Posted onJune 16, 2024|Comments Off on Roundup: Yankee Doodle, Ham Operators, Compo Crowds …
After a rained-out Friday, the Yankee Doodle Fair was packed all day and night yesterday.
Ava Bierman enjoys the Yankee Doodle Fair. (Photo/Bryan Bierman)
The unofficial kickoff to summer ends today. Hours are 1-5 p.m. at the Westport Woman’s Club on Imperial Avenue. As always, proceeds help fund dozens of grants to local non-profits, and scholarships.
It takes many volunteers to keep Yankee Doodle Fair-goers happy and safe — and not just from the WWC.
The Community Emergency Response Team — which supports first responders in Westport and Weston, and helps out with events like this — has been out in full force.
You may think they were manning (and womanning) a booth. In fact, they were keeping an all on all of us.
As they always do.
Karen Kleine, Westport Woman’s Club Yankee Doodle Fair chair, checks in with CERT president Mike Vincelli and vice president David Kinyon. (Photo/Jo Shields Sherman)
The Westport Astronomical Society’s ham radio club K1WAS hosts ARRL Field Day — an in-person amateur radio event — at their observatory on 182 Bayberry Lane site next weekend. It runs from 2 p.m. Saturday, June 22 until 8 p.m. Sunday, June 23.
Field Day is an annual amateur radio activity with over 40,000 ham radio operators across America. They participate by establishing temporary radio stations in public locations, demonstrating their skills and service.
But you don’t need a radio license to participate. Everyone can get on the air, using radios provided by local radio clubs hosted by the observatory.
Ham operators play a crucial role in emergencies. They may be needed soon, during an active hurricane season.
“Hams have a long history of service when critical communication infrastructure like cell towers are damaged,” says Dan Wright, Westport Astronomical Society board member and amateur radio operator N3DAW.
“Field Day exemplifies the resilience and ingenuity of amateur radio operators, who connect the world, no matter the circumstances.”
For more information on the Field Day event, click here.
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Yesterday was the first legit weekend beach day of the year (school’s out, 80 degrees, summer vibe).
Right on cue, Compo Beach was packed.
The photo below is just a taste of what’s to come. Enjoy!
One other sign of summer: the hot dog grill outside Mitchells of Westport.
They’re known far and wide for their coffee (always) and bagels (weekend). But on select days, you can grab a dog with your suits, shirts, slacks and jewelry.
What started as a mom-and-pop shop has come a long way since 1958. The 4th generation of Mitchells has just joined the ranks.
But they never forget their down-home roots.
Hot dogs al fresco, at Mitchells. (Photo/Ed Simek)
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You’ve probably seen Little Ralphie — the inflatable yellow duck — at various spots around town.
While he’s promoting the Sunrise Rotary Club’s Great Duck Race, human Rotarians are busy sorting Ralphie’s plastic brethren.
They’re getting ready for the family-friendly event on Saturday, June 29 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Jesup Green).
Attendance — and fun — is free. Click here to purchase tickets for the raffle.
PS: The top prize is $5,000. And all proceeds go to Sunrise Rotary’s charity efforts.
Sunrise Rotarians, sorting ducks. From left: Joe Scordato, Pete Wolgast, president Liz Wong, president-elect Katie Augustyn, Bruce Fritz, Mazie Zdanowicz.
But there’s no limit to the amount of non-humans that can enjoy the facility. This was the “Westport … Naturally” scene recently, at the Mahackeno Outdoor Center.
(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
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And finally … Tupac Shakur was born on this day in 1971. The rapper and producer was killed in 1996, age 25.
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Comments Off on Roundup: Yankee Doodle, Ham Operators, Compo Crowds …
The Westport Astronomical Society will be there in force tomorrow (Saturday). But they won’t be riding the Ferris wheel, or even playing one of those galactic games.
The WAS will set up solar telescopes, so fairgoers can view the sun.
It’s full circle (ho ho). In 2017, the organization received a Westport Woman’s Club Ruegg Grant. They bought a Lunt 100mm solar telescope, for pristine views of the sun and its active atmosphere.
It, and other telescopes, will be there tomorrow. See the sun like never before!
If you were at Staples Pops Concert last week — or the Candlelight Concert, or any other show at the high school, middle schools or elementary schools this year — this is not exactly stop-the-presses news:
The Westport Public Schools have been honored with another “Best Communities for Music Education” award from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation.
The honor is getting routine. We’ve won it every year since 2013.
“Best Communities Music Education” designations go to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.
Criteria include funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs.
Over 200 students take part in the Candlelight Concert each year. Hundreds more participate in music programs at the middle and elementary schools.
Speaking of awards: Dozens of Westporters were proudly in the Hartford crowd Wednesday, as the Town of Westport, Westport Housing Authority and Homes with Hope were all honored by the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness.
All 3 groups received “Community Champions Awards,” for their continuing innovative practices and collaborative efforts, significantly impacting hundreds of people needing shelter and food.
Congratulations to all, on this major recognition!
Officials representing the town of Westport, Homes with Hope and Westport Housing Authority, and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, at Wednesday’s ceremony.
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There’s an old saying: “When you fall off a horse, get right back up.”
The same can be said about rowing shells.
In late March, over 2 dozen Saugatuck Rowing Club rowers and coaches were rescued from the frigid Long Island Sound after 3 shells capsized in a sudden squall. Significant equipment was lost.
Despite their challenging spring, the team put 8 boats into the A finals at USRowing Nationals last week — the most in the club history.
Now, for the first time, SRC will send a crew to the Henley Royal Regatta in England June 28 through July 8. It’s a great international test for the local club.
Though their commitments to attend the US Naval Academy and Military Academy, respectively, prevent them from competing in England, captains George Bentley and Dillon Bhutani have led fundraising effort for the trip by seeking sponsors for feats of endurance.
Travel to England is expensive, and requires specialized clothing (including a specific blazer and hat). Not all rowing families can manage the financial burden. To defray expenses, the team will stay with a host family rather than a hotel.
Donations of any size are welcome. Click here to help.
Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests last week.
An 18-year-old Weston man was charged with reckless driving, DUI under 21 years, passing in a no-passing zone and failure to drive n the proper lane, following a single-car rollover accident around 8:44 p.m. on May 14. Several witnesses described the driver’s reckless, aggressive habits prior to the crash.
A 26-year-old Danbury man was charged with evading responsibility, following too closely, and driving without a license, following an accident at 8:18 a.m. on May 9. A woman stopped in traffic on Bayberry Lane at Long Lots Road was struck from behind by an SUV. As she inspected the damage, the driver shrugged his shoulders and drove away. The woman took a photo of his license plate.
A 52-year-old Southbury man was charged with reckless burning, criminal mischief and threatening, following an investigation into an early morning April 2019 fire at the Saugatuck train station. Due to the man’s mental state at the time of the incident, he was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
A 36-year-old Torrington man was charged with burglary and larceny, following a November report of a burglary while a family was not home. A security camera showed the man entering the home. He was arrested after being implicated in another burglary in the neighborhood.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 19 citatiosn
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 6
Traveling unreasonably fast: 5
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
Evading responsibility: 1
Driving while texting: 1
Distracted driving 1
Improper passing: 1
Failure to drive right: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Unsafe backing: 1
Unreadable license plates: 1
Failure to wear seat belt: 1
Improper turn signal lamps: 1
Failure to renew registration: 1
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April Cunningham’s Westport roots run deep.
Her maiden name is Carusone. Her father was a Westport police officer. Her grandfather James Dorta worked for the town.
She fell on hard times. Both she and her husband are on disability. She has severe arthritis, while he has cataracts and needs surgery.
A couple of months ago, generous Westporters helped her and her husband with housing and food, in Milford.
Once again, they are on the verge of homelessness and hunger.
Click here to read the story of a local resident in need, with a link to a fund for assistance.
Russell Barnard, co-founder and publisher of Country Music Magazine, and longtime resident of Westport, died on February 5. He was 86.
He grew up in Pampa, Texas, then earned a degree in chemical engineering from Yale University in 1960.
After beginning his career at Sinclair Oil he soon moved to the music industry, working for Columbia Records in New York from 1963 to 1970, before turning to media and publishing.
In the early 70s he was a consultant to various media outlets and publications. He served as publisher of Harper’s Magazine from 1972 to 1976.
In 1972, he co-founded Country Music Magazine. With over 700,000 subscribers, it appealed to fans, music artists and industry executives, while never shying away from controversy or honest criticism.
Longtime contributor Rich Kienzle said that Barnard encouraged his writers —including luminaries like Patrick Carr, Nick Tosches and Peter Guralnick — to be “outlaw journalists,” like some country artists.
Barnard’s ability to spot, and foster, writing talent was as important to the magazine’s success as his ability to spot musical trends.
In 1988 he moved the magazine and his family from New York to Westport. Country Music had offices on Riverside Avenue and then Post Road East at Turkey Hill Road, where it remained until Barnard sold the magazine in 1999. The last issue was published in 2003.
In 2012, Barnard and his wife Helen — who worked as an editor of the magazine in Westport — moved back to New York City. He donated a collection of archived material to the University of North Carolina Wilson Special Collections Library, which Ken Burns drew on extensively for his documentary on the history of country music.
He is survived by Helen; their children Anne, John and Christopher, as well as 2 grandchildren. A small funeral was held in February at Willowbrook Cemetery, where he is buried.
Russ Barnard and Johnny Cash, at the singer’s Tennessee cabin.
That’s not the only local spot to tread lightly. This is a shot from Sherwood Island State Park — an excellent reminder of the wonders of “Westport … Naturally:
This was the scene yesterday in Norwalk, as workers dismantled the fire-damaged Fairfield Avenue I-95 overpass:
(Photo/News12 Connecticut)
Last night, massive “shears” were brought in from Long Island, to cut the metal. Work will continue all weekend.
Want to watch the ongoing operation, from the comfort of your home? Click here for this fascinating live webcam, courtesy of the state Department of Transportation.
Just when you think you’ve seen everything … you realize you haven’t.
A driver yesterday — perhaps unhappy with the I-95-related traffic, perhaps confused, perhaps distracted, but definitely not someone you want behind the wheel — decided to create a new street, in the pedestrian alley between Don Memo and Barnes & Noble.
Employees of Walrus Alley finally stopped him.
(Hat tip and photo/Joelle Malec)
But that’s not all.
He also ran the red light right there.
And drove right past pedestrians in the crosswalk, to make that right hand turn off the Post Road into the very narrow alley.
You can’t make this stuff up.
Nor would you want to.
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The Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place men’s and women’s shelters, and the Westport Food Pantry at the same site, have temporarily closed.
Homes with Hope has embarked on a $1.2 million renovation of the Jesup Road facility.
Food pantry pick-ups can be made at the Sasco Creek Village community building (1655 Post Road East) across from Goodwill) every weekday except Wednesday, from 1 to 4 p.m.
“It’s sad,” says Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden. “But the result will be happy.”
Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place: temporarily closed.
Marc Hartog appreciated “06880”‘s recent Roundup item, noting that AEDs are back in a number of public outdoor locations.
The deputy director of Westport Emergency Medical Service adds: “PulsePoint AED is an app that shows locations of public access AED (automated external defibrillators.
“As long as the user has location permission allowed on their cellphone, it shows the location of the closest AEDs, along with a picture of the location. Clicking on the picture then adds more specific information.
“For example, if I’m near Winslow Park, it says ‘Entrance behind Westport Country Playhouse, by map and dog fountain; address 295 Post Rd East.’
“It also shows who is responsible for that AED (in this case, Norwalk Hospital EMS), along with the email address of the responsible party.
“Or if I’m around Main Street, the map shows 3 public access AEDs: 2 inside Town Hall, 1 outside at the ball field in the rear parking lot.
“The only downside is that the app only shows AEDs that have been registered with PulsePoint by the entity that owns and is responsible for it. There may well be other public access AEDs downtown, possibly within stores or restaurants, but they are not registered and do not show up.
“We strongly encourage any business with an AED to register their location.”
The Westport Country Playhouse’s move to a new format — with plays scheduled for October through April, rather than the summer — will generate a lot of laughs.
In a good way. The 3 shows are comedies, in what the 94-year-old theater is called a “Season of Laughter.”
Each play runs for 3 weeks. The season also includes a holiday offering and musical revue.
“The 39 Steps” (October 22-November 9) is “a fast-paced frenzy of espionage and murderous mayhem … (mixing) Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film with a juicy spy novel, and a dash of Monty Python.”
“Native Gardens” (February 18-March 8) features 2 sets of neighbors, who become “feuding enemies in a backyard battle for the ages.”
“Theatre People” (March 25-April 12) is set in 1948, as Broadway stars gather in a Newport mansion for a weekend of “romance, chaos, and misunderstandings.”
The shorter-run productions are “A Sherlock Carol” (the family holiday show by artistic director Mark Shanahan, back after last year’s sold-out run; December 17-22), and “Broadway Scores at the Playhouse,” songs from the Golden Age to recent musicals (January 23-26).
Season ticket packages for all three longer-run productions start at $68. Tickets will go on sale soon. Click here for complete season details.
PS: In other Playhouse news, a limited number of tickets remain for Bernadette Peters’ evening of songs from music masters (May 19, 7 p.m.). Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Also: A third Mike Birbiglia “Please Stop the Ride” show has been added next month. It’s June 4 (8 p.m.).
Tickets to his June 7 performance are sold out. There are only a few seats left for the second one (June 5). Click here to purchase, and for more information.
Westport Country Playhouse (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)
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The Westport Book Shop is going to the dogs.
Exhibitor of the month Clark Hanford is showing oil paintings featuring dogs. They are painted in 19th century style, and are presented in antique frames.
Hanford has been an artist for over 5 decades, working in painting, clothing and sculpture. Before returning to Westport in 1985, the 1962 Staples High School graduate lived, worked and studied in London for 17 years, making and selling works from his Notting Hill shop.
He has created lifelike sculptures of Marlene Dietrich, Lucille Ball, Katherine Hepburn, Liz Taylor and others, dressed in period clothing made by Clark.
Hanford’s notable clients include Burt Bacharach, Demi Moore, John Entwistle, Elton John, Debbie Reynolds and David Bowie.
A reception is set for May 15 (6 to 7:30 p.m.).
Clark Hanford, at his Westport Book Shop exhibition.
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All month long, the Mid-Fairfield County Association of Realtors is running a food drive, to benefit Person-to-Person.
Items — including especially cereal, oatmeal, hearty soups, peanut butter and jelly, protein and granola bars, bags or boxes of rice, canned fruit and vegetables, pasta and sauce, dried and canned beans, nutrition bars, coffee and tea — can be dropped off at the MFCAR office (19 Imperial Avenue, weekdays between 9:30 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.).
The month-long drive ends with a shredding event (June 1, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Colonial Green). Anyone bringing a food donation gets complimentary shredding.
To give a monetary donation to People-to-People, scan the QR code below:
No one knows. But Caleb Scharf’s insights are probably far better than the rest of us.
NASA’s senior scientist for astrobiology at the Ames Research Center returns to the Westport Astronomical Society’s free online lecture series. He’ll discuss “The Search for Life in the Universe: 2024 and Beyond” on May 21 (8 p.m.; click here for Zoom; click here for YouTube livestream).
This is his third appearance at the WAS. He’ll speak specifically about research in exoplanetary science, exploration of the solar system, and upcoming plans for Mars, Titan, and the Habitable Worlds Observatory (NASA’s future space telescope).
The Joggers Club is moving to the Greens Farms train station, with “fun runs” on Saturdays starting at 8 a.m. It’s a buildup series, free to all registrants in the Fairfield Half Marathon.
The Joggers Club also runs (ho ho) Track Nights (Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., Staples High School track) and a Kids Run Club (Sundays, 4 p.m., Staples High School track; $25 per session, grades K-8).
Joggers Club memberships ($50) include a free Lululemon running shirt ($78 value), a year of free coffee and bagels after each run, plus fitness and friends.
The Cottage is offering a prix fixe, 4-course Mother’s Day meal.
From noon to 5 p.m. next Sunday (May 12; $110 per adult, $55 per child, not including tax and tip), chef Brian Lewis rolls out the red carpet for Mom and her family.
When Fantasia headlined a tribute to Clive Davis recently at Carnegie Hall, she did so with her voice — and an elegant gown.
It was designed, Essence says, by Christian Siriano, “who has built quite a name for himself in the fashion industry. The lavender long sleeve dress featured a leg slit and a black feather trim all around the gown, causing a dramatic, old Hollywood effect.”
Siriano is — in addition to being a former Project Runway winner — a Westporter. His Collective West collection is on Post Road West.
Click here for the full Essence story. (Hat tip: Danielle Teplica)
Fantasia, and her Christian Siriano gown. (Photo courtesy of Essence)
Lift Wellness will hold a ribbon cutting for the opening of its mental health and eating disorder partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient treatment for teens and adults at their 8 Myrtle Avenue location on May 17 (11 a.m.).
The timing is appropriate: This is Mental Health Awareness Month.
Attendees can enjoy food, take a tour, and pick up swag. Click here for more information.
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo highlights the Longshore golf course, in full, beautiful bloom:
And finally … Fantasia was wearing a non-Christian Siriano outfit (see story above) in this 411 million-view video.
But she still looks (and sounds) great.
(From high fashion to homeless shelters, “06880” has our town covered. This is “where Westport meets the world.” We rely on reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)
This morning’s 4.8 magnitude earthquake — the third strongest within 50 miles of New York City since 1950 — was a compelling reminder of the power of nature.
For 10 to 15 seconds, from Philadelphia to Boston, the ground shook, floors vibrated, and walls rattled. The epicenter was Whitehouse Station, New Jersey — 106 miles from here.
Westport Police report no damage. But there were plenty of surprised, and a few shaken, residents.
Today’s earthquake, measured by the Westport Astronomical Society. (Courtesy of Franco Fellah)
Most Westporters have not experienced a major earthquake. I was in the 1994 6.7 magnitude Northridge quake that killed 57 people, injured 9,000 and caused $40 billion in damage.
It was the scariest event I’ve ever been through.
I had arrived in Los Angeles the day before, to do some interviews for a book I was writing. I checked into my West Hollywood hotel, had dinner and went to sleep,
At 4:30 a.m. I was awakened by enormous shaking, and deafening noises. My first thought was that a plane had crashed into the building.
Then I realized it was an earthquake.
I remembered something about quakes and doorways. But I couldn’t recall if I was supposed to stand in one, or get far away.
It didn’t matter. My bed shook so violently, I could not get out of it. Meanwhile, shelves in the closet fell onto the floor.
After 20 seconds — which seemed like 20 years — it stopped.
I rushed to the balcony, to see what was going on. Foolishly, I did not realize the balcony might not be there.
Fortunately, it was.
I looked around. A man stood on the balcony next to mine.
“Holy shit!” he said. “I’ve lived in California all my life. That was the worst earthquake ever.”
It was — right up there with the “World Series” Loma Prieta Bay Area earthquake of 1989.
And the epicenter was 15 miles from me. Smoke rose in the distance.
Then I heard the noises. Every home and car alarm in the area was ringing. So were the sirens of every police, fire and emergency vehicle.
One view of the aftermath of the Northridge earthquake …
I never did those interviews. I spent the next couple of days in a state of tension. Aftershocks came randomly.
Walking down the street, the rumbling would begin. I’d lock eyes with strangers; we’d wonder, silently: Is this another big one?
Then it would end.
Ten seconds later, a pane of glass might land at my feet.
The New York Times notes that the Northridge quake was “more than 700 times as strong as the temblor in New York on Friday.”
… and 2 others.
Aftershocks may continue here in Westport, experts say. There is a 3% chance that one will be “large.”
Earthquakes are unlike any other natural disaster.
In every other one — hurricanes, blizzards, tornadoes — there are warnings, or at least time to prepare.
An earthquake happens suddenly. There is no warning. And there is little anyone can do, until it ends.
At 10:23 this morning, Westporters learned what people in California — and Turkey, Japan and many other places — have long known.
No surprise: Joe Biden and Donald Trump won their respective parties’ votes.
In the Democratic primary, Biden collected 710 votes. There were 29 ballots cast for “Uncommitted,” 7 for Marianne Williamson, and 3 for Dean Phillips.
In the Republican primary, Trump got 184 votes. There were 72 ballots for Nikki Haley, 23 for “Uncommitted,” and 4 for Ron DeSantis.
Statewide, Biden and Trump also prevailed, with about 85% and 78% of their respective parties’ votes. Only 1.4% of the state’s voters participated.
But there was one surprise: In the first-ever week of early voting, Westport had the third highest turnout of voters in the entire state.
Hamden led with 1,197 early voters. Wallingford was next, with 506.
Westport was not far behind: 460 residents cast early ballots (361 Democrats, 99 Republicans).
As Election Day voting began (background of the photo below), Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas presented a (tiny) trophy to Westport’s registrars of voters: Democrat Deborah Greenberg (left) and Republican Maria Signore.
VersoFest 2024 kicks off today (Wednesday, April 3).
It’s the first of 5 days celebrating music, media, and creativity, with concerts, panels, workshops and more.
The Westport Library’s annual music and media conference and festival is “where knowledge is shared and inspiration is discovered — a forum for media creators, artists, and fans to converge.”
Up to 6,000 guests are expected.
Headliners include Chuck D (Public Enemy), producer Tony Visconti (David Bowie, T. Rex), drummer John Densmore (The Doors), plus Cindy and Dennis Dunaway, Tish & Snooky of Manic Panic, the Cold Crush Brothers, Tony Tone, Grand Wizzard Theodore, and author Audrey Golden.
This year’s shows include the Thursday night kickoff with the Lemon Twigs, and Friday’s concert headlined by the Spin Doctors.
Okay, that won’t get me the job. But if you’re more qualified than I:
It’s National Poetry Month, and the town has begun searching for a new poet laureate. Current poet Jessica Noyes McEntee’s 2-year appointment ends July 1.
He or she serves as a cultural ambassador, promoting poetry appreciation and literacy throughout town.
The ideal candidate is a published poet with a strong connection to Westport, and a passion for sharing their love of poetry with others.
The Poet Laureate is responsible for creating and delivering original poems for significant civic events, hosting workshops and readings, and collaborating with local schools and organizations.
Click here for more information, and the application. The deadline is May 10.
Questions? Email waac@westportct.gov, with the subject line “Poet.”
Westport’s first and second poet laureates Diane Lowman (left) and Jessie Noyes McEntee on the Westport Library screen. (Photo/Dave Matlow)
Tomorrow (April 4, 5 to 9 p.m.) is when Westport Police Department officers will “work” with the wait staff at Rizzuto’s restaurant. Customers are encouraged to leave extra tips. They all go to Special Olympics Connecticut.
Our police are known as Westport’s finest. Thanks to the force, Rizzuto’s and Special Olympics, for this very “fine” idea.
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Aaron Fortunoff is a Staples High School freshman. His brother Brett Fortunoff is in 7th grade at Bedford Middle School. Both boys have big hearts and great goals. They write:
“In the spirit of giving and being thankful, we can’t forget about those who are less fortunate and fail to receive a proper daily breakfast — the most important meal of the day.
“So we teamed up with a non-profit called Cereal4All that helps provide cereals to local food pantries. We hope ‘06880’ readers can help us with this important cause.
“For local readers, we will be by both entrances of Stop & Shop this Sunday (April 7, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.). We will then deliver the collected cereal to food pantries in Fairfield County.
“There will also be a collection box at Temple Israel in Westport throughout May.
“For readers who are not local, we created an Amazon wish listyou can donate to. Also, you can Venmo our mother: @lauriefortunoff. She will buy cereal with the money raised: You can also click here and donate directly to the charity. The donation is tax deductible.
Aaron and Brett Fortunoff, at their first Cereal4All drive last year.
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The Westport Astronomical Society shines a light on the early universe, at their next free online lecture series.
Robert A. Simcoe, director of MIT’s Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research, discusses “Science in the Early Universe with the James Webb Space Telescope” (April 16, 8 p.m.).
He studies the formation of the earliest stars and galaxies by constructing custom-built spectrometers for major astronomical observatories.
The Fresh Market ospreys are not our only raptors.
The Sherwood Island Mill Pond birds of prey are back too on the west side, opposite the oyster house, Chris Swan says.
The other two nearby nests — one near I-95 accessible from Grove Point Road, the other opposite the Nature Center in the Sherwood Island State Park salt marsh — appear to have occupants, though Chris says the combination of clouds and his weak eyes preclude a definite “yes.”
The nearby Burying Hill platform appears empty, Chris says.
Sherwood Island Mill Pond osprey nest. (Photo/Chris Swan)
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In 2021, Westporters Eva Grant-Rawiszer and Diana Sussman created — with 2 other women — “Virtually Ours.”
Our show was created in 2021.
The musical rom-com about 5 very busy professionals in their late 20s and early 30s who turn to an unusual AI-driven dating app to find their perfect mate was selected by the Spark Theater Festival New York City.
It was presented last month to a full house, at an Emerging Artists Theater showcase.
Click here for highlights. Click below for the sizzle reel.
Longtime Westport resident Winifred Keane passed away peacefully Monday, in Wallingford. She was 93.
She was born in Beijing in 1931, where her father was a naval doctor. She had an itinerant childhood. The family eventually settled in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.
In 1952 Winifred earned a BFA degree in voice and composition from the University of Pennsylvania where she met her first husband, CommonFund founder George Keane. They had three children: award-winning composer and musician Brian Keane; cellist Geoffrey Keane, and physical therapist, Dr. Sheila Keane.
After moving to the Berkshires as a new mother, Winifred directed a church choir. She sang and composed music for them, and won 2 scholarships to Tanglewood.
Moving to Westport in 1957, Winifred studied voice with Metropolitan Opera bass Alexander Kipnis. She made her Carnegie Hall debut as lyric soprano in 1962 to critical acclaim.
Winifred performed her compositions in concert halls including Columbia and Yale Universities, Lincoln Center and the Charles Ives Festival in Danbury.
After obtaining teaching certification in music from Western Connecticut State University she taught children in New Canaan, and adults at Fairfield University. She also had private students, and ran The Creative Music Studio in Westport for several years. Later, she took up the French horn and played in bands, orchestras and solo recitals.
Winifred received an MFA degree in composition from Sarah Lawrence College. Her woodwind and percussion compositions were premiered there under Saul Goodman of the New York Philharmonic in 1972.
Her interest in world music drew her to sing Indian ragas at Wesleyan University, and folk songs in Mandarin with Chinese traditional instrumentalists.
She was the recipient of commissions, awards and prizes for her compositions from the Westport Arts Center, the National League of American Pen Women, and the National Endowment of the Arts. Her composition “International Greeting” was commissioned by the US Coast Guard Band.
She wrote compositions for opera, oratorio, choral, songs, orchestra, band, instrumental, sacred music, electronic and microtonal music. One of her more renowned pieces involved electronically processed recordings of Siamese cats, with vocal soloist and Moog synthesizer, which was choreographed for ballet.
She was a founding member of Connecticut Composers Inc. Later, she became interested in poetry, and was published by the Fellowship of Quakers in the Arts.
Winifred lived in Westport for 54 years, before moving to Ashlar Village in Wallingford in 2011.
She was a long-time member of the Religious Society of Friends in Wilton and Middletown. She was a prominent member in Al-Anon. When she moved to Ashlar Village she got involved with various arts and poetry groups.
Winifred Keane was predeceased by her sisters Lorraine Morey and Jean Albright; her ex-husbands George Keane and Harvey Brickman, and long-time companion and fellow Westporter Walter Schlenker. She is survived by her children Brian, Geoffrey and Sheila; grandchildren Wylder and Dylan Keane, and sisters Mary Weightman, Barbara Schauber and Carol Amling.
A memorial service is set for Sunday, April 7 (2 p.m., Chapel at Masonicare Health Center, Ashlar Village, Wallingford; click here for the livestream.
There will be a smaller Quaker memorial at Wilton Meetinghouse on Saturday, April 13 (2 p.m.).
In lieu of flowers, consider donations to the Wilton Quaker Meeting to support programs for social justice, environmental activism and education.
Winifred Keane
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows spring trying hard to arrive at Covlee Drive on Saugatuck Shores:
And finally … in honor of Westport’s search for a new poet laureate (story above) — and Sunday’s story about Phil Ochs — let’s listen to the folk singer’s haunting rendition of Alfred Noyes’ classic poem “The Highwayman”:
(Wow! We crammed a ton into today’s Roundup. If you appreciate this daily feature — or anything else about “06880” — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)
The first year with First Student — Westport’s new school bus company — has gone well.
Now, the long-awaited bus tracking app is live. FirstView can be downloaded on any smartphone, desktop or laptop.
The app lets families track the location and direction of their child’s bus. Other features include customizable bus proximity notifications; custom alerts and messages, and multi-stop views.
Click here to get started. Questions? Call 888-889-8920, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., or email support@firstviewapp.com.
You may come to “Dante: Inferno to Paradise” for the subject.
You’ll stay for the music.
Ric Burns’ new 2-part series on the 14th-century poet airs this Monday and Tuesday (March 18 and 19) on PBS. Dante’s “Divine Comedy” — his account of a life-changing journey through Hell, Purgatory and Paradise — is one of the greatest works of art in Western history.
The 4-hour show was filmed across 6 years in Italy, England and the US. it includes paintings, drawings, manuscripts, frescoes, and interviews with scholars, writers, poets, politicians, clergy and historians.
But the 4-hour show soars on the beautiful, deeply moving soundtrack. It was composed by Burns’ long-time collaborator, veteran Grammy, Oscar and Peabody Award winner Brian Keane.
The very accomplished composer/musician is a 1971 graduate of Staples High School.
Brian Keane
Keane’s hauntingly beautiful score brings alive Dante’s life and work, in a hallucinatory, almost cinematically vivid way. It captures the depth and breadth of Dante’s experiences in the 3 realms of the afterlife.
“Dante” will stream for free on PBS for 2 weeks after the broadcast. It will then go to PBS subscription, and eventually pay-per-view.
Excerpts of the music score ere premiered at the Westport Library Orchestra Lumos concert earlier this month.
The single will be released March 22. The album follows a week later.
There is a new date for the fundraiser to provide new AEDs in all fire, police and Emergency Medical Service vehicles in town.
Automated External Defibrillators are portable devices that deliver electric shocks to the heart during cardiac arrest. The current ones are reaching the ends of their useful lives.
On April 24 (5:30 to 10 p.m., Autostrada), the Westport Firefighters Charitable Foundation hosts its 2nd annual Whiskey Tasting.
The evening includes drinks, light bites, and a silent auction. The target is $75,000.
Many of us know people whose lives have been saved by AEDs. Any of us could be next.
When Amazon Fresh planned to open in the old Barnes & Noble — that’s the long-vacant store in the Angelina’s Pizza plaza, for you newcomers — they ran into some issues with their sign.
Last year, they bailed. The site became a “zombie store” — one of a number of Amazon Freshes nationwide that were abandoned, after being announced with great fanfare.
Next month, astronomy buffs across the world head to Texas. That’s where, on April 8, they can see a total eclipse along the totality line.
But Westport will be part of the event too.
The Westport Astronomical Society and its amateur radio station club (K1WAS) — along with other amateur radio operators and balloon enthusiasts — will help launch high-altitude balloons with cameras, sensors and radio transmitters, to capture the eclipse from a vantage point high above the Earth’s surface.
The WAS project is a collaboration with the University of Bridgeport and the University of New Haven, through the Nationwide Eclipse Ballooning Project.
“We are thrilled to contribute to the scientific community’s understanding of this celestial event,” says WAS board member. Dan Wright. “These high altitude balloon missions will offer a perspective of the eclipse that is both breathtaking and informative, helping researchers study the Sun’s corona and the Earth’s atmosphere in new and exciting ways.”
Amateur radio operators and astronomy enthusiasts can follow the balloon’s location, and participate in related events and discussions. Details will be posted soon on the Westport Astronomical Society website.
The total solar eclipse, a rare event in which the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, will be visible across parts of North America. The sun is only 90% obscured in Westport and much of New England.
But the WAS will host a “watch party” at the Westport Library (April 8, 2 to 4 p.m.).
In Connecticut, the next partial solar eclipse is not until 2028. It will not obscure the sun anywhere near what we’ll see in April, though.
For that, you have to wait until May 1, 2079.
Mark your calendars now!
Here’s what the April 8 eclipse will look like. You saw it here first!
And finally … in honor of next month’s Westport Astronomical Society event (story above):
(Today — and every day — “06880” serves up a potpourri of news, information and “stuff.” But we couldn’t do it without reader support. Please click here to help. Thank you!)
Westport Parks & Recreation Department spring and summer program offerings are now online. There are 2 registration dates.
Registration is now open for Camp Compo and RECing Crew.
Registration begins at 9 a.m. tomorrow (Wednesday, March 6) for all other spring and summer programs.
If a program is full, names can be added to the waitlist. There is no charge at that time.
Parents should click here to access their account.
Log into your profile and choose “Manage Family Member” on the bottom right. This brings you to the “My Family Members” page. Click on the first name in the column. In “Family Member Information,” verify date of birth, and make sure that children’s grades are correct (it is the grade going into as of September 2024). Hit “Save” at the bottom. Complete the process for every family member.
For address changes, email recreation@westportct.gov. For problems, including inability to log in to your account, email recreation@westportct.gov or call 203-341-5152. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Summer Learning Clubs integrate math, literacy and STEAM activities into a thematic approach. Each class blends inquiry, design, research, writing, and the arts.
Taught by certified teachers, the program melds traditional academic activities into a project-based learning experience and student-driven study. The Library offers 3 sessions for students entering 1st through 8th grades.
Starting June 25 and running until August 14, weekly sessions include plant science, collage and mosaic, poetry, environmental sciences, paper and print making, music, and edible science.
In addition to Camp Explore and the Summer Learning Clubs, the Children’s Library’s early literacy programming will continue throughout the summer. For details, click here.
Camp Explore and the Summer Learning Clubs are sponsored by Roz and Bud Siegel.
Painter, poet, writer, actor, playwright and arts educator Iyaba Ibo Mondingo will teacher sculpture this summer.
Staples High School Class of 2016 graduate Gillian Rozynek is the Queen of Charcuterie.
During a college semester in Madrid, she was intrigued by the combination of meats, cheeses and sides — and the way people ate them communally, and on the go.
When the pandemic struck, Gillian spent the summer of 2020 participating in Boston College’s summer accelerator program.
She launched Kured as a build-your-own charcuterie delivery startup in Boston. Now there’s a second location, in Greenwich Village.
Yesterday, Kellyu Clarkson interviewed Gillian on her NBC show. She described Kured as “the Chipotle of Charcuterie” — and announced that Pilot Pen was giving Gillian $1,000.
Click here for Gillian’s fun segment. (Hat tip: Julie Whamond)
Screen shot of Gillian Rozynek, on the Kelly Clarkson Show.
Charlie Capalbo’s battle with lymphoma and leukemia inspired countless people, locally and across the nation.
The 2017 graduate of Fairfield Ludlowe High School — and grandson of noted Westport writer Ina Chadwick — was a 3-time recipient of cells from his brother Will. The procedure helped Charlie live a few extra years, before he died in 2022.
To help cancer research — and because Charlie was a passionate hockey goalie — his friends and family have a special “Capalbo Strong” Night this Saturday (March 9, 7 p.m., Total Mortgage Arena, Bridgeport), when the Bridgeport Islanders host the Hartford Wolf Pack.
Tickets are just $24.24. Each ticket includes a donation to the Jimmy Fund via Capalbo Strong; free parking; an Islanders hat, and a 15% concessions discount.
There’s also a National Marrow Donor Program drive. Everyone ages 18 to 35 is encouraged to visit the Harbor Club at the arena, to register with NMDP.
How important is bone marrow registration? Last year, as an Albertus Magnus College senior, Will Capalbo ran a drive with his lacrosse team. Out of 65 registrations, they’ve already had 3 matches and 2 donations.
C-SPAN’s Student Cam contest is looking for the best student documentary in the country. The 15 finalists include one produced at Weston High School.
Nate Colman and Jonah Rothlein’s film “Innocents Held Hostage” tells the story of Morad Tahbaz, a Weston resident held captive in an Iranian prison for 6 years.
The film explores Morad’s harrowing experience, and examines the strained relations between the US and Iran. It includes interviews with New York Times journalist Michael Shear, Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congressman Jim Himes, and Tahbaz.
Through March 10, the film is part of a “fan favorite vote.” Click below to see the full 14-minute documentary.
“06880” readers know Ken Runkel from his spectacular photos in our Saturday morning online art gallery.
This Thursday (March 7, 5 to 8 p.m.), you can enjoying them in sizes much larger than a computer or phone screen.
Serendipity Labs (55 Post Road West) hosts an art reception for his new exhibit, with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. It’s free; register by email at concierge.westport@serendipitylabs.com.
“Spy Balloons” (Ken Runkel)
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Young piano wizard Caelan Cardello first played Jazz at the Post last year. He blew everyone away.
This Thursday he and 2 other young musicians — bassist Mikey Migliore and drummer Aaron Seeber — join veteran saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall, to kick off March (Jazz) Madness.
There are 2 shows at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399: 7:30 and 8:45 p.m. Dinner service begins at 7. The music cover charge is $20 ($15 for students and veterans). Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.
The other day, “06880” ran a photo of a license plate propped up against the flag pole at the Westport post office.
It’s gone now. Randi Mondshine reclaimed it, and put it back on her car.
I’d like to say “06880” is responsible for the happy ending. But we’re not: when the plate went missing, she realized it must have been knocked off when she parked in a snow bank in the lot.
However, “06880” does figure into the story. The day she retrieved it, Randi was reading our “Roundup.”
There was a photo of her license plate, propped against a tree.
She thanks the Good Samaritan who found it, and placed it in a spot where it could easily be seen. By the owner, and a blogger.
(Photo/Dan Woog)
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On Sunday, the “06880” Roundup included a photo of a plastic bin filled with tennis balls.
Vuori put them by the drinking fountain at Winslow Park, for dogs to snag and play with.
The idea was a winner. Just a day later, they were nearly all gone.
Soon — as Vuori’s sign recommends — the bin itself will be ready for re-use.
Are you ready for Solar Cycle 25, and NASA’s Heliophysics Big Year/
The Westport Astronomical Society is.
Their free online lecture series continues March 19 (8 p.m.), with Dr. Lisa Upton of the Southwest Research Institute.
She’ll discuss how the solar cycle compares to the prediction she shared with the WAS in 2021, and what we can expect from the sun over the next few years.
On a gray day, Gray’s Creek at low tide is a great subject for our “Westport … Naturally” feature:
(Photo/Tracy Porosoff)
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And finally … in honor of the upcoming Westport Astronomical Society event, I wanted to post a “sun” song.
I could have chosen a squintillion. “Here Comes the Sun”? “House of the Rising Sun”? “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore”?
Nah.
I had to go with the simplest title: “The Sun.”
But wait! There’s more!
This song — which 99% of “06880” readers have never heard of — is by a Yonkers-based band called The Chain Reaction.
Staples High School concert-goers from the 1960s know where this is heading.
In 1966, they opened for the Yardbirds — with Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck — in our own auditorium.
But wait! There’s more!
The Chain Reaction’s lead singer was Steve Tallarico. He later changed it to Steve Tyler. Yep, that Steve Tyler — the Aerosmith guy.
But wait! There’s even more!
That Yardbirds gig at Staples was a pivotal moment in young Steve’s career. It inspired him to have a career in music.
In 1995, he told that story when Aerosmith inducted Led Zeppelin in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.
It’s played on an endless loop there ever since. Listen below:
And now, without further ado: The Chain Reaction’s “The Sun.” Co-written by a very young Steve Tallarico.
(“06880” is where Westport meets the world — and Steve Tyler. If you enjoy our musical selections (or anything else on this hyper-local blog), please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Startup Westport — the public/private partnership working to turn Westport into a tech entrepreneurs’ innovation hub — drew a sold-out crowd to the Library on Thursday.
Dan Bikel — a Westporter and key member of Meta’s AI team — offered fascinating insights into the future of generative artificial intelligence.
Future Startup Westport events include focuses on women and minorities in tech. Click here to be added to their mailing list.
From left: Stefano Pacifico, Jay Norris, Dan Bikel and Cliff Sirlin. All helped found Startup Westport.
The Westport Library kicks off 2024 with 3 new art installations. They run through mid-March.
“How Beautiful, the Universe: Astrophotography by members of the Westport Astronomical Society” (Sheffer Gallery) includes 25 powerful cosmic images.
“Zen Meditations” by sculptor Lucy Krupenye, who specializes in found objects, is featured in the South Gallery. An artist reception and talk is set for January 31.
“Awakenings” — a series of nature photos by Terry Tannen — includes a reception on February 12.
Astrophotography is a special art.
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Dave Brubeck — a longtime area resident who earned a Kennedy Center Honor, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, before his death in 2012 a day before his 92nd birthday — lives on.
The Brubeck Brothers Quartet is set for a special fundraising event March 9, (Westport Library). Proceeds support the Library’s vast array of free programs and offerings.
The Brubeck Brothers Quartet is led by Chris (bass and trombone) and Dan Brubeck (drums), sons of the jazz legend. They recorded their first record in 1966. Rounding out the group is guitarist Mike DeMicco and pianist Chuck Lamb.
They have performed across North America and Europe, including Newport, Detroit, Montreal, The Hollywood Bowl, and Monterey Jazz festivals.
General admission tickets are $75. VIP tickets ($125) include a pre-event reception with the Brubeck family and gifts, including a vinyl LP exclusive pressing of “Time OutTakes,” featuring previously unreleased takes from the original Brubeck masterpiece “Time Out” — the first jazz album to sell 1 million copies.
Louis Weinberg describes today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo:
‘The red squirrel stores food for the winter in large underground caches. It is particularly fond of the black walnuts prevalent in the Long Lots Preserve. Additionally, it taps sugar maple trees for the syrup. It is a wily veteran of mixed hardwood-conifer forests.”
Staples High School’s Internship Program is a win-win-win.
Every spring, talented and eager seniors leave school 3-4 weeks before graduation. They spend the final month out in the real world.
They work everywhere: retail stores, salons, restaurants, non-profits, medical offices, financial firms, design shops, farms, marketing companies, photography studios, publishers … you name it. If there’s a job to be learned and done, they do it.
(And not just in Westport. Interns head to New York City — even beyond.)
The work and real life experience they gain is invaluable. The energy, creativity — and help — they bring to the workplace is huge. And the internships get them out of high school at a time when senioritis would otherwise kick in (that’s the third “win”).
But as hard as they work, the program coordinators work equally hard right now arranging 420 or so internships.
So they’re asking the greater “06880” community: Can you help?
Do you need a senior (or 2, or 3) for daily onsite (or remote) work? Perhaps you’re beefing up your social media presence. Or looking for research help, design work, web content, data entry. Or hundreds of other tasks.
You can be a small, medium or large size firm– or a single proprietor. Maybe you were an intern once yourself, and want to give back.
Internships begin May 20. Students are expected to work 5 hours a day for 3-4 weeks, onsite, remotely or in a hybrid model. Program leaders provide guidance and oversight.
The Board of Finance holds a special meeting this Monday (December 11, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).
There is one agenda item: “Second discussion of the Long Lots Building Project.” It’s a discussion only; no vote will be taken.
The Long Lots Elementary School building project’s next step is the Board of Finance. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)
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Speaking of local politics: 1st Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker is seeking residents registered to vote in Westport to serve on the Fair Rent Commission. This group, was recently established by the Representative Town Meeting.
Five members will be appointed to staggered 4-year terms. Click here for the full language of the ordinance, including its makeup and powers.
In addition to the Fair Rent Commission, Westport residents with varying interests, talents, backgrounds and political affiliations are encouraged to volunteer to serve on other appointed committees that currently have vacancies or upcoming member term limits:
Architectural Review Board
Arts Advisory Committee
Blight Prevention Board
Commission for Senior Services
Conservation Commission
Flood and Erosion Control Board (Alternates)
Historic District Commission
Parks Advisory Committee
Tree Board
Youth Commission
Click here for descriptions of the roles and responsibilities of these appointed boards, commissions and committees.
Registered voters seeking any appointment should submit an Interest Form, including a brief description of your background, biography or resume to selectwoman@westportct.gov.
Westport’s November residential home real estate market was stronger than a year ago.
There were 25 unit sales — up 8.7% compared to November 2022.
The median sales price of $1,75 million was up 9.7%; the median sales price per square foot of $434 is a 3% increase.
76% of homes sold for 95% or more of the list price. 84% sold within 90 days of listing.
The inventory of 91 homes represents a 12.5% decline compared to a year ago. The days on market — 48 — is a 15.8% decline. (Hat tip: Meredith Cohen/Raveis)
This 5-bedroom, 5 1/2-bathroom house at 2 Owenoke Park is listed for $8.795 million. It is 4,820 square feet, on 0.47 acres.
La Plage celebrates the holidays with 2 special dinners.
There are 3-course prix fixe meals on Christmas Eve (4 to 10 p.m.) and Christmas Day (noon to 7 p.m.; $90 per person; $55 for 12 and under; $20 for kid’s menu). Click here for the menu, and reservations (required).
New Year’s Eve features a la carte seating from 5 to 7 p.m. A gala dinner, with 5- course tasting menu, is served from 8:30 on. Click here for the menu, and reservations.
Speaking of the holidays: It will be a cold one in Lyman, Ukraine. For the second winter in a row, our sister city is dealing with the effects of Russia’s invasion.
Brian Mayer — the Westporter who co-founded Ukraine Aid International — is in Lyman this week.
Yesterday, he sent a video. It shows both the destruction, and the opportunity to help.
Our goal this month is to raise $60,000. That would pay for 2 wood pellet machines. Each provides pellets to heat 1,000 homes. In just 96 hours, “06880” readers have donated nearly $51,000.
With your help, the machines can be funded — and delivered — by Christmas. $30 will heat one home all winter. $300 will heat 10. $3,000 will heat 100. And 3 of those $3,000 donations will enable us to reach our goal.
To donate by credit card, click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo. Thank you!
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Pizza and a play.
That’s on the menu December 20. Westport Country Playhouse hosts “Together at the Table Family Dinner,” before a performance of the holiday production “A Sherlock Carol.” Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for a pizza dinner, followed by the show at 7.
Families can enjoy a communal dinner in the Playhouse’s rehearsal barn and a casual conversation with an artist from the show before the performance together – all for $10 per ticket (must attend as a family, with student-age children. For reservations, call 203-227-4177.
“A Sherlock Carol” runs from December 19-23. Click here for the full schedule, and more information.
Former 1st Selectwoman Diane Farrell returns to Westport.
This time, she’s the deputy under secretary for international trade, in the office of the Deputy Undersecretary of Commerce.
She’ll speak to the Westport Sunrise Rotary Club this Friday (December 15, 7:45 a.m.,; coffee, bagels and muffins at 7; Green’s Farms Congregational Church).
Kerri Rosenthal turns its attention from women’s clothes to women’s work.
On Tuesday (December 12, 6 to 8 p.m.), the Main Street store hosts a launch and discussion for Dr. Hilary Berger’s new book, “Work Like a Mother: Rewriting the Script for a Mother’s Career and Wellness Journey.”
Congratulations to Staples High School’s December Students of the Month: seniors Deneil Betfarhad and William Lacend Duprey; juniors Elsa D’Elia, Christina Kavanah and Kelpin Gomez Ramos; sophomore Reese Rein, and freshmen Lila Roach and Simon Van Aken.
Students of the Month “help make Staples a welcoming place for their peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the Staples community: the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together, making it the special place that it is.”
Staples Students of the Month (from left): Simon Van Aken, Lila Roach, Kelpin Gomez Ramos, Deneil Betfarhad, Christina Kavanah, Elsa D’Elia, William Lacend Duprey. Missing: Reese Rein.
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Speaking of Staples: 1979 graduate and Clemson University men’s soccer head coach Mike Noonan is headed to the NCAA championship.
His Tigers beat West Virginia University 1-0 yesterday in the Division I semifinal. They face Notre Dame in Monday’s final (6 p.m.).
Noonan had a legendary soccer career at Staples, helping lead the Wreckers to the 1978 state championship. After earning All-America status at Middlebury College, he played professionally — including in Louisville, where the Final 4 is being held.
Several of Noonan’s former Staples teammates and friends made the trip there for yesterday’s match, including Rich Hiltz, Eric Strausser and Dan Donovan. Donovan’s son Paddy is a reserve goalkeeper for Clemson.
Mike Noonan greets Westport fans after yesterday’s NCAA Division I semifinal win.
The Westport Astronomical Society’s free online lecture series continues December 19 (8 p.m.), with an out-of-this-world topic.
Dr. Catherine S. Plesko will discuss “Planetary Defense: Using Supercomputers to Prevent Asteroid Impacts on Earth.” She is the principal investigator for planetary defense at Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Claudia Sherwood Servidio offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” image from Main Street near Willowbrook Cemetery, with this comment: “There’s still color out there!”
And finally … in honor of Dr. Hilary Berger’s book launch (story above):
(Once again — as we’ve done every day since 2009 — “06880” delivers tons of useful, hyper-local news and information. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Tonight is the night we turn our clocks back one hour, to “standard time.” (Though with Daylight Savings Time now in place for nearly 8 months, isn’t that the “standard”?)
The good news: We get an extra hour of sleep.
The bad news: We get an extra hour of all that “traffic-gedddon,” during the I-95 bridge slide.
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Speaking of this weekend’s bridgework, here’s a photo from this morning:
From now through December 21, then starting again after midterms in January, the Westport Library is teaming with Staples High School students on a “near-peer” tutoring program.
The program — held in the Children’s Library — features Staples students tutoring middle school and elementary schoolers in subjects including English, math, science, social studies, programming and Mandarin
The drop-in program runs between 4 and 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Tutor availability is posted weekly. Click here for the schedule.
All tutors are past participants, or received a letter of recommendation from a current or previous teacher.
Adults with students under the age of 12 must stay in the Children’s Library during the session.
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Thanksgiving is less than 3 weeks away. Pie time!
Wakeman Town Farm’s 4th annual Pie Sale is on. They’ve partnered with Earth Animal’s Mitten project initiative, to raise funds for Connecticut Food Share.
Oronoque Farms is baking apple and blueberry pies (traditional and crumb; served at room temperature or slightly warmed), as well as Pumpkin Pies (frozen and ready to bake; instructions provided).
Orders close November 17. Pick-ups are Tuesday, November 21 (4 to 7 p.m., Wakeman Town Farm). Click here to order, and for more information.
Blueberry crumb pie.
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Westport Transit District director Peter Gold reminds residents:
Many people know about the Westport Transit District’s Wheels2U service from their front door to the Westport and Greens Farms train stations. Less well known are services for the elderly and people with a disability.
The WTD provides an in-town service for the elderly and people with a disability, and a town-to-town service for people with a disability. Like Wheels2U, both services use handicap accessible vans.
The in-town service takes anyone with a disability, and anyone age 65 or over (whether or not they have a disability), anywhere within Westport, for $3.50. Rides must be booked a day in advance. Personal care assistants accompanying an elderly passenger or a passenger with a disability ride free.
The town-to-town service takes anyone with a disability to destinations in Norwalk, Wilton, Weston, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich. The fare is $3.50 each time a town border is crossed. (For example, a ride within Westport is $3.50; a ride to Darien is $10.50). Again, personal care assistants accompanying a passenger with a disability ride free.
Click here for more information, including how to book and pay for rides. Click here for information on Wheels2U.
Dionne Pia is the Westport Book Shop’s guest exhibitor for November. She exhibits 2 large-school paintings: “Brave New World” and “Galaxy.”
She earned a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design. She also studied Russian icon painting, and landscape graphics. Dionne is a member of the Artists Collective of Westport. Her work has been exhibited in many shows throughout Connecticut.
Sustainable Westport’s second Residential Energy Learning series focuses on solar energy. “Everything Solar” is set for the Westport Library on November 7 (6:30 p.m., reception, 6:45 presentation and Q-and-A).
Westport architect John Rountree and Nathan Hernandez, solar consultant, will discuss how to transition your home or business to solar energy. They’ll cover solar panels, installation companies, design considerations, the expected ROI, and financing options (with federal and state incentives).
Westporter Dan Schlesinger will talk about his recent process of going solar.
Rodolfo Soto returns to the Westport Country Playhouse.
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It’s the lecture you’ve been waiting for!
Westport Astronomical Society’s free online lecture series continues November 21 (8 p.m.) with Dr. Slava Turyshev. The NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory research scientist will discuss “Imaging and Spectroscopy of Exoplanets Using Solar Gravitational Lensing.”
(Hmmm … what to do with those extra 60 minutes? So many possibilities … including making a donation to “06880.” It’s easy — just click here. Thank you very much!)
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