Tag Archives: Wakeman Town Farm

Roundup: Linxweiler Stone Wall, Citizens’ Police Academy, Stolen Mail …

Posted on September 4, 2023 | 12 comments

Drivers weaving carefully (and not so carefully) through the Post Road East construction zone just west of McDonald’s have mourned the loss of a dozen or so old trees by the Linxweiler house.

They wonder too what will become of the many large rocks that made up a now-dismantled stone wall, near the trees.

Former stone wall in front of the Linxweiler house.

For once, the news is good.

A Planning & Zoning Commission site plan shows that the original stone wall will be replaced with a new one, continuing around the radius into Crescent Road.

The original was drywall. Hopefully, the next will be the same traditional type.

Congratulations are due town officials, who secured the replacement of the wall. (Hat tip: Michael Calise)

Site plans for Linxweiler house stone wall.

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One of the coolest opportunities anywhere is the Westport Police Department’s 8-week Citizens’ Police Academy.

Participants gain a first-hand understanding of what our officers do, how they do it, and how the WPD fits into our community.

At the same time, residents and officers get to know each other much better.

25 community members participate in classes on law enforcement, and get hands-on experience with equipment. They also join a “ride-along” with an officer — and receive CPR/AED certification.

The program runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursdays from October 5 through November 30 (except before Veterans Day and on Thanksgiving), and Wednesday, December 6.

The academy is open to Westport residents age 21 and older. Applications can also be picked up at police headquarters, and are due by September 18.

Westport’s Citizens Police Academy offers an inside look into every aspect of the department.

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Seen on social media yesterday:

“If you’re like me and all of your mail was stolen from your mailbox on Cross Highway, North Compo or Weston Rd (Friday) night, apparently some of it is floating around near the Willowbrook cemetery.

“With crime the way it’s been around here lately, I guess we should feel lucky our cars weren’t stolen or smashed. It’s just our personal information compromised.”

What a shame — and a hassle. (And for those whose checks are stolen and “whitewashed,” even worse.)

But among the responses was this, which is news to me: “Sign up for ‘USPS Informed Delivery’ free service. You get a daily email, with pictures of every piece of correspondence arriving in your mailbox.”

Not a good idea. It’s an invitation to thieves that there is mail — often a check — inside.

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Yesterday’s Saugatuck Congregational Church service honoring the late Rev. Ted Hoskins was a chance for old friends to remember the longtime senior and youth minister.

It was a chance too for people who never knew him to learn more about one of the founders of Westport’s homeless shelter and food pantry. Today the Gillespie Center for men — and Hoskins Center for women, named for him — and other supportive housing and food projects are run by Homes with Hope.

Rev. Hoskins — who died last month — spent the last couple of decades of his life in Maine. But — as the turnout at his remembrance proved — his mark on Westport is profound, and indelible.

Homes with Hope representatives at Saugatuck Church yesterday (from left): Pete Powell, first president; Rev. Willie Salmond, who initiated the service for Rev. Hoskins; John Walsh, board chair; Helen McAlinden, president; Jeff Wieser, past president.

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If you’re wondering what Dattco is doing, now that they’ve lost the Westport school bus contract …

Yesterday, at Compo Beach. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Last winter, dozens of bagels sat for more than 2 weeks, on High Gate Road of Maple Avenue South.

No one knew where they came from. No one claimed them. No one cleaned them up. (Click here, then scroll down for a Roundup story.)

That was weird.

What’s even weirder is: They’re back.

Chris Grimm — who reported on the first outbreak — sent along this photo:

(Photo/Chris Grimm)

It looks very similar to several months ago.

Except this time, there is a large, unopened bag of bagels too, on the grass.

Very, very weird.

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Dermatologists Dr. Nina Antonov and Dr. Marc Beuttler of Modern Dermatology will provide free full body skin cancer screenings, and/or spot checks, at the Aspetuck Health District (180 Bayberry Lane) on September 26.

Appointments are available between 9 a.m. and noon, and 1-4 p.m. Call 203-227-9571, ext. 235, and ask for Judy. Limited to residents of Westport, Weston and Easton only.

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Speaking of health: Overdose awareness and Narcan training will be held September 26 (7 to 8 p.m., Town Hall Room C201).

It’s sponsored by members of the Westport Prevention Coalition and Westport RTM.

To register and for more information, call 203-227-7644.

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It’s never too early to think about beer.

Wakeman Town Farm’s annual family Beer Garden event is Sunday October 15 (noon to 4 p.m.).

The afternoon features live music by Hitch and the Giddy-Up + Rob Morton, lawn games, bubbles, face painting, photos with mini ponies, and pumpkin crafts for the littles — and a surprise craft by LaurelRock.

Also for adults: Eco Evolution, and a massage therapist for the adults.

Lunch options include pizza by Tony Pizza Napolitano, Food Truck Refinery and Oronoque Farms.

Local beer is sponsored by Greens Farms Spirits, with ice cream from Saugatuck Sweets and Landtech. Ccider donuts and refreshments are courtesy of KMS Team at Compass.

Tickets are $10 for adults; kids are free. Click here to purchase, and for more information. Food and beverage purchases are a la carte. Proceeds benefit Wakeman Town Farm educational programs.

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Two butterflies flitted around the Westport Library yesterday.

As great a photographer as Rowene Weems is, she could not get them together in the same shot.

But even one is wonderful enough for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Rowene Weems)

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And finally … Happy Labor Day!

(“06880” does not even take Labor Day off. If you’d like to leave a tip, please click here.) 

 

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Police, religion, Totally random

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Roundup: Downtown Parking, Remarkable Theater, Sweetgreen …

Posted on August 12, 2023 | 21 comments

There’s no such thing as a free lunch — at least, if you’re eating in or taking out downtown.

Downtown parking though, has always been free — for 1 or 2 hours.

During the pandemic, enforcement of parking limits was suspended.

Tickets may soon return — but only after those parking limits are extended.

The second agenda item on Wednesday’s Board of Selectwomen meeting (August 16, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium) reads:

Acting in its capacity as the Local Traffic Authority, to re-establish the enforcement of timed parking limits previously suspended by the Board of Selectmen at its public meeting of June 10, 2020, and further, to establish uniform parking limits and times of enforcement throughout the town-managed and owned downtown parking lots known as Parker Harding Plaza, Sigrid Shultz Plaza, Baldwin, Bay Street, Jesup Road, and Taylor, and the Town roadways known as Main Street, Church Lane, Bay Street, and Taylor Place, by changing FROM the currently posted “1- and 2- hour parking” limits TO “3-hour parking” limits and enforcement times TO “8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.” And further, to request permission from the CT DOT to change the current parking term limits posted on Post Road East FROM “1- and 2-hour parking” TO “3-hour parking.”

Click here for the livestream of the Board of Selectwomen session, or watch on Optimum Channel 79. Comments may be sent to selectwoman@westportct.gov prior to the meeting.

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The 3rd agenda item for Wednesday’s Board of Selectwomen’s meeting is also of interest: a request from the Remarkable Theater to use the Imperial Avenue parking lot from August 28 through November 3 for a 4th season of drive-in movies.

From 2020 through ’22, the Remarkable’s season began in the spring.

Paul and Melissa Levy, at the Remarkable Theater.

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Jacqui O’Brien was one of several readers who sent photos of a strange object seen over Westport skies last night.

Susan Leone was the first to identify them as SpaceX Starlink satellites.

They were launched yesterday from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. It was the 9th flight for the first stage booster supporting the mission.

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As first noted on “06880” over a year ago — but denied vociferously by Organic Krush — Sweetgreens is indeed moving in to Compo Shopping Center.

Organic Krush has already moved out.

No date has been announced for opening. But the fast-casual salad-based chain — which emphasizes healthy eating and sustainability, and has 158 outlets in 13 states — already has Westporters excited.

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The recent food drive for Homes with Hope’s Gillespie Center and food pantry — which included a special, fill-my-shopping-cart trip by a mother and 2 children —  was celebrated yesterday, at the Sunrise Rotary Club’s weekly meeting.

The sponsors — including also the Westport Rotary Club, Westport Police Department and Saugatuck Rowing Club — presented a check for $1,105.62 to Homes with Hope.

Those cash donations were in addition to the hundreds of bags of groceries that were dropped off, as shoppers entered and exited the store.

From left: Liz Wong, Sunrise Rotary president; Rob Hauck, Rotary member; Helen McAlinden, Homes with Hope president; Paris Looney, HWH vice president, and Sunrise Rotary members Bruce Paul and Bruce Fritz. (Photo/James Wong)

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The link provided yesterday by Wakeman Town Farm for their September 9 Harvest Fest fundraiser was incorrect. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Wakeman Town Farm’s Harvest Fest is coming soon.

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Many Westporters love pickleball. Some hate it.

But all can agree: the Smart Shots Pickleball Social is great.

The September 30 event (6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Milford Indoor Tennis) is a fundraiser for A Better Chance of Westport.

Level-designated courts will ensure exciting matches. Vendors will offer pickleball services and products. A raffle includes special prizes. The Porch @ Christie’s is providing food (available for pre-purchase).

The event is sponsored by ATP (Alan & Tina Pickleball). Click here to register. Questions? Call 203-984-1949.

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We like to think of Long Island Sound as “ours.”

But — as Karen Como’s “Westport … Naturally” photo reminds us — humans were not here first.

(Photo/Karen Como)

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And finally … anyone who saw the 2012 Oscar-winning documentary “Searching for Sugar Man” knows that Rodriguez’s story is astonishing.

The Detroit musician wrote and sang haunting protest songs. But he never found an audience, and settled into a life as a laborer and office worker.

He was “discovered” in Australia however — and then, even more so, in South Africa during apartheid. According to the New York Times:

“To many of us South Africans, he was the soundtrack to our lives,” Stephen Segerman, owner of a Cape Town record store, said in the documentary.

“In the mid-’70s, if you walked into a random white, liberal, middle-class household that had a turntable and a pile of pop records, and if you flipped through the records, you would always see ‘Abbey Road’ by the Beatles, you’d always see ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ by Simon and Garfunkel, and you would always see ‘Cold Fact’ by Rodriguez. To us, it was one of the most famous records of all time. The message it had was ‘Be anti-establishment.’”

Astonishingly, Rodriguez did not know he had fervent fans in South Africa. Equally astonishingly, South Africans thought he was dead. One rumor was a drug overdose; another, that he had killed himself onstage.

In 1998, he was discovered — alive, and living in obscurity in Detroit. He was invited to South Africa, and played concerts at  sold-out venues.

He was “discovered” again more than a dozen years later, with the release of “Searching for Sugar Man” — a film about his strange but vibrant life.

Rodriguez — whose full name was Sixto Diaz Rodriguez — died Tuesday, in Detroit. He was 81.

Click here for a full obituary. Click below to hear Rodriguez.

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Posted in Downtown, Entertainment, Environment, Local politics, Restaurants

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Roundup: White Oak, Wakeman Town Farm, Justin Paul …

Posted on August 11, 2023 | 6 comments

Our final photo of the Appletree Trail saga shows a large stump, where until yesterday a magnificent white oak stood:

Its place will be taken soon by a new home, and swimming pool.

Here is the “before” photo:

(Photos/Cathy Morrison)

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Over the years, Wakeman Town Farm’s Harvest Fest has “grown” to become one of the best fundraisers, in a town that has plenty of them.

This year’s event (Saturday, September 9, 6 p.m.) will again feature season fare by local farmers and chefs, wine and signature cocktails, live music, auctions and more.

The food station setup encourages mixing and mingling. Seating in the outdoor tent is limited; tickets go fast. Click here for tickets, and more information.

One of several food stations at Harvest Fest.

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Season 3 of Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building” includes an all-star cast: Meryl Streep, Martin Short, Steve Martin and Paul Rudd.

And — to keep things interesting — this season the “murder investigation” heads to Broadway.

To do that element right, the New York Times says, producers “enlisted the aid of a musical theater supergroup led by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, known for their work on ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ and ‘La La Land.’”

Before earning “supergroup” status, Justin was a kid — okay, a rising star even then — in Westport.

He graduated from Staples High School in 2003.

He likened the “Only Murders” experience to “theater camp.”

He told the Times: “It was just through and through a Broadway experience — there are just cameras filming it. There was that same sort of ensemble sense, whether it was Meryl or Paul Rudd or Marty or Steve, that everybody was making this show together.”

The show debuted Wednesday. Click here for the full New York Times story. (Hat tip: John Nathan)

Justin Paul and Benj Pasek, at the 2018 Golden Globe Awards. (Photo/Paul Drinkwater NBC)

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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between August 2 and 9.

A man was arrested for illegal possession of personal information, illegal trafficking in personal information, and identity theft, following a complaint by a resident that a check had been altered and cashed.

Police also issued the following citations:

  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 5 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Disorderly conduct: 1
  • Simple trespass: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 1

One person was arrested for trespassing this week.

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Westport’s Department of Human Services’ annual Back-to-School and Afterschool Childcare Campaign for families in need is underway.

Director Elaine Daignault calls the effort “a reminder that many local families struggle to afford basic school supplies, new clothing, and in some cases reliable afterschool care for their children throughout the school year.

“In addition to giving kids the tools for success in school, we recognize the importance of safe and nurturing environments for children outside school hours. Children involved in after-school programs with their peers feel more connected to the community and perform better in school. Reliable childcare allows parents to focus on their jobs with peace of mind, knowing their children are well cared for and engaged in enriching activities.”

Tax-deductible contributions can be made in 3 ways:

Online: Click here, then click “Family to Family Programs – Seasonal Program.”

Check: Payable to “Town of Westport Human Services” (Family Programs – “BTS” or “Afterschool Program” in the memo line); mail to 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

Walmart gift cards: Drop off or mail to Westport Human Services, Room 200 at Town Hall (see above address).

School supplies help children academically — and socially.

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Koda lives near the beach. He usually hangs out at Old Mill Grocery & Deli.

Yesterday he ventured out to the Westport Farmers’ Market.

Unfortunately, he saw this sign:

(Photo/Jim Hood)

OMG! I guess it’s back to the beach …

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Speaking of the Sound:

The Congregation for Humanistic Judaism’s next “Havdalah on the Beach” is tomorrow (Saturday, August 12, 6;30 p.m., Compo).

Bring your own dinner, and a chair or blanket. CHJ provides cold drinkds and dessert.

What can you expect? “A short Havdalah service, and a lovely relaxed evening with friends,” CHJ says.

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Mushrooms are a prime Westport Farmers’ Market attraction.

Sunil Hirani took several photos yesterday. This was one of the best — definitely “Westport … Naturally”-worthy.

(Photo/Sunil Hirani)

I’m sure he bought some of the very photogenic ‘shrooms too.

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And finally … the Westport Police Department report of an arrest for trespassing (story above) brings to mind (of course):

(You shouldn’t trespass. But you definitely should consider a contribution to “06880.” Please click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Children, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Police, religion, Staples HS

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Roundup: NASA, WFD, GOAT …

Posted on August 2, 2023 | 2 comments

Compo Beach-goers got more than the usual evening delights — a beautiful sky and welcoming breeze — yesterday.

Even if they weren’t aware of it.

A few minutes after 8:30, a NASA rocket with supplies for the International Space Station took off from Virginia.

Its contrails were clear to anyone who looked.

A few minutes later, the rocket ignition itself was visible.

(Photos/Jennifer Kobetitsch)

Another view of the rocket launch. (Photo/Marjolijn Baxendale)

Soon came a full moon rise — the “sturgeon moon” — over the cannons…

(Photo/Michelle Harmon)

,,, and another view, slightly higher …

(Photo/Mary Robertshaw)

… and then, this timeless image ….

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

… and another:

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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Beth Keane lives off South Compo Road, not far from the fire and police stations, and EMS headquarters.

Lately, she’s heard an increased number of sirens all day long.

I live near her. I’ve noticed it too.

She notes, “This absolutely is not the fault of our wonderful emergency services.” 

Beth wonders if there are more emergencies overall. More likely, she thinks, sirens are used more frequently “due to the increasingly horrible traffic congestion. That may be the only way to clear a path.

“It is not so routine these days to maneuver a police vehicle, fire truck or ambulance given the current congested traffic situation in good weather — let alone through snow and ice.

“At high speed it is dicey at best, probably hair-raising, and a testament to the skill of our protectors.”

I thought about this on Monday, when a fire truck raced west on the Post Road.

The 2 lanes (plus turning lanes) were stopped for a red light at Imperial and Myrtle Avenues. With no traffic coming toward it, the vehicle maneuvered into the eastbound lane, slowed at the light, then continued toward the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, as cars slowly moved right in front of Bank of America.

It’s a scene repeated several times a day. Those sirens are definitely needed.

Drive carefully, so you won’t need emergency vehicles.

But if you see one coming — ahead of you, or behind — pull over. Give it room. To help us, they need our help.

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You’d expect a goat at Wakeman Town Farm.

But at The Porch at Christie’s?

Sure! The farm, and the restaurant just a few yards east on Cross Highway, teamed up to create the “WTF G.O.A.T. Bowl.”*  It includes strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, bananas, Arethusa Farm yogurt and quinoa — topped with Wakeman Town Farm honey.

It’s $12, and is available through September 30.

Also new at The Porch: animal sugar cookies of sheep, alpacas and goats. Made by their nonprofit Sweet P Bakery, they’re $3 each. 10 % of the proceeds are donated to WTF.

The animal cookies are also available at the Town Farm’s Saturday farm stand.

* The letters stand for “Greatest Of All Time.”

Wakeman Town Farm’s GOAT Salad at The Porch.

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The Westport Library board of trustees has a new president.

Barrie Rosen takes over for Jeremy Price. He remains on the board, as immediate past president.

Rosen — a longtime Library advocate — has served on the board since 2020. She leads marketing communications at Consumer Reports after earlier stints at YP (formerly Yellowpages.com), Fox News, News 12 Connecticut, and several public relations agencies. She also serves on the board of Staples Tuition Grants.

Joining the board as new members are Bob Boroujerdi, a former partner at Goldman Sachs who most recently served as a managing director at Third Point LLC; Mark Silverstein, an internet technology and media executive who has worked at Spotify, Luminary, and HuffPost; and Martina Sze, chief development officer at HealthVest.

Of the 20 Library board members, 10 are selected by the board itself. The other 10 are chosen by the Representative Town Meeting.

Top row (from left): Immediate past president Jeremy Price, president Barrie Rosen, secretary Melissa Banks. Bottom: new board members Mark Silverstein, Bob Boroujerdi and Martina Sze.

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Lou Weinberg was the Westport Rotary Club’s guest speaker yesterday.

The Westport Community Gardens director described the tight community of avid, organic gardeners that has evolved over their 20 years at the current site, just south of Long Lots Elementary School.

He also talked about the Long Lots Preserve, the project that has reclaimed overgrown town land surrounding the garden. It’s filled now with native plants, birds and insects (particularly bees).

Lou Weinberg, at the Westport Rotary Club. His slide show highlighted the Westport Community Gardens — and the gardeners who make up the community.

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Paul von Schmidt died on July 23, at 67. He was born in Westport to Peter and Annie von Schmidt, and lived in Collinsville, Connecticut.

Music was one of Paul’s greatest passions. After graduating from Staples High School, he studied  in Vermont to be a luthier. He opened a successful business in Barkhamsted, Connecticut, making and fixing stringed instruments.

He worked with Ovation Guitars. He also repaired guitars for music stores throughout the state, supporting and advocating for local musicians. He was a talented guitar player in his own right, too,

Paul was a talented chef (known for his homegrown, homemade hot sauces), artist and avid learner.

He is survived by his daughters Tara von Schmidt and Alissa Savage-Paul (Chris); grandchildren Alexandria Savage, Ariana Savage and Finn Paul; brother Christian, extended family, and countless friends.

His family says, “Paul’s life was defined by music, storytelling and good friendships. In his honor we encourage you to raise a glass, strum a guitar string, or plan your next adventure, just as he would have wanted.”

A celebration of his life will be held in Westport on August 22. Click here for more information. To plant a tree in Paul’s memory, click here. (Hat tip: JD Dworkow) 

Paul von Schmidt

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There are tons of beautiful waterfront gardens.

At the top of any list: Martin Greenberg and Becky Keeler’s, on the Saugatuck River.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature includes one small section of their gorgeous — and very green — property.

(Photo/Becky Keeler)

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And finally … Happy International Clown Week!

(“Isn’t it rich …?” Sure! Please click here to support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Environment, Library, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants

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Roundup: 233 Hillspoint Road, 58 Saugatuck Avenue, Goats …

Posted on July 19, 2023 | 16 comments

It may not be the biggest controversy in Westport, but it is the most visible.

On this week’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and anti-blight officer Steve Smith discuss the history — and latest action  — involving 233 Hillspoint Road: aka the blue eyesore at the old Positano restaurant near Old Mill Beach.

It’s quite a saga. Click below to listen to the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston production.

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For decades, 58 Saugatuck Avenue has been an object of intrigue.

The tiny brick storefront has housed, at various times, a barbershop, florist, catering kitchen and (perhaps) a pre-Prohibition liquor store.

58 Saugatuck Avenue before …

It’s been vacant for years though, ever since the previous tenant — a pop-up art gallery — closed.

Recently, it’s gotten a nice (and much-needed) makeover.

(Photos/JD Dworkow)

What’s going in?

The use of the building is up to the owner. Current zoning allows almost any retail use, from another catering kitchen or gallery to a law office, or an artist’s or interior designer’s studio.

One fairly big drawback: There is absolutely no parking.

The building has been on the market for months. It’s in a residentially zoned lot (with a 2-family home, also recently renovated) behind.

A zoning permit was recently issued for the storefront, authorizing its continued (non-conforming) retail use. (Hat tip: Gloria Gouveia)

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When it comes to pet health food, Earth Animal is the GOAT.

So it’s no coincidence that the Post Road all-natural shop is sponsoring Wakeman Town Farm’s summer goat program.

Earth Animal provides the goats with food, bedding, animal care, veterinary needs, pen maintenance and more to keep them healthy and happy.

The sponsorship also includes “goat classes.”

WTF’s goat husbandry program includes 30-minute private feeding and socialization sessions. Its “Bottle-Feed the Kids” class offers a goat-feeding experience, along with cuddling and playing.

Earth Animal funded the recent construction of a new animal barn at Wakeman Town Farm, adding an additional animal shelter, feed storage and veterinary care space.

Merritt and Abbey Goldstein, co-owners of Earth Animal, are not kidding around.

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The world changed forever on September 11, 2001.

On September 11, 2023, servicemembers who were injured in post-9/11 wars in Iraq and Afghanistan will benefit from a special event.

Catch a Lift — the national non-profit that provides combat-injured veterans with nutrition, fitness, emotional wellness and community help, to heal emotionally, physically and spiritually — returns for a 9th year in Fairfield County.

The Patterson Club event includes pickleball, golf, dinner, and an inspiring program. Click here for more information on tickets, sponsorships and donations.

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It’s official!

Senator Richard Blumenthal recently recognized the Westport Library, Verso Studios, and their compilation album Verso Records, Volume One, in the Congressional Record.

“This record is the product of collaboration among local artists and is the first of its kind issued by a public library,” Blumenthal said. “This endeavor is an example of Westport at its best — the vision and vibrancy of the community and its commitment to artistic achievement, powering culture throughout the State of Connecticut.”

Blumenthal added that the Library has enriched the community as a leading innovator for decades, noting the MakerSpace, Library of Things, Seed Library, Cafe and Store, and prized artwork collection.

“These resources make The Westport Library one of the best libraries in all of America — a ‘noisy library,’ as its supporters say, and a true jewel of the community.”

Senator Richard Blumenthal, at the Westport Library.

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In 2012, the Suzanne Sheridan Band performed and recorded a concert of Leonard Cohen’s music at Voices Café.

Since then, Sheridan’s band has continued the tradition in many venues. On August 6 (12:30 p.m.), Sheridan (vocals, guitar), Bob Cooper (keyboard) and Joe Meo (woodwinds) will add the VFW to the list.

There’s a $10 cover. Brunch and a Bloody Mary bar (plus mimosas) are available for an extra charge.

Click here for tickets. For more information, email info@firstfolksunday.com, or call 203-222-1441.

… with Suzanne Sheridan.

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Lyn McCarthy, development director of Caroline House, spoke yesterday to the Westport Rotary Club.

Bridgeport-based Caroline House — a regular recipient of Rotary grants — provides food, clothing, English language and life skills education to immigrant women.

Lyn McCarthy of Caroline House at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Ellin Curley)

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Today’s very compelling “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from 14-year-old Emae Forman. It’s from the frog pond on Marion Road.

(Photo/Emae Forman)

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And finally … when Suzanne Sheridan channels Leonard Cohen on August 6 at the VFW, many of the tunes may be familiar. Here are 2 of my favorites:

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Local business, Real estate

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Roundup: Traffic Survey, Fiery Crash, Real Estate University …

Posted on June 17, 2023 | 13 comments

It appears another traffic survey is underway.

Devices have been placed at various points downtown.

Results will be posted, when available.

Meanwhile, here’s an early finding: There’s a lot of traffic these days.

Traffic survey device at Post Road East and Myrtle Avenue. (Photo/Sal Liccione)

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Tragedy was averted at 8:30 p.m. Friday night. A northbound SUV driver on Newtown Turnpike went into the woods. The vehicle caught fire, but he was pulled out by a neighbor.

A nearby resident notes that young children live in the area. “The road is very dangerous, because drivers who use it as a cut-through speed by.”

The Fire and Police Departments, and EMTs, were on the scene. Eversource responded quickly, and replaced the downed power line.

Newtown Avenue car fire.

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LymanAID — the huge party thanking Westporters for their support of our sister city in Ukraine — has a booth at the Yankee Doodle Fair.

Stop by today and tomorrow to learn about the big event. It’s Sunday, July 9, 1 p.m. until dusk, at the Ukrainian-American Club, Post Road in Southport next to northbound I-95 Exit 19 entrance ramp.

There’s music, food, drinks, and much more. And it’s free — though there will be opportunities to help support Lyman through  raffles, a treasure sale, Yankee auction, coffee table book pull, plant sale, “LymanADE” stand and more.

VIP tickets are available too. Click here to register, and for more details.

Katya Wauchope, at the LymanAID booth at the Yankee Doodle Fair.

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Davide — the new Church Lane pop-up — is a year-old brand. Its first retail outlet features its second collection ever.

Davide (pronounced dah-vee-day) is the brainchild of Joseph Davide Tacopina. A Westport native (and son of one of President Trump’s attorneys), he attended Cheshire Academy and met students from around the world.

Inspired by his father’s ownership of several Italian soccer clubs, Tacopina’s collection blends “athletic culture” with pieces inspired by Marlon Brando and Lake Como. There is plenty of loose-flowing linen and silk.

The 24-year-old designer is self-taught. He chose Westport as the site of his first pop-up because it’s his home. He hopes to take it global.

Click here for more information; click here for the Instagram.

Joe Tacopina, with one of his designs.

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Wakeman Town Farm’s annual Family Fun Day is set for Saturday, July 8 (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.).

The event includes ice cream, pizza, burgers and dogs for purchase, plus cocktails for adults, cold lemonade and iced coffee. 

There’s a scavenger hit, bubble show, School of Rock music, and visits to the animals. 

Click here for tickets, and more information.

This guy is ready for Wakeman Town Farm’s Family Fun Day.

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There’s a new school in town.

Real Estate University — the school for aspiring (and current) real estate professionals, founded in 2005 by Karena Piedmont — has moved from Norwalk to Saugatuck.

The move felt right. She’s already trained scores of Westport realtors over the years. Classes are both in-person and via Zoom.

The address is “Saugatuck Lofts, 101 Franklin Street” — the exposed brick, co-working space in a former grain facility at the Westport Metro-North station, as you take a right at the end of Railroad Place. It’s literally “steps from the train,” for students who travel that way.

“There’s so much synergy here,” Piedmont says. “I share space with real estate attorneys and other professionals. I love being part of a community of like-minded, hard-working small business owners. I wish I moved here years ago.”

“And I love hearing and seeing the trains pass.”

There’s one more bonus: She’s also just a few steps away from “The Benjamin“: the Airbnb she owns at 35 Franklin Avenue.

Saugatuck Lofts

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Also new: the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s director of gymnastics.

Former USA national team gymnast Bryon Knox brings over 40 years of competition. coaching and program development to his new role.

Most recently, he was head gymnastics coach at Southern Connecticut State University. Before that, he led the University of Bridgeport to 6 straight NCAA Division II national championships.

Byron coached 70 USA Gymnastics/All-Americans, and 150 scholar-athletes. He is a former USA women’s national team coach.

He has been with the Y part-time since October, coaching the competitive girls team and instructing coaches. Click here for more information on the Y’s gymnastics program.

Byron Knox

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Rob Docters’ new book — “Ethics and Hidden Greed: Your Defense Against Unethical Strategies and Violations of Trust” — answers questions like, “How do we protect ourselves and our business interests from the unethical behaviors of others? Why doesn’t intuition serve as the best guide for detecting unethical strategies?”

The 1975 Staples High School graduate hopes to make people more aware of (and armed against) scams, as well as choosing more ethical choices themselves. (A strong animal rights activist, he covers the brutality of boiling lobsters alive).

Click here for details.

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Charles McGillion-Moore of Westport helped Norwalk’s Maritime Rowing Club to a national championship in the Men’s Under-15 Coxed Quad, at least weekend’s 28th USRowing Youth National Championship in Sarasota, Florida.

Other top finishes by  Westport and Weston rowers include Men’s Youth U-16 Coxed Quad, 4th place (Adam Turner and Matthew Lupinacci); Women’s Youth U-17 Quad, 6th place (Mina Leon); Men’s Youth U-17 Quad, 7th place (Jack Cushman); Women’s Youth U-15 Coxed Quad, 8th place (Syke Coats); Men’s Youth U-16 Coxed Quad, 12th place (Fox Parker), and Men’s Youth U-16 Eight, 18th place (Simon Meyers).

The regatta marked the final high school event for Maritime’s seniors, including Dan Kleeger and Lilly Murphy of Westport, and Justin Sun of Weston.

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Two years after taking over Rosebud Slumber Parties, Helen Martin-Elmer is expanding.

Rosebud has helped nearly 2,000 area children celebrate birthdays and special occasions with themed slumber, outdoor teepee and picnic parties.

This summer, they’re expanding to Westchester County. Click here for details.

A unicorn-themed party from Rosebud.

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It’s a dog-eat-dog world.

Or, at any rate, a Sherwood Mill Pond “Westport … Naturally” scene yesterday, where cormorants chased breakfast, and egrets grabbed whatever was left.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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And finally … on this day in 1994, Los Angeles police chased OJ Simpson’s Ford Bronco for an hour and half. He finally gave up, and was arrested for the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman.

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

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Posted in Children, Local business, Sports, YMCA

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Roundup: Chamber’s 1st Citizens, Civil War, Staples Graduation …

Posted on June 9, 2023 | 11 comments

A capacity crowd (including namesakes Rev. John and Judyth Branson) filled Christ & Holy Trinity Church’s Branson Hall last night, for the annual 1st Citizen Award dinner.

The 7th annual event — sponsored by the Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce, but the first held since the pandemic — honored Westport Library director Bill Harmer, CastleKeepAdvisors founder and CEO Charlie Haberstroh, and 4 student entrepreneurs: Marley Brown, Akhila Kooma, Addison Moore and Jamie Semaya.

Charlie Haberstroh (center) and his family.

The theme of the evening — echoed by Chamber director Matthew Mandell and keynote speaker US Senator Richard Blumenthal — was “giving back to the community.”

Westport Library director Bill Harmer speaks. Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell is at left.

All 6 honorees have done that in major ways. And all expressed thanks that the communities of Westport and Weston have inspired, and enabled them, to do so.

Keynote speaker Senator Richard Blumental. (All photos/Dan Woog)

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Also last night: the opening of a new exhibit at the Westport Museum for History & Culture.

“Reluctant Liberators: Westport in the Civil War” was curated by students. Staples High School junior Talia Moskowitz took the lead, as part of an independent study project.

She got help from the museum’s high school interns: Amelia Gura, Devan Patel and Oscar Scher (Staples), Stephanie Field (Weston) and Tess Innes (Wilton).

The exhibit includes information on early Westporters like the Toquet, Coley and Ketchum families, and an exploration of racial issues during that time.

It runs through November 11.

Talia Moskowitz, at the Westport Museum for History & Culture exhibit.

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Speaking of Staples: Can’t make it to graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2023? Live far away? Or you couldn’t snag a ticket?

No problem.

Next Tuesday’s ceremony (6 p.m., football field) will be livestreamed. Click here for the link.

It’s also be available on Optimum Channel 78. Enjoy!

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As the end of school nears, here’s an important reminder: Not every family here can afford the camps and enrichment programs many take for granted.

Westport’s Department of Human Services can help.

Last summer, 58 income-qualified youth, from 32 families, participated in the department’s campership program.

This year, the number may be higher.

Human Services director Elaine Daignault encourages residents who can, to contribute. Online donations can be made to the “DHS Campership Fund” (click here), or mailed to 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

For more information — including how to qualify for a campership — email youth and family specialist Annette D’Augelli: 203-341-1050; adaugelli@westportct.gov.

Summer Camp has been part of growing up for decades. In 1953, Westport artist Stevan Dohanos used Camp Mahackeno for this Saturday Evening Post cover.

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Tomorrow marks the start of Wakeman Town Farm’s farm stand.

Open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., it features fresh produce, fresh-cut flower bouquets, WTF logowear and honey, and products from local vendors like artisan baked goods, extra virgin olive oils, gourmet balsamic vinegars, Chaga mushroom elixirs, homemade salsas and more.

The gardens are open. It’s also a chance to see the animals, and chat with farmers.

PS: This week: limited amounts of country and roasted garlic sourdough, multigrain pan loafs, focaccina minis, olive-Focaccia and bomboloni Nutella.

Wakeman Town Farm farm stand.

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When it comes to powerful adjectives and action verbs, no one beats the New York Post. 

Yesterday’s story on the the future of Phil Donohue and Marlo Thomas’ former Beachside Avenue home begins:

A Connecticut “Gold Coast” mansion sold by talk show pioneer Phil Donahue for $25 million is to be be bulldozed by its current owners who say it is falling apart and overrun by vermin.

The once-palatial Tudor on Westport’s most exclusive avenue has become a home for rats and raccoons with a caving-in roof, its new owner Peggy Reiner claims.

She is involved in a bid to tear down the 8,500 square foot manse after building a 20,000 square foot beach-view home with a commanding prospect of Long Island Sound in front of it.

The long story describes the history of the current property, and others nearby.

It also calls “06880” a “popular gossipy and newsy blog.”

Nice. But we’ll stick with “where Westport meets the world.”

Click here for the full Post story. (The “06880” mention comes near the end.)

The New York Post story includes this Google Earth photo of Phil Donahue and Marlo Thomas’ “vermin”-filled old house (rear), and the 20,000-plus square foot home that replaced it.

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The recent haze from Canada’s wildfires prompts this message, from Westport’s Office of Emergency Management:

Daycare providers, summer camps and older residents should subscribe to the Air Quality Index . It is fast, easy and provides important daily information. The link includes ground-level ozone, its health effects, what to do on a high ozone day, and how to reduce ground level ozone in your backyard.

Learn how to cope with days like this. Subscribe to the AQI. (Photo/Charlie Scott)

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Speaking of air quality: Neighbors & Newcomers has postponed today’s year-end party (scheduled for Compo Beach), due to the outdoor conditions.

A new date will be announced soon.

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Speaking of health: Both the federal and state governments have declared an official end to the COVID public health emergency.

What does that mean for testing, vaccines, insurance coverage and more? Click here for a full report from CT Mirror.

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When Judy Auber Jahnel saw a tiny insect she could not identify, she emailed a photo to the University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension.

They told her it was a spotted lanternfly nymph — quite different looking from the mature one she’s familiar with. they look quite different.

She sent this link to “06880,” in the hopes that readers will learn about them — and the damage that spotted lanternfly nymphs and adults can cause.

Spotted lanternfly nymph. (Photo/Judy Auber Jahnel)

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There must be a back story to this.

Stupid parking tricks, at the Westport train station. (Photo/Jeremy Deutsch)

And we’d sure like to hear it. Click “Comments” below.

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Everyone shops at the Westport Farmers’ Market.

Including the town’s 1st selectwoman and police chief.

Jen Tooker and Foti Koskinas were part of yesterday’s crowd.

The market runs every Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.

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Yesterday’s Roundup posed a question: What’s up with the Photoshopped figure on top of the Westport Country Playhouse photo I posted on “06880” a couple of days ago.

It took about 12 minutes to find the answer.

Miggs Burroughs — Westport’s graphic artist/photographer extraordinaire, who has worked with nearly every organization in town — Photoshopped Ann Sheffer on the roof of the building, several years ago.

It was a gift from the Playhouse to her, for her many years of service and support.

In fact, Ann — one of our town’s most philanthropic residents — spent one summer, back in the day, as an usher there.

Decades later, she made it onto the roof.

And now the mystery is solved.

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Also yesterday, our Roundup gave an incorrect date for this weekend’s “Last Lollapaloosa” at Blau House & Gardens.

The correct day for the Bayberry Ridge event is Sunday, June 11.

The day includes tours of the magnificent property, yoga, children’s book readings, a reception and more.

Click here to register (deadline: June 5), and for information on payment and shuttle transportation from Coleytown Elementary School.

A view of the Blau gardens.

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David Vita spotted this handsome hawk yesterday. It poses proudly, for its “Westport … Naturally” close-up.

(Photo/David Vita)

David adds: “This made me think about all the animals that had to breathe this foul air the past days.”

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And finally … George Winston, the new age pianist (he called it “rural folk piano”) died Sunday in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. He was 74, and had been ill with cancer.

Click here for a full obituary.

(“06880” will cover Staples’ graduation — as we do with every big town activity, and many small ones. Please help us keep doing it. Click here to contribute — and thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Real estate, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Metro-North, Super-Duper Weenies, All-Terrain Wheelchair …

Posted on May 26, 2023 | 1 comment

The Connecticut Legislature could cut up to $40 million from the $267 million the state pays to fund Metro-North’s New Haven line.

That would slice the number of daily trains from 309 to 260. Both peak and off-peak service would be affected.

Click here for the full New York Daily News story. (Hat tip: Peter Gold)

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Club 203 had a super-duper time last night.

Literally.

The Super Duper Weenie Truck) fed over 100 attendees, at Longshore’s Evan Harding Point picnic area.

The group — part of Westport’s social organizations for adults with disabilities — enjoying dancing, dining, dessert, yard games, art with MOCA, and relaxing, all with great views of Long Island Sound.

Organizers give a shoutout too to their “super-duper volunteers.”

Club 203’s next event is June 15 (6:30 to 8 p.m.), at the Westport Library. Click here for details.

Club 203 fun at Longshore. (Photo/Jacqueline Lobdell)

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Wakeman Town Farm is a fantastic resource for people of all ages and interests.

Now, it’s accessible to those with mobility issues.

The Westport Garden Club recently donated funds for a Fold & Go all-terrain electric wheelchair. It’s been delivered, just in time for the spring/summer season.

People with limited mobility, or their friends or relatives, should email  education@wakemantownfarm.org before a visit. The Farm’s dducation coordinator will have the wheelchair waiting.

From left: Kelle Ruden, Joan Andrews and Ginger Donaher, with the all-terrain wheelchair at Wakeman Town Farm.

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Visitors to yesterday’s Westport Farmers’ Market enjoyed great weather; the usual wide variety of food, herbs and more — and a “Ducks in Buckets” game.

The Westport Sunrise Rotary Club was there, promoting their annual Great Duck Race.

$10,000.00 in prize money will be given away; the grand prize winner gets $5,000 of it. All proceeds go to charities.

The annual fundraiser is Saturday, June 24 at Jesup Green. Attendance is free. Tickets to compete are available online; at the Farmers’ Market next Thursday (July 1); from any club member, and the day of the race.  

Pitching in for the Great Duck Race, at the Farmers’ Market.

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Climate change and racial justice are key issues.

And they’re related. Environmental impacts cross borders. They affect every group of citizens.

On June 1 (7 p.m., Westport Library), Roosevelt Institute director of climate policy Rhiana Gunn-Wright will explore the connections between environmental justice and racial justice. Her talk is called “Just Transitions to Regional Sustainability.”

The event is part of a Saugatuck Congregational Church initiative to “embrace our coastal community” and is a partnership with the Library, TEAM Westport, and Sustainable Westport. Click here for more information.

Rhiana Gunn-Wright

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“06880” usually bird dogs new businesses.

But we missed the arrival recently of Birddogs.

The mens’ shorts/pants/polo shirts shop is open in Brooks Corner. It’s their 3rd brick-and-mortar store. The others are in New York City and Short Hills, New Jersey.

Click here for their minimalist website. Or check them out for yourself.

(Photo and hat tip/Stacey Henske)

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Coming soon at the Westport Country Playhouse:

A reading of the comedy “Quick Service” as part of the New Works series (June 5, 7 p.m.; meet the playwright and director afterward). All tickets are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

A “Script in Hand” play reading of Agatha Christie’s “The Murder Of Roger Ackroyd” (June 12, 7 p.m.). All tickets are $25. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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A longtime tradition continued this morning.

A group of dads gathered at 5:30 a.m. to install a water slide for Kings Highway Elementary School’s field day.

At 100 feet long and 50 feet wide, that’s no easy task.

Even harder, no doubt, will be wrestling it — big and wet — back into its original packaging.

Great weather for a water slide!

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Sorelle Gallery on Church Lane showcases Daniel Pollera and Michele Poirier-Mozzone, from June 2 through 24.

He focuses on land and seascapes, while she paints soft, fragmented figures from underwater vantage points. Both explore themes of water and light, and the relationship between them.

Click here for more information.

Artwork by Daniel Pollera

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Speaking of art: Around the corner from Sorelle, in Sconset Square, Vanessa Lewis’ recently relocated her Penfield Collective “retail concept” (I’m assuming that means “store”) from Fairfield.

Now there’s a new addition, right outside.

Donna Forma’s sculpture has been installed at the door. Made of laminated walnut, it has been treated to become weather resistant.

The new artwork is all in the family. Lewis is Forma’s daughter.

Donna Forma’s sculpture.

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Summer is near. Which means more and more beachgoers will see sights like this — today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

Horseshoe crabs are fascinating creatures. Scary, ugly, primordial, they send a strong message: “Stay away. This is our beach. We were here first.”

We walk warily past them.

Unless you’re a kid. In which case you pick them up, with a combination of courage and awe.

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And finally … Rolf Harris, the Australian singer whose “Tie Me Kangaroo  Down, Sport” was a huge novelty hit, but whose long career on British television ended when he was convicted of sexually abusing teenage girls — died earlier this month in England. He was 93.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Celebrate Memorial Day weekend the traditional way: with a contribution to “06880.” Please click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Library, Local business, Transportation, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Pops Concert, Pink Aid, Pequot Library …

Posted on May 24, 2023 | 8 comments

One of Westport’s newest — but quick-selling-out — traditions is the Westport Public Schools’ Pops Concert.

The Levitt Pavilion event — featuring the Staples High School Symphonic Orchestra and Band, Jazz Ensemble, Choralaires and other small ensembles — returns Friday, June 9 (7 p.m.). The host is Westport’s own music and media maestro, David Pogue.

Tickets will be available at staplesmusic.org beginning at 9 a.m. on May 31. They’re first-come, first-served — and free! (A donation of $15 per ticket is suggested, to help offset the concert’s production costs.)

The Levitt lawn opens at 5:30 p.m. BYO chair — but food trucks will be there for picnickers.

2022 Pops Concert. (Photo/Allison Ginzburg)

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The use of automated cameras to enforce speed limit and red light violations in Connecticut moved closer to reality yesterday.

The House voted 104-46 in favor. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Enforcement would be limited to school zones, pedestrian safety zones and other locations approved by the Office of State Traffic Administration. Speeders would have to go at least 10 miles per hour over the limit to get an automated ticket.

Fines would not surpass $50 for a first offense, $75 for a second offense. Revenues would go to municipalities, to be used for traffic-related expenses.

Click here for the full story, on Connecticut Mirror.

Red light traffic camera.

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Pulitzer Prize finalist Nicholas Dawidoff is the main attraction tomorrow night at the Westport Library

He’ll join former Assistant US Attorney Althea Seaborn to talk about his book The Other Side of Prospect: A Story of Violence, Injustice, and the American City (Thursday, May 25, 7 p.m.).

He will be in conversation with Norwalk Community College Professor and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Althea Seaborn.

Dawidoff spent 8 years researching and writing in his hometown of New Haven. Urban decay, white flight and redlining helped contribute to the transformation of Newhallville. Dawidoff makes these symptoms of “racist neglect” vividly clear.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

Nicholas Dawidoff

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Breast cancer is no laughing matter.

But Pink Aid — the organization offering support and financial assistance to patients during treatment, and their families — will benefit from a night of comedy next month.

The event is June 1 (7 p.m., Chabad of Westport). Featured comedians include Cody Marino, Beau McDowell, Andrew Ginsburg and Nick Scopoletti. Tickets ($75 each) include 2 drinks, popcorn and candy. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Twenty soon-to-graduate high school rowers were honored for their hard work, persistence and commitment Monday, by the Saugatuck Rowing Club. Nine live in Westport.

Saugatuck Rowing Club seniors from Staples High School (from left): Elisabeth Chadwick, Janna Moore, Dylan Halky, Wyatt Dodge, Jesse Herman, Luke Miller, Cooper Weyers, and Vincent Penna all attend Staples. Andrew Bacro (not pictured) attends the Pierrepont School,

The seniors and other teammates competed last weekend to qualify for Young Nationals in Sarasota, Florida in June.

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First Five Guys closed (for renovations?).

Now there’s a “For Lease” sign in front of Shake Shack.

Maybe Big Top or Chubby Lane’s can come back …

(Hat tip: Bruce Schneider)

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Robin Tauck returned to the University of Vermont on Sunday. This time, the 1977 graduate gave the commencement address at graduation ceremonies for the Grossman School of Business.

Robin is a longtime Westporter. She is a 3rd-generation oo-owner and former president and CEO of Tauck Inc., the luxury travel company started by her grandfather in 1925, and headquartered for many years here.

She is a business graduate of UVM, Stanford University’s Executive Business Program, and the University of Cambridge Leaders Sustainability Program.

She was recently honored at the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame in Hartford, for her career in “Global Impact.”

Robin Tauck

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The Pequot Library is not actually in Westport.

But with so many local connections, it might as well be.

For example, Westporter Coke Anne Wilcox is president of the board of trustees. Caroline Calder serves as vice president, while Belinda Shepard and Richard “Deej” Webb are both trustees.

Westport poet laureate/Westport Writers’ Workshop instructor Jessie McEntee handles marketing and communications at Pequot.

Alex Heekin works in development. Jane Manners is the beloved children’s Librarian. Leslie Mahtani, also a librarian, works at the circulation desk.

Though the Pequot Library receives 20% of its annual funding from the town of Fairfield, it must raise the other 80% on its own.

One method: an annual Southport Garden Stroll. This year’s event — a behind-closed-gates peek at 8 stunning outdoor space — is June 2. Click here for tickets, and more information.

One more Westport tie-in: TV host/author/lifestyle expert/realtor Mar Jennings hosts the June 1 Champagne & Canapé kickoff party.

Pequot Library.

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A new farm dinner — an “intimate, bourbon-inspired” event — has been added to the Wakeman Town Farm menu.

It’s July 12. But, WTF notes, it makes a great Fathers Day gift.

Chef Lamour Workman promises that each course will be paired with a specialty bourbon, created by Bridgeport’s Fifth State Distillery.

Tickets are $125 each. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

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Longtime Westporter Sophia Makowski, most recently of Wallingford, died peacefully on Saturday.

The 9th child of 10, and a “second mother” to several family members, Sophie is remembered for her “incredible endurance, priceless humor, sharp wit, and unending support of her loved ones.” Loved by all who met her.

Sophia’s funeral is tomorrow (Thursday, May 25, 11 a.m., Assumption Church). Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery, Greens Farms Road.

Click here to leave online condolences. Contributions in Sophia’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Sophia Makowski

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Thanksgiving is a solid 6 months away.

So this turkey figured it was safe to strut his stuff.

Luisa Francoeur took his “Westport … Naturally” photo on Broadview Road, during her morning walk.

(Photo/Luisa Francoeur)

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And finally … Linda Lewis died earlier this month, near London. She was 72.

I never heard of her. But the New York Times took note. She was “a critically acclaimed soul singer and songwriter whose pyrotechnic voice propelled four Top 10 singles as a solo artist in her native Britain and led to work as a backup vocalist on acclaimed albums by stars like David Bowie, Cat Stevens and Rod Stewart.”

The newspaper added: “Ms. Lewis drew raves for her soaring five-octave vocal range and impressed listeners with her genre-hopping instincts, drawing from folk, R&B, rock, reggae, pop and — with more than a nudge from label executives — disco.”

Click here for the full obituary. And enjoy (as I did) this sampling of her work:

(If you get a ticket to the Westport Pops Concert, thank “06880.” You can say thanks with a contribution, too — just click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Yankee Doodle Fair, Wakeman Farm Stand, Emmy Squared …

Posted on May 23, 2023 | 8 comments

Okay, now we know summer is just around the corner.

The Westport Woman’s Club has announced the dates for the Yankee Doodle Fair.

The decades-in-fact-almost-a-century-old tradition returns Fathers Day weekend. From Thursday, June 15 through Sunday, June 18, the grounds and parking lot on Imperial Avenue will transform from a staid club into a carnival, for “kids” of all ages.

Profits support charities throughout Fairfield County, need-based scholarships to Staples High School students, and the Woman’s Club food closet.

Among the rides: a carousel, Flying Dumbo, Dizzy Dragon, Frog Hopper, Scrambler, Cliff Hanger, Zero Gravity and Expo Wheel. Unlimited ride wristbands make things easy (and inexpensive). 

Entertainment includes rock and country/bluegrass bands. There are raffle prizes and a “take a chance” tent. 

Plus of course a food court with hamburgers, hot dogs, Greek food, Good Humor ice cream, baked goods — and beer and wine.

Last year, proceeds helped the WWC fund $300,000 for a new Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services ambulance.

The greatest show on earth (or at least, in Westport). (Photo/Lee Scharfstein)

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Another sign of summer: The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand opens June 10.

Running every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October 28, the stand features fresh organic produce and flower bouquets from the Farm, WTF honey and logo wear, plus local artisanal products like organic coffee, bread, pastries, extra virgin olive oils, gourmet balsamic vinegars and salsas.

BMW of Darien  is the summer and fall sponsor of the Wakeman Town Farm farm stand. The dealership will also serve as a lead sponsor of WTF’s annual fundraiser, Harvest Fest.

The Wakeman Town Farm farm stand.

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Speaking of food: Westport pizza lovers (perhaps that’s a redundant phrase) salivated at news that Emmy Squared is coming to town.

The Brooklyn-based restaurant is known for its “Detroit-style pizza”: square, crisp bottom, fluffy dough, cheesy crust and sauce strpes.

Their double-stack burger — served on a pretzel bun — was named one of the “20 Best Burgers in New York” by The Infatuation.

There are 8 location in New York, Nashville, Philadelphia, Washington and Louisville. Number 9 will be …

… at the site of the now-closed Amis Trattoria.

That’s the center-of-town location next to Anthropologie, where Church Lane meets the Post Road near Main Street.

No word yet on an opening. The salivation continues.

Pizzas from Emmy Squared.

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gorjana comes to 74 Main Street on June 16.

And if you don’t know — as I did not — what is replacing the Sunglass Hut, read this breathless press release from the Laguna Beach-based jewelry brand (which for some reason does not use a capital letter in its name):

“When gorjana Westport officially opens its doors, shoppers will be immersed in a welcoming coastal bungalow inspired by co-founders Gorjana Reidel and Jason Griffin Reidel’s Southern California roots. Light wood finishes, a crystal quartz chandelier, three sparkling window pendants and a hand-dipped Lauren Williams Tapestry inspired by the iconic Laguna Beach coastline create the perfect backdrop to gorjana’s elevated yet effortless designs.

“Located in a beautifully restored historic building along bustling Main Street, the store will bring together the best of Southern California with the charming history of Westport right in the heart of the coastal city. gorjana Westport is the perfect shopping destination for out-of-towners and locals alike.

This is gorjana’s 49th location, but only the second in Connecticut. The first was in Greenwich.

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Two weeks ago, a college student named Emily posted a TikTok. She wanted to give a hand-painted romantic gift to a classmate she had a crush on, but needed her followers to give her confidence.

@wayn3sw0r1d

both of our love languages are gift giving, and she’s also extremely crafty, so no i dont think this is too much #fyp#foryou#wlw#wlwtiktok help

♬ original sound – wayn3sw0r1d

The video went viral, with over a million views. She got more validation than she ever dreamed of.

Five days later, she shared an update. The woman she gave the gift to loved it.

Now they’re dating.

The woman is Samantha Webster — a 2021 Staples High School graduate.

As for Sam, she texted her parents that she had a new girlfriend.

And, she said, a million people knew before her parents did.

@wayn3sw0r1d

Replying to @Mikala Walker the highly anticipated cupdate: I didnt get a chance to package it up all cute, but I was too excited I couldn’t wait any longer💛🌼#fyp#foryou#wlw#wlwtiktok#dandelions

♬ Dandelions (Originally Performed by Ruth B.) – Piano Karaoke Version – Sing2Piano

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MoCA Westport just hired its first-ever director of performing arts.

Kristen Young knows MoCA well. She’s worked there for 3 years, most recently as its music associate. She created the Music at MoCA concert series, bringing a diverse range of emerging and established artists to the museum.

In her expanded role Young will curate all performing arts experiences, fostering collaborations with music programs across the region, and providing music education opportunities.

Young holds a master’s in violin performance and a graduate certificate in arts management and entrepreneurship from the University of Oklahoma, and a bachelor’s in music management from the University of Delaware.

Kristen Young (Photo/Nina Capozzi Photography)

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Speaking of music: Jazz at the Post favorite Melissa Newman returns this Thursday (May 25; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner begins at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $15 cover; reservations: JazzatthePost@gmail.com).

The Westporter will be joined by guitarist Tony Lombardozzi, bassist Phil Bowler and drummer Bobby Leonard.

Melissa Newman

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Speaking still of the performing arts:

Saugatuck Congregational Church song leader Anthony DeLuco hosts a recital at the church on June 10 (4 p.m.). It’s a fundraiser, to support his attendance at an intensive vocal workshop this summer in Salzburg, Austria.

DeLuco is a young Western Connecticut State University graduate (with many honors and awards). He’s in his second year as a high school teacher.

He’ll play works by Mozart, Schubert, Schumann and more. Donations can be made at the recital or by clicking on this GoFundMe link.

Anthony DeLuco

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It’s not graffiti, at the Post Road/Main Street intersection.

And they’re not hieroglyphics.

(Photo/Amy Schneider)

They’re markings for utility workers.

But what do all those symbols, arrows and colors mean?

If you know, please click “Comments” below.

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Understated yet colorful landscaping near Saugatuck Shores stands out in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/David Stone)

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And finally … on this day in 1829, Cyrill Demian was granted an Austrian patent for the accordion.

(“06880” is your home for accordion music — and much more. Please click here to support what we do. Thank you!)

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