Remember the time Queen Elizabeth II visited Westport?
Neither do I.
But check out the internet:
Queen Elizabeth II visited Westport, Connecticut in 1954. Some people who were there remember the event, and the Remarkable Theater in Westport honored her with a showing of “The Queen.”
That’s a remarkable statement. And not just because the Remarkable Theater did not exist until 66 years later.
It’s remarkable because it did not happen.
And even more remarkable because artificial intelligence says it did.
Queen Elizabeth, circa 1954.
Local resident Gary Shure is on vacation this week. The other day he drove through Westport, New Zealand — the scenic South Island town that is one of about 2 dozen Westports scattered around the world.
He Googled the queen, and Westport CT. AI — which now appears at the top of many Google searches — quickly returned the utter nonsense that a year after her coronation, Queen Elizabeth II came to our town.
It’s much more likely that the new queen visited our New Zealand counterpart. They’re part of the British Commonwealth, after all.
The United States, meanwhile, fought a famous war to get away from the royal family.
Welcome to Westport, New Zealand, that is.
What Google — the non-AI version of it, anyway — does say is that the Remarkable Theater did show the movie “The Queen” in September 2022, shortly after the long-reigning monarch’s death.
Artificial intelligence is good for many things.
But it remains just that: artificial.
Meanwhile, remember the time King George came to Westport, and had tea with George Washington at Marvin Tavern?
That was a remarkable day in our town’s history, for “shure.”
Queen Elizabeth II, in Westport, Connecticut. (Photo courtesy of News12).
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Posted onJune 13, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: Remarkable Theater, Arezzo, Earthplace …
The curtain may rise again for the Remarkable Theater.
Yesterday, the Board of Selectwomen unanimously approved a request for a permit to show movies in the Imperial Avenue lot this summer.
The dates would be Mondays (when the nearby Levitt Pavilion is dark) and Wednesdays (when the Levitt’s Children’s Series — which ends earlier than other shows is scheduled). Movies cannot be seen on the large outdoor screen until the sun goes down.
The Remarkable Theater debuted during the COVID year of 2020. It was an instant hit, providing entertainment, opportunities for non-profit groups to partner on fundraisers, and employment for people with disabilities.
After successful seasons in 2021 and ’22, scheduling difficulties prevented the Remarkable Theater from operating last year.
Theater officials hope to confirm their opening — and announce their schedule — soon.
A who’s who of Westporters received Rotary Club honors on Tuesday.
Each also received an honorary Paul Harris Award — the highest Rotary recognition.
Westport Public Protection Awards went to Firefighter Paul Spennato, Corporal David Scinto and Volunteer EMS President Michael Burns (who also received a Community Service Award).
Westport Community Service Awards were given to Ken Bernhard, attorney, civic leader and community volunteer; Susan Pfister, former director of the Westport Senior Center; Gately Ross and Johanna Martell, co-directors of Sustainable Westport; Honorable Lisa Wexler, probate judge, and Pete Wolgast, civic leader and community volunteer.
Corporal David Scinto receives his award from Rotary member Lyla Steenbergen. Police Chief Foti Koskinas looks on.
Pete Wolgast (right), with longtime Rotarian and former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe. (Photos/Dave Matlow)
2nd annual Moth Ball (July 12, 8 to 11 p.m.; $10 adults; under 21, free). Moth experts discuss moth ecology, and identify moth species. Dress up in a moth costume. Crafts and refreshments included).
For registration and more information, click here, or email v.swain@earthplace.org.
For over 9 decades, the Westport Country Playhouse has been making musicals.
Next month, “They Made It a Musical!” comes to the historic stage.
A concert celebrating Broadway’s greatest musicals is set for July 18, 19 and 20 (8 p.m.), with a July 20 matinee (3 p.m.).
Broadway veterans and a live band offer songs and stories showcasing the origins of “Oklahoma!” (whose origins include the Playhouse), “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Titanic,” “Hamilton” and many more.
Two new art installations open soon, in all 3 Westport Library gallery spaces.
The Artist Collective of Westport’s “Piece By Piece” and “Word: Visual VS Verbal Art Show” will fill all 3 of the Library’s gallery spaces.
For “Piece by Piece,” 48 artists from the Collective each created an individual piece — part of a larger painting — replicating it in their own style. None know what the final painting will look like until it’s revealed at the opening reception (June 20, 6:30 to 8 p.m.).
The reveal will be a fun way to see how each artist interpreted the 12″ x 12″ section they were given.
The Collective’s “Visual VS Verbal Art Show ” will also open that evening, with art on many of Library walls and the large Trefz Forum screen.
A year ago, Staples High School graduate Jake Thaw previewed his upcoming University of Michigan football season, at a special meeting of the Michigan Alumni Association of Fairfield County
The Wolverines went on to win the national championship.
After appearing in that game, Thaw — a punt returner and wide receiver — has transferred to Delaware.
But once again, local alums can hear the football forecast from someone who knows.
Lys Goldman — a 2021 Staples grad, and rising senior at UM, will speak at Pizza Lyfe on July 7 (2 p.m.).
Lis is a senior sports editor and senior layout editor for The Michigan Daily. She covers UM football, ice hockey, women’s basketball and other sports.
Lys also designs most sports print pages — including the national championship cover.
Next month’s event is free — and open to all. No Michigan connection is needed. Click here to register.
Lys Goldman
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Staples High School Class of 1976 graduate Tim Garvin is now president and CEO of United Way of Central Massachusetts.
In preparation for their 104th annual Community Celebration, they decorated their offices with vintage posters, artifacts and awards.
One poster from the 1950s caught his eye.
Looking closely, he realized it was more than just intriguing: The artis was Stevan Dohanos.
The Westport illustrator — a longtime cover artist for the Saturday Evening Post, US stam designed and founding member of Famous Artists School — created this work:
“I am that his work and Westport heritage are on display in our United Way offices in Worcester,” Tim says.
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There’s a reception for Dorothy Robertshaw — the Westport Book Shop featured artist of the month — tonight (Thursday, 6 to 7:30 p.m.) at the Jesup Road store.
Inspired by nature, she creates richly textured, exuberantly colorful waterscapes and landscapes she sees in her mind’s eye. She works in oil, acrylic, encaustic wax, pastel, wood, glass and mixed media.
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Rushing to or from a train, it’s easy to overlook the gorgeous gardens at the Westport station.
But that would be a shame.
So now — assuming you’re not running to or at the station — relax, and enjoy today’s “Westport … Naturally” image:
And finally … on this day in 1966, the Supreme Court ruled in Miranda v. Arizona that the police must inform suspects of their 5th Amendment rights before questioning them.
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Comments Off on Roundup: Remarkable Theater, Arezzo, Earthplace …
Two of Jeff Mitchell’s many fans want to make sure he’s recognized as an Unsung Hero.
They prefer anonymity. Yet their admiration and respect for Jeff is clear. One writes:
Jeff’s gift of his time, to strengthen our community and make it a more enjoyable place for others, is striking. And he seeks no attention, fanfare, credit, praise or accolades.
As a volunteer for the Remarkable Theater, Jeff did not miss an opportunity to help every night of film, for the past 3 years. He did not miss one screening!
Beyond assisting in various roles, Jeff took tremendous extra steps, ensuring all would have a “remarkable” time.
Jeff Mitchell
He created a grid-like parking system, with an arc design, so every car enjoyed clear sight lines.
Jeff brought receivers/speakers from home and wired them up nightly, so guests who wanted to sit outside their cars could easily hear the soundtrack.
Jeff stayed late to jump-start all makes and models of cars if they had drained their batteries. People could not praise and thank him enough.
With unmeasurable patience and encouragement, Jeff taught members of the Remarkable Workforce (adults with disabilities) how to become proficient and independent at new tasks and responsibilities.
Jeff assisted with Wi-fi issues, projector issues, car tech issues — any tech issues, for that matter. He enjoyed the challenge, and giving his knowledge, attention and time, to help others.
Jeff advocates for the Remarkable Theater, giving those who struggle to represent themselves a voice. He promotes the Remarkable Theater, continuously suggesting new and exciting possibilities for future fun around the theater and town,
In his world of Westport Little League baseball, he endlessly does those same sorts of things too.
If a kid nails a home run, Jeff quietly climbs through the woods to retrieve the ball. The joy on a child’s face when Jeff hands over the prize is palpable.
Knowing how much the co-ed Challenger team (for players with disabilities) and their families look forward to baseball, Jeff goes out of his way to ensure they have a playable field. He brings rakes from home, and flour if necessary to stripe the baselines. The families respond with delight and glee.
He’s the guy in the shadows who goes unnoticed. But whatever the circumstance, Jeff is there, always ready to help, working from the heart. He is your friendly, neighborhood superhero (Unsung Hero too).
Another fan adds:
Jeff coached his own kids in Little League. They are now 29 and 27, so you can see he goes way back. Plus he’s been on the Westport Baseball & Softball board, and has volunteered for the last 20 years.
He does so many tasks, they’d need 10 people to replace him.
Despite it being a very complex job, with tons of moving parts and logistics, he is never impatient. He does not raise his voice or get angry.
Among his contributions:
Tech guy; internet issues.
Liaison with League Athletics — umpire coordinator. He has the thankless job of getting young umpires scheduled. He has to deal with frequent no-shows and replacements, at the last minute.
He schedules the fields for a large number of teams, and has to coordinate timing with other youth sports.
He sends out all league emails, and inputs all fees for billing.
He is the ultimate Superfan. He attends Little League, Challenger and Staples games regularly.
He is the liaison between Little League and the Staples Diamond Club. He runs LL Day, when all Little Leaguers attend a Staples game, meet the players, run on the field (and get free pizza).
He broadcasts summer games on Facebook Live, enabling lazy people (like me), out-of-towners and parents who can’t attend to see the entire game, with his commentary. Even when it’s 95 degrees!
He gathers game scores and posts them on the website.
He has volunteered as kindergarten commissioner for many years. He loves to organize teams so kids from the same school can be together. He happily fields annoying parent requests to change teams so “Johnny can play with Timmy.” Has to recruit tons of coaches (because many pre-K/K kids means many coaches).
He arranged for Challenger to play at the East Regional Tournament game in Bristol next year — the one that determines which teams go to the Little League World Seriies.
Oh, yeah: Jeff drops off ice cream in the concession stand freezer for Challenger.
I’m exhausted reading all this!
Congratulations, Jeff Mitchell. You are our VERY well-deserving “06880” Unsung Hero of the week.
(Anyone can nominate an Unsung Hero. Email 06880blog@gmail.com)
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The Board of Selectwomen yesterday agreed to a request from the Remarkable Theater to use the Imperial Avenue parking lot from August 28 through November 3.
This marks the 4th year for the popular Imperial Avenue pop-up drive-in. The “curtain rose” for the first 3 — beginning with the socially distanced season of 2020 — in late spring.
A schedule will be announced soon. Meanwhile, representatives of any organization interested in sponsoring a movie should contact Doug Tirola: doug@4throwfilms.com.
After years of COVID-fueled frothy growth, trends appear to be leveling, according to Judy Michaelis.
Some July 2023 statistics, with July 2022 (in parentheses) for comparison:
New listings: 40 (48)
Number of properties for sale: 97 (124)
Number of properties sold: 53 (48)
Average days on market: 61 (55)
Average list price: $3,023,148 ($2,752,077)
Median list price: $2,450,000 (2,137,500)
Sales price/list price ratio: 103.8% (105.4%)
Average sales price per square foot: $574 ($726)
Click here for a full report. (Hat tip: Judy Michaelis)
The most expensive property for sale in Westport right now is this 9-bedroom, 8 1/2-bathroom, 10,959-square foot home on 3 acres, at 50 Sylvan Road North. It is listed for $3.9 million.
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between August 9 and 16.
A man at the International Wine Shop was charged with illegal sale of alcohol to a minor after 2 18-year-olds were seen leaving the store after making a purchase. He confirmed he had not checked identification of the buyer.
An investigation into the theft of a motor vehicle and credit cards led to charges of larceny, payment card theft, illegal transfer, fraud, forgery, illegal use of a payment card and identity theft.
A woman was arrested on a warrant for failure to appear.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 5 citations
Failure to obey traffic control signal: 3
Failure to renew registration: 2
Distracted driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Speaking of police: Around 4:44 p.m. on August 7, Awesome Toys reported the theft of a “Traxxas” truck and art supplies.
Captured on film, the suspect appears to be 6-2, 220 pounds.
Four days later, on August 11, the same man returned. He filled 2 large bags with items, and left without paying.
Suspect in Awesome Toys theft.
Westport Police ask for help identifying the suspect. Email swongwon@westportct.gov, or call 203-341-6080.
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Two Connecticut residents died after contracting infections from a flesh-eating bacteria that can be caused by eating raw oysters or swimming in saltwater, the New York Times reports. A third person survived.
“Infections from the bacteria, called Vibrio vulnificus, are rare but extremely dangerous. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in five people who become infected die. Many survivors lose limbs to amputations, according to the C.D.C.”
People with open wounds should avoid swimming in warm seawater. Those with compromised immune systems should be careful eating or handling raw seafood.
Vibriosis is caused by a bacteria found in salt water, during warm weather. Symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, fever and chills, slong with ear infections, sepsis and life-threatening wound infections.
Two of the state victims had open cuts, in Long Island Sound. A third became sick after eating raw oysters, though not at a restaurant here. Their towns were not identified.
As ocean temperatures rise, infections may spread.
The Times notes,”Connecticut has seen a few cases in recent years. One person died of a Vibrio vulnificus infection in the state in 2019. In 2020, five cases were reported; all recovered. The people who became infected had open wounds and were exposed to salt or brackish water.”
Inspectors have never detected the infection in Connecticut’s commercial oysters. Click here for the full story.
Speaking of the Times: Its “Ethicist” column often tackles thorny issues.
Yesterday’s will resonate with many Westporters. A reader wrote:
I live on Cape Cod, and I have recently noticed something of a current trend in which beachgoers claim valuable (and sometimes scarce) real estate by arriving several hours early to set up chairs, blankets and umbrellas before leaving to return (in some cases several hours later) to eventually move into their pre-claimed territory.
I always thought that you had to be on hand to occupy some piece of public space. Does an empty chair or blanket constitute actual occupancy? Do such phantom claims have any merit? Would someone have the right to ignore such maneuvers by removing these chairs or blankets? If so, what should be the response to the claimant who might return to find their items no longer claiming possession?
“The Ethicist” replied:
The aim of such public space is to allow as many people as possible to make the proper use of it. That aim is undermined by absentee claims that prevent others from enjoying a spot on the beach for extended periods. It’s fine to leave evidence of occupancy if you’re just going off to get an ice cream, say, or to visit a restroom. If you do this, though, it might be wise to leave an explanatory note. (“10:15, buying a snack, back by 10:45.”) That’s within the spirit of the social convention. But your beach-blanket buccaneers are abusing this convention and effectively privatizing what should be public.
At the same time, moving other people’s things isn’t to be done lightly. You’ll certainly want to be sure that their owners haven’t just stepped away for an acceptable interval. The social conventions about claiming areas in these public settings are not, of course, precise. Half an hour or so strikes me as a good marker in most such circumstances, but take a poll among people you know. If the beach-spot hogs return while you’re around, you can show them where their possessions are and tell them that you waited for a while and assumed they were not returning. (Should you ever mistakenly displace a bathroom-breaker, you should apologize and immediately cede the spot.)
It’s best when these issues can be settled through social, rather than statutory, means. Certain beach towns in Spain, I’ll note, punish such infractions with stiff fines on beach-spot hogs; the Italian Coast Guard has even seized unattended towels, umbrellas and chairs, holding them until their owners pay a penalty. Let’s hope that at your beach, norms and social sanctions will eventually suffice to discourage these parasol-planting land-grabbers.
Remember that the next time you’re heading to the fireworks.
Or — on any day — thinking of reserving one of those South Beach picnic tables that say (quite clearly) “Tables May Not Be Reserved.” (Hat tip: Jay Petrow)
Reserving early spots for the fireworks, 2018. The arms race has grown substantially since then. (Photo/Doris Ghitelman)
This has been the Westport Farmers’ Market best season to date.
Next Thursday (March 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center), they’ll celebrate with their annual seed exchange.
“Collecting, sharing and growing seeds saved by our very own shoppers, farmers and vendors – especially heirloom varieties – involves the community personally in promoting local food and flora,” says executive director Lori Cochran-Dougall.
“This year more than ever, we want to seed it with love and health.”
Dina Brewster of farmer-led seed collective Eco59 will discuss seed saving.
People can bring seeds they have saved from their own gardens, or take home a few saved by others. WFM farmers will donate seeds from their favorite crops, to try at home.
All seeds except those of invasive species* are welcome. However, the Market requests people bring and take home heirloom or organic varieties.
“Heirloom seeds are critical to reclaiming our food system,” Cochran-Dougall notes.
“These open-pollinated plants have been passed down from generation to generation without human intervention or manipulation. They taste better, are more nutritious, and help protect plant diversity.”
*For a list of plants considered invasive in Connecticut, click here,
And the winner for Best “Guess the Winners” Contest is … the Westport Book Shop and the Remarkable Theater.
For the second year in a row, they’re co-starring in the local event.
Just fill out a ballot for who you think will win the Academy Award in each of 9 categories this year (plus a tie-breaker).
The 3 people with the most correct guesses will each receive a ticket for any showing at the Remarkable Theater’s 2023 season (a $50 value) — plus a $25 Westport Book Shop gift card, and Remarkable Theater and Westport Book Shop swag.
Ballots are available at the Westport Book Shop (23 Jesup Road, across Jesup Green from the Westport Library). You can also download them from the Book Shop website. or Remarkable Theater website. All ballots must be returned to the Westport Book Shop by 5 p.m. March 12. (The Oscars are that night.)
Staples High School Class of 1972 graduate Kirk Combe has an intriguing new blog.
“Rant Against the Regime” examines culture (movies, politics, current events, literature, media, social issues … you name it) — while at the same time exploring how we take a look at culture.
Combe is professor emeritus of English and cultural studies at Denison University, where he won an award for excellence in teaching.
He earned a doctor of philosophy in literature at Oxford University. At Davidson College he played varsity basketball. As a senior, he captained the Staples team.
Fittingly, his first piece is about … Ted Lasso.
Click here for Combe’s blog. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)
Professor Kirk Combe
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VersoFest is the Westport Library’s annual celebration of music, media — and creativity. This year, it adds an arts component.
The Artists Collective of Westport celebrates “music through visual arts” with a 2-part exhibition, in all 3 Library galleries.
The exhibits run March 4 through May 9. A “reveal” of “Piece by Piece” kicks things off at a March 8 reception (6 p.m.)
“Piece by Piece” is a 6-foot by 10-foot installation comprising the work of 60 Artists Collective members. Each artist received a 12-inch by 12-inch blank panel, and a 6-inch square section randomly selected from a single iconic music-themed painting.
The artists created individual pieces, replicating a part of the larger painting in their own style. They will not know what the final painting will look like until it is revealed at the opening reception.
Contributors include Miggs Burroughs, Katherine Ross, Michael Brennecke, Nina Bentley, Susan Fehlinger, Eric Chiang and Elizabeth DeVoll.
For “Music to Our Eyes,” each Collective member was invited to display a work in the medium of their choice — interpreting music through painting, drawing, photography, and collage.
Over 50 local artists will exhibit their musically themed paintings in the Library’s Sheffer Gallery. Some works were inspired by a style of music; some were inspired by a specific piece. But all are related to the artists’ musical experience.
Each 12-inch by 12-inch “piece” of Piece by Piece is available for purchase, starting at the reception. Each square is $100. 50% of the proceeds support the Library’s art programs; 50% goes to the artist
Additional art on display in the Sheffer and Jesup Galleries will also be available for purchase, with a percentage of the proceeds benefiting the Library.
Last year’s “Piece by Piece” impressed the Westport Library crowd. (Photo/Miggs Burroughs)
The Connecticut Appalachian Mountain Club heads to another continent soon.
On March 14 (6:15 p.m., Saugatuck Congregational Church), Ida Lowe headlines a dinner presentation on “Exploring the Colombian Amazon: The Painted Forest.”
The hiker/world traveler/Colombia native/Westport resident will share her experiences and photographs of trekking through Guaviare, including the recent discovery of 12,600-year old drawings in the middle of the jungle. Her trek included colorful rivers, steep climbs and amazing rock formations, through dense jungle.
Appetizers, wine, soft drinks, pasta dinner, salads and desserts will be served. The cost for members is $10; for non-members, $15. For more information, email easasso7@icloud.com.
The Westport Astronomical Society’s next free online lecture is titled “Solar Orbiter: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Sun.”
Dr. Teresa Nieves-Chinchilla — NASA project scientist for the Solar Orbiter Collaboration — will be livestreamed on March 21 (8 p.m.).
The Solar Orbiter is “the most complex scientific laboratory ever sent to the Sun. By combining observations from its 6 remote-sensing instruments and 4 suites of in situ instruments, the scientific community will explore how the Sun creates and controls the heliosphere?’
In the first round of the state tournament n Wednesday, the 12th-ranked Stamford/Westhill/Staples co-op girls ice hockey team upset #5 Simsbury 5-2. Staples junior Maya Sherman had 2 goals, while freshman goalie Clara Peroni of Staples notched 16 saves.
Yesterday in the quarterfinals, they fell to #4 seed East Catholic, 4-1.
Earlier, the girls reached the FCIAC semifinal. That game ended in a heartbreaking, triple overtime loss to New Canaan.
Congratulations to all the girls, and to John Fay — the team’s coach, and captain of the Staples boys hockey team in 1980-81.
Action from yesterday’s girls ice hockey state quarterfinal.
And finally … in honor of the Westport Farmers’ Market seed exchange (story above):
(Here’s another great exchange: support for “06880” enables us to keep bringing you the daily Roundup (and everything else). Please click here. Thank you!)
On Friday night, Little Barn was the place to be for Hibachi Dinner.
The popular Post Road restaurant’s menu has not changed. Hibachi Dinner is the name of an equally popular band, featuring 3 Brannigan brothers — Terry, Eamon and Seamus — plus Maddy Cerito, and special guest Dylan Curran.
The place was packed. Some of the most energetic fans were members of Staples Players. A week after their great “Guys and Dolls” show closed, they were there to support Seamus, a cast member.
Friday’s Little Barn crowd.
The high school band Dulcit (Grant Hill, Freddie Aldridge, Liam Donaldson and Jake Weissman) opened for Hibachi Dinner. Last night, it was Strictly Business. (That’s the name of another local band that played.)
High school audiences don’t buy drinks at the bar. But Little Barn owner Scott Beck doesn’t mind. He’s happy to provide a venue for them, and their friends.
Kudos to him and his staff. And of course, to Hibachi Dinner, Dolcit and Strictly Business, we say: Rock on!
Hibachi Dinner (from left): Seamus Brannigan, Maddy Cerito, Terry Brannigan, Eamon Brannigan, Dylan Curran.
Speaking of entertainment: Our neighbor Kelli O’Hara opened at the Metropolitan Opera last week as Laura Brown in the new American opera “The Hours.”
Her costars include legendary star Renee Fleming and multi-Grammy winner Joyce DiDonato.
This is Kelli’s 3rd Met appearance. She starred previously in “The Merry Widow” and “Cosi Fan Tutte.”
Brava!
Kelli O’Hara acknowledges a standing ovation, after her Metropolitan Opera debut. Joining in: Renee Fleming (white dress) and Joyce DiDonato (red dress). (Hat tip and photo: Nancy Diamond)
And finally … Irene Cara, the Academy and Oscar- Award-winning singer most famous for her title songs from the films “Flashdance” and “Fame,” has died. She was 63. Click here for a full obituary.
(“06880” is your place for all kinds of entertainment news. Please click here to help keep it coming. Thank you!)
For several years, a proposed gas-powered leaf blower ordinance has been blowin’ in the Westport wind.
On Tuesday (November 1, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall), a proposal — already approved by the Ordinance Committee — heads to the full Representative Town Meeting. for a first reading.
The text of the amendment is not yet available online. It is available at the Town Clerk’s office during business hours.
On Thursday (November 3, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), the same site — the Imperial Avenue parking lot — turns into the Great Pumpkin Toss.
The free community composting event returns for its 4th year, at the Westport Farmers’ Market. Action Waste Solutions will collect pumpkins — aka “Halloween food waste” — while also having some fun.
Just “toss” your pumpkin (or gourds) in the bin, and go.
All pumpkins and gourds in their natural state are welcome. Squishy and rotted ones are fine, but decorated or painted pumpkins cannot be composted.
In addition to creating compost, pumpkins provide food for livestock. Stephanie Maynard from Ox Hollow Farm will fill her truck with good pumpkins that will serve as food for her cows .
Last year’s Great Pumpkin Toss diverted one ton of pumpkin waste from landfill. Can we break that record this year?
Last Saturday, over 75 children painted 63 store windows throughout town this past Saturday, in the annual Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce Halloween Contest.
Winners received gift certificates for an ice cream cake at Gofer Ice Cream.
They are:
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Scariest: Chloe Robbin (Cycle Dynamics; Long Lots grade 4)
Best Halloween: Scarlett Nathan (Stephen Kempson, Saugatuck grade 4)
Most creative: Calvin and Julian Carreras (ASF, Long Lots grades 1 and 3)
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Scariest: Hailey Kipperman (Sephen Kempson, The Southport School grade 8)
Best Halloween: Linda Morgan and Julie Ferraro (Cold Fusion, Bedford grade 6)
Kaitlyn Steffa loves living on High Point Road. “There’s always something fun going on,” she says.
Like her neighbor at #26, For the past few weeks Sarah Maraun has entertained anyone driving, biking or walking by with creative skeleton displays in her front yard.
One day they’re out playing Twister; the next, they’re doctors performing surgery, or having a potato sack race.
As you can see, Sarah does not mess around. These are some hard-core decorations — and some very hard skeletons.
More than 200 movie lovers thronged the Westport Library this week, for the opening night of “Short Cuts.”
Five international short films were screened, followed by a conversation.
The next installment of the “short film” festival (Thursday. November 17) features documentary films, with guest Oscar-nominated Kevin Wilson Jr. Click here fpr tickets. and more information.
“06880” does not often post wedding announcements.
But this one has a twist.
Staples High School graduates Juliet Senia and Josh Jeavons are getting married November 18, at Town Hall. State Representative Jonathan Steinberg will perform the ceremony.
Bride and groom live in England. A celebration is planned there in June.
What makes this special is that Juliet was the first baby born to a Westport couple in the new millennium.
Billy and Linda welcomed their 7-pound, 5-ounce daughter into the world at 9:09 a.m. on January 3, 2000.
Julia’s parents are not the only ones thinking right now, “Time sure does fly!”
Westport PAL’s first-ever gala on Thursday was a hit.
The Inn at Longshore was packed, as residents dined, drank, danced, and raised funds for the kids-first organization’s projects like renovating the clubhouse at PJ Romano Field. Click here to see all that PAL does.
Westport PAL gala-goers (from left):Anna Rycenga, Pam Romano, PAL president Craig Bergamo, Kristen Zygmant, Catrina Hegarty, Emma Rojas, Georgia Rojas. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
Longtime Westporter Nancy Gershon died last month, 10 days before her 87th birthday, of multiple medical causes.
The Brooklyn native was a stellar student, and an excellent pianist and flutist.
After graduated from James Madison High School and Barnard College, majoring in math, then earned a master’s degree in education from Teacher’s College.
Nancy married Richard Gershon in 1957. She worked as a calculator (a pre-computer-era job) at the Harvard-Smithsonian Astronomical Observatory. After he graduate from Harvard Business School they moved to Queens NY, where she worked as a substitute high school math teacher.
The couple moved to Westport in 1963. Her 4 children, born in 6 years, kept her busy, but she took up cello. She played in the Norwalk Symphony and in informal Westport chamber groups. Nancy ‘s oldest child went on to a career as a professional musician.
Nancy and Richard divorced in 1980e. Once her nest was empty she continued with musical activities, including learning jazz piano and taking up saxophone. She also studied computer science at Norwalk Technical College. She collected large quantities of music books, which her musician son has been distributing to music students.
She is survived by her children Russ of Chelsea, Massachusetts, and Andrew, Jill and Laurie of Manhattan; 3 grandchildren; sister Maryanne Lehrer of Oceanside, New York and brother Dr. Robert Leon of Scottsdale, Arizoba. She was ably cared for in her home by Lorna Jones for the last 6 years of her life.
Today’s spectacular “Westport … Naturally” fall foliage photo is from Compo Road South, near Bradley Street. Thanks, Matt Murray, for the image — and kudos too to whoever takes care of this beauty!
And finally … rock ‘n’ roll pioneer Jerry Lee Lewis died yesterday in Mississippi. He was 87.
He was a legend. Just imagine what his career would have been like if he hadn’t married his 13-year-old cousin. He was 22 years old at the time — and still married to his second wife. (Click here for a full obituary.)
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Jesup Green was the site of an anti-racism rally yesterday.
Well – the movie version of one, anyway.
Local filmmaker/Staples High School graduate/former Westport Journal editor Jarret Liotta hopes to make sense of current events — racism, gun violence and cancel culture — with a new dark comedy short film, “Small Town Movie.”
Yesterday’s shoot was the final scene in the project. Liotta has worked on the movie for a month. He hopes to finish by the end of the year.
The script is timely. The intent, he says, is to “poke fun at everyone equally, regardless of their social or political views, and hopefully to give everyone a minor epiphany about themselves and the world we live in.”
Yesterday’s crew included Westporter Isabella Bullock, who served as assistant producer; director of photography Liam Hanley, and production assistant Joey Fassarella.
Liotta is producing the film “basically out of pocket.” Among his supporters: Ruth Mannes, executive director of MoCA Westport; longtime Westport resident Judy Hardy; Bob Saloomey, owner of S&S Dugout in Southport, and Kyle Overturf, manager of the Blue Trail Range in Wallingford.
For more information, email JarretLiotta@gmail.com.
Cast and crew at yesterday’s “rally against racism” movie shoot on Jesup Green. Jarret Liotta is at far right.
Meanwhile, a completed film — “The Candidate,” with Robert Redford — screens tomorrow at the Remarkable Theater. The timing is important: a week before Election Day.
The Imperial Avenue lot opens at 5 p.m. for tailgating. The movie begins at 6. Click here for tickets.
On Saturday, dozens of Westport youngsters painted Halloween scenes on store windows all over town.
They did the Senior Center too. That was the project of Greens Farms Elementary School Girl Scouts Troop 50588. The event was sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
Lenny Lipton — the Cornell University college freshman who wrote the words to “Puff the Magic Dragon,” which his friend and fellow physics major Peter Yarrow later put to music — died this month in Los Angeles, of brain cancer. He was 82.
Yesterday’s gorgeous weather brought crowds outdoors, everywhere in Westport.
Including Burying Hill Beach.
Even in summer, there’s usually space there to spread out. But the small Greens Farms spot was filled yesterday, with a large group enjoying the spectacular view, from atop the hill.
And — because it’s after October 1 — they brought their dogs.
One of the town’s most popular shows — CraftWestport — returns November 5 and 6. It’s been on hiatus since COVID.
As always, the Staples High School fieldhouse will be filled with fashions, accessories, jewelry, home décor, furniture, photography, fine art, ceramics, glass, metal, wood, mixed media, skincare products, soaps, candles and more.
Gourmet specialties boutique featuring: bourbon-barrel aged maple syrup, hand-painted chocolates, teas and honey, cheese spreads, curds and baked goods.
CraftWestport brings more than 175 contemporary craftspeople and modern makers from across the country, to Connecticut’s largest indoor fine crafts festival. Net proceeds from admission fees are distributed to local charitable agencies by the Westport Young Woman’s League,.
For more information, including hours and admission, click here.
Alan Fiore’s new song has just dropped — and it may be his best ever.
The 2021 Staples High School graduate now studies at Berklee College of Music. If he keeps making music like this, he could become one of their most famed alums ever.
Click here for your favorite platform. Click below for the YouTube version.
Eight years ago, “06880” reported that Long Lots Elementary School teacher Jenn Giannino had donated a kidney to Sammy Brownlow — a former kindergarten student, when Jen had taught at Unquowa School. (Click here to read.
It was a hell of a story.
Anna & Raven thought so too.
The radio personalities featured it Friday on their show — in the “Helluva Story” segment.
Eight years later, it’s a story still worth telling. Click here to listen.
The Remarkable Theater provided incorrect information yesterday for their kids-friendly Halloween weekend double feature.
“It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” and “Curious George: A Halloween Boo Fest” will be shown on the Imperial Avenue parking lot big screen on Sunday, October 30 — not the day before. Gates open at 5 p.m.; the films begin at 6.
That’s actually a triple feature day. A very adult film — “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” — follows at 8:30 p.m. Gates open at 8.
A deer in distress has been wandering around the Long Lots Lane/Keene Road area.
Tangled in what looks like a badminton net, its gaunt appearance suggests it cannot see to forage for food.
Residents who spot the deer should call Westport Animal Control (203-341-5076) pr Wildlife in Crisis (203-544-9913). They are aware of the situation, and are ready to help.
Ruth Ayles, who sent this photo — which she saw on Facebook — reminds residents to properly dispose of balloons (or skip them all together).
You’ve probably seen the ads for ABC and Hulu’s new drama “Alaska Daily,” which debuts tonight.
They’re hard to miss.
But all the marketing for the Hilary Swank show neglect to mention Gabe Sherman’s contributions.
The Westport native is a key writer on “Alaska Daily.” He’s collaborating with Tom McCarthy, who executive produced a show based on Sherman’s book about Fox News, “The Loudest Voice.” For a rave preview of the series, click here.
In addition to this TV project, Sherman is a regular writer for Vanity Fair.
Elections loom in a month. Westport’s League of Women Voters is ready.
They want you to be, too.
They want everyone to know about Vote411.org, It’s a national information center. Type in your address, and get all the voting information you need.
On November 2 (7 p.m., Westport Library Trefz Forum and Zoom), the LWV sponsors a candidates’ debate. Included are Senate District 26 hopefuls Toni Boucher and Ceci Maher, House District 136 (Alma Sarelli, Jonathan Steinberg), and House District 143 (Nicole Hampton, Dominique Johnson).
Speaking of politics: Check out the latest “Cross Examining History” podcast (link below).
Host Talmage Boston — a 1972 Staples High School graduate — interviews Peter Baker and Susan Glasser about their new book about “The Divider,” about Donald Trump.
The entire series, in fact, is worth hearing. Boston examines American history and leading books, through in-depth and entertaining interviews.
That’s only one of Boston’s many talents. He’s a commercial trial and appellate litigator in Dallas, a Texas Monthly “Super Lawyer” with a sideline as a writer, on topics as diverse as baseball history and Teddy Roosevelt.
Westport’s Representative Town Meeting is seeking candidates to fill the vacancy created by the passing of Arline Gertzoff. The vacancy must be filled by a registered voter residing in RTM District 3. No party affiliation is required, as Westport’s RTM is non-partisan. The term expires November 28, 2023.
Residents of RTM District 3 interested in being considered to fill the vacancy should send a resume by October 14 to JDunkerton@westportct.gov.
Funds will be used to hire a consultant to prepare a town “Preservation Plan.” It will identify and prioritize the greatest areas of need for historic preservation.
The plan will also will help establish and prioritize more Local Historic Districts and Local Historic Designations.
Properties within a Local Historic District have a higher degree of protection. The HDC must approve an application for alteration to a historic structure, as well as any new construction within a district.
Gorham Avenue is one of Westport’s Historic Districts.
Jessica and Keith Larit’s daughters Emma, Leah and Katie wanted to do something special for the kids of the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. Their idea: a “Kids Helping Kids” bake sale.
On October 16 (Staples High School, 9 a.m.), everyone attending the 13th annual Push Against Cancer can do push-ups for pledges — and then reward themselves with tasty treats.
Katie says, “I enjoy helping because all kids deserve to have fun at camp.”
Emma adds, “I hope we can raise enough money to send hundreds of kids and their families to camp to have fun.”
Click here for more information on the Push Against Cancer.
Andrew Berman (red shirt), CEO and founder of Push Against Cancer, with Emma, Leah and Katie Larit, and their parents Keith and Jessica. The sign refers to this year’s event, which will surpass $1 million raised in 13 years.
“The Afro-Semitic Experience” is the intriguing title of the next Y’s Women meeting.
In 1998 Dr. David Chevan, professor of music at Southern Connecticut State University and Hartford native Warren Byrd co-founded a 6-piece group of Jewish American and African American musicians. The Afro-Semitic Experience has performed, recorded and taught together ever since.
On October 10 (Greens Farms Church. 10:45 a.m.), they’ll share stories and songs, and discuss their conviction that people of different faiths, races and beliefs can come together with music to celebrate and build community.
“From the Pen to the Knife” is MoCA Westport’s new exhibit. A free opening reception is set for October 15 (5 to 7 p.m.).
The collection is by artist 90-year-old Marian Christy. She creates innovative watercolors using only palette knives and puddles of paint — no drawing or brushes. Click here for information.
One of Marian Christy’s nearly 300 works, exhibited soon at MoCA Westport.
And finally … on this date in 1927, “The Jazz Singer” — the first full-length “talkie” (sound) movie premiered. The site was Warner Bros.’ flagship New York City theater.
Wikipedia notes: “In keeping with the film’s theme of a conflict within a Jewish family, the film premiered after sunset on the eve of the Yom Kippur holiday.”
Among the many notable performances in the movie: Al Jolson’s performance of “Mammy.” Though he wore blackface, as other entertainers in the era did, he was known as a strong advocate for racial justice, particularly on Broadway.
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If a kid nails a home run, Jeff quietly climbs through the woods to retrieve the ball. The joy on a child’s face when Jeff hands over the prize is palpable.
Despite it being a very complex job, with tons of moving parts and logistics, he is never impatient. He does not raise his voice or get angry.
He is the liaison between Little League and the Staples Diamond Club. He runs LL Day, when all Little Leaguers attend a Staples game, meet the players, run on the field (and get free pizza).
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