Tag Archives: Up Next Teens

Roundup: Script In Hand, Home Demolitions …

Posted on December 31, 2025 | 1 comment

Two-time Tony Award winner Judith Ivey highlights the next Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand play reading.

“The Pancake Club” — a new comedy directed by Playhouse artistic director Mark Shanahan — is set for January 12 (7 p.m.).

Ivey plays Brenda, a waitress at a small-town diner where a group of senior men regularly meet. As Brenda struggles with the sudden death of her oldest friend, members squabble over the eulogy, the widow refuses to grieve, a mysterious stranger threatens the town’s equilibrium, and Brenda’s only daughter teeters on the brink of a meltdown. Brenda wonders: Does anybody ever truly grow up?

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Judith Ivey

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The Historic District Commission meets January 13 (7 p.m., Zoom).

The agenda includes a vote on the partial demolition, renovation and addition to the main home, and demolition of a detached garage, with a new garage constructed, at 296 Main Street.

The HDC will also vote on whether to oppose demolition permits, and require the full 180-day delay, for these properties:

  • 19 Turkey Hill Road North
  • 11 Dogwood Lane
  • 10 Mary jane Lane
  • 10 Twin Falls Lane
  • 5 Over Rock Lane
  • 17 Adams Farm Road
  • 9 Berkeley Road.

They will vote too on whether to rescind adoption of the motion to oppose the issuance of a demolition permit for 11 Beachside Commons, which was adopted December 9.

11 Beachside Commons

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Up | Next Teens — the county-wide teen volunteer organization founded by Addison Moore, when the recently elected Representative Town Meeting member was a Staples High School student (just a few years ago) — partnered with Big Y to host a holiday food drive.

They collected a few hundred pounds of food, pantry staples, and essential items like diapers, laundry detergent, dish soap and personal care products, for Homes with Hope’s Gillespie Center. 

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Peter “PJ” Boehm Jr. died Saturday at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Bridgeport.

He graduated in May from the University of Miami Herbert Business School, with a double major in finance and economics. He was a 2021 graduate of Fairfield Ludlowe High School.

His obituary describes PJ as “fun-loving, generous, deeply kind and endlessly curious. With confidence and authenticity, he treated everyone with warmth and humility. His boundless energy infected his wide circle of friends.”

He loved boating with his father Peter, traveling with his mother Mary Kate, and his yellow lab Bella.

PJ is also survived by grandmother, Marilyn Klemish; uncles William Klemish Jr. (Lori), John Klemish (partner Dani Fernandez) and Michael Klemish (Sue), and aunts Christine Walker (John), JoAnnBoehm, and Jacquelyn Steedle. 

Friends may call Friday (January 2, 4 to 7 p.m., Harding Funeral Home). A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday (January 3, 11 a.m.).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Connecticut Humane Society.

PJ Boehm

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows Booler’s Point, in the fog.

I’ve lived in Westport my whole life, and never heard of “Booler’s Point.”

According to photographer Michael Tomashefsky — who found it on Google Maps — that’s the spit of land jutting into the Saugatuck River, between Grace Salmon Park and the Levitt Pavilion.

Here’s what it looks like, in Monday’s fog. And if anyone knows who Booler was, click “Comments” below.

(Photo/Michael Tomashefsky)

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And finally … Diana Ross rings in 2026 tonight, at Times Square. Other performers include Ciara, LE SSERAFIM, Little Big Town and Maren Morris.

Beginning in 1929 though, and continuing for half a century, Guy Lombardo & His Royal Canadians’ “Auld Lang Syne” was the way millions of Americans — live, and first listening to radio, then watching on TV — celebrated New Year’s Eve.

The intro to Lombardo’s 1947 Decca Records version is still played in Times Square, immediately following the ball drop.

So — for auld lang syne’s (time gone by) sake — we present:

(Happy New Year! Whatever your plans, you’ve still got a few hours to donate to “06880” — and take a tax deduction for 2025 too. Please click here. And then celebrate!)

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Posted in Obituaries, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Car Crashes, Cannabis, Cuseos …

Posted on December 10, 2022 | 3 comments

Just before 1 a.m. today, a car went off the road, into the Saugatuck River.

The Westport Fire Department responded with 3 engines and a rescue truck. Firefighters wearing cold water rescue suits removed the lone occupant, who was trapped in the vehicle.

Westport EMS transported the patient to the hospital, with unknown injuries.

Westport firefighters in action early this morning. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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Speaking of accidents: Another of those baffling midday, clear weather crashes  took place yesterday, at the Hillandale Road/Morningside Drive South intersection.

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

With the way people drive these days, though — and the so-much-to-do pressure of the holidays — perhaps it’s not that surprising.

Just keep this image in mind the next time you want to gain 2 seconds at a stop sign.

Or think that your errand is more important than everyone else’s.

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A recent “06880” story on what’s for sale — illegally — in Westport smoke shops and convenience stores noted that recreational marijuana sales have not yet begun in Connecticut.

Yesterday, state officials announced that adult-use marijuana sales will begin January 10.

Nine existing medical marijuana dispensaries have received approval for sales. The closest stores are Stamford and New Haven.

More sites will be approved in coming months. None are in Westport. The Planning & Zoning Commission has — at least for now — banned non-medical marijuana sales here.

Click here for a full report on recreational cannabis stores statewide.

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A Teen Business Holiday Shop fills the Westport Library’s Trefz Forum today (Saturday, December 10, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.).

An array of creative, high-quality products — jewelry, services and more — are on sale. All were created by local teenage entrepreneurs.

The event is sponsored by Up | Next Teens. The student-founded and run organization teaches teens the principles of entrepreneurism, with a commitment to social activism.

A portion of the proceeds will help fun the group’s efforts to help alleviate food insecurity.

PS: There’s live music, baked goods — and gift wrapping too!

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Registration is open for several Earthplace kids’ programs. They include:

  • Junior Naturalists (Grades 6-12)
  • Teen Volunteer Club (Grades 6-12)
  • Vacation Day Camp (Ages 3-12, January 16)
  • Holiday Break Camp (Ages 3-12. February 20-24, 27; April 7, 10-14)
  • Summer Camp.

Click here for details — and other programs too.

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Staples High School Class of 2010 graduate Luke Hammerman is the digital audience manager for the National Military Family Organization. The non-profit supports and enhances military families through advocacy and programming.

Luke wants Westporters to know about the group’s holiday drive — and remind them that Tuesday is the anniversary of the National Guard’s founding (in 1636!).

He also found this link to an inspirational “06880” story about some Westport military families in years past.

During World War II, 8 of the 12 Cuseo brothers enlisted in the military. Bottom row (from left): Charles, Robert, James, George. Middle: Angelo, father James, mother Lucia, Albert. Top : Nicholas, Frank, Anthony, William, Joseph, Michael. Not pictured: Mildred.

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Westport will be well represented at “Layers Revealed” — the new exhibit at Norwalk Art Space.

Photographer Jerri Graham and artist Melissa Newman are in the show, which explores “all of life’s intricacies and complexities.”

“Slowly, the layers of our lives are revealed and once they are, we fully come through,” Graham says. Through “each frame of the camera,” she aims to highlight “a fraction of a second of a life that will be lived for a time unknown. Within these fractionated layers, we find our lives and ourselves.”

“Layers Revealed” encourages viewers to explore the many cycles and layers of humanity, nature, beauty, creation and decay.

At the opening reception Thursday (December 15,, 6 to 8 p.m., 455 West Avenue, Norwalk), Graham will take portrait photos at a pop-up space.

She’ll also host 3 portrait photo sessions (December 18, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m.; January 8 (10 a.m. to noon) and January 15 (noon to 2:30 p.m.). Book sessions at 203-252-2840; donations are accepted. Students ages 13 to 18 who are interested in helping Graham (and learning about lighting, composition and more) can apply here.

On January 15 (3 p.m.), Graham will give a talk. On January 28 (11 a.m.), Newman — who is also a vocalist — will join guitarist Tony
Lombardozzi for a jazz brunch performance at The Norwalk Art Space.

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“In With the Old” — a Discovery+ series — features old-home enthusiasts transforming abandoned structures.

In the current season 3, Staples graduates Brian and Megan Austin Philpott work their magic on a “little Weston cabin.”

Also shown: former Westport Planning & Zoning Commission member Al Gratrix. Spoiler alert: It’s his grandchildren’s log cabin. (Hat tip: Chip Stephens)

Brian and Megan Austin Philpott, at work.

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The Dartmouth College Brovertones serenaded Staples High’s  Choralaires yesterday, with tunes ranging from Hozier to The Beach Boys.

Luke Rosenberg’s singers were especially excited to hear SHS 2020 graduate Sam Laskin. They asked plenty of questions too, about college and a cappella life.

Sam Laskin (front row, 3rd from left), the Brovertones, and the Staples Choralaires.

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There’s a new event on the Westport benefit calendar.

On March 19, Sunset Wine Party hosts a wine tasting at the Inn at Longshore. All net proceeds go to Berni & Murcer, a non-profit supporting area children with cancer.

The event includes grazing tables, music, and private VIP rooms

Discount tickets are available December 15 through January 1. Click here for more information.

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Last night’s full moon was spectacular. Thanks to all who sent photos.

Two of the best were these:

Moon over Compo Beach … (Photo/Jim Hood)

… and Sherwood Island State Park. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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Just before the moon rose, Tessie and Stinky Pete posed for this “Westport … Naturally” photo at Compo:

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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And finally … another little known — but hugely important — music pioneer has died.

Jim Stewart, a white man who who with his sister founded Stax Records — the hugely successful R&B/soul label — died Monday in Memphis. He was 92.

A country and rockabilly fan who “had scarcely seen a Black person till I was grown,” his work with artists like Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Wilson Pickett and Carla Thomas helped create the soundtrack of the ’60s and early ’70s.

His house band — Booker T. & the M.G.s — included Black and white musicians, an enormous step for the very segregated city of Memphis.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Cars in the river, marijuana sales, military families … “06880” covers it all. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

 

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Children, Environment, History, Real estate

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Roundup: Chief Foti, Mark Blake, Food Inequality …

Posted on September 22, 2022 | 7 comments

The other day, Police Chief Foti Koskinas took CNN’s Alisyn Camerota for a spin.

The footage wound up yesterday on the network’s “Champions for Change” segment.

Foti was cited for his innovative community involvement, including helping the department handle demonstrations calmly and respectfully. He spoke candidly about the state of American policing, noting that he would take a knee with George Floyd protesters in solidarity, prayer and against police brutality — but not against police or the flag.

TEAM Westport chair Harold Bailey praised Foti’s ability to listen. “There was some change in his position” during discussions after the Michael Brown incident, Bailey said — “and change in ours as well.”

The piece will be rebroadcast this Sunday (September 25, 8 p.m.), as part of a CNN special hour-long “Champions of Change.”

Click here to see the segment. Spoiler alert: I’m on camera for a few quick seconds. And I provide the voice-over intro, conclusion and other thoughts.

It was an honor to be included.

Screenshot from CNN: Alisyn Camerota and Chief Foti Koskinas.

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Autumn arrives tonight at 9:04.

This morning, Westport said goodbye to summer with a quick thunderstorm. Andrew Colabella captured this dramatic lightning strike over Cockenoe Island:

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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The Westport Police Department and Emergency Medical Services mourn the death of Mark Blake. The popular and generous EMS crew chief died Tuesday.

He was hired in May of 1990, and had a long, rewarding career serving Westport. He was a representative for the Southwest EMS Council for over 10 years, and was most recently its president.

Blake was a certified child safety seat instructor, and organized many car safety seat clinics throughout Fairfield County.

Blake also volunteered with Weston’s fire department and emergency medical services, for over 39 years. He was the department’s vice president, and earned the rank of lieutenant.

Westport Police and EMS say: “Those who knew Crew Chief Blake quickly realized that his passion was to help any way he could. Whether organizing a safety clinic, treating a sick patient or helping at the scene of a fire in Weston, he  was there.  His dedication and passion will most certainly be missed.

Deputy Chief Sam Arciola oversees Westport EMS. He says: “Mark was an incredibly dedicated public servant as well as a widely respected EMT. He never hesitated to put the needs of others above his own.”

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker adds, “I was saddened to hear of the passing of Crew Chief Blake. On behalf of the town, I want to extend my condolences to his friends and family as well as express how appreciative the town is for all his years helping our community.”

Mark Blake

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One more police item: Local departments were recognized recently, in a ceremony at Beth Israel Chabad in Norwalk.

Westport was represented by Police Chief Foti Koskinas, Weston by Police Chief Ed Henion. The event included plaques of appreciation, music and brunch.

Among the officials at the Beth Israel Chabad ceremony: Rabbi Yehoshua Hecht (far left), Weston Police Chief Ed Henion (4th from left), Westport Police Chief Foti Koskinas (5th from left) and Westport 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (6th from left).

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The state of Connecticut will help fund replacement sidewalks near Greens Farms Elementary School, and renovations at the Weston Police Department.

The sidewalk project includes $250,000 from the state, and $100,000 in town funds. The police building includes $500,000 in state funds, and $264,926 from Weston.

State grants come from the Small Town Economic Assistance Program.

A sidewalk replacement project is coming soon to Greens Farms Elementary School.

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Up Next Teens is a Staples High School student-founded and run organization. They’ve just launched a new project: #FeedFairfield County.

The goal is to raise $25,000. That would supply meals for nearly 10,000 hungry residents.

They asked Wakeman Town Farm for help. The result is a great partnership.

On October 6 (6 p.m.), WTF hosts an intimate chef’s dinner. Marcia Selden caters; Greens Farms Spirits supplies the wine and bubbly — and UpNext Teens will serve.

They’ll also speak to guests about their goals and projects. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Massimo Tabacco — the former owner of Bar Lupa, and other restaurants — has a new venture.

He’s partnered with lifelong Westporter Matthew Balk to open Il Pellicano, at 1460 Post Road in Fairfield.

The Italian restaurant features classic and contemporary dishes, including small plates, steaks, fish and piadina (an unleavened thin bread with delicious fillings).

There’s an extensive cocktail menu too, with experienced mixologists.

Il Pellicano opens tomorrow (Friday, September 23). A roof patio has just been approved, and will be ready soon. Click here for more information.

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The Westport Library’s Verso Studios are leading-edge.

So they’re a perfect spot for a new education initiative. The Fairfield County-based LiveGirl non-profit will co-host a 9-week Leadership Lab for high school girls there. Sessions start October 3, and run each Monday through December 14.

Founded in 2014, LiveGirl’s mission is to “prepare the next generation of diverse, brave female leaders with the skills, community, and connections so that all girls may thrive and make a positive impact on the world. LiveGirl’s vision is to contribute to a world free from both gender and racial inequality.”

Utilizing state-of-the-art Verso Studios media facilities, the LiveGirl Leadership Lab will focus on creative arts empowerment, multimedia expression and training. Participants will develop storytelling skills through creative channels like video, music and podcast production.

The program is free. Spots are limited, and pre-registration is required.

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The next Amy Simon Fine Art show is “Slow Motions,” with Liz Barber, Christopher Jeffries, Carolanna Parlato and Paul Shakespear.

It runs September 24 through November 5, at 123 Post Road East.

“Summer Fold 2” — mixed media on canvas (Liz Barber)

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Longtime Westporter and former Planning & Zoning Commission member Michael Stashower died yesterday. He was 96 years old.

The Cleveland native attended Hobart College as part of the US Navy’s V-12 Officer Training program, then received BA degree and MBA degrees from Cornell University.

After retiring from a long and successful career in corporate finance, Michael continued used his expertise as an overseas volunteer with the International Executive Service Corps, and to help with New York City’s 2012 Olympic bid.

In more than 50 years in Westport, he was actively involved in the community. He was elected twice to the town’s Planning & Zoning Commission. He was a past president of the UJA/Federation of Westport-Wilton-Norwalk, treasurer of Temple Israel, and served on the board of directors of the Council of Jewish Federations and the Jewish Home for the Elderly.

He loved sailing, tennis, and playing clarinet with the Westport Community Band.

Michael is survived by Gloria, his wife of nearly 72 years; their Susan (Paul Milbauer), Debby Missal (Michael) and Jon (Allison), and grandsons Jordan, Scott and Matthew.

A service is set for tomorrow (Friday, September 23, 10 a.m., Temple Israel). Shiva will be observed tomorrow from 1 to 5 p.m. at 321 Lansdowne.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests consideration of a donation to Temple Israel of Westport.

Michael Stashower

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Staples High School Class of 2010 graduate Keith Gelman moved back to Westport with his wife, in June.

The other evening he saw this barred owl, in his front yard. Classmate Stuart Schmerzler snapped this stunning “Westport … Naturally” photo. Follow @schmerzlertakesphotos on Instagram, for more great shots.

(Photo/Stuart Schmerzler)

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And finally … in honor of the great “Westport … Naturally” photo above, I had to include this song, by this band.

Get it?

(“Who” is going to support “06880”? Please click here to help!)

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Posted in Arts, Local business, Obituaries, Police, religion, Restaurants, Weather

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