It’s not just the smell of bratwurst and sausage wafting across Elm Street.
Walden Meats’ grill gets a workout.
Downtown was cooking, as the 8th annual Westoberfest drew hundreds of beer lovers, wine drinkers, little kids, and anyone else looking for all-ages fun.
What’s a Westoberfest without a petting zoo?
The weather was perfect — 80 degrees and sunny — for the Westport Downtown Association’s street fair.
Josh Allen in lederhosen; Helen McAlinden, Huong Belpedio, Annette Norton. All are with the Westport Downtown Association.
The festivities go on until 6 p.m. Prost!
“06880” celebrates with Matt Bannon. The Westporter’s Barn Brew Company offers craft beers and THC-infused beverages. (Photo/Dave Briggs)
“Make your own charcuterie” is a new feature at Westoberfest.
Westport Downtown Association president Maxx Crowley, in the beer tent.
Markus Marty (right) was on hand, with Bike Westport. Riding the stationary bike had a reward: It powered a smoothie.
Westporters — and visitors from Washington — enjoyed the day.
Earlier in the day, a League of Women Voters “Meet the RTM Candidates” session drew plenty of Representative Town Meeting incumbents and hopefuls — and a few voters — to the Westport Library.
Claudia Shaum and Velma Heller welcome candidates and voters. (Photo/Joan Gillman)
The town’s legislative body is non-partisan. There was plenty of good, friendly schmoozing, over coffee and treats.
Candidates, for a variety of offices. (Photo/Joan Gillman)
Scouts from Troops 39/139 were there too, getting out the vote by helping younger kids creat signs.
Unlike the candidates’, these were homemade.
(Photo/Joan Gillman)
Jack Klinge (left), 87, has served on the RTM for nearly 3 decades. Addison Moore (right), 21, is running for a seat. If elected, he would be its youngest member — perhaps the youngest in history.
Another group of attendees. (Photo/Joan Gillman)
The long and the short of it: Russ Burkhardt (center), with Dan Woog and Jimmy Izzo.
A few yards away, the annual Volunteer Fair filled the Trefz Forum. Several dozen non-profits and town organizations were there, inviting attendees to learn more about what they offered.
And to sign up new folks, eager to help.
VFW Post 399, and the American Legion.
Positive Directions, the mental health and substance abuse support and resource center.
Something for everyone. (All photos Dan Woog unless otherwise noted)
Westport’s very active Saturday spills into tonight, with the Westport Country Playhouse gala honoring Nathan Lane and Anne Keefe — and, across town, Earthplace’s Woodside Bash.
The fun continues tomorrow.
Westport Moms’ 5th annual Family Fun Fall Festival (Sunday, 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) includes a ninja wall, pottery making, pumpkin decorating, face painting, a bounce house, games, basketball clinics, chess matches, hair tinsel, a DJ, Mad Science show, character photo ops, pizza and taco food trucks, and more.
There is a ton going on in Westport today. In the words of former 1st selectman Jim Marpe, “If you can’t find something to do here, you’re just not trying.”
Among the activities:
Meet Your RTM Candidates (10 a.m. to noon, Westport Library): Informal chats with the men and women running for our legislative body; coffee, donuts, snacks and art activities for youngsters. Co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters Westport, and “06880.”
Westport Volunteer Fair (11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Westport Library): Dozens of local nonprofit organizations with information tables, and members on hand to promote volunteerism.
Westoberfest (Noon to 6 p.m., Elm Street): Oktoberfest comes to downtown, with raft beers, kids’ activities, music and much more. Purchase tickets online; more expensive on-site. Sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association.
At This Stage (5:30 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse): Gala fundraiser, honoring Nathan Lane and Anne Keefe. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Woodside Bash (7 to 10 p.m., Earthplace): Harvest dinner, open bar, music, line dancing, a fire pit and mechanical bull. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Westoberfest — one of many activities in town today.
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It’s tulip time now — for a beautiful payoff this spring.
Tomorrow (Sunday, October 5, 9 a.m.), volunteers will gather at the entrance to Compo Beach, to continue the annual planting project.
Andrew Colabella has donated 1,500 bulbs. All are welcome to help get them in the ground. Bring a small trowel; Andrew will have power tools.
He hopes to raise money through the Sons of American Legion to continue the tradition. For details, email mshornick@optonline.net.
Andrew Colabella (front, right) joined fellow Representative Town Meeting members in 2023, to plant tulips at the Minute Man Monument.
Earth Animal’s 18th annual Mitten Project is underway.
Once again, the popular local business has set an audacious goal: $80,000, to address hunger in Fairfield County. Last year, Earth Animal and its friends raised $75,737.66.
Once again, they’ll match every dollar raised.
This — due to federal funding cuts — Earth Animal’s partner CT Foodshare needs more help than ever.
There are 3 parts to the Mitten Project.
In November and December, shoppers can support the cause in many ways, including:
Purchasing advent calendars (25 days of giving treats to pups!)
“Shop & Give” promotions in which businesses donate percentages of sales (South Pine Creek Deli, Millie Rae’s, Bel Mondo, McLaughlin, Element50, Eleven11, Pet Pantry, Izzo’s Garden Center, 299 Design Gallery, The Post, Kelli & Crew, Westport Hardware, Scout & Molly’s, Vintage Gardens, La Moda, Capri, Athletic Shoe Factory, Lolli Sutton, Fox Trot Home and more)
Pin-up Fundraiser ($5+ donations fill out a mitten, and will be displayed in Earth Animal’s store windows)
Pies for Good (Wakeman Town Farm offers homemade apple, apple crumb, blueberry, blueberry crumb, cherry, cherry crumb and pumpkin pie, plus homemade ice cream; $25 per pie, $10 per pint; pre-order here (November 3-21).
Wreaths for Good (November 29, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.): Holiday wreath fundraiser, and a special appearance by Santa.
NASA is shut down. But the Westport Observatory is wide open.
The Westport Astronomical Society invites everyone to visit tonight (Saturday, October 4, 8 p.m.), to celebrate International Observe the Moon Night.
The annual event encourages everyone on Earth to observe, learn about, and celebrate the Moon together.
At the Bayberry Lane site, visitors can see the 10 1/2-day, 80% illuminated waxing gibbous moon (and other stuff) through a number of telescopes. (Bonus view: Saturn.)
There’s a lot going on at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399.
And you don’t have to be a veteran to take part. All are welcome!
Mark your calendars for:
Comedy Night (October 17, 8 p.m.; $20): Four comedians will keep you laughing.
Chili Cookoff (October 18, 6 p.m.; $25). Benefit for Westport Police Department, Westport Fire Department, Westport Emergency Medical Services, and veterans.
Veterans’ luncheon (October 23, 11 a.m.). An ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned. Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.
Blues party: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Mark Naftalin and friends (November 1, 7:30 p.m.; $15).
Plus: Sunday specials during NFL football games: $5 shots, $6 drafts.
Questions about any of these events? Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, or call 203-227-6796. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)
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There’s also a lot this month at MoCA CT. For example:
Staples High School senior Myla Saperstein is the Westport Book Shop’s guest exhibitor this month.
She is showing photos from some of her favorite places around the world, from the beaches of Westport to the shores of Cabo San Lucas. Her work highlights the sky in different lights and colors. All works are available for purchase.
Speaking of great photos: Our celebration of dogs returning to Compo Beach — the annual October 1 event — continues, with this peaceful image by Nicola Sharian:
And finally … thinking of tomorrow’s tulip-planting event (story above):
(Another weekend, another day packed with a news-you-can-use Roundup. If you enjoy this daily feature — or any other on “06880” — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Posted onSeptember 7, 2025|Comments Off on Westoberfest Returns October 4. We’ll Drink To That!
Oktoberfest: It’s not just for Germans with huge steins anymore.
The 8th Annual Westoberfest Craft Beer & Family Fall Festival returns to Elm Street in downtown Westport on Saturday, October 4. The fun runs from 12 to 6 p.m., with the tasting tent open from 1-5. The sponsor once again is the Westport Downtown Association.
Like a true Oktoberfest, it’s a family affair. There’s craft beer, but also music, food and fun for all ages.
Westoberfest 2024.
Kids will enjoy a petting zoo, inflatable corn maze, pumpkin patch, pumpkin decorating, flower crown making, bubbles, hula hoops, face painting, cornhole and giant Jenga.
Also on tap (ho ho): contests and raffles.
Live music is provided by Dan Tressler and One Bad Oyster. A variety of food trucks will be on hand, along with a full vendor marketplace of local businesses.
In collaboration with The Grapevine, the tasting tent showcases a wide selection of curated craft brews from award-winning and innovative breweries, served in a commemorative 2025 tasting glass with a matching koozie, to take home.
And of course, craft beer.
This year the WDA is partnering with Castle Wine & Spirits. They’ll serve as sommeliers, guiding guests through seasonal wine pairings that complement the flavors of fall and fit well with the Oktoberfest spirit.
Ticket options include festival admission and beer tasting pass; festival admission only, and special prices for adults, seniors (65+) and children 4-12. Kids under 4 are free. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Many Staples High School students have interesting summer gigs.
Take Nolan Francis. The rising senior worked at Yale University’s Choate Lab, researching a rare skin condition called ichthyosis, or epidermal differentiation disorder (EDD). It can lead to fatal heart disease, or a significant decline in quality of life.
Recent cuts to the National Institutes of Health have “pushed the possibility of a cure from the near future to a far-fetched aspiration,” Nolan says.
A labmate, 2nd-year medical student Devin Seli, is affected by EDD. Twice a week, he swims with a triathlon group at Compo Beach.
So Nolan, Devin and a few others from the lab decided to raise awareness — and funds.
All donations will go to the Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types, which bridges the financial gap for people with the disorder. FIRST has also awarded millions of dollars in research grants to laboratories.
PS: Here’s a bit more about Nolan, a definite rising star. His work in Staples’ Scientific Research Program earned him 4th place at the state High School Science Symposium. He also received the International Society for In Vitro Biology award at the Connecticut Science & Engineering Fair.
He is on Staples’ STEM Journal editorial board, and is the incoming vice president of the Sciene National Honors Society. He’s also an AP Scholar with Distinction, and founded the current iteration of Staples’ National English Honor Society.
He has volunteered at Norwalk Hospital’s Catheterization Lab, and was a counselor at Camp Discovery, for children unable to attend mainstream sleepaway camps due to medical conditions.
He plays violin in the Symphonic Orchestra. He was the first-ever junior to be captain of Staples’ boys swim team. He received the inaugural Junior Leadership Award at the Scholar-Athlete banquet. And he’s been involved with the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s Special Olympics swim program since 2018.
For well over a quarter of that time — 14 years — Hal Shupack served on the board of the non-profit, dedicating to ending homelessness and food insecurity in Fairfield County.
On Friday, the Gillespie Center’s courtyard was named for the longtime Weston resident. A former 1st Selectman, he died in 2020, at 84.
Homes with Hope president and CEO Helen McAlinden said that from her first days “he took me under his wing, showed me around Weston, and taught me everything I know about the town. His knowledge, kindness, and deep-rooted commitment to the community were inspiring, and contagious.
“Hal lived his values every day, whether through his leadership as first selectman, his tireless work on countless boards and committees, or his long-standing dedication to Homes with Hope. His warmth, his wit, and his deep care for people made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.”
Several dozen guests — including members of Shupack’s family — attended the ceremony.
Since opening last month, Gruel Brittania has become one of Westport’s favorite restaurants.
The Cross Highway parking lot is often full. Occasionally, customers park on nearby Vineyard Lane.
Yesterday, this driver did not want to walk the extra 50 steps. He (or she) planted his (or her) car smack in the middle of the exit:
(Photo/Andrew Bangser)
To be clear: That white vehicle is blocking the exit (and a couple of cars on the right).
That empty space next to it? That’s a legit parking space.
I’m sure the Brits have a better word than we do for “entitled jerk.”
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Speaking of confusion: Signs have been placed on downtown streets, indicating new parking rules.
On-street limits have been lowered from 3 hours to 2. (They remain 3 hours in downtown parking lots.)
(Photo/Sal Liccione)
There’s just one problem: The sign says enforcement begins at 7 a.m. Notices from the town — and the Board of Selectwomen vote — is for 8 a.m.
“06880” reached out to town officials for clarification. We have not yet heard back.
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Tickets are on sale now Westoberfest.
The 8th annual festival — sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association — rolls into town October 4 (noon to 6 p.m.).
On tap: family activities, craft beers, live music, vendors, food, contests — and a few surprises.
Organized in collaboration with The Grapevine and Castle Wine & Spirits, everyone with access to the beer tasting tent receives a free tasting glass and koozie.
There are several ticket options including with or without admission to the beer tasting tent. Seniors and children 4-12 years old get special rates; children under 4 are free. Click here for details, and to purchase.
For the past 24 years, Westporter Ellen Bowen has joined her brother David Paine’s non profit, 911Day, to honor the victims, heroes and first responders of that tragedy.
It’s a day of remembrance — and service.
What began as a small project — painting a teachers’ lounge in a school in lower Manhattan — has grown to an initiative in 21 cities.
30,000 volunteers pack over 9 million meals– in one day — for food banks and pantries.
This year for the first time, the Meal Pack program comes to Connecticut.
Bridgeport’s Total Mortgage Arena and 9/11 Day seek volunteer teams (6 members and more) from companies and businesses, to 2 spend 2 hours packing meals.
Ellen says, “This is an inspiring and rewarding way to spend a couple of hours giving back — just like we all tried to do on that tragic day 24 years ago.”
Paul Scheulefe is a Boston-area native. He lives there now.
But he spent 25 years in Weston. He commuted to New York; after retiring, he taught English at Brunswick Academy and Fairfield Country Day School. he also coached lacrosse, and founded the Weston Lacrosse Club.
He honed his writing skills at the Westport Writers’ Workshop. He’s just published his first novel, “Damaged Goods.” Set during the financial crisis of 2008, it’s about a high-powered Wall Street trader’s existential crisis after learning he is the custodian of his estranged late sister’s frozen eggs.
Of special interest to “06880” readers (who Scheufele hopes will become “Damaged Goods” readers: The story is set in Westport.
Feedback to his “family drama” book — part of the Ann Patchett/Jodi Picoult genre — has been excellent, he says. Click here to buy.
James Lovell — the commander of the Apollo 13 spacecraft whose return to Earth following a massive explosion as it neared the moon in 1970 captivated the world (and, later, movie audiences in “Apollo 13”) — died Thursday. He was 97.
Richard Wiese — a longtime Weston resident, and president of The Explorers Club — knew Lovell.
He says, “Although Jim stopped traveling to space decades ago, he continued to be an inspiration to people young and old by encouraging their interest in science, and leading by his own example – one must be bold to turn the impossible into reality.
“Captain Lovell’s life and legacy are in keeping with the highest traditions of The Explorers Club. For those of us who knew him, Jim was a humble, down-to-earth friend. Legends aren’t only made in space — sometimes, they’re made in the way they treat people here on Earth.”
James Lovell (left) and Richard Wiese, Explorers Club president.
And finally … in honor of the gorgeous sturgeon moon (photo above):
(A beautiful moon, a beautiful weekend day, a beautiful “06880” online community … we are blessed. Enjoy the first two. And if you enjoy this blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Westoberfest had all the elements of an early fall (okay, last day of summer) celebration on Saturday.
Beer (from 22 breweries) and pumpkin crafts drew perhaps the largest crowd in the 7-year history of the Westport Downtown Association event, to Elm Street and environs.
But plenty else kept them there, including 2 dozen vendors, 6 food trucks, music, and kids’ activities.
Westoberfest has quickly become one of the highlights of the WDA — and entire Westport — calendar.
When Kyle Martino was growing up in Westport, he played pickup soccer with and against much older players — including college stars who had graduated from Staples.
The training worked. Martino went on to become 1999 National High School Player of the Year; MLS Rookie of the Year; a teammate of David Beckham’s on the Los Angeles Galaxy, and an 8-time US men’s national team player.
Martino’s passion for the game continues unabated. He has developed a unique retractable goal that turns any basketball court or blacktop into a small-sided field, and a non profit (Over Under Initiative) to bring soccer to underserved communities.
On Friday Martino was in Westport, discussing his ideas, seeking input and help, and encouraging his home town to be a national leader in the movement back to small-sided soccer, and encouraging informal play by all ages.
He brought some heavy hitters to the meeting at a private home: Cobi Jones, his former Galaxy teammate and the all-time leader in US men’s national team appearances (164), plus Edson Buddle, his longtime friend from New Rochelle who scored over 100 MLS goals.
Dave Briggs was at the meeting. He asked Martino to explain his mission. Click below to listen:
According to Reproductive Equity Now, anti-abortion centers — also called “crisis pregnancy centers” — are “facilities that pretend to be reproductive health clinics, but in reality, exist to dissuade people from accessing abortion care using deceptive advertising, abortion stigma, and medical disinformation.” REN says that in Connecticut, they outnumber “legitimate abortion clinics’ nearly 2 to 1.
On October 16 at MoCA CT, the organization will screen “Preconceived.” The new documentary “exposes anti-abortion centers’ deceptive and dangerous practices.”
There are 2 showings: 10 a.m. (click here for tickets) and 7 p.m. (click here for tickets). The evening event includes light refreshments at 6:30, and a brief post-screening panel with elected officials and providers.
Adam Vengrow gives a shout-out to Billi at the Post Road East Mobil station, across from Playhouse Square.
Adam writes: “I popped a tire yesterday, and couldn’t find where.
I went right tot he best. It was Sunday morning, but Billi stopped what he was doing and fixed us right up. Love them!”
(Photo/Adam Vengrow)
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Visitors can relive the golden age of Weston at The Peter Thorp House on Sunday (September 29, 4 to 7 p.m.).
The Weston History & Culture is hosting a fundraiser, with guided tours of the historic property, a cocktail party in the rose garden, a musical performance, and raffles.
Early bird tickets ($125) include 5 raffle tickets; click here.
The Pantry — the Fairfield market very popular with Westporters — has reopened, following a recent fire.
Owners were buoyed by support from local merchants. Westport’s Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center sent parsley, basil and edible flowers. Harry’s Wine & Liquor offered beer and wine for the clean-up crew. Other businesses helped too, Mary Condon reports.
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The only downside to Saturday’s LobsterFest were the spotted lanternflies covering trees at nearby Compo Beach South Beach.
They landed on a few attendees, who brushed them off, then squished them.
“You hate to do it, because they’re really so pretty,” one festival-goer said.
“But they really are gross.”
And invasive.
Here’s a “Westport … Naturally” photo of a dead lanternfly. It is indeed both pretty and gross.
And finally … songwriter Billy Edd Wheeler died this past week in North Carolina. He was 91. Click here for a full obituary, and click below for his most famous song.
(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution, to support our work. Thank you!)
Jack Stoler is a rising Staples High School senior. He plays on the state champion football team.
But his biggest score may come off the field.
He’s organized the first-ever Fairfield County Jam.
The August 30 event (7 to 10 p.m., Fairfield Theatre Company) is a fundraiser for KEYS.
The Bridgeport non-profit — whose acronym stands for Kids Empowered by Your Support — provides free music lessons and performance opportunities for under-resourced students.
The Jam will include bands from across Fairfield County — including many Staples students. A number of football players will be on hand too.
The goal is $15,000.
For tickets and more information, click here. Questions? Call Jack at 917-453-4038 ,or email jackstoler@icloud.com.
Jack Stoler (right) and jazz musicians, at the Levitt Pavilion.
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Westporters donate time and treasure to many worthy organizations.
At the top of any list is Mercy Learning Center.
The Bridgeport non-profit offers literacy and life skills training for women with low incomes.
Coming from 40 different countries, they study English, math, science, health, civics, computers, and employment and life skills.
They are supported by an early childhood education program; social services including case management, mental health counseling, health and financial screenings; job and counseling advice, and enrichment opportunities.
Mercy Learning Center clients earn high school equivalency diplomas; learn job skills, and get help finding work; receive assistance applying for college, job training programs and scholarships, and prepare for US citizenship exams.
It’s all offered at no cost, to hundreds of women every year.
Mercy’s many Westport volunteers are gearing up for their annual Empowering Women Through Education Benefit.
It’s Sunday, September 15 (5 p.m., Shorehaven Country Club, Norwalk). The event includes cocktails and light bites — plus inspiring stories of education and empowerment.
Run — don’t walk — to Fleet Feet’s 2 fall programs.
The store continues its partnership with the Westport Weston Family YMCA. Its coach-led, 8-week training will focus on the New York Marathon. However, it is also good preparation for any fall long-distance race. Click here for more information.
The Zoomerangs kids program returns September 8.
Sessions are held Sundays (3 to 4 p.m., Staples High School Laddie Lawrence Track), through October 20.
A certified youth coach will introduce youngsters to the sport of running. Click here for more information.
Positions are available for fall clinics: grades K-2 (Sunday mornings) and grades 3-8 (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings), and spring teams (grades 5-8 head and assistant), practices and clinics.
General and specialty (goalies, draw) coaches are needed. Girls/women’s lacrosse experience is required; coaching experience is ideal, but not mandatory. Eager new coaches can be trained.
Pay is “highly competitive.” For more information, contact PAL girls coaching directory Cathy Schager: cschager@westportps.org; 203-554-5691.
Westport PAL lacrosse players, at Paul Lane Stadium.
Only 10 days left to snag early-bird tickets for Westoberfest.
The Westport Downtown Association Oktoberfest-style event (in September: the 21st, 2-5 p.m., Elm Street) features over 50 tastings from innovative craft breweries like Kent Falls, Nod Hill, Obscure Oscillation and Space Cat Brewing to name a few, plus activities like keg rolling and pumpkin chucking contests for adults.
Children’s activities include root beer floats, flower crown-making, pumpkin decorating and face painting.
There’s live music too, from One Bad Oyster.
For a complete list of breweries, kids’ activities, food and vendors, click here.
The price through August 31 is $45. Tickets go up to $50 on September 1; they’re $55 at the event. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
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Jay Norris was the speaker at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club lunch.
The entrepreneur, Startup Westport organizer, and Library and YMCA board member discussed Westport 10, the networking group for Black men he co-founded.
Norris noted that diversity is necessary for innovation in any organization or community.
His definition of diversity is broader than the usual categories of race, gender and culture. To him, it means bringing together a “mosaic” of individuals with different backgrounds, skills, experiences and perspectives to produce solutions to problems in a creative, comprehensive and sustainable way.
He calls diversity more than just a moral issue. It is, Norris says, “the essential ingredient of progress.”
Jay Norris (Photo/Dave Matlow)
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“06880” readers sent plenty of photos of last night’s full moon.
Many were taken at Compo Beach. This was one of the most interesting:
The public is invited to a Japanese Fall Festival on Saturday, September 7 (1 to 4 p.m., Jesup Green).
The family-friendly festival — sponsored by the Japan Society of Fairfield County — features taiko drum performances, live plays of Japanese folktales, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional dancing.
(Another day, another Roundup chock full o’ news and information you can use. If you enjoy this daily feature, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
On Friday, “06880” noted that early bird tickets are on sale for Westoberfest.
Here are more details on the 7th annual craft beer-and-fall festival (September 21, 2 to 5 p.m., downtown Westport), sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association.
Guests enjoy over 45 tastings from innovative craft breweries like Kent Falls, Nod Hill, Obscure Oscillation and Space Cat Brewing to name a few, plus activities like keg rolling and pumpkin chucking contests for adults.
Children’s activities include root beer floats, flower crown-making, pumpkin decorating and face painting.
There’s live music too, from One Bad Oyster.
For a complete list of breweries, kids’ activities, food and vendors, click here.
The price through August 31 is $45. Tickets go up to $50 on September 1, and are $55 at the event. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Westoberfest, in downtown Westport.
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Southern Tide — the men’s, women’s and children’s clothing store — has opened on Elm Street, around the corner from Brooks Corner.
There is still merchandise at their Playhouse Square location. But the large sign above the store there is gone.
Meanwhile, coming August 17 to Westport: Framebridge.
The custom frame shop will open at 123 Post Road East, next to WEST.
News 12 Connecticut has been nominated for a number of New York Emmy Awards.
Among them: “My Name is Wynston Browne” — a compelling story about the Staples High School rising senior who, despite non-speaking autism — has learned to communicate using a typing device
The nomination cites reporter Mark Sudol, and photographer/editors Frank Bruce Rosen and Mark Sogofsky. It is in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Category.
News 12 Connecticut’s “Burning Desires” story — about the murder of Westporter Joan Wertkin — was also nominated for an Emmy.
Also nominated: 1974 Staples High School graduate Susan Handman, as a performer/narrator for NYC Life.
The 67th annual Emmy gala takes place October 26, at the New York Marriott Marquis.
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Happy anniversary to Rex Fowler and Dodie Pettit!
The couple — who now perform and tour as Aztec Two-Step 2.0, the new iteration of the much-revered folk-rock duo Fowler formed over 50 years ago — celebrated with a small party yesterday, in the same yard where they were married 6 years ago.
Rain chased the musicians inside. But — happily — the band (with some very talented friends) played on.
Rex Fowler and Dodie Pettit blow out the candles. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Congratulations to the 2024 Longshore Women’s Golf Association club champions: Jennifer Cole, Cynthia Carpenter, Robin Babes, Jean Murdoch, Dorothy Torpie, Cynthia Sher, Chris LoRusso and Elizabeth Harleman.
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Three princesses came to Westport Saturday, in custom gowns and professionally styled wigs.
They were not real royalty. They were from Your Premium Princesses, a “bespoke character company of your dreams, where magic meets sophistication.” They’re hired for birthday parties, corporate events and grand openings
This event was a child’s birthday party, off Hillspoint Road.
Young partygoers did their part too, arriving in costumes.
What? No princes?!
(Hat tip and photo/Barbara Schwarz)
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June Walker Rogers — a Broadway singer, dancer and comedienne who appeared on television and wrote 13 plays and musicals, died last Monday at her Westport home, where she lived for decades. She was 97.
Born in Steubenville, Ohio, and raised in Queens, she started dancing at 5. She later developed a nightclub act, performing with Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Louis Prima, Don Rickles, Rodney Dangerfield and Louis Farrakhan (when he performed under the name “Calypso Louie”).
She left Columbia University early to make her Broadway debut. She performed with Bert Lahr, Dick Van Dyke, Tony Bennett and Orson Bean, and appeared on Steve Allen and Jackie Gleason’s TV shows. Ed Sullivan was so taken with her that he brought her to the White House, to perform for Presidents Truman and Eisenhower.
After starting a family, she turned to playwriting. She then returned to the stage, at the Westport Country Playhouse.
Rogers was a founding member of the Theater Artists Workshop of Westport.
She was married for 50 years to the late Tony-nominated writer/actor David Rogers, who died in 2013. She is survived by her daughters Dulcy Rogers Bader (Diedrich) and Amanda Rogers, and grandchildren Lucy, Sebastian, Dashiell and Ondine. Click here for a full obituary.
And finally … on this day in 1962, Marilyn Monroe was found dead in her Los Angeles home, from a drug overdose. She was 36.
(“06880” is Westport’s hyper-local blog. We rely on support from readers like you. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
Couch Potato Salad — the very cool word game created by 2001 Staples High School graduate (and returned-to-home Westporter) Zack Gross — is better than ever.
With the help of Joshua Jordan — the spectacularly talented 2024 Staples grad (and rising Georgetown University freshman) — the game is even more engaging, and easier to use.
The game is the same: Every day, users get an AI-generated image of a word puzzle. There are 2 common phrases, linked by a common word. For example:
This is the title: “Couch Potato Salad”
Or:
“Smart Cookie Monster.”
Now, the puzzles have been organized into levels. And users can play together, in groups, on the app.
Also new: a hint systems; speech-to-text; more chances to solve; better graphics, and a cleaner interface.
The Westport Country Playhouse has a 93-year tradition of presenting top-notch plays and musicals. This year, they’ve added concerts, cabarets, one-person shows, and much more.
This month, they’ll host tours — and a tag sale.
“From the Page to the Stage” guided tours are available by reservation on Friday, August 23 and Saturday, August 24, from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
Participants will visit backstage, the greenroom, dressing rooms, the scene shop and wardrobe room. They’ll see posters, photos, costume designs, set models, and (of course) the historic stage.
Tour guide Bruce Miller, Playhouse archivist, will also tell tales about the productions and artists, spanning nearly a century of shows.
There is no fee for the tour, but donations are encouraged. Click here for reservations.
The tag sale is Saturday, August 10 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.). It features wardrobe items, including more than 100 shirts – tees, casual, business, tux shirts – for only $1; pants for $2; shoes for $5, plus a selection of show pieces at special prices. Also on sale: Playhouse memorabilia including posters, scripts, and props.
The August 10 tag sale will include memorabilia from the Westport Country Playhouse’s 93-year history. (Photo/Wells Studio)
Speaking of the Playhouse: “Cheese Fries & Chili Dips” — very funny (and equally poignant) one-man show, written and performed by Westonite Chris Fuller — comes to the Playhouse Sheffer Barn August 22 and 23 (7:30 p.m.).
It center around Fuller’s dream to play on the PGA Tour — while living with bipolar disorder. He details the difficulties of competing in tournaments while his mind raced out of control with sudden mood swings, setting him on a path to self-destruction. He tells his tale with insights, clarity — and plenty of humor.
Fittingly, it’s a benefit for the International Mental Health Foundation.
All tickets are $25. The include a pre-show party (6:30 p.m.) with music, complimentary margaritas and nachos, and tips from Golf Performance Center pros. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
PS: Fuller will give a copy of his book (“Goodnight, Golf!”) to an audience participant, after an onstage putting contest during the show.
Speaking of entertainment: Westport’s own Drew Angus entertained a large, enthusiastic crowd last night, at the Levitt Pavilion.
The free shows continue tonight (7:30 p.m.). Blue Note supergroup Artemis takes the stage, en route to the Newport Jazz Festival. They’ve been named Downbeat Readers’ Poll Jazz Group of the Year, and Jazz Journalists Association Mid-Sized Ensemble of the Year.
Saturday’s 5:30 p.m. concert (Pink Talking Fish, with Telula) is a ticketed event ($25).
Sunday (7 p.m.) features the West Point Concert Band. That’s another free one.
Click here for tickets (free and paid), and more information.
Speaking still of entertainment: The Westport Community Theatre has announced its 67th season.
Shows include “The Pavilion” (September 13-29), “The Other Place” November 15-December 1), “Pride and Prejudice” (January 31-February 16), “Agnes of God” (March 28-April 13), and “Ken Ludwig’s The Gods of Comedy” (June 6-22).
Click here for tickets — including discount prices, priority seating, bonus tickets to share with friends, and free admission to staged readings and special presentations.
Invasive Plant Removal Day (August 21, 10 a.m.; free).
Click here for registration, and more information.
Butterflies are just one attraction at Earthplace. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
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The Westport Farmers’ Market is a great place for fresh produce, herbs, meats, bread, baked goods, pet food, pizza and tacos.
The Imperial Avenue parking lot is also the spot every Thursday for live music, and a rotating series of informational booths for very worthy non-profits.
Yesterday, shoppers were reminded to vote.
The message was delivered — typically, for the Farmers’ Market — in a sustainable way.
A non-partisan project — backed by the office of Connecticut’s Secretary of the State — uses recycled wire lawn signs to spread the word that a primary election is August 13. The general election follows in November.
Shoppers were urged to make their own signs, to fit into those wire holders.
And when those reminders are over, maybe candidates will use those wire lawn signs a third time.
What’s with the new construction at 254 Hillspoint Road?
After blasting into the hillside below Sherwood Drive, builders laid a foundation that’s a lot sturdier than you see in a normal home.
The newest addition: very strong steel beams.
(Photo/Richard Fogel)
Passersby — and there are many, on the well-traveled road, wonder: Is it a home?
Or a bunker?
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Howard Edelstein spotted this sight at Saugatuck Shores:
(Photo/Howard Edelstein)
He writes: “I know that there are a million very good reasons to live in Westport. But this photo — taken at 6:30 a.m. — says it all.
“I’ve seen paddle boarding and yoga. But to do yoga and meditate on a paddle board while standing on your head is a first for me.”
Howard says the man — whose name is Gil — floated out toward Longshore, then back.
Very, very peacefully.
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Speaking of the water: The 37th annual Swim Across the Sound splashes off tomorrow (Saturday, August 3).
The open water event draws swimmers from across the country and raises thousands of dollars to support cancer patients and their families.
The event is sponsored by Hartford HealthCare St. Vincent’s Medical Center.
Among the scores of swimmers: Westport resident and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Lauren Fabian.
This is her second Swim Across the Sound. Last year, she swam with friends she met at the Westport Weston Family YMCA.
This year, she’s part of the Orthopedic Specialty Group team, based in Fairfield.
“We always look for opportunities to get involved and give back to the community,” she says. “My partners are excited to get out of their comfort zones for a great cause.”
Dr. Lauren Fabian
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The early bird gets the worm.
And the craft beer.
“Early bird tickets” are on sale for Westoberfest. The 7th annual craft beer-and-fall festival is set for September 21 (2 to 5 p.m.), in downtown Westport. The event is sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association.
The price through August 31 is $45. Tickets go up to $50 on September 1, and are $55 at the event. Click here to purchase, and for more information.
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Jill Schary Robinson, an author and journalist who chronicled her life growing up in Hollywood — but spent several years in Westport too as an adult — died July 19 at her Beverly Hills home. She was 88.
Robinson was the daughter of playwright, screenwriter and MGM executive Dore Schary. She wrote her first novel, “Perdido,” while living here.
Click here for a full obituary. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)
Jill Schary Robinson (Photo/Bernard Gotfryd, via Library of Congress)
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As July turned to August, only a few of these were left at Baron’s South.
Today’s colorful “Westport … Naturally” feature comes courtesy of Molly Alger.
The event – begun in 1938 in the Black Hills of South Dakota, originally for stunts and races — has grown into a 10-day event. It draws 500,000 people, and generates $800 million in revenue.
(Get your motor runnin’. Head out on the highway. Then click here to donate to “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Thanks for your support!)
Also last night: The annual “Stand up for Homes with Hope” benefit.
A full crowd packed Fairfield University’s Quick Center to laugh uproariously with Roy Wood Jr., and raise much-needed funds for Westport’s supportive shelter and food pantry non-profit.
Laughter and homelessness don’t often go together. But the star of the night — and Helen McAlinden and the many board and staff members who make Homes with Hope a local treasure — made sure attendees understood that connections between all of us are the most important thing in life.
Flooding is a major issue in Westport. As climate change worsens, it too will became even more prevalent.
The Flood & Erosion Control Board meets November 1. On the agenda:
Prioritize and assist the Department of Public Works in the approval and implementation of flood related projects involving watersheds in Westport.
Work with the Representative Town Meeting to revise regulations, allowing the board to review large projects if required, and educate the RTM about public input related to flooding.
Dedicate a minimum of 2 public discussion meetings per year to discuss updates on flood projects.
Develop and implement a campaign to help educate the public about flood and erosion issues in Westport.
Develop and implement a plan to educate the community on ways to help mitigate the impact of flooding and erosion on private and public properties.
Advocate for supporting the town mitigation efforts by sharing the board’s perspective with the Board of Finance, state legislative leaders, and Department of Energy & Environmental Protection officials.
The meeting will be held virtually. Click here for the Zoom link. The meeting ID is 892 4707 8896; the passcode is 900470.
Grove Point flooding, from a December storm. (Photo/John Kantor)
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Saranda and Al Strazza are very involved with Veterans of Foreign Wars Joseph J. Clinton Post 399. Al — a retired combat Marine who served in the first Gulf War — is now vice commander of the local VFW. Saranda helped obtain a $100,000 gift, to pay for river dredging in the area.
This Friday (October 20, 6 p.m.), the VFW hosts a Chili Cook-off. The participation fee is $15. Funds raised will benefit Westport’s Police and Fire Departments, and Emergency Medical Services.
There are prizes, a 50/50 raffle — and of course chili.
While participating in the Citizen Police Academy, Saranda and Al were surprised to learn that the local K-9 unit is completely funded by donations.
They vowed to help raise funds for a new bite jacket, medical costs, food, equipment supplies and training toys.
A booth at the Chili Cook-off will sell plush toys for sale, and collect donations.
For more information, call 203-227-6796, or email vfw399ct@gmail.com.
October is both Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Fire Safety Month.
So — of course! — on Friday the Westport Fire Department brought fire trucks and pink fire boots to Kings Highway Elementary school, for an all-school event.
Fire Marshal Terry Dunn spoke to students about fire safety. Meanwhile, his fellow firefighters collected donations from students for the American Cancer Society. Students filled the pink boots with more than $475.
After listening to the fire safety speech, students, teachers and administrators explored a vintage fire truck. ‘
They also placed pink ribbons in the back of the school, as a symbol of support for those impacted by breast cancer.
Kings Highway Elementary School administrators, in a vintage fire truck. From front to back: principal Tracey Carbone, assistant principals Catherine Carmona and Jame’el Lawrence.
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Also on Friday, the Norwalk Housing Authority brought students to the Westport Community Gardens for after-school art enrichment.
Creativity “bloomed,” as NHS and WCG adults watched with pride.
The Westport Woman’s Club’s annual Clothing Tag Sale runs this Friday and Saturday (October 20-21) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday (October 22) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the WWC’s historic clubhouse (44 Imperial Avenue).
Gently used women’s, men’s and children’s clothing and accessories are featured, with a wide variety of suits, dresses, pants, blouses, gowns, coats, scarves, shoes, jewelry, handbags and hats.
Funds raised help support the town’s food closet, many charities throughout Fairfield County, and student scholarships.
Rolling Stone magazine just listed their 250 best guitarists of all time.
There at #7 — behind Jimi Hendrix, Chuck Berry, Jimmy Page, Eddie Van Halen, Jeff Beck and Sister Rosetta Tharpe, but ahead of artists like BB King and Duane Allman — is Westport’s own Nile Rodgers.
The story begins:
There’s “influential,” then there’s “massively influential,” then there’s Nile Rodgers. The story of pop music over the past 50 years is basically the story of Rodgers’ guitar.
The manic-staccato funk jangle he invented with Chic, in Seventies disco hits like “Le Freak” and “Good Times” — that’s been the heartbeat of global pop ever since.
His warp-speed guitar on the 1980 Diana Ross classic “I’m Coming Out” was still the toughest sound on the radio almost two decades later, when Biggie turned it into “Mo Money Mo Problems.” Now that’s staying power.
Jack Backiel is a frequent commenter on “06880.” He no longer lives here, but he has fond memories of the years his family owned Westport Lanes — the bowling alley located where BevMax is today.
Jack’s son John recently added a small display about the Lanes in his dining room. It includes newspaper clippings, stationery, and a photo of opening day (with professional bowlers, sent by Brunswick).
John lives in the Washington area, and is vice president of finance and accounting at the Heritage Foundation.
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High on the cell tower behind Walgreens, Johanna Keyser Rossi counted 20 turkey vultures. And a few crows.
It takes an eagle eye to sport them. But they’re all part of “Westport … Naturally.”
And finally … let’s hear it for our neighbor Nile Rodgers, the 7th greatest guitarist in the world! (See story above …)
(From floods and the Fire Department to Nile Rodgers and Keith Richards, we’ve got 06880 [and 06883] covered. Please click here to support local journalism. Thank you!)
A couple of readers thought the type size on the new app was difficult to read.
So developer Joshua Jordan went to work. He added the ability to increase type size — and/or the spacing between lines — in the easiest possible way.
There’s now an “eyeball” icon on the top right of any story you read (see image below). Just click it, and adjust the type size and spacing. It stays there automatically, every time you visit.
The eyeball icon.
If you’ve got the app, it should have automatically updated to include the new feature. If it did not, click “Updates” in your app store. The “06880” app is available for both iOS and Android phones.
Thanks again to Joshua, for taking time out of his busy schedule as a Staples High School senior to add this feature.
It was standing room only yesterday afternoon, for Patty Haberstroh‘s memorial service at The Inn at Longshore.
The longtime Department of Human Services social worker/former PTA Council president/Staples Building Committee member/beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend, confidante was remember warmly, personally, insightfully and laughingly by her husband Charlie, 3 sons, daughter, grandchildren, neurologist and minister.
Videos of Patty accepting an award from a national ALS organization — midway through the disease that ultimately took her life this summer — and of the Haberstroh family’s “ALS Pepper Challenge” that raised over $1 million for research added extra spice to the afternoon.
People of all ages came from near and far to honor Patty. She got a sendoff worthy of her wonderfulness.
Patty Haberstroh’s children address the SRO crowd at yesterday’s Inn at Longshore memorial service. (Photo/Mark Mathias)
The Westport Rotary Club’s LobsterFest is always a highlight of late summer/early fall.
This year’s event — set for Saturday (September 23, 3 to 7 p.m.) — is even more highlight-y than most.
It’s also the kickoff for Rotary’s Centennial Project: a rehab of the Compo Beach playground, in partnership with the Westport Young Woman’s League and town of Westport.
The ginormous fundraiser — the biggest 1-day Rotary event in New England — sold out just 4 days after tickets went on sale, in July.
It’s an enormous effort. Volunteers — Westport Rotary members, and others — feed 2,000 people, in 4 hours.
This year’s LobsterFest includes many new activities for the 400-plus youngsters who will attend. For the first time, a “kids’ meal” food truck will be on site.
Over the last 12 years, the event has raised $1.5 million. Over $1 million has been reinvested in local and regional program, while $350,000 has supported international humanitarian projects, mostly in Central America and Africa.
This year, $100,000 will go toward the playground project.
Planning has already begun. The organizing committee is looking for volunteers (click here to help).
LobsterFest also kicks off 2 weeks in which the public can provide input on features they love and want to keep, those that are not great and could be replaced, and new elements they’d like to see.
The data will then be analyzed and sent to Play By Design. They’ll generate a preliminary design, which will be revealed to Westport at the end of October. Click here to provide input on the redesign.
Everyone loves the Westport Rotary Club’s LobsterFest.
One of the best — and most underrated — is Saturday, September 30 (7 to 10 p.m.). Earthplace’s “Woodside Bash” includes an open bar, harvest dinner, fire pit, music by Pimpinella, and a mechanical bull (with a prize for the longest time on it). It’s all under the stars (with, of course, a tent).
This year’s signature cocktail is a spiced apple cider margarita.
They include beer tasting from dozens of craft breweries; live music; food by Walrus Alley, Kneads Bakery, Lobstercraft and Little Pub; a children’s area run by the Artists’ Collective of Westport and MoCA; a street magician, bubbles and face painting; pumpkin and apple giveaways; food trucks, and vendors like Savvy + Grace.
Take-home tasting glasses with koozies are courtesy of Lux Bond & Green.
It all takes place October 14 (2 to 5 p.m.), off Elm Street. Click here for tickets, and more information.
Westport is chockablock with organizations that change lives. “06880” reports often on them.
But we’ve never mentioned PEO. That’s because until yesterday, we’d never heard of it.
That’s amazing. It’s been around for over 150 years.
Philanthropic Educational Organization was created in 1869 in Iowa to offer more educational opportunities to women. There are now 225,000 members in 6,000 chapters in the US and Canada.
Over the years, PEO has provided over $398 million in financial assistance through direct scholarships and special projects to more than 110,00 women worldwide.
The local chapter – Chapter B CT — created its own scholarship fund last year in honor of the chapter’s 80th anniversary. They’ll award a scholarship to a female high school senior beginning next spring.
Young women with a successful academic record and financial need can apply here. Click here for the Chapter B CT website — designed by Miggs Burroughs — which includes donation information and details on other scholarships.
For more information, email chapter president Angela Wormser at aworm@aol.com, or scholarship chair Priscilla Long at pal9948@aol.com.
Her Time is a Bridgeport-based social justice program that serves women and children impacted by incarceration.
The women were either formerly incarcerated, or work multiple jobs and carry the loads their spouses, boyfriends, girlfriends and children left behind during incarceration.
On September 30, 2 powerful contemporary folk artists — Abbie Gardner and Tracy Grammer — will bring their energy and positive vibes to Voices Café (Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport, 8 p.m.). All proceeds benefit Her Time.
Voices Café offers tables and individual seats. Bring your own beverages and snacks, or buy a snack from their sweet treats table. Groups of 4 or more can reserve table space. General admission: $25 per person.
Drummer Joe Farnsworth wowed the crowd at his first Westport appearance.
He returns this Thursday to Jazz at the Post (VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; shows at 7:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7 p.m.). He’ll be joined by bassist Brandi Disterheft, pianist Caelan Cardello, and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
Reservations are strongly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
And finally … happy birthday to Westport’s own Nile Rodgers.
The Chic front man/3-time Grammy Award-winning/Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee/ “We Are Family” songwriter-producer has played at the Levitt Pavilion, helped out the Library, and contributed to the Saugatuck Shores vibe.
He’s 71 today. Here’s to many, many more!
(Nile Rodgers is a local guy. And “06880” is Westport’s favorite source for local news. Thanks for clicking here, and supporting your hyper-local blog.)
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!)
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