Tag Archives: VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399

Roundup: VFW Flags, Michael Douglas, Wynston Browne …

Posted on October 28, 2024 | 16 comments

Saturday was a red-letter day in Westport.

Actually, a red-white-and-blue day.

Early in the morning, community volunteers — including Scouts from Troops 39 and 139 — gathered at Assumption Cemetery on Greens Farms Road

They placed new flag holders and flags on the graves of  veterans.

“Today was about recognizing our heroes, and making sure their sacrifice is remembered,” says Phil Delgado, quartermaster of VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, which funded the project.

Donations to help fund more flags and holders are welcome; email delgadopa@icloud.com. If any veterans’ graves were missed (not all had military inscriptions), email VFW Auxiliary member Patty Kondub: Nortonpk@icloud.com.

(Photos courtesy of Andrew Colabella and Patty Kondub)

==================================================

This past Tuesday, a Stamford gala celebrated Michael Douglas’ career as an actor, producer, nuclear disarmament activist and philanthropist. The event was a benefit for the historic Avon Theater.

Among the star-studded crowd were politicians and businesspeople. Plus 3 former Downshifters — buddies from Douglas’ teenage years in Westport.

The trio flew in from across the country: Charlie Taylor (Kentucky), Tom Hatch (New Mexico) and Morgan Smith (Idaho).

Michael Douglas with Charlie Taylor, Morgan Smith and Tom Hatch, at Stamford’s Avon Theater.

The Downshifters were a civic-minded, educational and fun hot rod club, in the 1950s and ’60s. Parents Magazine named them one of the 14 outstanding youth groups in the country. (“There must have been a father in town who worked for them,” a member said.)

(Click here and click here for some great Downshifters back stories. Click here for one featuring Michael Douglas himself.)

A young Michael Douglas. He attended Bedford Junior High School, but his parents shipped him off to boarding school instead of Staples.

The Stamford event — emceed by Terre Blair — included a short film clip of Taylor’s music, with images of cars and people from the Downshifters days. Douglas was stunned.

Another, less important video tribute, came from Michael Bloomberg.

(Click here for the Downshifters video. The music is as good as the photos. After his hot rod days, Taylor had successful dual careers, with Vanderbilt University and as a noted Nashville singer/songwriter.)

As for Michael Douglas hot rod: He had a 1947 Mercury, with a Model A axle in the back. It was named the “Ruptured Duck.”

==============================================

Speaking of film stars: Wynston Browne has enjoyed quite a whirlwind of activity.

The Staples High School senior — a non-speaking autistic teenager whose communication via a typing device has opened up his own world, and shown the rest of the world his remarkable, wide-ranging and tremendous intelligence — was featured in a News 12 profile.

On Saturday, the Cablevision team — including host Mark Sudol and Frank Bruce Rosen, who conceived of and filmed the piece — were honored as an Emmy winner.

Wynston Browne

Meanwhile, the film “Presumed Incompetent” — starring and inspired by Wynston’s life — has been accepted as a finalist at both the Santa Monica, California ETHOS Festival (November 9) and New York’s Big Apple Film Festival (December 12, 657 West 57th Street, 5:45 p.m.; click here for tickets. Click here for a link to Wynston’s acting reel.)

ETHOS is an awards program and film festival recognizing impact-driven films casting lights on critical current social causes and themes.

Wynston will do talkbacks — using his communication devices — at both the ETHOS and BAFF festival screenings.

“06880” is proud to say we knew and admired Wynston even before he was a star!

===============================================

Everyone was a winner at Saturday’s Challenger baseball’s 12th annual Halloween game and party.

The Westport Winners — the team that competes in a league for boys and girls with disabilities — squared off for an intra-squad game: Team Spooky vs. Team Scary.

Thirteen buddies from middle school age to adult joined the young athletes, along with many families and spectators.

Afterward, everyone enjoy pizza and Halloween treats.

The vibe was as fantastic as the weather.

Dressed for Halloween — and baseball. (Photo/Beth Cody)

=================================================

Clarendon Fine Art — the great gallery at the head of Main Street — welcomes Craig Alan next month.

A reception for the solo show — featuring the artist’s distinctive images of iconic faces, buildings and abstracts, in hundreds of intricately painted figures — is set for November 22 (6 to 8 p.m.). Click here for details.

Art by Craig Alan

================================================

There are just 3 days till Halloween.

So naturally, today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature features:

(Photo/Copyright DinkinEsh Fotografix)

==================================================

And finally … on this date in 1893, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 6 in B Minor, Pathétique” premiered in St. Petersburg, Russia.

He died 9 days later, of cholera.

(Today — if you enjoy any of these Roundup stories — “06880” challenges you to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

16 Comments

Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Looking back, Media, Sports, Transportation

Tagged , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Raccoon Rescue, Battle Of Compo Hill, Chili Cook-off …

Posted on October 20, 2024 | 5 comments

Another day, another animal rescue!

Michael Szeto and his wife Valerie were on their daily walk with their dog JoJo yesterday.

JoJo kept pulling them toward a sewer drain on the corner of Quentin Road and Compo Beach Road.

As they got closer, the couple saw 2 tiny claws reaching out of the storm drain. They thought it was a Halloween decoration.

But then they noticed a nose sticking out of the grate. A trapped raccoon was hanging on desperately, to escape the rising water.

They called the Westport Police. While waiting for help, passerby Althea Heisler took action.

She got on the ground and stuck her hand in the sewer, to hold the animal as it started to lose its grip on the sewer grate. Somehow, Althea kept the raccoon above water until Westport Animal Control Officer Peter Reid, followed by the Fire Department. arrived.

They lifted the grate and freed the raccoon. Without giving thanks, it scampered off toward nearby Gray’s Creek. (Hat tip: Julie Loparo)

Animal Control Officer Peter Reid (yellow vest) and Westport Fire Department officials work to free the trapped raccoon. (Photos/Michael Szeto

================================================

Ed Hynes first became interested in the 1777 British march from Westport to Danbury as a child, when he learned his neighbor’s house was partially burned by the Redcoats during the raid.

On Thursday, he spoke to the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston about that historic event. He described the landing at Compo Beach, the trek to burn the patriots’ arsenal, and the Battle of Compo Hill, as they returned to the shore.

But you don’t have to be a Y’s Man to hear Hynes’ wisdom. Click below, for his very informative presentation.

==================================================

Yesterday’s Roundup included a photo of the very depleted Remarkable Bookcycle. The Compo Beach free library was down to its last few books:

Within a couple of hours, it was almost fully restocked:

(Photos/John Richers)

“06880” readers are truly “remarkable.”

==================================================

Nearly a dozen pots of chili — beef, sausage, moose, vegetarian, you name it — were ladled out yesterday, at the VFW.

Along with many varieties of both toppings and cornbread, plus a DJ, drink special, prizes and a raffle.

Greg Gunther of the Westport Police Department repeated last year’s win in the Chili Cook-off. Second place went to Lynn Ryder of Westport Emergency Medical Services. Virginia Ferrari of the VFW and American Legion Auxiliaries was third.

The packed hall was a fundraiser for an important VFW and Auxiliary project: purchasing and installing posts for American flags, to honor the graves of 1,200 veterans at Westport cemeteries.

The goal is $6,000. Let’s hope those flags are flying soon.

Lots of chili choices last night at the VFW. (Photo/Dan Woog)

==================================================

Also yesterday: the ALS United Connecticut event to honor all those affected by Lou Gehrig’s Disease, and remember those who have died, at Sherwood Island State Park.

Those who could walk, did. Those who could join them in wheelchairs, did too.

The weather was beautiful. The atmosphere was both serious and celebratory. The fight against ALS continues.

A few of the many participants at yesterday’s ALS United Connecticut event.

==================================================

You can’t talk about American folk music without Woody Guthrie.

Two days before Election Day, First Folk Sunday honors the influential singer/songwriter/icon of democracy and freedom.

Suzanne Sheridan, First Folk Sunday’s headline singer and artistic force, will be joined for the tribute by Matt Lavigni, Paul Bluestein, Susan T. Reid, Myra Healy and Colin Healy.

Doors open at noon, at the Saugatuck Rowing Club. The music cover charge is $15. Table service is available for brunch, lunch and cocktails. Click here for tickets. For more information, call 203-984-7562.

===============================================

Congratulations, Mike Noonan!

The 1979 Staples High School graduate — who won a state championship with the boys soccer team, then earned All-America honors at Middlebury College — has just picked up the 400th win of his coaching career.

As head coach of the Clemson University men’s soccer team, Noonan is 5th among active Division I head coaches in career wins.

The Tigers have won 2 national championships in the past 3 years. Noonan’s squad has also captured 4 ACC titles.

==================================================

Westport attorney Frank Sisson writes:

:My faith in humanity was restored yesterday morning.

“As the sun was setting Friday, I accidentally dropped an Apple Watch keychain charger (not cheap), with my health club entry pass attached, near my car when leaving the Trout Brook Valley Preserve off-leash trail lot.

“I did not realize this until I got home. I drove back first thing Saturday morning. Not only was another dog owner kind enough to move her car to let me look where I had parked on Friday, but she aided me in the search.

“After a few minutes without luck, I checked the trail map box by the entrance. A kind soul had found my device, and placed it inside on top of the trail maps.

“It is nice to know that good people still live all around us, despite the discouraging headlines and political climate of these troubled times. Perhaps there is hope for us all yet, and a reason to be optimistic that all will be okay.

=================================================

Sugar maples make their first appearance in a “Westport … Naturally” feature.

Topsy Siderowf spotted these beauties at Long Lots Elementary School:

(Photo/Topsy Siderowf)

==================================================

And finally … the First Folk Sunday tribute to Woody Guthrie (story above) reminds us that, nearly a century ago, the Oklahoma native was writing songs about America’s potential — and problems.

Among the topics he addressed: immigration, migrant workers, capitalism, religious hypocrisy, and the wonders of our nation.

(This blog is your blog … from Saugatuck Shores, to Sherwood Island. Please take a minute or two to click here, and support our hyper-local work. Thank you!)

5 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Environment, History, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Roundup: October 7 Remembrance, Air-Cooled Cars, Chili Cook-off …

Posted on October 7, 2024 | 6 comments

A brilliant autumn afternon at Compo Beach was the scene yesterday for a solemn first anniversary remembrance of Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel.

(Photo/Ken Schwarz)

101 chairs symbolized the Israelis still held hostage. Attendees — some of whom march weekly to remember them — vowed to continue their vigils as long as necessary.

(Photo/Ken Schwarz)

(Photo/Richard Fogel)

==================================================

Veterans Green was packed yesterday with air-cooled car owners, their admirers — and of course, the vehicles themselves.

The 11th annual event was sponsored by the Small Car Company, the show raised money for the Bridgeport Arts & Cultural Council.

Peter Bush — the voice of “Coffee & Carburetors” — called the action. Auto tech high school students were on hand to learn (and have fun).

The event included awards, food and art exhibits.

(Photos/Sarathi Roy)

Westport-based Small Car Company — a club for air-cool aficionados — is loosely connected to the car dealership of the same name. It was located on Post Road West, diagonally across from Kings Highway Elementary School. Most recently, it was the site of Carvana.

==================================================

The Westport Public Schools have embraced the concept of “growth mindset” — continuous developing through learning.

A special “Ignite Learning with a Growth Mindset” workshop (October 16, Westport Library) will allow the broader community to support students and staff on this journey.

Participants will learn how the beliefs we hold about our abilities shape our lives in significant ways, and how to apply this knowledge to support both their own success and that of their children.

“Growth mindset is not just about academic achievement. It’s a life skill that can benefit everyone,” says CJ Shamas, co-chair of the district’s Growth Mindset initiative.

“This workshop will provide practical strategies for embracing challenges, persisting in the face of setbacks, and viewing effort as the path to mastery.”

The event is free, but registration is required. Click to select one of the options for October 16: 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. or 7 to 8:15 p.m.

================================================

As the weather cools, chili heats up.

VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 marks the season on Saturday, October 19 (5 to 8 p.m.), with a Chili Cook-off.

The public is invited to the event, which includes a DJ, drink specials, prizes, a 50/50 raffle, and of course many varieties of all-you-can-eat chili.

Tickets ($25) are available at the door.

==================================================

Pure Salon & Beauty Studio — one of Westport’s many women-owned businesses — has closed.

This is the scene, at the corner of Taylor Place and the lower library parking lot:

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

==================================================

Saturday’s Pic of the Day contained an erroneous photo credit. The image was taken by Rowene Weems.

(Photo/Rowene Weems)

==================================================

Dogs have been allowed on Compo Beach for nearly a week.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” subject is either eager to romp on the sand himself.

Or just happy to be driving around, in a typical canine pose.

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

==================================================

And finally … in honor of yesterday’s air-cooled car event (story above):

(We hate to “bug” you. But remember: “06880” relies on reader support. If you enjoy our work, please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

6 Comments

Posted in Beach, Education, Library, Longshore, Politics, Transportation

Tagged , ,

Roundup: VFW Dredging, Restaurant Week, Sunrise Rotary …

Posted on September 29, 2024 | 7 comments

Yesterday — after years of fundraising and preparation — VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 began dredging its 50-year-old marina.

The Saugatuck River project will restore the 34-slip marina, a task required every 20 years to maintain its functionality and safety.

The initial phase began with Post members dismantling the existing marina, in preparation for the digging to start next week.

 

“We’re very excited and relieved that we are finally moving forward,” says Post 399 quartermaster Phil Delgado.

“With growing local membership and more visiting veterans taking advantage of our offerings, we realized this project was essential to ensuring our financial future.

“We will create a space where veterans, their friends and the community can enjoy the fantastic views of the Saugatuck River.”

 

Dock work on the Saugatuck.

=================================================

Restaurant Week begins today.

The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s annual event runs through Sunday, October 13. Yes, that’s 2 weeks. I guess “Restaurant Fortnight” sounds too confusing, in this video game age.

One of the 20 restaurants — Rizzuto’s — has added something special to its prix fixe menu.

Owner Bill Rizzuto has planned a “throwback menu” to the days the Riverside Avenue spot was Manero’s. (It was later several other restaurants, including John Harvard’s and Conte’s.)

It features a buttery garlic bread basket, prime rib, and (of course) Manero’s beloved gorgonzola salad with each main course dish.

They’ll also serve “dividend martinis and Manhattans.”

For a full list of all participating restaurants, with links to their menus, click here.

PS: This week marks Rizzuto’s 15th anniversary here. Congrats!

Rizzuto’s

=================================================

There’s a special guest at this Friday’s Sunrise Rotary Club meeting.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker will share her administration’s priorities, and offer updates.

The event, at Green’s Farms Church, starts at 7 a.m., with coffee, bagels and muffins. The meeting begins at 7:30, with Tooker starting around 8.

At its regular meeting on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club will have as its speaker Westport First Selectwoman Jen Tooker. She will share her administration’s priorities and provide an update on all the great things that are happening in Westport. There will be time for Q&A.

The public is invited,witht RSVPs requested:  info@WestportSunriseRotary.org.

==================================================

Many Staples High School sports teams run car wash fundraisers.

All are high-energy. They almost always attract a few interesting vehicles.

Yesterday’s boys soccer squad car wash, at Christ & Holy Trinity Church, drew a very interesting one.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

The Westport Fire Department stopped by, after answering a call for a possible gas leak at nearby Church Lane.

No, the boys did not wash the truck. Firefighters take care of that on their own.

They are very smart men and women.

==================================================

Thomas Jendrock spotted this sign, at Sherwood Island State Park:

He calls it ambiguous.

Agreed.

“The red slash is through the person and the dog,” Thomas notes.

“Does that mean people are banned (doggie’s pets), or doggies are banned (people’s pets)?” Or both?

But the red slash does not look official. Maybe someone is trying to suggest that the sign itself should be banned?

================================================

And so it begins.

One of the first trees to turn this fall — and the subject of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — is this one on Peaceful Lane, off Whitney Street:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

There are thousands more to come.

==================================================

And finally … today is Broadway Musicals Day.

There are so many to choose from. But let’s go with one song, from one musical, with a Westport connection: 2003 Staples High School graduate Justin Paul’s “Dear Evan Hansen”):

(Since 2009, “06880” has been your source for hyper-local news and journalism. If you appreciate our work, please click here to support us. Thank you!)

7 Comments

Posted in Beach, Local politics, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , , ,

Roundup: Bus Shelters, RTM Map, Marxism In Connecticut …

Posted on September 4, 2024 | 8 comments

For years, Westporters have been distressed watching Coastal Link bus riders standing on the side of the Post Road.

Employees of local businesses are there in broiling heat, freezing cold, torrential rain and driving snow.

Two new shelters should provide some protection.

Measuring 6 by 12 feet, with roof solar panels for light, electric heat and a small computer screen displaying bus arrival times, they’ve been built on Post Road West.

One is in front of Schulhof Animal Hospital. The other is across the street.

Each shelter costs $60,000. Funding is shared by the state and town (through an ARPA grant).

On the westbound side of Post Road West …

… and across the street. (Photos/Amy Schneider)

==================================================

At the other end of town, Big Y took a big step toward its opening.

The logo is up over the supermarket, in the former Barnes & Noble building.

(Photo/Arthur Hayes)

A soft launch is set for October 24.

Meanwhile, they’re hiring in the bakery, meat, seafood, deli, produce and floral departments, along with cashiers, overnight stock clerks, and assistant management and management positions.

==================================================

Sometimes the wheels of government grind exceedingly slowly.

Other times they work at warp speed.

On Sunday, a Westporter — frustrated he could not find a map of Representative Town Meeting districts on the town website — emailed RTM moderate Jeff Wieser and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

Couldn’t it be somewhere much more visible, he wondered? Like, in the main menu on the RTM page?

Voilà!

By yesterday afternoon — the first day back at work, after Sunday and the Labor Day holiday — the link was right there, just below “Members/Contact Information.”

Click here to see. Or just look below:

================================================

Speaking of government: “A Public Conversation on Marxism in CT, Trafficking in America, Rank Choice Voting, and Election Integrity” is the title of a September 18 event (7 p.m., VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.

The event is sponsored by Connecticut Centinal.

Panelists include Lt. Gen. Rod Bishop, USAF Ret., chairman of STARRS.us; Joe Oltmann, host of the Conservative Daily podcast; Connecticut State Senator Rob Sampson, and Linda Szynkowicz, founder of Fight Voter Fraud.

In-person tickets are $30 ($100 premier). Livestream tickets are $25. A percentage of the proceeds will be donated to VFW Post 399 to fund infrastructure development.

Click here for tickets, and more information. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

=================================================

The bad news: Next Tuesday (September 10), the Starbucks near Carvel closes for a month, for renovations.

The good news: For 4 weeks, we can all drive safely on that stretch of the Post Road.

(Photo/John McKinney)

=================================================

On August 18, “Paulie” set out on his fourth “Push.”

The former flight attendant is honoring the heroes of American Flight 11, the first aircraft hijacked on September 11, 2001.

Paulie left from Boston’s Public Garden 9/11 Memorial. He’s pushing an airline beverage cart 210 miles, to the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum at New York’s Ground Zero.

This morning (Wednesday), he’ll come from Fairfield through Westport. Around noon, he’ll stop at Westport Fire Department’s Post Road East headquarters.

Keep your eye open for Paulie, as he “pushes” his way through town.

“Paulie” pushes his cart through Westport, on a previous journey.

=================================================

If you’ve never been to an Artists Collective of Westport pop-up exhibition: You’ve missed some of the most creative shows in town.

The opening receptions are especially fun.

The next one is set for Thursday, September 19 (6 to 8 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse barn).

It runs Friday and Saturday, September 20-21 (noon to 4 p.m.), with an artists’ talk on Sunday, September 22 (4 p.m.).

Exhibiting artists include Peter Mendelson, Lisa Silberman, Lois Goglia, Rosalind Shaffer, Melissa Newman, Lucienne Buckner, Erin Nazzaro, Elizabeth DeVoll, Andrew Graham, Nancy Woodward, Miggs Burroughs and Susan Lloyd.

===============================================

Sara Deren — yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club lunch speaker — has a unique job, and a moving story to tell.

She is founder and CEO of the Westport-based national non-profit, Experience Camps. They provide a free week of sleepaway camp for 1,300 children a year who are grieving the loss of a parent, sibling or caregiver.

Deren noted that the camps don’t try to “fix” the grief. Instead, they ameliorate the sense of isolation it causes, by teaching youngsters how to talk to the staff and with other youth in the same situation.

That, and the support of others, gives them the tools they need to move on with their lives in a positive way.

Sara Deren, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

==================================================

Norwalk native Mike Camacho headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (September 5, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $20 music cover, $15 for veterans and students).

The drummer will be joined by pianist Ben Rice, bassist Alec Safy, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.

==================================================

Nature photographer Lou Weinberg took today’s very compelling “Westport … Naturally” image. It shows a green sweat bee on Autumn Joy Sedum, at the Westport Community Gardens.

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

Lou explains: “The green sweat bee gets its name from the fact that is attracted to the salt in human perspiration. (Don’t worry — it won’t sting unless it is really threatened; even then, its sting is mild.)

“These beautiful critters live in the soil and feed on the nectar from flowers and a sweet ‘honeydew’ created by little bugs called aphids. They store ‘pollen bread’ for themselves and their young.

“Green sweat bees add to the incredible biodiversity found in the Long Lots Preserve surrounding the Community Gardens. They are one of over 300 species of native bees found in Connecticut. Native bees are incredible pollinators, more efficient than the European honeybee.

“They have innate habits adept at pollinating hundreds of important native plants — the same plants (trees, shrubs and wildflowers) that have been planted in the Long Lots Preserve.

“As habitat loss and decreasing plant biodiversity are the primary sources of native bee population decline, it would be incredibly disappointing to destroy the Long Lots Preserve as well as the Westport Community Gardens.

“Populations of dozens of other species are being brought back by the native plantings reestablished there. When you disturb the soil, you destroy the bees.”

=================================================

And finally … in honor of our new bus shelters:

(Politics, art, business … just another day at “06880.” If you enjoy our daily Roundups — or anything else we do — please click here, to make a tax-deductible donation. Thank you!)

8 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Politics

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Pedestrians Struck, GOP Votes, VFW Celebrates …

Posted on August 8, 2024 | 1 comment

Westport Police Department are investigating last night’s very serious accident.

Two pedestrians were critically injured just before 7 p.m., when a Mercedes SUV struck them on the Imperial Avenue sidewalk, near Post Road East.

Westport Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services raced to the scene. The driver is cooperating with investigators.

Police say the vehicle was traveling north, toward the Post Road., when it veered onto the sidewalk.

Police ask anyone who witnessed the accident, or has relevant information, to call Detective Erin Shaw at 203-341-6023.

==================================================

You may have missed it.

But Republican primary voting began on Monday. It continues through next Tuesday (except Monday).

There are 2 contests: United States senator (Gerry Smith vs. Matthew M. Corey), and congressman (Bob MacGuffie vs. Michael Goldstein).

Voting hours are today (Thursday, August 8, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.), and tomorrow, Saturday and Sunday (August 9- 11, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) — all at Town Hall only.

On Tuesday (August 13), Republican voters should go to their regular polling places.

For more information, call 203-341-1115.

==================================================

All veterans — and their families, and all veterans’ friends — are invited to the VFW’s annual District 1 picnic.

Set for this Saturday (August 10, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, 465 Riverside Avenue), the menu includes a pig roast, pulled pork, brisket, burgers, dogs and sides. Early arrivals will enjoy bacon egg and cheese sandwiches.

Yacht Rock DJ Matt Zako will provide classic tunes throughout the day.

All-you-can-eat tickets are $30, and include wine and beer. They’re available at the door, as well as Venmo and the VFW bar.

==================================================

Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests between July 31 and August 7.

A 57-year-old Westport woman was arrested for criminal violation of a civil protection order, after using a shared space in an apartment building that violated a previous order.

A 53-year-old Bridgeport man was arrested for larceny. Beginning last October, he allegedly stole $13,292.85 from Fresh Market cash registers, after initiating cash returns.

A 38-year-old Bronx woman was arrested for larceny, identity theft, forgery, and conspiracy to commit those crimes, after a check made out for $172.66 was stolen from a blue UPS mailbox. The check amount was altered to $8,457, and the payee’s name was changed to that of the suspect.

A 60-year-old Westport woman was arrest for failure to respond to an infraction, after a motor vehicle stop for operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 21 citations
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 9
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 6
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5
  • Driving while texting: 4
  • Following too closely: 2
  • Improper use of markers: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Speeding: 1
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to cancel registration within 10 days: 1

Texting while driving is illegal — even at a red light.

==================================================

Congratulations, Chandler O’Reardon!

The 2018 Staples High School graduate is one of 15 finalists for the CBS Morning’s “Mixtape Competition.” The public votes for the winner. Her stage name is Chandler Flannery.

She played in the Long Lots Elementary, Bedford Middle School and  Staples orchestras. She made her audition tape on a lark. It’s not as polished as some of the others — but she’s a finalist with them, and thousands of others are not.

Click here for more information.

Chandler Flannery

=================================================

Speaking of music: The United Methodist Church of Westport & Weston presents The Legacy String Quartet this Saturday (August 10, 6 p.m).

The ensemble brings classical music back to life, blending traditional repertoire with elements of jazz and Latin music.

A $15 donation is requested.

Legacy String Quartet

==============================================

Whether you believe the Olympics are some of the most exciting competitions you’ll ever see, or you think they’re sports can’t identify involving athletes from countries you’ve never heard of, you’ve got to like the spirit shown at this Hillspoint Road home:

(Photo/Matt Murray)

Vive la France! Enjoy the Olympics! And go, Team USA!

=================================================

Speaking of the Olympics: Bob Weingarten has quite a collection of Games pins.

The pins — honoring the Olympics from 1896 to 1996 — were created by IBM, a sponsor of the ’96 event.

Weingarten — a longtime Westporter, and noted house historian — had some skin in the game.

He was in charge of development of the Atlanta 1996 Olympic IBM information system, for the International Olympic Committee.

==================================================

Speaking of sports (specifically running): Hugh Connell, owner of the Westport-based Sea Salt Run Club, is organizing a 2-mile fun run this Saturday (August 10, 5:30 p.m., Union Avenue, Bridgeport).

The route begins and ends at Foolproof Brewing Company. The event includes free brews, food and recovery, plus a tour of the brewery and a raffle for Fleet Feet of Westport gift cards.

NOTE: Unlike the Olympics, this is not a race. Participants run at their own, most comfortable pace.

==================================================

Nina Marino sends along this caterpillar — well, a photo of it — from her garden.

She explains today’s “Westport … Naturally” image: “I was hoping he would stay and become a chrysalis, then a butterfly. But he moved on.”

(Photo/Nina Marino)

==================================================

And finally … Soul singer Joe Tex was born on this day, in 1935. He recorded his most memorable songs in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Some people, including Little Richard, claim that James Brown stole Tex’s dance moves and microphone tricks. He died in 1982, age 47.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. If you appreciate our several-times-a-day posts, covering every aspect of Westport, please click here to support our work. Thank you!) 

1 Comment

Posted in Entertainment, Local business, Media, Police, Politics

Tagged , , , , , ,

Roundup: Sweetgreen, Saugatuck River Caffe, Roadway Cracks …

Posted on July 30, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Sweetgreen, Saugatuck River Caffe, Roadway Cracks …

Welcome, Sweetgreen!

The national salad chain opens today, in the Compo Acres Shopping Center space formerly occupied by Organic Krush.

They’re doing a special meal match with Food Rescue US.

From 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. today, Blossom + Stem has created over 100 bud vases filled with local flowers for customers. There’s also iced coffee and cookies, and Sweetgreen swag.

Westporters who know Sweetgreen are excited. Let’s hope the hype is true.

==================================================

More restaurant openings. And this one took a lot less time than the 2 years from when Sweetgreen first applied for an exterior sign, to today.

Saugatuck River Caffe — a self-described “Italian deli” — has moved into the space vacated by Winfield Street Deli. They opened yesterday.

The new owners are very familiar with the property: They own Arezzo restaurant, around the corner.

That means patrons can use Arezzo’s patio — one of Westport’s premier riverfront dining spots.

The menu features hot and cold sandwiches, wraps, salads, paninis — and of course, coffee.

Saugatuck River Caffe is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Click here for the website, with the menu and more information.

==================================================

The 49th straight monthly Red Cross Blood Drive at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 is tomorrow (Wednesday, July 31, 1 to 6 p.m. Veteran blood donors — and first-timers — are welcome.

Click here to make an appointment. Use sponsor code VFWWESTPORT. You can also call 800-733-2767.

================================================

The Public Works Department’s annual roadway crack seal program begins today.

Work will take about a week, on 12-15 miles of town streets.

Alternating one-way traffic flow will be used. Keep your eyes open — and drive carefully.

Attention will be paid.

=================================================

Staples High School Class of 1987 graduate Linda Hall’s latest piece — “What Alice Munro Knew” — has been posted on The New Republic’s website.

The subtitle reads: “After news of Munro’s betrayal of her daughter, its hard not to see a preoccupation with guilt and secrets in her later work.”

Hall is an associate professor of English at Skidmore. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)

Linda Hall

============================================

“Westport … Naturally” photographer Johanna Keyser Rossi snapped this great close-up of a butterfly, at the Library Riverwalk:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

==================================================

And finally: On this date in 1975, Teamsters leader Jimmy Hoffa disappeared from the parking lot of a Michigan restaurant. He was never seen again.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. We rely on reader support for all we do. To make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Roundup: Sweetgreen, Saugatuck River Caffe, Roadway Cracks …

Posted in Media, Restaurants, Transportation

Tagged , , , , ,

Roundup: Lyman Attack, Hillspoint Demolition, Dolby Talk …

Posted on July 17, 2024 | 11 comments

Two 550-pound Russian guided bombs injured at least 5 people on Monday, in Westport’s sister city of Lyman, Ukraine.

A photograph in the Kyiv Independent showed some of the damage:

 (Photo/Vadym Filashkin for Telegram)

Aid for our sister city is always needed. To donate to the non-profit Ukraine Aid International — founded by Westporters Brian and Marshall Mayer — click here. Click the “I want to support” box; then select “Support for the City of Lyman.” Scroll down on that page for other donation options (mail, wire transfer and Venmo.) (Hat tip: Thomas Jendrock)

==================================================

The tiny cottage sat at 246 Hillspoint Road, across from Old Mill Beach, for a century.

It took just a day for it to be gone.

The home — the last remaining non-modernized structure on that stretch of the street — was demolished this week.

Here was the scene yesterday:

(Photo/JD Dworkow)

Construction begins soon on its replacement.

================================================

A large crowd enjoyed Thomas Dolby and Chris Frantz in conversation yesterday, at the Westport Library.

Dolby — a musician, producer, composer, entrepreneur and teacher who played synthesizer for David Bowie, Stevie Wonder, Joni Mitchell and others during his eclectic career — discussed his new book, “Prevailing Wind,” with the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, former Talking Head and longtime Library supporter.

Thomas Dolby (left) and Chris Frantz. (Photo/Dick Wingate)

================================================

Also yesterday: “06880” founder Dan Woog — hey, that’s me! — was the guest speaker at the Westport Rotary Club’s weekly lunch meeting.

I had a great time, offering a peek behind the scenes at our town’s hyper-local blog.

There was a robust Q-and-A session too. Among the most interesting questions: My take on the most important events in our town’s history — the ones that helped make Westport what it is today.

My answer was — nope, sorry. What’s said at a Rotary meeting stays at a Rotary meeting!

Dan Woog, at yesterday’s Rotary Club meeting. (Photo/Dave Matlow)

=================================================

This Saturday, Stop & Shop is the place to stop, shop — and donate food.

The Westport Police Department and Westport Sunrise Rotary are hosting a food drive, at the Post  Road East supermarket. All donations support Homes with Hope and the Department of Human Service’s food pantries.

Police officers and volunteers will accept non-perishable food items and cash donations, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Suggested donated items include applesauce, breakfast bars, macaroni and cheese, canned vegetables, canned fruit, canned meat and tuna, canned Soup & Stew, Cup of Noodles soup and ramen noodles, cereal, gluten-free foods (pasta, soups, cereals), granola and protein bars, hamburger or tuna helper, Hearty Soups, ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, oatmeal, pancake mix and syrup, pasta and sauce, peanut butter and jelly, rice, and miscellaneous snacks. No glass jars, please!

If you would like to volunteer or have a large pick-up, call Anna Rycenga (203-763.9656).

==================================================

“The Best Is Yet to Come!”

That’s the message from the Westport Country Playhouse — and the name of the show celebrating Cy Coleman’s greatest hits. (It’s also the title of one of his most famous songs.)

The September 14 fundraiser features Kristin Chenoweth and Mary-Mitchell Campbell, performing the multiple Emmy, Grammy and Tony Award winner’s music.

In addition, the Playhouse’s 2024 Leadership Award will be presented to longtime board member (and TEAM Westport chair) Harold Bailey, Jr., and his wife, civic volunteer Bernicestine McLeod Bailey.

Tickets are $1,000, $500 and $300. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Kristin Chenoweth

==============================================

The Wednesday Norwalk Community Health Center Farmers’ Market has included onsite meals made by Katie Gervasio. She uses farm produce, and offers samples along with recipes to make them at home.

A voucher program provides customers with bags of fresh-picked vegetables.

What’s makes the market special is its voucher program for the NCHC’s patients with low income. Vouchers have been funded primarily by sponsors, but they have to be rationed near the end of the season.

To supplement the funds, the Health Center hosts a comedy night at Westport’s Joseph J. Clinton VFW Post 399 on Friday, July 26 (7 p.m.).

There will be 3 comedians, plus raffles, a live auction, cash bar and pub grub. Click here for tickets.

If the event’s name — Funny Farm — is any indication, it will be a very  hilarious night.

==================================================

This photo is from Monday. But it’s so dramatic it’s worth posting, a few days late.

Jonathan Rosenour captured this lightning strike over Saugatuck Shores, during a very brief afternoon storm:

(Photo/Jonathan Rosenoer)

==================================================

It’s hot and humid.

But Westport’s beauty continues. And it’s very, very “cool.”

Here’s today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature, from George and Bevi Bullwinkel’s yard:

(Photo/Bevi Bullwinkel)

==================================================

And finally … in honor of the Westport Country Playhouse’s upcoming benefit tribute to Cy Coleman (story above), here’s my all-time favorite performance, of his all-time best song:

(From world affairs to entertainment, food drives to real estate, “06880” is your blog for hyper-local news. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

11 Comments

Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Library, Police, Politics, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , , , , ,

Photo Challenge #496

Posted on June 30, 2024 | 24 comments

Many of our Photo Challenges are visible from the street.

Last week’s was not.

The Westport Striped Bass Club leaderboard (though without any leaders) is planted firmly behind VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, at the Riverside Avenue/ Saugatuck Avenue fork.

It’s on the Saugatuck River, by the VFW docks.

Four readers knew that. Fittingly, all are longtime — very longtime — Westporters: Andrew Colabella, Jeff Arciola, Dave Eason and Richard W. Alley.

They know this town as well as anyone. From the front to the back.

PS: Andrew notes that the VFW is fundraising. They want to dredge the marina, and expand their docks. Click here to help,

This week’s Photo Challenge is below. If you know where in Westport you’d see this, click “Comments.”

(Photo/Susan Garment)

(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)

24 Comments

Posted in Photo Challenge, Saugatuck

Tagged

Roundup: Great Duck Race, Sidewalk Sale, Blood Drive …

Posted on June 30, 2024 | 1 comment

Non-ducky weather did not dampen yesterday’s Great Duck Race.

The annual Sunrise Rotary Club fundraiser drew its usual large crowd of bettors, kids, and everyone else looking for a family-friendly, offbeat way to have fun.

Over 3,000 small plastic ducks were dropped from a giant front loader, then raced down a 160-foot sluice course constructed by Rotary members with help from the Westport Fire Department.

Here’s some of the race action:

Before the start. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

The crowd waits. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

And they’re off! (Photo/Mark Mathias)

It’s a very crowded field. (Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker provides play-by-play. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

The winner nears the finish chute. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

The big — as in $5,000 — winner was Will Augustyn.

George Masumian’s duck came in second, earning him $1,000.

Eight other winners picked up $500 each: Stephen Pianka, Jim Marpe, David Moore, Michael Paul, Steven Benardete, Jason Rich, Aimee Monroy Smith and Judith McBride.

It was all for a great cause.

Sunrise Rotary will give away 100% of all proceeds to local and international charities. Officials estimate that $70,000 was raised.

Congrats to all Rotarians, for a great day of entertainment and good works.

Congrats to the winners, too. You trained your ducks well.

Meanwhile, there was plenty else to do, before the actual race, like a Nerdy Derby, pin making, bubble machines and more, plus sponsors’ tents and food trucks.

Here are a few scenes:

Cub Scout Pack 39 sponsored a “Rainbow Regatta.” (Photo/James Delorey)

Kids’ activities were bubble-icious. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

In just a few months, Alina’s Cakes & Cookies has become an important part of the community. Owner Alina Dancho got into the spirit, with duck-themed treats.

Ducks know that the earth is nearly 75% water. The Great Duck Race shared Jesup Green with jUNe Day, when guests from around the globe came to town. Many stayed for the Sunrise Rotary fun. (Photo/Dan Woog)

==================================================

Of course, the Westport Downtown Association Sidewalk Sale was part of yesterday’s fun.

It continues today, on and around Main Street (including Sconset and Playhouse Squares).

It may rain this afternoon. So get there early!

Rhone — and many other downtown merchants — invites you to their sidewalk sale.

======================================================

VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399/August Matthias American Legion Post 63 just passed a milestone:  4 straight years of monthly Red Cross blood drives. Over 2,220 donors have participated.

On Friday, the drive sponsored by the Goddard Schools in Westport drew over 80 donors.

VFW quartermaster Phil Delgado says, “thanks to sustained partnerships with other community non-profit organizations, we have become the premier Red Cross Blood donor site in Fairfield County

“Remember: One unit of blood can save up three lives.”

The next blood drive is July 31 (noon to 6 p.m). Click here for an appointment. (use this sponsor code: VFWWESTPORT), or call 800-733-2767.

Four straight years of monthly blood drives.

==================================================

On Friday, Lynn Bishop glanced out her dining room window, near Clinton Avenue — and saw this young bear ambling toward her kids’ slide.

“Barely” concealing her surprise, she snapped this “Westport … Naturally” photo:

Other “06880” readers reported seeing it nearby, in Willowbrook Cemetery, and shuffling along that stretch of Main Street.

Yesterday it was seen on Easton Road and then Northside Lane, off North Avenue.

=================================================

And finally … Florence Ballard was born on this date in 1943. A founding member of the Supremes, she sang on 10 #1 hits.

Motown owner Barry Gordy removed her from the group in 1967. She struggled with alcoholism, depression and poverty, and died of a heart attack in 1976, age 32.

(The supreme compliment for “06880” is to support us, with a tax-deductible contribution. Please click here — and thank you!)

 

1 Comment

Posted in Children, Downtown, Local business, Organizations

Tagged , , , , , , ,