Posted onJanuary 2, 2025|Comments Off on Roundup: Polar Plunge, Pizza, Post-Ruth Mannes …
Usually, the New Year’s Day Polar Plunge experience involves wading quickly into — and even more quickly out of — Long Island Sound.
This year’s experience was better — as in, warmer. At least, the air was not frigid yesterday.
There were 3 Polar Plunges yesterday, at Compo Beach. All were special experiences — especially the one that raised funds for Experience Camps.
That’s the Westport-based national, no-cost program for grieving children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver. The Polar Plunge celebrated the opening of their newest location, set for KenMont and KenWood Camp in Kent, Connecticut this August.
Missed the Plunge (by mistake, or on purpose)? You can still donate. Just click here.
After 5 years at the Newtown Turnpike institution, Ruth Mannes has stepped down.
MoCA CT is searching for a new executive director.
Durng her tenure, 100,000 visitors have enjoyed 26 exhibitions by artists like Helmet Lang, Anselm Reyle, and Ann Weiner, plus 60 musical performances by Wynton Marsalis, Samara Joy, the Danish String Quartet and others.
MoCA has become the home of the Heida Hermanns International Music Competition, while Camp MoCA and other programs have served 4,000 learners of all ages.
A search committee has begun the process of appointing Mannes’ successor. Questions, nominations and resumes can be sent to careers@mocact.org.
Ruth Mannes (Photo/Kerry Long)
=================================================
Last night marked the final day of Hanukkah. There were plenty of happy faces at Steve and Linda Stein’s house — including this one:
There’s not much time left to get in your car, drive somewhere, buy stuff, wrap it, deliver it, and hope that the recipient enjoys it.
Or, alternatively, to shop online, and hope that — thanks to our complex delivery system — someone else will deliver it wherever it needs to go, while you hope the recipient enjoys it.
Our town’s non-profit environmental education and advocacy organization notes that the holidays are a time of “joy, togetherness — and a lot of waste.”
The average household generates 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and the New Year than at other times of the year. (And as we all know, Westport households are far from “average.”)
Many people feel forced to choose between holiday cheer and sustainable practices, Sustainable Westport says.
But there are alternatives.
They share some ideas to reduce waste, and make the holidays more eco-friendly.
Susatainable Westport’s first recommendation is: “Stop buying more stuff!”
It’s important not only for the planet, they say, but for our own mental health.
Instead, they suggest, share or give “experiences. Meaningful moments and connections are what the holidays are truly about. Plus, by keeping gifts local, you can reduce your environmental impact and help promote our local economy.”
In the spirit of giving, Sustainable Westport shares a few “experiential ideas”:
Take advantage of our arts and cultural scene. Give a MoCA CT membership, and check out an exhibit there. Or catch a show at the Westport Country Playhouse
Sign up for a cooking class or attend a gourmet dinner at Wakeman Town Farm
Make a donation in a friend’s or family member’s name to the Westport Library
Purchase a gift certificate to one of Westport’s great restaurants.
This winter, give the gift of entertainment at the Westporot Country Playhouse.
“The holidays are a time to come together, not consume more,” Sustainable Westport says.
“We hope these ideas help you celebrate the season in a way that’s kinder to the planet — and your spirit.”
Their New Year’s resolution: Offering more tips in 2025.
(“06880” uses no trees or gas to deliver news and ideas, 24/7/365. If you appreciate our sustainable work, please make a tax-deductible gift by clicking here. Thank you!)
Today is the day: the 4th annual “06880”/Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll.
It’s 5 to 7 p.m., on Main Street, plus the parking lots at Elm Street, and all around downtown.
There is something for everyone. For kids, there’s a candy wagon, photos with Santa and the Grinch, face painting, crafts, Buddy the Elf and other Staples Players costumed characters, piglet reindeer, a mailbox for Santa letters … you get the idea.
Plus smores at Nômade, a DJ dance party, kettle corn, hot chocolate, a human snow globe, and a holiday market with artisans, non-profit booths, plus goodies from non-downtowners like Alina’s Cakes, and The Clubhouse.
Don’t forget to bring an unwrapped toy too, for the Westport PAL and Police Department collection.
Plus, nearly 100 stores, restaurants and other businesses offer deals, discounts and giveaways.
Here’s a small sampling: Complimentary nibbles and hot chocolate at stores. Cocktails and Champagne at restaurants. Raffles. Gifts with purchases. 15, 25, 50% off. Free classes.
To see the entire list, click here, then scroll down. See you tonight at the Stroll!
================================================
Westport’s second tree lighting ceremony of the week — the Wakeman Town Farm one — “lit up” a large crowd yesterday.
The Wakeman Town Farm tree …
What started as a Wakeman family tradition has continued for all Westporters.
The Porch and Sweet P Bakery supplied cookies, treats and hot chocolate. The Westport Fire Department kept eye on a bonfire. Greens Farms and Saugatuck Elementary, and Staples High School, musicians played. Awesome Toys handed out gifts.
And 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker — accompanied by Wakeman family member Bill Constantino — did the switch-throwing honors.
… and tree lighters Bill Constantino and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.
The annual Westport Police Department toy drive kicks off today. The joint effot, with the Police Athletic League and Police Benevolent Association, continues tomorrow, and next weekend too.
New, unopened and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders — along with cash, to buy toys — will be collected at Athletic Shoe Factory (1560 Post Road East) Saturdays and Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
You can also drop off unwrapped toys at Police headquarters on Jesup Road (any time), or Awesome Toys & Gifts and The Toy Post, during business hours.
There will be a collection box on Elm Street too, during tonight’s “06880”/ Westport Downtown Association Holiday Stroll (5 to 7 p.m.).
================================================
Some people call next weekend’s Staples High School concert “Candlelight.”
Generous audience members will also make it “Can-Delight.”
On Friday and Saturday, the Tri-M National Music Honor Society is sponsoring a canned food drive. Collection boxes will be set up in the main lobby.
Concert-goers are invited to bring boxed or bagged stuffing; canned sweet potatoes, vegetables, fruit, tuna, chicken, meat, soup, beef stew and chili; instant mashed potatoes; boxed macaroni and cheese; brownie, cake and pie mix; cranberry sauce; shelf-stable milk and almond milk; hot and cold cereal.
Come on, Candlelight guests. You “can” help our neighbors in need!
The Romanacci team followed up last month’s great “Evening in Rome” 5-course dinner at Old Mill Grocery & Deli with a second, Thursday night.
It was another night for beach neighbors to come together. Old friendships were rekindled and new ones were made, over excellent food and very good wines.
Based on raves for the first 2 dinners, Romanacci’s plans more after the holidays.
Old Mill Grocery’s “Night in Rome” dinner. (Photo/Carol Alexander)
Yesterday’s Roundup item about Staples High School’s Italian Club fundraiser for Centra La Tenda, a community organization serving needy children in Naples, omitted a link.
Click here to donate. Click here, then scroll down to read more about the project.
Several dozen people filled Rizzuto’s last night, for Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport’s annual holiday party.
In keeping with the organization’s mission of helping new and longtime residents connect through common interests and social events, guests ranged from born-and-bred Westporters, to those who moved here this summer.
For more informaiton on Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport, click here.
Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport president Alma Sarelli (2nd from left), and members at last night’s party. (Photo/Dan Woog)
=================================================
Speaking of parties: Non-members are welcome at the upcoming Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce Holiday Party.
It’s this Wednesday (December 11, 5 to 7 p.m., Harvest restaurant). Tickets ($35 for members, $40 for non-members, $5 extra for walk-ins) include one drink. Click here for reservations.
Joyce Thompson — longtime president of the Westport Arts Center — died peacefully at her Weston home, surrounded by her family. She was 90, and had been diagnosed with cancer.
She graduated from Wheaton College, and earned a master’s degree from the University of Bridgeport.
During her tenure as WAC president, the organization restored, improved and maintained Greens Farms Elementary School as a gallery and home for artists. When the town needed the school again, the Arts Center moved to Riverside Avenue, where her participation continued. The WAC was the forerunner of what is now MoCA CT.
Joyce continued her interest in painting while also pursuing sailing and boating. She and her husband David were a familiar sight on Long Island Sound in the sloop Bluejacket and trawler Rambler.
An active member of Saugatuck Harbor Yacht Club, she was also in the Power Squadron. She won a citation for the high number of boats she inspected on their behalf.
She was an avid gardener, and took pride in the restoration and maintenance of her pre-war International style house. Her paintings, especially cloudscapes, are hung with pride by family and friends, there and in other homes.
Married for 66 years, she is survived by her husband; children John of Stratford, Jennifer Van de Graaf (Stephen) of New Canaan (Stephen) and Sarah Marcotte (James) of Los Angeles, and grandchildren Gwen, Owen, Sarah and Rowan.
The family is deeply grateful to her caregivers Jackie Brown and Judith Bryan, who showed empathy and love.
A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held on Saturday, December 14 (10:30 a.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Westport). The service will be livestreamed.
=================================================
Former Westport Emergency Medical Technician Toni Cribari died peacefully on November 26 in Hartford. She was 80.
The Hartford native worked in many roles throughout her life, from waitress and Norwalk Hospital pharmaceutical technician, to EMT.
But, family says, “perhaps her most cherished role was nanny, caring for and nurturing countless children whom she loved as if they were her own.”
An avid music fan, she was known for her “independent spirit, sense of humor, and beauty both inside and out.”
Toni is survived by her husband Ed; son Justin (Morgan), and granddaughter Ophelia. She was predeceased by her sister Denise, and daughters Chitra and Tara.
A graveside service will be held Monday (December 9, 11:00 a.m., Assumption Cemetery). Click here to leave online condolences.
Posted onDecember 5, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: “Sherlock Carol,” Swim Club, Sprinkle The Pig …
Just in time for Christmas, “A Sherlock Carol” returns to the Westport Country Playhouse. It debuted last year, with great success.
The family-friendly holiday production, based on Sherlock Holmes’ “The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle” and “A Christmas Carol,” runs December 17-22.
The plot features characters from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Charles Dickens. Six actors play multiple roles. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Sherlock Holmes (Drew McVety) and Ebenezer Scrooge (Byron St. Cyr) in “A Sherlock Carol.” (Photo/T. Charles Erickson)
The Westport Swim Club — the fun, competitive-technique-packed program that has taught hundreds of kids to swim, to enjoy the water (and, for a good number, join the Staples High School team) — has open spots for 2nd through 8th graders.
Tryouts are set for the Staples pool on Sunday December 8 (10:30 to 11:30 a.m.); Tuesday and Thursday, Deeember 10 and 12 (5:30 to 7 p.m.), and Sunday, December 15 (4 to 5 p.m.).
Click here for more information on the WSC, including its coaching staff, flexible practice sessions and monthly enrollments. Click here for the tryout registration form. Click here for the “06880” back story.
This Sunday (December 8, 4 p.m., Zoom) Cathy Malkin — Westport’s favorite animal communicator, animal Reiki master teacher and practitioner, pet meditation master teacher, and a pet loss and grief counselor — hosts a “Chat Pawty” fundraiser.
Sprinkle — Hammy Faye, in Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building” — and her pig family will be celebrity guests.
Attendees can ask questions of the pigs. Cathy will translate.
It’s free, but also a fundraiser for Pigs Fly Rescue. “Pawty-goers” are encouraged to donate. $10, for example, buys one bale of hay.
PS: Cathy’s last chat pawty, with “Only Murder”’s Winnie in the Bulldog, was a great success. Everyone had fun, and they raised $1,200 for bulldogs in need.
The community is invited to a Christmas Concert of Lessons and Carols (Sunday, December 22, 2 p.m., St. Luke Church).
It features the choirs and instrumentalists of St. Luke and Assumption Churches in Westport, and St. Philip in Norwalk, The children of St. Luke will present a Nativity pageant too.
The concert is free, but free will offerings will be accepted, in support of the St. Luke music ministry.
St. Luke’s pews will be filled for the December 22 concert.
And finally … on this date in 1848, President James K. Polk confirmed that large amounts of gold had been discovered in California. The rush began.
(You don’t need to give “06880” gold. Or silver. But a contribution to help us with our hyper-local, several-times-a-day blog would be golden. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Comments Off on Roundup: “Sherlock Carol,” Swim Club, Sprinkle The Pig …
A reminder: For Thanksgiving, “06880” wants to share some of the things you — our readers — are thankful for.
Please email 06880blog@gmail.com today. Let us know what you’re thankful for this year. (NOTE: Do not post your thanks in the Comments section; just email them to us.)
Big or small; concrete or abstract; individually or as a family; here in town or anywhere else — we want to hear from you. And please let us know whether we can use your name, or if you prefer anonymity.
We’ll post your thankful responses — with our thanks — soon.
A 1941 Saturday Evening Post cover, by Westport artist Stevan Dohanos — 83 years ago.
================================================
A relatively new, but very fun tradition, continues: The Wakeman Town Farm holiday tree lighting takes place December 6 (4:30 p.m.).
The family event includes cookies, treats and hot chocolate courtesy of The Porch and Sweet P Bakery, and a bonfire.
The tree will be lit by 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Bill Constantino, a Wakeman family member.
The tree lighting is also a chance to give back. WTF will collect “pre-loved” Legos, as a part of Sustainable Westport’s project.
There”s a collection too of unwrapped toys for the annual Al’s Angels drive. And members of Staples’ AWARE organization are raising money for women and teens in need, through a bake sale.
But 159 Main — the successor to Rye Ridge Deli, which took over from Oscar’s — posted a note on its door saying, “We are closing for a few days to carry out necessary upgrades.
“It is our priority to continue to serve you in the best possible way during this time. We will be reachable through our platforms.”
A QR code brought up a form to submit an email address. A phone number was also listed, but a call to it went unanswered.
Eric Bosch writes: “If you walk along the cement sidewalk toward the canons on Compo’s South Beach, you can now see the remnants of a very old groin/jetty coming up out of the sand.
“These are easily seen at Burying Hill Beach, where there are 3 or 4 rows of them (they stick 4-8 inches above the sand there). Beach groins help deposit sands onto the beach, preventing erosion.
“The one in this photo clearly did its job for years, as it was completely covered up until recently. My guess is that the 8.8-foot exceptionally high tides that we just experienced with the full moon exposed this when the waters receded.”
Newly exposed groin/jetty at Compo Beach. (Photo/Eric Bosch)
=================================================
Another new appearance: this rock, painted recently on Easton Road between Coleytown Road and North Avenue.
(Photo/Sandy Rothenberg)
If you know the back story, click “Comments” below. If you dont: It will remain just another Westport mystery.
Westporter Joanie Gottlieb builds, redesigns and customizes dollhouses.
Joanie Gottlieb with her farmhouse dollhouse …
… and the interior.
And similar structures.
Right now, she’s working on a commission from a Manhattan client. He wanted a townhouse — not a dollhouse — complete with a rooftop bar and lounge, oirginal paintings, and a music room with a keyboard, guitar, amps and drums.
The music room, in Joanie Gottlieb’s “townhouse.”
Each one takes 2 months to complete. For more information, email joaniegottlieb52@gmail.com. (Hat tip: Toni Simonetti)
================================================
Longtime Westport resident Mary Becker died last Wednesday, at home. She was 95.
The New York City native attended Sarah Lawrence College. She met her future husband Lester at a resort hotel in the Catskills. They married in 1951, and moved to Westport in 1963.
After raising 2 children, Mary turned her passion for global travel into a career. She spent many years as a travel agent.
Mary was an avid and skilled knitter, creating works and gifts that were treasured by family and friends. She also had a deep love for her garden, and for music, theatre and reading. She also doted on a long line of dogs and cats, the last of which, Archie, stayed curled up on her bed through her final days.
Mary was deeply involved in her children’s lives. She was well known and loved by the many classmates and friends who came through their home over the years, and she maintained close relationships with many throughout her life.
She is survived by her husband of almost 73 years; daughter Ann Moore of New York City; son Michael (Christine) of Los Angeles; sister Eve Lubin of Los Angeles and grandson Ellis Becker of Madison, Wisconsin.
Her family says, “Mary’s life was marked by courage and compassion, and in both life and death, she faced each moment with grace and supreme bravery. Her infectious energy, positivity and joy were an inspiration to all who knew her.”
A gathering for family and friends will be held at a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mary’s honor to either rhe Westport Country Playhouse or the Pet Animal Welfare Society.
Mary Becker
==============================================
As birds fly south for the winter, we see empty nests all around town.
Wasps don’t migrate. But they too leave empty nests.
Johanna Keyser Rossi spotted this one — today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — at the YMCA.
And finally … “Alice’s Restaurant” — Arlo Guthrie’s meandering, absurd — and pretty much true — song about littering, the police and the military draft has been a Thanksgiving staple since its release in 1967.
That’s because the events happened — the true ones, anyone — at a Thanksgiving dinner attended by (among others) Guthrie, a student at the Stockbridge School (and son of Woody), where Alice Brock was a librarian.
Alice — who also owned a restaurant (called not Alice’s, but the Back Room (along with a deconsecrated church) — died last Thursday, in Wellfleet, Massachusetts.
Fittingly, it was a week before Thanksgiving. She was 83, and suffered from chronic pulmonary obstructive disease. Click here for a full obituary.
(You can get anything you want on “06880.” Well, so long as there’s a Westport hook. Except for our song of the day. That’s random. You can also click here to support this hyper-local blog. We thank you!)
Matt Davies — the Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist (and 1985 Staples High School graduate) — headlines this year’s TEA Talk.
The annual Westport Arts Advisory Committee event is always a thoughtful conversation featuring thinkers, educators and artists.
This year’s TEA Talk — set for the Westport Library on Sunday, November 17 (2 p.m.) — explores “Humor in the Arts: When a Ha-ha is a No-no.”
Davies and his fellow panelists (writer/actor/comedian Olivia Levine, satirical fine artist Norm Siegel, and playwright/screenwriter Frederick Stroppel) will discuss the impact of social media on humor and satire; the challenges of balancing humor with respect and inclusivity; the role of irony and absurdity in contemporary art, and the changing nature of audience expectations and reactions.
WAAC co-chair Nancy Diamond moderates the sure-to-be-insightful event. Click here to register.
Matt Davies’ post-election cartoon. (Copyright Newsday)
Staples High School students Aidan Lapatine and Logan Noorily are.
And they’re doing something about it.
They run the Students Demand Action club. Today (Saturday, November 9, noon to 3 p.m.) they’ll give out free gun locks, at the Post Road East/Main Street corner (near Starbucks, across from Fred).
Any Artists Collective of Westport show is great (and fun).
The next one will is also practical. Over 100 works — in a wide variety of styles, genres and materials — will be shown.
And sold. They make great holiday gifts. And all are 12″ x 12″, making them easy to ship.
The show runs from Thursday, November 21 through Sunday, November 24 (noon to 4 p.m., Sheffer Barn at Westport Country Playhouse). A reception on Wednesday, November 20 (6 to 8 p.m.) is a great chance to meet the artists, and enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres.
==============================================
For nearly 50 years, quietly — but fiercely — Bloodroot has raised consciousnesses, fought for women’s rights, and served great food on a side street near the water in Bridgeport.
Now, the institution — co-founded by longtime Westporter, 89-year-old Selma Miriam — is getting the film treatment it deserves.
“A Culinary Uprising: The Story of Bloodroot” premieres tomorrow (Sunday, November 10, United Congregational Church, 2200 North Avenue, Bridgeport). The 80-minute documentary will screen twice, at 5 and 7 p.m.
Speaking of great food: Yesterday’s Roundup story on Wakeman Town Farms’ “Thanksgiving Pies for Good” — the sale benefiting CTFoodShares — did not include a link to purchase the apple, apple crumb, blueberry, blueberry crumb, cherry, cherry crumb and pumpkin delights. (Or the à la mode ice cream that’s also on sale.)
So: Click here to order. The deadline is noon on November 22.
Tomorrow (Sunday, November 10, 1 p.m., Room 210), the Westport Library hosts an “illuminating” event.
The public is invited to use one of their state-of-the-art 3D printers to create solar-powered lanterns for Open Doors, a homeless shelter in Norwalk.
No experience is needed, to help provide lighting solution for unhoused people, improving their safety and well-being during nighttime hours.
Created and designed by Staples High School sophomore Rohan Sareen and senior Shreyas Gorre, the lanterns use lights, wires, batteries and solar panels for sustainable illumination.
Shreyas Gorre and Rohan Sareen, with their solar-powered lanterns.
Despite the rise of the internet, Consumer Reports continues to be the gold standard for product reviews.
This past week, the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston brought CR experts Ellen Kunes, Barrie Rosen and Jen Shecter to the Westport Library for an inside look at those reviews.
Click below for a video of the informative and engaging presentation.
=================================================
A celebration of the life of Lis Comm — the longtime Staples High School English teacher and town-wide director of language arts, who died in August — will be held this Thursday (November 14, 3 p.m., Westport Woman’s Club).
Her husband and fellow Staples educator, Frank Corbo, invites Lis’ many former colleagues, students and parents to the ceremony.
Lis Comm
In addition, a celebration of the life of Dan Szymczak — the 1996 Staples High School graduate who died last week — is set for Sunday, November 17 (3 to 8 p.m., 1920 Bar & Bistro, 2 Wilton Avenue, Norwalk). The public is invited.
Dan Szymczak
=================================================
Callie Jo Meehan died peacefully at her Westport home, after a lengthy illness. She was 58.
Raised in the small town of Hazen, North Dakota, Callie took part in nearly every activity available. She enjoyed sports, music, theater and civics, as well as the family farm tradition of butchering and sausage-making each fall.
At Harvard University she participated in cheerleading and softball, and earned a varsity letter playing volleyball.
Following graduation Callie began a career in banking in Minneapolis and Philadelphia. She retired to focus on her family. They moved to Charlotte and Dallas, before settling in Westport in 2005.
She participated in the Junior League of Philadelphia, Charlotte and Dallas, and bible studies. She attended services at Saugatuck Congregational Church.
Callie is survived by her husband John; their children Grace, Claire and Peter; son-in-law Tate Johnson; parents Harvey and Kathy Huber, and sisters Christie Obenauer and Stephanie Huber.
The Meehan family thanks the many friends and caregivers who supported and assisted Callie and her family during her illness.
A “Red Flag” warning is in effect through 6 p.m. tonight. It’s issued during dangerous fire conditions due to strong winds, low humidity and warm temperatures.
Any fire may spread quickly, and possibly out of control.
The Westport Fire Department says that outdoor fires are prohibited; cigarettes should be disposed of responsibility, and the public should call 911 immediately in the case of fire.
=================================================
AP has called the Pennsylvania Senate race for David McCormick.
The Republican ousted 3-term incumbent Democrat Bob Casey, after a campaign in which McCormick’s residency was scrutinized.
The former Bridgewater CEO — born and raised near Pittsburgh — owns a home on Beachside Avenue. Critics claimed that is where he spent most of his time, including during the early days of the campaign.
This year’s contest was the second most expensive race in the country.
Senator-elect David McCormick
=================================================
Like many Westporters, Carl Addison Swanson has noticed the 16 new signs (with blinking lights) (and other features) on Cross Highway, between North Avenue and Bayberry Lane.
There are plenty of places to get great Thanksgiving pies.
One of them includes a special treat: Every one you buy helps fight hunger.
Wakeman Town Farms’ “Thanksgiving Pies for Good” — a collaboration with Earth Animal’s Mitten Project — benefits CTFoodShares.
This year’s sale features freshly baked 9-inch pies: apple, apple crumb, blueberry, blueberry crumb, cherry, cherry crumb, and pumpkin. All are from Oronoque Farms.
Want something extra (and an extra helping of goodness for others)? Make your order à la mode, with Madagascar vanilla or bourbon brown sugar from Lindsay’s Handmade Ice Cream.
Pies are $20 each; ice cream is $20 per pint. Click here to order. The deadline is noon on November 22.
Pickup is Monday, November 25, 4 to 7 p.m. only at Wakeman Town Farm. Pies that are not picked up will be donated to local food pantries.
As for that other all-American food — pizza — Riko’s celebrates their arrival in Westport this Saturday (November 9, 2 to 4 p.m.), with a free festival.
The new restaurant — replacing Mystic Market (and before that, Blu Parrot, Jasmine and the Arrow restaurant) on Charles Street, opposite the railroad station parking lot and Luciano Park — will offer a bouncy house, face painting, temporary tattoos, balloon twisting, a photo booth and more.
Among the capital projects proposed for Westport: repairing the pedestrian bridge to Compo Cove, and the tidal gates there.
Yesterday, nearly half of the Representative Town Meeting took a field trip to the site, accessible only by a pedestrian bridge.
Department of Public Works director Pete Ratkiewich led the excursion. Last night, the appropriation was discussed at a meeting of the RTM’s Finance, Public Works and Environment Committees.
On Tuesday, the full body is the final vote on the $5.58 million request. It was approved unanimously Wednesday night by the Board of Finance.
RTM members on the Compo Cove pedestrian bridge. Moderator Jeff Wieser is at the far left. (Photo/Matt Murray)
Speaking of the Mill Pond, Larry Hoy sends this photo:
He writes: “A bucolic scene. But is it me, or has the cute little oyster farm at Old Mill turned into a full-blown industrial operation with 9 workers, generators and heavy equipment on several barges, harvesting and cleaning oysters to be sold to restaurants?
“I’m aware of the King’s Grant for the Mill Pond and parts of Long Island Sound here. But does that allow this level of noisy and questionably clean production to be done in what is essentially a residential neighborhood?
“The quiet walks on the Mill Pond bridge aren’t so peaceful and beautiful.”
“Martha” — R.J. Cutler’s documentary about the much-admired yet very controversial lifestyle guru/businesswoman/TV personality — is now on Netflix, after a series of film festival screenings.
Dave Briggs watched it, and caught a couple of references to her Westport years.
She calls it “the furthest commuting town from New York.”
As for Turkey Hill — the name she gave her home and garden on the road of the same name — “we had to have (it), to fix it up …. If I hadn’t had Turkey Hill I wouldn’t be me, right now. I would have been somebody else. I just wouldn’t have been Martha Stewart, homemaker.”
She also discusses her husband’s — and her own — infidelities during their marriage here.
So what does Martha think of “Martha”? Click here.
The sky’s the limit for the Westport Astronomical Society’s 2025 calendar.
It’s filled with great photos from amateur astro-photographers Michael Southam, Jasper Southam, Regina Olshan, Carol Quinn, Franco Fellah, Stuart Stakoff, Kurt Zeppetello, Celia Campbell-Mohn, Dana Weisbrot, Carl Lancaster, Phil Harrington, Louis Tancredi, Dr. Steven Labkoff and
The Westport Astronomical Society’s amateur astrophotographers found the best photons again this year with offerings from WAS members Michael Southam, Jasper Southam, Regina Olshan, Carol Quinn, Franco Fellah, Stuart Stakoff, Kurt Zeppetello, Celia Campbell-Mohn, Dana Weisbrot, Carl Lancaster, Phil Harrington, Louis Tancredi, Dr. Steven Labkoff and WAS president Shannon Calvert — plus daily astronomical data.
The cost is $20 for members, $25 for non-members. Shipping is $5 for 1-2 calendars, $10 for 3-5. Email kathy@was-ct.org; include your mailing address, and number of calendars requested. An invoice will be emailed back to you.
If you’ve been thinking, “Westport is a pretty great town, but what we really need is another nail spa”: Your prayers have been answered.
The oddly named Monday Nail Spa will move into the vacant space next to the Westport Post Office.
Probably not Monday. But soon.
(Photo/Molly Alger)
================================================
STAR Lighting the Way has a new president: Westporter Doree Levy.
At the recent gala, she shared her vision for the future of the non-profit, which empowers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families.
Doree — a longtime STAR advocate — pledged to “do everything in my power to ensure that STAR will be there to watch over the young and the old, giving them the care and quality of life they deserve.”
New STAR president Doree Levy and her husband Bob are staunch supporters of the organization. (Photo/Miggs Burroughs)
=================================================
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image is a gorgeous view of Winslow Park.
Photographer Mark Mathias calls it “a two-fer. First, regardless of one’s political leanings, voting for dogs is fun.
“Second, earlier this week the town mowed the big hill. All we need now is a good dumping of snow. An entire crop of kids with sleds will magically appear.”
(Photo/Mark Mathias)
=================================================
And finally … in honor of Westport’s favorite lifestyle guru:
(If you like this “taste” of Westport, please click here to support our work.)
A reader wrote: “What is the status of capital improvements at Longshore?
“With pickleball one of the nation’s fastest growing sports, Westport is clearly behind the times. We have only 2 courts at the beach, 2 at Saugatuck Elementary School (which can only be used when school is out), and 4 courts that are not in good shape at Town Farms.”
I asked Rick Giunta, Westport Parks & Recreation Department deputy director, for an update. He says:
“We’re excited to begin the process of the Longshore Capital Improvement Plan.
“Late last week, an RFP was issued for architectural and engineering services for the design and permitting of a new parks maintenance facility within Longshore Club Park.
“Once the current maintenance facility has been relocated, it paves the way to tackle other projects within the Capital Improvement Plan, including the addition of pickleball courts.
“As this process may take several years, there have been discussions to investigate the possibility of adding 2 pickleball courts to Compo Beach in the near term. We’re looking at issuing an RFP soon for this purpose.
“Currently, in addition to the 2 pickleball courts at Compo Beach, 4 will be painted on the tennis courts at Doubleday as well as 4 currently painted on the courts at Town Farms.”
Pickleball courts at Compo Beach. (Photo/DinkinEsh Fotografix)
=================================================
The dog days of autumn continue (see yesterday’s Roundup for a leashed/ unleashed debate about Compo Beach).
A reader writes: “I’m a long-time Westport resident in my early 70s, who enjoys lovely off-season walks at Compo Beach. Although reasonably spry, my replacement body parts makes me cognizant of potential obstacles.
“The boardwalk, pavilion and playground are now overrun with dogs, particularly on weekends. While attempting to negotiate the boardwalk 2 weekends ago, within 20 minutes, I took photos of 20 dogs on the walkway, on retractable leashes (fully extended), or entirely off leash.
“I had the dubious fortune to see a dog defecate at the entrance to the playground. I told the owners that was beyond inappropriate. They picked up most of the poop and said, ‘no big deal.'”
“The congestion caused by the massive disregard for civilian traffic makes the supposed off limits areas very difficult to navigate.
“I went to Parks & Rec, and was told ‘there’s no enforcement,’ with no staff or resource to provide guidance, warnings, or tickets. I was told ‘call the selectwoman’s office,’ which is humorous.
“Why have sane and reasonable guidelines to share the beach, without some effort to control the overreach of dog owners?
“I’ll end my diatribe by saying that we love dogs, enjoy babysitting for our son’s beloved dog so, this is not a case of a disgruntled ‘get off my lawn’ crankpot. Just a resident who wishes safe access to our beloved beach.”
Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk. (Photo/Carm Roda)
As executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce and Representative Town Meeting from District 1, Matthew Mandell has followed closely the discussions about renovating the Saugatuck River railroad bridge — and the pedestrian walkway next to it.
He says: “On Monday night, the state Department of Transportation held a Zoom call regarding a second project to extend the lifespan of the Saugatuck River train bridge, prior to the full rebuild slated for 2035.
“On a call in April, they outlined work to be done on the mechanical lifts and electrical needed to run them. They said there might be sporadic closures of the walkway to bring in and stage the machinery, but nothing major. Their goal was not to impede the walkway.
“This new call was about work on the 2 towers on either side of the span. The ladders that go up, the platforms for rest climbing and staging, and the guy wires are in terrible shape and need to be replaced.
“This work will be done in 2025. They made it very clear, after stating it and then answering my question to confirm, that the walkway over the bridge will not be impacted. A scaffold will be placed at the end of Ferry Lane East to ensure safe pedestrian passage.
“Work will mostly be done at night. Lights will be trained on the work, and not disturb the neighborhood. Hat tip to RTM member Chris Tait for asking about the lighting.”
Saugatuck River railroad bridge — and the pedestrian walkway. (Photo/John Videler for Videler Photography)
=================================================
It’s a busy fall at Wakeman Town Farm.
And there’s something for everyone, from tots to retirees. Offerings include:
Learn to Compost with Alice Ely (October 28, 7:30 p.m.)
Fall Pumpkin Centerpiece Workshop (October 29, 6:30 p.m.)
Farm Sessions for Neuro-diverse Youth (November 2, 9, 16; ages 3-10, 9 to 9:45 a.m.; ages 11+, 10 to 10:45 a.m.)
Election Day Camp (November 5, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
Dahlia Workshop (November 9, 12 p.m.)
Fall Cooking, Grades K-2 (Mondays, November 18 through December 16, 4:15 to 5:30 p.m.)
Fall Flavors with Laura Weinman (November 19, 6:30 to 9 p.m.; $110 per person, BYOB)
Autumn Bits & Delights Cooking. Grades 2-6 (Wednesdays, November 20 through December 18, 4:15 to 5:30 p.m.)
Appetizers and Book Signing with Chef Alison Milwe Grace (December 3, 7 to 8:30 p.m.; $75, includes cookbook).
Click here for more information, and registration.
Attention, non-profits looking for space in a community-focused co-op.
Blau House & Gardens — the dramatic mid-century home off Bayberry lane surrounded by lush gardens and nature — is seeking 1 to 3 non-profit tenants, in the arts, culture, horticulture or environmental sectors.
Flexible office, meeting and event spaces are available, including use of the gardens.
Rent is $9,700 a month, plus shared utilities. Other options are available.
Erick Russell — who has the job — gave Westport Rotary Club members an overview of his office.
He also talked about his major goal: to lower costs and give opportunity, security and quality of life to all Connecticut residents.
To help narrow the large wealth gap, Connecticut Baby Bonds invests $3,200 in each low-income baby born in the state. It will be distributed to them when they are between 18 and 30, as capital to start building a secure financial future.
Russell also discussed the importance of investing in affordable housing.
State treasurer Erick Russell (Photo/Ellin Curley)
===============================================
Last weekend, the Head of the Charles Regatta — the Super Bowl of rowing, with 11,000 athletes and 400,000 spectators — hosted the first-ever race made up exclusively of cancer survivors.
Eleven boats from 17 clubs around the world raced.
Among them: the Saugatuck SurviveOARS, out of Saugatuck Rowing club. Theiri pink boat included coxswain Alison Reilly. The Westport resident has coxed the Head of the Charles over 30 times in her career.
The SRC Junior Rowing Program also had a strong showing Sunday at the regatta.
The Saugatuck SurviveOARS, at the Head of the Charls.
The Women’s Youth 8+ took second and fourth place in a category, competing against 90 boats from around the world.
The Junior Rowing Program brought 7 boats and 51 athletes to the regatta.
Fifteen Westport girls were among the 23 SRC medalists. Congratulations to Charlotte Seymour , Sofia Martin, Maddie Speller, Delaney Rose Lundberg, Clementine Kirt, Sophie Cochran, Rylie Cordella, Carolina Proctor, Kate Weitz, Alice Frascella, Mina Leon, Samantha Weitz, Emily Lust, Ashlyn Frey and Olivia Saw, plus Anne Studnicky and Hannah Makmale of Weston.
The Saugatuck Women’s Youth 8+A team (from left): Phoebe Bryan, Sophie Cochran, Hannah Makmale, Clementine Kirt, Madeline Casano, Rose Lundberg, Maddie Speller, Sofia Martin, Charlotte Seymour, Coach Mike O’Hara.
The ESPN chairman and Westport resident will receive the VOICES 2024 Leadership Award November 14, at the New York Athletic Club.
The annual Always Remember Gala is sponsored by Voices Center for Resilience.ESPN’s Mike Greenberg — a former Westporter — is the MC.
Voices Center for Resilience (VOICES) provides long-term support for thousands of people impacted by 9/11, and helps communities prepare for other tragedies.
Pitaro will be recognized for his leadership, devoting ESPN’s time and resources to produce the “Comeback Season” exhibit at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and the television special hosted by Greenberg. Both show how sports united and helped heal the nation after the 2001 terrorist attacks.
Last year, Pitaro was named Innovator of the Year by StartUp Westport.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features Riverside Park.
(Photo/Dan Vener)
Photographer Dan Vener says, “If your glass is half full, this shows someone enjoying a hammock in the park.
“If your glass is half empty, it’s a tree strangler!”
=================================================
And finally … on this date in 1864, the Battle of Westport — the last significant Civil War engagement west of the Mississippi River — ended in a Union victory.
The event — sometimes called “The Gettysburg of the West” — was fought in what is now Kansas City, Missouri. Over 30,000 troops were involved.
It was the turning point of Confederate Major General Sterling Price’s Missouri Expedition, forcing his army to retreat. For the rest of the war, the US Army maintained solid control over most of Missouri.
(“06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” That includes Westport, Missouri. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog — with its global touch — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Old Dominion singer/songwriter/guitarist — with a passel of Country Music Association awards — is a 1997 Staples High School graduate.
Brad was best known there as a soccer player.
But he’s honed his musical craft in the years since. Now — while still a member of Old Dominion — he’s embarked on a solo career.
Backed by a very tight 5-piece band, and hot off the release of his new “Parallel Love” album, Brad delighted a full house at the Levitt Pavilion last night.
It was the group’s first public performance, he said. And his first as a solo artist.
The Levitt was also, he noted, where he first played, with Staples friends Ryan O’Neill and Dan Asher. O’Neill (now known as Ryan Smith) joined him for a final number.
Brad bantered with the audience. Many were long-time Westport friends (and a couple of his old soccer coaches). He gave shout-outs to his mom.
It was a wonderful Westport night, with a big-time entertainer who was nonetheless thrilled to be back home.
Brad Tursi, at the Levitt Pavilion. (Photo/Dan Woog)
It’s late notice. But an event today is worth noting, even with just a few hours to go.
This afternoon (4 p.m.), Mitchells of Westport hosts a benefit for Recovery Community Development. The non-profit offers men and women in 12-step and other addiction economic programs the job skills, supportive housing and social services needed to become productive citizens in Bridgeport and Norwalk.
Guest speaker Craig Melvin — the NBC “Today” News anchor, and a Westport resident — will discuss his own family legacy of addiction and incarceration. He’ll describe the power of transformation, redemption and faith, and explore the challenges facing all dads. (He’s the father of 2 young children.) Click here for tickets.
Tony Kiniry, executive director of Recovery Community Development, spoke about the work his organization does — and previewed today’s event — at Friday’s Sunrise Rotary Club meeting. Bill Mitchell also praised RDC’s work.
Our “06880” blog is “where Westport meets the world.”
And today we’ve got a small-world story, courtesy of Wakeman Town Farm.
The other day, on a random spot on a random island in the out-of-the-way Azores, 2 groups of travelers randomly found each other.
Ashley Constantino — a descendant of the Wakeman family, which for decades owned the Cross Highway farm property — was with one group. Alex Brandfon was with another. He spotted Ashley’s boyfriend’s WTF hoodie.
They chatted, discovered their local connection, and took this photo. WTF!
Speaking of the world: Internationally renowned New York Times photojournalist (and 1991 Staples High School graduate) Lynsey Addario’s new exhibit, “RAW,” opened Friday, at Lyle & King Gallery on Henry Street, in lower Manhattan.
Dave Matlow was at the gallery yesterday. He took photos of Lynsey’s images, which were shot in Afghanistan, Syria, Ukraine, Kenya, Panama and many other countries.
The exhibit runs through November 9.
Lynsey Addario’s work, on display. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
(Fathers! Daughters! And everyone else! If you enjoy “06880,” please click here to help support our work. We rely almost entirely on contributions from readers like you. Thank you.)
Click here to help support “06880” via credit card or PayPal. Any amount is welcome, appreciated — and tax-deductible! Reader contributions keep this blog going. (Alternate methods: Please send a check to “06880”: PO Box 744, Westport, CT 06881. Or use Venmo: @blog06880. Or Zelle: dwoog@optonline.net. Thanks!)
GET THE “06880” APP
The “06880” app (search for it on the Apple or Android store) is the easiest way to get “06880.” Choose notifications: whenever a new post is published, or once or twice a day. Click here for details.
But there are alternatives.
