Phil Delgado is quartermaster of VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.
In just a few years, he’s revitalized the 100-plus-year-old organization. Once a little-noticed club — despite its location at one of Westport’s most well-trafficked intersections — the VFW is now a major part of our civic life.
The VFW hosts world-class jazz, every Thursday, and folk music once a month. It’s the go-to spot for (inexpensive) celebrations like reunions and bridal showers, and meetings for groups like Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service and the League of Women Voters. Every month, there’s a Red Cross blood drive.
There’s a full bar and meal service — plus of course the usual VFW services for veterans, from the Korean War to the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The other day on the Westport Library stage, Phil talked about all those activities, and his unlikely path to leading them. Click below for our very intriguing conversation.
Musicians and music scholars come together on December 9 (7:30 p.m., Westport Library) to discuss America’s unique genre. It’s part of Westport resident’s Roger Kaufman’s acclaimed “Speaking of Music” series.
“The Ragtime Roots of Jazz and Swing” includes live performances and expert
discussion, showing how ragtime not only seeded the growth of jazz, but formed part of the musical DNA for genres like blues, swing, R&B and rock ‘n’ roll.
The evening features performances by Miss Maybell & The Jazz Age Artistes, ragtime pianist Jeff Barnhart, Delta bluesman Jerron Paxton, and young pianist Piotr Barcz.
Barnhart and Judkins join Scott Joplin authority Ed Berlin for a panel discussion moderated by Kaufman (the grandson of prolific ragtime composer Mel B. Kaufman).
Tickets are $15. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
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If there’s something intriguing going on in town, Andrew Colabella always happens to be there.
Yesterday at Compo Beach, he saw a young couple walking near the shore.
Some balloons caught the man’s eye. “Let’s check it out,” he said to the woman.
As they got closer, she asked, “Are you proposing to me?!”
He sure was.
He got down on one knee.
She cried.
For the happy couple, this was not just another day at the beach.
(Photos/Andrew Colabella)
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Greens Farms Spirit Shop held a wine tasting yesterday.
Artist/landscaper/poet Marco Setti was in the Stop & Shop parking lot yesterday, showing off his latest creation: a Ken & Barbie “military jet,” built entirely by hand.
Johanna Keyser Rossi makes it two in a row, with today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo. Like yesterday’s, this was taken on the banks of the Saugatuck River.
And finally … in honor of Mel B. Kaufman (Roger Kaufman’s grandfather, and an inspiration for next Saturday’s “Ragtime Roots of Swing and Jazz” show at the Westport Library — story above):
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Each Christmas season, the Wreaths Across America program honors fallen servicemembers, and all who serve. Over 2 million volunteers take part, in all 50 states and overseas.
Last year, for the first time, Westport joined in.
We’ll do it again this year.
The date is December 16. The time is noon. The cemetery is Assumption, on Greens Farms Road.
It wouldn’t have happened without Patty Kondub. The popular Westport Family YMCA and Senior Center fitness instructor (and Staples High School girls golf coach) is the local coordinator.
As part of her many other Westport activities, she’s also vice president of the VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 Auxiliary.
Click here to sponsor a wreath. To designate a wreath for a specific veteran at the Assumption cemetery, email Patty: nortonpk@aol.com. You can also email her to volunteer to mark graves before December 17, and place them on that date.
SPECIAL NOTE: On today — Giving Tuesday — $5 of every $17 wreath this year is donated back to the Westport VFW.
For Patty, the project is personal. Her father — John Kondub — was a World War II Marine, and VFW Post 399 member. He earned a Purple Heart, for hand-to-hand combat in the Marianas Islands (Saipan).
He is buried at Assumption Greens Farms Cemetery — almost across from the farm where he was born, before I-95 was built.
“There are over 350 veterans buried in this cemetery,” Patty says. “I hope they all get wreaths.”
The Westport Department of Human Services’ Warm-Up Fund helps households with home heating expenses through the cold winter months.
It’s especially welcome as the cost of food, housing — and heating bills — all rise.
Tax-deductible donations to the Westport Warm-Up Fund can be made online (click here, then scroll down), or by mail to Department of Human Services, Westport Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Ave., Westport CT 06880
Back in 2020, the Hackett family wanted to do something meaningful to give back to those in need.
All avid athletes, they chose a project that connects with them, and their Westport community. (It also helps clear out clutter.)
Working with Leveling the Playing Field — a non-profit organization helps underprivileged youngsters who need sports equipment — they’ll collect new and gently used sports and playground equipment.
They’ll be at the Granola Bar this Saturday and Sunday (December 2 and 3), from 8 a.m. to noon.
(From left): Alex, Chloe and Daisy Hackett, with a few of their many donations.
You must have stuff lying around: cleats, field hockey sticks, lacrosse equipment, bats, ice hockey skates, footballs, softball gloves, soccer shin guards, etc. Click here for a full list of items — you’ll be amazed at what you forgot you have.
So clean out your garages, sheds and basements. It’s time to level the playing field for everyone!
For more information about this amazing organization, click below:
Chabad of Westport launches its new speaker series, “Critical Conversations,” with a big name.
Former Israeli Minister of Justice and Interior Ayelet Shaked comes to the Newtown Turnpike center this Thursday (November 30, 7:30 p.m.).
Shaked is a prominent political figure, known for her dedication to Israel. Her insights and perspectives on the complexities of the region are especially meaningful in the wake of last month’s terror attack by Hamas on the nation.
A Q-and-A session will follow Shaked’s presentation. For more information and reservations, click here.
MoCA Westport’s first-ever Artisan Market (Holiday Edition) promises “a delightful day of luxury holiday shopping and art exploration.” It’s December 9 (noon to 4 p.m.), at MoCA’s Newtown Turnpike campus.
Attendees can also enjoy the current Purvis Young exhibition (and treats from the Cowabunga Food Truck).
Admission to the Artisan Marketplace is included in the $10 gallery admission fee. Admission is free for MoCA members.
Artisans include:
Mediterranean Botanicals
Hudson & King Jewelry
Bedford Embroidery
Camille & Co.
COG (Jen Cogliantry Design)
Shawls by Sonika
Jennifer Hoertz Millinery
Tocco Studio
hipV Modern Vintage Jewelry
Lucy Curran Party
Runo Store
Ellis Sant’Andrea Fine Art
Le Rouge Aartisan Chocolates
ARRA
SantM
KVO Collections
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Westport’s PTA Cultural Arts group is bringing Matthew “Magic Morgan” to all the elementary schools this week.
He and his wife Liliana — deaf magicians from Wisconsin — perform around the world. In addition to magic, students learn some American Sign Language.
Matt and Liliana will also perform for the public at Westport Town Hall tomorrow evening (Wednesday, November 29, 6 p.m.). Admission is $10.
He’s best known as the founder of Motown Records. But he’s also a songwriter (“Lonely Teardrops,” “Shop Around,” “Do You Love Me,” “I Want You Back,” “ABC.”)
He was the mastermind behind groups like the Miracles, the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, the Temptations, the Four Tops, Gladys Knight & the Pips, and Stevie Wonder.
For several decades, Motown was was the highest-earning Black-owned business.
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The seasons change. And the Westport Farmers’ Market does too.
They’ll usher in the new one with a special Holiday Market on a Tuesday (November 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), at the WFM’s winter home: Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center, 7 Sylvan Lane.
Thirty vendors spread throughout 3 greenhouses will offer everything for Thanksgiving (and beyond): turkeys, veggies, breads, appetizers, desserts, even fresh pasta for those so inclined.
The full list:
Fort Hill Farm
Cloudy Lane
Riverbank Farm
Edgewise
Oxhollow Farm
Woodland Farm
Kent Falls Brewery
Paul’s Custom Pet Food
Wave Hill Breads
Herbaceous Catering
Farmers & Cooks
Boxcar Cantina
Kneads Bakery
Calf & Clover
Seacoast Mushrooms
Sprout Juice
Badass Bagels
Ideal Fish
Sport Hill Farm
Fatto a Mano
Herbal Deva
Bubble & Brew
Muddy Feet Flower Farm
Jackie’s Empanadas
Plantidote
Nit Noi Provisions
Ideal Fish
Stylish Spoon
Kontoulis
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Club 203 — Westport’s social organization for adults with disabilities — gathered at Earthplace last night for a special monthly event.
Called “Thankful and Grateful,” it was a chance to share a sense of belonging, and the knowledge of mattering in each other’s lives.
Everyone wished each other a joyful Thanksgiving with turkey sandwiches from The Porch at Christie’s, “turkey artwork” with MoCA, and visits from Earthplace’s feathered friends.
“We begin the holiday season with inspiration, and connections to the community,” Club 203 says.
Michael Finkel’s true tale of the world’s most prolific art thief — Stéphane Breitwieser, who stole not for money, but for personal treasure and adoration — continues the town’s 22-year tradition of greeting the new year by reading one book together.
Copies of the book are available for borrowing now at the Westport Library. More volumes arrive next month. “The Art Thief” is also available in e-book and audiobook versions.
A variety of “Art Thief”-oriented programs — including discussion groups, art activities and more — begin in January. The capstone event is January 26, when Finkel appears in-person at the Library to deliver the WestportREADS keynote address.
Finkel is a journalist and best-selling memoirist from Utah. A heralded New York Times reporter, he was terminated for compositing quotes in a 2001 story.
Shortly afterward, he discovered that Oregon murderer Christian Longo used “Michael Finkel” as an alias. Finkel reached out to Longo, forging a relationship that served as the basis for “True Story: Murder, Memoir, Mea Culpa.” It was adapted for a 2015 film, “True Story.”
Finkel’s follow-up, “The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit,” chronicled Christopher Knight, an intentional recluse who lived for 27 years in the woods of Maine with almost no human interaction. He survived by grifting life essentials.
The WestportREADS selection has been widely acclaimed. The New Yorker said: “’The Art Thief,’ like its title character, has confidence, élan, and a great sense of timing. It is propelled by suspense and surprises. … This ultra-lucrative, odds-defying crime streak is wonderfully narrated by Finkel, in a tale whose trajectory is less rise and fall than crazy and crazier.”
For more past WestportREADS selections, and to learn more about the annual event, click here.
Kings Highway Elementary School modeled kindness this week.
On Monday and Tuesday, students and staff participated in their annual Walk-a-Thon/Read-a-Thon, to raise money for the Westport Department of Human Services Holiday Program. It provides financial assistance for food, shelter, utilities, medical expenses and other needs.
Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd graders walked around the PJ Romano track for an hour — 90 laps. Principal Tracey Carbone and Superintendent of Schools Thomas Scarice cheered them on.
Meanwhile, 3rd through 5th graders read in classrooms, collecting funds pledged for their books.
Yesterday, nearly 2 dozen KHS parents worked out for a great cause — Project Purple — at the nearby F45 studio. Over $1,200 was collected for the non-profit that supports patients and raises awareness about pancreatic cancer, in honor of KHS parent George Filopoulos.
VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 has become Westport’s favorite go-to jazz spot, thanks to the weekly Jazz at the Post series.
Last night, the Riverside Avenue venue welcomed a different jazz sound.
The US Air Force Rhythm in Blue jazz ensemble — featuring Westport’s own trumpet virtuoso and arranger Michael P. Mossman — delivered inspiring music that celebrated patriotism, and the essence of the genre.
The performance was both a tribute to veterans and a celebration of Air Force heritage, resonating through the power of music.
Trumpeter Michael Mossman of Westport, with the US Air Force Rhythm in Blue jazz ensemble.
And finally … on this date in 1907, Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory joined to form Oklahoma — admitted to the union as our 46th US state.
(Whether you live here, in Oklahoma or anywhere else, “06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” Please click here to help us keep doing that. Thank you!)
Smoke shops threatened to join nail salons as Westport’s most ubiquitous businesses.
But a Planning & Zoning Commission vote last night snuffed out more openings.
After lengthy debate on the proliferation of the stores — which sell vaping and related products, and often include bright lighting — the board voted 5-2 on a text amendment to prohibit all future shops with more than 20% of the inventory or square footage devoted to smoking merchandise.
Danielle Dobin, Michael Cammeyer, Neil Cohn, Paul Lebowitz and Jon Olefson were in favor of the regulation. Patrizia Zucaro and John Bolton were against it.
In addition, stores selling smoking- and vaping-related products below the 20% threshold must now secure a special permit via a special hearing. The regulation will prohibit “candy stores” from skirting the smoking rules.
The P&Z also voted to ban all neon-like signs and displays (including LED lights) that project outside stores.
The P&Z meeting was chair Danielle Dobin’s last. Earlier this month, she was elected to the Board of Finance.
Current members — and attorney Eric Bernheim, who represented a client on a non-smoking matter — praised her for her service.
This morning, she told “06880” that she was proud to have accomplished the smoking-shop text amendment before leaving the P&Z.
Savvy Smoker on Post Road East drew criticism last night, for its products, its exterior signage, and its bright interior displays.
Six million American children experience the death of a parent or sibling by the time they turn 18 — 1 in 12 kids. Yet many people struggle with what to say when someone dies, making kids (and adults) feel different and alone.
November is Children’s Grief Awareness Month. Doing its part, Westport-based non-profit Experience Camps offers concrete language tweaks everyone can use, to create a more grief-sensitive society.
They’re “flipping the script” — literally. Click here to read some comments we often say (“You need to be strong”); then click the comment to flip it to something more meaningful (“You may feel like you need to be strong, but you don’t have to be with me”).
Experience Camps helps children cope with the death of a parent or sibling, with an extensive and innovative series of summer camps and year-round programs.
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Two Staples High School teams have reached the semifinals of state tournaments.
Both games are today. And both promise to be great matches.
The 2-time defending state champion girls soccer squad — ranked #3 in the CIAC “LL” (extra large schools) division — faces #2 St. Joseph at 6:30 p.m. tonight, at Fairfield Warde High.
It will be the third meeting of the year between the longtime rivals. In the regular season, they battled to a 1-1 draw. The Cadets eked out a 1-0 victory in the FCIAC (league) final.
Two hours earlier — 4:30 p.m., at Amity Regional in Woodbridge — the #2-ranked Wrecker field hockey team takes on #3 Glastonbury.
The timing is tight. But with a little luck, fans can catch at least part of each game.
And with all their talent (and a little luck), both Staples teams will be victorious.
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Amazon Fresh — the highly anticipated, high-tech grocery store that was supposed to replace Barnes & Noble near Little Barn, then turned into a half-finished, unopened “zombie store” — may soon sprout back to life.
Bisnow reports that Amazon is moving forward with expansion plans.
Stores will be redesigned, and add coffee and donuts. It’s a pivot away from what Bloomberg calls its “tech-heavy strategy” of the past.
Amazon will redesign stores and add offerings like coffee and donuts, with an emphasis on these items instead of the tech-heavy strategy it employed in the past, according to Bloomberg.
“We will have a good pipeline for next year,” Amazon Fresh worldwide vice president Claire Peters said. “What we won’t do is open stores aimlessly.”
Click here for the full story. (Hat tip: Don Spiegelman)
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Was politics on or off the table last night at Tarantino?
We’re not sure. But there definitely was a ton of experience last night, at the Saugatuck restaurant.
Five current or former members of the Board of Selectmen/women got together, along with a former Board of Finance member. Can you name all these once and present town officials?
Sitting (from left): Former 3rd selectman Charlie Haberstroh, Karen Hess, current 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, former Board of Finance member Ed Iannone, former 2nd selectman Avi Kaner. Standing: Former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe, current 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.
The VFW is well known for its “Jazz at the Post” Thursday night series.
But there’s more jazz at Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 on Riverside Avenue this Wednesday (November 15 (7 p.m.).
The US Air Force Rhythm in Blue Jazz Ensemble — featuring Westport trumpeter Michael Mossman — comes to town for a concert. It’s part of their extended Veterans Day tour in the tri-state area.
They’ll also host students from Westport and Bridgeport, for pre-concert workshops.
It’s all free — courtesy of the United States Air Force.
Yesterday’s Roundup included the great news that Clemson University’s men soccer teams won their 2nd ACC championship in 4 years, with a penalty kick win over the University of North Carolina.
The Tigers boast 2 Westport connections: Head coach Mike Noonan (a star on Staples’ 1978 state championship team), and reserve keeper Paddy Donovan (Staples ’22).
Somehow, a photo of the 2 was not published. It’s a great one (below). Go Tigers!
Coach Mike Noonan and goalkeeper Paddy Donovan.
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Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Sam Green pushes the bounds of theatrical experience with live score/narrated documentaries like “The Love Song of R. Buckminster Fuller” with Yo La Tengo, “A Thousand Thoughts” with the Kronos Quartet, and “The Weather Underground,” chronicling the rise and fall of the radical political organization.
On December 8 (6:30 p.m.), the Lundberg Family Foundation Master Film Series welcomes Green’s latest Sundance and South by Southwest-selected documentary, “32 Sounds.”
The film is “a meditation on the power of sound to bend time, cross borders, and profoundly shape our perception of the world around us (through a) wholly unique, sensory rich experience.”
Each member of the audience receives headphones for an immersive “binaural audio experience” (spatial sound technology that gives listeners a clear sense of space).
Green will take part in a post-screening Q&A with the audience. The event is free. bit requires registration (click here).
“The One Note Man” — an award-winning Christmas love story about a lonely bassoonist, produced by Westporter Rita Marcocci — will be shown at the Westport Library on December 10 (2 p.m.).
A talkback follows with the film’s actor star Jason Watkins; Oscar-winning composer Stephen Warbeck, writer/director George Siougas, and executive producer — and Westporter — Rita Marcocci.
Matt Murray describes today’s “Westport … Naturally” image, of Compo Road South near Bradley Street:
“Every year since I’ve lived near the beach. I go by this street as it changes colors. Some years it’s very red. Some, like this year, it’s this shade of orange.”
And finally … on this day in 1900, composer Aaron Copland was born. The “Dean of American Composers” died 90 years later, leaving behind a rich legacy of music evoking the vast American landscape, and pioneer spirit.
(Joy, grief; music, sports, film — it’s all here, like every “Roundup” every day. If you appreciate this feature, or any other on your hyper-local blog, please click here to support us. Thank you!)
All residents are invited to a Westport Board of Education “community conversation” (Tuesday, November 14, noon to 1:30 p.m., Westport Library Komasky Room).
Any topics related to the schools can be raised. Former RTM moderator and educator Velma Heller will facilitate the discussion.
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Adam Vengrow writes:
“Each year after our Veterans Day Town Hall service, VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 hosts all local veterans and supporters for food and drinks.
“It costs about $25 per veteran. We hope to have 100 people this year.
“We want our great men and women who have served to enjoy the day. Anything ‘06880’ readers can donate is appreciated — via Paypal @vfw399ct, or email me (a.vengrow@ven2port.com) for Venmo and other options. The VFW is a 501(c)3.”
To learn more about VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, click here.
The Westport Downtown Association’s Instagram was hacked.
To follow them — and get information about upcoming events, promotions, and everything else downtown-related — click on their new Insta: @WestportDowntownOfficial.
Hard to envision this past weekend’s bridge slide?
Check out Sunday’s great drone video from Rick Giunta (sent by Andrew Colabella):
(Drone photo/Rick Giunta)
The view — looking west — shows traffic squeezed into 2 lanes. The bridge has been slid into place on the southbound side, with that entrance/exit ramp closed.
“There are 2 days each year — one in spring, one in fall – when the sun sets directly down the Longshore entrance road.
“I was lucky enough to catch it this afternoon, as I biked through Longshore. Call it ‘LongshoreHenge.'”
(Photo/John Richers)
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DNR — Westport’s favorite almost-all-physician rock band — takes the stage on Saturday, November 18 (7 p.m., Westport Library).
Of course, there’s a medical hook: “Rocking for the Cure” is a benefit for pancreatic cancer research at Nuvance Health. Dr. Richard Frank is chief of cancer research there — and DNR’s sax player.
Tony Award-winning actor and great local friend James Naughton will emcee.
Tickets are $35 each, and include wine, beer, soda and snacks. Click here to reserve, and for more information.
Oh, doctor! The DNR band.
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More entertainment: “Rock, religion and Westport’s homeless shelter” may never have appeared n the same sentence.
But they all come together this Saturday (November 11, 3 p.m.,) when the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport welcomes the Fairfield School of Rock House Band for a family-friendly concert.
It’s free — but donations to Homes with Hope’s Gillespie Center are welcomed. Concert-goers are asked to bring food and toiletries for the Homes with Hope pantry too.
Complimentary refreshments will be available, thanks to merchants like Trader Joe’s.
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Also on stage: Jaden Myles Waldman — one of Westport’s most gifted young performers — plays one of his most important roles this Sunday (November 12, 7 p.m., Symphony Space, New York City).
The Bedford Middle School 8th grader is part of “Lyrics for Life.” The goal is to break the stigma surrounding mental health through the power of music.
Jaden will sing with a star-filled lineup of performers from Broadway, TV and fil. All are between 6 and 25 years old. Hosts are Swayam Bhatia (The Mighty Ducks and Succession) and Devin Trey Campbell (MJ The Musical, Kinky Boots,Single Parents).
Jaden was on Broadway in Caroline, or Change. He recently performed a solo at Carnegie Hall’s “We are Here” concert, honoring Holocaust victims and celebrating Jewish history.
He was the voice of Peter in Pinkalicious and Peteriffic, Kun in Mirai, and TO-B1 Star Wars: Visions. his film and TV credits include The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Give or Take.
Jazz at the Post celebrates Veterans Day 2 days early.
This Thursday (November 9; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399), the popular series welcomes Tower of Power’s trumpeter Michael Bogart (a 20-year veteran of the US Navy Band), and drummer and US Army Band veteran Joe Corsello.
Also sitting in:pianist Mitch Schecter, bassist Brian Glassman and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
There is special Veterans Day pricing. Suggested minimums are $55 for the performance with dinner, $30 for music only. Funds raised will support VFW post 399, the longtime Jazz at the Post host (and a mainstay of the area’s veterans community).
Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
Roger Kafuman’s “Speaking of Music” series returns to the Westport Library with a special program. Speaking of Jazz: What It Is, is set for this Saturday (November 11; doors open at 7 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m.)
Performers include the Brian Torff Group, the Jones Factor Lite, and the Tim DeHuff Quartet.
A discussion panel includes includes author Bill Milkowski, saxophonist Rabbi Greg Wall; bassist Dave Anderson, and bassist, author and music educator Torff. Kaufman will moderate the discussion, which will include the long evolution of jazz, through multiple genres.
The grandson of ragtime songwriter Mel B. Kaufman, Roger — a 1966 graduate of Staples High School — has spent a lengthy career as a bandleader, bass player, producer, moderator and historian. He founded Old School Music Productions, which puts on the Speaking of Music series as a “cornerstone of musical education” combining narration, expert discussions and live performances.
In 2016 he helped the Smithsonian acquire, archive and exhibit donations by guitarist/composer/producer Steve Cropper (“Midnight Hour,” “Knock on Wood,” “Dock of the Bay”). He has worked closely with Smithsonian curators to archive musicians’ work, including Weston resident Jose Feliciano.
And finally … because we’re previewing so many musical performances today, including rock and jazz:
(“06880” is many things, to many people. Today it’s (mostly) music. If you appreciate these daily Roundups, please support your hyper-local blog. Click here — and thank you!)
Two dozen residents heard an update last night from the Traffic & Pedestrian Safety Task Force, at Town Hall.
Representatives from the Police, Fire and Public Works Departments, and town operations director Tom Kiely, offered updates on the coordinated effort to identify and address trouble spots.
They provided statistics — 491 special enforcement details over the past 6 months, and 2,526 traffic stops — along with tangible actions, like a new 4-way stop sign at Hillandale and West Parish Roads, and sidewalks on Main Street, Compo Road North and Cross Highway.
Traffic & Pedestrian Safety Task Force members (from left): Deputy Fire Chief Nick Marsan, Police Staff Corporal Al D’Amura, Deputy Police Chief Ryan Paulsson, town operations director Tom Kiely, town engineer Keith Wilberg, Public Works director Pete Ratkiewich. 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker also attended. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Then many residents offered trouble spots of their own.
Several mentioned Kings Highway North (east of the speed humps). Others spoke about Bayberry Lane, Imperial Avenue, Thomas Avenue, and Harbor Road on Saugatuck Shores.
A resident wants a traffic agent at Treadwell Avenue starting at 3 p.m., to handle Saugatuck Rowing Club traffic.
One person asked police to teach children about pedestrian safety. Another wondered how Westporters can help push the state Department of Transportation to move beyond its glacial pace. (One example: The town has been requesting left-turn arrows at the Compo Road South/Greens Farms Road/Bridge Street light for 3 years.)
One resident suggested painting “Don’t block the box” rectangles at intersections like Post Road West/Riverside Avenue/Wilton Road, then installing cameras and fining miscreants.
Another wondered why she never sees police ticketing drivers who run red lights on the Post Road near Trader Joe’s and Compo Road.
One Westporter urged Public Works to request more staff.
Last night’s meeting followed 9 other Task Force sessions — one for each Representative Town Meeting district — last year, and a town-wide summary meeting.
“We’ll be back again in 6 months,” promised Deputy Police Chief Ryan Paulsson.
The map on the left shows the location of “enforcement details” between April and October of this year. The one on the right shows the location of traffic stops. (Photos/Dan Woog)
As planning progresses for the Compo Beach Playground makeover, organizers want Westporters’ input.
From all ages.
The Westport Rotary Club and Westport Young Woman’s League are partnering on the rebuild. They’re the same great groups that developed the original playground in 1986, and renovated it a couple of decades later.
The Compo Beach Playground Rebuild Committee designed a survey to capture ideas. It doesn’t take long. But residents’ input will help create a fun, safe and much-loved playground.
But act soon! The survey closes Monday (October 30). Click here for the link.
Compo Beach playground: ready for a rebuild. (Drone photo/David Szymanski)
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VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 kicks off Halloween weekend tonight (Friday, October 27, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.; $5 cover ) with a Happy Hour special.
Beer and wine is $6, with chances at free drinks every hour. The food is (as always) great, and there are prizes for best costumes.
Matt Zako — founder of The City’s Backyard podcast — is host.
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Halloween weekend continues tomorrow (Saturday, October 28, 8 p.m., Westport Library), with a Halloween Concert and Costume Ball.
Costumes are encouraged. Prizes will awarded for best outfits, in several categories. Specialty cocktails, beer and wine complement music by Bella’s Bartok, a funk/pop/folk band.
It is, says the sponsoring Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, an event “to die for.”
Tickets are $20. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Bella’s Bartok
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Speaking of Halloween: Wednesday’s kids’ parade downtown — sponsored by Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department, Westport PAL and the Westport Downtown Association — included these trick-or-treaters, at Town Hall.
Andrew Wilk’s “Library Medical Series” continues Monday (October 30, 7 p.m., Westport Library), with the second of a 3-part series on the brain.
“Headaches and Migraine: Better Understanding the Diagnosis and New Therapies Available” features Dr. Dario Zagar and Dr. Robert Altbaum. A Q-and-A follows their presentation.
The Saugatuck Rowing Club Junior Program had its best-ever overall showing at the Head of The Charles regatta in Boston this month.
Current and former rowers, now competing for their colleges, contributed to the success.
In a very close finish, the men’s 8+ boat, including Westporters George Bentley, Ben Whelan, Campbell Cohen and Jack Kiely, plus Gavin Marshall of Weston, placed second, behind a late entry from the U.K. That makes them the current fastest men’s youth 8 boat in the US.
The men’s youth 8+ boat.
The women’s U17 4+ boat, with Rylie Cordell and Kate Weitz of Westport, and Anne Studnicky of Weston, captured gold. That continues SRC’s’ national streak in the category.
The women’s U-17 4+ boat (from left): Grace Baker Kate Weitz, Madeline Casano, Anne Studnicky, Rylie Cordella, coach Cody Silvester.
In other Saugatuck Rowing Club women’s junior news, the public is invited to a special event on November 7 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Lululemon).
Rowers from novice and varsity teams will talk about their experiences, and demonstrate their rowing machine workouts. Coaches be available to talk about the benefits of the program. The event includes giveaways from Lululemon and Saugatuck Rowing Club, and treats from GG & Joe’s.
All are invited (schools are not in session, for Election Day).
Yesterday’s Roundup included a photo of a porta-potty, nestled in one of the Old Mill garages near Sherwood Mill Pond, and the pedestrian path to Compo Cove.
There’s a back story. (There always is.)
A homeowner on the Cove is having work done. Either the bathrooms don’t work, or they don’t want workers using them. So they set up the portable toilet.
Of course, those potties need to be serviced. Vehicles are not allowed on the Cove.
That’s why it’s there, in the garage.
And here is what that cleaning looked like yesterday:
The Long Lots Elementary School project took one small step forward last night.
The Board of Finance discussed the project, in the first of 3 expected meetings.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker laid out the rest of the timetable, at Town Hall.
The Parks & Recreation Commission meets Monday (October 30, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium; click here for livestream), and will follow up with at least one more meeting.
The Planning & Zoning Commission will then hear an 8-24 (land use) application — most likely, not before December.
Then, a request for design specs will go to the Board of Finance and Representative Town Meeting, beginning with relevant committees.
Despite being behind schedule, Tooker still aims for for construction to begin a year from now, in the fall of 2024.
The current plan for a new building at Long Lots Elementary School must be heard — and approved — by several town bodies.
This Saturday (October 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Aspetuck Health District, 180 Bayberry Lane), the Westport Police Department partners with the US Drug Enforcement Administration, for the 25th annual Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
Residents are asked to look in medicine cabinets and drawers for medications that are no longer needed, or out of date. The service is free and anonymous, with no questions asked.
Take Back Day has removed more than 8,300 tons of medication from circulation since its inception.
Collection sites cannot accept illicit drugs, needles or sharps; only pills or patches.
Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container, with caps tightly sealed.
Vape pens with removable batteries can be disposed of at the take-back site. Vape pens without removable batteries are not accepted.
A year-round collection bin is available in the lobby of Westport police headquarters. Prescription drugs can be disposed of any time there. Click here for more information.
As tensions mount internationally, domestically and locally, the Unitarian Universalist Congregation hopes residents can come together.
“All of us are spiritual people, no matter our personal faith traditions or religious affiliations,” the UU says. “We can find solace in community … in peace, in meditation, and in reflection.”
This Saturday (October 28, 4 to 5 p.m., the sanctuary, 10 Lyons Plains Road), Rev. Alan Tayler and others will lead attendees through a meditative experience.
“It will be a time to just be, in quiet, with one another, with a very few readings and with cellist Gunnar Sahlin offering some lovely cello pieces,” the UU adds.
For over 100 years, the 1917 home at 44 Compo Mill Cove — one of the most distinctive, and most photographed homes i Westport — has weathered hurricanes and nor’easters.
It’s seen the Old Mill neighborhood change from summer shacks to multi-million-dollar properties.
Several experts thought it was too fragile to work with. But new owners Lance and Anne Lonergan wanted to preserve it.
With the help of Michael Greenberg & Associates, and a firm in Pennsylvania, they’re lifting it, renovating it, and adding on some modern features — while retaining its bones and beauty.
Here’s to another century, as the “Queen of Compo Cove.”
The effort — involving the state Department of Transportation, property owner, restaurant owner, Earthplace and Eversource.
Town officials, including Representative Town Meeting members, were key parts of the negotiations.
Representative Town Meeting members in front of the Sakura trees (from left): Don O’Day, Claudia Shaum, Andrew Colabella, Matthew Mandell, Chris Tait, Jay Keenan, Seth Braunstein.
“While walking on Burying Hill beach twice last weekend, I saw huge numbers of golf balls in the water. They come from golfers practicing their chipping, into the Sound.
“From an environmental point of view, I imagine these break down eventually and pose any number of hazards. In the meantime, it is unsightly litter.
“I took over 100 golf balls out of the water. The current pulls them out and around Frost Point back towards Burying Hill Beach. The density is always thickest toward Southport.
“I know there are many many greater issues in our town, country and world, but this seems like an easy one to fix. Perhaps the person watching the sunset and ceaselessly chipping balls from their yard into the water is unaware of potential issues with the practice, or perhaps they just don’t care.
This sign — spotted on Post Road West, near what may be the worst 4-way intersection in town — sums up many residents’ feelings about the ongoing I-95 Saugatuck Avenue bridge rehabilitation project:
Speaking of the VFW: If you bought tickets to Jon Gailmor’s “First Folk Sunday” appearance November 5 at the VFW, you’re in luck. As noted last weekend on “06880,” the 1966 Staples High School graduate is a special performer.
If you did not get tickets, you’re out of luck: The show is sold out.
Keep reading our Roundup, though, for future shows in this very cool monthly series.
Jon Gailmor
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So — still looking for something to do November 5?
The Westport School of Music offers “An Afternoon of Hot Jazz & Cool Classics” (4 p.m., MoCA Westport).
The law firm of Nguyen Lefft sponsors this chamber music concert. They’ll honor all Westport non-profit and public school music educators, and have invited them to attend.
Eleven musicians will present jazz favorites, light French classics, 2 Strauss songs, and piano 4-hands works.
Afterwards, audience members can greet the artists, and enjoy wine, hors d’oeuvres, pizza and juice.
Speaking of MoCA: 2 important events have been added to their calendar.
On November 18 (7 p.m.), 2022 Heida Hermanns Competition laureate Artem Kuznetsov returns, after performing around the world.
November 21 (7 p.m.) brings the Django Festival Allstars. They’ve played top festivals and concert halls across the US, including Newport Jazz, the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, and 24 years at Birdland in New York.
Longtime Westporter Russell Sherman discussed his varied and interesting career yesterday, at the Westport Rotary Club’s weekly meeting.
The Staples High School graduate started out in television sports broadcasting, then was head of corporate public relations at Bear Stearns when it collapsed in 2008.
He launched his own consulting firm, which was acquired by Prosek Partners.
Sherman also hosts a podcast, “Press Profiles,” where he interviews leading business reporters, anchors and editors.
Russell Sherman (Photo/Ellin Curley)
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Claudia Sherwood Servidio captured today’s gorgeous “Westport … Naturally” image, o a recent late afternoon off Cross Highway.
(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)
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And finally … following up on the Unitarian Universalist Congregation’s “come together” invitation for this Saturday (story above):
(Another day, another jam-packed “06880” Roundup. If you enjoy, learn from or otherwise appreciate this daily feature, please support our work. Click here — and thank you!)
Missed the Westport League of Women Voters’ candidates debates for the Planning & Zoning Commission, Board of Education and Board of Finance?
No problem! They’re archived. Watch them now (or any time before November 7).
Just click here. www.westportct.gov. Scroll down; then click on “Watch Meetings.” Scroll all the way to the bottom; click on “Other Meetings and Events.”
Listen. Learn. Then vote!
Planning & Zoning Commission candidates, at last week’s League of Women Voters debate.
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Two dozen Westporters — including 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker — were among the 200 guests at last night’s United Nations reception for a ground-breaking arts exhibition.
The display — in the main lobby — depicts Miggs Burroughs’ “Signs of Compassion.” His 30 lenticular photos show local residents using sign language to recite Emily Dickinson’s poem of the same name.
Nearby is fellow Westport artist Mark Yurkiw’s Braille “prayer wheel” mantra, based on those he saw in Bhutan (including a wheelchair-accessible element).
The Westporters’ work takes up the entire 100-foot wall in the UN lobby.
Ever since the United Nations moved into its Manhattan headquarters in 1951, the lobby’s rotating art exhibit has been sponsored by member nations. For what is believed to be the first time, the featured works are offered by individual artists.
The display is open to the public weekdays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., through November 20.
Miggs Burroughs with one of his 30 lenticular images. This one is of his son Brady. (Photo/Helen Klisser During)
The Y’s Men of Westport and Weston are helping with VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399’s 40th straight monthly Red Cross Blood Drive.
The event is next Wednesday (October 25, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (465 Riverside Avenue).
Everyone eligible to donate blood is welcome. Pre-registration helps with scheduling; click here, and use the sponsor code VFWWESTPORT, or call 800-733-2767.
This year, as many as 40 million Americans will face hunger. One third of college students will be food insecure. While millions go hungry, America’s food system allows over 100 billion pounds of food to go to waste annually.
On November 14 (7 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church), the Westport Farmers’ Market, Wakeman Town Farm, Sustainable Westport and Food Rescue US-Fairfield County present a free screening of “Abundance: The Farmlink Story.”
The award-winning documentary explores youth-led solutions to food insecurity and wasted food. All are welcome — especially students.
There is a reception before the film. After, there’s a panel discussion with local food system leaders and experts, moderated by Chef Michel Nischan, Wholesome Wave executive chair.
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Longtime Westporter Angelo Rotella Sr, died October 7, with his family by his side. He was 72.
A native of Sersale, Italy, he moved to Norwalk at age 9. Angelo graduated from JM Wright Technical School. Shortly after, he met the love of his life, Marylee Denke.
Throughout more than 50 years together, their family says, “Angelo and Marylee’s homes were filled with love and life (and tons of wall paper). Despite taking care of family, friends and a variety of pets, there was always room in their home for everyone.”
Angelo’s favorite pastimes included spending time with his family, gardening and fishing. He quickly became the Wii bowling champion in his family.
His family adds, “Angelo was a great listener. When he spoke, he offered sound advice coupled with wisdom and compassion.
“Angelo wasn’t afraid to try new things, get dirty, or work hard.” He started his career as a mason, then worked for the town of Westport at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. For years, he celebrated his love for the water by working the night shift at Longshore’s ER Strait Marina. Angelo retired in 2017, after 27 years of dedication.
He is survived by his wife Marylee; children Dawn, Angelo Jr. and Lisa; grandchildren Brianna, Paddy, Darragh, Isabelle and Angelo III, and sister Josephine Mercurio.
Calling hours will be held at Harding Funeral Home today (Wednesday, October 18, 4 to 8 p.m. Mass will be held tomorrow (Thursday, October 19, 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Wittingham Cancer Center.
And finally … on this day in 1967, 66-year-old Louis Armstrong released “What a Wonderful World.” It went to #1 in the UK, but nowhere in the US. The president of ABC Records disliked the song, and refused to promote it.
Armstrong died 4 years later. Finally, in 1988 — when used in the film “Good Morning, Vietnam” — it found American success. In 1999, Armstrong’s recording was inducted to the Grammy Hall of Fame.
(Good morning, Westport! We hope you’re enjoying another “06880” post. If so, please consider a contribution to support your hyper-local blog. Just click here — and thank you!)
“06880” has warned of checks being taken from private mailboxes — and from legit blue post office boxes, near places like the UPS Store.
But now the thieves are even more brazen. Bruce Schneider writes:
“Yesterday morning, I dropped off a package at the post office in Playhouse Square.
“As I left, 2 Westport police officers were standing by the mailbox outside. One was holding a handful of letters.
“A woman approached the box, with a letter. The offices told her to bring it inside, since there was some sticky substance in the drop box, allowing someone to steal mail.
“Given the numerous stories on ‘check washing,’ I thought that dropping a letter in a mailbox right outside the post office would be pretty safe. But I guess not.
“It seems the only safe way to mail a letter is inside the post office, or handing it directly to your mail carrier.”
Like this mailbox outside the UPS store, the one outside the main post office in Playhouse Square may be “compromised.”
On Sunday, “06880” noted that Westport’s Nile Rodgers and Weston’s Keith Richards were #7 and #15, respectively, on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 250 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.”
Oops!
We forgot to mention that another neighbor — Westonite José Feliciano — checks in at #212. ¡Felicidades!
Bonus track: John Mayer of nearby Fairfield is #61.
Click here for the full list. (Hat tip: Bill Dedman)
Daisy Fording — a Staples High School senior — has kick-started the TopSoccer program.
A national program run locally by the Westport and Weston Soccer Associations, it provides learning, developmental and participation opportunities for youngsters in kindergarten through 8th grade with physical and/or learning disabilities.
Together with trained coaches, each player is paired with a volunteer buddy to learn teamwork and soccer skills, and have fun.
Games are Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Morehouse Town Park in Weston.
There are 3 more weeks in the fall season. For more information (including registration) click here, text Daisy at 203-957-2390, or email dkfording@gmail.com.
Meanwhile, this week’s “Jazz at the Post” includes a twist.
Saxophonist/composer Wayne Shorter — who died earlier this year at 89 — will be remembered for his work with Art Blakey and Miles Davis, and his own recordings.
Featured artists include trumpeter Michael Mossman, guitarist Paul Bollenback, bassist Boots Maleson, drummer Tim Horner and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
There are 2 shows this Thursday (October 19): 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Dinner service starts at 7. The cover charge is $15. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
To honor Native American Heritage Month, living historian Drew Shuptar-Rayvis presents “Life in the Eastern Woodlands: Pre-contact – 1620” (November 19, 2 p.m., outside at the Weston History & Culture Center.
On display are artifacts like bark baskets, stone axes, cookware, bows and arrows, animal pelts and leather.
Shuptar-Rayvis’ heritage includes indigenous Pocomoke, Pennsylvania Dutch, Welsh, Swiss, English, Scots-Irish, Boyko Ukrainian and Ashkanazi Jewish. He reads Wampum, works to preserve the Eastern Woodland languages, and is educated in many European languages used in colonial times.
Advance tickets ($5 each) are required. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
And finally … happy 81st birthday to Gary Puckett. His band the Union Gap wore Civil War-style uniforms, though they were from the Pacific Northwest.
There is a connection: Puckett grew up in Yakima, Washington — not from the small town of Union Gap.
His band had several hits in the late 1960s. Nearly all had “girl,” “woman,” or some form of female in the title.
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