Tag Archives: rainbow

Roundup: Staples Players & Sports, Cribari Lights, Restaurant News …

Posted on November 14, 2025 | 4 comments

Staples Players’ big, bold, brassy — and spectacular — 10-show run of “Les Misérables” opened last night.

A cast of over 70 — costumed to the hilt, singing lustily on a revolving set, backed by a superb pit of nearly 30 musicians — awed the audience, with every aspect of the production.

If you’ve never seen a Players show: Go now!

Even if you’re an aficionado, you’ll be blown away by this one.

A few tickets are still available, for this weekend and next (including evenings and matinees). Click here for dates, times, and purchase and more information.

NOTE: The link above is the only place to buy tickets. Two people arrived last night, with tickets bought on StubHub. Let’s hope the person who was so sleazy as to try to profit off a high school drama program ends up like some of the revolutionaries at the start of Act 2.

A small portion of the large “Les Mis” cast. (Photo/Kerry Long)

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From the stage to the playing fields, there’s a lot going on with Staples this weekend.

Tomorrow, the field hockey team shoots for its third straight state championship. For the third year in a row, the opponent is archrival Darien.

Saturday’s 15 title match is set for 2:30 p.m. at Wethersfield High School.

On Sunday, the boys soccer team vies for their 13th state championship. They too face a Fairfield County opponent, with a long rivalry: Greenwich.

Kickoff is 3:30 p.m., at Hartford’s Trinity Health Stadium.

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A beloved tradition — holiday lights on the Cribari Bridge — nearly ended last year.

A quarter century of sponsorship by Al’s Angels ended. At the last minute, Westport’s Police Athletic League rallied businesses and individuals to buy new lights, install them, and once again make the Saugatuck span sparkle.

PAL took the lead again this year. They’re even getting a jump on the season.

A holiday lighting ceremony is set for this Sunday (6:30 p.m.). Everyone is invited.

The Whelk will serve hot chocolate, topped with a marshmallow whipped cream rim from Momu.

Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy, for the Westport Police Department collection drive.

Let there be (Cribari) lights!

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For nearly 50 years, Bloodroot has served delicious vegan food — spiced with healthy amounts of feminist ideology, and a side helping of social justice-type books — in a funky, you’ve-got-to-know-it-to-get-there spot on Bridgeport’s Black Rock Harbor.

Co-founder and longtime Westporter Selma Miriam died in February, 2 weeks short of 90.

Bloodroot lived on. It was even the focus of a documentary.

Bloodroot is tucked away, off a residential street in Black Rock.

But nothing lasts forever. Bloodroot will close on December 21, after what co-owner Noel Furie calls “48 amazing and wonderful years in business. This decision, though sad, is also necessary given many factors in our lives at this time.

“We’ve chosen December 21 because it is the day of the Winter Solstice (which means sun standing still), and heralds the beginning of the return of the light. The days start to get longer and it is a time for hope and celebration.

“We hope you will continue to visit us during our usual business hours in the remaining weeks that we are open.”

Within hours, nearly 200 devastated, devoted and grateful diners posted thoughts and memories on Bloodroot’s Facebook page.

The restaurant/community center earned a special place in American women’s history. And none of it would have been possible without the passion, creativity, love and great energy of Westport’s own Selma Miriam. (Hat tip: Chris Grimm)

Selma Miriam, at Bloodroot in 2017.

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Speaking of restaurants: The Blondinit has earned raves — and a passionate following — since opening 20 months ago.

Now the Israeli spot on Church Lane has introduced a new winter menu.

Dishes include shawarma-spiced potato wedges topped with garlic sauce; wild caught Chilean sea bass with mushrooms, cannellini beans and spinach with a roasted red pepper sauce; erguez sausage with peppers; roasted eggplant and peppers spread with challah toast points; Shabbat schnitzel sandwich with eggplant and matbucha on challah bread, and baklava brûlée.

The other night, I enjoyed a tasting menu. I love the cuisine to begin with, but the flavors, freshness, variety and creativity — and the joy with which it is all prepared and served — brought the meal to another level.

That’s not just me talking. It was a Monday — normally the slowest day of the week, in a traditionally slow time before the holidays.

But the restaurant was packed.

Meanwhile, The Blondinit just announced its Hanukkah menu. Email catering@theblondinit.com or call (203) 557-3277 for details.

Dinner at The Blondinit.

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Sustainable Westport’s co-directors, Johanna Martell and Gately Ross, were recently featured on “The Joe Gardener Podcast.” The national platform explores sustainability through the lens of gardening.

The pair described how they left established careers to lead the local non-profit. They discussed the ripple effects of local action, how to foster change at the community level, and why personal voices and examples matter.

Host Joe Lamp’l praised their ability to connect with people where they are, making sustainability accessible rather than intimidating.

Click here to listen, and to read Lamp’ls account of his visit to Westport.

Johanna Martell, Gately Ross and Joe Lamp’l tape their podcast at Westport Library’s Verso Studios.

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Looking for one more way to help fight hunger?

The Westport Country Playhouse is collected food and toiletry items, for Homes with Hope.

Pasta, pasta sauce, cereal, oatmeal, peanut butter and jelly, canned goods (tuna, soup, vegetables, beans, fruit), toothpaste and shampoo may be left in a box in the lobby.

You can drop them off during the day, or before a show.

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

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Club203’s November event was a great “Bingo Bash” at the Senior Center.

Doug Brill called the games, for members of Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities.

Dedicated volunteers helped everyone be a winner. Trefz Corporation and Gold’s Deli were sponsors. MoCA\CT collaborated, as always. And once again, Westport’s Human Services Department provided important support.

Bingo!

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It didn’t rain yesterday.

But a beautiful rainbow appeared over Westport.

Adam Drake captured this image, over Winslow Park:

(Photo/Adam Drake)

It was also visible at — of all places — the rainbow crosswalk on Jesup Road:

(Photo/Svea Vocke)

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It’s a place every Westporters knows well, and loves dearly.

But we don’t always get to see it in mid-November.

June Rose Whittaker offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” image: timeless, yet timely, Compo Beach.

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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And finally … in honor of Bloodroot, and its 48-year legacy:

(If it’s happening in Westport — or there’s a Westporter involved — you’ll read about it on “06880.” And if you appreciate what you read, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: RTM & DPIC, “MOMents That Matter,” Drug Takeback Day …

Posted on April 25, 2024 | 7 comments

Two dozen electors have petitioned the Representative Town Meeting to appoint a committee to “review the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee’s plans for both Parker Harding and Jesup Green, the scope of the work and the associated costs; and to consider the merits and costs associated with feasible alternatives to what is being proposed by the DPIC, including a parking deck at the Baldwin lot; and to report its findings to the entire membership for such action as may be appropriate.”

The petitioners note “a great deal of concern and consternation among the citizenry surrounding the DPIC proposal, focused upon both the encroachment into Jesup Green and perceived flaws in the redesign of Parker Harding.”

RTM moderator Jeff Wieser has asked the RTM Rules Committee to review the petition prior to the full body’s May 7 meeting.

Wieser says that the RTM will take up that topic at the full meeting, along with the request for design funds to propose construction drawings for Jesup Green and the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

“Various committees have met regarding the design funds,” he notes. In addition, the RTM will have field trips next week at Jesup Green to review the proposed plans.

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It’s very appropriate: WestportMoms is hosting a Mother’s Day celebration — called “MOMents that Matter” — next Thursday (May 2, 6 to 10 p.m., Birchwood Country Club).

The event includes:

  • Mother’s Day shopping boutique with curated vendors
  • Panel discussion “rock star local moms” (including CNN anchor Alisyn Camerota, actress Stephanie Szostak, “Devil Wears Prada” author Lauren Weisberger, Melissa + Doug co-founder Melissa Bernstein and others) on balancing careers and motherhood, and the “MOMents That Matter.”
  • Gift bags for 50 attendees ($100 gift card to WEST, massage at Squeeze, and much more)
  • Appetizers from the new Birchwood chef, and cash bar.

Attendees are asked to bring a pack of feminine napkins, for women in need. The be donated to the Diaper Bank of Connecticut.

Tickets are $30. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Stacie Curran reports:

“What a wild nightyesterday at the Westport Library!

“Attendees from Club 203 members (our social group for adults with disabilities) and friends packed the Trefz Forum with a night of ‘speed friending; by TeenSLP (Staples High School’s speech and language expert Deirdre Flores), and rockin’ out with karaoke by our MC extraordinaire volunteer PJ Pitcher.

Thank you, Westport Library, for this incredible space. A special shout-out to associate director Alex Giannini, and the sound manager of Verso Studios, Travis Bell. You turned dreams into realty!”

Part of the Club 203 fun last night at the Westport Library.

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There’s a new addition to Saturday’s annual Drug Takeback Day (April 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Westport Senior Center).

A Wellness Fair — sponsored by Positive Directions — will take place, along with a collection by Westport Police and the Drug Enforcement Agency of tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs.

Syringes, sharps and illicit drugs are not accepted. Liquid products like cough syrup should remain sealed in their original container.

Residents can bring expired and unwanted medications for safe disposal, then stay for “wellness fun.”

The event includes a free behavioral health screening and blood pressure check, a sensory table for relaxation, and nutrition tips.

Prevention resources include drug awareness activities (drunk goggles, liquor stickers, lock bags, Narcan demonstration), tick and mosquito prevention resources, and gambling awareness materials.

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Prep work continues for the upcoming beach season.

It’s not pretty.

But — a few weeks from now — it will be worth it.

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

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Speaking of big vehicles: Dennis Wong was surprised this yesterday, near the Westport Library:

(Photo/Dennis Wong)

It’s not new. However, it is usually parked in the lower Westport Police parking lot, near EMS. It was moved, because the lot will be swept.

The vehicle is used for high water rescue incidents, during floods.

Hopefully it’s like insurance: We pay for it, but don’t want to ever use it.

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Speaking of police: The Westport PD made 6 custodial arrests between April 17 and 24.

A 26-year-old Bridgeport woman was arrested for larceny, illegal taking of a payment card, illegal use of a credit card exceeding $500, receipt from illegal use of a credit card, and identity theft, following complaint of fraudulent credit card charges over $12,000. Surveillance footage at Walgreens determined that an employee had used the card to purchase gift cards. Surveillance footage at other locations also showed the same user.

A 52-year-old Elizabeth, New Jersey woman was arrested for larceny and forgery, and conspiracy to commit those crimes, after a $560 check was stolen from their mailbox, and fraudulently deposited for $5,500..

A 43-year-old Westport man was charged with disorderly conduct and interfering with an emergency call, following a domestic disturbance. His comments made a family member fear for their safety, then held their car keys so they could not leave and interfered with a 911 call for help

A 47-year-old Stamford woman was charged with disorderly conduct and assault, after a domestic violence incident in a Westport home.

A 33-year-old Norwalk man was arrested for illegal operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended license, evading responsibility, failure to obey a stop sign and operating a motor vehicle without a license, following an accident with injuries at the Compo Road North/Evergreen Avenue intersection. The driver — who fled with the passenger on foot — had failed to stop at the Evergreen Avenue stop sign. He and the passenger were quickly apprehended. The operator of the vehicle that was struck sustained minor injuries.

A 39-year-old Darien man was arrested for driving under the influence after his vehicle was stopped in the travel portion of the street, near 1655 Post Road East. Officers found the driver disoriented, unable to follow basic instructions, and with the odor of alcohol on his breath.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

Traveling unreasonably fast: 3 citations

  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Interfering with an officer: 1
  • Reckless driving: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Failure to yield to a pedestrian: 1
  • Following too closely: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks like this one, on Riverside Avenue at Sylvan Lane.

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Suzuki Music Schools are best known for their violin instructions.

Sophie B. Hawkins does not play the violin.

No matter. The Westport-based singer/songwriter is the special guest performer at Suzuki’s annual gala this Friday (April 26, Aspetuck Country Club, Weston). She’ll be accompanied by Suzuki students.

The event includes a cocktail hour with open bar, dinner, and a live auction.

Last year’s gala raised nearly $40,000 to support their Bridgeport Outreach programs, to provide music lessons to children in need.

This year’s goal: raise enough funds to provide violins for those children to take home for practice.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Sophie B. Hawkins

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There was just the slightest touch of rain yesterday, for about 1/10 of a second.

But we were nonetheless treated to a sweet rainbow. Here are 2 drone views. (Apologies to all who sent photos — we can’t post them all!)

 

Over the Westport woods, and …

… the Merritt Parkway … (Drone photos/Paul Delano)

… and the Fairfield County Hunt Club. (Photo/Dave Shea)

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Dimitri Alatakis — a part owner of the Sherwood Diner — died last week, after suffering a heart attack. He lived in Fairfield, and was 61.

Dimitri is survived by his wife of 31 years, Donna; children Dimitri, Zoe and Alexei; mother Galatia and brother Stephen. He was predeceased by his father Andreas.

Services will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 4070 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604, to benefit the preschool program.

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We don’t often post a nighttime “Westport … Naturally” photo. Here’s an exception: Jerry Kuyper’s image, “minutes after the moon hit full.”

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … on this day in 1792, “La Marseillaise” — the French national anthem — was composed by Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle.

(“06880” — your hyper-local blog — relies on support from readers like you. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Downtown, Library, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants

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Pic Of The Day #2390

Posted on November 3, 2023 | 3 comments

Sherwood Island State Park, from the 9/11 Memorial (Photo/John Kantor)

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Roundup: Rainbow, Bees & Butterflies, Restaurants …

Posted on July 30, 2023 | 4 comments

The storm that blew through Westport yesterday evening brought little rain, but strong winds.

They were brief — but enough to bring down tree limbs, and cause power outages in scattered neighborhoods.

They also produced a nice rainbow. “06880” readers all around town sent images. This one, by Theresa Anovick, captured it best:

(Photo/Theresa Anovick)

Meanwhile, Eric Bosch snapped this dramatic post-rain view …

(Photo/Eric Bosch)

… and a few yards away, so did Richard Abramowitz:

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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Scott Smith is one of many Westport gardeners and environmentalists who has observed something troubling outdoors. He writes:

“Where are the bees? The butterflies?

“The sunflowers in my garden are 10 feet tall. The purple coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, milkweed and other native flowers and bushes are blooming (at least the ones the deer don’t nibble).

“Yet I find our pollinator friends are few and far between. At least in my yard.

“It’s been a good summer for fireflies, the wasps are out and about, and with the recent rains the mosquitoes are ascendant. But where are the pollinators?

“I’ve not sprayed pesticides or any chemicals on my property for years, nor do most of my neighbors. So let me ask my fellow 06880 gardeners and backyard apiarists: Can you send some bees and butterflies my way?”

Scott Smith’s garden is beautiful — but bee- and butterfly-less.

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Westport resident Jay Norris and chef/restaurateur/TV personality Marcus Samuelsson are breaking bread together.

The noted entrepreneurs have partnered to offer performance-based leases to minority-owned food businesses.

Norris is CEO of Guesst Software. Crain’s New York Business says the company — which facilitates short-term retail leases in dozens of the country’s leading malls — will now give “artisanal, mom-and-pop restaurants access to ‘A+’ locations–without the upfront cost or standard 15-year lease.”

For example, UrbanSpace — which runs food halls through New York City — will commit 10 spaces at their Bryant Park holiday market to qualified minority-owned businesses who set up leases through Guesst. Norris says that allows them to “explore the world” beyond their own neighborhoods.

Samuelsson told Crain’s that large restaurants like his usually sign 15-year leases. His partnership with Norris allows landlords to be flexible and patient with rents.

Norris plan to launch a “women’s merchant movement” in the fourth quarter. His goal is to “give a voice to voiceless minority business owners,” no matter who or where they are.

To read the full Crain’s story (behind a paywall), click here.

Jay Norris (left) and Marcus Samuelsson,

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For several years, Saugatuck Shores residents have worried about speeding  on their narrow streets.

After pursuing conventional means of trying to control the problem did not help, residents began a friendly “slow down” sign campaign.

Two slogans were chosen. Two young children — 4-year- old Valery Kolotnikova and 5-year-old Anya Jain — contributed artwork.

Miggs Burroughs — Westport’s very talented, very generous graphic artist — pulled together the text and illustrations.

The result: beautiful bespoke signs that appear to be helping.

To order a sign, email Liz Milwe: lizmilwe@gmail.com

Valery and Anya, and their sign.

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A sobering opinion piece in today’s New York Times, exploring the sad state of public swimming lessons and pools in the United States — leading to 11 drowning deaths a day across the country — does mention several bright spots.

Including Westport.

The final 2 paragraphs of Mara Gay’s piece, “When It Comes to Swimming, ‘Why Have Americans Been Left on Their Own?'” read:

Coral Gables, Fla., has a colossal, stone-ringed public pool known as the Venetian, complete with waterfalls and grottoes. Austin, Texas, boasts a three-acre public pool fed by underground springs. Ann Arbor, Mich., has public pools with giant water slides. In 1960 the elegant Connecticut shore town of Westport bought the deed to a country club. Residents there swim in a public pool that sits beside the shimmering waters of the Long Island Sound.

Every American deserves the chance to swim somewhere just as nice.

(Hat tip: Robin Jaffee Frank)

Longshore pool (Photo/Pamela Einarsen)

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Tom Kretsch provides today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo, with this comment:

:A little touch of color on our beautiful river, the Saugatuck. A river runs through us, and little treasures abound.”

(Photo/Tom Kretsch)

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And finally … on this date in 1975, Teamster leader Jimmy Hoffa disappeared from the parking lot of a Detroit-area restaurant. He was never seen again.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to support us with a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Longshore, Restaurants, Weather

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Roundup: College Choices, Hillspoint Teardown, Lyman Party …

Posted on June 15, 2023 | 5 comments

The Staples High School Class of 2023 graduated Tuesday.

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

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

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

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

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

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

In addition, 20 graduates have these plans:

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

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

The most popular school for Staples graduates.

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The wrecking ball came today for 254 Hillspoint Road.

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

It sold recently for $5 million.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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

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

Marigny is sending:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Police Chief Foti Koskinas and new police officer Melissa Bike.

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

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

(Photo/Jen Kobetitsch)

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

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

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

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

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Our Minute Man looks better than ever.

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

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

(Photo/Jamie Klein)

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

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

(Photo/Robert Augustyn)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Moon Dust” (Richard Tsao)

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

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

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

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

PJ Pacifico

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ted Garrity

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

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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

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

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

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Pic Of The Day #2064

Posted on December 11, 2022 | Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #2064

Downtown rainbow (Photo/Chris Price)

Comments Off on Pic Of The Day #2064

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Roundup: Entitled Parkers, Rainbow, Punk …

Posted on March 27, 2022 | 13 comments

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I’m not sure what was in the air (or water) yesterday. But three — three! — readers sent examples of jaw-droppingly, spectacularly self-centered entitled parking jobs.

In 3 different parking lots.

Occasionally, photos like these bring out apologists. “The parking brake must have failed, and it rolled backward!” people will say.

Or, “Maybe it was a medical emergency!”

Judging by where these folks “parked” — no.

They are just drivers who can’t be bothered to read signs, follow rules, or think about anyone other than themselves.

Don’t be That Guy.

This is an actual parked car in the Parker Harding lot. No one could squeeze by. Entire lines of cars had to back up, for a looooong time. The car was eventually towed. (Photo/Miggs Burroughs)

This driver took up a clearly marked handicap-adjacent zone, yet pulled in crookedly and not fully, blocking everyone trying to pass in the narrow lane behind him.  (Yes, it was a male.) (Photo/Rob Campignino)

No, this driver was not pulling out of the upper Westport Library lot. This was a parked car, with no driver in sight. Again, for quite a while. (Photo/David Sampson)

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Fortunately, entitled parkers were not all that “06880” readers spotted downtown yesterday.

Johanna Rossi captured this gorgeous rainbow over the Westport Library.

(Photo/Johanna Rossi)

Hey! Maybe all those drivers saw it too. And just stopped their cars wherever, and wandered away for a better view….

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Lynsey Addario — the 1991 Staples High School graduate whose New Your Times photos from Ukraine have impacted the world — was the Friday night guest on “Firing Line.”

Click here to see Margaret Hoover’s riveting interview with the Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist. (Hat tip: Debbie Zucker)

Screenshot of Lynsey Addario from “Firing Line.”

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A large crowd of punks — and art lovers — filled MoCA Westport’s galleries last night.

“Punk is Coming” had its grand opening. The diverse group exhibition features over 50 photographers, filmmakers and artists whose work defined the punk era in 1970’s New York, London, Los Angeles and other cities. There are never-before-seen videos and photographs,, art created by the era’s musicians, and contemporary works heavily influenced by the movement.

Free supporting programming, featuring those central to the punk movement (like the original video jockey!) take place on Thursday evenings. Click here to learn more.

The show runs through June 5.

MoCA’s “Punk is Coming” exhibit. (Photo/Leslie LaSala)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features a fox. Bob Weingarten apologies for not getting a full side-on view. But it’s still a fine-looking creature.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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And finally … I missed this yesterday. But on March 26, 1830 the Book of Mormon was published in Palmyra, New York.

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Posted in Arts, Library, Media, Transportation

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Roundup: Donut Crazy, Merritt Parkway, “La Mancha” …

Posted on August 24, 2021 | 4 comments

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Donut Crazy — the wonderful, warm, not-for-the-calorie-conscious coffeehouse on the eastbound side of the Saugatuck train station — is closed today.

It’s unclear whether it’s permanent. Loyal customers hope not. Their fingers are crossed it will reopen — perhaps under new owners.

The past 17 months have not been easy. Always a bit out of the way for late-arriving morning commuters to New York, the steep drop in ridership during the pandemic must have hurt.

The arrival of Steam donuts and coffee at Desi’s Corner, at the Railroad Place by Riverside Avenue, is another blow.

Donut Crazy’s 4 other locations — in Stratford, Shelton, Branford and West Hartford — remain open. That’s not too far to go for some of the craziest donuts (and more) on earth. (Hat tip: Carolanne Curry)

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Hurricane Henri was a washout. It had virtually no effect on Westport — except for a ban on beach activities through Wednesday.

Swimming, fishing and paddle crafts are prohibited for the next 2 days, says Westport Weston Health District director Mark Cooper.

The cause: possible contamination of Long Island Sound, from untreated sewage discharges after the storm.

It’s a good thing Caroline Sherman swam to Cockenoe Island before Sunday. (Photo/Alex Sherman)

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The Merritt Parkway paving project between northbound Exits 40 and 41 appear to be a mess.

Readers report numerous flat tires, due to holes in the pavement. Be careful out there!

In better days …

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Sam Palmer is the son of a Staples High School teacher. A 2019 graduate of Fairfield Warde High School, he’s been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He’s waiting for a blood stem cell/bone marrow transplant.

And he needs a donor.

A “Swab for Sam/Be the Match” donor registration drive is set for this Saturday (August 28, 9 to 11 a.m., Fairfield Warde High School, 755 Melville Avenue).

It takes just 5 minutes to register, and have your cheek swabbed to enter the marrow donor registry. The more donors, the more chances Sam — and others like him — have to live long, full lives.

Sam Palmer

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Rod Gilbert — the New York Rangers great who died last weekend at 80 — leaves behind many fans.

Among them: Charlie Capalbo. The Fairfield hockey player — and grandson of Westporters Ina Chadwick and Richard Epstein — has battled cancer for several years. His spirits have been lifted by many people in the hockey world.

Gilbert was among the first. Here was his message to Charlie, in 2017:

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Did you miss the 2018 Westport Country Playhouse presentation of “Man of La Mancha?” Saw it, and want to see it again? Just looking for great entertainment, as the Delta variant has us all wary again of crowds?

The award-winning show is available now, on demand, through September 5.  Tickets start at just $25. Click here to order.

Pick a time. Buy sangria. Prepare paella. Enjoy!

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Laura Nelson died Friday, surrounded by family and friends, following a battle with cancer. She was 55.

Her family says: “Laura’s light always shined brightly. The people of Westport may remember sharing a friendly wave, a peace sign or a warm smile with Laura as she drove around the neighborhood in her clementine orange VW bus, laughing and soaking up every drop of life.

“She was an accomplished communications executive and public relations expert, dedicated wife and mother, loving sister and aunt, best friend, and adored colleague.

“Above all, Laura loved her husband Jim and their children Charlie and Annabelle fiercely and unconditionally. Her pride in their accomplishments knew no bounds.”

Laura began her career as a PR professional with Dan Klores Associates in New York City. For over 3 decades she rose through the media industry as the cable television business flourished.

In her early career she led the communications team at Comedy Central, then a fledgling startup channel. She rose to senior vice president of communications and public affairs for VH1 and MTV. She later joined Nielsen, where she served as chief communications officer during a transformative period.

Laura advised celebrities and media executives throughout her career. Her family says, “She was known as a savvy strategist and insightful advisor. She was a student of the spoken and written word and used this knowledge to advance the interests of her clients and organizations. Maybe most importantly, Laura knew how to bring out the best in her people—she was the perfect combination of mentor, coach, advocate, leader, and friend. Over the years, she assembled multiple award-winning teams, and many of her protégés have gone on to serve as chief marketing and communications officers themselves.”

Born in Mt. Prospect, Illinois, Laura grew up in Darien. In 1983, Laura served as a Page in the US Senate and attended the Capitol Page School. At Darien High School she was the editor of the school newspaper. She graduated from Boston College with a BA in ohilosophy. As part of her undergraduate studies, she attended Temple University in Rome, where she developed a lifelong love of Italy and its culture.

Her family notes: “Laura was generous, loyal, and warm, and she readily adopted friends into her extended family. She was known for her sense of humor, authenticity, and dedication to her family and friends. She was unyielding on the things that mattered to her and to the world, and she loved with her whole heart and soul.

She is survived by her husband James A. Kremens; children Charles Kremens and Annabelle Kremens, all of Westport; siblings Gina Wilcox (Brady) of Old Lyme; Paul Nelson (Julie) of Wilmette, Illinois, and Andrew Nelson (Meghan) of Cincinnati.

A mass of Christian burial will be held Friday, (August 27, 11 a.m., Church of the Assumption.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Cancer Couch Foundation, P.O. Box 1145, Southport, CT 06890, or thecancercouch.com.

Laura Nelson

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The rain seems finally to have moved away. As it moved out yesterday, it left this hopeful sign over Sherwood Mill Pond:

(Photo/Ferdinand Jahnel)

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The Friends of the Weston Senior Activities Center plan a flea market for Saturday, September 18 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Weston High School).

Past years have drawn 80 vendors, selling old, new and handmade items. Spaces are going quickly. To reserve a space, call 203-222-2608.

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

(Photo/JC Martin)

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And finally … country singer/songwriter Tom T. Hall died Friday, at his Tennessee home.

He was known both for the songs he wrote and sang himself, and those he wrote for others. Click here for a full obituary.

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Posted in Beach, Local business, Obituaries, Sports, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

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Pics Of The Day #1407

Posted on February 22, 2021 | 2 comments

Don’t worry, Lele — it’s not even March! (Photo/Lauri Weiser)

Bonus Pic: Rare February rainbow over Compo (Photo/Marc Frankel)

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Posted in Beach, Pic of the Day

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After The Deluge

Posted on August 28, 2020 | 4 comments

Once again (and again and again), Westport is cleaning up from a strong storm.

Last night’s series of downpours did not deliver the devastation of previous rain and wind. A possible tornado thankfully never materialized.

Still, 42 customers remain without power this morning (down from a high of 650). A driver narrowly escaped tragedy when she was trapped on Wilton Road, after a tree tangled with wires crashed onto her car.

Here is a reminder of Mother Nature’s force …

Golf ball-size hail. (Photo/Adrian Mueller)

… and her beauty:

Route 57 and Lyons Plains Road. (Photo/Ilene Frost)

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Posted in Weather

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