Win Headley — one of the most storied athletes in Staples High School history — died last Wednesday in Naples, Florida. He was 73 years old. His family says:
Born on the Fourth of July 1949, Winthrop (Win) Sargent Headley was a real-life Yankee Doodle Dandy.
He became an All-American football player, a lifelong football coach, a successful Wall Streeter, a loving family man, a passionate volunteer, an avid golfer, a loyal friend and a man of faith.
Win was born in California and raised in Westport. He starred as a Staples football player, and state champion heavyweight wrestler.
Win attended Wake Forest University, where he was a football All-American, captain and MVP on its ACC championship team. He received WFU’s first annual prestigious Arnold Palmer and Brian Piccolo Awards as an outstanding athlete, and is in the university’s Hall of Fame.
Win Headley at Wake Forest University.
He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers, and played for the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League. His career was shortened by injury.
He found a true calling as a coach. Over the years, Win coached at 3 universities (Winston-Salem State, Wake Forest and Princeton) and several high schools.
While in Princeton, New Jersey Win married Patty Cashill. They raised a family, and he had a long, successful career as a financial advisor for institutional investments.
In retirement in Naples Win continued to coach. He also volunteered in libraries, animal shelters and with the Knights of Columbus.
As Arnold Palmer would say, Win “played on through” when he peacefully passed away in his sleep on January 18.
Win Headley
Win is survived by his wife Patty; children Summer and Jonathan; sister Lynn Kelly (Michael); 2 nieces, 1 nephew; stepdaughter-in-law Rachel Y. Watlington, and step-grandson Christopher T. Watlington. He was predeceased by his stepson, Thomas Watlington III.
As Win would say, “The long and short of it”: Winthrop Sargent Headley was a man of passion and faith. He was a loving father and husband, and a devoted friend.
There will be a celebration of his life at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, Win would have appreciated your support for the Deacon Club (499 Deacon Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27105) and the Humane Society of Naples (370 Airport-Pulling Road, North Naples, FL 34104).
As of last night, over $73,000 had been donated. That’s nearly 1/3 of the way to repair 150 homes destroyed by Russian forces, give generators to all, and provide a water filtration system to the town.
Thanks to a partnership with Brian and Marshall Mayer — the Westporters who founded the non-profit Ukraine Aid International — the supplies can be delivered to the desperate town within 3 days.
As noted yesterday, the goal of $250,000 — by Christmas — is certainly reachable. It’s only $10 for every resident of Westport.
Of course, not everyone can afford that. If you can, please consider a donation for those who cannot.
To donate to the non-profit, just click here. Click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.) You can also donate directly, via Stripe (click here).
“06880” reader Jamie Klein has a great idea. She sent yesterday’s story to neighbors and friends, with this note:
This is one example of what is special about living in this town. What a great gift for someone in your family, or as a thoughtful hostess gift for one of the parties you may be attending.
As we enter the holiday season the message of miracles and hope are a theme across all faiths, and from our small place on this earth, we can make a miracle happen.
Thanks for all who have contributed to help rebuild Lyman, and all who will do so. Let’s double that $73,000 by tonight!
Christmas in Lyman. 150 out of 240 homes have been destroyed — including this one.
Meanwhile, another local drive for Ukrainian aid bore fantastic fruit.
When Mark Yurkiw learned there was space in a container leaving in 10 days, he acted fast.
He put out the word on “06880.” In just over a week, readers delivered 8 whole house generators, 8 gas chain saws, 8 phone power banks, 20 sleeping bags, 20 flashlights, 2 kerosene heaters, plus boxes of rechargeable batteries, winter blankets, pillows, and children’s warm winter clothing, to his door.
All those items are now on their way to that embattled nation. Each one can help change lives.
“Thank you, Westport!” Mark says. “It takes a village.”
Ukrainians Ross Voytovych (now of Ridgefield) and Dima Dovgan (Redding) move equipment to be loaded on to a tractor trailer.
It will be lit tomorrow (Wednesday, December 21) at 5:30 p.m., in front of Anthropologie on the Post Road at Church Lane. The entire community is invited, with jelly doughnuts and chocolate gelt for all.
Bill Mitchell of Mitchells — long involved in interfaith efforts — will have the honor of lighting the candles.
This menorah and lighting is a joint effort of Beit Chaverim, Chabad of Westport, Temple Israel, and The Conservative Synagogue.
The downtown menorah, in 2020. (Photo/Arlene Yolles)
Who knew so many Westporters read the New York Post?
A dozen or so readers sent links yesterday to the tabloid’s story that began:
A former New York University director of finance allegedly siphoned $3.5 million meant for minority and women-owned businesses and blew some of the cash on herself — including on an $80,000 pool for her Connecticut home, prosecutors said Monday.
Cindy Tappe, 57, was charged with diverting funds from New York State Education Department grants into shell companies that she created over a six-year scheme that was discovered in 2018, when she left NYU, according to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.
Some of the embezzled money went to expenses related to the grants or employee reimbursements — but at least $660,000 ended up in Tappe’s own pockets, according to the indictment.
She allegedly spent the dough on personal expenses, including the pool and renovations on her her home in Westport, Connecticut.
The scam started with a $23 million grant awarded to NYU’s Metropolitan Center for Research on Equity and Transformation, where Tappe worked, with the cash meant to go to state programs to help special education students and those learning English.
The good news is: Staples High School has two All-State first team selections — out of only 26 in all of Connecticut. Congratulations, Caleb Smith and Tyler Clark!
The interesting twist: They’re longtime friends — and grew up on the same small street.
There are only 9 homes on Twin Falls Lane. So more than 20% of them are the homes of All-State football players!
PS: Congrats too to James Hillhouse, who made the All-LL/L (large schools) all-state squad.
(From left): Tyler Clark, Caleb Smith, James Hillhouse.
All you ever wanted to know about white oaks is now on a video starring Westport Tree Board member Dick Stein.
Produced by fellow member Frank Rosen, the 8-minute piece covers their distinguishing features, history in Westport (the Bedford family helped with acorns), and more.
It was filmed in familiar places, like Sherwood Island State Park. Click below to learn about those ubiquitous (and handsome) species.
Speaking of Hanukkah etc. … The Jazz at the Post folks say: “It’s that time of year again. Why have our favorite holiday tunes been relegated to lifeless background music, advertising jingles or Muzak?
“In the hands of inspired musicians, the holiday repertoire makes for a fine opportunity for a night of hard swinging jazz.
“Name your holiday: Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, even Festivus (for the rest of us) — we got it covered!”
This Thursday (December 22), Jazz at the Post (VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399) hosts a “Holiday Swingfest.” The lineup includes pianist Dave Childs, drummer Greg Burrows, bassist Joe Fitzgerald, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
“Special guests and elves are sure to drop by” too, they say.
Shows are 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., with dinner beginning at 7:30. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
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And speaking (still) of the holidays:
Cecily Anderson is a talented art teacher.
How talented? Check out this great holiday installation piece. It’s drawing stares — and raves — at its pop-up location, right there at BMS. (Hat tip: Kerry Long)
Popup Bagels — the Westport-based company that has taken the tri-state area by storm (including several out-of-the-suburbs-and-into-the-city awards at Brooklyn BagelFest) — has some eye-popping news.
They just closed on a second round of (poppy) seed funding. Founder and CEO Adam Goldberg calls it “a few million dollars — more than a couple.” That’s on top of about $250,000 last year.
The most recent funding was led by film producer John Davis. Other investors include actors Patrick Schwarzenegger and Paul Rudd; swimmer Michael Phelps, and NFL players JJ and TJ Watt, and Michael Strahan.
The company will now hire a team to examine expansion ideas, including more locations in the New York area (and possibly adding Los Angeles). They’ll also add production capability.
Click here for the full story, from Restaurant Business.
Adam Goldberg, with his Brooklyn BagelFest awards.
“Spirited” — the Christmas-themed musical comedy retelling of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” — has opened to great reviews. It’s in theaters, and streaming on Apple TV.
The music-writing team includes 2003 Staples High School graduate Justin Paul, and his songwriting partner Benj Pasek (“Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman”).
Justin — also credited as an executive producer — said he had “a blast” working on the score during the pandemic, on Zoom.
In this quick, intriguing interview below, he provides a bit of the back story:
Speaking of cinema: “Small Town Movie” is making its way to distribution.
And that “small town” is Westport.
Jarret Liotta — a Staples High School graduate, now a journalist and writer — filmed the dark satire that tries to make sense (“or non-sense”) of racism, gun violence and modern cancel culture in an “average, upper middle class, affluent Connecticut town.”
The timely script will make audiences laugh. “Or furious, depending on their mood that day,” Jarret says.
His goal is to “poke fun at everyone equally, regardless of their social or political views. Hopefully it provides a minor epiphany for everyone — about themselves and the comical world in which we live.
“If Westporters enjoyed my smarmy columns and editorial writing in the past, they’ll probably adore this flick,” Jarret — former editor of Westport Journal — adds.
“If they hated them, this will help them hate me even more.”
The film includes original music by Staples grads Tom Shaner and Margot Liotta.
Jarret plans a screening in Westport after the holidays. Then, he hopes, it will start getting attention from film festivals.
The Staples football team’s quest for a state tournament semifinal berth fell a few agonizing inches short last night.
The Wreckers — seeded 4th in the “LL” (extra large schools) division — dropped a 23-22 heartbreaker to #5 Fairfield Prep, at Paul Lane Field.
The game came down to the final seconds. With no timeouts left, Staples junior quarterback Caleb Smith brought his team 77 yards in the final 2:22. A pass into the end zone was broken up with 3 seconds to go. A final 29-yard field goal attempt was just wide.
Congratulations to coach Adam Behrends and his squad for an excellent 9-2 season. This was the Wreckers’ first playoff game in 7 years.
Quarterback Caleb Smith. (Photo/John Nash courtesy of The Ruden Report)
WestportMoms’ Holiday Shopping Event always draws a huge crowd to the Westport Country Playhouse. Vendors offer nearly everything shoppers need to complete their gift list.
This year, it’s moving inside, to the Playhouse barn. (Some tables will be outside too). It’s set for this Friday (December 2, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
Warm drinks will be provided. Those WestportMoms think of everything.
Westporters raveled to Guatemala this month to help expand a local English academy, and also create healthy cooking stoves for local families.
Led by Howard Greene, chair of the non-profit Friends of BEA, the group spent a week building 2 middle school classrooms, painting the exterior, erecting a fence, and working in homes to build energy-efficient and properly ventilated cooking stoves. They also met students, and observed classes.
Among the volunteers: Howard and Joyce Greene, Jeff and Nancy Plotkin, Dan and Ivy Guetta, Robert and Heidi Flicker, Tony and Amy Riggio, Steve and julie Lewine, and Mark Mathias.
The Guatemala group.
Balanya English Academy provides high quality, English-based education, and supportive services to students, their families and the local community. The goal is to prepare graduates to work in an increasingly globalized world.
Longtime Westport resident Dr. Paul Schulman died peacefully in his sleep last month, doing what he and his late wife Susan loved: traveling overseas. He was 89 years old.
He was the highly respected chief of hematology and oncology at Norwalk Hospital. He also served at both Yale New Haven Hospital and Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York.
Paul was born in New York, graduated from Columbia College and SUNY Medical School, and served in the US Air Force.
After he and Susan married in 1965 they moved to Westport, and purchased a home on Twin Oaks Lane in 1968 in anticipation of a family. They raised Heidi and Bruce, both of whom graduated from Staples High School.
Paul coached Little League baseball and softball. He played tennis with friends, enjoyed Westport Pizzeria, and dropped in at Harvey’s Liquor Locker and Klein’s (to purchase action thrillers). Paul and Susan spent many weekend nights dining at Mario’s.
He and Susan shared a passion for art and antiques, especially clocks, which he collected and wound every Sunday. Their collections were fueled by their intrepid travel. Paul and Susan were among early visitors to Antarctica, Burma (now Myanmar), China, and New Guinea, among many other destinations.
After spending nearly 40 years in Westport, Paul and Susan retired to South Carolina and Marbella, Spain. After Susan died in 2016 Paul moved into Fox Hill Residences in Bethesda, Maryland, near where his son lives with his family.
Paul was an active member of the Fox Hill community, participating in the quarterly “radio show,” passing evenings at his end stool at the bar, and watching his grandsons in sports and school activities. He became dear friends with the late Rhoda Herman. Together they enjoyed weekends at her country home in Leesburg, Virginia.
Paul is survived by his children Bruce (Frazier) and Heidi Greenwald (Brad), and 5 grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a memorial page at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
A service to celebrate his life will be held in Bethesda in January. Email Bruce (bschulman@hotmail.com) for details.
And finally … Louise Tobin died Saturday in Texas. She was 104.
In 1939, the vocalist with Benny Goodman’s orchestra was ready for national fame. But her husband — bandleader/trumpeter Harry James — had her put her career on hold, to further his own career.
They divorced 4 years later. She raised 2 sons, and was forgotten. But her career was jump started years later in New Orleans, when Al Hirt recognized her and invited her on stage.
The “official” town event is Thursday (December 1, 5 p.m., Town Hall). The evergreen by Myrtle Avenue will glow, and Staples High School’s Orphenians will sing.
The next night (Friday, December 2, 4:30 p.m.), it’s Wakeman Town Farm’s turn. This one features treats from The Porch, hot chocolate from The Granola Bar, a bonfire and local musicians.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker does the honors at both. She’ll be joined at WTF by Wakeman family member Bill Constantino.
The Christmas tree at Town Hall, following a lighting ceremony.
Are you a fan of the other football, but didn’t get a chance to see the Staples High School football team’s dramatic 39-38 win over archrival Greenwich on Thanksgiving Day?
Click below, for a very cool highlight video. It was produced and edited by senior Daniel Burgin, with video shot by junior Charlie Scott.
The win vaulted the Wreckers into tonight’s state “LL” quarterfinal playoff game against Fairfield Prep (6:30 p.m., Staples’ Paul Lane Field). It’s the blue-and-whites’ first post-season appearance in 7 years.
Can’t make that one either? Click here for the livestream.
“Fine jewelry” and “rescue animals” may never have appeared in the same sentence.
Thanks to JL Rocks, they do now.
The high-end Post Road East retailer partnered with designer Peggy Reiner, for a new collection of whimsical animal-inspired pieces. Proceeds benefit PAWS (Pet Animal Welfare Society) in Norwalk and 4LittlePaws rescue in Southport.
“It’s a great gift that gives back to pets in need,” says JL Rocks founder/owner Jamie Camche. “Animals have given us so much. We want to give back to them.”
The collection features 3 diamond-studded designs: petite 14K gold pawprint earrings, 14K gold chains with diamond pave dog bone, and paw charms. It’s available at JL Rocks’ Westport and Greenwich stores, and online.
“Pepsi, Where’s My Jet?” debuted on Netflix this month. The docuseries is about theLeonard v. Pepsico, Inc. court case — you know, the one where the college kid thought he found a loophole in a Pepsi promotion, and sued them to win a fighter plane. Reviews were good.
The “06880” connection: 2007 Staples High School graduate Nick Boak is an executive producer.
Spoiler alert: The guy never got his jet. (Hat tip: Mark Mathias)
We need a face painter for this weekend’s Holiday Stroll (Saturday, December 3, 5 to 7 p.m., Main Street and environs).
If you (or your daughter or son) are available to help with this great kids’ activity, please email 06880blog@gmail.com.
For more details on the Holiday Stroll — co-sponsored by “06880” and the Westport Downtown Association — including the nearly 40 participating retailers and restaurants — click here.
The weekend weather report is good. But Bedford Middle School will be “Frozen.”
On December 2, 3 and 4, Bedford Acting Group takes the stage in “Frozen Jr.”
The 7th and 8th grade actors were toddlers when the movie hit theaters in 2013 (!), Yet they know its characters and songs well. At last, they can perform it.
The curtain rises Friday (7 p.m.), Saturday (3 and 7 p.m.) and Sunday (3 p.m.). Click here for the few remaining tickets.
The Bedford Acting Group cast and crew of “Frozen Jr.”
Every year they design and maintain the Atrium Garden at Earthplace in Westport, and the Victorian Cottage on Fairfield’s Town Green.
They provide horticultural therapy events at STAR in Norwalk, and make flower arrangements for the Pequot Library Art Show.
The Greens Farms Garden Club also manages 3 “Growing for Good” gardens: Prospect Garden and Wakeman Town Farm in Westport, and St. Timothy’s Church Garden in Fairfield.
They were planted and cared for throughout spring, summer and fall, with over 180 buckets of fresh organic produce harvested and donated to help with food insecurity at Mercy Learning Center and St. John’s Family Center in Bridgeport.
A highlight of the year came at the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut 93rd annual awards luncheon. Wynn Herrmann — a 30-year veteran — was recognized for Civic Development. Dina Schmidt and Jude earned Certificates of Merit for the club’s monthly newsletters and website, respectively.
For more information about the Greens Farms Garden Club, including events and membership, click here.
Greens Farms Garden Club members (seated, from left): Chris Supernaw, Wynn Herrmann, Judy Reynolds, Ann Watkins. Standing: Kate Carroll, president Kathy Mitchell, Carol Shear, Jude Smith, vice president Maybette Waldron.
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” — Vince Guaraldi’s timeless, feel-good music — gets the jazz treatment on Saturday (December 3).
The Heather Pierson Trio comes to the Westport Unitarian Church’s Voices Café at 4 p.m., for an in-person and livestreamed holiday concert.
Show-goers can bring snacks and beverages. Groups of 4 or more can reserve tables. For more information and tickets, click here.
Voices Café and its artists are committed to social justice. A portion of the proceeds benefit the battle against food insecurity, through Mercy Learning Center.
It’s late November. But the leaves on a few trees are still hanging on.
Fred Cantor photographed one of them at Old Mill Beach. Its a vivid reminder of the “Westport … Naturally” beauty that surrounds us everywhere we look.
And finally … in honor of today’s crucial World Cup clash between the US and Iran (story above), here is the greatest pump-up soccer song ever. Crank the volume up to Spinal Tap 11, and enjoy!
(Wave that flag for “06880”! Please click here to support our work.)
Congratulations to the Staples High School football team!
In a wild Thanksgiving game at Paul Lane Field with 7 lead changes — and an especially crazy final 1:30 — the Wreckers prevailed over Greenwich, 39-38.
Victory for the Wreckers! (Photo/Greershotz Photography)
Staples’ first victory over the Cardinals in 5 years — despite several nail-biters — was an important one.
The blue-and-whites — now 9-1 — secured a home game for the first round of the state class “LL” (extra large schools) playoff. They host Fairfield Prep on Tuesday. Kickoff is 6:30 p.m.
Also Thursday: Over 50 alumni and varsity players participated in Staples boys soccer annual Turkey Bowl.
The oldest participant was Dave Wilson, a former Wrecker captain and Dartmouth College captain from Staples’ Class of 1975. The youngest were current sophomores — a 50-year gap.
The event raises funds for the Albie Loeffler Scholarship.
This is the final weekend for the Westport Community Theater’s (and long-COVID-delayed 65th season) presentation of “Ghost-Writer.”
The 90-minute play ia directed by Alexander Kulcsar, and features Ann Kinner, Rob Pawlikowski, and Deborah Carlson.
Performances are tonight (Saturday, November 26, 8 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, 2 p.m.), at Town Hall. Tickets are $25. For reservations, call 203-226-1983. For more information, click here.
Wakeman Town Farm raised nearly $100,000 at their annual Harvest Fest. The evening featured fantastic food and drinks, a kick-ass band, and the always-special pastoral setting.
The tent … (Photo/Gregg Bromberg)
… the food … (Photo/Dan Woog)
… the band … (Photo/Dan Woog)
… and the $20,000 check from Earth Animal. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Yesterday also marked the final day of StoryFest, the Westport Library’s celebration of the story in all forms. It’s the largest literary festival in Connecticut.
Panels included this one on activism …
… and the finale, which included food, drink, and the “Reading Glasses” podcast, live from the Library stage.
Friday was a big night for Staples High School football.
After an address by 3 active servicemembers, quarterback Caleb Smith led the Wreckers to a 42-13 rout of Conard-West Hartford. It was the season opener for both teams, at Paul Lane Field.
And the Gridiron Club presented Catch-a-Lift founder Lynn Coffland with a check for $23,000. Funds were raised this summer by the club and players, who participated in the “Murph Challenge.” The money helps post-9/11 combat wounded veterans, with gym memberships and fitness rehabilitation.
The Wreckers travel to St. Joseph next Saturday, for a 1:30 p.m. contest.
Gridiron Club and Catch-a-Lift representatives are all smiles Friday night.
And if you read People magazine, you can read all about the marriage itself.
It happened Sunday, at the Ebell Club in Long Beach, California. The 130 guests included some of Britt’s co-stars from “Glow” and “The Thing About Harry.”
People noted their high school connection, and included exclusive photos.
Taber Onthank and Britt Baron (Photo courtesy of People Magazine by Albany Katz)
One detail that People missed: The wedding was officiated by Taber and Britt’s longtime friend — and former fellow Staples Player — Adam Kaplan. He was ordained for the ceremony by the Universal Life Church.
(Click here to read the entire People Magazine story. Hat tip: Liz Rueven)
John and Melissa Ceriale have spent 20 years buying property, planning and planting an oasis between Greens Farms Road and Hillspoint Road.
Prospect Gardens — nearly 9 acres of flowers, shrubs, lawns, walking paths, meadows, orchards, trees and more — are a delight for anyone driving on Prospect Road, or walking past.
Usually, the beauty can only be enjoyed from the street. But on Saturday, September 17 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
The event is sponsored by the Garden Conservancy. Tickets are $10 each. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Though they are bunched nicely, that’s still a lot of them.
And they’re hanging awfully low.
Recent “06880” posts and comments have mentioned the preponderance of wires — telephone, cable, etc. — and the fact that inoperative or outdated wires are seldom removed, just abandoned.
Every company that owns wires points fingers at everyone else. Meanwhile, this is what we’ve got.
On the eve of the opening match of Staples High School boys soccer’s 64th season, here’s news about the 63rd:
For the 20th time in 22 years — and the 17th season in a row — the Wreckers were honored with a national award for academic excellence.
United Soccer Coaches presents the Team Academic Award. A squad must have a 3.25 grade point average for all varsity players. The award is given for the previous academic year. In 2020, Staples’ varsity players had an average GPA of 3.67 — the highest on record for the Wreckers.
Indications are good that the 2022 squad — whose first home match is Saturday (10 a.m.) — will continue the impressive streak.
The 2021 Staples High School boys soccer team. (Photo/Barry Guiduli)
For 8 years, Westport has supported Catch-a-Lift Fund. The national organization serving post-9/11 combat-wounded veterans through fitness programs and gym memberships has run fundraisers, workout sessions and more here.
The Police and Fire Departments, town officials, the VFW, and local gyms, restaurants, business owners and residents have rallied behind the cause.
Now our town’s support will be visible at every youth and high school football game. Every player, from PAL 4th graders through Staples seniors, will wear the CAL logo on their helmets.
This Friday, when the Staples Wreckers open their season at home (7 p.m.) against Conard-West Hartford, will be special: Catch-a-Lift veterans will be at Paul Lane Field, to cheer them on.
Klezmer and traditional music will be led by Adam Feder, founder of New York’s Shul Band.
Beach stickers are not needed; tell the gate attendant you are with CHJ. Attendees should bring dinner, beverages and chairs. Dessert and soft drinks will be provided.
Jason Pike moved to Westport only in January. But he’s quickly developed an eye for special scenes — like today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature, in the middle of downtown.
And finally … 25 years ago today, over a million people lined the streets of London for Princess Diana’s funeral. Another 2.5 billion watched around the world, on television.
Comments Off on Roundup: Taber Onthank & Britt Baron, Prospect Gardens, Havdalah …
Chuck Greenlee, acting Y’s Men Gardening chair, writes:
“Wednesday afternoon at the very popular Westport Community Garden, our our Ys Men Gardening group noticed an unusual flying insect. JP Montillier got an eerily good photo.
“It was our newest American insect invasive scourge: the lanternfly.”
Nômade — the new restaurant replacing Tavern on Main — has had a few previews, before opening officially next week.
The previously dark interior has been reimagined, much more brightly. (The fireplace remains — but it’s now white). The patio is filled with tables, and a large bar. Wicker baskets hang from the ceiling.
The eclectic menu ranges from burgers and steaks to octopus, clams and ravioli.
The Nomade patio, overlooking Main Street. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Tickets are going fast for tonight’s (Friday) Levitt Pavilion show — the inaugural one, launching Hiss Golden Messenger and Aiofe O’Donovan’s “Turn Tail in the Milky Way” tour. (Next stops: Chautauqua, and the Philadelphia Folk Festival.)
And kids’ tickets (12 and under) are free.
Both bands are part of the Levitt’s “Stars on Tour” event.
The show starts at 7 p.m. tonight. Doors open at 6; the Walrus Alley food truck will be there. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Tonight’s “Stars on Tour” folk double-header follows the free one last night. Intergenerational greatness was on stage, as Clueless (with School of Rock stars Ethan Walmark, Anais Preller, Jake Greenwald; Zach Rogers, Francesco Perrouna and Witt Lindau teamed up with perennial favorite the Mill River Band.
Dancing to the Mill River Band last night at the Levitt Pavilion, under a super moon.
The international event includes master classes by finalists at the Westport Public Library, and performances at MoCA Westport.
Today’s (Friday) events include a lecture by educator and musician Clipper Erickson, plus more master classes at the Library, and performances at MoCA. The competition concludes with an awards ceremony at MoCA on Saturday, (August 13).
Click here for tickets for all events, both in-person and virtual, and more information.
Heida Hermanns finalist Artem Kuznetsov leads a master class at the Westport Library. (Photo/Feria Sewell)
Speaking of music: Me2/Orchestra is the only one in the world created by and for people living with mental illness. R
It was created by Ronald Braunstein. On a trajectory to becoming a leading conductor, he made his diagnosis of bipolar disorder public and was shunned by the classical music community.
He vowed to erase the mental health stigma. one concert at a time. The film “Orchestrating Change” follows Braunstein and several musicians for 2 years, capturing their setbacks and accomplishments.
The film ends in triumph for Braunstein, who thought he might never conduct again — and for the musicians and audience, whose perspective on mental illness is forever changed.
The Westport Library will show “Orchestrating Change” on September 13 (7 p.m.). Executive producers/directors Margie Friedman and Barbara Multer-Wellin, and several people featured in the film, will be on hand for a talkback after the screening. Click here for more details.
The Staples High School football program was inspired yesterday by a visit from a combat wounded Army veteran, Intelligence Sergeant Quincy Lopez.
He cheered on the athletes, as they did a Marine Corps “Murph workout.” It’s a fundraiser for both Westport football and Catch a Lift, the program that helps wounded vets.
Sgt. Lopez spoke of being part of something “bigger than yourself.” He added:
“You are as strong as your strongest link, and as weak as your weakest link. If you guide your decisions by what makes the team better, that in turn makes you better.
“We will soon approach another anniversary of 9/11. The darkest of hours and ultimate tragedy was followed by the greatest period of camaraderie and unity. Incredible gains can happen when everybody works together. Keep this in mind as you persevere for whatever you do and aim to achieve.”
Staples football players listen intently. (Photo courtesy of Adam Vengrow)
But that’s not the only good news on Hillspoint Road.
The home diagonally across the street — where construction was halted 2 years ago, and which has since been sheathed, half-finished, in blue, due to permit violations — may soon be completed.
As first reported by Westport Journal, last night the Zoning Board of Appeals approved a settlement with the property owners. They can resume work, including removing a chimney and cupola.
The new home will replace a decades-long succession of restaurants, including Positano and Cafe de la Plage. Before that, it was a grocery store.
Construction halted at 233 Hillspoint Road. (Photo/Dinkin Fotografix)
Meanwhile, around the corner, 44 Compo Mill Cove — the 1910 home standing closest to Old Mill Beach, and possibly the most photographed house in Westport — has sold.
It and its companion, a newer cottage at #42, were marketed together. The closing price of $5.29 million was the same as the asking price. The new owners are longtime Westporters and Staples High School graduates Lance and Ann Lonergan.
It hasn’t taken him long to feel at home. Or get involved with the community.
Last night, a large crowd turned out for the opening of his new retail concept store. The Collective West is at 940 Post Road East, opposite Earth Animal. It features furniture, accessories and art.
It carries brands the designer curates, including furniture, accessories and art.
Among the brands: Swoon Gallery, Josh Levkoff jewelry, Irene Lummertz, Snif, Franny’s Farmacy, Blossom + Stem, and Bungalow Decor.
Westport’s own Melissa Newman highlights tomorrow’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, July 14, 7 and 8:30 p.m., Joseph J. Clinton VFW Post 399, 465 Riverside Avenue).
Nationally, Melissa sings jingles for companies like AT&T and Chevrolet, Locally, she’s performed at the Blue Lemon, Tengda and Harvest in Westport.
She’s joined by Tony Lmbardozzi, Phil Bowler and Matt Moadel. There’s a $10 cover. Dinner is served from 6:30 p.m., by chef Derek Furino. Reservations are strongly suggested: jazzatthepost@gmail.com.
Young adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities are invited to a STAR dance party. It’s set for this Friday (July 15, 7 to 9 p.m., STAR headquarters, 182 Wolfpit Road, Norwalk).
Snacks and drinks are provided. There is a separate lounge area for parents and caregivers to meet and socialize, if they wish to remain while allowing the young adults to enjoy supervised independence on the dance floor.
The cost is $25 per person. There is complimentary entry for siblings and peer dance buddy volunteers.
Advance registration is required; click here. NOTE: Anyone ages 15-22 can volunteer as a peer buddy, with or without a sibling or past involvement with STAR.
Just before COVID struck, John Németh highlighted a Supper & Soul concert at the Westport Library. It was one of the best, in the long-running series.
The musician has had some setbacks since then. He writes:
“I have a new album. I recorded it before my jaw amputation. It’s called ‘Maybe The Last Time,’ cause I didn’t know then and I still don’t know now if I will ever sing or play again like I used to. I have to say the magic of this performance is beyond this world and maybe the greatest of my life.
“I am asking for a little help from. Please pre-order this CD or digital download. I am currently not working and have some staggering bills. The legendary blues guitarist and pop icon Elvin Bishop (‘Fooled Around And Fell In Love’) and famed producer Kid Andersen wanted to cut an album for me before my surgery, knowing it could be the last time we ever make music again.
“You will receive immediately upon ordering the first single ‘Maybe The Last Time.’ I will email or mail the full record to you by September 16. This is your order link.
“My surgery has been a success so far. I still do not have feeling in my jaw or lower lip. I hope and pray that someday I will get back to 110 percent. Thank you for enjoying my music and performances.” (Hat tip: Michael Wolfe)
Yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club luncheon meeting included an inspiring talk by Vince Santilli.
The CEO of Bridgeport-based Homes for the Brave told members and guests at Greens Farms Congregational Church about the organization’s success sheltering people in need — especially veterans — in Bridgeport and West Haven. HFTB also provides case management, vocational guidance and housing assistance for homeless vets. The non-profit received a Westport Rotary Club Community Grant this year.
Vince Santilli addresses the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
It’s a tight turn, coming out from the Compo Shopping Center back lot. You squeeze past the Verizon store, stop (maybe), and if you’re going to turn left into the front lot, you face plenty of traffic.
What you, I or anyone else — except this extremely entitled driver — don’t do is to make the sharp turn even sharper, then hog 3 spaces directly in front of one store.
We may think we’ve seen everything, parking-wise. Then this driver reminds us we haven’t.
(Photo/Molly Alger)
PS: Yes, that’s a handicap sticker hanging from the rear view mirror. With 3 empty spaces right in front, that does not excuse this parking job.
Longtime and much-loved Westport PAL coach Scott Turkel died yesterday. He was 64, and suffered from Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia.
A graduate of American University, Scott spent the early part of his career as an equity trader at Goldman Sachs and Lehman Bros. He then launched his own hedge fund, TCM Partners. Scott spent the latter part of his career working at Turkel Investments, where he made private investments and served as a management consultant to many businesses.
While he enjoyed helping investors and businesses achieve their goals, Scott most loved helping others and serving as a mentor to many in his community. Exceptionally philanthropic, he contributed generously to charities and causes, including the Samara Jan Turkel Clinical Center at Boston Children’s Hospital, created in memory of his late daughter.
He also made lasting impacts as a longtime coach for the Westport PAL football program. Scott kept in touch with his players through the years, and developed close relationships with many of them and their families.
Scott is survived by his sons Max, Bryan and Spencer, and his soulmate of nearly 8 years, Alyssa Rapko.
Scott’s service will be held tomorrow (Thursday, July 14, 11 a.m., Beth Israel Chabad of Norwalk 40 King Street). The family will sit shiva on Thursday (5 p.m.), Friday (4 to 6 p.m.), Saturday (7 to 9 p.m.) and Sunday (4 to 7 p.m.) at 27 White Birch Road, Weston.
Former Westporter Luigi Scaramuzzo died Sunday. He was 87.
Before immigrating from Italy to the United States, Luigi helped build Alps tunnels between Switzerland, France and Italy. Here, he worked for many years at Pepperidge Farm as a shipping clerk. He was an avid gardener and fisherman.
Survivors include his son Nicola of Norwalk, daughter Anna of Norwalk, and brother Pietro of Italy. Luigi was predeceased by his wife Teresa Scirocco-Scaramuzzo, brothers Giuseppe and Michele Scaramuzzo, and sister Giuseppina.
Tomorrow (Thursday, July 14, 10 a.m., Assumption Church) there is a Mass of Christian Burial. Entombment will follow in Willowbrook Cemetery. Condolences may be left online. Contributions in Luigi’s memory may to the National Alliance on Mental Illness,
Luigi Scaramuzzo
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John Prenderville Jr. writes:
“Locals are discussing the number of chicks in the osprey nest at Burying Hill Beach.
“These pictures say 2. I don’t think there are 3, but I thought there was only 1. So what do I know?!”
Here’s what I know: John’s photo is a fantastic addition to our daily “Westport … Naturally” series.
At Staples High School, Matt Makovsky was a talented athlete. He captained the football team, and ran track. Sports helped get him into an Ivy League school.
He had other talents too. He played piano, drums and violin. He sang in the choir.
Still, the Class of 2001 graduate says, he was not really in touch with his artistic side. He hung out with “the popular kids” — the jocks.
Matt Makovsky, in the 2001 Staples High School yearbook …
“I didn’t know how to reconcile both parts of my life,” he notes with regret. “I wish I had that perspective back then.”
Nearly 20 years after his last football game, Makovsky still counts his University of Pennsylvania teammates among his closest friends. Sports gave him his identity.
“There’s a reason companies recruit athletes,” he says. “They can take on a lot. They’ve learned character.”
He misses the locker room. Plus, he says, “I was in great shape.”
But now — with a degree from Columbia Business School, and years as a successful entrepreneur — Makovsky has changed careers.
He wants to be a pop star.
Makovsky has spent a lot of time thinking about his high school years. “Things were more separate than they should have been,” he says of the Staples culture.
Speaking of himself and his classmates — in every realm — he says, “We didn’t truly embrace what was special about what others did. I wish I had spent more time developing relationships in other areas besides sports.”
He pauses. “You only have so much wisdom at 16.”
Makovsky was as talented a musician as he was an athlete. Though he says he was the best violinist, he was not named concertmaster. Mariangela Lisanti practiced more.
She also won first place in both the Intel Science Talent Search an Siemens Competition. She’s done quite well, and is now a professor at Princeton. However, Makovsky says with amazement, “at Staples I got more recognition than she did.”
At Penn, he thought about joining an an elite a cappella group.
“They were sick!” he says with awe. “But I was singularly focused on football. We all ran together. We didn’t have time for other stuff.”
Now — after shifting gears — he does.
… and today.
A friend from the business world, Jared Feldman, had also been a star athlete in New Jersey. But he’d never let go of his artistic side. When he played some beats. Makovsky was intrigued.
He wrote some lyrics. The next morning, Feldman sent a “super-polished version” of Makovsky’s beat.
Feldman arranged some studio time. “As soon as I hard my voice, I was hooked,” Makovsky recalls.
He set up a home studio. He wrote songs.
Meanwhile, he continued working as CEO with Skylabs, an innovation firm.
“I’d get my teeth kicked in by a client,” he says. “Then I’d go home and write 2, 3 or 4 hours a night. It helped me in business. But I reached a breaking point.”
Calling himself “Mak,” he released one album.
His second — “Lucid Dream” — dropped a few weeks ago. The difference this time, he says, is producer Yonatan Watts. Makovsky formed a bond with the “operatic and hip hop singer/songwriter,” who has worked with Ariana Grande — a relationship as close as he has with his former football teammates.
Making music is “an intimate process,” Makovsky says. “Those moments when it gives you chills — you can’t buy that.”
“Lucid Dreams” already has 750,000 streams. Part of that is due to Makovsky’s marketing.
“I have resources a 17-year-old can’t have,” he says. “I’m applying my business and athletic mentality to being an artist. I want to win at this too.”
Makovsky thinks about his Staples days often.
“I wasn’t able to embrace all the parts of myself,” he says. “I didn’t have the maturity or understanding. Young people have evolved more, but at 16 you still don’t understand every part of you.”
“My culture in high school didn’t provide an environment to fully be myself. I don’t blame it. I wanted to be football captain more than concertmaster.
“But nothing beats being Justin Bieber or Ariana Grande. That’s a different stratosphere.”
Matt Makovsky, making music.
At Penn — where the Quakers set a 4-year Ivy League record for football success –Makovsky played in front of 40,000 fans. He recently did his first post-quarantine show, for an audience of 100.
But, he says, “the energy was great. There’s a connection between a performer and an audience. That kind of love is amazing. If you believe in what you do, that’s a game-changer.”
And now that he thinks about it, Makovsky realizes there are plenty of connections between sports and music.
Every locker room has a sound system. And, he says, “every athlete secretly wants to be a musician.”
Long ago, Makovsky’s mother told him, “Football will end. But music will always be part of your life.”
She was right.
So his message to today’s Staples students is the same one he’d give to his 16-year-old self: “Embrace who you are. Be open. Experiment. The more well-rounded you can be, the more full person you’ll become.”
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