They teach goal-setting. Perseverance. Dealing with disappointment. Learning to win with class, and lose without being a jerk.
Working as a team. Working with different personalities. Pushing your body. Having fun. The thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat.
Youth sports are also so bad, on so many levels.
There are parental pressures, and unrealistic expectations. Coaches’ pressures, with their own unrealistic expectations. The high cost of “pay to play.” Specialization. Burnout.
Misplaced values. Time. Traveling each weekend to play “showcase” tournaments (which really aren’t), against teams from the next town.
The other night, “06880” teamed up with young adult author Tommy Greenwald, to present a special panel.
“Fair Play and Foul Behavior: Issues Facing Youth Sports in Today’s World” focused on many of the issues noted above.
It was an expert group. They hit it out of the park.
Panelists included:
Tommy Greenwald: former Staples High School soccer state champion captain; father of 3 athletes; author of several books highlight the pressures and joys of youth sports
VJ Sarullo, Staples athletic director
Dave Smith, father of 4 athletes who writes frequently on youth sports topics
Caleb Smith, former Staples quarterback, basketball and All-American lacrosse star, who played football and club lacrosse this year at the University of Connecticut
Heather Talbott, PAL girls lacrosse co-president and basketball organizer; former lacrosse player at Lehigh University
Mark Pressman, longtime football and softball official.
If you missed the panel — perhaps you were picking up your kids from practice, or coaching a team yourself — we’ve got you covered.
(Panels like this one are one more service of “06880.” If you enjoy the many ways we cover — and educate — our community, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Attention, youth sports parents: The “06880” panel on that very topical topic is tomorrow night (Wednesday, 7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria).
We’ve partnered with Tommy Greenwald — the famed youth adult sports fiction writer, former Staples athlete (and father of 3 athletes) — to present “Fair Play and Foul Behavior: Issues Facing Youth Sports in Today’s World.”
We’ll talk about the achievement/pressure balance, referee abuse, sport specialization, cost, the “academy” syndrome, myths and realities of college recruiting, and more.
I’ll moderate the event, and include time for audience questions. Panelists are:
VJ Sarullo, Staples athletic director
Dave Smith, father of 4 athletes who writes frequently on youth sports topics
Caleb Smith, former Staples quarterback and lacrosse star, now playing football at the University of Connecticut
Heather Talbott, PAL girls lacrosse co-president and basketball organizer; former lacrosse player at Lehigh University
Mark Pressman, longtime football and softball official
Sunday marked the end of Mrs. London’s Westport run.
The popular bakery closed at 7 p.m. It will reopen soon under new ownership: Maman, the New York-based café and bakery chain.
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The Democratic Town Committee inadvertently omitted the name of one candidate, in a press release announcing its Nominating Committee selections for November’s elections.
Bre Injeski has been selected as one of 3 Planning & Zoning Commission nominees. She is a current P&Z alternate, and a municpal and administrative law attorney.
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One of the main tenets of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Westport and Weston is social justice.
Responding to recent developments on immigrants and their communities, the church’s Immigration and Refugee Committee is hosting an “Accompaniment & Volunteer Information Session.”
Attendees will learn how to support refugee and immigrant communities in Fairfield County.
It’s ladybug season … and the first-ever appearance of this insect in our “Westport … Naturally” feature.
(Photo/Cohl Katz)
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And finally … happy 75th birthday to Stevie Wonder!
We could have picked dozens of great songs. Here are just 3:
(It would be “wonder”-ful if every reader supported “06880.” Or just half! Or a quarter, even. Please click here to show some love for this hyper-local blog. Thank you!)
After several years and 2 attempts, the Fairfield County Hunt Club will build a new racquets facility.
On Monday, the Planning & Zoning Commission voted to approve the 22,000-square foot indoor tennis and squash court building.
The original plan — for outdoor paddleball courts — met strong opposition from neighbors.
This time, residents on nearby Hunt Club Lane opposed the size of the structure, and possible noise from HVAC machinery.
The P&Z vote was 6-1. John Bolton opposed.
Also on Monday, the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) unanimously approved the Board of Education’s $150.4 million operating budget.
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Last night, in what has become an annual ritual, the RTM voted 28-2 to restore Wheels2U’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
Westport Transit District directors Peter Gold and Karina Betfarhad thanked the 400 residents who wrote letters in support of the service, which links riders with the 2 train stations, and their homes, jobs and other spots in town.
To raise awareness about safety, the Westport Police Department is sponsoring a community forum.
The May 13 event (6:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) will cover rules and regulations (for riders and motorists), street awareness, and tips and resources for all ages. A Q-and-A session will follow.
The evening will feature law enforcement officials and safety director Charles Foster of SCBC Safe Rides.
Class 3 e-bike.
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Speaking of safety: a car fire broke out during the Westport Rotary Club’s meeting yesterday, at Green’s Farms Church.
While the service organization was handing out $285,000 in grants at its annual awards luncheon, to 46 Fairfield County non-profits, Westport firefighters doused the blaze. There were no injuries, and no damage to the building.
Meanwhile, all the funds were handed out successfully, and received gratefully. The recipients provide services for victims of homelessness, food insecurity, substance abuse, domestic violence, mental health and other challenges. Of the nearly 4 dozen awardees, 1/3 ar based in Westport.
The grants come from the Rotary Club’s annaul LobsterFest. Mark your calendar: This year’s is September 20.
A small part of the large Rotary Club crowd. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)
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If you’ve ever sat on the beach, watched sailboat races and wondered what it’s like to be on the water: This could be your summer.
You can join a boat — for free.
Cedar Point Yacht Club is looking for crews, for various fleets:
Atlantic (Saturdays, Sundays)
Flying Scot, Lightning, Thistle (Saturdays)
Vanguard 15 (Thursday, Fridays [women], Sundays
Cruising Class (Wednesdays, Saturdays). Click here for opportunities. Captains will welcome you aboard.
Cedar Point racing. (Photo/Richard Gordon)
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Wakeman Town Farm thinks of everything.
Including “Sensory Safari: Farm Fun for Neurodiverse Kids.”
The gentle, sensory-friendly animal adventure is designed for children ages 3-8.
The 45-minute session includes the chance to interact with goats, alpacas, sheep, rabbits and chickens.
The relaxed pace includes plenty of time to observe, touch (as comfortable), and engage with the animals in a calm, supportive environment.
The class is run by Jewell Ailes, an educator who works in an intensive resource room one-on-one with students with ASD and other special needs.
Wednesday classes are May 21 and 28, and June 4 and 11 (4:15 to 5 p.m.). For more information and to register, click here.
Fun at Wakeman Town Farm.
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Last month, Cory Booker delivered the longest recorded speech in US Senate history. For 25 hours and 5 minutes, he protested President Trump, and his administration.
He’ll speak for considerably less time next month, in Westport.
But the New Jersey Democrat will be here, raising funds for his re-election campaign. The event is June 6, 5:30 to 7 p.m. For details, email lizmilwe@gmail.com.
Henry Patrick Raleigh was a noted Westport illustrator. He drew for magazines like the Saturday Evening Post and Colliers.
The Society of Illustrators calls him a “’star’ during the Golden Age of American Illustration (1900–1930). His graceful, fluid drawings, usually of crowded social scenes, were done in line, wash or colored inks and seemed to flow from his fingertips….
“Home to Raleigh was what is now the famous artist’s colony of Westport, Connectict. He, George Wright, Frederick Dorr Steele and Rose O’Neill helped pioneer that area’s popularity.”
F. Scott Fitzgerald — another noted Westporter — called his work “the best illustrations I’ve ever seen.” Decades later, in 1991, art historian Benjamin Eisenstat said, “Raleigh was the highest paid illustrator in America, and perhaps the world.”
The home he once lived in — 167A Compo Road South — is now on the market.
Built in 1913, the 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, 2,103-square foot house on 2 acres is listed for $1.895 million.
Let’s hope it appeals to someone who appreciates the history behind it.
Plenty of Westporters celebrated Cinco de Mayo on Monday, at several of our town’s Mexican restaurants.
But no one had a better time than Andrew Colabella. The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) member, and man about town, celebrated in style at Viva Zapata.
(Photo/Matthew Mandell)
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From the Revolutionary Era to today, artists have explored our nation’s evolving understanding of itself through depictions of Old Glory.
On May 29 (6 p.m., MoCA CT), Dr. Robin Jaffee Frank’s “O Say Can You See: Artists Reimagine the Flag” gallery talk will describe how artists incorporate the stars and stripes into their work, to “achieve aesthetic ends, critique social and political inequities, celebrate freedom and democracy, support and mourn our troops, and express despair and hope.”
The “06880” panel on youth sports is 1 week from today.
We’ve partnered with Tommy Greenwald — the famed youth adult sports fiction writer, former Staples athlete (and father of 3 athletes) — to present “Fair Play and Foul Behavior: Issues Facing Youth Sports in Today’s World.”
It’s May 14 (7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria).
Topics include the achievement/pressure balance, referee abuse, sport specialization, cost, the “academy” syndrome, myths and realities of college recruiting, and more.
I’ll moderate the event, and include time for audience questions. Panelists are:
VJ Sarullo, Staples athletic director
Dave Smith, father of 4 athletes who writes frequently on youth sports topics
Caleb Smith, former Staples quarterback and lacrosse star, now playing football at the University of Connecticut
Heather Talbott, PAL girls lacrosse co-president and basketball organizer; former lacrosse player at Lehigh University
Mark Pressman, longtime football and softball official
And finally … on this date in 1824, Beehoven’s Ninth Symphony — perhaps his most famous — had its world premiere in Vienna.
(Beethoven had patrons. “06880” is not a musical genius — just a hyper-local blog. But we depend on donors too. Please click here to support our work. Meanwhile, enjoy the music!)
If your child is a pretty good athlete — or you think they are — odds are they (and you) are part of the “youth sports industrial complex.”
The phrase sounds satirical.
It isn’t.
As any parent with a young travel/elite player knows, the days of kids of varying ages meeting in the backyard, choosing teams, then playing on their own until dinnertime (all while making and enforcing their own rules), has gone the way of wooden bats and $20 soccer shoes.
Blast from the past.
Youth sports is a big business. And in a town like Westport — where personal hitting coaches, shooting coaches and fitness trainers are a dime a dozen (though exponentially more expensive) — there is an expectation that all that time and money will yield a substantial ROI.
Yet — besides rueful comments on the sidelines about yet another trip to yet another “showcase” tournament at yet another faraway place to play yet another game against a team from Wilton — how much do we really talk about this?
Next month, Westport youth sports parents will get a chance to do just that.
“06880” has partnered with Tommy Greenwald to present a special panel. “Fair Play and Foul Behavior: Issues Facing Youth Sports in Today’s World” is set for May 14 (7 p.m., Staples High School cafeteria).
Topics will include the achievement/pressure balance, referee abuse, sport specialization, cost, the “academy” syndrome, myths and realities of college recruiting, and more.
Training, competing — and competing for spots — begins at an early age.
Greenwald is a young adult author, specializing in youth sports. His latest book, “The Right Call” — a companion novel to his previous “Game Changer” —explores the growing pressures young athletes face, and the lengths some parents go to make sure their kid comes out on top. Greenwald will give away some copies of his book at the event.
The 1979 Staples High School state champion co-captain’s 3 sons were also Staples athletes and captains.
Panelists include:
VJ Sarullo, Staples athletic director
Dave Smith, father of 4 athletes who writes frequently on youth sports topics
Caleb Smith, former Staples quarterback and lacrosse star, now playing football at the University of Connecticut
Heather Talbott, PAL girls lacrosse co-president and basketball organizer; former lacrosse player at Lehigh University
Mark Pressman, longtime football and softball official
And of course Tommy Greenwald himself.
Moderator Dan Woog was the Staples boys soccer head coach for 19 years, and a youth coach for nearly 30 years before that. He is a co-founder of the Westport Soccer Association, and writes nationally on youth sports topics.
The event will include time for audience participation.
As the proposed Hamlet at Saugatuck development wends its way through a thicket of town regulatory bodies, 2 petitions are circulating in town.
One is against the proposal. The other is for it.
The anti-Hamlet petition comes from the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck. It asks the Planning & Zoning Commission to deny the application, “with recommendations for a minimum of a 40% reduction in scope and scale.”
The pro-Hamlet petition calls The Hamlet “a unique opportunity to enhance Westport’s waterfront with vibrant public spaces, restaurants, and locally owned businesses — all while expanding access to the Saugatuck River.”
Speaking of new construction: The new Long Lots Elementary School plans have drawn criticism from many quarters, from the destruction of the Community Gardens to the possibility of artificial turf on the proposed athletic fields.
It would seem that one element — unveiled last week — would not cause any complaints. That’s the entrance, which would include a new brook.
But some Westporters are concerned about the number of trees to be sacrificed.
And then there’s this, shared with “06880” by another resident: “A number of students with special needs, including autistic children, have a propensity to be drawn to water.
“Not to say that the children won’t be monitored all the time while in school. But if there was ever an incident, or a child ran faster than staff while outside at the playground, the water strikes me as a potentially dangerous addition.”
News that will surprise probably no one: Westport’s Original Pancake House has closed.
The Main Street spot opened in January 2023, in the space previously occupied by Acqua restaurant. (And before that, Boca.)
The chain — whose first restaurant dates back to 1953, in Portland, Oregon — never gained a foothold, despite a small, devoted following. It was open only 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (3 p.m. on weekends), with an interesting but somewhat limited menu. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)
As a former state champion Staples High School soccer captain — and the father of 3 athletes — Tommy Greenwald know sports.
As the author of a number of award-winning children’s and young adult books, Tommy knows his audience.
The 1979 Staples High School graduate’s newest title is published today.
“The Right Call” — a companion novel to his previous “Game Changer” —explores the growing pressures in youth sports, and the lengths some parents go to make sure their kid comes out on top.
Told through Tommy’s trademark combination of transcripts, articles, texts and e-mails, “The Right Call” is a fast-paced story for middle school readers. They can relate to its treatment of split-second decisions, facing consequences, and the courage it takes to forgive.
Speaking of kids: The Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation hosts a free egg hunt this Saturday (April 19, 2 p.m., Long Lots Elementary School).
Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation is hosting a free and festive Egg Hunt for the Westport community on Saturday.
It includes a dedicated, inclusive experience for children with special needs. The sensory-friendly hunt (1 p.m., Long Lots) features a peaceful, welcoming space for egg hunting at each child’s own pace; a quiet touch-a-truck event with vehicles from the Westport Fire and Police Departments (no loud noises!), a chance to meet and take photos with the Bunny, and friendly helps to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.
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The Westport Library Big Spring Book Sale is set for May 16-19.
As always there is something for everyone, from toddlers through adults, with thousands of gently used books in over 50 categories of non-fiction and fiction, along with DVDs, CDs, vinyl, ephemera, and framed art. For a link to specials, hours of the sale and more, click here.
The sale begins on Friday, May 16 with early access (8:45 a.m. to noon) for special ticket holders. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
To volunteer, email volunteers@westportbooksales.org.
This year’s event — the 18th annual — is May 3 (9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; sensory-friendly from 9 to 9:30 a.m.; Imperial Avenue parking lot).
Of course, kids of all ages (including adults) are invited to get up close, climb on, and take photos with vehicles of all shapes and sizes. That means fire trucks, police cars, ambulances, cranes, dump trucks, buses, big rigs … you get the idea.
Also on tap: magicians, crafts, face painting, food trucks, and live music.
Admission is $35 per family. Click here to purchase, and more details.
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Monday’s Y’s Women meeting left attendees hungry for more.
They included Milford’s hot buttered lobster on split bun rolls, “steamed” cheeseburgers in Meriden, homemade ice cream at the University of Connecticut Dairy Barn, and the 5 best pizza places in the country (all in New Haven).
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Westport favorite — and native — Melissa Newman returns for another headline event at this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (April 17, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.; music cover $20, $15 for veterans and students).
The vocalist will be joined by Tony Lombardozzi on guitar, Phil Bowler on bass and Bobby Leonard on drums. Click here for reservations.
Melissa Newman
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The latest Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand reading took place last night. “Paris” tackled issues of race, commerce, community and invisibility in a small town workplace.
The next play in the series — “Still” — is May 5 (7 p.m.). The Playhouse website says: “When former lovers Helen and Mark reunite after years apart, they quickly realize that the person each of them once knew — and the love they shared — might be more complicated than they remembered.”
How sweet does today’s “Westport … Naturally” rose smell?!
(Photo/Ellen Wentworth)
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And finally … sometimes our musical selections are out of left field. Today’s is perhaps the most predictable ever:
(Happy Tax Day! If you’ve got a nice refund coming, please consider tossing a few dollars over to “06880.” We need to pay our taxes — and other expenses — too! Please click here. We thank you!)
If you think this harvest moon is particularly stirring: You’re not alone.
Saugatuck Church invites the community to “celebrate the harvest and abundance, while drumming to the full moon’s energy and its strong pull of the tide.”
The Harvest Moon Drum Circle is tomorrow (Wednesday, September 18, 7 to 9 p.m., Compo Beach cannons).
Attendees are encouraged to bring a drum or percussion instrument. Tell the gate attendant you are with the church. Rain location: Hoskins Hall, at Saugatuck Church.
Band Central — the CLASP house group, specializing in classic tunes — headlines the non-profit’s “Music Through the Decades” benefit.
The October 18 show (Fairfield Theatre Company) will raise funds to support CLASP’s clients, with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
A 6:30 p.m. pre-party includes light bites from Blue + Berries and Little Pub. The main event kicks off at 7:30.
Guests are encouraged to dress in the fashion of their favorite decade.
Tickets are $45 in person at the FTC office, $54 online or by phone (203-319-1404).
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Wakeman Town Farm is a place for everyone. And that means everybody.
The environmental center has just announced a farmer program for neuro-diverse children.
Designed for youngsters of all abilities, the farm-based program offers a hands-on, sensory-rich experience that encourages exploration, creativity and learning, in a natural setting.
Wakeman Town Farm provides a safe, welcoming environment where kids can connect with animals, engage in gardening activities, and explore the outdoors at their own pace.
The staff is trained to support neuro-diverse learners
There are 2 age groups: 3-10, and 11 and up. Activities like feeding animals, planting seeds and observing nature are outdoors, and tailored to accommodate various sensory, social and communication styles.
The program promotes social interaction, emotional regulation and physical activity, while nurturing a love for nature.
There are 4 Saturday morning sessions, from October 5 through 26. The fee is $180.
Each attendee needs an adult buddy (18+) — a parent, paraprofessional, babysitter, grandparent, or someone else who knows the child well and can support them as an instructor leads the program.
Wakeman Town Farm animal ambassador Judy Panzer and special education professional Leann Duggan helped develop the curriculum and activities for the program.
As CEO of New York Road Runners, Westporter Rob Simmelkjaer is closely associated with the New York Marathon.
But on September 29, he’ll be in Germany, running the Berlin Marathon.
Across the ocean though, his heart will be here. He’s running fo NYRR Team for Kids, the premier charity of New York Road Runners and the New York Marathon.
Since its inception in 2002, NYRR Team for Kids has raised more than $110 million, in a variety of races. Rob’s personal goal is $10,000.
The Funds serve nearly 200,000 youngsters locally and nationally, through NYRR’s free youth running programs.
For more information, and to donate to Rob’s team, click here.
Rob Simmelkjaer
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Many Westporters shop at The Pantry, on the Post Road in Fairfield.
There was a fire there yesterday. All food was thrown out or given away, to churches and Operation Hope.
Owners hope to reopen soon. (Hat tip: Mary Condon)
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The Girl-Power Squash program — an introductory program for kids — got off to a rousing start on Sunday.
All 20 spots were taken, at Intensity Squash.
The program continues for the next 11 Sundays.
A similar one is planned for winter.
Westport elementary school girls, with former Staples High School boys squash coach Eddie O’Rourke (top left) and, in the front row (7th-9th from left), Staples players Rhiya Anand, Rebecca Schachter and Sophie Smith.
Longtime Westport resident Tommy Greenwald and his son Charlie’s “Beginning Reader” series for children ages 5-8 began with a hit.
The first book — “The Rescues Finding Home,” about 2 shelter dogs awaiting adoption was named a 2023 School Library Journal Best Book of the Year.
The second in the series — “The Rescues Best Day Ever” — is published today. It’s about 3 new adventures with adopted pet friends Moose, Bear and Tiger. Click here for details.
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Longtime Westport resident Joyce Netherton died peacefully last week at Norwalk Hospital, of natural causes. She was 86.
She graduated as salutatorian of Henry Clay High School in Lexington, Kentucky. At the University of Kentucky she continued to play violin and was in Alpha Xi Delta sorority. She earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in only 2 1/2 years.
She met Elliott, her husband of 58 years, there. After living in Louisville they moved to Westport in 1973, with their 3 children.
Joyce was an avid tennis player. When her children were older, she became a computer programmer analyst with AC Neilsen and Dun & Bradstreet, rising quickly to management positions.
After retirement she served in numerous local leadership roles, for the Westport Woman’s Club, League of Women Voters, Medical Serve Corps and Staples Tuition Grants. Treasurer was her favorite.
An enthusiastic reader, she was a devoted supporter of the Westport Library.
Joyce was known for her sewing skills. She created clothes and household items for her family, and even made her own wedding gown.
She and Elliott enjoyed trips in their motor home, visiting nearly all 50 states. After retiring, they traveled with friends around the world.
Joyce is survived by daughter Cynthia Lipe (Joe) of Point Blank, Texas; son Hank (Wendy) of Woodland Park, Colorado; grandchildren Kelly (Richard) Deleon, Tracy (Dustin) Bowling, Jonathan Lipe, Miranda (Jerek) Bickford, Mallory (Austin) Nuss, Henry (Candis) Netherton and Wyatt Netherton; and great-grandchildren Lillian and Mason Sarvis, McKenzie, Victoria and Aubrey Deleon, Eleanor, Abigail and Caroline Bowling, Brynley and Emmit Nuss, Conall and Roderick Bickford.
She is also survived by her brother David Beals, and nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Elliott, daughter and son-in-law Paige and Tom Totilo, and brothers Ralph and Philip Beals.
Services will be held outside at the Memorial Garden of Christ & Holy Trinity Church on Friday, September 27 (11 a.m.). Her ashes will be interred in the Memorial Garden during the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Westport Library or Westport Woman’s Club.
Joyce Netherton
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Johanna Keyser Rossi offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” image, taken at the Senior Center, and explains:
“With summer’s end, and fewer and fewer flowers, the bees are looking to stock up for winter. They’re finding the flowers with the most nectar and pollen.”
Yesterday’s capacity crowd at The Inn at Longshore spanned all ages. Many were longtime Westporters; some moved here a year or two ago.
The cuisine included Italian, seafood, Southern, dumplings, steak — and plenty of desserts. A variety of vendors poured drinks.
There were enough auction items to satisfy every wish (and price point). The Bar Car Band played all night long.
Gabriele’s Steakhouse (foreground) was one of many serving stations at last night’s Taste of Westport.
The 18th annual Taste of Westport was — as always — one of the best fundraisers of the year.
CLASP Homes — the non-profit that provides care, support and services to adults with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities — was the beneficiary of all that generosity.
If you’ve never been to the Taste of Westport: Don’t miss it next year.
If you were there last night: Well, you know you don’t need to eat anything more for a while.
PS: Thanks to all the food and drink providers: Grumpy Dumpling, Pastaficio, Jose Cuevo, Little Pub, La Plage, Magic Pie Co., Mrs. London’s Bakery, Nordic Fish, Nômade, Rive Bistro, Rizzuto’s, Romanacci Pizza Bar, Sono 1420, Tarantino, Walrus Alley, Zucca Gastrobar, Artisan, Aspetuck Brew Lab, Black Bear Wines & Spirits, Baldanza Schoolhouse, Bridgewater Chocolate, Boathouse, Chopin Vodka, Cold Fusion, Don Memo, Dunville’s, Ferrer Miranda, Freixenet, Gabriele’s Italian Steakhouse, Greer Southern Table, Coramino Tequila and Gruel Brittania.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (center) is flanked by former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe, and his wife Mary Ellen. (Photos/Dan Woog)
Speaking of summer: Yesterday’s Roundup noted that the ice cream stand at The Porch at Christie’s will be open this Memorial Day weekend, starting at noon on Saturday.
They’re still trying to figure out the best hours. If you’ve got suggestions, email lindsay@lindsayshandmade.com.
Opening soon!
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Members of VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, Sons of August Matthias American Legion Post 63 and the American Legion Auxiliary, joined together this week to unveil their Memorial Day parade banner.
All 3 groups will march together on Monday.
Then they got to work on their float. The theme is a secret — but they encourage all Westporters to come to the parade, and see it.
Membership in the American Legion or women’s Auxiliary is just $20, with proof of a family member who actively served in the military.
Members memorialize their loved one, carry on his or her story, and remember the ultimate sacrifice of over 2.5 million Americans, who helped us be the free nation we are today. For more information, email Andrew Colabella: acolabellartm4@gmail.com.
Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between May 15 and 22.
A 47-year-old Westport woman was arrested for disorderly conduct, violation of a protective order, assault and threatening, following a domestic violence incident.
A 36-year-old Leonia, New Jersey man was arrested for identity theft and larceny, after a complaint by a Westporter that a check for $25,000 had been taken from a residential mailbox, altered and cashed.
A 52-year-old Norwalk man was arrested for failure to appear.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5 citations
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 5
Following too closely: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
“When Merrily We Roll Along” opened on Broadway 43 years ago, it ran for just 16 performances.
A revival opened last year, and became a huge hit.
What happened?
“Tend Your Dream: An Oral History of ‘Merrily We Roll Along'” explores the long, strange route from theatrical flop to beloved classic.
The video was conceived by Westporter Tommy Greenwald, a longtime veteran of the Broadway marketing and ad scene. Greenwald — a 1979 Staples High School graduate — also served as creative director.
The video (below) includes original cast member Jim Walton, plus critics Ben Brantley and Frank Rich, actors Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff and others.
Besides Greenwald’s project, “Merrily” has other Westport connections.
And Staples Players has produced the show twice, including 2002. That year, Groff’s part — composer Franklin Shepard — was played by Justin Paul.
After graduating that spring, Paul went on to an actual — and noted — composing career of his own. With Benj Pasek, he’s written (among others) “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Greatest Showman” and “La La Land.”
Justin Paul (right) in Staples Players’ “Merrily We Roll Along.” (Photo/Kerry Long)
And finally … on this date in 1829 in Vienna, Cyrill Demian received a patent for the accordion.
(Summer is near — and as always, “06880” will tell you everything you need to know. We rely on our readers to help do it. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Comments Off on Roundup: Parks & Rec Summer Kickoff, CLASP Taste, VFW & Legion …
After input from neighbors, developers of 1 Glendinning Place have reduced the scope of plans for the property off Weston Road (mostly recently, offices of Bridgewater Associates).
The previous one had 14 units. The new plan includes 10 free-standing units, of 3,000 square feet each.
Two will house special needs affordable residents. There are 3 units in each. One of the 6 will be reserved for a live-in supervisor.
Developer David Waldman notes that this is similar to supportive housing at 136 Riverside Avenue.
The change at 1 Glendinning Place will allow Westport to obtain more 8-30g (affordable housing) moratorium points.
The next step: application to, and hearing with, the Planning & Zoning Commission.
Artists’ rendering shows 10 proposed homes (green) for 1 Glendinning Place. Click on or hover over to enlarge.
Our Town Crier and Westport Marketplace have joined forces.
Now there’s one place for over 800 local listings — restaurants, retail, realtors, services (business, personal and home), and more — along with statewide information for categories like “Pizza Trail” and Valentine’s Day (places to eat and stay; things to do).
The Westport Progress Report on Floodplain Management is complete.
It is prepared annually to enable Westport residents to receive a 10% reduction in their flood insurance. Flood Insurance is offered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to communities that participate in the Community Rating System. Click here to read the plan.
Municipalities that participate in the CRS are ranked from 1 (highest) to 10. Classifications warrant what flood insurance rate reductions are offered. Westport’s ranking is 8.
Annual reports are required identifying how Westport is implementing the Western Connecticut Council of Governments Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan. Click here for the Westport report.
Local flooding is becoming more prevalent. This was the scene in a back yard earlier this month. (Photo/Meghan Norris)
“I recently enrolled in USPS Informed Delivery, a service that tells you every day what mail is being delivered to you.
“I was mildly interested until last Friday, when I was informed that I was receiving 6pieces of mail.
“The mailbox was empty. Since that day, none of the indicated pieces of mail have shown up. (The service shows you pictures of the mail pieces, so I know they haven’t arrived.)
“In addition, I had ordered 2 boxes of COVID test kits. On Friday I was informed by USPS in great detail the progress of the delivery of these kits, culminating in notice that the packages were delivered to my mailbox. I have never seen these packages either.
“I have reported the non-deliveries, but have had no response from USPS. I wonder if any others have had similar incidents.”
So, “06880” readers: Do you have USPS Informed Delivery? Have you experienced non-delivery? What are your options if you report them, but never hear back? Please click “Comments” to help Bob.
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This week’s League of Women Voters of Westport annual “Pie & Politics” event at Pizza Lyfe featured Westport’s 3 state legislators: Senator Ceci Maher, and Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson.
They updated attendees on issues expected to be debated this year in Hartford, including funding for voter education about early voting, support for polling staff, and the ballot initiative to amend the state constitution to offer no-excuse absentee voting. All 3 spoke passionately about protecting and expanding voters’ rights, and the importance of taking steps to improve voter turnout.
The discussion also included climate change, whether Connecticut should adopt an electric vehicle mandate to go into effect in 2035, and other initiatives to mitigate climate change and train a workforce for clean energy jobs.
The legislators spoke to the importance of looking at solar, geothermal, heat pumps, reskilling, and addressing housing shortages to attract clean energy companies and their employees.
Other topics included mental health policies, transportation, housing and education.
From left: State legislators Dominique Johnson, Jonathan Steinberg and Ceci Maher at Pizza Lyfe.
The Westport Rotary Club heard an animated talk by Tommy Greenwald at this week’s lunch meeting.
Of course, anyone who knows Greenwald — the 1978 Staples High School soccer state champion/father of 3 sports-playing sons/Broadway marketer/young adult author knows that he lives his life in an animated way.
Greenwald writes often about the hyper-competitiveness and pressure of youth sports — for children and their parents. He told the Rotarians that his goal is to bring fun back into that stressful world, and show youngsters that the path to a well-balanced life does not totally revolve around the success of a team, or individual achievement on the field or court.
Tommy Greenwald (Photo/Dave Matlow)
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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between January 17 and 24.
A woman was arrested after she found a $550 MoneyGram on the ground, endorsed it using her real name and address, and deposited it in her bank account. She was afforded the opportunity to reimburse the victim but refused, and was charged with larceny.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5 citations
Traveling too fast for conditions: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Operating a motor vehicle while texting: 2
Distracted driving: 2
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 2
Failure to renew registration: 2
Reckless driving: 1
Speeding: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Failure to drive right: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
Failure to reinstate license within 60 days: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without proper load cover: 1
Operating a motor vehicle in violation of license class: 1
But the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport is the site of a “barn dance” this Sunday (January 28, after the service at approximately 11:30 a.m., until around 3 p.m.).
Billy Fisher will call the dance, with live music from Wry Bred. The event includes Cake Carousel and pizza.
Everyone is invited: all ages, all levels of experience. A recommendation donation of $5 per person, $15 per family covers entertainment costs.
MoCA’s 2nd Artisan Market (February 11, noon to 4 p.m.) features handcrafted items: bespoke jewelry, textiles, fine art and gourmet foods.
It’s a chance to purchase unique gifts before Valentine’s Day, while supporting local creators.
Staples musical sensation Ethan Walmark will entertain.
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Also at MoCA: Jazz musician Anthony Hervey, in concert February 27.
He has impressed audiences worldwide as a sideman for Christian McBride, Jon Baptiste, Michael Bublé and Wynton Marsalis (who called him a “beautiful trumpet player of first magnitude.”
He’ll be joined by saxophonist Markus Howell, pianist Isaiah J. Thompson, bassist Russell Hall and drummer Miguel Russell. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Anthony Hervey
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Patricia (“Patty”) Palmer died Sunday. She was 79.
The Bridgeport native graduated from St. Vincent’s School of Radiology in 1964. She worked at Norwalk Hospital for over 40 years, first as a registered X-ray technician and then as a manager.
Patty lived in Westport for over 50 years, and raised 2 daughters here. She was involved in their Parent Teacher Association, and led their Brownie and Girl Scout troops.
She enjoyed reading at Compo and Burying Hill beaches, taking a wide range of local classes, and was a regular walker at Sherwood Island State Park.
Her favorite activities were dancing and travel. She met her husband David on the dance floor. They spent over 30 years traveling and sightseeing, especially in Cape Cod and the Caribbean.
Patty is survived by her husband of 35 years; daughters Kelley Swift and Megan Tibball (Jeff), all of Fairfield, and grandchildren Jordan and Brendan Tibball, and Jackson Swift.
Her family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the nurses and caregivers at Bridgeport Hospital who took good care of her, and made her final time peaceful and comfortable.
Visiting hours are Monday (January 29, 4 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home). A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Luke Church on Tuesday (January 30, 11 a.m.).
Patty Palmer
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All winter long, dogs are allowed on Compo Beach — and in the water.
These goldens enjoy the opportunity, oblivious they are the subjects of today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.
And finally … Melanie — the one-named, much-loved singer/guitarist/ songwriter of the late ’60s and early ’70s — died Thursday. She was 76. Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)
(Real estate news? Police reports? Obituaries? Whatever you’re looking for, it’s here at “06880.” This is your hyper-local blog — and it’s reader-supported. Please click here to help. Thank you!)
The largest literary festival in Connecticut returns soon to the Westport Library.
And Saturday, October 21 — the biggest day of the 3-day StoryFest — features more than 40 authors, spanning nearly every genre imaginable. They include big names like Clay McLeod Chapman, Angie Kim, Gabino Iglesias, Caroline Kepnes and Wendy Walker.
A host of panel discussions begin at 10 a.m. That’s in addition to picture book readings for children and teens, author conversations, and a special live taping of Chapman’s Fearmongers podcast (with best-seller Stephen Graham Jones and Josh Malerman, author of Netflix’s “Birdbox”).
Saturday closes with a staged reading of “Gentle Hacksaw,” the new play from Eric LaRocca.
Now in its sixth year, StoryFest is the Library’s annual celebration of reading, writing, ideas and community. This year’s event runs from Friday, October 20, through Sunday, October 22, and includes a keynote conversation with renowned author Neil Gaiman, a writers’ workshop, “Pinkalicious” author Victoria Kann, and virtuoso guitarist Gary Lucas.
Below is a closer look at the Saturday lineup for Saturday, October 21. Click here for full descriptions; click here to register for a free Saturday day pass; click here to buy tickets for the staged reading of “Gentle Hacksaw.”
Book readings for kids
10-10:30 a.m.: Tommy Greenwald and his son Charlie read from “The Rescues” (grades K-4)
10:30-11 a.m.: Stephen G. Bowling reads from the Mom’s Choice Award-winning picture book “Grandma’s House is Haunted”
11-11:30 a.m.: Sivan Hong and Sally J. Pia read from the “Super Fun Day” book series and “The Fire, The Water, and Maudie McGinn”
Panel Discussions and Conversations
10-11 a.m.: “Peek-a-Boo, I See You: Inclusivity in Children’s Literature”
11 am to noon: “Putting It Together: Ellen Datlow Presents…”
Noon-1 p.m.: “Killer Women: Writing Crime from a Female Point of View”
1-2 p.m.: “On Leaving and Returning: Writing the Body Home”
2-3 p,m.: “Community Into View: Writing Race, Culture and Identity”
3-4 p.m.: “Scream with Me: Heartache, Humor, and Horror”
4-5 pm: The Incredibly True Adventures of… Twists and Turns on the Writer’s Path”
5-6 pm: “On the Edge of Our Seats: Writing Suspense and Anticipation”
Deep dives with authors and artists, moderated by Kerstin Rao
12-12:30 p.m.: Rowan MacColl and Connor McCann on “Comic Art”
1-1:30 p.m.: Eric LaRocca and Owen Egerton on “Writing for the Stage”
2-2:30 p.m.: Gabino Iglesias and Ellen Datlow on “Editing Anthologies”
3:30-4 p.m.: Lizzie Stark and Cassadra Khaw on “Game Writing”
Live podcast
5-6 p.m.: Clay McLeod Chapman records his “Fearmongers” podcast live, with Josh Malerman and Stephen Graham Jones.
Staged reading
7 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show: “Gentle Hacksaw”: a startling new drama of religion, identity and violence.
Click here for more information on the entire 3 days of StoryFest.
(“06880” is Westport’s hyper-local blog. Please support our work by contributing here. Thank you!)
The Westport Downtown Association reminds shoppers that Connecticut’s Sales Tax-Free week began yesterday. It runs through this Saturday (August 26).
Retail purchases of most clothing and footwear priced under $100 are exempt from Connecticut sales and use tax. The exemption applies to each eligible item under $100.f
Many retailers add their own discounts.
For more details on Sales Tax-Free Week, including a list of items that are exempt or taxable, click here.
Footwear (and clothing) is exempt from sales taxes this week — for items under $100. (Photo/Alison Lee)
Westport firefighters responded to a structure fire on Compo Road South just before midnight yesterday.
All occupants were safely out of the house. Damage was limited to the exterior.
Mutual aid from Norwalk and Fairfield provided station coverage. Westport Police and Emergency Medical Service assisted.
The last unit cleared at 1:36 a.m. As fire companies were leaving, they were dispatched to I-95 northbound between Exits 17 and 18 for a motor vehicle crash involving a car and tractor-trailer, with injuries.
Less than 10 minutes after that call, additional companies responded to a second motor vehicle crash with injuries in the same vicinity. Westport EMS assisted at both incidents.
Compo Road South fire. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)
A sign in its window on the Post Road store says: “We inform our kind customers that Il Pastificio will reopen on Sunday 20 [yesterday], temporarily as a pasta shop and not as a restaurant, until a date to be determined.”
We’re not sure if that means they’ll go back at some point to also serving as a restaurant — or if they’ll close at some point permanently.
“06880” will pass along details when we have them. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)
Tommy Greenwald is a man of many talents. The 1979 Staples High School graduate is a noted advertising executive, playwright and young adult author.
He’s also known as the father of Charlie Greenwald — no slouch in the acting/comedy/writing departments either. (And himself a Staples grad, class of 2012.)
Father and son have now collaborated on a new book. They co-wrote “The Rescues: Finding Home,” a children’s book about rescue animals.
(“It’s appropriate for everyone who’s alive,” notes Tommy, in true marketing mode.)
They’ll be appearing at the Westport Library’s StoryFest in October. If you can’t wait that long, check them out at Brooklyn’s Books are Magic (September 9, noon to 1 p.m.), the Rye Book Festival (September 23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) or the Chappaqua Book Festival (September 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Or click here to pre-order. The publication date is September 5.
Charlie and Tommy Greenwald, and their book.
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Frank Mastrone brought his very popular American Songbook show to the Levitt Pavilion last night.
Joining him were 2 other Broadway stars, both of whom performed — as he did — in “Phantom of the Opera.”
And both are Westporters: Staples High School graduate and classically trained opera singer Terry Eldh, and Dodie Pettit, aka one-half of Aztec Two-Step 2.0.
The evening was sponsored by Roger Leifer, as part of his “Sunday Series.” He threw a pre- and post-concert party for his tenants — a rare but welcome gesture by a commercial real estate landlord.
Frank Mastrone (center), with (from left) Dodie Pettit and Terry Eldh. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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