ and Charlotte Cenatiempo; grandparents Michael Calise, Sally Palmer and Barbara Mehle; aunts and uncles Filippo and Pina Cenatiempo, Leonardo Cenatiempo, Alfredo and Rosa Cenatiempo, Stefano Cenatiempo, Giulio and Gabby Cenatiempo, Catherine and Don Lawson, Maria and Jon O’Herron, Bettina and Michael Colleen, and Frank and Robin Calise, and many cousins.
A celebration of her life is set for tomorrow (July 12, 11 a.m., St. Francis of Assisi, Weston). Donations may be made in her name to Saint Catherine Center for Special Needs. Condolences for the family may be left online.
Francesca Cenatiempo
=============================================
Frances Mande — a Westporter for nearly 70 years — died Wednesday. She was 103.
Born in Russia in 1922, she came to Brooklyn with her family when she was 7. She and her husband Irving met when she was 17, and married when she was 19.
Fran and Irv moved to Westport in 1956. They raised 3 children in the house where she lived until passing. The couple traveled the world together, until Irv’s death in 2006.
Fran loved attending shows at the Westport Country Playhouse, and taking her children and grandchildren to Compo Beach and Mario’s restaurant. She was a regular at the Senior Center, Westport Library and Levitt Pavilion.
She also enjoyed the Westport Road Runners program. Her photo was in the Westport News after finishing a 10-mile race, in her 70s.
After “06880” wished her a happy birthday last month, she was lifted up by emails from readers.
A funeral is set for Sunday (July 13, 10 a.m., Temple Israel of Westport). Shiva will be held at her home. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Westport Library or Westport Senior Center.
Like any good mother, this one fed her little one:
Johanna Keyser Rossi — who took today’s spectacular “Westport … Naturally” image near Fresh Market — reports, “She fed him for a long time. So I assume there is only one baby osprey.”
And finally … in honor of the new Merritt Parkway numbering system: This is the closest I could get.
(Whether you live in the 06880, 25 miles away, or 2,500, if you’re reading this, you’re part of our great online community. Thank you — and thanks too for clicking here, to support our work!)
For many years, Paul Newman was an ardent Westport Country Playhouse supporter — publicly, and behind the scenes.
That was just one of his many philanthropic passions. The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp — founded by the actor/race car driver/salad and lemonade king to provide opportunities for children with cancer and other serious illnesses to experience the joys of summer camp — has since evolved into a year-round, transformational program for thousands of children and their families.
For the last 2 winters, the Playhouse has collected audience donations during “A Sherlock Carol” to support camperships. For many years, they have also donated to the camp through their internal Sunshine Fund.
But several staff members wanted to become more actively involved. Bruce Miller, Playhouse archivist and long-time Hole in the Wall Gang camp volunteer, learned of “Helping Hands Work Days,” when groups help prepare for the summer.
Last week, Playhouse staff lent their hands.
Twelve people — led by artistic director Mark Shanahan — headed to the camp in Ashford, near Storrs. They cleared trails, cleaned yurts, spread gravel and prepped equipment.
Paul Newman died in 2008. But his spirit — at the Playhouse, and the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp — lives on.
And the Westport Country Playhouse is making sure it will continue, for many years to come.
From left: Maggie Meath, Andrea Quiles, Matthew Melchiore, Kelly Richards Mikolasy, Brad Baldwin, Lisa Ficco, Bruce miller, Beth Miller, Markk Shanahan, Beth Huisking, Rick Davis, Molly Sackett.
(“06880” is proud to honor Unsung Heroes — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to support your hyper-local blog.)
The Post Road storefront facing Main Street is perhaps Westport’s prime location.
It’s been many things: Colgan’s and Thompson’s drug stores. Ships restaurant. Eddie Bauer.
Now it’s Tiffany.
But for how long?
Admiral Real Estate Services is marketing the property, under the headline: “The BEST Locations in Downtown Westport! Current Tiffany & Co. Site!”
The listing reads: “New for lease: Prime ground floor retail space in Westport, CT. Current Tiffany & Co. End-cap corner retail with exceptional visibility at signalized intersection.”
The 5,580-square foot location offers “ample natural light, parking directly in rear, corner building with massive frontage … various uses permitted.”
In bold letters, it adds: “Parking is free, nearby, and vast. A large municipal lot can be found adjacent to the building on Jesup Road and in the Parker Harding Plaza located across the street behind Starbucks. Street parking is also available around the building.”
Van Leeuwen — the New York-based, national made-from-scratch dairy and vegan brand — opens its Church Lane scoop shop next Thursday (February 6, noon).
Their 4th Connecticut location marks a return for co-founders Ben and Pete Van Leeuwen. The Fairfield County natives’ ice cream journey began here 20 years ago.
To celebrate, Van Leeuwen Westport will offer $1 scoops on opening day from 3 to 5 p.m., and free totes to the first 100 customers beginning at 3.
The shop will also showcase a special limited offering created by Westport cookbook author and creator Julia Dzafic. The vegan sundae features scoops of strawberry shortcake ice cream and banana pudding ice cream, topped with sprinkles, hot fudge and sugar cone.
Other flavors include honeycomb, brown sugar cookie dough brownie, Earl Gray tea, praline butter cake, marionberry cheesecake, black cherry chip, Sicilian pistachio, bigface coffe affogato and sour cherry creamsicle.
=================================================
With a month to go before Fashionably Westport kicks off, over 30 fashion retailers and hair salons have already signed on.
The entertainment list grows too. Westport’s own Drew Angus — now a national perform — will join the fun.
This year’s 5th annual event is Friday, February 28 (7 p.m., Westport Library). Sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association, it’s a benefit for Homes with Hope. The evening includes a silent auction.
Models are local friends and celebrities. The emcee and runway director are neighbors too: Dave Briggs and Carey Price, respectively.
Americans of a certain generation remember Dick Button fondly.
Some recall his illustrious. double Olympic gold-winning figure skating career. Far more known him as the sport’s foremost television commentator, honed over 6 decades of Olympics and other high level competitions.
Totney Benson has more intimate memories. Button — who died Tuesday in North Salem, New York at 95 — was her uncle.
His full name was Richard Totten Button — named in honor of his grandmother. The longtime Westporter’s name is Totney Button Benson.
Dick Button visited the Bensons’ Compo Hill home for holiday celebrations and other events over the past 45 years.
The curtain rises tonight for the 3rd show of Westport Community Theatre’s 2025-26 season.
“Pride and Prejudice” runs Saturdays (7:30 p.m.) and Sundays (2 p.m.), from January 31 through February 9, plus Thursday, February 6 at 7:30 (Town Hall; tickets are $30).
This adaptation captures the spirit of Jane Austen’s 1813 masterpiece with a lively, modern rhythm that stays true to the heart of the original.
Paul Newman would have been 100 years old this week.
To honor the actor/race car driver/philanthropist/longtime Westporter’s legacy, Newman’s Own launched “Paul Newman Generosity Day.”
As part of the celebration at Newman’s Own offices on Morningside Drive North, Andy Ortega created a 4-foot tall cake. It was decorated with a replica of the original salad dressing bottle.
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between January 22 and 29. Both were for failure to appear: a 56-year-old Westport man and 44-year-old Bridgeport woman.
Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 22 citations
Failure to obey stop signs: 11
Speeding: 9
Driving while texting: 6
Operating a motor vehicle while under suspension: 6
Failure to renew registration: 6
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 5
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
Improper use of markers: 3
Passing a standing school bus: 1
School zone violation: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to drive in proper lane: 1
Improper turns: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Illeal operation of motor vehicle — limited license: 1
This bus driver makes sure no one will pass. Passing a standing school bus is a definite no-no. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)
Westport resident Sophie Coquaz died peacefully on Tuesday, surrounded by family and friends. She was 52.
She was born and grew up in southeast France. She studied economics at the University of Lyon, and the University of Reading, in the UK.
In 1994 she pursued a master’s degree at the University of Delaware. She moved to New York and Connecticut to start her professional life, and met her husband Emmanuel.
They married in 2001, with weddings in France and Greece. In 2005 they relocated to London for career opportunities. They spent 5 years there, where their 4 children were born, before returning to New York.
Sophie worked for Thomson Reuters in commercial and legal operations positions for 24 years. She joined Estée Lauder in 2020, and served as vice president in the office of general counsel and legal operations.
She enjoyed travelling to France and Greece for summer holidays. Years after her classes of classic dance, she retained the grace of a ballet dancer.
Sophie is survived by her husband Emmanuel Saounatsos; children Zélie, Madeleine, Aurel and Sidonie; mother Danielle; brother Régis; nephews Mahel and Antoine, and niece Alice.
A wake will be held at Harding Funeral Home this Saturday (February 1, 2 to 6 p.m.). In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Regional Hospice in Danbury,
Christmas is pretty far in the rear view mirror. It’s amost February, believe it or not.
But a small vestige of the holiday remains at Grace Salmon Park. Johanna Keyser Rossi captured the colorful contrast, in a fir tree, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … Marianne Faithfull, whose life included years as a singer, “muse and girlfriend of Mick Jagger,” homeless heroin addict, actor and cabaret performer, died yesterday in London. She was 78.
Her first hit, “As Tears Go By,” is often said to be the first original composition by Rolling Stones Jagger and Keith Richards (now a Weston resident). (Stones’ manager Andrew Loog Oldham — who formerly lived in Westport — was attracted by her beauty, and asked her if she could sing.)
Click here for a full obituary. (Perhaps the most interesting line: “Her mother, Eva von Sacher-Masoch, was a Viennese baroness, an ex-ballet dancer and a descendant of Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, author of the erotic novel Venus in Furs,’ which spawned the term masochism.”)
(As today’s Roundup — and every day’s — shows, “06880” is truly “where Westport meets the world.” Please click here to support your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)
So it was a natural place for John Recine to propose to her.
What he didn’t expect was that — as he popped the question, on the PAL Ice Rink — a skating stranger would capture the moment on camera.
Amy was there with Ali, her 22-year-old daughter, and Johnny’s daughter Angela and boyfriend Zach (visiting from Austin).
The happy couple have not set a date or place yet. No one asked me, but I can think of a great spot very close to that rink …
From left: Zach Springer, Angela Recine, Amy Feder, Johnny Recine, Ali Feder. (Photo/A random but great stranger)
================================================–
As a large new house rises near Schlaet’s Point, anoather big house will not be built a few yards away.
The Zoning Board of Appeals has denied an application for a 36-foot tall house at 238 Hillspoint Road. The proposed 2,200-square foot structure would have replaced a one-story cottage, built in 1920.
The current home at 238 Hillspoint Road.
================================================
On January 26, Paul Newman would have been 100 years old.
In his honor, Newman’s Own — the philanthropy started in Westport, where the actor/race car driver/humanitarian lived for over 50 years — will launch “Paul Newman Generosity Day.”
First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, local officials and celebrities will gather at the Newman’s Own office on the Post Road at Morningside Road North for an afternoon of “celebration and generosity.”
Newman’s Own will unveil the “100 Acts of Generosity Challenge.” Participants will perform acts of kindness, share stories, and inspire others to do the same on social media.
Richard Huntley is an internist/primary care doctor in Norwalk, and a Westport resident since 1988.
In 2023 he got a chance to do charitable medical work. He traveled to Kenya to screen for high blood pressure (Africa has the highest rate of hypertension globally.
80% of hypertension cases in Kenya are unrecognized, and only 10% is treated. Only 2% of the population has health insurance, so most people focus on illness rather than preventive care.
Dr. Huntley first worked in rural areas of Kenya. In 2024 he volunteered in Kibera — Africa’s largest slum, with over a million people.
He has partnered with Crossing Thresholds, a New Canaan-based nonprofit, to start a clinic to screen and treat high blood pressure. He organized a fundraiser to provide hypertension medications. For more information on the project, and donate, click here.
=================================================
After leading Williams College to a 3-0 record, and averaging 22.7 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.7 steals per game, senior captain (and 2021 Staples High School graduate) Arianna Gerig was named New England Small College Athletic Conference Player of the Week honors.
She was also selected for the First Team of the Week, the New England Women’s Basketball Association. (Hat tip: Don Kubie)
Arianna Gerig
===============================================
David Kaplan started his movie-making career the way you always hear it should be done: in the mailroom of a Los Angeles talent agency.
“The Brutalist” — backed by Kaplan Morrison, Kaplan’s New York-based production company — won 3 awards Sunday night, including Best Motion Picture – Drama. (Hat tip: Adam Friedland)
David Kaplan
==============================================
Andrew Wilk is a Big Name in entertainment.
The Westporter is a 5-time Emmy Award-winning executive producer and director of network television. He has worked with Itzhak Perlman, Yo-Yo Ma, Joshua Bell, Renee Fleming, Audra McDonald and Kelli O’Hara.
He is also a noted stage director and writer. But symphony conducting remains his first love. He is a frequent musical director and conductor at the Paper Mill Playhouse, and been involved with the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra and New Jersey Symphony Orchestra.
On May 17, Wilk will be at Waterbury’s Palace Theater. He will conduct the Waterbury Symphony Orchestra for a night of music and memories, celebrating 20 years of Broadway musicals.
The show will include musical numbers from “The Phantom of the Opera,”
“Ragtime,” “Evita” and “Dreamgirls,” plus “Over the Rainbow,” “Memory” and “Tomorrow.”
Jazz lovers packed the Westport Library last night, for a tribute to Duke Ellington.
Roger Kaufman’s Old School Review brought together the Smithsonian Museum’s Dr. John Edward Hasse, an Ellington expert; the New York All Star Big Band, and vocalist Audrey Martells.
It was a powerful evening, filling the Trefz Forum with all that jazz.
Audrey Martells, and the New York All Star Big Band. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)
=================================================
Want to buy Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward’s home?
No, not their Westport place.
According to the New York Times, their New York City penthouse at 1120 Fifth Avenue is on the market.
Purchased over 40 years ago, the asking price is $9.95 million. Monthly maintenance is $13,078. Click here for more information (and very cool photos). (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)
The view from Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward’s apartment. (Photo/Evan Joseph Studios, courtesy of the New York Times)
=================================================
Marcy Sansolo’s “What Up Westport” Facebook page is fun, quirky and popular.
Marcy has created a great community there. And part of celebrating the town is giving back.
Recently, Marcy invited Westporters to show up at the Imperial Avenue parking lot on a Saturday morning, with gifts for kids who need them.
Plenty did.
Marcy calls it a “social experiment.” I call it “one more reason to appreciate this town, and the very generous people in it.”
Marcy Sansolo, with a few of the many contributed gifts. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
=================================================
In 2020, Stephen Panus suffered through a parent’s worst nightmore. His 16-year-old son Jake was killed in a motor vehicle crash on Block Island.
The Southport resident and turned his journey of pain into purpose. His book “Walk On” describes overcoming adversity, and finding strength in vulnerability.
On Wednesday (December 11, 7 p.m., Westport Library), he and Fox Sports journalist/Westport resident Lindsay Czarniak will
Joining Panus for a conversation about Walk On is Westport’s own Lindsay Czarniak of Fox Sports, will talk about his memoir, and take questions from audience members. Click here for more information.
Speaking of books: Westporter Paul Podolsky has just published “The Uncomfortable Truth About Money: How to Live with Uncertainty and Think for Yourself.”
Podolsky says, “it boils down everything I learned about money in a letter to my kids.” Click here for more details, including ordering information.
And finally … in honor of Paul Podolsky’s new book (story above):
(Speaking of which … “06880” relies on reader support. We could not do what we do without you. If you enjoy our hyper-local blog, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
