Tag Archives: Verso Studios

Roundup: Democratic Caucus, Venezuela, U Thant …

Posted on January 3, 2026 | 6 comments

The first step toward becoming a Democratic candidate — or helping to influence the party locally — begins January 13 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall).

That’s the biennial Democratic Town Committee Caucus — an election to the DTC. They’re the group that endorses candidates for local elections, and helps select statewide nominees.

All registered Democrats are eligible. Any voter who has changed registration from another party must have done so at least 90 days prior to January 13. Click here for the Westport Democratic Town Committee bylaws.

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Speaking of politics (sort of): The capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has had a collateral effect on Westporters vacationing in the Caribean.

The closure of air space in the region caused airlines to cancel hundreds of flights.

One local family was scheduled to leave today from Trinidad & Tobago — 7 miles off the Venezuelan coast, but 350 miles from Caracas.

Another is in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands — hundreds of miles from Venezuela.

Airlines are swamped with calls from stranded travelers. They’re responding with variations of “We have no idea…”

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Verso Studios — the media arm of the Westport Library — has hosted headliners like Patti Smith and the Wallflowers. They’ve produced a vinyl album — the first ever by any library, anywhere.

What haven’t they done? A Battle of the Bands.

Until now.

Next Saturday (January 10, 7 p.m.), 4 high-energy local bands take the Trefz Forum stage. The crowd will decide the winner. Prizes are $500 for first place, $250 for second.

The college and teen groups are the Breakers, Clockwork, Caravan and MOSS.

Tickets are $10 for students, $20 general admission. Click here to purchase, and for more information. 

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Many Westporters know and love Abby LaBanca, longtime Spotted Horse bartender.

They may not know that her father Jim is terminally ill with cancer. A strong and selfless man, he continues to give back — including as chair of the Sunshine Kids Cancer Foundation, dedicating time and energy to helping children and families facing the same battle he now wages.

Along with the emotional weight of their impending loss, Jim’s family faces unexpected financial hardship.

A GoFundMe page has been organized to help the LaBancas focus on spending their final days together, without added stress. Click here to donate, and for more information. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

Jim LaBanca

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Thant Myint-U grew up in Riverdale, New York — when his grandfather, U Thant, was the third secretary-general of the United Nations — and then in Bangkok, when his father was with the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific.

But his mother Aye-Aye Thant — U Thant’s daughter — was a longtime Westporter.

Her son has just published a book about his grandfather.

According to PassBlue — an independent, women-led nonprofit news company that covers the US-UN relationship, women’s issues, human rights, peacekeeping and other global matters — “Peacemaker: U Thant and the Forgotten Quest for a Just World” “reveals rich layers of history during the 1960s, taking readers back to key moments in his maternal grandfather’s role in world history, from the Congo crisis to the Cuban missile crisis, from Vietnam to the Six-Day War in the Mideast.

“The author, who worked for a while in the UN and has produced several history books, has now written a book drawing on his family’s legacy. He says it was an accident that he stumbled upon archival material about his grandfather and the UN, which led him to work on this biography.”

Aye Aye and her husband lived in Westport from 2000 to 2022 (except for 2011 through 2014, when they renovated her former home in Yongon, Myanmar, as the U Thant House Museum. It is still in operation; her son is the chairman.

Aye Aye moved from Westport to Boston in 2022, to be closer to her daugthers.

Click here to read more, including a Q-and-A with Aye Aye Thant’s son. (NOTE: “06880” rules limit comments to the relevant topic at hand.  All comments on this item should pertain to the Thant family. General posts about the UN today will be deleted.)

U Thant

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Dana Kuyper snapped a nice “Westport … Naturally” image of the view from Longshore, across Gray’s Creek to Owenoke.

Well, it was a nice view — except for the large trash bin that someone dumped sometime, somewhere, and which managed to get stuck in the winter mud.

(Photo/Dana Kuyper)

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And finally … in honor of the Gray’s Creek photo above, lets hear from this musician:

(Where else but “06880” will you find U Thant and Muddy Waters together? That’s the way we roll. If you appreciate this blog — where Westport meets the world — please click here to support us. Thanks!)

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Roundup: West Parish Work, Telly Awards, Heat Warning …

Posted on July 15, 2025 | 4 comments

Hillandale Road residents were stunned earlier this year, when the state Department of Transportation clear-cut large swaths of land on the Sherwood Island Connector, in preparation for a new maintenance facility behind Walgreens.

More work will be done, this time on West Parish Road. But now, town operations director Thomas Kiely has given neighbors some warning.

He writes: “As part of a broader infrastructure improvement initiative, the DOT will be removing trees along a portion of the roadway over the coming weeks. The work will take place from the corner of Post Road East, to the area across from 7 West Parish Road.

“In place of the removed trees, the DOT will construct a 10-foot land berm. This will be landscaped with new vegetation, to enhance the visual appeal of the area and create a natural buffer for nearby properties.

“Additionally, the project will eliminate the old salt shed and adjacent facility entrance on West Parish Road, further improving privacy and separation for adjacent homes.

“We understand that changes to the neighborhood landscape may raise questions, and we want to ensure residents are aware. Please be assured that the work is being planned with consideration for safety, improved visibility, and long-term aesthetics.

“I will continue to work with the DOT and advocate on behalf of the Westport community. Please know that the plantings will be towards the end of the project after final grading is complete, to avoid damage.” (Hat tip: Jonathan Steinberg)

The DOT maintenance facility, as seen from West Parish Road.

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Westport Library’s Verso Studios have hosted Emmy, Grammy and Tony Award winners.

Now they’ve got an honor of their own.

Actually, 4. “Crew Call” — the Verson program that gives community members the chance to be trained in live, hands-on video production — recently earned 3 silver and 1 bronze Telly Awards.

Created in 1979 to honor local, regional and cable television commercials, with non-broadcast video and television programming soon, Tellys have evolved with the rise of digital video to include branded content, documentary, social media, immersive and more.

The contest draws more than 13,000 entries annually, from 6 continents and all 50 states.

Verso’s silver medals were awarded for “Read to Grow: 25 Years of Building Literacy from Birth”; “Andrew Wilk Presents, The Westport Library Medical Series Part III: Cardiac Valve Disease”; and “The Night a Library Got Stoned,” which celebrated Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards receiving the Governor’s Award of Excellence at The Westport Library.

The bronze was for “BOOKED for the evening with Billie Jean King.”

Crew Call began as a 6-week training course, led by Emmy-winning Verso Studios video producer David Bibbey. Community members are trained to record and edit programming and events produced on the Library stage, and occasionally on location.

Participants currently range in age from 14 to 80. To learn more about Crew Call, fill out this online form.

Verso Studios video producer David Bibbey (far right), assistant producer Fred Lavins (center, 3rd from left), and Crew Call members, before a recent program.

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Speaking of entertainment: Perhaps the Westport Country Playhouse tempted fate last night by screening the film “Singin’ in the Rain,”

Rain pelted down, and there was a power blip at the 7 p.m. showtime. But the tech crew got it up and running, just a few minutes late.

The Playhouse’s celebration of timeless films continues with “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” (August 6, 6 p.m.), “The Sting” (August 18, 7 p.m.), and Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho”(October 10, 7 p.m.).

Tickets are $20 each; $10 each for 3. For tickets and more information, click here.

Last night at the Playhouse — reminiscent of Gene Kelly’s iconic 1952 scene.

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A combination of heat, poor air quality and the potential for flash floods this week prompted Governor Lamont to activate Connecticut’s “extreme hot weather protocol.”

It begins at noon today, and runs through at least 8 p.m. Friday.

Westport has activated its cooling centers and will monitor conditions closely, says Fire Chief and emergency management director Nick Marsan.

Cooling centers include:

Need help or transportation? Call 211, or visit www.211ct.org.

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Hearts in Harmony is a foundation created by Mark and Kira Greenfield. The mission is to find better treatments (and a cure) for Long QT Syndrome, a heart rhythm disorder that affects their daughter Shea.

But the non-profit’s impact extends far beyond researchers and patients.

Last week, Hearts in Harmony partnered with Coastal Bridge Advisors, to offer CPR and AED (automated external defibrillator) training to residents.

Over 6o people — many of them parents with young children — learned from EMS professionals, at Coastal Bridge’s Wilton Road headquarters. The event included special infant and toddler training.

Click here to learn more about Hearts in Harmony.

Hearts in Harmony CPR and AED training.

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Make-Modern’s grand opening is tomorrow (Wednesday, 3 to 6 p.m.).

The open house at their 180 Post Road East location includes free crafting stations for adults and kids, plus giveaways.

Make-Modern is a crafting and sewing studio “for people  with a passion for design, and a deep respect for the art of making … rhe opposite of (a) glitter-and-glue setup. Every class, workshop, party and camp is built around thoughtful curriculums, age-appropriate skill building, and elevated materials sourced from around the world.”

Click here to learn more about Make-Modern.

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An alert — and grossed-out — “06880” reader writes:

“I was returning an item at Lululemon today, and experienced a poorly mannered dog owner.

“Three cashiers were handling customers. I was in the middle. The lady to my left had a cocker spaniel on a leash. I just had a pedicure, and tried to avoid him stepping on my toes. The owner saw that, and pulled him to her front.

“It was busy and noisy. When the dog owner left I smelled something foul, and looked down to see several pools of vomit.

“Another woman almost stepped into it before I called for her to stop. I told the manager. It took 3 young women to clean the floor. They put up a cone so no one would fall.

“There was no way the owner didn’t realize her dog threw up. I say that as a dog owner myself. While accidents can occur, to not report it was negligent.”

For sure. And that brings up a fairly new trend: Dog owners who bring their pets everywhere.

I’ve seen them in stores, supermarkets and restaurants. What’s up with that?

I understand owners’ desires to bring their dogs with them. But do they really belong everywhere?

Am I being overly sensitive? I want to hear all sides of this. Click “Comments” below.

Sure, you take your pooch paddleboarding. But into a store? (Photo/Matt Murray)

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Construction on Greens Farms Academy’s 29,000-square foot multipurpose athletics/wellness center is moving along.

Here’s a view of the newest building on the handsome private school campus:

In addition to modern amenities, it is located closer to the athletic fields than the current gym. It was built in 1964.

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Every Thursday, Jazz at the Post welcomes noted musicians from around the globe.

But there are plenty of homegrown talents too.

At the top of any list is Chris Coogan. The Weston native is a mucha-admired composer, performer, teacher, choir director and producer, rooted in both jazz and gospel.

He headlines this week’s shows (July 17, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7; VFW Post 399; music charge $20; $15 for veterans and students).

He’ll be joined by John Mobilio, his bassist for decades. Also sitting in: drummer Scott Latzky, who has worked with Tito Puente, Lionel Hampton and Bob Dorough. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Nothing is more natural than a bee collecting pollen.

And nothing fits better for our “Westport … Naturally” feature than this “busy bee” shot, of Tracy Porosoff’s sunflower:

(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)

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And finally … on this date in 2006, Twitter was launched. In 2023, it was rebranded as X.

(Sure, “06880” rocks in the treetops all day long. But we depend on you birds — our loyal readers — for support, all day and night. You can make a tax-deductible contribution by clicking here. Thanks!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Library, Local business, Sports, Weather, Westport Country Playhouse

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What Does Bill Shakos Know? Just Listen.

Posted on March 26, 2025 | Comments Off on What Does Bill Shakos Know? Just Listen.

What does Bill Shakos know?

A lot.

And the Westporter is sharing what he (and others) know, in a deep, insightful new podcast.

Called “What Do I Know,” the Westport Library Verso Studios Community Partnerships project is an outgrowth of Shakos’ personal journey.

Turning 50 — while emerging from the pandemic — caused him to reassess his life. He was looking for “a sense of purpose.”

Shakos set out to explore his community, and the people in it. He was especially interested in those with different life experiences, struggles and aspirations.

He wanted to get to know them. And really listen.

“What Do I Know” is his series of interviews with people in and around Westport, getting to the core of their (and our) humanness.

Shakos hopes his podcasts will “inspire empathy, perspective and inspiration by taking listeners outside their social circles,” Shakos said.

“What Do I Know” debuted Monday, with 3 20-minute episodes.

The first is Shakos’ reflection on turning 50, and navigating life after the pandemic. He and a friend of 30 years, Westonite Jesse Shafer, explore “the new normal.”

One made good choices, Shakos says. The other “went down a rabbit hole of escapism.”

The second episode is a conversation with Richard Anderson, a Westporter whose family experienced racism here. He and Shakos talk about race, privilege and friendship in suburbia.

The third “What Do I Know?” is an interview with David Rosenwaks. A relatively new Westporter, he won a seat on the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) after noticing minimal representation of parents. Shakos and he discuss the power and importance of local government.

More episodes will drop every other week.

The show is available on the Verso Studios community partnership podcast page; through podcast distributors like Spotify, Apple and Amazon, and on the What Do I Know? website.

What Do I Know? also has channels on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. A YouTube channel features supplemental content.

Bill Shakos (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)

The son of Greek immigrants, Shakos married a woman who grew up in Chile. They spent 10 years in London, before settling in Westport.

“My father taught me the importance of making people feel valued and respecting their perspectives,” Shakos says. “The diversity of my family and living abroad represents, for me, a need to explore the world and people in it.

“The theme of this podcast is self-exploration. What I hope comes through is that I genuinely care about the person I’m talking to. Not their job, not what they have, but instead the experiences that brought them to this point in their life.”

(“06880” is your media connection to all other local media. Please click here, to help us help you stay connected. Thank you!)

 

 

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Roundup: Longshore Shed, LA Fires, Board Of Ed …

Posted on January 10, 2025 | 10 comments

An aerial photo posted yesterday, showing the proposed site for a new Parks & Recreation Department maintenance shed at Longshore, missed the mark.

The actual possible location — on Old Cuttings Lane, near the golf course’s 12th green, not far from the exit road — is shown below.

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Nearly every Westporter knows someone in Los Angeles.

Friends, relatives, colleagues … it’s almost impossible to live here, and not have some ties there.

Staples High School 2016 graduate Eliza Donovan lives in LA.

She sent this yesterday …

(Photo/Eliza Donovan)

… and reports: “I like sitting outside for lunch, but ash is falling all the way over here, at the USC-Keck Medical Campus.”

She was not evacuated. However, she was surrounded by 3 fires.

If you have any LA fire stories to tell — or would like to request help for someone there — please email 06880blog@gmail.com.

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The next Board of Education Policy Committee meeting is Wednesday (January 15, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium).

The agenda includes the second discussion of a possible new civility policy; the second reading of possible revisions to the existing policy for evaluation, termination and non-renewal of coaches; and the first reading of possible revisions to existing polices about student discipline, suicide prevention and intervention, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and non-discrimination.


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Local theatergoers remember Colin Konstanty from the Staples High School stage.

On Monday (January 13, 7 p.m.), the former Staples Player cast member and 2022 graduate is on stage again.

This time it’s at the Westport Country Playhouse, in a Script in Hand play reading.

“How the World Began” probes the conflict between divine creation and evolution, and its effect on a small Kansas town torn apart by a tornado.

After Staples, Konstanty — now a student at NYU Tisch School of the Arts — has appeared off-Broadway, and on Disney+.

Tickets are $30. To purchase, and for more information, click here.

Colin Konstanty

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Early yesterday morning, the Westport Fire Department responded to a call about a deer stuck in the Saugatuck River ice, near the Post Road.

Rescue Company members in cold water suits entered the river, and removed the deer. It soon walked under its own power into the woods.

Fire officials note: “Residents should never attempt to rescue an animal or person from icy waters themselves. Entering the water without proper training or equipment can result in serious injury or loss of life. Instead, call 911 or the Fire Department to ensure a safe and professional rescue.”

(Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

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The arts are thriving in Westport.

And “06880” is proud to partner with the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center to help the next generation of artists develop their talents.

To the tune of $5,000 worth of scholarships.

The grants will go to current high school seniors with financial need who want to pursue an arts education at any level — university, community college or an arts school. All Westport 12th graders are eligible, no matter where they currently attend school.

The DFCAC is funding the scholarships. It was founded by Friedman — the downtown property owner, restauranteur (Onion Alley, Cobb’s Mill Inn, Stonehenge Inn) and philanthropist whose first wife Bobbie was an accomplished artist.

The Drew Friedman Community Arts Center also sponsors workshops and projects for students. The center is administered by Nick Visconti, Friedman’s longtime business partner.

To apply, students who currently participate in art classes or art activities should send up to 8 digital images (JPEGs) of their work. It can be any medium — photography, painting, sculpture, drawing, digital art, or other.

Applicants should also submit a statement of up to 300 words describing the value of art in their life, and the world at large.

Send images and the statement (or any questions) to info@DrewFriedmanCommunityArtsCenter.org (subject line: “2025 Scholarship”). The deadline is February 28.

Drew Friedman Community Arts Center representatives Miggs Burroughs and Nick Visconti (far right) and then-1st Selectman Jim Marpe congratulate previous arts scholarship winners.

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A reader writes: “On Tuesday, the Westport Representative Town Meeting approved roughly $1.5 million for a new floor for the Staples fieldhouse.

“Prior to the vote, a concerned RTM member told the participants that the new floor would be coated with PFAS (synthetic chemicals resistant to heat, water, oil and grease).

“It’s unclear if those responsible for awarding the floor contract knew this, but it appeared this was new info to most or all RTM members.

“After revealing this info, several other RTM members reinforced their colleague’s concern.

“After these concerns were raised, 32 members voted to approve the funding; 2 abstained. The view seemed to be that the urgency of installing a new floor should take priority over the toxicity the flooring would create.

“Given the massive litigation surrounding the manufacturers of PFAS, it seems shocking that town officials would knowingly approve toxic flooring for use by children for the next 25-30 years without considering the liability implications.

“Both 3M and DuPont have settled for billions already. More litigation is ongoing.

“I hope a quick solution can be found to replace the proposed flooring with a safer alternative. This should be a red flag to us all that Westport needs to tighten up its supply chain review process to include products that have been proven to be toxic.”

The Staples High School fieldhouse.

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The Westport Library is many things, to many people.

It’s books, art, lectures. And — as anyone who has been to the Trefz Forum knows — it’s also about music.

Westport residents and Library fans Les and Samira Dinkin are frequent attendees, at events like VersoFest, Supper & Soul and more.

Now, they’ve shown their appreciation with a donation of musical instruments.

In honor of Les’ late brother Corey, the couple has given a vintage 1959 Silvertone hollow body guitar with the original matching Silvertone tube amplifier, plus other vintage Ampeg, Harmony, and Ibanez guitars and tube amps.

All will support Verso Studios, the Library’s music and media hub. The instruments — Corey’s favorite — will be used by visiting artists, and those recording in the studio space.

“I couldn’t think of a more fitting way to honor Corey’s legacy,” says Les, a longtime supporter of Verso Studios, Verso advisory board founding member, and VersoFest official sponsor (and amateur drummer).

“Corey was passionate about all types of music, from classical to jazz and especially the blues, as a collector, fan, and musician.”

Corey Dinkin composed what Les calls “very eclectic jazz fusion and blues compositions,” and performed at clubs like New York’s Bitter End.

“I wanted to see these instruments being appreciated and played, not sitting in a storage unit,” Les says.

Senator Richard Blumenthal fondly calls the Westport Library “the noisiest Library in Connecticut, if not the country.”

To learn more about Verso Studios’ capabilities, gear and services, click here. The Library also has music and media equipment available through its Library of Things.

From left: Les and Samira Dinkin, Verso Studios’ Travis Bell, Westport Library director Bill Harmer, with part of the Dinkins’ musical instruments donation.

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If you’re looking for a “Westport … Naturally” image that encapsulates winter in Westport, you’ve come to the right place.

Here’s the Saugatuck River yesterday:

(Photo/Leigh Gage)

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And finally …  on this date in 1878, Senator A.A. Sargent of California introduced an amendment to Congress that would grant women the right to vote. It took a mere 42 years, but the amendment was ratified by Congress in 1920. 

(There are no gender — or age, or residency) — restrictions on who can donate to “06880.” Just click here, to register your support for your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Education, Library, Local politics, Longshore, Westport Country Playhouse

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Unsung Hero #325

Posted on March 6, 2024 | 2 comments

Alert “06880” reader Tom Belknap writes:

I recently had an amazing experience with Verso Studios at the Westport Library.

I’m in an acoustic jam band called Small Craft Warning. We played a few local gigs last summer, and made a multi-track recording. We decided to release a live album from one of the shows.

We’ve self-recorded and released other albums in the past, but never a live recording, and never as an acoustic trio. We needed help mixing the album.

I checked with Verso Studios, and learned people can sign up for free 1-hour blocks with their studio technician, Travis Bell.

Travis Bell, in Verso Studios.

Travis could not have been more knowledgeable and enthusiastic. He taught me a ton about the art and science of mixing. and helped a lot as I mixed our album.

Verso Studios is nothing short of amazing. Even more amazing is the public access.

I want to write to acknowledge Travis’ great help, and spread the gospel to other “non-professional” musicians who might benefit from a little professional guidance.

(Actually, also to professional musicians. Travis said this is one of the best mixing studios in the state. It is easy to believe that is true).

To hear our (and Travis’ work) on YouTube, click here. For Spotify, click here. For Apple Music, click here.

Full disclosure: Travis is the sound engineer for the “06880” podcasts. I echo how easy it is to work with him — and how remarkable the Westport Library’s Verso Studios is. For more information — including public access — click here.)

(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com. And if you’d like to support our “06880” work, please click here. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Fireworks Trash, Long Lots, Prospect Gardens …

Posted on June 30, 2023 | 8 comments

Thousands of people had a blast at last night’s fireworks.

There was wonderful community spirit. Friends met; strangers mingled; joy filled the air.

The one downside: Not everyone picked up after themselves.

Totney Benson notes: “Substantial debris was left behind. Most impressive was the carefully piled and bagged trash and pizza boxes a mere 15 steps from the trash bins!”

(Photo/Rick Carpenter)

So Public Works and Parks & Recreation Department employees were out in force, all night long and right through dawn, making sure Compo Beach and Soundview Drive look perfect for the weekend.

(Photo/Rick Carpenter)

Thanks to all who helped — those who cleaned up after themselves, and those who cleaned up after those who did not.

And if you left a mess: Just think about the message you sent to Westport.

Especially to your kids.

(Photo/Karen Como)

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The Long Lots School Building Committee posted this on Facebook:

“The LLS Building is working through the feasibility phase of the project. The committee, along with an architectural design firm and construction management company, is still evaluating and discussing all three options for the future of LLS.

“Options include: 1) Renovate the existing school as new, 2) Renovate the existing school as new plus build additions, or, 3) Build a new school building. With all three options, the existing school needs to remain open and in use during construction.

“No recommendations or decisions regarding how to proceed have been made. The committee expects to make a recommendation to the Selectwoman’s office in August.

“The committee is taking great care to evaluate all aspects of the site to find the ideal location for a new building or additions, while respecting the residential neighborhood, maintaining town fields, ensuring adequate parking, and preserving or relocating town assets such as the community gardens – it is a challenging balance!

“While the school is the priority, the committee fully appreciates the beauty and value of the community gardens, as well as the importance of town fields and maintaining a symbiotic relationship with neighbors. At this point, the committee is considering all options before making its recommendation. We know the town governing bodies and Westport residents would want and expect nothing less.

“The LLSBC will hold its next scheduled meeting on Friday, June 30 at 10 a.m. All Building Committee meetings are noticed on the Town website. The public is welcome to attend and there is time for public comment/questions at the meetings.”

The Long Lots Elementary School campus. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)

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Westport celebrated the 4th of July with fireworks last night, on June 29th.

But there are still 5 days to go until the holiday. And many Westporters will be thinking of more pyrotechnics.

Westport Fire Marshal Terry Dunn says, “The public has been overwhelmed with advertisement, signs, and sales pitches of so-called fireworks. The only legal ‘fireworks’ items in Connecticut are sparklers.

Sparklers are non-explosive, non-aerial devices that contain less than 100 grams of pyrotechnic material. They can be legally used only by persons aged 16 or older.”

Novelty items like party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that emits a flame are not legal for private use in Connecticut. In addition to being illegal, exploding devices can cause painful, debilitating injuries.

Sky lanterns (small hot air balloons made of paper, with an opening at the bottom where a small fire burns) are also illegal in Connecticut. They can cause fires and injury. The flaming lantern can travel long distances and drop onto roof tops, fields, trees and power lines.

Our area has experienced dry conditions, making it very easy for fireworks, sparklers and fountains to cause brush fires. Extreme caution must be exercised even with campfires, as the fire danger has been elevated.

Possessing or causing to explode fireworks can result in a fine or incarceration.

Sparklers are legal — but only for people 16 and older. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between June 21 and 28.

A woman was arrested for larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, identity theft and conspiracy to commit identity theft.

A companion had been arrested on similar charges earlier. They stemmed from the complaint of a First County Bank customer, after a fraudulent check of hers was cashed for $2,940. Her car had been broken into, and her purse stolen.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 4 citations
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Larceny: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Driving with a foreign license for more than 30 days: 1
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
  • Violation of readable plates: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to drive right: 1

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Over 30 Y’s Men of Westport & Weston members, and their guests, were treated to a tour of Prospect Gardens on Wednesday.

Owners Melissa and John Ceriale welcomed the visitors, who were led by curator/landscape designer/master planner Cindy Shumate.

The Prospect Road property includes nearly 9 acres of flowers, shrubs, lawns, walking paths, meadows, orchards, trees and more.

Y’s Men and guests, at Prospect Gardens. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

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If you missed Alison Stewart’s WNYC “All of It” interview about the Westport Library’s first-in-the-nation record label vinyl release — no problem.

You can hear it — including an interview with sound engineer Travis Bell, artist Dani Capalbo, and some of the music recorded at the Library’s Verso Studio — by clicking here.

Travis Bell, at work.

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The year is winding down for the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club. On Wednesday, new president Liz Wong was inducted.

They’re still smiling over last weekend’s Great Duck Race. More than 3,000 plastic ducks “competed,” raising more than $70,000 that the club will donate to charities.

Here’s the entire event, in just 42 seconds:

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Stacy Prince offers an intriguing close-up, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Stacy Prince)

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And finally … Bobby Osborne, a singer and mandolin player whose bluegrass band flouted convention by using drums, electric bass, pedal steel guitar, twin banjos and string sections — and were the first to amplify their instruments — died Tuesday near Nashville. He was 91.

The Osborne Brothers are best known for their 1967 record, “Rocky Top.” Click here for full obituary.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to support our work, with a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Police

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Roundup: Parker Harding Petition, Chris Paul & Lindsay Czarniak, Verso Vinyl …

Posted on June 27, 2023 | 6 comments

A petition signed by 64 electors has been submitted to the Town Clerk, and Westport Representative Town Meeting moderator Jeff Wieser.

The petitioners — 3 times as many as required — say:

In the interest of having a full and transparent public discussion on the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee’s  goals, process and proposed plan for Parker Harding, we request that the RTM add to its September 5, 2023 agenda the following item:

A review of the DPIC’s goals, process and proposed plan for Parker Harding, to be led by the lead petitioner, with an invitation to the Chair of the DPIC to present if desired, with time reserved for RTM member and public comments following the review.

Petition organizer John McCarthy says, “This is not a step we wanted to take. But we do so to make sure the voices of concerned citizens and impacted merchants are heard.

“The RTM is the public body which most fully represents all the people in town. Letting that body hear, first hand, how people feel about the plan is vital at this stage, before it is set in stone and presented as a yes/no decision to Planning & Zoning, the Board of Finance and ultimately the RTM.

“Following the last DPIC meeting,  which included constructive comments from more than 30 members of the public that attended, the DPIC has decided to ignore all of those comments and is pushing ahead with the original plan, which is to spend $6 million, remove over 40 parking spaces and get rid of the vital cut- through road in Parker Harding. We can do better than this.”

The RTM petition follows one on Change.org, opposing the proposed elimination by the DPIC of the Parker Harding Plaza cut-through lane from Main Street to the Post Road, and the reduction of 44 parking spaces.

That petition was signed by over 1,000 residents.

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Chris Paul appears (virtually) at the Westport Library tonight (Tuesday, June 27, 8 p.m.).

The basketball star discusses his life, and new memoir, with journalist, FOX Sports anchor and Westport resident Lindsay Czarniak.

The event will be livestreamed and recorded as part of her podcast, “Lunch with Lindsay.”

After the conversation, members of the audience can ask questions. Autographed copies of Paul’s “61” book will be on sale.

Czarniak tells “06880”: “Human connections are so important. I’m so excited for the audience to get a chance to see and interact with Chris Paul because his story is so impactful and he relates it so well. He is still one of the biggest names in the NBA and he has so much to share.

“I read his book cover to cover. There were so many different layers. He has so much perspective. To be able to talk to him with an audience of kids and adults will be powerful. The fact that he is starting over with a brand new team — one of the strongest in the NBA — makes this even more interesting.”

Paul’s fans are one target audience. So, she says, are anyone interested in hearing a story that goes “way beyond the basketball court. I laughed and cried reading his book because he related his experiences in such a masterful way.”

Interestingly, Czarniak was about to interview Paul for her podcast, when she learned he had been traded to the Golden State Warriors 90 minutes earlier.

“Seeing him still processing the whole thing was pretty cool,” she says.

Chris Paul and Lindsay Czarniak.

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Speaking of the Library: WNYC has been promoting one segment on today’s “All Of It,” with Alison Stewart.

It’s about the Verso Studioes vinyl record released last month — the first one ever produced by a public library, anywhere.

The promo includes a great shout-out to the Westport Library.

We know it’s a special place. Now millions of WNYC listeners will know too. (Hat tips: Tom Broadbent and Mark Mathias)

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When she heard about Westport’s huge July 9 party honoring our sister city, Lyman, Ukraine (click here for details), Felicia Catale wanted to help.

She’s doing it the best way she knows: by offering free haircuts.

Between now and the July 9 party, the owner of Salon Nash on Post Road West will give a cut, gratis, to anyone who donates at least $60 to Lyman.

Those cuts and blow dries — for men, women and kids — usually go for a lot more than that.

Click here to donate via the Ukraine Aid International website (under “Designation,” choose “Westport-Lyman” from the dropdown menu).

Then call or text Felicia (203-747-9753) to make an appointment. Brring your donation receipt to enjoy your free, generous hair session!

Felicia Catale

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Arn Peter Berglund, a 1970 Staples High School graduate, was killed in a bicycle accident last week in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

A motorcyclist struck the University of Idaho graduate, while he was pedaling away. He was wearing a helmet, but died at the scene. An investigation is ongoing.

Arn Berglund

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Joan Harper died peacefully at The Greens at Cannondale in Wilton last week, surrounded by her family. She was 92.

The Bridgeport native worked in retail before landing a job as a secretary at Sikorsky Aircraft. She met her husband Jim there.

They moved to Westport in 1960, and raised their children here. Once they were grown, Joan worked as an administrative assistant at Hall-Brooke Hospital.

Joan was an avid reader, loved crossword puzzles, and watched old black and white movies. She was an excellent cook, specializing in Hungarian dishes.

She is survived by her son Jim (Karen) of Oxford; daughter Susan Kowalsky (Daryle) of Westport; grandchildren Harley and Barrett Kowalsky, and Jessica and Caitlin Giorgio (Stefano); great-grandson, Hudson Giorgio, and brother Richard Donnelly of Stratford. She was predeceased by her husband, and sister Barbara Fritz.

The family thanks The Greens at Cannondale for their kindness, compassion and care, and her caregiver and friend Marjorie Reid for her love and support.

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This deer gets its daily requirement of greens — and much more — at Grace Salmon Park.

It’s a “Westport … Naturally” scene that too many homeowners are too familiar with.

But you gotta admit: It’s cute!

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … Doc Pomus was born today, in 1925.

You may not know his name. But you sure know some of the songs he wrote.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Library, Local politics, Obituaries

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Roundup: Pickleball, Trampolines, Duck Race …

Posted on July 7, 2022 | 5 comments

The agenda for next Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (July 11, 7 p.m., Zoom) includes important discussions, such as converting the current Westport Rehabilitation Complex on Post Road West into a more modern eldercare facility, and redeveloping the 117-room Westport Inn into a smaller hotel with a restaurant, bar, event space, fitness center, pool and site improvements.

The existing Westport Inn (left), and the proposed new structure.

Two other interesting items are up for discussion too.

Birchwood Country Club wants to construct 4 pickleball courts, near their existing tennis courts. They’d fill a need — at least, for members of the private club — but they’re close to a few homes.

The ball will be in P&Z’s court.

The other intriguing item involves trampolines: Should they be regulated by zoning? And if so, how?

Most trampolines are above ground. But what about permanent, in-ground trampolines? A resident has asked for an interpretation.

Click here for the full P&Z agenda, including a Zoom link.

In-ground trampoliine.

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Westport Sunrise Rotary’s Great Duck Race returns this Saturday (July 9). There’s a new location — Jesup Green — but the same family fun.

The day begins with a 10 a.m. Fun Fair in the Westport Library parking lot. Activities include a Nerdy Derby, face painting and bubble machines.

At 1 p.m. on Jesup Green, 3,000 plastic ducks will slide down a 160-foot sluice course. Each wears a number, matching a $20 raffle ticket. The first 10 ducks down the course win money for their ticket holders. First place is $5,000. Second place wins $1,000. The next 8 finishers get $500 each.

The event is a major Sunrise Rotary fundraiser. Proceeds support charitable endeavors in this area, the state and around the world.

Click here for tickets. Click below for a sneak quack peek.

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The Great Duck Race is not the only water-related activity this weekend.

Sunday marks the 43rd annual Westport Weston Family YMCA’s Point-to-Point Compo Beach Swim. The mile-long event includes competitors from across New England and the tri-state region.

All proceeds go to the Y’s aquatics programs to improve aquatics safety in the community, including swim lessons for all ages.

There are 4 heats, based on ability. Advanced swimmers start at 8 a.m., followed by intermediate swimmers (8:05), beginners (8:10) and myTeamTriumph (8:15).

That last group is special. My Team Triumph is a national non-profit serving children, teens adults and veterans with disabilities who could otherwise not experience endurance events like open water swims, road races, or triathlons.

“Captains” (special needs athletes) are paired with able-bodied “angel” volunteers, who use specialized racing equipment such as rafts to pull their captains during the race. Special needs athletes who would like to participate must register in advance with My Team Triumph.

Eegistration can be done online at westporty.org/43rd and is $50. Walk-registrations costs $60, starting at 7 a.m. The top 3 men’s and women’s finishers win awards. Swimmers get Point-to-Point swim caps and t-shirts.

The start of the Point-to-Point swim.

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No small potatoes: 19 teenagers and 9 adults just returned from Saugatuck Congregational Church’s High School Youth Group mission trip to Maine,

They stayed in Old Orchard Beach, and worked on a Growing to Give farm in Brunswick. The organization raises organic vegetables using climate-friendly methods, and donates them to food banks and pantries.

The youth group also cleared trails for the Saco Land Trust.

Saugatuck Church youth group, in Maine.

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Whatever’s old is new again.

Back in the day, movies like “Casablanca” drew large audiences to drive-in theaters across America.

Most drive-ins are long gone. But Westport has one: The Remarkable Theater, in the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

Last night’s screening was (of course) “Casablanca.” Here’s a classic photo, of a classic scene:

(Photo/Pippa Bell Ader)

Next up: “Caddyshack,” on Monday. Click here for tickets, and the full schedule.

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Westport Lifestyle Magazine’s July issue is out. Among the highlights: a deep dive into the Westport Library’s Verso studios. Click here to learn more about the professional-quality production facilities right under our noses (and open to the public).

One of the Verso studios. (Photo/Brendan Toller for Westport Lifestyle Magazine)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature is this visitor to Franco Fellah’s garden. Judging by its looks, I wonder if there is anything left for Franco to eat.

(Photo/Franco Fellah)

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And finally … on this date in 1928, sliced bread was sold for the first time (on the inventor’s 48th birthday) by the Chillicothe Baking Company of  Missouri.

There is no record of when the phrase “the greatest thing since sliced bread!” was coined.

(“06880” may not be the greatest thing since sliced bread. But we do rely “greatly” — okay, entirely — on reader support. Please click here to help.)

5 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Library, Local politics, Real estate, religion, Sports, Teenagers, YMCA

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South By Southwest Meets Westport: Library Hosts Music & Media Festival

Posted on February 23, 2022 | 3 comments

It’s been a while since a librarian “shushed” a patron at the Westport Library.

Like many other libraries, ours evolved into a town center. It’s a place for conversation and community. There’s a MakerSpace for discovery, a café for coffee, a stage with a beautiful piano.

But it’s unlikely that any library has done what Westport’s will do April 8-10. That’s the weekend for VersoFest: a unique, immersive music and media festival and conference.

For 3 days, the Library will rock even more than usual.

Concerts, panels and workshops with Grammy winners, a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member, actors, movie studio executives, legendary journalists and famous songwriters — VersoFest promises something for everyone.

Lez Zeppelin — a Led Zeppelin tribute band — kicks off the festival Friday night. Spin Magazine calls them “the most powerful all-female band in rock history,” and Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page gave thumbs-up to their blistering arrangements and note-for-note sounds.

Lez Zeppelin will rock the Westport Library.

Talking Heads fans get a double dose on Saturday. In the afternoon, co-founder and drummer Chris Frantz joins WPKN general manager Steve DiCostanzo in a livestreamed conversation about Frantz’s new memoir, Remain in Love.

Chris Frantz

That night, Chris Frantz Presents Emerging Artists showcases Enid Ze, a futuristic African pop band from Bridgeport. Their debut album was produced by composer Chris Ruggiero.

The opening band is Deniprobably, an indie group from New Haven.

Saturday’s schedule is filled with other workshops too.

Michael Jai White

Michael Jai White, a Bridgeport actor/writer/director with over 100 film and TV credits, is building an international production center in New Haven. His keynote speech will cover his life, career and vision for Jaigantic Studios.

Vibe Magazine editor Datwon Thomas, Grammy engineering winner Emily Lazar and Verso Studios’ audio producer Travis Bell will join Dick Wingate — a Westport record executive who worked with Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Aimee Mann, Peter Tosh and Pink Floyd — to discuss music production .

Hands-on workshops will be led by Joe Bouchard, co-founder of Blue Öyster Cult; Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair and New York Times writer Joe Hagan; country singer-songwriter Drew Smith, and hip-hop legend Dooley-O.

Sunday’s “bagel brunch” features international best-selling author (and Westport resident) Jane Green. Her new novel Sister Stardust looks at the Rolling Stones’ 1960s travels and travails in Marrakesh.

Josie Jo Armistead — a soul music Renaissance woman, former Ikette, recording artist, record label owner and songwriter — will be interviewed by Beehive Queen and “Saturday Night Live” tour de force Christine Ohlman.

The final performance is by groundbreaking young blues visionary Selwyn Birchwood. His band includes a sax, bass, drums and keyboard.

In the works for over a year, the event is an extension of Verso Studios — the Library’s media resource and production hub/cultural and learning center. Verso offers cutting-edge facilities for multimedia production and events, including a hybrid-analog recording studio, and a stage with an 18-foot LED screen; state-of-the-art lighting, video and digital projection, and seating for over4 00 people.

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker hails the Music & Media Festival as one more way for the Library to build innovative community. She calls Verso Studios “the perfect venue.”

“06880” is proud to join WPKN as a media sponsor of this event. The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce is co-producing all 3 concerts.

The panels are free. The concerts and workshops are ticketed events. Click here for more information.

3 Comments

Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Library, technology

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Roundup: Kentucky Aid, Urgent Care, Arnie’s Place …

Posted on December 19, 2021 | 1 comment

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On the last Sunday before Christmas, Main Street is packed today with almost-last-minute shoppers.

While buying gifts for friends and loved ones, Steve Crowley hopes we’ll think about everyone in Kentucky whose holidays — and lives — were upended by last week’s tornadoes.

Steve — the owner of SCA Crowley Real Estate Services — has swung into action. He got a logo (courtesy of Miggs Burroughs) with the words “America Lends a Hand.” He ordered dozens of t-shirts, with the design.

Marty Rogers produced a sign. It’s in front of Vineyard Vines all day today, where Steve and his sons are selling the shirts, in return for donations to the Western Kentucky Relief Fund. 100% of all contributions go directly there.

In the midst of everything, stop in front of Vineyard Vines to help out. And, Steve says, if you can’t be there, send a tax-deductible check made out to “Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund,” c/o Public Protection Cabinet, 500 Metro Streeet, 218 NC, Frankfort, KY 40601.

Steve Crowley (right) and sons, selling t-shirts outside Vineyard Vines today.

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As the Omicron variant surges, and COVID cases soar, the Urgent Care center on Post Road East — which offers rapid testing i– has been swamped with patients.

As Bob Weingarten notes,  the line of cars there “has replaced the normal line at Starbucks” across the street.  .

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

Hey: If there’s an accident at Urgent Care, at least you won’t go far for treatment.

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Marty Greenberg lives on the Saugatuck River, across from the Rowing club. Last night around 8:30, the “floating Christmas team” passed by, for the second time.

“What a sight! What a treat!” Marty says. “it’s a unique Westport thrill.”

Floating Christmas tree, across from the Saugatuck Rowing Club. (Photo/Marty Greenberg)

Readers: If you’ve got photos — or any other info on the floating Christmas tree, like when it will next ride the river — click “Comments” below.

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Sure, this is one of the busiest weeks of the year. But if you get a chance, stop in to the Westport Library’s Verso Studios holiday open house tomorrow (Monday, December 20, 7 p.m.).

The creative staff will show off their podcast, mixing and mastering equipment.  They’ll answer questions about audio and video creation, editing and post-production, including training courses.

Registration is requested, for planning purposes. Click here to RSVP, and learn more.

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Speaking of the library: Longtime and beloved Westport artist Roe Halper’s acrylic paintings will be on display there from January 5 to March 7.

There’s a reception January 13, and an artist’s talk February 10. Both begin at 7 p.m..

COVID got you worried? Contact Roe for a private viewing: http://www.roehalperart.com.

“Orange” (Roe Halper)

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Speaking of the Library: It can’t run without volunteers. Betty Lou Cummings was one of its staunchest.

She served many other organizations, including her fall festival baby, the Applel Festival. She was a Representative Town Meeting member, as well as a 2nd selectwoman.

Yesterday, Betty Lou and her husband Tom celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary. It was the same day I — and so many other Westporters — got their classic Christmas card, filled with photos of children, grandchildren, and random others.

Happy anniversary — and Merry Christmas — to one of our town’s favorite couples!

Betty Lou and Tom Cummings.

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Meanwhile, across Jesup Green from the Library, the Westport Book Shop continues to fill an important niche.

And the used book store does it with panache. Here’s their current sign:

(Photo/David Meth)

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Here’s a last-minute gift idea for anyone who remembers hours spent at Arnie’s Place arcade (or dreams about paying their taxes in pennies, as Arnie did).

Virginia Wong — the Westport native and entrepreneur who spent many happy hours at the controversial (to parents and town officials) and joyful (to kids) Post Road video arcade (now Ulta) — has reanimated the iconic graphic from Arnie Kaye’s long-running campaign to open, and stay open.

“I Support Arntie’s” t-shirts come in 4 colors. They’re perfect for any ’80s Westport kid.

Click here to order. But hurry! Tomorrow (Monday, December 20) is the cutoff for Christmas delivery.

“I Support Arnie’s” t-shirt, in pink.

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If you haven’t been to Compo Beach lately, you’ve missed serene winter “Westport … Naturally” scenes like this:

(Photo/Jonathan Prager)

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And finally … Edith Piaf was born on this day, in 1915. The French singer-songwriter. She died in 1963, just 47 years old. But she left quite a legacy behind.

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Library, Local business, Local politics, Looking back, Media

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