“06880” culture correspondent Robin Moyer Chung writes:
How prescient and timely is Westport Community Theatre’s “The Matchmaker,” a comedy about an egotistic wealthy businessman who is outmaneuvered by those over which he assumes superiority?
Written by Thornton Wilder in 1954, “The Matchmaker” inspired the beloved musical “Hello, Dolly!.” Aside from knocking out a few ancillary characters and throwing in a brilliant score, the musical adheres closely to his original script (itself a rewrite of his earlier work, “The Merchant of Yonkers,” 1938).
Set in 1880 Yonkers and New York City, the story follows Dolly Levi, a widowed matchmaker hired by shop owner and curmudgeon Horace Vandergelder to find him a young wife. Instead, she decides to marry him herself (and put his money to good use), then tricks him into thinking it was his idea.
Lucy Babbitt as Dolly Levi.
First, a word about WCT.
Community theater is different from other theaters. It exists purely for the love of theater and for those devoted to creating and sustaining it. There’s no paycheck, and little glory beyond the applause of an audience that adores theater as much as they do.
Sometimes a show is great; sometimes not so much. But for $30 you can support Westport, see a culturally significant show, and become a thread in the fabric of what makes this town exceptional.
As well, you can witness the hidden talents of neighbors such as commercial real estate investor Ari Benmosche as Malachi Stack, who delivers a delicious soliloquy eulogizing the merits of enjoying only one vice at a time.
WCT’s production is crisp and energetic and, though written more than 70 years ago, sounds fresh and modern. In fact, some of Vandergelder’s lines elicited shocked gasps from the audience: “Marriage is a bribe to make a housekeeper think she’s a householder.” It is a testament to a brilliant character, when one who asserts a smattering of offensive quips and we still like him.
Emily Roberson-Dos Santos and Henry Durham.
Standout performances by Lucy Babbit (Dolly Gallagher Levi) and Patrick Spaulding (Horace Vandergelder), along with their deft handling of Wilder’s sharp dialogue, create a briskly paced show despite several lengthy set changes.
Rick Stewart (Joe Scanlon and Joe the Cabman) delights as Vandergelder’s exasperated barber.
The only thing … perhaps our dear Thornton wasn’t subjected to many tantrums in his life, which may explain why he made Ermengarde (Vandergelder’s lovestruck niece) so whiny. The first time was amusing; then, well, not so much.
You’re welcome to disagree.
(“06880” covers every aspect of Westport’s cultural landscape, from community theater and music to a weekly online art gallery. Like many arts groups, we rely on your support. Please click here. Thx!”
For over 300 years — long before Westport was incorporated as a town — Green’s Farms Church has been a community anchor.
Beyond its importance as a religious congregations, the church has opened its doors to all. These days it hosts numerous groups, a preschool, and much more.
This Sunday (June 14, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.), Green’s Farms Church is throwing a block party. Neighbors, families all around town, local organizations,and mission partners will gather for food, music, games and connection.
The party includes live music, barbecue, an ice cream truck, inflatables, crafts, sport court games, photo booth, sidewalk chalk art, and activities for all ages.
Organizations and partners from across the region will also participate, offering opportunities to learn more about good works happening throughout Westport and beyond.
Sponsored in part by organizations that regularly gather at Green’s Farms Church — including Westport Rotary, Sunrise Rotary, Homes with Hope and Scout Troop 39 — the event will celebrate community.
Everyone is warmly invited. For more information, click here or follow on social media: @greensfarmschurch.
Green’s Farms Congregational Church
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The date and time for Staples High School’s baseball state championship game is set.
The Wreckers face Trumbull on Saturday at noon. The site is Middletown’s Palmer Field. Click here for tickets.
Unfortunately, the boys lacrosse team will not join them in a state championship game. Staples fell to New Canaan yesterday in heartbreaking fashion — 9-8, in sudden-death overtime — in their “LL” semi, at Fairfield University.
It’s a tall order to beat the same team 4 times in one season. The Wreckers had topped the Rams 3 times this spring — including a thrilling sudden-death win in the FCIAC final.
Congratulations to coach Will Koshansky’s squad, on another stellar year.
Speaking of sports: The World Cup kicks off this afternoon. Mexico hosts South Africa, at 3 p.m.
Tomorrow (Friday), the US plays its first match, against Paraguay in Los Angeles. Kickoff is 9 p.m. EDT.
Sure, you can watch them — and many of the other 102 games — at home.
But it will be a lot more fun at The Clubhouse.
The sports bar/restaurant/event space/and more across the Post Road from the Delamar has Westport’s largest TV wall. They’ve added 2 new screens, so every seat now has a view.
They also offer reservations for reservations for smaller rooms. There’s also the roof deck, to watch outdoors.
Click on their website, or follow their Instagram (@theclubhouswestport) for news of watch parties for the biggest games — with DJs and other special attractions. For reservations, click here.
They begin with a recognition of retirees: Horacio Ballesteros, Christina Brooks, Maureen Cadden, Carmela Cerulo, Lisa Doran, Joanne Fasciolo, Gina Forberg, Karen Frawley, Dana Gilland, Ellen Hardy, Cheryl Hersh, Patricia Hines, Kaye Johnson, Jessica Olson, Helena Paiva, Anne Parise, Elaine Perlman, Liz Shaffer and Miguel Valentin.
They’ll also recognize their 2 student representatives — Anwara Olasewere and Souleye Kebe — and PTA co-presidents Lori Freemon, Allison O’Dell, Jennifer Sydor, Alaina Skiber, Sonam Tejpal, Catherine Young,Cheryl Morabito, Christina Royce, Alexis Eisenberg, Lindsay Brachle, Rebekah Wornow, Indy Pereira, Meghan O’Brien, Lindsay Blass, Wendy McConaghy, Gina Christie, Robin Lewis, Stefanie Shackelford and Aileen Brill.
They’ll discuss the recent screen time audit report, and will discuss and act on the employment contract of superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.
Before “Hello, Dolly!,” there was “The Matchmaker.”
Tomorrow (Friday, June 12) the curtain rises on Westport Community Theatre’s production of Thornton Wilder’s “Matchmaker” comedy. Matchmaker.
The original source for “Dolly!” is filled with romance, mischief, mistaken identities and classic characters. Decades later, it’s as fresh, funny and heartwarming as ever. his beloved American classic remains as fresh, funny, and heartwarming today as when it first delighted audiences decades ago.
The cast includes Lucy Babbitt, Ari Benmosche, TJ Chila, Rayne Darken, Henry Durham, Betsy Grover, Martha Hegley, Emily Roberson, Patrick Spaulding, Rick Stewart, Erin Wallace and Jordan Weisblatt. The director is Mark Frattaroli.
Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on June 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 26 and 27, and 2 p.m. on June 14, 21 and 28. The Westport Community Theatre is in the lower level of Town Hall. For tickets, call 203-226-1983 or click here.
Patrick Spaulding and Lucy Babbitt in “The Matchmaker.”
Some people help Homes with Hope with cash donations. Others contribute food for the pantry, or cook and serve meals at the Gillespie Center.
The Lang family gave a car, to Susie’s House.
The vehicle will provide reliable transportation for the young women at the Compo Road North residence.
That’s “one less barrier on the road to independence,” says Homes with Hope president and CEO Helen McAlinden. “This gift will make a real and lasting difference in their lives.
Westport Police made 4 custodial arrests between June 39 and 9.
An 81-year-old Westport woman was charged with criminal trespass and criminal mischief, after a neighbor reported that 3-5 feet had been cut from the tops of 19 green giant arborvitae trees on his yard. The trees could no longer grow taller. He estimated the loss due to damage at $20,000. A review of surveillance video and a neighborhood canvas identified the suspect. She refused to speak to the officer investigating the incident, and ignored multiple requests to respond to police headquarters. Bond was set at $20,000. She was released on a written promise to appear, by order of the state bail commissioner’s office.
A 32-year-old Bridgeport woman was charged with larceny, after an investigation into fraudulent returns processed by a Shoe-Inn employee. The total amount was estimated to be $98,405.65. She was released on a $25,000 bond.
A 30-year-old Concord, New Hampshire woman was charged with larceny and conspiracy to commit larceny, following a shoplifting incident at Walgreens. She is alleged to have taken more than $297 worth of protein shakes. She was unable to post a $50,000 bond.
A 24-year-old Hamden man was charged with illegal operation of a motor vehicle under suspension, theft of a marker plate, improper use of a marker plate and failure to appear, after a license plate reader alert of a stolen license plate. He was released on a $35,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 12 citations
Traveling unreasonably fast: 7
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Texting while driving: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signs: 3
Disorderly conduct: 2
Following too closely: 2
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Illegal operation of a motor vehicle: 1
School zone violation — 2nd offense: 1
Passing a standing school bus: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to obey stop sign: 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Improper turn: 1
Improper use of marker: 1
Unauthorized insurer: 1
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Longtime Westport resident Richard “Bud” Farquhar died peacefully earlier this year in Milton, Georgia, surrounded by his family. He was 93.
He grew up in Redlands, California, in a prominent orange-growing family with a history of military service. Bud was an accomplished horse rider, hard-working student, and farm hand. He met beautiful Barbara Jean Penacho while in Redlands High School. They were married for 60 years.
Bud joined the Navy during the Korean War. He served in Japan with his brother Phil, flying missions in search of submarines. After discharge Bud earned a bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University.
He worked for the Sperry & Hutchinson Company, spending 33 years with Green Stamps. The family moved several times for promotions. They settled in Westport in 1976, where he lived until 2024.
His last role at S&H was national director, sales and marketing, handling over 500 truck stop customers. In 1993 Bud joined Newport Communications as publisher of Truckstop Plaza Magazine.
In 1997 Bud owned and operated Stars & Stripes, LLC which produced annual truck beauty show competitions.
He loved outdoor work, from landscaping at home to firing up the snow blower.
Bud is survived by his son Richard Farquhar Jr. (Shelli) of Marietta, Georgia; daughters Amy Jackson of Milton, Georgia (Peter) and Lori (Milford); grandchildren Nathan, Duncan and Ian Farquhar, and Austin, Rhea and Sage Jackson/
A graveside celebration of life with military honors and internment of ashes will be held tomorrow (June 12, 11 a.m., Hillside Memorial Park, Redlands, California), where Bud will be laid to rest next to his wife Barbara Jean Farquhar.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.
Bud Farquhar
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Wasp nests are things of beauty.
And a bit scary.
Susan Garment spotted this one — a first of the season — underneath a mailbox on Eno Lane. It (complete with wasp) fits right in with our “Westport … Naturally” series — showcasing every variety of life in town.
“06880” culture correspondent Robin Moyer Chung writes:
The Westport Community Theatre is far more passionate about theater than about public relations.
Which is too bad, because that means not enough people may know about their current production. “The Savannah Sipping Society” is terrific. It’s funny, energetic, and a steal at $30 a seat.
Truthfully, I wasn’t expecting the show to knock me over. Perhaps my low expectations raised my appreciation of it, but I’m pretty sure it’s great by any measure.
First, a bit about WCT. I’m pretty sure, judging by Saturday night’s smattering of theater-goers, precious few of you have seen one of their productions.
Now in its 68th season (68!), WCT is a non-profit company run largely by volunteers. It embraces local talent, and provides opportunities to community members for acting, backstage work and directing.
The play, written by Jones Hope Wooten (a 3-woman comedy writing team), is a Southern-based comedy about 4 middle-aged/liminal senior women who wilt out of a hot yoga class, and bond over their shared disdain for it.
From left: Heather DeLude, Gillian Holt, Dandy Barrett, Ellen Krinick Porto. (Photo/Westport Community Theatre)
They’re all single, they all have baggage, and they all decide to overcome their discomforts and hang weekly with appetizers and libation.
It’s “Sex and the City” without the sex and designer wardrobes — “Sip and the City.”
There are tropes – Marlaflaye’s husband dropped her for a younger woman, Randa was fired from her high-pressure job after a professional meltdown, Dot is recently widowed without financial security, and sexpot-adjacent Jinx has decided to become a life coach.
However, it avoids caricature and melodrama. The play is less about coping with past trauma, and more about 4 strangers navigating new friendship territory after a hard crack from their previous lives.
The women are a strong ensemble, adeptly playing off of each other in witty asides and differing levels of enthusiasm for awkward ideas. I especially liked the unapologetic Marlaflaye, played by Dandy Barnett, with fiery red hair.
The prop master and set designer delightfully bolster their lifestyle and culture: Dot shows up at Randa’s home with a dinner plate full of appetizers, speared with frilly supermarket toothpicks and covered loosely with a square of plastic wrap. In Randa’s home is a makeshift curtain rod and sort-of-coordinating-but-not-really throw pillows on a worn wicker sofa.
The costume designer’s wardrobes, from synthetic separates to artsy/ menopausal ensembles to cautiously décolletage-baring dresses, define each woman’s personality.
One word of caution: Yes, the theater is in Town Hall — but it’s not the upstairs auditorium. They perform in a black box tucked in the basement. Directions to it are helpfully scrawled on a piece of paper taped to the stair railing.
The WCT’s passion for theater outweighs their passion for professional signage as well.
“The Savannah Sipping Society” ends its run this weekend. Performances are Friday and Saturday, April 24 and 25, at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday at 2 p.m. Click here for tickets.
Got drugs you no longer need (or want)? Or those that have expired?
On Saturday, April 25 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Senior Center) the Westport Police Department takes part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
Residents can bring tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs to the Senior Center. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container.
Do not bring syringes, sharps and illicit drugs. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.
Drop-offs are free, and anonymous.
Westport Police also offer a year-round collection bin in the lobby of the headquarters building on Jesup Road. There is a supply of medication disposal bags in the lobby, to dispose of liquid and pill medications in your regular garbage.
The founder and CEO of Westport-based ThoughtPartnr has just been named to MSN’s “Top 10 AI Leaders to Follow” list.
His writeup calls Norris “a serial entrepreneur, author and strategic advisor known for helping leaders scale businesses and influence markets through innovation, technology and high-performance leadership.
“As an AI strategist, he is focused n helping small and medium-sized businesses succeed in the age of artificial intelligence.
Norris chairs the Technology and Innovation Council of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.
But he’s well-known locally too.
A co-founder of StartUp Westport, board member of several organizations, and founder of Westport 10, Norris’ ThoughtPartnr firm helped develop our “06880” widget.
Available at the top right of every 06880.org page (and through the far-left bottom at the bottom of our “06880” app), it enables users to do a deep dive into 17 years of our blog’s content. It’s more than a search engine — it’s a way to use AI in a hyper-local way.
Helping small and medium-sized businesses is one of Norris’ passions.
“The Savannah Sipping Society” — Westport Community Theatre’s 4th production of the season — opened last night.
The warm, witty comedy about friendship, second chances and the occasional happy hour continues weekends through April 26.
Co-written by Jamie Wooten (“Designing Women,” “The Golden Girls”), it
stars Dandy Barrett, Heather Delude, Gillian Holt and Ellen Krinick Porto.
Performances are Fridays and Saturdays (7:30 p.m.), and Sundays (2 p.m.)., at the WCT in the lower level of Town Hall. A special Thursday show is set for April 16 (7:30 p.m.).
Identical twins, Juilliard graduates and clarinet and saxophone virtuosos Peter and Will Anderson (and Companions) perform American songbook standards by George Gershwin at Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.
Speaking of entertainment: Lachat Town Farm — Weston’s multi-purpose entertainment and educational venue — has announced its 2026 Music in the Meadow lineup.
There’s something for everyone.
The season kicks off June 13 with indie rock standouts Morningside — recently named one of Connecticut’s Top 12 Up‑and‑Coming Bands — with a supporting set from Charlotte Roth.
On July 11 they welcome Quinn Sullivan. The Massachusetts guitar star has shared the stage with Buddy Guy and BB King.
August 15 brings Black Rock indie‑folk favorites The Moonrise Cartel. Brian Dolzani opens, featuring the music of Neil Young.
Stella Blue’s Band closes the season September 19, with Grateful Dead tunes.
Next Friday (April 17, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.), an emergency preparedness drill will take place at Bedford Middle School.
It’s during April recess, when schools are closed. The public may notice emergency vehicles and personnel — but it is only a drill. It is not open to the public.
This drill, in partnership with regional and state agencies, is part of an effort to test preparedness plans and strengthen collaboration among local and regional partners, in response to a public health emergency scenario.
Participating agencies include the Westport Police Department and Fire Departments, Westport Emergency Medical Services, the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and the state Department of Public Health.
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It never gets old.
Once again, Ken Bernhard, Ted Freedman ad Rick Jaffe are asking Westporters to check their closets, and donate new or slightly worn shoes to Soles4Souls.
Collection boxes are in place at Town Hall and the Senior Center. Donations can be made through the first week of May.
Soles4Souls keeps shoes out of landfills, provides footwear for people in need, and creates micro-business opportunities in places of poverty.
Since 2006, the organization has salvaged over nearly 100 million pairs of shoes. They’ve been distributed in 129 countries, and all 50 states.
Westport does its part. Ken, Ted and Rich have collected over 4,000 pairs of shoes, helping people around the world who lack access to proper footwear.
Ken Bernhard and friend, with the Soles4Souls collection box at Town Hall.
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Bees are back!
And even though it looks like this guy is still wearing a winter coat, today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo is one more sign that spring is on its way.
And finally … in honor of the shoe collection drive, through the organization Soles4Souls (item above):
(Hold on! Don’t leave yet! If you enjoy these daily Roundups — or any other “06880” feature — please click here. Your tax-deductible contribution supports our work. Thank you!)
The town has released the bid document for a new food and beverage concessionaire at Compo Beach and Longshore.
Parks & Recreation Department director Erik Barbieri tells “06880” that he will visit all applicants, to see how they operate their current businesses.
His hope is for the new concessionaire to be ready to operate this summer. If not, interim arrangements will be made for food and beverage services.
It’s a time for “reflection, self-love, and ending relationships that are no longer working.” (That’s what Google says, anyway.)
Sustainable Westport knows a thing or two about breaking up, too.
They’ve rolled out a community-wide initiative to reduce the town’s use of plastics — especially single-use — and expand public water-filling stations.
As part of the “Un-Plastic” movement, they’ve begun a social media campaign to help Westporters “break up” with the synthetic material.
It’s pretty clever. You may recognize several neighbors in the video (click here or below). It’s also available on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Parents: Want to know more about “Today’s Weed and Teen Mental Health”?
That’s the title of a session led by Dr. Amy Swift, who oversees in-patient services at Silver Hill Hospital. The event is co-sponsored by Positive Directions and the Mid-Fairfield Youth Cannabis Prevention Project.
It’s this Wednesday (February 25, 7 p.m.), with both in-person (New Canaan High School) and virtual options. Click here for more information.
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After weeks of sold-out houses, standing ovations and enthusiastic word-of-mouth, this is the final weekend for the Westport Community Theatre production of “Looped.”
Performances are set for today (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.) and tomorrow (Sunday, 2 p.m.), in the lower level of Town Hall.
The play is set during a 1965 recording session, where Tallulah Bankhead must re-record (“loop”) a single line of dialogue for a film. What should take minutes stretches into hours as the star clashes with the weary film editor and practical studio manager.
Sharp wit gives way to honesty, revealing the vulnerability beneath the bravado while turning a hilarious backstage story into something unexpectedly moving.
Congratulations to the newest graduates of Westport’s Citizens Police Academy.
For 8 weeks, over 2 dozen residents got an up-close, and very personal, look into all aspects of the profession.
They learned about special units like K-9, marine and drone; weapons; what happens at each step of the criminal justice system, and much more. They rode with a patrol officer.
And they got a chance to “stop” a vehicle, and feel what it’s like to approach the unknown driver inside.
It’s one of our town’s most educational experiences. Keep an eye open for an announcement of the next class. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)
Speaking of police: Actual officers — and the Westport Fire Department, and Emergency Medical Service — responded to a 1-car accident yesterday, just before noon across from Saugatuck Congregational Church.
Despite significant damage to the vehicle, the utility pole was intact. No services were affected.
(Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)
A couple of hours later, there was another Post Road East accident closer to Fairfield.
Be careful out there!
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More Post Road news: Drivers are loving the “new” stretch, between Volvo of Westport and Sakura. The 27 years of constructing turning lanes — and installing new traffic lights — were worth it.
The short eastbound stretch between Cumberland Farms and the left-hand turn toward Long Lots Road seems to have been overlooked, however. Without striping, it’s every man and woman for him and herself.
And the state Department of Transportation giveth, but also taketh away. New lights at the clusterf*** that is the misaligned entrance/exit at Compo and Compo Acres Shopping Centers (CVS and Trader Joe’s) have made what used to be a bad situation even worse.
The left hand turn signal (from eastbound into CVS) has been replaced by a coaster-sized light that shows only red. Green and yellow cycles do not exist.
(Photo/Anne Bernier)
We may be rats, in a pleasure/pain experiment conducted by some superior beings.
“Let’s see how much these earthlings can tolerate!” they say.
I think we’ve reached our threshold.
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And in more Fire Department news: Congressman Jim Himes Westport headquarters on Tuesday.
He congratulated the department on securing an Assistance to Firefighters Grant, to fund advanced swift water rescue training for members.
Lieutenant Burgess and Firefighter Marenna — both certified swift water rescue technicians — walked Himes through the training scope, operational challenges, and specialized equipment used during responses.
Congressman Jim Himes and 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, with Fire Department officials on Tuesday. (Photo/Westport Fire Department)
“Conscience” — the current and very timely Westport Community Theatre production — runs one more weekend: this Friday and Saturday (7:30 p.m.), and Sunday (2 p.m.).
The Connecticut premiere tells the story of the rise and fall of Joseph McCarthy, from the perspective of Maine Senator Margaret Chase Smith, leading to her famous “Declaration of Conscience.”
Worried that you missed the traditional (and mammoth) November CraftWestport show in the Staples fieldhouse?
You didn’t.
The annual event — a fundraiser for the Women’s League of Westport (formerly the Westport Young Woman’s League) — moved its dates. It returns December 6 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and 7 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Over 165 artists and makers will show their wares.
Called “the longest-running indoor fine craft festival in Connecticut,” it includes handmade works in jewelry, fashion, home decor, ceramics, furniture, photography and art. Click here for details.
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In a rapidly changing world, George Gershwin and Cole Porter never get old.
The American standard repertoire of the 1940’s, which defined and enhanced the social order during World War II, remains popular day.
The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 has indeed lived in infamy. On December 7, 2025 (12:30 p.m., Saugatuck Rowing Club) keyboardist Dave Childs and bassist John Mobilio join Suzanne Sheridan in a First Folk Sunday tribute.
The concert marks Sheridan’s debut as a solo vocalist, without her guitar.
Tickets for the final First Folk Sunday concert of the season are $20 each; click here to purchase. A brunch menu is available, plus craft cocktails and other beverages. Questions? Call 203-984-7562.
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Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between November 19 and 25.
A 43-year-old Springfield, Massachusetts woman was charged with larceny and conspiracy to commit larceny, after a shoplifting incident at Ulta Beauty. She was alleged to have taken $1,726 worth of merchandise. She was released on a $50,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Driving while texting: 7 citations
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 6
Failure to renew registration: 5
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Speeding in a school zone: 2
Operating a motor vehicle while under suspension: 2
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Failure to drive in the proper lane: 2
Traveling unreasonably fast: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Violation of license class: 1
Drivers continue to get nabbed in school zones. Fines increase for those infractions.
Longtime Westport resident Anita Porzio died Tuesday, in Wilton Meadows Rehab. She was 78.
A 1969 graduate of Manhattanville College with a major in music education and a minor in piano, she taught music and was the church organist at St. Philip Church in Norwalk for many years. She then became the church organist at Assumption Church in Westport.
She is survived by her husband Michael; sons Nando, Michael and Bert Porzio; brothers Frank Savarese, Lawrence Savarese Jr. and Edgar Savarese; sister Ramona Mastrangelo; 10 grandchildren. and several nieces and nephews. Anita was predeceased by her daughter Marielisa Porzio, and sisters Norma Sampson and Lorraine Russo.
A funeral Mass is set for Saturday (November 29, 10 a.m., Assumption Church). Interment will follow in Willowbrook Cemetery. Condolences for the family may be left online at www.hardingfuneral.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Anita’s memory may be made to Assumption Church, or a charity of your choice.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows our first-ever house finch.
Superb nature photographer Lou Weinberg explains: “This male gets its color from the pigments found in its diet of berries and fruits. Here he is puffing up to insulate himself from the cold morning air.”
And finally … in honor of the behind-the-scenes look at the Citizens Police Academy:
(Happy Thanksgiving, from our “06880” house to yours. I am very thankful for our loyal readers — and especially grateful that those who can, click here to support our work. To all: Enjoy the day!)
Plans are moving forward for the new Long Lots Elementary School and Stepping Stones Preschool.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker reports that the end of this month, or early October, will see “groundbreaking for the geothermal wells and site mobilization.” It’s the first major step in the construction process.
For updates, documents and more details, click here.
He was 33 years old. Today, he would be a grandfather.
Jonathan’s wife, Julie Whamond, is a Westport resident, and Representative Town Meeting member. She also volunteers as a docent, at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York.
Yesterday she and fellow RTM member Andrew Colabella visited the museum. They paused in front of a mural of blue tiles. Each represents one of the 2,977 people killed that tragic day, 24 years ago.
Andrew Colabella and Julie Whamond, at the 9/11 Museum.
Behind that wall is where the chief medical examiner office’s. Nearly a quarter century later, they store and test remains every day. Over 1,000 have yet to be discovered.
Part of Jonathan’s remains are kept on site. It is the final resting place for many victims.
As a docent, Andrew says, Julie tells the story of 9/11, and her personal connection to it. It, and she, serve as “a primary source of evidence of the impacts of terrorism that day,” he says.
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Tomorrow’s Slice of Saugatuck is on!
Delayed one week by rain, the annual Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce event will fill Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place and Bridge Square with 7 bands, tons of kids’ activities, retail offerings — and more 2 dozen restaurants and food purveyors, handing out tasty samples.
The Norwalk Art Space’s Arts Bash will have a very distinct Westport flavor.
The October 9 event (6 p.m., 455 West Avenue, Norwalk) — featuring exhibits, music, cocktails and gourmet bites, raising funds to provide free art education and exhibition opportunities to under-represented students and artists — will honor Melissa Newman, for her many contributions to arts and arts education.
The longtime Westport resident is a noted artist, writer, teacher, sculptor, painter — and jazz singer.
A Norwalk Art Space board member, Newman is also a dedicated mentor. “Her multifaceted artistic career and deep-rooted passion for the next generation of creatives make her an ideal honoree for this year’s celebration,” the Art Space says.
Another Westport connection: The Arts Bash co-chair is local resident Dale Najarian.
During the Gilded Age, America’s favorite sage, sociologist, philosopher and
news analyst was Mr. Dooley — a bartender invented by Chicago newspaper editor Finley Peter Dunne.
Though hardly remembered today, Dunne’s humorous newpaper columns were read all over the world. Mr. Dooley’s opinions were read at White House cabinet meetings; robber barons and politicians lived in fear of the bartender’s sarcasm.
Starting tonight, Mr. Dooley comes to life at the Westport Community Theatre in “Dooley at the Bar,” a one-man show created and performed by Alexander Kulcsar.
The play — which opens WCT’s 68th season — runs for 10 performances, on Fridays and Saturdays (7:30 p.m.) and Sundays (2 p.m.), through September 28.
The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters and State Representative Jonathan Steinberg discuss “climate wins from the 2025 legislative session, and plans for the future” on September 17 (9:30 a.m., Westport Library). The public is invited.
The American Parkinson Disease Association Connecticut Chapter holds its annual “Optimism Walk” at Sherwood Island State Park on September 20 (11 a.m.). The event raises awareness and funds. Click here for more information.
School has begun. The temperature is slowly dropping.
But the Levitt Pavilion continues to offer great entertainment.
DNR — the nearly-all-physician classic rock band — played to an enthusiastic crowd last night.
They’ll be back again just a few yards away on November 1. That show is indoors, at the Westport Library. It’s a benefit for Norwalk Hospital’s Whittingham Cancer Center.
Posted onJune 1, 2025|Comments Off on Roundup: StartUp Pitch Competition, Fulbright Scholar, Westport Community Theatre …
Less than 2 weeks remain to enter StartUp Westport’s first-ever Pitch Competition.
The event — for innovators and entrepreneurs, not baseball players or musicians — offers early-stage startups a chance to win a non-dilutive, 5-figure cash prize
It’s also a great way to plug into our town’s vibrant network of mentors, business leaders and passionate supporters.
Eligibility is simple: pre-institutional funding, a scalable business model, and a founder with Connecticut roots or strong state ties.
In September, 4 finalists will be chosen to pitch “live shark tank-style” (though with more encouragement and, perhaps, less drama).
Winners will be announced November 20, at the Westport Library.
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Congratulations to Wes DeOreo!
The 2021 Staples High School graduate (and former lacrosse player) has been awarded a Fulbright Scholarship for 2025-26.
The program offers 400 positions in over 135 countries. Awardees teach, conduct research and carry out professional projects.
DeOreo — who just graduated from Bates College with a double major in politics and German — will teach in Germany.
At Bates he served as an AESOP leader, rugby club president, athletics student assistant, and fitness attendant.
He is no stranger to Germany. DeOreo has studied transatlantic history at the University of Freiburg; and taught English and coached club lacrosse in Freiburg.
He looks forward to joinng community sports teams, and reconnect with German friends and family. After his Fulbright, DeOreo will pursue a career in public service. (Hat tip: Linda Smith)
Wes DeOreo (Photo/Phyllis Graber Jensen for Bates College)
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The curtain rises Friday on the Westport Community Theatre’s new show, “The Gods of Comedy.”
The show — about a young classics professor who calls on Greek gods for help after a priceless manuscript goes missing — is full of “chaos, confusion, and divine mischief.”
The cast includes Jacqueline Carlsen, Henry Durham, Bob Filipowitch, Carin Freidag, Martha Hegley, Paula Lacy, Marcy Sansolo, David Victor and Virgil Watson.
“The Gods of Comedy” plays weekends through June 22, in the lower level of Town Hall. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. on Sundays. There is one Thursday show: June 12, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available here.
Speaking of Library music: Dan Bikel filled the bill last night.
By day a computer scientist and AI leader at Meta, he’s also a very talented singer, songwriter and composer. (With great genes: He’s the son of Theodore Bikel, the folk singer who played Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof” over 2,000 times._
Dan entertained the Trefz Forum crowd with original songs on piano and guitar. He also performed the second movement of his Piano Concerto No. 1, showing his classical side.
Jim Naughton has shared his enormous acting talent, and the celebrity that comes with it, to advocate — and raise millions of dollars — for many excellent causes.
He has been active in areas ranging from animal welfare to the death with dignity movement. in Fairfield County and beyond.
He has been a special friend of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County, including hosting every ACE Awards ceremony.
This year, the tables are turned. The longtime Weston resident (and Tony Award winner) will be honored with the Citizen Impact Award, for his contributions to arts and culture here.
Speaking of the Westport Pops Concert: It’s this Friday (June 6, 7 p.m., Levitt Pavilion).
If you’ve been before, you know it’s a kick-off-the-summer highlight, featuring a couple of hundred talented teenage musician, under the stars. Free tickets are available here.
But note: If you’ve been before, you may have had dinner from food trucks in the Library parking lot.
There are no food trucks this year. So eat before you go — or better yet, bring a picnic. The lawn opens at 6 p.m.
Speaking of theater: Sure, the Westport Country Playhouse’s gala — celebrating 95 years of history and entertainment — is more than 4 months away.
But save the date: October 4.
And get ready to celebrate the evening’s honoree: Anne Keefe.
A cornerstone of the WCP since 1973, she has been involved in nearly every facet of the famed stage.
Key achievements include a pivotal role in the 1999 campaign to renovate and preserve the Playhouse, and her leadership as associate artistic director and co-artistic director (alongside Joanne Woodward).
For over 35 years. she’s supported the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp Gala. She has been honored with an award for lifetime achievement in stage management, selection to the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame’s 10 Women of Distinction, the Westport Arts Award for Theatre, and the Connecticut Critics Circle’s Tom Killan Award.
Keefe has taught at the Yale School of Drama, and served on the boards of the Playhouse and Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County.
Tickets and more information will be available soon.
Anne Keefe
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Sure, the bar is high for entitled parking.
But this shot — from yesterday’s dance recital at Bedford Middle School — clears that bar.
Note the arrogance of simply parking in the middle of the lot, forcing drivers in 2 directions to creep around.
Stopping right across the white line is a bonus.
The coup de grâce, of course, is that the driver is facing the wrong way. Impressive!
Last night, a couple hundred of his closest friends and fans showed up at VFW Post 399, for a surprise party.
The Representative Town Meeting member/civic volunteer/constant voice of conciliation and reason/former hardware store owner/Staples High School graduate is the one person who could bring together so many people.
The bar and dining room were jammed with folks from all walks of Westport life: politicians of both parties, classmates, former customers, and tons of townies (and newbies).
His parents — his father, AJ (Red) Izzo is also a Staples grad — were there too.
The date for the Sunrise Rotary Club and Westport Police Department’s winter canned food drive for Homes with Hope is no accident.
Held annually the day before the Super Bowl at Stop & Shop, it’s planned for a day when many Westporters are shopping for their big party.
The idea is that in addition to chips, guac, wings and whatever else they’re serving, they’ll bring (or buy) some canned goods (or donate money).
The large pre-Super Bowl party was even bigger yesterday, because of the snow predicted to start last evening.
As every Westporter knows, any forecast sets off a shopping frenzy.
Gotta stock up on milk and eggs (even if those prices did not magically drop on January 20).
Shoppers were exceptionally generous yesterday. Homes with Hope’s food pantry is now well stocked.
Thank you, Westport! The Eagles or Chiefs will not be the only winners today.
Sunrise Rotary, Westport Police and Homes with Hope volunteers yesterday, outside Stop & Shop (from left): Bruce Fritz, Anna Rycenga, Helen McAlinden, Chief Foti Koskinas, Rick Jaffe, Dominick Carr, Craig Bergamo, Thomas Engels.
Police Chief Foti Koskinas (left) joins volunteers, as a truck is loaded with donated goods for the Homes with Hope food pantry.
Meanwhile, at the Homes with Hope food pantry on Jesup Road, volunteers stock the shelves with newly donated goods.
Speaking of volunteer efforts: If you have trouble keeping up with Westport non-profits’ events, or are looking for cool things to do — or both — check out the Celebrate Westport calendar.
Located on the town website — under the not-entirely-intuitive “Experience” tab — it’s a treasure trove of too-hidden information.
Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce: Business after hours Valentine’s Event, with the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce.
Greens Farms Garden Clubis looking for volunteers to help plant and harvest from April to October at their Westport locations: Prospect Gardens and Wakeman Town Farm. Harvests are delivered to Mercy Learning Center in Bridgeport, and the Gillespie Center here. Email Gael Ficken: themagicallion@msn.com.
Westport Woman’s Club will host their Spring Gala on April 5.
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The Westport Community Theater canceled last night’s performance of “Pride and Prejudice,” because of the impending snow.
To make up, they’ve added a performance this Thursday (February 13, 7:30 p.m.). Click here for details, and tickets.
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MoCA is making the most of the short month of February. Upcoming events nclude:
Valentine’s Candle Making Workshop with Oh D’ Luxe (February 12, 6 p.m.).
Art Workshops: Basket Weaving with Tina Puckett, Ceramic Multi-Bowl Building with Leah Corbett.
MoCA Some Noise: Open Mic (February 21, 6:30 p.m.): Acoustic music, poetry, slam poetry; all are invited.
Darwin Shen, violin and Michelle Kim, piano: (February 23, 4 p.m.): A recital of rarely performed, newly discovered and reconstructed works by Fritz Kreisler. Community Conversation: Art, Infrastructure, and the Environment (February 27, 6 p.m.): Moderated by curator Ive Covaci, with a diverse panel talking about the intersection of art, sustainability, and community resilience. Speakers include for townwide emergency director Nate Gibbons, Fire Chief Nick Marsan, architect Joseph Strickland, Teens at MoCA co-president Lily Hultgren, and a Sustainable Westport representative.
Art Adventures Drop-Ins for Kids (Saturdays, 12 to 1:30 p.m.): Nulti-media classes offer a creative space to explore new techniques and expressions.
For more information, including registration, click here.
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Are you more science-y than artsy?
On February 18 (8 p.m.; virtual) the Westport Astronomical Society’s free monthly lecture series presents Montana Williams, discussing “Tuning into the Universe: The Science of the Very Large Array.”
She is a 5th-year Ph.D. student at New Mexico Tech in Socorro — the town that is home to the array operations center for the National Radio Astronomy Observatory’s Very Large Array.
Most of her time is dedicated to imaging non-thermal emission from classical novae using NRAO’s Very Long Baseline Array (or, as she says, “looking at cute star explosions”).
She is also a tour guide at the VLA, leading public tours so everyone can enjoy radio astronomy and the “cute antennas.”
Back to the arts: On March 2 (2 p.m.), the Weston History & Culture Center hosts an interactive West African dance workshop.
Led by Jolyn Walker, dancer and owner of African Expressions, it’s great for families with children ages 5 and up. Jolyn will teach traditional dance steps and share her knowledge about dances from the West African country of Ghana.
Too shy to dance? You can play traditional instruments during the program.
Last year, “Virtually Ours” — a musical rom-com about 5 busy professionals in their late 20s and early 30s who turn to an AI-driven dating app to find their perfect mate — was presented to a full house, at an Emerging Artists Theater showcase.
Two of the 4 writers are Westporters: Eva Grant Rawiszer and Diana Sussman.
Next month (March 3, 7 p.m.) it will again be showcased there.
It’s already sold out. Too bad — because there’s an added attraction this year.
Theatergoers can fill out a questionnaire, and be matched with another person at that performance, where they will meet face to face.
Dating apps are not perfect. But at least everyone there will be passionate about theater.
And interested in romance.
Click here for more information. The show’s Instagram is @virtuallyoursthemusical.
Two Westporters — TAP Strength founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Bena Kallick, founder of the Institute for Habits of Mind — will deliver the keynote address at the April Habits of Mind conference in Rochester, New York.
Their topic is “Leading From Within: Cultivating Your Inner Strength with Habits of Mind, Movement, and Heart.”
Trees frame a Soundview Driv sunrise a couple of days ago, in today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
Those limbs look a lot different this morning.
(Photo/Pam Kesselman)
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And finally … in honor of the next Westport Astronomical Society lecture (story above):
(“06880” is “where Westport meets the world.” And — what the heck — the entire universe. If you enjoy being part of our online community, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Post Road storefront facing Main Street is perhaps Westport’s prime location.
It’s been many things: Colgan’s and Thompson’s drug stores. Ships restaurant. Eddie Bauer.
Now it’s Tiffany.
But for how long?
Admiral Real Estate Services is marketing the property, under the headline: “The BEST Locations in Downtown Westport! Current Tiffany & Co. Site!”
The listing reads: “New for lease: Prime ground floor retail space in Westport, CT. Current Tiffany & Co. End-cap corner retail with exceptional visibility at signalized intersection.”
The 5,580-square foot location offers “ample natural light, parking directly in rear, corner building with massive frontage … various uses permitted.”
In bold letters, it adds: “Parking is free, nearby, and vast. A large municipal lot can be found adjacent to the building on Jesup Road and in the Parker Harding Plaza located across the street behind Starbucks. Street parking is also available around the building.”
Van Leeuwen — the New York-based, national made-from-scratch dairy and vegan brand — opens its Church Lane scoop shop next Thursday (February 6, noon).
Their 4th Connecticut location marks a return for co-founders Ben and Pete Van Leeuwen. The Fairfield County natives’ ice cream journey began here 20 years ago.
To celebrate, Van Leeuwen Westport will offer $1 scoops on opening day from 3 to 5 p.m., and free totes to the first 100 customers beginning at 3.
The shop will also showcase a special limited offering created by Westport cookbook author and creator Julia Dzafic. The vegan sundae features scoops of strawberry shortcake ice cream and banana pudding ice cream, topped with sprinkles, hot fudge and sugar cone.
Other flavors include honeycomb, brown sugar cookie dough brownie, Earl Gray tea, praline butter cake, marionberry cheesecake, black cherry chip, Sicilian pistachio, bigface coffe affogato and sour cherry creamsicle.
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With a month to go before Fashionably Westport kicks off, over 30 fashion retailers and hair salons have already signed on.
The entertainment list grows too. Westport’s own Drew Angus — now a national perform — will join the fun.
This year’s 5th annual event is Friday, February 28 (7 p.m., Westport Library). Sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association, it’s a benefit for Homes with Hope. The evening includes a silent auction.
Models are local friends and celebrities. The emcee and runway director are neighbors too: Dave Briggs and Carey Price, respectively.
Americans of a certain generation remember Dick Button fondly.
Some recall his illustrious. double Olympic gold-winning figure skating career. Far more known him as the sport’s foremost television commentator, honed over 6 decades of Olympics and other high level competitions.
Totney Benson has more intimate memories. Button — who died Tuesday in North Salem, New York at 95 — was her uncle.
His full name was Richard Totten Button — named in honor of his grandmother. The longtime Westporter’s name is Totney Button Benson.
Dick Button visited the Bensons’ Compo Hill home for holiday celebrations and other events over the past 45 years.
The curtain rises tonight for the 3rd show of Westport Community Theatre’s 2025-26 season.
“Pride and Prejudice” runs Saturdays (7:30 p.m.) and Sundays (2 p.m.), from January 31 through February 9, plus Thursday, February 6 at 7:30 (Town Hall; tickets are $30).
This adaptation captures the spirit of Jane Austen’s 1813 masterpiece with a lively, modern rhythm that stays true to the heart of the original.
Paul Newman would have been 100 years old this week.
To honor the actor/race car driver/philanthropist/longtime Westporter’s legacy, Newman’s Own launched “Paul Newman Generosity Day.”
As part of the celebration at Newman’s Own offices on Morningside Drive North, Andy Ortega created a 4-foot tall cake. It was decorated with a replica of the original salad dressing bottle.
Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between January 22 and 29. Both were for failure to appear: a 56-year-old Westport man and 44-year-old Bridgeport woman.
Police also issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 22 citations
Failure to obey stop signs: 11
Speeding: 9
Driving while texting: 6
Operating a motor vehicle while under suspension: 6
Failure to renew registration: 6
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 5
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
Improper use of markers: 3
Passing a standing school bus: 1
School zone violation: 1
Following too closely: 1
Failure to drive in proper lane: 1
Improper turns: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Illeal operation of motor vehicle — limited license: 1
This bus driver makes sure no one will pass. Passing a standing school bus is a definite no-no. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)
Westport resident Sophie Coquaz died peacefully on Tuesday, surrounded by family and friends. She was 52.
She was born and grew up in southeast France. She studied economics at the University of Lyon, and the University of Reading, in the UK.
In 1994 she pursued a master’s degree at the University of Delaware. She moved to New York and Connecticut to start her professional life, and met her husband Emmanuel.
They married in 2001, with weddings in France and Greece. In 2005 they relocated to London for career opportunities. They spent 5 years there, where their 4 children were born, before returning to New York.
Sophie worked for Thomson Reuters in commercial and legal operations positions for 24 years. She joined Estée Lauder in 2020, and served as vice president in the office of general counsel and legal operations.
She enjoyed travelling to France and Greece for summer holidays. Years after her classes of classic dance, she retained the grace of a ballet dancer.
Sophie is survived by her husband Emmanuel Saounatsos; children Zélie, Madeleine, Aurel and Sidonie; mother Danielle; brother Régis; nephews Mahel and Antoine, and niece Alice.
A wake will be held at Harding Funeral Home this Saturday (February 1, 2 to 6 p.m.). In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Regional Hospice in Danbury,
Christmas is pretty far in the rear view mirror. It’s amost February, believe it or not.
But a small vestige of the holiday remains at Grace Salmon Park. Johanna Keyser Rossi captured the colorful contrast, in a fir tree, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
And finally … Marianne Faithfull, whose life included years as a singer, “muse and girlfriend of Mick Jagger,” homeless heroin addict, actor and cabaret performer, died yesterday in London. She was 78.
Her first hit, “As Tears Go By,” is often said to be the first original composition by Rolling Stones Jagger and Keith Richards (now a Weston resident). (Stones’ manager Andrew Loog Oldham — who formerly lived in Westport — was attracted by her beauty, and asked her if she could sing.)
Click here for a full obituary. (Perhaps the most interesting line: “Her mother, Eva von Sacher-Masoch, was a Viennese baroness, an ex-ballet dancer and a descendant of Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, author of the erotic novel Venus in Furs,’ which spawned the term masochism.”)
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