Tag Archives: Red Cross blood drive

Roundup: Staples Basketball, UnPlastic Bathrooms, New Tailor …

Posted on March 4, 2026 | 1 comment

Staples High School’s two basketball teams have had magical seasons.

Coach Dave Goldshore’s boys are undefeated: 22-0. Coach Tommy Sparks’ girls have lost only twice; they’re 20-2.

The magic continues tonight (Wednesday). Both squads battle for the FCIAC championship. It’s a Wrecker doubleheader, at Fairfield University. The girls tip off at 5:30 p.m.; the boys follow at 7:30.

The top-seeded boys team faces #3 Ridgefield, for a rematch of last year’s final –won by the Westporters, for their first league title in 62 years.

A week ago, in the regular season finale, Staples downed the Tigers 67-49.

The #2-ranked girls play #1 Greenwich. Earlier this year, the Cardinals handed the Wreckers their first defeat, 55-42.

Click here for tickets, and livestream information.

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Last month, Sustainable Westport rolled out their “UnPlastic Westport” initiative. The initial focus was on reducing use of plastic in the bathroom.

Now they’ve augmented it with an easy-to-follow video. What’s particularly impressive is that it includes not just successes, but “compromises” and a “fail.”

Gretchen Hoffmann — Sustainable Westport’s program manager — shows how she’s tried to UnPlastic her own bathroom.

She’s swapped out soap, toilet paper and a loofah, with great results. She’s had to compromise around her use of face care products and disposable contact lenses. She’s had the least success with shampoo and conditioner.

Gretchen talks honestly about all that in the video below.

Sustainable Westport asks for feedback, in the Comments section here or on YouTube. You can also take the UnPlastic Pledge, and let them know one swap you’re committed to making.

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The 69th consecutive monthly VFW Red Cross blood drive takes place tomorrow (Thursday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; VFW Post 399).

Donors are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance. Click here; then use sponsor code VFWWESTPORT, or call 800-733-2767.

Donors can get a $15 gift card by email, and A1C testing, to diagnose and monitor prediabetes and diabetes. Click here for details.

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There’s a new tailor in town.

Welvin Rosario has just opened up on the 2nd floor of 141 Main Street — a few steps north of The Gap.

He offers style consultations, bespoke fittings and alterations. Click here for the website. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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Westport youngsters have many opportunities to discover and thrive in the arts.

Those in Bridgeport have fewer chances.

Neighborhood Studios fills a vital role. For nearly 50 years, the non-profit has provided an inclusive, welcoming environment that offers high-quality art, music, theater and dance instruction to children of all ages, regardless of ability, background or finances.

They do it through after-school, Saturday and summer programs; partnerships with schools and non-profits; performances, and transportation and financial assistance.

Many Westporters support Neighborhood Studios.

On March 20 (6 p.m., Foolproof Brewery, Bridgeport), several local couples –Jeffrey and Laurie Gross, Jim and Lizzie Wolf, Zach and Erica Barratt, and Zack and Sheera Gross — are sponsoring a “Spring Fling Fundraiser.”

The night features live music from Sonic Bullet, food, an open bar, beer tastings, a silent auction — and of course, memorable performances from the students at Neighborhood Studios.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking of young artists: The Westport School of Music combines its former fall faculty chamber concert and its  biennial student chamber music concert on Saturday, March 21 (1 p.m., Pequot Library).

Faculty members will join some of the duos. The concert will feature classical jazz and pop music for voice, piano, guitar, violin, viola, cello, bass and flute.

The performance is free/ For more information, call 203-227-4931, or email  smiller@wsmusic.org.

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Upcoming this month at (or sponsored by) the Westport Book Shop:

An afternoon with children’s author Lauren Tarshis (March 15, 3 p.m., Westport Library): The Staples High School graduate talks about her “I Survived” series, and signs book. Participants can win prizes playing “I Survived Kahoot!” trivia.

It’s a ticketed event, to benefit the Westport Book Shop. Children’s tickets are $10, and include 1 book. Chaperone tickets (or for those who do not want a book) are $5. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Meet children’s author/social advocate/actress/producer Ebbe Bassey (March 21, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Westport Book Shop): On World Down Syndrome Day, Bassey reads from and discusses her children’s book “Anoushka’s Extraordinary Heroes.” A spunky 5-year-old and a diverse group of superheroes show that true strength comes from friendship, compassion, inclusivity, and embracing what makes us different.

March Short Story Club: March 25 (6 p.m.): The selection will be about the immigrant experience, and announced soon. Registration is required: 203-349-5141, or RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

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Meanwhile, Shark Week comes early to Westport.

This Sunday (March 8, 2 p.m. Westport Library, Emmy Award-winning natural history filmmaker Kevin Bachar offers “Sharks by The Saugatuck”: stories and films for the whole family. (Arrive early, for family-friendly shark crafts).

In the event — presented by Andrew Wilk — Bachar will talk about swimming with hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, bull sharks, and the fearsome great white.

He’ll also show photos and videos of killer whales, on the rim of exploding volcanoes, and tracking moose in the north woods of Connecticut. Click here for more information.

In 2023, a baby shark washed up on Burying Hill Beach. (Photo/Margaret Schwabe)

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The subject of last night’s Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand series was “The Subject Was Roses.”

The Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner has been performed on stage at the historic theater before. This was its first incarnation as a play reading.

From left: director Joe Delafield, stage director Faith Sandberg, actors Lenny Wolpe, Isabel Keating and Etai Benson, artistic director Mark Shanahan, stage manager Caitlyn Ostrowski. (Photo/Kelsey McFarland)

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We’ve run bobcat photos before, as our “Westport … Naturally” feature of the day.

Most show them slinking around at the edge of a property.

This one — on Richmondville Avenue — came close enough Monday to pause, and pose.

Be careful out there!

(Photo/Natalie Kollman)

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And finally … in honor of Sunday’s “shark” event at the Westport Library (story above):

(You don’t need to draw out all your hard-earned cash to support “06880.” Whatever you can afford is great! Just click here. We’re not “back in town,” after all. We’re here, and not going anywhere.)

 

 

 

 

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Library, Local business, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Mandy Patinkin, Dyslexia Film, Entitled Residents …

Posted on October 27, 2025 | 11 comments

In 2023, Mandy Patinkin sold out the Westport Country Playhouse.

His November 21 show is sure to do the same.

The Tony- and Emmy-winning star (“The Princess Pride,” “Yentl,” “Dick Tracy”) returns to the Westport stage in “Jukebox.” The show features classic musical numbers, hand-picked by Patinkin and presented in his own special style.

Tickets are $175 and $150. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Mandy Patinkin

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A powerful documentary about dyslexia will be shown tonight (Monday, 6:30 p.m.) at Wakeman Town Farm.

“Left Behind” tells the story of a group of passionate mothers who unite to create the first public dyslexic school in New York City.

After the screening Ilse Werther, a dyslexia learning specialist and parent of a dyslexic child, will lead a discussion on how families can find support. Click here to register, and for more information.

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Everyone who gives blood, leaves feeling good.

This Wednesday (October 29, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., VFW Post 399, 465 Riverside Avenue), you’ll leave with even more: a $10 e-gift card, and a chance at one of 3 $5,000 prizes.

To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-733-2767, or click here, then enter VFWWestport.

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The Compo Beach neighborhood is all in for Halloween decorations.

For good reason: It’s one of the most popular trick-or-treating destinations in town. (Gone, apparently, are the days when kids roamed their own, less dense neighborhoods.)

This was the scene — a treat for passersby — Saturday, on Bradley Street:

(Photo/Carrie Kuhn)

But Mother Nature — or someone — pulled a trick.

The ginormous pumpkin lost its mooring, and skittered down Fairfield Avenue. It almost reached the water.

Neighbors came to the rescue, and helped the Great Pumpkin home.

(Photos/Lana Diggin)

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This video will come as no surprise to anyone who has spent more than 12 seconds in Westport: Drivers run red lights.

But it’s a good reminder to heed the old “Hill Street Blues” warning: “Be careful out there.”

And — as Matt Murray, who sent the video to “06880” notes — it’s also a good reason to have a dash cam. If he had hit the driver cruising blithely through on Post Road East at Compo Road South, the evidence would have been clear.

Click here or below to see:

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Speaking of entitled drivers: There was a party this weekend on a street off Roseville Road.

This guy (or gal) parked on someone else’s lawn — not pulling a few inches on the lawn, but this way:

The non-party host says: “This person drove in between the reflector poles we put up, to deter cars from parking on our lawn (it breaks the sprinkler heads).”

But it beats parking behind another car, probably 20 yards down the road. Because yeah, the weather looks really nasty.

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But hey: It’s not only drivers who don’t give a s— about other people.

This was the scene yesterday at Compo Beach:

Diane Lowman — who spotted the droppings — says, “There was a trash can 10 yards away. And 3 within tossing distance.”

She placed the poop carefully in the closest one. Amazingly, it was not too difficult.

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Yesterday’s 10th annual Westport Arts Advisory Committee’s 10th annual TEA Talk — the acronym stands for “Thinkers, Educators, Artists” — was called “Seeing is Deceiving: A Search for Visual Perspective.”

Pulitzer Prize-winning (and Staples High graduate) Spencer Platt, Westport Police detective (and drone photographer) Rachel Hall, and Norwalk street photographer Butch Quick offered insights into their work.

It took Hall 4 years to get a Compo Beach photo, she said. Then she demonstrated the drone she used.

Famed lenticular photographer Miggs Burroughs delivered the keynote address.

From left: Detective Rachel Hall, Spencer Platt, Butch Quick. (Photo/Susan Garment)

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Through the first 7 days of early voting, 5.41% of eligible Westport voters have cast ballots.

The breakdown:

  • Democrats: 630 of 7,953 eligible voters (7.92%)
  • Republicans: 150 of 3,338 eligible voters (4.49%)
  • Unaffiliated: 245 of 7,581 eligible voters (3.23%)

Early voting continues this week, also at Town Hall:

Monday, October 27              10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday, October 28              8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, October 29        10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday, October 30            8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, October 31                 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, November 1           10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday, November 2             10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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Speaking of the election: All 3 candidates for first selectman, and the 2 second selectwoman candidates, recently took rides on Wheels2U.

All also praised the Westport Transit District’s on-demand, door-to-door service to the train stations, Senior Center, Farmers’ Market and Library at Jesup Green.

Each posted a complimentary video on their campaign websites.

Don O’Day calls Wheels2U “a very convenient thing to use. It is designed to really help reduce congestion and traffic in town. It is definitely something you should check out.” Running mate Andrea Moore adds, “It’s super easy to use!”

David Rosenwaks says, “I really hope people start using the service more and more. We can accomplish a lot of things with programs like Wheels2U.“

Kevin Christie notes, “With the stop at the Library there’s so much access to the Levitt, Main Street and more.” Running mate Amy Wistreich points out, “It’s not just for commuters. You can take this to go to Saugatuck for dinner. I love this idea!”

To learn more about Wheels2U, including hours of operation, click here.

Wheels2U

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A super (and super-special) networking event takes place November 6 (United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston, 7 to 9 a.m.).

The Westport chapter of Business Network International is looking for new members, in select categories. There are already 50 members — but only one is allowed per profession.

There are openings for general contractor, commercial builder, architect (renovations/additions), painter, HVAC, roofer/gutters, security system provider, estate planning attorney, family lawyer/divorce mediator, physical therapist, occupational therapist, acupuncturist,personal trainer, commercial real estate, elder care consultant, event/wedding planner, travel/tour operator, and other categories.

Questions? Click here, call 203-314-5091, or email 21belenski@gmail.com. All visitors must pre-register.

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For years, the Fairfield County Story Lab has built a collaborative environment for writers of all backgrounds and experience levels. They provide scholarships, mentorships and workshops to help all writers connect through storytelling, on the page, the stage and beyond.

They are hosting a fundraiser — a women-only dance party to benefit a new non-profit, Stories Connect Fairfield County — on November 14 (6-9 p.m., 85 Mill Plain Road, Fairfield). Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Sandra Wagenfeld died peacefully from cardiac arrest at her Westport home last Monday. She was 85.

The Dallas native graduated from North Texas State University with a degree in English. She was a proud member of Delta Gamma sorority.

After joining American Airlines as a flight attendant Sandra moved to the New York area in the early 1960s, where she met her future husband, lawyer Robert Wagenfeld.

They were devoted supporters of the arts, particularly opera. Sandra worked in management at the Staten Island Council on the Arts, and for the Erick Hawkins Dance Company. She then founded Swing Shift, an administrative employment agency with offices in New York and Greenwich.

After moving to Westport in 1988 Sandra became active in politics, lending her time and fundraising expertise to local and national campaigns. After her husband’s death in 1996, she continued to pursue many philanthropic activities.

She was pre-deceased by her brother, Duron Alvin Dainwood.

There will be a graveside ceremony on November 1 (10:30 a.m., Willowbrook Cemetery).

In lieu of flowers, consider a gift to the Sandra Wagenfeld Fund at the Campaign School at Yale. It will be used for tuition scholarship support, and to sponsor 1-day candidate training programs throughout the US.

Sandra Wagenfeld

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It’s almost November.

But Compo Beach continues to draw crowds.

And there’s much to enjoy there.

Including clouds.

Lou Rolla offers today’s intriguing “Westport … Naturally” image.

(Photo/Lou Rolla)

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And finally … based on the photo above, you probably knew this was coming:

(Another Monday, the start of another week of Roundups. If you learn anything about our town — including an event you would have missed — on this blog, please click here to support us. Thank you!)

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

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Roundup: Summer Stroll On Soundview, Keys In Bentley, Paddlers On Sound …

Posted on July 26, 2025 | 3 comments

Our 2nd annual Soundview Summer Stroll is on tomorrow.

A few showers should not dampen the fun. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Soundview Drive — the beach exit road — will be closed to traffic.

The street will be filled with live music, kids’ activities (face painting, chalking, etc.), a photo booth, food and more. We welcome everyone to walk, stroll, Rollerblade, and enjoy Westport at its best.

The Soundview Summer Stroll is offered free of charge, by “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Association. See you there!

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Westport Police can’t say it enough: Don’t leave your keys in your car.

Especially if it’s a Bentley.

One was taken Thursday, from the Westport Country Playhouse parking lot. between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m.

Police are reviewing surveillance tape.

Not necessarily the stolen vehicle.

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Want clean water, and a thriving Long Island Sound? And a chance at prizes worth over $1,000?

All you need is a kayak, paddleboard or canoe — and a place to launch from.

Between August 1 and 10, paddlers of all experience levels can join the 10th annual “Paddle for the Sound.”

Paddle at your own pace, from any location. Track your miles, and submit your progress.

All proceeds from registration fees (and any other team or friends fundraising) will support Save the Sound’s work to protect the Sound and its rivers, restore vital habitats, fight climate change, and preserve the lands that sustain the region’s wildlife and communities.

Long Island Sound is home to over 100 plant species, 1,200 invertebrates, and 170 fish species. Birds and wildlife make their homes along its shores and islands. It’s important to the regional economy, and a great resource for swimming, fishing, paddling and connecting with nature.

It faces serious threats from pollution, habitat loss and warming waters, which Save the Sound works to solve.

Paddlers will compete for prize packages worth more than $1,000, based on total distance paddled.

Register any time through August 10 at www.savethesound.org/paddle. For a map of over 100 launch sites, click here.

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Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 399 hosts its 61st straight monthly blood drive on Wednesday (July 30, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Donors are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance. Click here; then use sponsor code VFWWESTPORT. Or call 800-733-2767.

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Richard Epstein spotted this odd juxtaposition at the Assumption and Christ & Holy Trinity Cemetery on Kings Highway North:

(Photo/Richard Epstein)

“I am not sure anyone took advantage,” he says.

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Michael Szeto sends today’s beautiful “Westport … Naturally” photo: a gorgeous American goldfinch.

He (the bird) enjoyed himself on Thursday, playing in a Stony Point puddle.

(Photo/Michael Szeto)

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And finally … today is a musical birthday bonanza. Darlene Love turns 84. Mick Jagger is 82. Bobby Hebb, Dobie Gray and Brenton Wood were all born on July 26 too.

Rather than single any one entertainer out, I’ll honor another anniversary. On this date in 1775, the office that later became the US Post Office was established by the Second Continental Congress. Benjamin Franklin was named our first Postmaster General.

PS: Alex Chilton was just 16 years old when he sang lead on this #1 hit. He and the rest of the Box Tops did not even pretend they were faking it on this show.

(Mick was right: We can’t get no satisfaction, if readers don’t support their hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. We love you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Police, religion

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Roundup: Bloodroot, Take Back Connecticut, Westport Literature Prize …

Posted on June 19, 2025 | 15 comments

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.

But Bloodroot lives on. It’s gotten plenty of national attention. (Just the other day, it was mentioned on Brian Lehrer’s WNYC show as a restaurant well worth taking a detour to.)

Now it’s the focus of a feature documentary.

“A Culinary Uprising: The Story of Bloodroot” debuts Sunday (June 22) at the 38th Connecticut LGBTQ Film Festival in Hartford.

Miriam saw the video in November, and loved it. Click here or below for the trailer. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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On the other end of the political spectrum: This bus — part of the “Take Back Connecticut” tour — drew plenty of attention, as it drove through Westport yesterday.

Here’s one view, in front of Splash car wash. Images include the flag raising at Iwo Jima, Martin Luther King, Donald Trump after the assassination attempt, and — oddly — John F. Kennedy, just before he was killed in Dallas.

(Photo/Chris Tait)

Here’s another image, from Main Street:

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

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When the world shut down 5 years ago during COVID, VFW Post 399 sponsored a blood drive.

They had one the next month. And the month after that …

On June 27 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.), the VFW reaches a milestone: their 60th month in a row collecting blood.

In those 5 years, they’ve welcomed over 2,700 donors. And impacted countless more lives.

This month’s Red Cross blood drive is sponsored by the VFW’s neighbor, the Goddard School.

Donors are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance. Click on www.RedCrossBlood.org; use the sponsor code VFWWESTPORT. Or call 800-733-2767.

Give blood here!

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The Levitt Pavilion hosts 4 free shows, from tonight through Sunday.

  • Thursday (today): Juneteenth special: Leon Tumbo and Sug Daniels
  • Friday: Dogs in a Pile
  • Saturday: Theo Kanel with Katie Lynn Sharbough
  • Sunday: The always-popular Frank Mastrone & Friends.

Click here for details about artists, start times, more — and how to reserve your free tickets.

Tonight: Leon Tumbo and Sug Daniels.

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After a 5-year hiatus, the Westport Parks & Recreation Department men’s basketball summer league returns to Compo Beach, on Monday nights.

All Westport and Weston residents are eligible to sign up. The deadline is June 27th. Click here to register, and for more information.

Hoop dreams. (Photo/JD Dworkow)

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“The Edge of Water” by Olufunke Grace Bankole, “O Sinners” by Nicole Cuffy and “Rabbit Moon” by Jennifer Haigh are finalists for the 2025 Westport Prize for Literature.

It is awarded annually, to honor an original work of literary fiction that is both relevant and timeless.

This year’s winner will be honored at The Westport Library on November 6. The conversation with the winning author will be moderated by The Yale Review editor Meghan O’Rourke.

This is the third year for the $10,000 prize. The first grant went novelist Zadie Smith for “The Fraud.” The 2024 recipient was Alejandro Puyana, for his debut novel, “Freedom is a Feast.”

Submissions for the 2025 prize were read and vetted by nearly 50 volunteer readers. The best-reviewed manuscripts advance to the jury, which will select the winner.

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Westporter Soha Ellaithy led a group of Fairfield County mothers, who raised over $30,000 to support the Leonard Education Organization (LE•O).

The non-profit provides college tuition assistance and job placement services to under-resourced students from around the world.

Raising funds, for a great cause.

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Yesterday’s morning fog kept the crowds down at Sherwood Island State Park.

But — as today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows — the geese sure didn’t mind.

(Photo/Pamela Docters)

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And finally … in honor of Juneteenth:

(“06880” is your hyper-local source for news, information, features, and lots more. We rely on support from readers like you. Please click here to help. Thank you!)

 

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Entertainment, Library, Politics, Restaurants, Sports

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Roundup: Porch, Protest, Dog Park …

Posted on May 4, 2025 | 18 comments

The British came, 248 years ago. We sent ’em packing.

They came again — this time with guitars — 187 years later. We loved ’em.

Now it looks like the British are coming again. This sign now flies at the former Porch deli, on Cross Highway:

(Photo/Diane Johnson)

It certainly seems as if Gruel Brittania — the Fairfield restaurant beloved for its shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, Yorkshire pudding, mushy peas, scones and more, founded by Westporter Karen Hubrich — is moving in.

And it sounds as if the target for opening is next month.

Jolly good!

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Several dozen protesters gathered on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge yesterday.

As they have every Saturday for weeks, they carried signs decrying a variety of actions by President Trump and his administration.

As with past demonstrations, there were honks and thumb’s-up signs from passing drivers.

Organizer Bean Corcoran says protests will continue every Saturday, from 11 a.m. to noon.

Among the protest targets: funding cuts to PBS. (Photo/Rowene Weems)

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Mothers Day is around the corner. (Next Sunday — get on it!)

Which means Fathers Day is not far. And that means the Yankee Doodle Fair.

The dedades-old tradition returns that weekend. Dates are Thursday and Friday, June 12 and 13 (6 to 10 p.m.); Saturday, June 14 (1 to 10 p.m.), and Sunday, June 15 (1 to 5 p.m.).

As always, there are carnival rides, games, food — you name it. Sand art is back too.

And as always, it’s a major fundraiser for the Westport Woman’s Club, where the whole shebang takes place.

Yankee Doodle comes to town.

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Speaking of the Westport Woman’s Club: There’s a Red Cross blood drive there (44 Imperial Avenue) on May 12 (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.). They provide baked goods, too.

Click here or call 800-733-2767 for an appointment.

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Westport has Winslow Park.

Tomorrow — after 9 years of effort — Weston will have its own dog park.

Weston Dog Park opens at 22 Lords Highway East, on part of the Moore property — land purchased by the town more than 2 decades ago for $2.3 million, specifically for municipal use.

Construction, design and the first years of maintenance are funded through grants like ARPA, gifts from private individuals, and a contribution in memory of late 2nd Selectman Brian Gordon.

It will be open 9 a.m. to sunset. Click here for more information.

Happy days (and dogs) in Weston.

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Plenty of Staples High School’s athletic teams do great community service work.

Few do it better than the boys lacrosse program.

Every year, they try to raise $50,000 for Sticks for Soldiers. Every year, 100% of their funds help combat-wounded veterans and their families.

This year, they’re selling custom Sticks for Soldiers shirts and hats. Orders are being taken online (click here) through May 7. (Under “team,” select “Staples HS Sticks for Soldiers 2025”; the password is Sticks2025).

The annual Sticks for Soldiers game is May 19. Hats and shirts can be picked up there.

Apparel questions? Email teamstore@macwear.com. Lacrosse Sticks for Soldiers questions? Email a.vengrow@ven2port.com.

Sticks for Soldiers gear.

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Mary Scott Himes is this month’s gueste exhibitor, at the Westport Book Shop.

Her prints explore questions of identity and the female body.

She says, “I started making things again during my treatments for breast cancer in 2021. Cancer has taken many things from me, but my art practice is what I took from it.

“In the public realm, married to Representative Jim Himes, I play a role.  I am a person whom people think they know.  This leads to questions about how we create identity: how the different layers of history and mass culture and personal experience bond together to make us who we are.

“My nascent art practice focuses mostly on printmaking because I love the spatial thinking, the variety of techniques, and the collaborative creative process it offers.”

Himes co-founded and was executive director of The Unload Foundation. The Connecticut arts initiative developed educational and cultural events to raise awareness around issues relating to gun rights and gun violence.

A reception is set for May 27 (6 to 7:30 p.m.). To RSVP, email   RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org or call 203-349-5141.

Mary Himes, at the Westport Book Shop.

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Swimming season has begun.

At Burying Hill Beach, anyway.

These 2 intrepid bathers took to the water yesterday.

The air was warm. The water … judging from their reactions, less so.

(Photos/Rob Grodman)

A reminder: Stickers are now required to park at all Westport beaches.

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The opening of the new Finalmente Restaurant on Post Road East — across from Design Within Reach and next to Jeera Thai — “has exceeded our expectations,” says owner Giuseppe Cinque.

He asked “06880” to pass along this message: “We are deeply grateful for the warm congratulations and heartfelt welcome we’ve received from the Westport community. It’s been truly moving, and more meaningful than we could have imagined.”

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Longshore. It’s one more reminder of how lucky we are to live here — especially in May.

(Photo/Celia Campbell-Mohn)

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And finally … in honor of the (probable) new operator of The Porch (story above):

(From the UK to the Ruth Steinkraus Bridge — and everywhere in between — “06880” brings you Westport-oriented news you can use. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Politics, Restaurants, Staples HS, Weston

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Roundup: Sweetgreen, Saugatuck River Caffe, Roadway Cracks …

Posted on July 30, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Sweetgreen, Saugatuck River Caffe, Roadway Cracks …

Welcome, Sweetgreen!

The national salad chain opens today, in the Compo Acres Shopping Center space formerly occupied by Organic Krush.

They’re doing a special meal match with Food Rescue US.

From 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. today, Blossom + Stem has created over 100 bud vases filled with local flowers for customers. There’s also iced coffee and cookies, and Sweetgreen swag.

Westporters who know Sweetgreen are excited. Let’s hope the hype is true.

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More restaurant openings. And this one took a lot less time than the 2 years from when Sweetgreen first applied for an exterior sign, to today.

Saugatuck River Caffe — a self-described “Italian deli” — has moved into the space vacated by Winfield Street Deli. They opened yesterday.

The new owners are very familiar with the property: They own Arezzo restaurant, around the corner.

That means patrons can use Arezzo’s patio — one of Westport’s premier riverfront dining spots.

The menu features hot and cold sandwiches, wraps, salads, paninis — and of course, coffee.

Saugatuck River Caffe is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Click here for the website, with the menu and more information.

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The 49th straight monthly Red Cross Blood Drive at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 is tomorrow (Wednesday, July 31, 1 to 6 p.m. Veteran blood donors — and first-timers — are welcome.

Click here to make an appointment. Use sponsor code VFWWESTPORT. You can also call 800-733-2767.

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The Public Works Department’s annual roadway crack seal program begins today.

Work will take about a week, on 12-15 miles of town streets.

Alternating one-way traffic flow will be used. Keep your eyes open — and drive carefully.

Attention will be paid.

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Staples High School Class of 1987 graduate Linda Hall’s latest piece — “What Alice Munro Knew” — has been posted on The New Republic’s website.

The subtitle reads: “After news of Munro’s betrayal of her daughter, its hard not to see a preoccupation with guilt and secrets in her later work.”

Hall is an associate professor of English at Skidmore. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)

Linda Hall

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“Westport … Naturally” photographer Johanna Keyser Rossi snapped this great close-up of a butterfly, at the Library Riverwalk:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally: On this date in 1975, Teamsters leader Jimmy Hoffa disappeared from the parking lot of a Michigan restaurant. He was never seen again.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on reader support for all we do. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Great Duck Race, Sidewalk Sale, Blood Drive …

Posted on June 30, 2024 | 1 comment

Non-ducky weather did not dampen yesterday’s Great Duck Race.

The annual Sunrise Rotary Club fundraiser drew its usual large crowd of bettors, kids, and everyone else looking for a family-friendly, offbeat way to have fun.

Over 3,000 small plastic ducks were dropped from a giant front loader, then raced down a 160-foot sluice course constructed by Rotary members with help from the Westport Fire Department.

Here’s some of the race action:

Before the start. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

The crowd waits. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

And they’re off! (Photo/Mark Mathias)

It’s a very crowded field. (Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker provides play-by-play. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

The winner nears the finish chute. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

The big — as in $5,000 — winner was Will Augustyn.

George Masumian’s duck came in second, earning him $1,000.

Eight other winners picked up $500 each: Stephen Pianka, Jim Marpe, David Moore, Michael Paul, Steven Benardete, Jason Rich, Aimee Monroy Smith and Judith McBride.

It was all for a great cause.

Sunrise Rotary will give away 100% of all proceeds to local and international charities. Officials estimate that $70,000 was raised.

Congrats to all Rotarians, for a great day of entertainment and good works.

Congrats to the winners, too. You trained your ducks well.

Meanwhile, there was plenty else to do, before the actual race, like a Nerdy Derby, pin making, bubble machines and more, plus sponsors’ tents and food trucks.

Here are a few scenes:

Cub Scout Pack 39 sponsored a “Rainbow Regatta.” (Photo/James Delorey)

Kids’ activities were bubble-icious. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

In just a few months, Alina’s Cakes & Cookies has become an important part of the community. Owner Alina Dancho got into the spirit, with duck-themed treats.

Ducks know that the earth is nearly 75% water. The Great Duck Race shared Jesup Green with jUNe Day, when guests from around the globe came to town. Many stayed for the Sunrise Rotary fun. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Of course, the Westport Downtown Association Sidewalk Sale was part of yesterday’s fun.

It continues today, on and around Main Street (including Sconset and Playhouse Squares).

It may rain this afternoon. So get there early!

Rhone — and many other downtown merchants — invites you to their sidewalk sale.

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VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399/August Matthias American Legion Post 63 just passed a milestone:  4 straight years of monthly Red Cross blood drives. Over 2,220 donors have participated.

On Friday, the drive sponsored by the Goddard Schools in Westport drew over 80 donors.

VFW quartermaster Phil Delgado says, “thanks to sustained partnerships with other community non-profit organizations, we have become the premier Red Cross Blood donor site in Fairfield County

“Remember: One unit of blood can save up three lives.”

The next blood drive is July 31 (noon to 6 p.m). Click here for an appointment. (use this sponsor code: VFWWESTPORT), or call 800-733-2767.

Four straight years of monthly blood drives.

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On Friday, Lynn Bishop glanced out her dining room window, near Clinton Avenue — and saw this young bear ambling toward her kids’ slide.

“Barely” concealing her surprise, she snapped this “Westport … Naturally” photo:

Other “06880” readers reported seeing it nearby, in Willowbrook Cemetery, and shuffling along that stretch of Main Street.

Yesterday it was seen on Easton Road and then Northside Lane, off North Avenue.

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And finally … Florence Ballard was born on this date in 1943. A founding member of the Supremes, she sang on 10 #1 hits.

Motown owner Barry Gordy removed her from the group in 1967. She struggled with alcoholism, depression and poverty, and died of a heart attack in 1976, age 32.

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Roundup: LWV Debate Archives, UN Exhibit, VFW Blood Drive …

Posted on October 18, 2023 | 3 comments

Missed the Westport League of Women Voters’ candidates debates for the Planning & Zoning Commission, Board of Education and Board of Finance?

No problem! They’re archived. Watch them now (or any time before November 7).

Just click here.  www.westportct.gov. Scroll down; then click on “Watch Meetings.” Scroll all the way to the bottom; click on “Other Meetings and Events.”

Listen. Learn. Then vote!

Planning & Zoning Commission candidates, at last week’s League of Women Voters debate.

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Two dozen Westporters — including 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker — were among the 200 guests at last night’s United Nations reception for a ground-breaking arts exhibition.

The display — in the main lobby — depicts Miggs Burroughs’ “Signs of Compassion.” His 30 lenticular photos show local residents using sign language to recite Emily Dickinson’s poem of the same name.

Nearby is fellow Westport artist Mark Yurkiw’s Braille “prayer wheel” mantra, based on those he saw in Bhutan (including a wheelchair-accessible element).

The Westporters’ work takes up the entire 100-foot wall in the UN lobby.

Ever since the United Nations moved into its Manhattan headquarters in 1951, the lobby’s rotating art exhibit has been sponsored by member nations. For what is believed to be the first time, the featured works are offered by individual artists.

The display is open to the public weekdays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., through November 20.

Miggs Burroughs with one of his 30 lenticular images. This one is of his son Brady. (Photo/Helen Klisser During)

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The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston are helping with VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399’s 40th straight monthly Red Cross Blood Drive.

The event is next Wednesday (October 25, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (465 Riverside Avenue).

Everyone eligible to donate blood is welcome. Pre-registration helps with scheduling; click here, and use the sponsor code VFWWESTPORT, or call 800-733-2767.

The site of next week’s blood drive.

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Sure, you can carve a pumpkin at home.

But why not do it with others?

This Saturday (October 21, 10:30 a.m. to noon), Earthplace sponsors “hassle-free pumpkin decorating and carving.”

They supply all the necessary supplies.

And they take care of clean-up.

You get all that — plus one carving pumpkin — for just $15. (That’s for one entire table.) Click here for reservations.

PS: You can buy more pumpkins for a suggested donation of $5 each. Or bring your own.

Questions? Email v.swain@earthplace.org.

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Speaking of Halloween … Ed Simek spotted this “Driveway of the Dead” on Long Lots Road, near the Fairfield County Hunt Club.

Trick or treat!

(Photo/Ed Simek)

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Fred Cantor left the crowded main roads of Westport yesterday for what he thought was less crowded Spicer Road.

Traffic there was backed up too — by a school bus.

As the bus stopped e-v-e-r-y f-e-w f-e-e-t, Fred worried he’d be late for a dental appointment.

Then the bus driver pulled to the side of the road. He waved the cars behind him to pass.

“I know it’s just a small event in the bigger scheme of things,” Fred says.

“But nevertheless I thought this courtesy should be recognized.”

Consider it done.

And consider it a great gesture for other drivers to emulate.

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This year, as many as 40 million Americans will face hunger. One third of college students will be food insecure. While millions go hungry, America’s food system allows over 100 billion pounds of food to go to waste annually.

On November 14 (7 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church), the Westport Farmers’ Market, Wakeman Town Farm, Sustainable Westport and Food Rescue US-Fairfield County present a free screening of “Abundance: The Farmlink Story.”

The award-winning documentary explores youth-led solutions to food insecurity and wasted food. All are welcome — especially students.

There is a reception before the film. After, there’s a panel discussion with local food system leaders and experts, moderated by Chef Michel Nischan, Wholesome Wave executive chair.

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Longtime Westporter Angelo Rotella Sr, died October 7, with his family by his side. He was 72.

A native of Sersale, Italy, he moved to Norwalk at age 9. Angelo graduated from JM Wright Technical School. Shortly after, he met the love of his life, Marylee Denke.

Throughout more than 50 years together, their family says, “Angelo and Marylee’s homes were filled with love and life (and tons of wall paper). Despite taking care of family, friends and a variety of pets, there was always room in their home for everyone.”

Angelo’s favorite pastimes included spending time with his family, gardening and fishing. He quickly became the Wii bowling champion in his family.

His family adds, “Angelo was a great listener. When he spoke, he offered sound advice coupled with wisdom and compassion.

“Angelo wasn’t afraid to try new things, get dirty, or work hard.” He started his career as a mason, then worked for the town of Westport at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. For years, he celebrated his love for the water by working the night shift at Longshore’s ER Strait Marina. Angelo retired in 2017, after 27 years of dedication.

He is survived by his wife Marylee; children Dawn, Angelo Jr. and Lisa; grandchildren Brianna, Paddy, Darragh, Isabelle and Angelo III, and sister Josephine Mercurio.

Calling hours will be held at Harding Funeral Home today (Wednesday, October 18, 4 to 8 p.m. Mass will be held tomorrow (Thursday, October 19, 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Wittingham Cancer Center.

Angelo Rotella

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Here’s a first for our “Westport … Naturally” feature: a hobbit entrance.

Seen at Haskins Preserve, which is a magical place of its own.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

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And finally … on this day in 1967, 66-year-old Louis Armstrong released “What a Wonderful World.” It went to #1 in the UK, but nowhere in the US. The president of ABC Records disliked the song, and refused to promote it.

Armstrong died 4 years later. Finally, in 1988 — when used in the film “Good Morning, Vietnam” — it found American success. In 1999, Armstrong’s recording was inducted to the Grammy Hall of Fame.

(Good morning, Westport! We hope you’re enjoying another “06880” post. If so, please consider a contribution to support your hyper-local blog. Just click here — and thank you!)

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Roundup: Colonial Gravesite, Bruce Hornsby, LymanAID …

Posted on July 2, 2023 | 2 comments

The other day, Andrew Colabella put out a social media plea.

The Representative Town Meeting member asked for donations of perennial plants, to spruce up the plaque on Compo Beach Road, opposite Quentin Road.

The site is the burial ground for Colonial patriots, killed in the Battle of Compo Hill as they ambushed British redcoats on their way back to their ships, after marching to an arsenal in Danbury.

Gardener/landscaper Sue Goldman offered 4 hydrangeas and 2 astilbes.RTM member Kristin Mott Purcell provided 2 hostas.

Andrew supplied the mulch, and the volunteer digging and planting.

It looks great — and it’s a wonderful complement to the newly cleaned and shined Minute Man monument, a few yards away.

Check it out the next time you stroll by. Visit the graves too — they’re in the back, by Gray’s Creek.

Compo Beach Road burial ground. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

PS: Andrew is applying for a grant and funding to locate the exact grave sites. Older photos would help. If you’ve got any, email acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

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A sold-out Levitt Pavilion rocked last night, to the music of Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers.

 

 

Bruce Hornsby (Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)

It was a paid-ticket event. But this week — as the Levitt has done for nearly half a century — they’ll sponsor several very cool (and free) shows.

Tonight (Sunday, July 2, 7 p.m.), Eight to the Bar brings their American roots music to the stage.

Celebrate July 4th (Tuesday, 7 p.m.) with the Jacob Jolliff Band, featuring some of the country’s top mandolinists.

Suzi Shelton headlines Wednesday’s Children’s Series (July 5, 7 p.m.).

It’s Americana rock on Thursday (July 6, 7 p.m.), with Chris and Marc Douglas Berardo.

Former Coasters lead singer Early Clover pays tribute to Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Nat King Cole, Otis Redding and more on Friday (July 7, 7:30 p.m.).

Internationally known (and Levitt favorites) Aztec Two-Step 2.0 — featuring Westport’s own Rex Fowler and Dodie Pettit — take the stage Saturday (July 8, 7:30 p.m.), for what is always a memorable show.

The week winds up next Sunday (July 9, 7 p.m.) with Charles Taylor & Uptown Swing.

All shows are free, but tickets are required. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Just one week remains before Westport celebrates our sister city of Lyman, Ukraine with a huge — and free — town-wide party.

Next Sunday (July 9, 1 p.m. to dusk), everyone is invited to the Ukrainian-American Club in Southport (just past the I-95 Exit 19 northbound entrance ramp).

The family-friendly event features food, beer, wine and soft drinks; music from the Mike McGovern Band, and more. It’s a way to thank Westporters for their $252,000 in donations last winter. Funds paid for building supplies, communications equipment, trash and garbage trucks, and hot meals.

But whether you contributed or not: Come celebrate Lyman, and learn more about our friends in that war-torn nation.

There will be opportunities to help too: a raffle, treasure sale, Yankee auction, coffee table book pull, plant sale, “LymanADE” stand and more. Lyman Mayor Alexander Zhuravlov will speak on a big screen.

VIP tickets ($350) include reserved seating, a commemorative gift, open bar, homemade Ukrainian-inspired meal and more.

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

To RSVP, purchase VIP tickets and for more information, click here.

See you next Sunday!

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Westport Veterans of Foreign Wars Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 has hosted Red Cross blood drives for 36 straight months. The collections have benefited thousands of people. One donation can save 3 lives.

The most recent event, on Friday, was sponsored by the Goddard School, a few yards away from the VFW on Saugatuck Avenue.

The next drive is July 19. Click here, then search for “vfwwestport” for more information, and to sign up.

 

At Friday’s VFW blood drive (from left): Phil Delgado, VFW Post 399 quartermaster, sponsor Kristen Bodenstein of Westport Goddard School, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Frank Veno, VFW Post 399 commander.

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Westport Pride has joined 3 dozen community organizations in Connecticut and New York in condemning Friday’s Supreme Court ruling. By a 6-3 margin, justices sided with a Christian graphic designer who refused to create wedding websites for gay or lesbian couples.

The joint statement says:

“The highest Court set a chilling precedent that entities serving the public can pick and choose who they serve and deny services to queer customers. What’s more, it comes at a time when LGBTQ+ rights are under attack by legislators across the country.

“We, the LGBTQ+ leaders across New York and Connecticut see this decision as a dangerous step on an already roughly paved path towards fascism and the undoing of great gains we’ve made towards equality and justice for all. Freedom of expression should not be used to discriminate, especially against those most marginalized historically.

“We believe that our towns, cities, and country are stronger when we embrace the diversity of our communities and when we can live free from the fear of discrimination or attack.

“We call on all businesses to disavow the Court’s validation of discrimination and pledge to serve LGBTQ+ and all customers. We ask you to stand with us and staunchly against hate in all forms.”

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“Westport … Naturally” often features deer. They are our unofficial town animal.

But we don’t usually highlight albino deer. They’re far rarer than the usual bush- and flower-eating, leap-across-the-road kind.

But Lou and Joan Mall see them regularly, in their yard. Here’s one, from this past week:

(Photo/Joan Mall)

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And finally … before Bruce Hornsby formed the Noisemakers (story above), his band was The Range.

His song “The Way It Is” — a social commentary song about civil rights — reached the #1 spot in 1986.

(From Lyman, Ukraine to the Levitt Pavilion, “06880” keeps you in the loop about all things Westport-related. Please click here to help us keep doing it. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Blue Sunday, Brown-Covered Books, Red Cross …

Posted on September 19, 2022 | 7 comments

Pop-Up Bagels has done it again!

This weekend Adam Goldberg’s stealth-no-more store — the one behind Cycle Dynamics that draws dozens of devoted customers every Friday, Saturday and Sunday — repeated last year’s upset, out-of-the-burbs Brooklyn Bagelfest win.

This time, they even doubled their victory. They captured both the expert judges and people’s choice awards.

So let there be no doubt: The best bagel shop in New York is … Pop-Up Bagels. From Westport, Connecticut.

Adam Goldberg with the gold, from last year and this.

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The blues are alive and well in Westport.

A standing room crowd packed the Trefz Forum yesterday for the first of Mark Naftalin’s “Blue Sundays.”

The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer — former keyboardist with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, who has reocrded or played with James Cotton, John Lee Hooker, Etta James, Percy Mayfield, Carla Thomas, Irma Thomas, Otis Rush, Big Mama Thornton, Big Joe Turner and many others — curates and hosts the monthly series.

Mark Naftalin on piano, fellow Westporter and saxophonist Crispin Cioe, and other band members.

His initial session included an all-star cast: Chance Browne, Chris “Otis” Cross, Paul Gabriel, Manny Foglio, Mark Zarestky, David Anastasia, Matt Moadel, Barry Urich, Smokin’ Joe Naimy, Crispin Cioe and Washboard Slim.

They ripped through classics like “I Put a Spell on You,” and originals that deserve to be classics.

As the blues-influenced Rolling Stones sang in Chuck Berry’s “Around and Around”: “The joint was rockin’.”

Another shot of the band. (Photos/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of the library: There’s a thought-provoking display just inside the front door, on the main level.

Across the nation, drives to ban books are gaining momentum. Challenges come from the right and the left.

The reasons vary. They include degradation of women, sexual explicitness, political viewpoints, bias against male students, sexual assault, offensive language, LGBTQ+ content, violence, insensitivity and  Satanism.

The Westport Library shows those challenges sharply:

Like many libraries everywhere, Westport’s has committed itself to “empowering the individual and strengthening the community through dynamic interaction and the lively exchange of ideas.”

Without banning access to them.

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With the Red Cross experiencing a blood shortage, this Wednesday’s drive at the VFW is crucial (September 21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., 465 Riverside Avenue). The event is sponsored by the Westport Young Woman’s League. Click here to make an appointment; use sponsor code “VFWWestport.”

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Damon Rein and his son Jack Rein — a Staples High School senior — are training hard. Their goal is to collectively do over 2,500 push-ups in 1 hour next month, to raise money for the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. It’s part of the 13th annual Push Against Cancer.

They’re already halfway to their $10,000 goal. Click here for more information, and to help.

PS: Jack created this cartoon of Andrew Berman — the local Push leader — in honor of the event:

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Graffiti “artists” have tagged 2 locations in Westport: the Hales Road bridge over I-95, and (below), the pedestrian bridge over Dedman Brook, connecting the Levitt Pavilion and the Imperial Avenue parking lot:

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“Finding Westport”‘s latest design leaves no doubt about the town’s name:

It’s available as a t-shirt, tank, fleece, hoodie, sweatshirt, mug, tote bag, greeting card, blanket, pint glass, tumbler and outdoor rug. Click here to order, and for more “Finding Westport” options.

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Lisa Newman writes: “My son spotted this little guy spectating on opening day of Westport softball at the Town Hall fields.”

What a great way to start off our “Westport … Naturally” week!

(Photo/Lisa Newman)

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And finally … as noted above, Mark Naftalin’s “Blue Sunday” show at the Westport LIbrary included the classic “I Put a Spell on You.”

Here are 5 other versions of this great song:

(“06880” isn’t singing the blues. But contributions always help keep this blog in the pink. Please click here to help.)

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