Only a few spots remain for one of the greatest offers of the new (or any) year: Scout Troops 39 and 139’s pick-up and (sustainable) removal of your once-beautiful, now dried-out Christmas tree.
It’s a win-win-win: convenient and affordable pick-up for residents; free mulch and conservation material for the town — and the only fundraiser of the year for the Scouts.
The event is all day, on January 10. Troops will pick up over 800 trees, in every neighborhood.
The suggested donation of $25 per tree — less than most services — helps fund a full year of Scout meetings, experiences and gear.
Sure, it’s New Year’s Day. There’s snow on the ground. We’ve got 79 days left till spring arrives.
But it’s not too early to think about golf.
The waitlist for the Longshore Ladies 9 Hole Golf Association opens tomorrow (Friday, January 2).
Membership offers access to league play, tournaments and skill‑building opportunities. This year, the League expands from 130 members to 135. Information for the waitlist and the forms can be found on the League’s website
Actress/dancer/choreographer/Kennedy Center Honors winner for lifetime achievement and contributions to American culture Carmen de Lavallade died Monday in New Jersey. She was 94.
For many years, she was associated with and married to Tony Award-winning actor/dancer/director Geoffrey Holder.
Yesterday, “06880” reader Karen Brailsford learned that the couple were married on June 26, 1955 at Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. A reception followed at the Westport estate of actress/producer Lucille Lortel.
Geoffrey Holder and Carmen de Lavallade, after their wedding at Christ & Holy Trinity Church. (Photos/Saul Mauriber via the Beinecke digital collection /Yale University)
================================================
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between December 23 and 30.
A 30-year-old Norwalk man was charged with larceny, attempt to commit larceny, payment of less than $500 using a revoked/stolen credit card, and failure to appear, following an investigation into a March credit card fraud report, with multiple purchases made at Home Depots in multiple states. The suspect was someone the victim previously employed as a contractor. He was unable to post bonds of $240,000.
A 29-year-old New York City man was charged with failure to appear, after being arrested on an unrelated matter in New York. He was unable to post bond of $150,000.
A 21-year-old Westport man was charged with disorderly conduct and threatening, after a verbal disturbance. He was unable to post $5,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Disorderly conduct: 1 citation
Breach of peace: 1
Texting while driving: 1
Traveling unreasonably fast: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1.
===========================================
Canada geese often act like they own our beach.
Not in the summer, guys.
But in winter — when no one is watching, except “Westport … Naturally” photographer David Cross — well, maybe they do.
And finally … January is named after Janus. The Roman god of beginnings is often depicted with two faces. One looks back to the past; the other, forward to the future.
If you dine in Saugatuck this Saturday, don’t be surprised if carolers come to your table.
You can even book a reservation, to make sure your evening is merry and bright.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual Saugatuck Caroling Crawl is set for December 20 (6 to 8 p.m.).
Staples High School’s elite Orphenians will sing a medley of songs, at 14 venues.
They begin at the Boathouse (Saugatuck Rowing Club), before heading to The Bridge, Kawa Ni, The Whelk, Tutti’s and the Black Duck.
Then it’s off to the train station, and Tarantino, Blu Olive and Romanacci. The final destinations are Riko’s Pizza, Zucca Gastrobar, Rizzuto’s, Viva Zapata and Little Pub @Dunville’s.
Joyeux Noël. And bon appétit!
Staples Orphenians: stars of the Saugatuck Caroling Crawl.
=================================================
Meanwhile, what will you do after Christmas?
Specifically, how will you get rid of that beautiful (but dried-out) tree — in an environmentally responsible way?
Scout Troops 39 and 139 will do it for you. It’s a win-win-win: convenient and affordable pick-up for residents; free mulch and conservation material for the town — and the only fundraiser of the year for the Scouts.
The event is all day, on January 10. Troops will pick up over 800 trees, in every neighborhood.
The suggested donation of $25 per tree — less than most services — helps fund a full year of Scout meetings, experiences and gear.
At Staples High School, the 1976 graduate was very involved with Players. He then co-founded a theater company in Massachusetts, and produced, directed and acted in an Equity troupe before retiring a year ago.
Mark Shanahan — now the Westport Country Playhouse artistic director — was a good friend of Kopko’s company; he directed, wrote and acted in many productions.
Kopko worked at the Playhouse while growing up. He always dreamed of performing on the legendary stage, but never got the chance.
His daughter is now an actor. She lives in Los Angeles, and over the years has worked with Shanahan.
Kopko was in the audience Sunday — proud of his daughter Alexandra, his friend Mark Shanahan, and the Playhouse where it all began.
Michael and Alexandra Kopko, at her Playhouse dressing room.
But that’s not all.
Kopko’s nostalgic weekend began the night before. He attended a caroling party — an annual tradition for over 40 years — hosted by Staples grads and musicians Brad Peterson (SHS ’75) and his wife Abby Anderson Peterson (’76).
A number of former Players and Orphenians were there — including the Petersons’ children Katie, Sarah and Scott. All are Staples grads too (2000, ’04 and ’12, respectively).
“Old” Orphenians. Brad Peterson is front right; Abby Peterson holds the candle.
Also this past weekend: the first snowfall of the season.
Did you notice how quickly and well the streets were plowed?
Maybe not. But Wendy Kleros and Claudia Coplen — co-chairs of the Westport Commission for Senior Services — did. They write:
“We extend our gratitude and appreciation to the entire Department of Public Works eam for their outstanding work clearing the roads and public parking lots.
“Their diligence and responsiveness make a meaningful difference for our community each and every day, particularly at the Senior Center, where safe and timely access is essential.
“Because of their efforts, older adults, staff, and visitors arrived safely and continued their daily routines without disruption. That kind of reliability brings real peace of mind, and reflects a deep commitment to public service.
“Their behind-the-scenes work often goes unnoticed. But its impact is felt by everyone, especially our senior residents who depend on clear, accessible pathways.
“We thank them for their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to keeping Westport safe and moving forward, no matter the conditions.”
The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is Thursday (December 18, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).
It’s open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.
Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.
RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.
PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!
Also at the VFW (as it is every Thursday): Jazz at the Post.
This week, guitarist Kenny Wessel — for years a key member of Ornette Coleman’s band, and now a Westport favorite and frequent collaborator with saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall — headlines the 2 shows (7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; click here for tickets and more information).
Also sitting in: bassist Boots Maleson and drummer Mike Campenni.
Longtime Westport resident Margery Silk died peacefully on Friday, at home. She turned 101 just 3 days earlier.
A third generation Californian — her great-grandparents founded the railroad and lumber town of Truckee in 1863 — she was valedictorian of her 1941 class at South Pasadena/San Marino High School.
Margery began her studies at Stanford University, then earned an undergraduate degree from UCLA and a master’s in art history from NYU.
She met her future husband — New Zealander and Life magazine photographer George Silk — while skiing at Stowe, Vermont.
Margery traveled the world pursuing her interests in art, architecture, birds and other animals, music and culinary pursuits.
Margery was a member of the Westport Garden Club, Bronx Botanical Gardens, the Bronx Zoo, and local tennis and bridge groups. At Cedar Point Yacht Club she crewed for her husband.
She was also active in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Aspetuck Land Trust (founding member), Friends of Sherwood Island, and Connecticut Audubon Society.
Her family calls Margery “that lady in tennis shoes and tennis skirt who came of age in the 1960s and ’70s, and who championed the ‘good fights’ by writing letters in many directions.” She helped lead the charge to defeat a plan to build a nuclear power plant on Cockenoe Island, in the 1960s.
Margery is survived by her children Stuart Silk, Georgiana Silk, and Shelley Silk
Wehrly and their spouses; grandchildren: Michael and Alexis Silk; Bryan, Kate
and Alexander Liggett, and Stuart Wehrly, Liza Wehrly Andrews and Christopher Wehrly and their spouses, and 12 great-grandchildren.
Staples High School’s 25th annual Scholar-Athlete dinner last night was — as always — a highlight of graduation week.
Athletic director VJ Sarullo and coaches presented plaques to one senior from each varsity sport. They were honored for their achievements beyond the field, court, track or pool. They were leaders in the classroom too, and the community.
Each answered one question about their academic interests, passions and hobbies. Those ranged from cancer research with fruit flies to ballroom dancing; from using a 3D printer to create prosthetic limbs, to gardening.
There are 40 varsity sports at Staples. Fall honorees were Sawyer Dalzell, Annabel Edwards, Tyla Ozgen, Perrin Root, Samantha Sandrew, Megan Sargent, Danielle Schwartz, Leo Skatoff, Aidan Stubbs, Grace Zhang and Sam Zwick-Lavinsky.
Winter sports honorees were Sofia Alarcon-Frias, Alessandro Alderucci, Rhiya Anand, Will Boberski, Audrey Curtis, Josh Ginsburg, Alexandra Hackett, Ella Harrington, Alexis Krenzer, Cooper Paul, Katherine Phelps, Tyler Signorile, Adam Udell, Evan Wallitt and Ben Zwick.
Spring sports honorees were Mark Adipietro, Nina Bowens, Ben Cukier, Shreyas Gorre, Madeline Hendley, Nate Hordon, Sophia Novello, Rachel Pontoriero, Cameron Prior, Vivian Shamie, Ryan Tzou, Edward van der Merwe and Sadie Vincini.
Sarullo handed out other awards too. The athletic department’s top 2 honors — the Thomas DeHuff and Jinny Parker Awards — went to Jake Goldshore and Addison Coughlin, respectively.
Laddie Lawrence Foundation scholarships of $7,000 each were presented to Sam Rondon, Preston Sirok and Sam Zwick-Lavinsky.
Nolan Francis won the Junior Leadership Award.
FCIAC Life Teammate Awards went to Brian Divino and Molly Whittle.
Prepzone founder Steve Divino and longtime trainer Corey Iamonico received Staples Athletics Appreciation Awards.
Staples High School athletic director VJ Sarullo, and trainer Corey Iamonico. (Photo/Michelle Garrity)
Speaking of sports: James Delorey sends this “love letter to Westport Little League”:
“On Saturday, the Westport Little League presented Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Awards in each of the league’s 4 divisions. What a beautiful day!
“Players nominate the teammate they believe exemplifies sportsmanship and effort to improve. The coaches say the kids ‘get it,’ and always seem to nominate players who, like Perrin, may not the star players but support their teammates and do their best to improve their game.
“Seven years ago this month — even before Perrin’s funeral had taken place — Westport Little League held a moving celebration of his life. They retired his Cubs #5 on the wall of Kowalsky Field, where he played his last game days before, and announced their intention to make sure players and their families remembered him and his spirit.
“Every year we hear from the Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Award nominees, and the winners and their families, about how much this award means to them.
“Yesterday Perrin’s sisters Mireille and Elodie got to celebrate with some of the nominees and winners — including one who lives on our road and who never met Perrin — and hear how Perrin’s memory is now a meaningful part of their lives. Tears now as I write.
“Our family is so grateful to Westport Little League and to the players, coaches and families who join, give, volunteer, and do their best to build a community of good. Play ball!”
AA Division Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Award winner Rivington Hall (holding plaque), with fellow AA Division nominees, Perrin’s father James, and sisters Mireille and Elodie Delorey. (Photo/Adam Hall)
Presentation to AAA Division Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Award winner Benjamin Gionfriddo. (Photo/Brian Marcucio )
A Division nominees with Perrin’s friend, Staples High School junior Harrison Sydor. Finnegan McDuffie (not pictured) was the A Division winner. Other nominees were (from left) James Ettinger, Patrick Downing, Kyle McInerny and Colton Galati. Also not shown: Royal Anderson. (Photo/Brian Marcucio)
Majors Division Perrin Ryan Delorey Sportsmanship Award winner Sam Katz. (Photo/Bill Ryan)
One of the founding members of the all-female Troop 139, just finishing her junior year at Staples, she had her Eagle Court of Honor yesterday.
Jordan’s parents are heavily involved in scouting. Katherine O’Brien served as Troop 139 scoutmaster for many years, while her father Andy O’Brien is scoutmaster of Troop 36 (where Jordan’s 2 brothers are also Scouts.)
Jordan O’Brien (center) and her family. (Hat tip and photo/Maggie Gomez)
Werner Liepolt says: “Respect your local snapping turtle” — especially during egg laying season. “She can easily snap off a finger, or a dog’s nosy nose.”
He “snapped” today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo on Green Acre Lane.
The Westport Country Playhouse’s gala fundraiser, celebrating WCP alumni Kristin Chenoweth and Mary-Mitchell Campbell — featuring their performances of Cy Coleman’s greatest hits, plus a roster of special guests — is a great draw.
But Harold Baily, Jr. and Bernicestine McLeod Bailey’s many friends have another reason to attend.
The couple — longtime Westport residents, and volunteers in a wide array of local activities (including the Playhouse) — will be honored with Leadership Awards.
The event is Saturday, September 14 (7 p.m.). Click here for tickets, and more information.
The popular Village Pediatrics doctor partnered with health influencer Dr. Tania Elliott on her most recent — and very timely — post: “4 Things Every Parent Should Know About Back to School.”
As a new school year begins, it’s a great time to be a Scout.
Or join a troop.
Middle school boys and girls are invited to learn about Scouting’s “family, fun, friends and a lifetime of adventure,” including camping, hiking, biking and backpacking.
Troop 139 (girls) and Troop 39 (boys) typically meet together once a week. There is at least 1 outing per month, and community service projects throughout the year.
The Troops host a welcome campfire at Greens Farms Congregational Church on Tuesday, September (7 p.m.) for 6th-8th graders to learn more.
Westport Police made 7 custodial arrests between August 21 and 28 — including one following the motor vehicle accident that closed the Merritt Parkway, and a search for fleeing suspects, near Clinton Avenue on Sunday.
That arrest — of an 18-year-old from Waterbury — began on July 14, with the theft of an unlocked Mercedes Benz from an open garage in Westport. A warrant was issued for that person’s arrest.
On Sunday, the same person was in another stolen vehicle that crashed. He fled the scene, was apprehended, and taken to Norwalk Hospital for injuries sustained in the crash. He was charged with evading responsibility, burglary, larceny of a motor vehicle, and conspiracy to commit larceny of a motor vehicle.
He was released on a $75,000 bond, and is due September 18 in Stamford Superior Court.
A 32-year-old Westport resident was charged with risk of injury to a child and disorderly conduct, after he and a family member were involved in an argument with pushing and shoving, while the other person was holding a child. He could not post a $100,000 bond.
A 36-year-oldl Greenwich man was charged with assault and breach of peace, after an incident at La Plage Restaurant. The complainant reported that the man was intoxicated, and assaulted him for no apparent reason. He then attempted to assault other patrons, and was restrained until police arrived.
A 23-year-old Norwalk man was charged with reckless driving, traveling unreasonably fast, engaging police in pursuit, failure to obey stop sign, failure to display lights and reckless endangerment, following an investigation into a July 25 incident after police attempted to stop a vehicle after a minor motor vehicle violation on Greens Farms Road near Hales Road. The driver refused to stop, and began driving erratically and aggressively attempting to elude police. The officer disengaged, but obtained the license plate. The driver posted a $25,000 bond, and has a September 13 court date at Stamford Superior Court.
A 37-year-old Stamford man was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, following too closely, failure to obey a stop sign, and illegal operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended license and without insurance, following investigation into a January accident with injuries at Greens Farms Road and Hales Couort.
A 59-year-old Queens man was arrested for failure to appear, following a 6 a.m. disturbance Tuesday on Wilton Road. When police arrived, he was found to have an active re-arrest warrant.
A 36-year-old Philadelphia man was charged with larceny and identity theft, following an investigation into an October report that 2 checks were stolen from the blue USPS box outside the Playhouse Square post office, altered and deposited. He posted a $25,000 bond, and has a September 30 date at Stamford Superior Court.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 24 citations
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 15
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 7
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 4
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Disorderly conduct: 2
Speeding: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
Improper use of markers: 2
assault: 1
Criminal mischief: 1
Passing a standing school bus: 1
Transporting a child 2-5 years old, under 40 pounds without restraints: 1
Improper passing: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to register a commercial motor vehicle: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
Children two to five years old, or weighing less than 40 pounds, must use a child restraint with a 5-point harness. It’s the state law!
And finally … Today is the 100th anniversary of the birth of Dinah Washington. The 1950s jazz vocalist was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama in 1924. She died just 39 years later, in Detroit.
(You can make a difference in our “06880” day. Please click here, to support our work. [It’s tax-deductible.] Thank you!)
But yours probably paled in comparison with the one Andrew Colabella attended.
The Westport Representative Town Meeting member headed to Washington, and a special Supreme Court gathering in their East Conference Room.
He and his date, Viviana Vasiu, hung out with the justices.
And sang Christmas carols led by a great tenor (Chief Justice John Roberts), a gifted alto (Justice Amy Coney Barrett), and some of the high court’s most interesting colleagues and friends.
Andrew calls himself Viviana’s “very lucky” date. She is one of 4 fellows selected each year for a prestigious fellowship program created by former Chief Justice Warren Burger.
Andrew Colabella and Viviana Vasiu, at the Supreme Court party.
This was the fellowship’s first holiday party since 2020.
“I was walking among the brightest and most successful law and policy makers, in the last great cathedral of the United States,” Andrew reports.
All of the justices were “very friendly and warm. They conversed with everyone.”
He says that Viviana is “proof that the American Dream still exists.” She came to the US at 18 from Eastern Europe. After starting at a community college, she graduated at the top of her class at both Stetson University and its law school. He calls himself “her biggest supporter and fan.”
As for Chief Justice Roberts’ excellent singing voice: “He killed it,” Andrew says.
Chief Justice John Roberts leads the caroling. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
=================================================
Can we get $3,348?
That’s all that’s needed for Westport to reach its goal of $60,000. With just $3,348, we can fund two wood pellet machines — and provide heat, all winter long, to 2,000 residents of our sister city: Lyman, Ukraine.
Two anonymous gifts — and many smaller ones — have brought us thisclose to the end of our holiday fund drive.
One donation of $30 can help one family through the long winter. $300 can help 10 families. One gift of $3,000 will put us almost over the top.
To donate by credit card, click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo. Thank you!
Christmas is still 6 days away. We’re sure your tree looks gorgeous.
But a few days after that, you’ll start thinking about how to get rid of it.
As they do every year, Scout Troops 39 and 139 can help.
Their annual Christmas tree pickup is January 6. Just fill out this form.
Then put your tree by your mailbox by 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 6. The suggested donation is $20 per tree (though you can of course give more!). Put it in an envelope (cash or check made payable to “Troop 39”); tape it to you front door.
All trees will be mulched into wood chips, and donated to the town for landscaping projects. Funds raised help pay for Scout activities all year long, and for chipping expenses.
NOTE: Scouts cannot take wreaths or garlands. The wires ruin tree chippers.
A raucous home crowd cheered on the Staples High School boys basketball team last night, as they started on the road to their 2nd straight state championship appearance by dominating Newtown, 73-57.
Dozens of young Westport PAL players were in the packed stands. They got an extra-special treat when Larry Johnson — the former New York Knicks and Charlotte Hornets player — joined them.
At halftime, they swamped the ex-pro with autograph requests. Smiling, he signed every one — including a paper towel.
Larry Johnson, and young fans. (Photo/Lisa Newman)
“Sheppy” has worked at The Home Cook on Saugatuck Avenue for almost 3 years. He’s a key member of the “heat and eat” food service.
After a recent diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes, an infection in his foot required amputation. Owner Stephanie Berghoff organized a GoFundMe fundraiser to help with Sheppy’s significant medical bills.
Brian Marsella returns to Westport, for this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, December 21, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399).
Called “a psychedelic Art Tatum,” the pianist has toured the world. Now he’s back wit bassist Reid Taylor, drummer Brian Floody and saxophonist Greg Wall.
All wowed the Jazz at the Post crowd, earlier this fall.
There’s a $15 music charge. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
Dozens of volunteers headed to Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road yesterday, to lay wreaths on 400 veterans’ graves.
The event — part of the national Wreaths Across America program — was organized by the indefatigable Patty Kondub. She’s vice president of the VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 Auxiliary — and her father John, a World War II veteran and VFW Post 399 member, is buried in that cemetery.
Scouts from Troops 39 and 139 aided the effort.
Volunteer Johanna Keyser Rossi reports, “As we placed our wreaths, we thanked each veteran personally.”
Volunteers carefully lay wreaths, at Assumption Cemetery. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
Our median age is 45.2. That’s older than the median for all of Connecticut: 40.9. Overall, the American Community Survey says, our state is the 7th oldest in the country. (Maine is the oldest, with a median age of 44.8. Utah is the youngest: 31.4).
As for the Land of Steady Habits, the oldest town in Connecticut is Sherman. Its median age is 58.2. The youngest is Mansfield: 21.1. Of course, Storrs — where the University of Connecticut is located — is part of Mansfield.
Here’s something we haven’t seen in a while: gas below $3 a gallon.
Bob Weingarten spotted this sign at the Cumberland Farms near Stop & Shop:
(Photo/Bob Weingarten)
Of course, what’s good for the consumer is not always good for the planet. The cheaper it is to fill our tanks, the more we drive.
=================================================
Ed Gerber is one of Westport’s most noted preservationists. From his 93 Cross Highway home to his work with local homeowners, he’s a gem at keeping local gems.
But he’s well known in the larger resetoration world too, for his work with Preservation Connecticut and as a trustee of Historic New England,
Now he’s gotten national recognition. The Woodrow Wilson House Museum recently presented him with a medallion from President Biden, as thanks for Gerber’s 50 years of volunteer service.
The Washington, DC home where the 28th president lived after leaving office, and where he died in an upstairs bedroom, is a National Historic Landmark. It is owned and operated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Ed Gerber and his president medallion, with Woodrow Wilson House Museum director Elizabeth Karcher.
Did you know that the International Space Station was nearly lost, due to computer failures?
Dr. Bob Dempsey knows.
The former NASA flight director for the ISS visits — virtually — the Westport Astronomical Society on January 17 (8 p.m.).
As the guest on their free monthly webinar, he’ll describe the 2001 events that led to the loss of all command and control computers. It was the flight control team’s “Apollo 13” moment, as they identified problems and mounted a never-before-attempted recovery.
Christine Ohlman — the platinum blonde “Beehive Queen,” and longtime “Saturday Night Live” — joined Rebel Montez in the Trefz Forum, for a Winter Dance Party.
A packed house enjoyed another typical night, at what is fast becoming Westport’s favorite musical venue.
Christine Ohlman, Rebel Montez and the band, last night at the Westport Library.
Speaking of entertainment: Buffalo Rose brings their modern folk/Americana music to Voices Café at Westport’s Unitarian Church on January 21 (8 p.m.).
The Pittsburgh-based 6-piece group is known for powerful vocal harmonies, strong playing and an original vision. They drew raves from their Levitt Pavilion performance in 2021.
There’s café-style tables (reservations from groups of 4 or more) or individual seats. Guests are encouraged to bring their own beverages and snacks.
General admission is $25 per person. The event is livestreamed too (free).
A portion of the proceeds benefit the battle against food insecurity, through the Bridgeport Center for Food Equity and Economic Development (FEED).
Longtime Westporter Shirley Appy — an actor and pioneer in the early days of live television — died peacefully on Friday, at 95.
Since 2009 she was a resident of Applewood, an independent living retirement community in Amherst, Massachusetts, where she welcomed countless visitors, family, and friends.
Appy was born Shirley Joy Krehbiel in Colfax, Washington in 1927. After graduating from Grant High School in Portland, Oregon she received a full scholarship from the School of Drama at the University of Washington, where she gave more than 600 performances. In 1949 she married Gerard Appy, also a drama major at Washington.
After a brief stint running a new radio station in Colby, Kansas, the couple moved to Atlanta, Georgia to open The Penthouse Theatre, located on the top floor of the Ansley Hotel. It was modeled on the Penthouse Theatre at the University of Washington — the first theatre-in-the-round in the United States.
The Atlanta theater flourished for 3 years. Appy, under the stage name Shirley Krayble, appeared in many plays, alongside well-known actors such as Joan Blondell, Mike Todd and Zero Mostel.
In 1951 Appy turned to television. For several years she hosted 2 daily live shows: “The Little People,” where she interacted with pre-schoolers, and “Shopping Atlanta,” a consumer advice show.
Appy ended her television career to be a full-time mother to her 2 children. In 1964 the family moved to Westport, where she turned her attention to a wide variety of creative pursuits.
A gifted artist, craftsperson and gardener, she produced award-winning works in stained glass, decoupage and watercolors.
In 1981 Appy and her husband moved back to the Northwest, where he became the director of Oregon Public Broadcasting. For Shirley, it was a return to her childhood hometown.
She is survived by her children, Karen (Stephen) Baumann and Christian (Katherine) Appy, 7 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
If it’s New Year’s, it’s time to … get rid of the Christmas tree.
It can be disposed of online — well, the registration is done that way, anyway. Scout Troops 39 and 139 will happily pick up yours. Click here for the form.
You’ll get a confirmation email. Then, this Saturday (January 7 — by 6:30 a.m.), put your tree by your mailbox.
There’s a suggestion donation of $20 per tree. Tape an envelope with cash or check (payable to “Boy Scout Troop 39”) to your front door.
NOTE: All Christmas trees are mulched into wood chips, and donated to the town. So no wreaths or garlands (the wires ruin the machinery).
Also seen at Compo Beach: this message to “rock” (ho ho) 2023.
It’s the handiwork of Ross and Wendy McKeon. And the “rock” part can be taken literally: They’re the parents of 2000 Staples High School graduate Drew McKeon. Among his many talents, he’s the longtime drummer in fellow Westporter Michael Bolton’s band.
Yesterday’s Roundup included a photo of a utility pole on Hillandale Road. An “06880” reader explained why it’s hard to get broken ones fixed, or obsolete wires or cables removed.
The example shown was hardly the worst. Michael Lonsdale noticed more, on the short stretch of Kings Highway North between Main and Canal Streets.
(Photos/Michael Lonsdale)
It will not be easy to address the issue. Each pole has multiple “owners” — Eversource, Altice and Frontier, for example.
Low hanging wires and excess poles are low priorities. They’re prime candidates for buck-passing.
But the lower the wires droop, and the more old poles tilt and rot, the more dangerous they are.
When they come down in a storm, excess poles and obsolete cables make clean-up that much harder.
Our electric and telecom companies have lots to do. Removing unsightly — even dangerous — wires and poles are not at the top of their lists.
And unlike weeds or brush, this is not something we can take in our own hands.
Thoughts? Click “Comments” below. Please be constructive, not nasty. And be sure to use your full, real name.
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
