For years, a Westport Christmas Eve highlight has been José Feliciano singing at the Assumption Church service.
The Weston resident, Grammy-winning, multi-platinum international recording star — whose “Feliz Navidad” battles Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” for most beloved holiday tune — is a longtime Assumption parishioner.
Now — on the “eve” of the church’s 150th anniversary next year — he’s helping raise $1.3 million, to preserve and enhance the historic building.
A good chunk of those funds could be raised August 15. That evening, he hosts “Feliciano & Friends,” at the Westport Country Playhouse.
Besides an incomparable concert, the event includes an auction, with an autographed guitar crafted by Cuban luthier Miguel Compañy. It’s been part of Feliciano’s collection since 1969. Bidding starts at $5,000. Click here to participate.
General admission tickets includes concert seating and access to the raffle, auction and merchandise in the lobby..
VIP admission includes premium concert seating, and a post-show event with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres from Gabriele’s Italian Steakhouse, plus a meet-and-greet with Feliciano and his Friends.
Speaking of entertainment: Sway Wild was last ight’s featured artist, at the Levitt Pavilion.
Susan Garment captured the evening — and the entire summer concert series — perfectly:
(Photo/Susan Garment)
Upcoming shows include Hopalong Andrew (Children’s Series; tomorrow, Tuesday, 7 p.m., free); I’m with Her, with Ken Pomeroy (Wednesday, July 16, 7 p.m.; ticketed); Nellie McKay Trio (Thursday, July 17, 7:30 p.m.; free), and Pete Muller & the Kindred Souls (Friday, July 18, 7:30 p.m.; free).
Speaking of photography: The Westport Farmers’ Market Young Shoots photo contest is cooking along.
Photgraphers ages 5-18 can take shots every Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Imperial Avenuue parking lot. The deadline is August 8.
Local artists will judge the entries, by age group. There’s a show on August 20 at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center. Winners receive cash prizes.
Here’s one of the entries. It’s from Parker Toohey, in the 15-18-year-old division.
Parker sets a high standard. Fruits, vegetables, faces, action — let’s see what you’ve got!
Click here for details. The contest is a partnership between the Westport Farmers’ Market, the Artists Collective of Westport, and the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.
And finally … in honor of Westport mailboxes, and all they endure (story above):
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The Westport Farmers’ Market Young Shoots photo contest has begun.
Photgraphers ages 5-18 can take shots every Thursday (like today!), from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Imperial Avenuue parking lot. The deadline is August 8.
Local artists will judge the entries, by age group. There’s a show on August 20 at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center. Winners receive cash prizes.
Here’s one of the first entries. It’s from Fielden Brelsford, in the 5-9-year-old category.
Fielden sets a high standard. Let’s see what you’ve got!
Staples High School athletic director VJ Sarullo has named Liam Witham as the 5th permanent head coach in Staples boys soccer 67-year history.
He succeeds Russell Oost-Lievense, whose contract was not renewed by superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice.
The London native played competitively for 15 years before transitioning to coaching, while pursuing his degree in sports fitness and coaching. He holds multiple respected soccer coaching certifications.
Following his playing career, he coached at the premier club FC Westchester and the University of Mount Saint Vincent. He also founded a private training organization.
Sarullo says, “Staples High School is proud to welcome Coach Witham to the Wrecker family. Throughout the interview process, Coach Witham distinguished himself with his genuine passion for working with student-athletes, his commitment to their growth both on and off the field and his clear vision for the future of our program. His leadership will build both immediate progress and sustained success. I look forward to working with Coach Witham in the years ahead.”
Liam Witham
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There was a lot going on at Compo Beach yesterday.
Visitors might be forgiven if they didn’t notice how nice the entrance looked.
But it didn’t just happen. Westport Garden Club volunteers were hard at work, making sure that fireworks-goers — and everyone who follows this holiday weekend — is greeted grandly.
Yesterday’s power outage at Post Road East and Myrtle Avenue seemed to come out of the blue.
But there was a good reason for it. A retired former Connecticut Light & Power director explains: “A little wind — actually just over 40 mph — but the real culprit is the very tall trees growing above the 3-phase primary.
“The company has been trimming its circuits on 4-year cycles for many decades, and patrolling all backbone primary circuits each of the 3 interim years between major cycle trims, looking for signs of trouble in any of the trees growing above the circuits.
“But in most parts of the country the utility trims all branches that are above these circuits, so there is nothing but blue sky above when standing beneath the circuits and looking up.
“Unfortunately, Westport historically denied trimming to that extent. So when a strong wind takes an overhanging tree limb, or sometimes an entire tree is uprooted, you get a major outage as occurred there Friday — keeping 597 customers out of power for hours.
“This brings back memories of major storm-related outages in town: Isaias (early August, 2020 when 97% of customers lost power, some for nearly 2 weeks!), Super Storm Sandy (October 2012), Snowtober Storm (Halloween 2011), Storm Irene (August 2011), March nor’easter (March 2010), Winter Double Nor’easter (mid-January 2006), “Perfect Storm” (late fall 1991), Hurricane Bob (August 1991), Hurricane Gloria (October 1985) … all had strong winds and with its tree cover, Westport was usually one of the worst towns in the state as measured by percentage of customers out of power at the peak of the storm.”
Eversource crews working on the outage (with tree cover above). (Photo/Mark Mathias)
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Speaking of the environment: We’re #1!
At least. Westport and Weston are in terms of electric vehicle ownership.
CT Mirror reports today that while just 2.7% of all vehicles in the state are electric, the figures are 10.4% and 10.1% respectively, for our 2 towns.
Every Thursday, the Imperial Avenue parking lot teems with vendors offering fresh ways to prepare fresh food (and not just produce — there’s meat, baked goods and more). Musicians perform. It’s fun, funky and alive.
There’s a lot to do, and see. It’s a photographer’s paradise too.
Which is why, for nearly a decade, the WFM has run Young Shoots: a digital photography competition for students ages 5-18.
Local artists will judge the entries, by age group. There’s a show on August 20 at Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center. Winners will be announced (and receive cash prizes).
New this year: Every week, a new photo will be featured on “06880” (and displayed at the Imperial Avenue market).
Take it from Miggs Burroughs, noted local artist and Young Shoots co-chair: “Not only does this contest give young talent an opportunity to shine like ripe tomatoes, but it nourishes the community with a feast of photographic goodness!”
Click here for details. The deadline is August 8. The contest is a partnership between the Westport Farmers’ Market, the Artists Collective of Westport, and the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.
There were honors galore, at the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s 101st annual meeting this week. They include:
Lee J. Edelstein Volunteer of the Year: Kristin McKinney
Allen Raymond Legacy & Impact Award: Rosemary Halstead
Edward T. Bedford Outstanding Youth Award, Dani Schwartz, Grant Slippen
Star Employee Recognition Awards:
Paul I. Becker Employee of the Year: Patrick Freeman
Above & Beyond: Victoria Walters
Commitment to Mission: Brian Ference
Relationship Champion: Alison Ligi
Rookie of the Year: Miles Grinnell
The event concluded with US Paralympic athlete Matthew Torres’ surprise appearance to present competitive swimming director Ellen Johnston with the Order of Ikkos. The prestigious honor is awarded by Olympic and Paralympic medalists to the coach or mentor who most influenced their success.
Ellen Johnston receives her Order of Ikkos from Matthew Torres. (Photo/Emily MacDaniel)
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Congratulations to Michael Ances!
The Staples High School graduate — and longtime Monroe Public Schools music teacher — is the district’s Teacher of the Year.
Ances — now serving as Masuk High band director — has taught in nearly every school in Monroe.
He goot his start as a 5th grade trumpet player, under the tutelage of Nick Mariconda at Saugatuck Elementary School.
Ances — who also serves as musical director and pit band conductor of the annual high school musical, and the district’s performing arts coordinator — has never forgotten his Westport roots.
In a long story in the Monroe Sun, Ances recalls playing at Radio City Music Hall with the Staples band.
And when Mariconda — who went on to lead the SHS band — retired, Ances and fellow trumpeters Andrew Wilmott and Jon Owens celebrated him with “Bugler’s Holiday, at the annual Westport Pops Concert.
One character tells another that there is a hierarchy of humanity: “#1 Lesbians; #2 Gay Men.”
Then he says: “Imagine a world without us. Clothing, interior design, hair, makeup, choreography, art, theatre, food, topiary. Basically, you’d be left with the gray, ugly world of Eastern Europe during the Cold War or, worse, the soul-searching blandness of, say, greater Westport, Connecticut.”
Despite — or perhaps because of — lines like that, it’s got a 4.6 rating on Amazon. (Hat tip: Amy Schneider)
Barn swallows fly quickly, in and out of the parking garage at the Riverside Avenue medical office complex. Every year, they nest above the lights.
Johanna Keyser Rossi caught one of the birds, in a rare still moment, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.
(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
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And finally … Lou Christie died Wednesday, at his Pittsburgh home. The falsetto singer was 82.
Best known for his #1 song “Lightnin’ Strikes,” he had several other hits. His follow-up to “Lightin'” — “Rhapsody in the Rain” — was banned by many stations, due to its explicit lyrics about “making love in a storm.” (“And in this car, our love went much too far …”) You get the idea.
(It’s a hot weekend in Westport. But whatever the weather, “06880” is here — 24/7/365. If you appreciate our hyper-local coverage of our town, please click here to support our work. Thanks!
In the wake of last month’s Board of Education hearing to appeal the non-renewal of his contract as Staples High School boys soccer head coach, the 2008 graduate filed a complaint with the state Freedom of Information Commission.
Oost-Lievense said that he intends to challenge the hearing, and the Board’s decision not to renew his contract, in court.
However, he says, he is handicapped in litigation because “the Board unlawfully deliberated my nonrenewal in executive session.” He had repeatedly requested the hearing be held entirely in open session.
Stating that the public and he were deprived of the ability to evaluate and challenge the Board’s decision, he asks that the meeting be declared “null and void.”
Westport’s delegation in Hartford — State Senator Ceci Maher, and State Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson — meet constituents tonight (Monday, June 16, 6 p.m.) in the Library’s Komansky Room (behind the stage).
It’s called an “End of Session Town Hall.” The public is invited, to learn about the legislative year that just ended.
From left: Senator Ceci Maher, Representatives Jonathan Steinberg and Dominique Johnson.
The Westport Museum for History & Culture celebrates Juneteenth (Thursday).
At 10 a.m., they’ll offer a guided walking tour through downtown. It’s based on the Museum’s previous exhibit on African Americans in Westport
Museum staff will share stories of soldiers, sailors, activisits, artists and other citizens who helped build this town, while pointing out historic sites and buildings.
And … after a brief Yankee Doodle Fair-induced detour to the Levitt pavilion parking lot, the Westport Farmers’ Market returns to its Imperial Avenue home this Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
It was a different venue last week, but the scenes were familiar to its many fans. For example:
Fresh strawberries, and …
… these regulars. They’re there every Thursday from a nearby office, always smiling and looking dapper. (Photos/Lori Cochran-Dougall)
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Congratulations to Adam Friedman!
The Westporter won the 123rd annual Connecticut Amateur golf championship.
The (very large) trophy was nice. Even better: Friedman earns an exemption into this year’s US Amateur event. It’s set for San Francisco’s Olympic Club, in August.
Friedman attended Staples as a freshman, then earned a scholarship to Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy in Florida. He attended Montverde Academy, and graduated in 2016 with high honors. Adam then played at Florida Atlantic University. His home course now is Great River Golf Club in Milford.
And finally … in honor of Jeffrey Cohen’s photo (above):
(Another week, another Roundup … and another request: If you enjoy this — or any other “06880” feature — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Last night’s Board of Education meeting began with a toast to retiring teachers and other professionals. Administrators and Board members praised nearly 2 dozen men and women, for their decades of service.
Then came comments about a coach who will not return.
With several teammates standing in support, 3 Staples High School boys soccer players spoke passionately, powerfully and clearly — yet respectfully — about their confusion, anger and disappointment in the way the BOE, superintendent of schools and administrators handled the non-renewal of coach Russell Oost-Lievense’s contract.
Incoming captains Drew Hill and Dylan Shackelford, plus fellow junior Zach Gillman, called for their coach’s reinstatement.
They described sitting in last month’s 14-hour hearing, yet not having ever been interviewed as witnesses. They were surprised at the silence of BOE members — some of whom never asked one question during the long day — as well as with the application of the “arbitrary and capricious” threshold upon which the decision was supposed to be made.
The players also noted that they were speaking for “any coach or teacher” who could be targeted next by administrators.
Board member Robert Harrington then proposed an agenda item to reopen the case, based on witnesses who were not allowed, evidence withheld, and the “impartiality” of the BOE’s mediator at the hearing.
Like the students who spoke, Harrington pleaded for the superintendent and administrators to sit down with Oost-Lievense and try to find a resuloution.
There was no second for his motion.
Harrington’s second agenda request — to allow discussion of a “privileged” letter from the BOE’s attorney — also failed, without a second.
From left: Dylan Shackelford, Drew Hill, Zach Gillman. (Photos/Dan Woog)
The much-maligned concessionaire still has the Compo Beach and Longshore contracts (for one more year).
But they seem to have rebranded themselves as Bluestone
Their graphics (and offerings) look much the same as before. But if you’ve tried the new brand at either location, please click “Comments” to leave a review.
Bluestone at Compo Beach … (Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)
… and Longshore. (Photo/Brandon Malin)
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The Longshore parking lot overflowed last night, with 2 of Westport’s most popular events.
CLASP Homes‘ annual “Taste of Westport” event highlighted many of the area’s most popular restaurants (and assorted other food purveyors).
It was a huge fundraiser for the non-profit that has done such good work, for so long, providing care, support and inspiration to men and women with autism and developmental disabilities.
Among those providing (much more than) a taste of Westport, to hundreds of hungry attendees: Anan, Artisan, Bar Bushido, Barcelona, Black Bear Wines & Spirits, The Blondinit, Boathouse, The Bridge at Saugatuck, Bridgewater, Chopin Vodka, Código 1530, Don Memo, Eder Bros., Freixenet Monetto, Grumpy Dumpling Co., Gabriele’s, Gruel Brittania, La Plage, Little pub, Magic Pie Co., Nômade, Moët & Chandon, Nordic Fish, Oggi Gelato, Blue Bistro, Rizzuto’s, Romanacci Pizza Bar, Saugatuck Oyster Company, Schloss Johannisberg, Tarantino, The Whelk, Woodford Reserve and Zucca Gastrobar.
Robin Tauck and Miggs Burroughs take in the scene …
… which included plenty of serving stations, and a few hundred folks enjoying them.
Meanwhile, a few steps away on the La Plage patio, another couple of hundred folks socialized, networked and noshed at Startup Westport‘s monthly get-together.
In just 2 years, the public/private partnership for tech and entrepreneurship has established itself as a force for creativity, innovation and economic activity.
Plus, everyone involved knows how to have fun.
Dan Bikel, Tucker Peters and Jay Norris share startup tips …
… and the networking continues. (All photos/Dan Woog)
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Club203 — Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities — closes out another very successful year, with a big beach jam.
The June 10 event (6:30 to 8 p.m., Compo Beach Ned Dimes Marina) includes the Super Duper Weenie Truck, art by MoCA, and “music and movement” led by Susan Wright from Digital Zen Studios.
VFW Post 399 reaches out to veterans in many ways.
Next up: a Veterans Benefits Luncheon on June 12 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.).
It’s free, and open to all veterans as part of an ongoing effort to check in on all veterans’ welfare, and connect them with the benefits and support they earned.
Representatives will answer questions, and provide information on services and assistance available to veterans.
RSVPs are encouraged (but not required). Email vfw399ct@gmail.com, and include the number of attendees, or call (203) 227-6796.
PS: If you’re not a veteran, but know one: Please pass the word!
All veterans are invited to the VFW’s free June 12 luncheon.
The senior lacrosse player set a school record for career points on Wednesday, when Staples High dismantled Norwich Free Academy 23-0 in the state LL tournament round of 16.
Udell — a University of Michigan commit — now has 230 points (goals and assists). That’s one more than the previous record holder, Michael Reale, who graduated in 2016.
Udell — who also holds the school records for goals and assists in a season — has a chance to add to that total tomorrow. The #3 Wreckers host #6 Greenwich (1 p.m., Paul Lane Field) in the state quarterfinals. The Cardinals beat Staples earlier in the year.
Seen yesterday at the Westport Farmers’ Market: free seeds and seedlings …
… and fresh strawberries:
The Farmers’ Market is open every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.
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The Westport Rotary Club’s annual Community Service and Public Protection Awards lunch on Tuesday featured awards to 11 local activists and volunteers, plus Public Protection awards to Westport Police, Westport EMS, and Westport Fire Department personnel.
Honorees included Harold Bailey, Jr. and Bernicestine McLeod Bailey of TEAM Westport, Compo Playground Committee co-chairs Bridget Flynn and Samantha Owades, and site manager R.B. Benson.
First responders honored by the Westport Rotary Club …
… along with (from left) Harold and Bernicestine McLeod Bailey, with Rotary Club officials Eileen Lavigne Flug and Jim Marpe …
… and Samantha Owades, Rotary’s Alex Cohen, Bridget Flynn RB Benson. (Photos/Adriana Bleloch-DeLucia)
A brief illness kept the longtime Westport resident from her usual visits to the Senior Center and Compo Beach. But she’s doing better, and hopes to return soon.
Fran still lives off Clinton Avenue — her home for the past 70 years.
And she’s got email (which certainly did not exist when she moved in, during the Eisenhower administration). “06880” readers can wish Fran a happy 103rd birthday at franmande@gmail.com.
Happy birthday, Fran Mande!
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Little Beet — the “vegetarian-friendly” restaurant a few doors up from Fresh Market — closed on April 24.
Perhaps the reason we’ve just heard about it is related to the reason they’re no longer here.
Eight locations in New York and Westchester, and 2 others in New Jersey and Washington, remain open.
There’s a Touch-a-Truck show, face painting, obstacle courses, raffles and food trucks.
It’s a perfect place for bikes. And Bike Westport invites everyone to ride to the beach (or bring bikes in your car).
They’ll be set up by the basketball court, with:
Bike Rodeo: Kids navigate a safe, marked course with cones/signals (helmets required). Led by the Westport Police Department.
Helmet inspection and bike assessment: Is your gear up to date and safe to ride? A professional mechanic will be there to assess.
Test Ride: New bikes, E-bikes and traditional, if you’re looking to upgrade.
Giveaways: Bike Westport swag, and CB Sportif discount coupons for bike service.
Bike Westport info: Learn how to get involved and donate. Share your ideas for safer, more walkable and bike friendly streets and routes in Westport.
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Speaking of bikes: The town’s next Traffic and Pedestrian Safety update session is Thursday, May 29 (7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).
The Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Task Force will offer details on their progress, and hear input from residents about issues of concern.
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Bedford Middle School was packed last night, for Westport Public Schools’ 4th annual district-wide art exhibition
“Spark” — a celebration of student creativity and artistic expression — is “a powerful display of the depth and breadth of arts education and the role it plays in shaping thoughtful, expressive, and empathetic students,” says Steve Zimmerman, WPS music and visual arts coordinator.
The show features over 1,000 works of art from students in pre-K through Advanced Placement Art & Design. They include observational drawings, mixed media, sculptures and digital art.
A small part of the large “SPARK” student art exhibit.
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Back in the day, there were 2 mini-golf courses in Westport.
Is it time for another?
The Westport Youth Commission wants to know.
They’ve created a quick survey to gauge interest. All ages can participate — because mini-golf appeals to every.
The miniature golf course (and driving range), owned by the Backiel family. It’s now the site of the Regents Park condos, near the BevMax shopping plaza.
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The Staples High School internship program is a chance for seniors to get out in the field for a few weeks. They test the real world, right before graduation.
Andre Albanese and Grace Zhang take that literally.
The two are spending their internship with the Westport Farmers’ Market.
They work on farms, help the bakers, learn to makek bagels, and help facilitate the WFM’s operations every Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot).
They also spend time learning who grows their food. And they eat plenty of it — happily and healthfully.
The Mom Salon podcast is a way for women to feel less alone in motherhood.
But what good is listening to their show alone?
Hosts Melissa Fairchild (a post-partum therapist) and Leah Devito (a stylist and community organizer) are hosting “The Ultimate Moms’ Night Out” at Content Studio on Saugatuck Avenue (May 29, 7 p.m.).
In addition to a live capture of their podcast, they promise cocktails, lite bites, Bridgewater chocolates, Sweet Bond permanent jewlery, and plenty of networking opportunities.
Jay Norris is one of Westport’s most active residents. He’s the founder of Westport10, a co-founder and board member of StartUp Westport, Westport Weston Family YMCA board member and former board member of the Westport Library — and that’s just here.
Jay is also co-chair of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, a board member of the New York Urban League — in addition to his full-time job as co-founder and CEO of Guesst.
In his Urban League role, he’ll celebrate the 59th annual Frederick Douglass Awards Gala in New York (June 5, 6:30 p.m., Ziegfield Ballroom, New York City).
Honorees include Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, actress Meagan Good, Great Performances founder and CEO Liz Neumark, and Xponance founder, CEO and CIO Tina Byles Williams. Details and reservations are available here.
Frederick Douglass
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Viburnum makes its first-ever appearance in our “Westport … Naturally” feature. Welcome!
The former Westport resident and FBI director is being investigated by the Secret Service. His new book, “FDR Drive” — a legal thriller and exploration of political extremism — will be published tomorrow.
Meanwhile, 2 other Westporters — TV journalists Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs — taped a fascinating interview with him, for their “Sanity” podcast.
They talked about Comey’s viral “86-47 post,” the Trump administration, right wing outrage, extremism, the FBI, the Supreme Court, the 2016 election, and much more.
Including Westport.
Comey reveals what he’d say to Hillary Clinton, if they bumped into each other at Viva Zapata (one of his favorite restaurants). And he adds that his next book will include a scene there.
As the world focuses on Gaza and Ukraine, another humanitarian crisis continues — with much less attention — in Sudan and Chad.
New York Times Pulitzer Prize, MacArthur “genius grant” recipient (and 1991 Staples High School graduate) Lynsey Addario is making sure it’s not completely forgotten.
Her photo essay in The Atlantic — “The Crisis of American Leadership Reaches an Empty Desert” — shines a heart-wrenching light on this other humanitarian disaster.
The Westport Library Spring Book Sale would not be possible without the help of dozens of volunteers.
Among them on Saturday: 2 Jenns (below):
(Photo/John Karrel)
The Book Sale continues today (Monday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; fill the Library logo bag for $10, or your own equivalent bag for $8; individual books half price).
Westport PAL president Craig Bergamo (far left), with scholarship honorees.
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More awards: On Friday, the Sunrise Rotary Club gave Paul Harris Awards — one of the highest honors the international service organization can give — to 16 people.
Recipients included Charlie Adams, Daniel Ambruso, Brien Cartagena, Sister Maureen Fleming, William R. Harris Jr., Jay B. Paretzky, Vincent Penna Sr., Anna Rycenga, Frankie Smith, Anne Lowrie, Ines SaCouto Curwen, Tomas SaCouto Curwen, Susan Hawley, Jonathan Hendrickson, Matthew Hendrickson and Robert Rubenstein.
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Meanwhile, both Sunrise Rotary and the Westport Rotary Club participated in Saturday’s international Epic Day of Service.
Among the projects: Sunrise Rotarians helped out at the Open Doors shelter in Norwalk. “What a great feeling to give back,” says volunteer Alma Sarelli.
Yesterday’s “Day of Champions” raised $175,000 for Westport-based Experience Camps — the non-profit that runs summer camps and year-round programs for children and teens grieving the loss of a parent, sibling or caregiver.
There’s plenty of great fresh produce at the Westport Farmer’s Market.
And plenty that if not sold, would be wasted.
Food Rescue rescues food. They work with restaurants, supermarkets and grocery stores, to pick up unused, perishable meat, fruit, vegetables and more, and deliver it to food pantries and homeless shelters.
Every week, Farmers’ Market vendors donate food that is still fresh, delicious and healthy but unsold. It would go to compost or into the waste stream — but instead it is distributed it neighbors in need, including the Gillespie Center (around the corner from the WFM), and Fridegeport in Bridgeport.
He’s now launched Endeavor Communications. The agency provides media guidance to clients in financial and professional services, fintech, real estate, advertising, adtech, and climate services.
Already they’ve held Qualitative Brokers, a fintech firm that creates algorithms for advanced execution trading, leading to Deutsche Borse scquiring a majority stake. And 427, a tech company that analyzes and predicts climate risk for governments and private businesses, which led to an acquisition by Moody’s.
Matt Yemma
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Longtime Westport resident Esther Brodie died peacefully in her home of 71 years on Thursday. She was 98.
She and her husband Richard built their Burr Farms Road home largely by hand, in 1954 and ’55.
A Bronx native, her parents were recent immigrants. Born during Purim, she was named for the holiday’s heroine queen.
After graduating from Hunter College, where she competed on the diving team, she taught physical education at Taft High School in the Bronx. She met her future husband at Camp Berkshire.
Their son Scott was in the first kindergarten class at Burr Farms Elementary, a few yards from their home. In 1962 Esther returned to teaching phys. ed., in New Canaan. She earned a master’s degree and 6th-year certificate in counseling. She taught for 3 decades, including some children of former students.
Esther served as president of the local chapter of Hadassah, and was active in the Temple Israel sisterhood. Her avocations included modern dance, tennis and meditation. She attended concerts in the area, and enjoyed Broadway shows.
For over 3 decades, Esther was a senior staff member at Camp Berkshire. When it closed in the 1980s, she and Richard built a vacation home on the lake. They spent every summer and frequent Thanksgivings there.
After retiring Esther studied piano, participated in a labyrinth project for women in prison, and volunteered for the census. She joined the Y’s Women investment club, and greeted new residents to her road with welcome gifts.
Esther is survived by her sons Scott (Susan) and Bruce Marie), grandchildren Joshua, Emma, Melissa, Clara and Ben, and their respective spouses and companions Hilary, Kevin, David, Mariah and Claudia.
Veterans of Foreign War Post 399 is one of the most active spots in town.
With Thursday night jazz, “Elvis” shows, blood drives, meeting space for non-profits, wedding showers and post-memorial service lunches, a lively bar — and of course, resources for veterans of all ages — the VFW is many things, to many people.
Now it’s gained national recognition.
The 105-year-old Joseph J. Clinton VFW Post 399 was chosen as an “All-American Post” by the VFW Department of Connecticut.
The award recognizes exceptional achievement in advancing core VFW programs, and attaining significant membership growth.
Congratulations on the well-deserved honor, to quartermaster Phil Delgado and the entire VFW crew!
Tee off for the VFW/American Legion golf tournament.
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The Westport Library Big Spring Book Sale begins on Friday.
There is something for everyone, of all ages: thousands of gently used books in over 50 categories of non-fiction and fiction, plus DVDs, CDs, vinyl, ephemera, and framed art. Here is a link to specials, hours of the sale and more.
Speaking of the Library: A timely topic — advances in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment — is the subject of the next Andrew Wilk Presents: Medical Series.
Moderated by longtime Westport internist Dr. Robert Altbaum, and featuring Dr. Lisa Phuong and Dr. Jeanne Capasse of Nuvance Health — the event is set for June 3 (7 p.m., Westport Library).
Theater kids have a great chance this summer to create — and perform — an original play.
And to do it on the historic Westport Country Playhouse stage.
A 2-week Playhouse Playmakers program runs weekdays, August 4-15 (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) for middle schoolers.
Students will write, rehearse, and stage the show. They’ll be directed by actor/ playwright/educator Evette Marie White, and actor/songwriter/educator Stacie Morgain Lewis.
The fee of $995 includes technical rehearsal, materials, and 4 tickets to the performance. Need-based scholarships are available. Read more about the program here.
Stacie Morgain Lewis co-leads the program.
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Speaking of entertainment: 1988 Staples High School graduate Kerri Kenney-Silver plays Anne, an unsuspecting divorcée, in “The Four Seasons,” a current Netflix hit.
The “Reno 911!” and “The State” star spoke recently about her current show.
Anne “thought she was set ’til the day she died. When she finds out that is not the case, she becomes completely untethered. You see her go through the 4 seasons of emotion and grief.”
Netflix says: Kenney-Silver portrays a kaleidoscopic range of emotions and pathos as Anne navigates the ups and downs of divorce, and its rippling effects on their close-knit friend group. Take co-star Colman Domingo’s word for it: ‘She’s just incredible. I feel like she can do anything.'”
Kerri Kenney-Silver in “The Four Seasons.” (Photo/Jon Pack for Netflix)
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Speaking (still) of entertainment: What do Meghan Markle and Kadi Lee have in common?
The other day, Kadi — a 1996 Staples graduate — was a guest on the Duchess of Sussex’s podcast.
They chatted about how Kadi co-founded Highbrow Hippie, then became a favored Hollywood colorist, with a very popular product line.
The women discussed “what it means to grow something from the ground up, how to lead with your values, and why staying connected to your community is the ultimate marker of success.”
Kadi Lee (Photo/Liza Voloshin, courtesy Highbrow Hippie)
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Speaking (yet again) of entertainment: Wetport singer/songwriter/guitarist Tom Belknap’s band, Small Craft Warning, just released a new album, “Firefly.”
The band — with Westport singer Elise Gabriel — plays original acoustic music, influenced by the Grateful Dead and the Jerry Garcia/Robert Hunter songbook.
Belknap did much of the mixing, using skills learned from Travis Bell in the Westport Library’s Verso Studios. Listen to Firefly on Spotify here.
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TV news is sort of entertainment too, right?
Lonnie Quinn — the Westporter who is chief meteorologist at WCBS-TV, and appears regularly on the “CBS Evening News” — returned to the newsroom on Monday, following a 2-month recovery from a traumatic brain injury.
Speaking of science: Dark matter is one of the greatest mysteries in modern physics. It makes up 84% of the mass of the universe. But more than half a century after its discovery, no one can figure out just what it is.
The General AntiParticle Spectrometer is a new experiment that’s trying.
On May 20 (8 p.m.), the Westport Astronomical Society hosts a talk about it, with Gabriel Lewis Bridges of Columbia University. It will also be livestreamed on YouTube and as a webinar on Zoom.
One of the most visible corners in Westport — North Avenue at Long Lots Road — is also one of the prettiest.
Especially in spring, as today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo shows.
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And finally … as we await the Westport Astronomical Society’s upcoming lecture on dark matter:
(If you can’t find something interesting to do in Westport, you’re just not trying. Or you’re not reading “06880.” If you rely on us to keep you entertained, please support us by clicking here. Thanks!)
For nearly 20 years, the Westport Farmers’ Market has been a favorite destination for healthy, delicious food.
And much more, including education, entertainment, and community.
Their 19th season begins tomorrow. The time and site are the same: Every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Imperial Avenue parking lot.
What’s new: a special “Friend of the Market” bag. For $40 (click here), you can support the WFM — and offset vendors’ fees. That means they take home more revenue each week. Of course, they plow it right back into their farms.
To launch the season the Market will ring bells at 10 a.m., honoring a member who recently died.
Jon Jaeger — a mainstay at For Hill Farm’s booth — loved WFM, and was well loved. His sisters Sara and Jalna — also great supporters of WFM — will join the celebration. Shoppers are invited to bring their own bells to ring for Jon.
Also special this week: “Get Growing” for children, and Sustainable Westport’s “Your Yard, Our Climate” program (with seed giveaways).
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Also upcoming: the 9tn annual Westport Dog Festival.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce/TAILS event is Sunday,May 18 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Winslow Park).
As Dog Festival once again features Police K-9 presentations, kids’ activities, food trucks and more.
The winnter of the obstacle course earns a year’s supply of dog food.
Competitions offer prizes for best tail wager, best dressed, best kisser, best trick, best lap dog over 50 pounds, and the dog that looks most like its owner
There will be also be adoptables, and information about many non-profits.
New this year: Gilbert the Party Pig, for petting and feeding.
Surrounding the main activities are over 60 pet-related vendors, picture booths, caricatures, games and giveaways. WEBE 108 will broadcast live.
Entrance is $10 per person, $30 for a family of 4. Proceeds benefit nonprofit organizations. So far, over $45,000 has been donated by the Chamber to deserving groups from the prior festivals. For more information, click here.
A small part of the big Dog Festival. (Photo/Amy Saperstein)
Among the 1,200+ homegrown perennial plants from members’ gardens, a special selection of Connecticut native plants will be featured. Every plant has a tag with care information.
As always, there are decorative container gardens, gifts for Mother’s Day, and baked goods.
This year, shoppers can also bring garden tools to be sharpened by Edgewise.
Also new: donations of 1 gallon and larger plastic pots. The club will wash and recycle them
Members will happily offer advice on plant selection. A table with lists of native plants, and details about Westport’s Pollinator Pathway Project, will offer even more info.
Earthplace will host a children’s table, with nature-inspired activities, while the Westport Library Book Store offers a variety of garden-related books.
Proceeds from the sale support the club’s civic projects, including maintenance of public gardens, educational programming, and grants to environmental non-profit organizations. Cash and credit cards are accepted. For more information, click here.
Speaking of the environment, a reminder: Starting May 15, handheld and backpack gas-powered leaf blowers are prohibited in Westport. The prohibition runs through October 15.
Last year, the town received “numerous written complaints.” The Conservation office issued notices to 168 different properties.
Owners were told about the ordinance, and given information highlighting alternative options, impacts of noise, and how to limit emissions.
There were few surprises Tuesday night, when the Representative Town Meeting passed the town budget. There had been little controversy throughout the entire process.
In addition to a yearly ritual of restoring funds to the Westport Transit District’s Wheels2U program, the RTM voted 28-1 to add $25,000, which had previously been cut, for Earthplace.
One of the highlights of the night was a heartfelt speech by Jonathan Dobin-Smith. The Staples High School student spoke on behalf of classmates in his Science Research Honors program. He earned solid applause at the end.
Click here to see. If the link does not start at his remarks, it’s at the 1:18:25 mark.
Connoisseur Media is a big name in Connecticut and New York radio.
Now they’re going national.
The Post Road East-based owner of 11 stations is buying Alpha Media. The Portland-based company owns some of Oregon’s best-known stations — and dozens of others around the country.
In fact, they own over 200 in all.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Click here for more details. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)
Connoisseur Media CEO Jeff Warshaw, and his expansive view of Westport. (Photo/Dan Woog)
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Westport Police made 5 custodial arrests between April 30 and May 7.
A 68-year-old Milford woman was charged with DUI and evading responsibility, following a hit-and-run accident at Compo Road South and Bradley Street. The driver rode over a lawn, struck a fence and light post, and left the scene. She was released on $25,000 bond.
A 25-year-old West Haven man was charged with 2 counts of larceny, and 2 counts of conspiracy to commit larceny, followin an investigation into 4 incidents in which tires and rims were stolen off of vehicles at Honda and Toyota of Westport. He was held, after being unable to post $50,000 bond.
A 25-year-old New York City man was charged with larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny, following an investigation into a theft at Ulta Beauty. He was transported to Westport, after being arrested in New Jersey, and held on an active arrest warrant.
A 67-year-old Norwalk woman was charged with larceny, after a purse was stolen from a table at Nômade. She was released on $50,000 bond.
A 35-year-old Fairfield woman was arrested on an active failure to appear warrant, after police responded to the report of a motor vehicle accident.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Texting while driving: 13 citations
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
Failure to renew registration: 4
Distracted driving: 3
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 3
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
Failure to obey stop sign: 2
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
Simple trespass: 1
Disorderly conduct: 1
Texting while driving (2nd offense): 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Improper use of markers: 1.
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The “Shake It For Shea” silent auction is live.
Every dollar raised helps fund Long QT Syndrome research. The event is organized by Mark and Kira Greenfield, whose daughter was diagnosed with the cardiac condition. Her heart’s electrical system takes longer than usual to recharge between beats. She is at risk of fainting, seizures, cardiac arrest and sudden death.
Items include:
Carbone dinner for 4 at any Carbone location
Grove XXIII golf foursome: Play at Michael Jordan’s exclusive club in Hobe Sound, Florida
VIP Knicks experience: 2 front-row seats, post-game photo on the MSG floor, and the option for your child to be the “ball kid” for pregame shoot-around
Golf and lunch with Knicks legends John Starks and Larry Johnson, at Westport’s own Birchwood Country Club.
Winged Foot golf for 3
Dinner for 3 with Stephon Marbury
Luxury hotel stays at Le Barthelemy (St. Barth), The Brazilian Court (Palm Beach), The Little Nell (Aspen) and Ocean House (Rhode Island)
Autographed sports memorabilia
Fine jewelry, including pieces from Howard Engle, Josh Levkoff Jewelry and JL Rocks.
The auction closes Sunday (May 11, 9 p.m.). Click here for all items, and to bid.
Tickts are still available for tomorrow’s gala (May 8, 7:30 p.m., The Knowlton, Bridgeport). Click here to purchase.
And finally … in honor of the “Shake it For Shea” live auction, underway right now (story above):
(There’s plenty to do in Westport — and “06880” makes sure you know all about it all. If you appreciate our daily Roundup, or any other blog features, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
There is no better sign of spring than the return of the Westport Farmers’ Market.
The annual rite is set for next Thursday (May 8). It runs every Thursday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Imperial Avenue parking lot near Jesup Road.
WFM will hand out free packets, to “sow the seeds of another incredible season.”
“As we begin this season, we’re not just putting up tents. We’re planting ideas, nurturing community, and growing a better food system,” says executive director Lori Cochran-Dougall.
The 2025 Farmers’ Market includes:
Over 50 local farms and vendors, committed to sustainabie practices and “real food.”
Non-profit partners, with informational tables, giveaways and more.
Cooking demonstrations, a revamped recipe program, kids’ events and community talks.
Live music.
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A cellphone-free Staples has been talked about for a while.
On Tuesday, the public gets its say.
A special Board of Education meeting (May 6, 7:30 p.m., Coleytown Middle School auditorium) has one agenda item: “Bell-to-Bell Cell Phone Free Initiative at SHS.”
The meeting notice adds: “The Westport Public Schools invite your feedback on making Staples High School a phone free school.”
Cellphone holders may be a thing of the past, if the devices are banned throughout the day at Staples High School.
Speaking of Staples: On Monday, TEAM Westport announced the 4 winners of its 12th annual Teen Diversity Writing Contest.
As reported on “06880,” the quartet — Annam Olasewere, Aanya Gandhi, Souleye Kebe and Sienna Tzou — wrote about their identities with tremendous insight, depth, honesty and clarity.
They also delivered their essays powerfully, and passionately.
Click below to view their presentations. Their personal readings give even greater meaning to their compelling words.
Read to Grow celebrated 25 years of providing books to Connecticut’s babies and children last night, with a great gala at the Westport Library.
Host Ian O’Malley — the well-known Westport realtor and New York radio personality — and other speakers described the impact the program has had on hundreds of thousands of youngsters, and their parents. A flagship program is the gift of baby books and early literacy information to nearly every new mother in Connecticut.
Zucca Gastrobar’s superb catering, and silent auction items featuring (among others) Ron Darling and the Doobie Brothers added to the fun.
Also last night: A large crowd welcomed Alex Lehr to Westport.
His Post Road store — American Colors by Henry Lehr — opened in December. But the ribbon cutting for the shop, which features casual, comfortable, contemporary clothing for men and women, a collection of vintage belts, and much more — was yesterday.
American Colors marks a return to Westport for the Lehr family. Alex’s father, Henry, operated a very successful and much-loved women’s store around the corner on Main Street for decades.
Cutting the ribbon (from left): 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, Alex Lehr, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell, brand strategist Jay Norris.
Yesterday’s “Westport in Focus” newsletter from 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker included information about the Conservation Department.
She notes their “fascinating presentation about Westport’s natural habitats – vernal pools. They are a delicate habitat pressed by multiple stressors, yet home to a surprising array of life. Species such as fairy shrimp, spotted salamanders, and wood frogs call these places home and struggle to live anywhere else.
“Westport is lucky to contain hundreds of vernal pools, ranging from under 100 square feet to over a few thousand.”
“06880” readers learned last week that Dave Briggs nominated me for the #SpeakYourMind ice bucket challenge. The videos bring awareness to, and raise funds for, youth mental health.
I was honored to be dunked (click here to see), and promptly nominated Jen Tooker, Andrea Moore and Foti Koskinas.
The entire board of the non-profit center for prevention and counseling accepted.
Coincidentally, PD was kicking off their New York Marathon journey the same day. Runners Gianna Affi, Cam Gaylord and Brian McGarvey will run to raise money for the organizaton. They joined Jen in dousing board members with frigid water.
Positive Directions paid it forward. They nominated Rhone, who is helping make the marathon “a huge splash” (including outfitting the runners in training and at the race), plus mental performance coach Rhodie Lorenz, who is inspiring the runners as they train.
Wednesday’s “06880” story — about the partnership between Staples High School drama teacher David Roth’s directing class, Westport’s Shakespeare scholar Diane Lowman and Bridgeport’s Edison Elementary School, to bring the Bard to young students — struck a chord.
Within a day, $2,125 had been raised to help fund more Bridgeport classes take part in the future. Roth and Lowman are grateful for readers’ generosity.
The Staples High School juniors are founders and co-presidents of the local Make Our Schools Safe chapter. The club empowers students and staff to help create a culture of safety and vigilance, while advocating for laws that promote safery schools.
In February, Zander and Elijah testified before the state legislature.
Yesterday, SB 1216 passed through the Senate. It calls for the installation of silent panic alarms directly linked to law enforcement, which dramatically reduces response time
State Senator Ceci Maher — who worked closely with the Staples students — praised Elijah and Zander in her social media posts. Click here to see.
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photos may be the last from the now-closed Community Gardens. As “06880” reported yesterday, the 20-year-old site will at some point be the staging area for construction of the new Long Lots elementary School. Later, an athletic field will be built on the site.
And finally … Today is the birthday of Manfred von Richthofen. The German World War I pilot was born in 1892. He was killed over France in 1918, age 25.
·(Another day, another Roundup filled with news you can use. If you appreciate this daily feature — or any other part of “06880” — please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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