A “Hunger Games” competition for Westport’s last parking spot.
Possible topics for “06880”‘s April Fools story? But it’s only mid-January….
Nope. They’re the inventions of Addison Moore. A 2023 Staples High School graduate, and the winner of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Young Entrepreneur award — now a pre-law student at Lafayette College — he is “a proud Westport resident.”
For the past 8 years, he’s created a positive impact in his home town. From organizing a drive-in movie night as a freshman, to launching Feed Fairfield County (300 teens provided food for more than 10,000 residents) to founding Up | Next (the state’s largest teen-led group), Addiso has focused on community building.
Addison Moore (Photo/Analise Draghi)
But he also has a sense of humor.
Last year — as Westport grappled with political and social divisions, and other challenges — Addison searched for a way to help.
“I love this town with all my heart,” Addison says. “Westport has brought me so much joy and belonging. I felt compelled to give back in a meaningful way.”
He thought abut dropping off cookies in mailboxes, or organizing a collaborative art piece.
They were good ideas. Yet he wanted something more fun and creative.
The result: a satirical newspaper, imagining his home town in the future.
He hoped people would smile, while realizing what an amazing community this is.
(Photo/Jodie Brooke Aujla)
“Westport 2225” was a labor of love. Addison spent weeks writing stories and designing the layout. He printed 1,000 copies on his home printer, along with an explanatory letter (each of which he signed personally).
He and several friends rolled up each newspaper, tied them with bows, and spent one very cold night driving around Westport.
It took till 2 a.m., but they slipped them into mailboxes all over town. (Probably illegal, but shhh...).
His adventure did not stop there. Addison posted an Instagram video about the project, including delivery scenes. Click below to see:
Over the next few months, Addison says, he’ll roll out new initiatives and projects to hopefuly “spark meaningful change, and bring people together in Westport.”
For sneak peeks, more information, and to help, follow his Instagram: @addison._moore. (Note the period before the underscore in the address; without it, you’ll follow a girl with the same name.)
PS: If you were not one of the lucky 1,000 recipients of Addison’s paper — no problem.
(“06880” reports often on the accomplishments of Westport teens [and others of all ages]. If you enjoy our coverage, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
We eased into 2025 with one of our easiest Photo Challenges ever.
Nearly 3 dozen readers quickly spotted last week’s image as the sign hanging over the front door of the Saugatuck Rowing Club.
Apart from a couple of random guesses (Longshore, Fairfield County Hunt Club), nearly everyone knew the iconic Riverside Avenue spot. (Click here to see.)
Congratulations to Andrew Colabella, Joelle Berger, Barbara Mathias, Martin W. Gitlin, “TonyT@duck.com,” Janice Strizever, Vanessa Bradford, Robert Mitchell, Ed Simek, Linda Velez, Rachel Halperin, Micheal Simso, Will Gibson, Werner Liepolt, Seth Schachter, Harry Brady, Seth Braunstein, Michael Szeto, Sal Liccione, Tom Green, Michael Laux, Amy Schneider, Heidi McGee, John Lisée, Michelle Garvey, Mousumi Ghosh, Ivy Gosseen, Howard Potter and Colleen Williams.
Don’t rest on your laurels, though. This week’s is much tougher.
If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments” below.
(Photo/Bob Weingarten)
(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
Posted onDecember 23, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: Caroling Last Saturday; Farmer’s Market Today; Pig For Wednesday …
Right on cue, a cold snap settled in on Saturday. Diners headed to restaurants, for warm holiday dinners.
And 7 Staples High School Orphenians made the rounds of Saugatuck, making the evening even more special for everyone.
This year’s “Caroling Crawl” — sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — may have been the best ever.
Many Westporters made reservations specially for the event. Crowds cheered when the singers strolled in.
The group hit nearly every Saugatuck spot. They began at The Boathouse, The Bridge at Saugatuck, Kawa Ni, The Whelk, Tutti’s, Black Duck, Tarantino, Harvest, Romanacci, Riko’s, Zucca, Rizzuto’s, Viva Zapata, and Little Pub at Dunville’s. They ended back at the Saugatuck Rowing Club, singing for a private party.
Thank you to Brianne Caporale, Josie Caricato, Frankie Diyoka, Jasmita Mani Lorenzato, Fin Maddaloni, Gracie Masters and Helen Root. You rocked it!
Orphenians caroling at Kawa Ni …
… and then at a private Saugatuck Rowing Club party. (Photos/Matthew Mandell)
A reminder: This week’s Westport Farmers’ Market is being held on a special day.
Instead of Thursday, it’s today — Monday, December 23 — at the usual place (Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, Sylvan Lane) and time (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
Next week’s Farmers’ Market is also on a different day: Tuesday, December 31.
Then it’s back to normal: Thursdays, through mid-March.
And finally … Joseph Smith was born on this date in 1805. He published the Book of Mormon at age 24, and attracted tens of thousands of followers. While in jail on charges of treason and inciting a riot, Smith was shot and killed by an armed mob.
(Wondering what to get “06880” for Christmas or Hanukkah? Easy! Just click here, to send a tax-deductible contribution supporting our work. Thank you!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Caroling Last Saturday; Farmer’s Market Today; Pig For Wednesday …
Nearly 80 years ago, Westport’s sister city relationship with Marigny, France began with Christmas gifts.
Westporters donated, then shipped dozens of presents, for youngsters in the Normandy town that was just beginning to recover from World War II.
The tradition continued for years. The boys and girls who received those gifts — now in their 80s — have never forgotten Westport’s generosity.
Now Marigny is paying it forward. For the second year in a row, they have collected, and shipped, Christmas gifts for children in Lyman, Ukraine. That’s the sister city that Marigny and Westport now share.
They’ll add others — a total of 500 — for other youngsters in Kharkiv and surrounding towns, which like Lyman have been devastated by Russia’s invasion.
Gifts galore, in Marigny.
This Saturday, Marigny residents are invited to a “symbolic send-off ceremony” of the presents.
Donors, partners and friends of the Westport-Marigny-Le-Lozon-Lyman Association, and the Rotary Clubs of the Manche region, will be there. They’ve been working on this project all year long.
The ceremony takes place in one of the central squares in the village: “Place Westport.”
Meanwhile, don’t forget: Westport is helping Lyman this holiday season too.
We’re raising $56,000, to ensure that 200 kids in our sister city enjoy time away from the terrors of the past 3 years. That will pay for them — scattered now, as they have been evacuated from their homes — to get together, with friends, teachers and counselors, at a therapeutic camp in the Carpathian Mountains.
To help, please click here. Under “Designation,” choose “Westport-Lyman sister city” from the dropdown menu. You can also choose a monthly or one-time donation. If you use the mail or Venmo option, please make a note: “For Westport-Lyman.”
The Staples High School football team rolled to a 42-6 victory over Manchester last night, in the quarterfinals of the state Class “LL” (extra large schools) tournament.
There #2-ranked Wreckers move on to the semifinals on Sunday. They’ll face #3 Greenwich at 12:30 p.m. That contest, like yesterday’s, will be played at home.
The Cardinals are familiar with Paul Lane Field. Just lat week, on Thanksgiving Day, the Westporters trounced them, 27-0.
The No. 2 Staples football team put together a dominant effort in the state Class LL quarterfinals Tuesday, clobbering No. 7 Manchester 42-6.
Quarterback Neil Weil (9 of 18 completions for 155 yards; 3 touchdowns), Shane Sandrew (2 touchdowns), Anthony Armentano (2 TDs) and Nathan Smith (1 TD) keyed the decisive win.
Nathan Smith, in action against Greenwich last week. (Photo/Douglas Healey)
Last night, Westport’s Town Representative Meeting celebrated its 75th anniversary with speeches, cake, and a commemorative booklet.
But the legislative body is also looking forward.
Their page on the town website has been updated. Gone is the dull, bureaucratic look. It’s now livelier — at least, in the confines of what a municipal website should look like. (Click here to see.)
A header shows members marching proudly (and non-partisanly) in the Memorial Day. Photos liven up the links, to pages like FAQs, Members, District Map and Minutes.
There’s even a link to that new 75th anniversary brochure.
Screenshot of the new town website RTM page.
PS: Planning way ahead: The RTM invites all Westporters to a “Community Conversation,” with members.
Mark the date: Sunday, March 23, 2025, 2 p.m. at the Westport Library.
Also last night: A large crowd celebrated the release of Alison Milwe Grace’s new book, “Savor: Recipes to Celebrate,” last night at Wakeman Town Farm.
The energetic, talented owner of AMG Catering & Events greeted her fans and friends. She answered questions from her aunt, longtime Westporter Liz Milwe.
And, of course, she made sure her guests were well fed.
Alison Milwe Grace, her book and her chacuterie. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Saugatuck Rowing Club’s Holiday Festival this Sunday (December 8, 1 to 4 p.m.) will benefit the Survive-Oars, the great program that helps breast cancer survivors heal and find community on and off the water.
The afternoon features live music, mulled wine, spiked warm cider, fire pits, s’mores, a raw bar, charcuterie, hot cocoa, dunkable grilled cheese and tomato soup, and a cash bar.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there (1 to 2:30 p.m.).
Guests are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for Al’s Angels.
Tickets are $50 (tax-deductible) — and kids are free. Click here for tickets.
And finally … on this day in 1956, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash recorded together at the Sun Record Studios in Memphis. It was the only time the “Million Dollar Quartet” played together, and was entirely unplanned.
(We’re not asking for a million dollars [though we wouldn’t turn it down.] But we hope you appreciate “06880” enough to toss a few coins, or whatever feels right, our way. Just click here — thanks!)
A reader wrote: “What is the status of capital improvements at Longshore?
“With pickleball one of the nation’s fastest growing sports, Westport is clearly behind the times. We have only 2 courts at the beach, 2 at Saugatuck Elementary School (which can only be used when school is out), and 4 courts that are not in good shape at Town Farms.”
I asked Rick Giunta, Westport Parks & Recreation Department deputy director, for an update. He says:
“We’re excited to begin the process of the Longshore Capital Improvement Plan.
“Late last week, an RFP was issued for architectural and engineering services for the design and permitting of a new parks maintenance facility within Longshore Club Park.
“Once the current maintenance facility has been relocated, it paves the way to tackle other projects within the Capital Improvement Plan, including the addition of pickleball courts.
“As this process may take several years, there have been discussions to investigate the possibility of adding 2 pickleball courts to Compo Beach in the near term. We’re looking at issuing an RFP soon for this purpose.
“Currently, in addition to the 2 pickleball courts at Compo Beach, 4 will be painted on the tennis courts at Doubleday as well as 4 currently painted on the courts at Town Farms.”
Pickleball courts at Compo Beach. (Photo/DinkinEsh Fotografix)
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The dog days of autumn continue (see yesterday’s Roundup for a leashed/ unleashed debate about Compo Beach).
A reader writes: “I’m a long-time Westport resident in my early 70s, who enjoys lovely off-season walks at Compo Beach. Although reasonably spry, my replacement body parts makes me cognizant of potential obstacles.
“The boardwalk, pavilion and playground are now overrun with dogs, particularly on weekends. While attempting to negotiate the boardwalk 2 weekends ago, within 20 minutes, I took photos of 20 dogs on the walkway, on retractable leashes (fully extended), or entirely off leash.
“I had the dubious fortune to see a dog defecate at the entrance to the playground. I told the owners that was beyond inappropriate. They picked up most of the poop and said, ‘no big deal.'”
“The congestion caused by the massive disregard for civilian traffic makes the supposed off limits areas very difficult to navigate.
“I went to Parks & Rec, and was told ‘there’s no enforcement,’ with no staff or resource to provide guidance, warnings, or tickets. I was told ‘call the selectwoman’s office,’ which is humorous.
“Why have sane and reasonable guidelines to share the beach, without some effort to control the overreach of dog owners?
“I’ll end my diatribe by saying that we love dogs, enjoy babysitting for our son’s beloved dog so, this is not a case of a disgruntled ‘get off my lawn’ crankpot. Just a resident who wishes safe access to our beloved beach.”
Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk. (Photo/Carm Roda)
As executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and Representative Town Meeting from District 1, Matthew Mandell has followed closely the discussions about renovating the Saugatuck River railroad bridge — and the pedestrian walkway next to it.
He says: “On Monday night, the state Department of Transportation held a Zoom call regarding a second project to extend the lifespan of the Saugatuck River train bridge, prior to the full rebuild slated for 2035.
“On a call in April, they outlined work to be done on the mechanical lifts and electrical needed to run them. They said there might be sporadic closures of the walkway to bring in and stage the machinery, but nothing major. Their goal was not to impede the walkway.
“This new call was about work on the 2 towers on either side of the span. The ladders that go up, the platforms for rest climbing and staging, and the guy wires are in terrible shape and need to be replaced.
“This work will be done in 2025. They made it very clear, after stating it and then answering my question to confirm, that the walkway over the bridge will not be impacted. A scaffold will be placed at the end of Ferry Lane East to ensure safe pedestrian passage.
“Work will mostly be done at night. Lights will be trained on the work, and not disturb the neighborhood. Hat tip to RTM member Chris Tait for asking about the lighting.”
Saugatuck River railroad bridge — and the pedestrian walkway. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)
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It’s a busy fall at Wakeman Town Farm.
And there’s something for everyone, from tots to retirees. Offerings include:
Learn to Compost with Alice Ely (October 28, 7:30 p.m.)
Fall Pumpkin Centerpiece Workshop (October 29, 6:30 p.m.)
Farm Sessions for Neuro-diverse Youth (November 2, 9, 16; ages 3-10, 9 to 9:45 a.m.; ages 11+, 10 to 10:45 a.m.)
Election Day Camp (November 5, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
Dahlia Workshop (November 9, 12 p.m.)
Fall Cooking, Grades K-2 (Mondays, November 18 through December 16, 4:15 to 5:30 p.m.)
Fall Flavors with Laura Weinman (November 19, 6:30 to 9 p.m.; $110 per person, BYOB)
Autumn Bits & Delights Cooking. Grades 2-6 (Wednesdays, November 20 through December 18, 4:15 to 5:30 p.m.)
Appetizers and Book Signing with Chef Alison Milwe Grace (December 3, 7 to 8:30 p.m.; $75, includes cookbook).
Click here for more information, and registration.
Attention, non-profits looking for space in a community-focused co-op.
Blau House & Gardens — the dramatic mid-century home off Bayberry lane surrounded by lush gardens and nature — is seeking 1 to 3 non-profit tenants, in the arts, culture, horticulture or environmental sectors.
Flexible office, meeting and event spaces are available, including use of the gardens.
Rent is $9,700 a month, plus shared utilities. Other options are available.
Erick Russell — who has the job — gave Westport Rotary Club members an overview of his office.
He also talked about his major goal: to lower costs and give opportunity, security and quality of life to all Connecticut residents.
To help narrow the large wealth gap, Connecticut Baby Bonds invests $3,200 in each low-income baby born in the state. It will be distributed to them when they are between 18 and 30, as capital to start building a secure financial future.
Russell also discussed the importance of investing in affordable housing.
State treasurer Erick Russell (Photo/Ellin Curley)
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Last weekend, the Head of the Charles Regatta — the Super Bowl of rowing, with 11,000 athletes and 400,000 spectators — hosted the first-ever race made up exclusively of cancer survivors.
Eleven boats from 17 clubs around the world raced.
Among them: the Saugatuck SurviveOARS, out of Saugatuck Rowing club. Theiri pink boat included coxswain Alison Reilly. The Westport resident has coxed the Head of the Charles over 30 times in her career.
The SRC Junior Rowing Program also had a strong showing Sunday at the regatta.
The Saugatuck SurviveOARS, at the Head of the Charls.
The Women’s Youth 8+ took second and fourth place in a category, competing against 90 boats from around the world.
The Junior Rowing Program brought 7 boats and 51 athletes to the regatta.
Fifteen Westport girls were among the 23 SRC medalists. Congratulations to Charlotte Seymour , Sofia Martin, Maddie Speller, Delaney Rose Lundberg, Clementine Kirt, Sophie Cochran, Rylie Cordella, Carolina Proctor, Kate Weitz, Alice Frascella, Mina Leon, Samantha Weitz, Emily Lust, Ashlyn Frey and Olivia Saw, plus Anne Studnicky and Hannah Makmale of Weston.
The Saugatuck Women’s Youth 8+A team (from left): Phoebe Bryan, Sophie Cochran, Hannah Makmale, Clementine Kirt, Madeline Casano, Rose Lundberg, Maddie Speller, Sofia Martin, Charlotte Seymour, Coach Mike O’Hara.
The ESPN chairman and Westport resident will receive the VOICES 2024 Leadership Award November 14, at the New York Athletic Club.
The annual Always Remember Gala is sponsored by Voices Center for Resilience.ESPN’s Mike Greenberg — a former Westporter — is the MC.
Voices Center for Resilience (VOICES) provides long-term support for thousands of people impacted by 9/11, and helps communities prepare for other tragedies.
Pitaro will be recognized for his leadership, devoting ESPN’s time and resources to produce the “Comeback Season” exhibit at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and the television special hosted by Greenberg. Both show how sports united and helped heal the nation after the 2001 terrorist attacks.
Last year, Pitaro was named Innovator of the Year by StartUp Westport.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features Riverside Park.
(Photo/Dan Vener)
Photographer Dan Vener says, “If your glass is half full, this shows someone enjoying a hammock in the park.
“If your glass is half empty, it’s a tree strangler!”
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And finally … on this date in 1864, the Battle of Westport — the last significant Civil War engagement west of the Mississippi River — ended in a Union victory.
The event — sometimes called “The Gettysburg of the West” — was fought in what is now Kansas City, Missouri. Over 30,000 troops were involved.
It was the turning point of Confederate Major General Sterling Price’s Missouri Expedition, forcing his army to retreat. For the rest of the war, the US Army maintained solid control over most of Missouri.
(“06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” That includes Westport, Missouri. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog — with its global touch — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee invites all stakeholders to a public charette on October 23 (6 p.m., Westport Library).
Attendees can learn about current plans for Jesup Green, the Imperial Avenue parking lot, and a possible parking deck, with time for questions and feedback.
Meanwhile, the next Traffic and Pedestrian Safety public meeting is October 17 (7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).
Police and other officials will present the results of the safety action plan survey, and offer updates on road, traffic and pedestrian initiatives.
Traffic safety map, showing residents’ input and ideas.
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Yesterday, “06880” reported that Planning & Zoning Department director Mary Young is retiring, effective Friday.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker praised Young for her 22 years of “outstanding service to our community. We are incredibly grateful for Mary’s unwavering dedication throughout her tenure, which has greatly contributed to the growth and development of Westport. Please join me in expressing our heartfelt thanks to Mary and wishing her the very best as she embarks on her next journey.”
Young’s position will be filled by deputy P&Z director Michelle Perillie.
Tooker said, “Michelle has served the Town of Westport as a planner for over 20 years, working with all aspects of land use planning with a special concentration in environmental issues.
“She became a licensed Professional Planner as qualified by the American Institute of Certified Planners in 2006. In 2020, she was qualified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to be a Certified Floodplain Manager.” (Click here for an “06880” story on that achievement.)
“Michelle has excelled in a variety of roles, and steadily advanced within the department…. I am excited to see her lead the department with the same professionalism and expertise that she has always demonstrated.”
Amanda Trianovich, current town planner, will take Perillie’s place as deputy director.
Gymnastics & Cheerleading Academy is helping support victims of Hurricane Helene.
And they need our help.
Donations can be dropped off at:
Alina’s Cakes & Cookies, 1252 Post Road East
Norfield Grange, 12 Good Hill Road, Weston
GCA, 85 Mill Plain Road, Fairfield (Sportsplex)
277 Connecticut Avenue, Norwalk
Sacred Heart University, inside the Church of the Holy Spirit, 5151 Park Ave, Fairfield.
Items needed include:
Non-perishable foods
Sports drinks (powdered packets)
Cleaning supplies
Hydration packs (powder form)
Toothbrushes, toothpaste, and toiletries
Diapers (children & adults)
Baby formula
Pet food (dog & cat)
Bug spray, sunscreen, hand sanitizer
Feminine hygiene products
Manual can openers
Heavy-duty work gloves
Trash bags (13-gallon or contractor)
Socks and underwear (new, in packages)
Sanitizer wipes
Plastic utensils
Baby wipes
Teens interested in volunteering should email Hannah.YasmineEvans@gmail.com.
Businesses and individuals who would like to become drop-off locations should email Kami.evans@icloud.com or call 203-212-9910.
Hurricane Helene has left a path of devastation.
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“The Apprentice” — the movie written by Westport native Gabriel Sherman, exploring a young Donald Trump’s rise to power, beginning in the 1970s with attorney/fixer Roy Cohn — has gotten a lot of buzz recently.
Now — a few days before its October 11 release – you can hear about it directly from Sherman himself.
He was interviewed recently by David Remnick, for a New Yorker podcast. Click here to listen.
Gabriel Sherman
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When the Survivor Rowing Network andHead of the Charles host the first Survivor Row on October 19 — celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month — the Saugatuck Survive-Oars will be there.
And they’ll compete in their new pink boat.
Eleven 8+s of cancer survivors — women and men — from 15 rowing clubs have entered the race, from as far as Italy and France.
The Saugatuck Survive-Oars is our local breast cancer survivor rowing organization, based out of the Saugatuck Rowing Club.
Amy Bauer calls it “a life-changing organization and experience for many women in various states of treatment and recovery. Through the generosity of the SRC, the Survive-Oars is in its seventh year. They provide instruction and opportunities to learn and row.
“Its impact cannot be overstated for the benefits of health, camaraderie and support.”
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Saugatuck Survive-Oars are participating in the Pink the Boathouse Challenge. proceeds will help maintain and grow the Survive-Oar program.
Speaking of breast cancer: Sorelle Gallery’s online art sale includes original works by over 70 artists in 4 price categories: $2500, $2000, $1500, and $750 and under.
The event opens at 7 p.m. on October 23, and ends 7 p.m. on October 25. Click here to browse, and add to your wishlist.
It’s for a good cause, too. 5% of proceeds will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
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Though all of us face obstacles, some of us are better problem solvers than others.
Want to improve that skill? Mike Hibbard — co-author of “Thinking it Through: Coaching Students to be Problem Solvers” — offers a breakfast presentation on the topic tomorrow (Saturday, October 5, 9 a.m., United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston).
Now retired, Hibbard has taught creative and critical thinking throughout his career.
And finally … as you get ready to offer your thoughts on our next downtown ideas:
(Another day, another Roundup chock full of news you can use. If you appreciate our coverage of all things Westport, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Located at 170 Post Road West (opposite Kings Highway Elementary School), Bran Nu “combines the best of athletic wear and streetwear for men and women,” a press releases says.
It will “revolutionize how we express individuality and creativity through fashion.”
Brand Nu is the latest project of Marcello DeAguero. The professional break dancer, DJ and fitness instructor is well known locally.
The grand opening is Saturday (July 13, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.). There will be raffles, a entertainment, and 20% off the entire store.
Follow @brandnuapparel.official to enter for giveaways.
First Folk Sunday songs were blowing in the wind last weekend, at the series’ new home.
Saugatuck Rowing Club welcomed the monthly concert. Host Suzanne Sheridan, Tim DeHuff and Bob Cooper played Bob Dylan’s songs, and shared stories about the singer and his music.
Between the beautiful views, great bar menu and gorgeous sunshine, it was an afternoon to feel forever young.
The Greens Farms Garden Club’s “Growing for Good” initiative launched in 2021. It provides fresh, organically grown herbs and vegetables to women and their families.
Last summer, the project donated over 818 pounds of harvest to Mercy Learning Center.
In October, the club earned an Award of Excellence for Civic Development from the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut.
Now they’ve gone national.
The Greens Farms Garden Club recently won the national “Best of the Best” award from the Espoma Company, for their ongoing work, and use of the company’s organic plant foods and potting soil.
They’re well on their way to beating last year’s harvest total, too. Congratulations to all!
Members of the Greens Farms Garden Club and Prospect Garden landscape sesigner Cindy Shumate (front left) with the National “Best of the Best” Award from Karin Pyskaty, president of the Federated Garden Clubs of CT. GFGC members are (front, from left): Jacque O’Brien, Mary Lou MeGuire, Trish Levitt, Donna Hannay, Heather Rosenthal. Back: Linda Adelman, Terri Jennings, Asha Yoganandan, Judy Smith, Judy Hlawitschka.
“Westport … Naturally” often features beautiful flowers, and/or cool-looking creatures.
But nature takes many forms — including non-native plants and animals.
Tree-of-heaven is a highly invasive species. It reproduces quickly, crowds out native species with its dense thickets, and secretes a chemical into the soil that is toxic to surrounding plants.
Plus, spotted lanternflies love it.
We see trees-of-heaven everywhere. Here they are, growing quickly at Compo Beach:
And finally … in honor of our Brand Nu pop-up shop:
(Whether you’re a brand-new Westporter, or you’ve been here long enough to remember the Big Top, Clam Box and Crest: you’re part of our “06880” world. Thanks to ALL for supporting our blog!)
For decades, Klein’s Department Store was a fixture at 44 Main Street.
Banana Republic lasted a couple of decades.
OKA didn’t even make their 2nd anniversary.
The British furniture and home accessories retailer moved in right before Christmas in 2022. It was their 3rd US store. And, they proudly proclaimed, “our flagship.”
Now they’re gone.
“Greenoaks42” posted on Reddit yesterday:
They charged me of +$700USD months ago for a lamp they never sent. Now they filed for chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Their website is gone. Phones disconnected. But they have the audacity to continue posting on social media.
They told me to wait for their bankruptcy rep to contact me about a refund “in due course.” Good riddance to unethical companies. I’m glad they’re gone from Westport.
“06880” could not contact anyone at OKA for information. Instead, we’ll offer this look back at their opening in Westport, less than 2 short years ago:
The Westport Farmers’ Market’s Young Shoots Photography Contest, for students ages 5 to 18, begins Thursday.
The 8th annual event runs through August 3. Children and teenagers can demonstrate their love for local food — and their creative photo talents — to win cash prizes in 3 age categories, plus a chance to attend an art class at MoCA CT.
All photos must be taken at the Westport Farmers’ Market (Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot). It’s an amazing place, filled with food, plants, food trucks, entertainers, the farmers themselves, shoppers — everything a young photographer could hope to shoot.
Local artists will judge. Age groups are 5-9, 10-14 and 15-18. An exhibit at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center will showcase the winners.
The contest is sponsored by the Farmers’ Market, the Artists Collective of Westport, and the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.
Click here for rules, registration and more information.
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Calling all runners!
Fleet Feet will once again sponsor the Westport Summer Series Races.
The weekly events — now in their 62nd year — are held Saturday mornings, at various locations. The first race (June 29) is 2.3 miles. They get longer each week. The final is 10 miles, on Labor Day weekend.
Speaking of sports: Steve Haberstroh teed off at 5 a.m. yesterday, at Great River Golf Club in Milford.
The former member of Staples’ 1997 state champion golf team played 100 holes — an astonishing 5 1/2 rounds — to raise awareness and funds for ALS research.
He was honoring his mother, Patty Haberstroh, Westport’s beloved Human Services Department social worker who died of the disease last year.
Dan Orlovsky — a Westport resident, ESPN analyst and former NFL quarterback — played a few holes too. Today he’s in the Travelers ProAm. Not too shabby!
The ALS event included a reception, and live and silent auctions.
Patty Habestroh
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The town may soon put the “play” in playground.
On June 24 (6 p.m., Zoom), the Planning & Zoning Commission will review a request to expand 2 existing play areas at Coleytown Elementary School.
It includes a 665 square foot expansion of the existing southern area with a new carousel, and a 1,050 square foot expansion of the western area with a swing.
Funds will come from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
Coleytown Elementary School, with existing play areas. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)
Congressman Jim Himes is a regular guest at Westport Rotary Club meetings.
Yesterday, he spoke mostly about the domestic environment. He said the main issue in the US today is the impact of social media, and the anger and rage between Americans with opposing views.
Himes said, “I don’t want my grandkids living as if we’re a third world country, where people are always fighting or verbally attacking one another.” In the long term, he said, we “risk losing our self-confidence.”
He is deeply skeptical about how Americans seek their news sources. “With 500 channels anyone can tailor their own instincts about what news sources they select….If you elect someone bombastic, for instance, that’s the kind of government you’re really asking for.”
As for the Supreme Court, Himes favors 18-year term limits for justices.
Rep. Jim Himes (left) and Rotarian/RTM moderator Jeff Wieser, at yesterday’s Rotary Club meeting. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
Five years ago this month, Governor Lamont signed Ethan’s Law. It requires gun owners to safely and securely store their firearms — is named for a Guilford teenager killed by an unsecured weapon.
Staples High School students Aidan Lapatine and Logan Noorily mark the anniversary by bringing it to Westport’s attention.
In a letter last week to parents, signed by Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice and Police Chief Foti Koskinas, Aidan Lapatine and Logan Noorily — co-presidents of Staples Students Demand Action — highlighted the safe-gun legislation. awareness about local and national gun storage laws.
The students’ next steps include sharing the message with nearby towns.
“Members of SDA are committed to preventing gun violence,” Aidan says.
“Our safe storage campaign aims to educate parents and students on the risks associated with unsecured firearms. Over 75% of firearms used in youth suicide attempts and unintentional injuries originate from the residences of the victim, a relative or friend.”
Logan adds, “As students deeply concerned about school safety, we believe that impactful change can begin on a local level. Promoting safe storage is simply common sense.”
In addition, the Staples SDA is distributing gun locks, and engaging in grassroots lobbying to encourage lawmakers to support legislation to expand secure storage or child-access prevention laws beyond the 26 states that currently have laws or practices in place. Social studies teacher Cathy Schager is the club advisor.
For more information on firearm safety, click here.
This flag flies outside Riverside Barber Shop, where Treadwell/Riverside/ Saugatuck Avenue intersection.
(Photo/Ed Simek)
It’s clever.
And also probably very illegal.
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The Saugatuck Rowing Club junior rowing program had a very successful showing at the recent USRowing Youth Nationals regatta in Sarasota, Florida.
SRC sent a club record 96 athletes to the event. Eight boats made the final.
The women’s U17 4+ A boat, including Westporters Luka Kuokalas, Annie Bowman, Ashlyn Frey and Olivia Saw won gold. This was the 4th national title in a row for that race.
The men’s U17 8+ boat, with Westporter’s Elena Nasar, Daniel Arava, Jack Mello, Liam Wiegand and Alex Proctor (Westport), placed third, just one second behind historic rival RowAmerica Rye.
Next up for Saugatuck Rowing Club: the Henley Royal Regatta in London next month.
Women’s U17 4+ A boat (from left): left to right: Luka Kuokalas, Olivia Saw, Ashlyn Frey, Annie Bowman, Mackenzie Fosdick. All but Mackenzie are from Westport.
Men’s U-17 8+ boat (from left): Coach Alex Vogt, Samuel Turok, Alex Proctor, Liam Wiegand, Jack Mello, Elena Nasar, Henry Basham, Gavin Remley, Will Firmender, Daniel Arava.
(Whether you’ve been here long enough to remember Klein’s, or arrived after OKA opened, “06880” is your place for hyper-local news. And everyone can click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Westport Astronomical Society will be there in force tomorrow (Saturday). But they won’t be riding the Ferris wheel, or even playing one of those galactic games.
The WAS will set up solar telescopes, so fairgoers can view the sun.
It’s full circle (ho ho). In 2017, the organization received a Westport Woman’s Club Ruegg Grant. They bought a Lunt 100mm solar telescope, for pristine views of the sun and its active atmosphere.
It, and other telescopes, will be there tomorrow. See the sun like never before!
If you were at Staples Pops Concert last week — or the Candlelight Concert, or any other show at the high school, middle schools or elementary schools this year — this is not exactly stop-the-presses news:
The Westport Public Schools have been honored with another “Best Communities for Music Education” award from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation.
The honor is getting routine. We’ve won it every year since 2013.
“Best Communities Music Education” designations go to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.
Criteria include funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs.
Over 200 students take part in the Candlelight Concert each year. Hundreds more participate in music programs at the middle and elementary schools.
Speaking of awards: Dozens of Westporters were proudly in the Hartford crowd Wednesday, as the Town of Westport, Westport Housing Authority and Homes with Hope were all honored by the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness.
All 3 groups received “Community Champions Awards,” for their continuing innovative practices and collaborative efforts, significantly impacting hundreds of people needing shelter and food.
Congratulations to all, on this major recognition!
Officials representing the town of Westport, Homes with Hope and Westport Housing Authority, and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, at Wednesday’s ceremony.
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There’s an old saying: “When you fall off a horse, get right back up.”
The same can be said about rowing shells.
In late March, over 2 dozen Saugatuck Rowing Club rowers and coaches were rescued from the frigid Long Island Sound after 3 shells capsized in a sudden squall. Significant equipment was lost.
Despite their challenging spring, the team put 8 boats into the A finals at USRowing Nationals last week — the most in the club history.
Now, for the first time, SRC will send a crew to the Henley Royal Regatta in England June 28 through July 8. It’s a great international test for the local club.
Though their commitments to attend the US Naval Academy and Military Academy, respectively, prevent them from competing in England, captains George Bentley and Dillon Bhutani have led fundraising effort for the trip by seeking sponsors for feats of endurance.
Travel to England is expensive, and requires specialized clothing (including a specific blazer and hat). Not all rowing families can manage the financial burden. To defray expenses, the team will stay with a host family rather than a hotel.
Donations of any size are welcome. Click here to help.
Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests last week.
An 18-year-old Weston man was charged with reckless driving, DUI under 21 years, passing in a no-passing zone and failure to drive n the proper lane, following a single-car rollover accident around 8:44 p.m. on May 14. Several witnesses described the driver’s reckless, aggressive habits prior to the crash.
A 26-year-old Danbury man was charged with evading responsibility, following too closely, and driving without a license, following an accident at 8:18 a.m. on May 9. A woman stopped in traffic on Bayberry Lane at Long Lots Road was struck from behind by an SUV. As she inspected the damage, the driver shrugged his shoulders and drove away. The woman took a photo of his license plate.
A 52-year-old Southbury man was charged with reckless burning, criminal mischief and threatening, following an investigation into an early morning April 2019 fire at the Saugatuck train station. Due to the man’s mental state at the time of the incident, he was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
A 36-year-old Torrington man was charged with burglary and larceny, following a November report of a burglary while a family was not home. A security camera showed the man entering the home. He was arrested after being implicated in another burglary in the neighborhood.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 19 citatiosn
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 6
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
Evading responsibility: 1
Driving while texting: 1
Distracted driving 1
Improper passing: 1
Failure to drive right: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Unsafe backing: 1
Unreadable license plates: 1
Failure to wear seat belt: 1
Improper turn signal lamps: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
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April Cunningham’s Westport roots run deep.
Her maiden name is Carusone. Her father was a Westport police officer. Her grandfather James Dorta worked for the town.
She fell on hard times. Both she and her husband are on disability. She has severe arthritis, while he has cataracts and needs surgery.
A couple of months ago, generous Westporters helped her and her husband with housing and food, in Milford.
Once again, they are on the verge of homelessness and hunger.
Click here to read the story of a local resident in need, with a link to a fund for assistance.
Russell Barnard, co-founder and publisher of Country Music Magazine, and longtime resident of Westport, died on February 5. He was 86.
He grew up in Pampa, Texas, then earned a degree in chemical engineering from Yale University in 1960.
After beginning his career at Sinclair Oil he soon moved to the music industry, working for Columbia Records in New York from 1963 to 1970, before turning to media and publishing.
In the early 70s he was a consultant to various media outlets and publications. He served as publisher of Harper’s Magazine from 1972 to 1976.
In 1972, he co-founded Country Music Magazine. With over 700,000 subscribers, it appealed to fans, music artists and industry executives, while never shying away from controversy or honest criticism.
Longtime contributor Rich Kienzle said that Barnard encouraged his writers —including luminaries like Patrick Carr, Nick Tosches and Peter Guralnick — to be “outlaw journalists,” like some country artists.
Barnard’s ability to spot, and foster, writing talent was as important to the magazine’s success as his ability to spot musical trends.
In 1988 he moved the magazine and his family from New York to Westport. Country Music had offices on Riverside Avenue and then Post Road East at Turkey Hill Road, where it remained until Barnard sold the magazine in 1999. The last issue was published in 2003.
In 2012, Barnard and his wife Helen — who worked as an editor of the magazine in Westport — moved back to New York City. He donated a collection of archived material to the University of North Carolina Wilson Special Collections Library, which Ken Burns drew on extensively for his documentary on the history of country music.
He is survived by Helen; their children Anne, John and Christopher, as well as 2 grandchildren. A small funeral was held in February at Willowbrook Cemetery, where he is buried.
Russ Barnard and Johnny Cash, at the singer’s Tennessee cabin.
That’s not the only local spot to tread lightly. This is a shot from Sherwood Island State Park — an excellent reminder of the wonders of “Westport … Naturally:
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