The Westport Garden Club nominates Sajjad Gul, and the team at Interstate and Lakeland Lumber, as this week’s Unsung Heroes of the Week. The club says:
Earlier this month the Westport Garden Club held a juried Flower Show at the Westport Library, part of the America 250 celebration.
Because of a communication breakdown, the setup team picked up the wrong pedestals from the Wilton Garden Club.
Pedestal size is critical in a juried flower show, as designers build their arrangements to fit assigned dimensions. With the designers’ set-up window about to begin, club chair Kelle Ruden contacted Interstate Lumber, and explained the situation. Within 30 minutes, Sajjad Gul and the Interstate team had cut 4 boards to the required dimensions.
We picked up the boards and installed them on top of the existing pedestals in time for the start of the designers’ set-up window.
A pedestal, courtesy of Interstate Lumber …
The team at Interstate Lumber not only responded immediately and cut the boards to the correct dimensions, but they also charged us only for the materials — and not for their labor.
The Westport Garden Club is deeply grateful for their generosity, responsiveness, and willingness to help on such short notice. Their quick action truly saved our Flower Show set-up.
… holding up a design by Westport Garden Club member Andrea Cross.
(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com. “06880” is proud to honor them — and tell many other tales of town too. Please click here to help us do that, by supporting this hyper-local blog.)
Dylan Robbin is the newest member of the “06880” board of directors.
One seat on the 7-person board is reserved for a member of Inklings, Staples High School’s newspaper and website.
A rising junior, Dylan has immersed himself in many aspects of school life. Passionate about sports and journalism, he is a member of the varsity football team, director of sports media of Inklings News, and a coordinator on the WWPT-FM leadership team.
Outside of school, Dylan enjoys golfing, working out and watching movies. His favorite film is “The Departed.”
Meanwhile, back on land around the corner, there was this classic scene:
(Photo/Nathan Greenbaum)
Sure, the cars and homes are fancy. But it doesn’t get more Anytown USA than this.
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We don’t yet know who’ll be playing in Sunday’s World Cup final.
But we do know where you can see what’s sure to be a great match: the Westport Library.
And that’s not all. There’s a full, family-friendly soccer afternoon.
At 1:30, Westport soccer personalities including former Staples High School coaches Dan Woog and Chris O’Dell, national champion Paddy Donovan and soccer filmmaker Joe Pierce will tell stories about their lives in the Beautiful Game.
From 1 to 3 p.m., fans can exchange Panini brand stickers.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or only recently caught World Cup fever, this is a chance to spend an afternoon with soccer people — and watch what is sure to be a memorable match surrounded by many others.
And you can’t beat the admission price. It’s free!
(“Westport Meets the World Cup” is supported by the Westport Soccer Association, Mickey Kydes Soccer Enterprises and “06880.”)
(Graphic courtesy of Isabelle Sareen)
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The Val Ramos Flamenco Ensemble danced across the Levitt Pavilion stage last night.
The free show was one of dozens this year, at the open-air theater on the Saugatuck River.
This week’s schedule:
Tuesday, July 14: Connecticut Ballet (7:30 p.m., free)
Wednesday, July 15: Elena Moon Park: Children’s Series (7 p.m., free)
Thursday, July 16: Amani Burnham, blues/rock (7:30 p.m., free)
Friday, July 17: Dogs in a Pile, psychedelic/jazz/funk rock (6 p.m., paid tickets)
Saturday, July 18: Hollywood Nights: The Bob Seger Experience (7 p.m., paid tickets)
On Saturday, Eggy returned to the Levitt, for 2 high-energy sets. (Photo/Dick Wingate)
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Westport’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary continued this weekend. The Westport Library hosted “A Small Standard Patriotic Flower Show.” Floral designs, horticulture and education tables — all with a red, white and blue theme — were presented by the Westport Garden Club.
From left: Joni Andrews, Kara McKenna-Wong, Kelle Ruden, Joanne Heller, Nathalie Fonteyne, Andi Turner, Anne Lester.
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Noted Westport artist Nina Bentley is participating in the current New York Historical’s “Weitzman Shoe Museum” exhibit. It includes a number of pieces from the collection of Stuart Weitzman,
Outgoing State Senator Ceci Maher is the featured guest on July 23 for “This Is Your Life”. The series — a collaboration between the Westport Center for Senior Activities and The Legacy Project USA — is a chance to learn about the lives of friends and neighbors among us, both well known and quiet.
Prior to her 2 terms as state senator, Maher served in both the public and corporate worlds. She also raised 3 children. Her daughter Katherine is CEO and president of National Public Radio.
Rozanne Gates, owner of The Legacy Project USA, is the moderator of “This Is Your Life.” The series at the Senior Center has included Mark Yurkiw, Rabbi Greg Wall, Harold Bailey, Bill Harmer, Miggs Burroughs and Carleigh Welsh.
To attend “This Is Your Life, Senator Ceci Maher,” call 203-341-5099
Longtime Westporter, noted publisher, former Westport Library president and Brown University trustee Joel Davis died peacefully on Saturday, after a short illness. He was 92.
The Chicago native was president of his Highland Park High School Class of 1952. His college years at Brown University made a major impact on his life.
Joel became the youngest trustee of the Brown Corporation at age 34. He served from 1968-73. He was head class agent for the Class of 1956 for 35 years.
Joel kept in touch with dozens of classmates, and knew the names of their partners, children and other important life details. At a classmate’s wedding he met Carol Barnett, his wife of 67 years. They moved to Westport in 1965.
After college Joel and his father Bernie founded Davis Publications. He was president and publisher for 40 years. At its peak they published 60 special interest magazines including Ellery Queen’s Mystery, Isaac Asimov’s Science Fiction, Income Opportunities, Sylvia Porter’s Personal Finance, Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine, and Analog.
Architectural Designs was launched, with his wife Carol as editor. One of Joel’s three sons, Jonathan, was brought in 20 years later to learn the business and eventually take it over. Jon evolved AD into an e-commerce leading business, selling home plans to builders and individuals.
Joel was proud that last year his grandson, Jared Davis, became the third generation CEO of AD.
Joel’s father co-founded Ziff-Davis Publishing Company in 1928, which meant that Joel and his family have had a key role in publishing for 98 years.
Joel served on the board of the Westport Library for many years, including 2 terms as the president. He was also served a 25-year board member of the Magazine Publishers of America.
Additionally, he was a director for Mutual of New York on 3 different funds. Joel served on the Merritt Parkway Conservancy board, and was a Young Presidents Organization Fairchester Chapter chair.
Joel is survived by his wife Carol; sister Carol Davis Teten; sons Chuck (Jan), Andy (Kate) and Jon (Evelyn); grandchildren Jared (Emily), Jenna (Connor Grealy) and Jack, and two great-grandchildren. One more is on the way.
Joel’s family will host a celebration of his life this fall.
Joel Davis, at his 84th birthday.
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Many “Westport … Naturally” photos are striking, inspiring, or for many other reasons make us think, “Wow! We live in a beautiful and special place!”
This one doesn’t.
Still, it’s part of the daily rhythm of life by the shore.
(Photo copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)
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And finally … in honor of Nina Bentley’s artwork, at New York Historical (item above):
(Another week — and more chances for “06880” to give you all the news, features, photos and more that you love. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
Compo will never be as crowded as it is for the fireworks.
But don’t count out today.
Between the actual July 4th holiday and the heat, Westport’s flagship beach will see plenty of action.
By 8:30 this morning, South Beach — the area with grills and tables — was already nearly full.
(Photo/Karen Como)
Remember: Unlike the fireworks, there is no reserving spots. You can’t put your stuff down on a picnic table, then head home for a few hours and expect it to be yours when you return.
Play fair! Think of others! It says “No Reserving Tables” right there ON the tables!
Meanwhile, today’s temperature is expected to be a little better than yesterday, with a high of “only” 94.
Tomorrow, it drops to 84.
And on Monday — are you sitting down? — the high is forecast to be just a frigid 79.
Just in time for America’s birthday, the Westport Library’s Verso Studios has produced a song tribute: “Hey Hey Hey Happy 250th Birthday USA.”
The uplifting, non-political tune’s lyrics, music and vibe were all created by Verso Studios advisory board member Les Dinkin. He worked with studio producer Travis Bell to polish the song, through dozens of iterations.
They used Verso’s free media resources, including AI toolkits. Click here to listen.
The cover of the Library’s semiquincentennial record.
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Pete Ratkiewich’s long tenure as Public Works director was supposed to end yesterday.
But the job is 24/7/365. In his final hours, he had to deal with an important issue: Both transfer station compactors went down, with electrical problems.
That could have been disastrous. The July 4 holiday weekend brings major trash.
The situation was so dire, one refuse company emailed its customers that because the town could not work on repairs until Monday — and did not know how long it would take — that the company would not pick up trash on Monday, and would adjust its schedule accordingly.
No worries!
At 6:55 a.m. today, Ratkiewich emailed “06880”: “We did have to close early yesterday. We were able to get one compactor working again by the end of the day, so we will be open again on Monday.”
That’s one more reason to thank you for your service, Pete. Thanks too to everyone at Public Works.
Now everyone can go back to celebrating America’s birthday.
And making trash. (Hat tip: Seth Schachter)
Back in action! (Photo/David Meth)
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It’s bad enough that FIFA has stripped stadiums of the names of all corporations that are not official World Cup sponsors.
MetLife is (through the finals there July 19) “New York New Jersey Stadium.” Levi’s is “San Francisco Bay Area Stadium.” Gillette is “Boston Stadium” — though it’s 30 miles from Foxboro.
But that pales in comparison to the new sign on the old Carvel.
But this season, the Staples Football Wall of Fame welcomes new members.
The Gridiron Club is seeking nominations for the prestigious honor. The deadline is July 31. The ceremony takes place September 10, at halftime of the home opener against Westhill.
To be considered, players must have graduated at least 10 years ago. Areas of distinction include on-field excellence, post-high school athletic achievement, program impact and legacy, current program involvement, and character and integrity.
Coaches, staff or community members who significantly impacted the Wreckers’ success and culture can also be nominated.
To make nominations, or for more information, email Gridiron Club board member Doug Pardon: DP@brigadecapital.com.
And finally … there are so many patriotic songs we could pick from.
This — from Phil Ochs — is one of my favorites.
And its words are as insightful and important as they were 60 years ago.
(America draws its strength from its people. “06880” relies on our readers. If you value local media, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
The Clubhouse has been Westport’s go-to spot, for many World Cup matches.
For something different for today’s Argentina-Cape Verde game (Friday, 6 p.m.), consider a watch party in Stamford — hosted by Congressman Jim Himes.
The Round of 32 event is at Third Place by Half Full Brewery. Fans of both teams — and the USA — are welcome. So are all Democrats, Republicans, independents — and everyone else.
What do freedom, faith, hope and responsibility mean, as America celebrates its 250th anniversary?
Weston’s Norfield Congregational Church invites everyone to participate in a 4-week sermon series exploring those questions.
“A New Birth of Freedom: America at 250 — Beautiful. Broken. Beloved. Becoming” begins this Sunday (July 5, 10 a.m.). Through scripture, reflection and honest conversation, the series examines how people of faith can engage the nation’s milestone with gratitude, humility, courage and hope.
Senior minister Rev. Dr. Bernard Wilson says, “This is not a partisan series. It is a Gospel series. We are not gathering around a flag, but around Christ’s table. Our goal is to explore what faithful citizenship and Christian hope look like in a complex and changing world.”
The series will be complemented by special musical offerings from American composers and hymn writers. For more information, click here.
Also in the spirit of our semiquincentennial: The Westport Garden Club invites the community to a free “American Spirit 250” event.
The patriotic exhibition — a gift to the the town — showcases the talents of club members through horticulture and floral design, and educational displays.
The National Garden Club Small Standard Flower Show is set for the Westport Library on July 11 (noon to 5 p.m.) and July 12 (1 to 3 p.m.).
The Westport Garden Club began celebrating America 250 in April, placing floral displays placed town. They’ll continue the effort on patriotic dates through the rest of the year.
Westport Garden Club members Louise Demakis, Janet Wolgast and Joanne Heller.
As always, the Parks & Recreation Department did a spectacular job — not just with last night’s fireworks, but the cleanup that followed too.
Working through the night, after 10,000 guests left, they made sure that Compo Beach was pristine for the holiday weekend.
Meanwhile, the dozens of very important port-a-potties were trucked away. They too will be cleaned, and ready for whatever comes next.
(Photo/Amy Schneider)
PS: More props to Parks & Rec, for keeping the bathrooms by the lifeguard shack open. In years past, they were inexplicably closed during the biggest night of the year.
Local artist Tammy Winser is this month’s Westport Book Shop artist exhibitor.
Her whimsical “So They Say” collection combines acrylic and collage, celebrating animals with human expressions and personalities. Winser’s thought-provoking works capture the humor and absurdity of everyday life.
An artist reception is set for July 16 (6 p.m.). The exhibit will be open during business hours throughout July, with all work available for purchase.
Meanwhile, the Book Shop’s Short Story Club meets July 22 (6 p.m.).
This month’s discussion focuses on stories by American writers, about conversations:
“Uncle Wiggly in Connecticut,” by J.D. Salinger
“What We Talk About When We Talk About Love,” by Raymond Carver
“What We Talk About When We Talk About Anne Frank,” by Nathan Englander
Space is limited. To register, call 203-349-5141, or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.
Tammy Winser
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The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) is seeking candidates to fill the District 7 vacancy created by the death of Jack Klinge.
No political party affiliation is required. as Westport’s RTM is a nonpartisan legislative body. Interested District 7 representatives can submit a resume and brief statement of intent to town clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton (jdunkerton@westportct.gov) by July 20.
The baseball team was 2 outs away from the “LL” (extra large schools) title yesterday, at Middletown’s Palmer Field.
A dramatic 7th inning home run tied the game for Trumbull.
But in the top of the 8th — the first extra inning in high school — the Wreckers went to work. Starting pitcher Cole Landgraf drove in the winning run.
Relief pitcher Lukas Snow got the win, surrendering just 1 run in 4 innings. Charlie Fitch came on in the 8th, and quickly mowed down 3 Eagles.
The third time was the charm for the blue-and-whites. They’d lost in the championship in 2023 and ’24, after winning it all in 2019.
Congratulations to coach Jack McFarland and the Wreckers, on a grand slam season!
Click here or below for highlights and interviews, from Gametime CT.
How did you spend yesterday’s Worldwide Knit in Public Day?
This group of happy knitters, stitchers, crocheters, embroiders (and probably more) celebrated with (of course) all their “stuff,” on the Westport Library Riverwalk.
(Photo/Molly Alger)
They stopped for a couple of moments to pose for a photo.
Then it was right back to their fun, creative work.
(Whether you celebrate today by flying Old Glory or cheering on UFC fighters, we hope you’ll take time to salute “06880” too. As in: Please click here to support our work. This American thanks you!)
Do you boat, sail, paddle, row or cruise along the Saugatuck River?
If so, Connecticut’s Department of Transportation wants to hear from you.
They’ve posted a survey, as part of the Saugatuck River Waterway Study. The goal is to support planning efforts for infrastructure improvements, including the Saugatuck River railroad bridge.
Questions relate to a variety of river users, and planned activities within the next 20 years. It takes 5-10 minutes to complete. Click here for the survey.
Questions? Contact Erica Blonde: 857-208-8985, or eblonde@hntb.com.
Saugatuck River railroad bridge. (Photo/Doug Steinberg)
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Molly Alger writes: “When you read about the streets in town being repaired, you have an image of the old surface being torn up and a new surface put down over it.
‘On some streets the work is considerably more extensive — and grueling and challenging for town crews. Whitney Street is being widened, and the sidewalk widened and replaced (much needed). I am astonished to walk by the work every day.
“Huge boulders are being removed, broken up, and/or installed as walls along the road. Truly amazing efforts are being expended on this project.
“The men are rightly proud of their efforts and this project. They are upbeat, polite and attentive every day — and beyond any definition of ‘hard-working.’
“As a Whitney Street resident, ‘thank you’ is grossly insufficient acknowledgment of this grueling work.”
Working hard, on Whitney Street. (Photos/Molly Alger)
Based on the photo below, I called it “Flora Aesthetics & Spa.” I noted that I could find nothing about it online, beyond a similarly named “Flora Aesthetics & Wellness” in Ventura, California.
(Photo/Sal Liccione)
Reader Aini Rockwell pointed out that the business is actually “Elora,” not “Flora.”
Bingo!
Unfortunately, a quick Google search for that name was equally fruitless. This time I found 2 “Elora” aesthetics businesses.
One is in Cyprus. The other is in Qatar.
If anyone knows anything about this new Westport venture, click “Comments” below.
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Prospect Gardens — the spectacular 9-acre arboretum-style Greens Farms space featuring flowers, plants — is open to public twice a year. The next date is tomorrow (Sunday, May 31, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). The event is a partnership with the National Garden Conservancy.
Main garden designers Cindy Shumate and Judy Gardner will there all day, telling stories and answering questions.
Greens Farms Garden Club members will explain how they plant, tend and harvest the 3-tiered vegetable garden. Last season, their harvest of over 1000 pounds was donated to local organizations that feed families in need.
The Staples high School Jazz Ensemble plays at 10:30 a.m. They’ll be fresh off an appearance last night, at New York’s Birdland Club.
The Y’s Men and guests got a sneak preview yesterday.
Y’s Men and guests, at Prospect Gardens. (Photo/Susan Garment)
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Speaking of gardens: Volunteers from 2 clubs — Westport and Greens Farms — lent their green thumbs yesterday to Susie’s House.
The gardeners ensured that everything looks stunning for today’s AWARE event, a fundraiser for Homes with Hope’s Compo Road North supportive housing for young women.
Garden work, at Susie’s House. (Photo/Kathie Motes Bennewitz)
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Summer is here!
A full moon and warm weather brought the grill and picnic crowd to Compo’s South Beach last night.
“John and Jen,” the musical co-written by Staples High School graduate and longtime Westporter Tom Greenwald over 30 years ago, is running now through June 7 at the Berkshire Theater Festival in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.
And finally … the DOT’s survey (story above) got us thinking about how many ways we roll on the river.
(“06880” is proud to be your hyper-local blog. We’re proud to bring you news, features, photos and much more, 24/7/365. And we’d be extra proud if you click here, to support our work. Thank you!)
From 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Jesup Green, the sale features over 1,000 homegrown perennials, Connecticut native plants, herbs, tomatoes and Mother’s Day gifts, along with a “fancy bakeshop.” Proceeds support local civic beautification and environmental projects.
Garden Club members will advice on plant selection — and each plant is tagged with care information.
Plus: Sustainable Westport has a booth, Earthplace sponsors a children’s table with nature-inspired activities, and Book Sale Ventures offers garden-related books for sale.
The Westport Garden Club plant sale is on — rain or shine!
The event (May 28, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church Branson Hall) can help post-high school, and current or graduated college students, build networking skills and learn job search strategies.
It’s hosted by Lisa Cukier and Katie Gervasio, co-founders of the Westport Professionals Network.
For more information and to register, email WPNMixer@gmail.com.
Dozens of Little League players enjoyed Colony pizza — and a great game — at yesterday’s special Staples baseball days.
Down by 3 runs, the Wreckers scored 5 in the bottom half of the final inning — keyed by a Connor Brill’s 2-run homer — to down Fairfield Ludlowe, 11-9.
The young players chased foul balls — and autographs from their new heroes, after the game.
Little Leaguers line up at Staples. (Hat tip and photo/Beth Cody)
Among the many great programs at the Westport Weston Family YMCA, the “Knock Parkinson’s Out” program stands near the top. Twice a week, 35 boxers work with 4 trainers and 7 volunteers, to gain strength, balance and confidence, and enjoy connection.
Bob Levy is a stalwart volunteer. Recently, he gave t-shirts to everyone. The Y made a great poster out of the photo. It was unveiled this week, and now hangs on the wall outside the boxing class.
Class members, trainers and volunteers — some wearing the blue t-shirts — pose by the photo outside the boxing room.
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Emmy, Grammy and 6-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald returns to the Westport Country Playhouse May 19, for an encore evening of music
The singer/actor — a National Medal of Arts recipient, and one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People — last appeared here in February of 2024.
Only voters registered in the Democratic or Republican parties can vote then. The deadline for changing party affiliation is this Monday (May 11). To switch parties, click here, then follow the instructions.
Every month during the school year, longtime Westporter/Shakespeare scholar/former town poet laureate Diane Lowman visits Chris Cormier’s 3rd grade class at the Edison School in Bridgeport.
She teaches them a Shakespeare play. They love learning about the Bard.
But his plays were written to be seen, not read. So Diane and Chris discused how the students could see them performed.
Last year, Staples Players directors David Roth and Kerry Long, and members of the award-winning high school drama ensemble made it happen, performing scenes from “Macbeth.”
The tradition continued this week. Roth’s acting class presented scenes from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
An added bonus: Max Samuels joined them. Earlier this year, the 2011 Players alum visited Edison. This time, he invited the 3rd graders to stand on stage to try their voices at some of the most famous lines from the play (“What fools these mortals be!”).
Afterward, the high schools and youngsters ate pizza and hung out together.
With generous contributions from Westporters, the program will continue for years to come.
Staples and Edison students. Drama teacher David Roth is in the top row, far left. Diane Lowman is in the middle row, far right. (Photo/Kerry Long)
There’s always something going on at VFW Post 399.
Next Wednesday (May 13, 7 p.m.; doors open at 6), JB’s Deli & Pizza offers a full Italian men’s dinner. The menu includes antipasto, salad, sausage and peppers, penne vodka, chicken Francese, eggplant parm, traditional desserts and wine.
Westporters who donated to the care of Onyx, the retired Westport Police K-9 dog — and everyone else — will be glad to hear that the operation on her eye was successful.
And her tumor was not cancerous.
We wish Onyx a speedy recovery, and a frisky retirement. (Hat tip: Kevin Smith)
The 1984 Staples High School graduate — an attorney who earned national attention by winning lawsuits for Sandy Hook families against Remington Arms — explained the groundbreaking case that bankrupted the gun manufacture.
Senator Richard Blumenthal also spoke, praising CAGV for its grassroots, low-key but very effective advocacy work.
Candida Massimino Innaco — a Westport native and gifted musician who returned to her home town, and spent her professional life as a music teacher in the school district — died April 28 in Bridgeport. She was 65.
After Hillspoint Elementary, Long Lots Junior High and Staples High School, the Class of 1978 graduate earned a bachelor of arts in music education from the University of Dayton, and a master of music in saxophone performance from Kansas State University.
She played in bands outside of the university too, including Dixieland and the Fred Robinson Big Band.
Candi dedicated over 35 years to music education in the Westport Public Schools, retiring in 2021. She taught concert band at Bedford Middle School, served as assistant band director at Staples, and band director at Saugatuck Elementary School.
She also directed chamber music and provided private instruction at the high school in support of the concert band, jazz ensemble, and chamber groups. Additionally, she pioneered and coordinated the Westport Youth Arts Collaborative.
Teaching in her hometown was especially meaningful to Candi. She believed“You can’t teach the child until you reach the child,” a principle that shaped her approach to music and mentorship.
Outside of her career, Candida was active in fitness and wellness. She participated in Thrive, a nonprofit that provides supportive care to those facing cancer like herself.
She shared resources with others through her initiative, “Candi’s Corner.” She enjoyed cooking, gardening, publishing music, maintaining an active lifestyle, and caring for animals, especially cats.
Candi is survived by her husband, Curtis, and children Christopher, Olivia and Serena.
Friends are invited to a visitation on Tuesday (May 12, 5 to 8 p.m., Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe_). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, May 13 (10 a.m., St. Lawrence Parish,505 Shelton Ave, Shelton).
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oncology Fund at Smilow Cancer Center.
Candida Innaco
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Most of our “Westport … Naturally” egret photos show them standing around on spindly legs, looking handsome but stationary. Occasionally they might wade.
But Gabriela Hayes spotted this egret in flight, making the most of a Compo Beach low tide.
The bird’s reflection makes this image twice as cool.
And finally … yes, as we noted earlier, today’s Westport Garden Club plant sale is on — rain or shine. So …
(Rain or shine, day and night, “06880” is here for you. And any time — 24/7/365 — you can support our work. Just click here. There will be no sound of silence; instead, you’ll get a nice thank-you email!)
Willie Nelson, Smokey Robinson and Frankie Valli are just a few of the greats to grace the riverfront stage.
Next up: Wynton Marsalis.
Before the world-renowned managing and artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center heads into his final season, he’ll be in Westport on Sunday, June 28.
The evening opens with a set by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Youth Orchestra at 6 p.m. A 2-set performance by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, with Marsalis, follows at 7.
Pre-sale to Levitt Pavilion members is underway now (click here; for membership information, click here). Tickets for the general public begin at 10 a.m. Friday (May 1; click here).
Wynton Marsalis
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Speaking of entertainment: The New York Times has just posted their list of “The 30 Greatest Living American Songwriters.”
And #1 — making him the greatest of all the greatest — is Westport’s own Nile Rodgers.
Okay: The list is unranked. But still, our neighbor is the first one you see.
More than 250 music insiders and 6 Times critics “weighed in on who defines the new American songbook.”
Rodgers’ writeup says:
The titles tell the story. “Good Times.” “I Want Your Love.” “Lost in Music.” “Everybody Dance.” “My Feet Keep Dancing.” “Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah).”
The songs of Nile Rodgers distill the spirit of disco’s heyday: long nights, bright lights, romance, sex and, above all, the communal rapture of bodies moving in unison, following inexorable grooves to a distant plane where the laws of physics seem no longer to apply — at least until the cops show up.
Together with his songwriting partner, the bassist Bernard Edwards (who died in 1996), Rodgers co-founded Chic, the de facto house band of New York’s late-70s disco boom.
A legendary hard partyer, Rodgers was both a habitué of Manhattan’s club scene and its shrewdest chronicler. In the songs he and Edwards composed for Chic and other artists, the gritty glamour of the local demimonde — Black and white and Latino, gay and straight and in between — became a global ideal, immortalized in anthems of freedom and transgression that rippled across the planet.
Tomorrow, the Jazz Society of Fairfield County (aka JazzFC) hosts a free Professional Development Day for professional and pre-professional jazz performers and composers.
The April 30 event runs from noon to 5 p.m., at VFW Post 399.
The afternoon includes sessions on promotion and public relations, booking and self-management, and financial planning — all tailored specifically for jazz musicians.
Saxophonist and educator Vincent Herring will deliver the keynote, on developing and sustaining a life in jazz.
This free program is open to working jazz artists and pre-professionals, ages 18 and up. Registration is required; click here.
Alison Milwe Grace is Connecticut’s Best Female Caterer!
The award — based on voting by CTbites readers — was presented Monday night at New Haven’s Marcel Hotel.
Alison — a Staples High School graduate (and culinary teacher, cookbook author and Food Network competitor) — owns and operates AMG Catering & Events.
For 30 years they’ve served Fairfield and Westchester Counties with 5-course, intimate dinner parties, festive bridal and baby showers, memorable weddings, creative bar and bat mitzvahs, and original fundraisers.
Monday’s event — CTbites’ “It’s a Woman’s World: An Evening to Inspire, Connect and Celebrate CT’s Women in Culinary” — honored “many inspiring and trailblazing females in Connecticut’s culinary industry.” Best Female Caterer was one of 11 categories.
Congratulations, Alison! We’re sure it was a great night.
And we hope the catering was almost as good as yours. (Hat tip: Pat Micinilio)
Alison Milwe Grace, at the CTbites ceremony Monday night.
The hyper-local event (9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Jesup Green) features a bumper crop of over 1,000 perennial plants.
While many sales stock nursery-bought inventory, this one’s 100% homegrown.
Every club member either donates at least 20 nurtured perennials from their personal garden, or joins a “digging team.”
Those teams spend weeks visiting local gardens, to divide and pot plants carefully.
So every plant is “Westport-proven” — already acclimated to our soil and climate. They’re hardy, and ready to thrive in your yard.
So far, the Diggers have potted, weeded and labeled over 100 plants. They’re watered daily, ensuring peak condition for the sale.
Beyond the perennials, there are Connecticut native plants, farm-fresh tomatoes and herbs, hand-crafted Mother’s Day planters and arrangements, and a bake sale.
The next Veterans Benefits Luncheon is tomorrow (Thursday, April 30, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), VFW Post 399).
It’s 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!
VFW benefits luncheon.
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The Harlem Stories Project — a non-profit founded by 2004 Staples High graduate Sarah Bennett, which empowers middle schoolers to tell stories of their West Harlem neighborhood, after interviewing residents — performed their 3rd original show earlier this month. It was co-written by Bennett and fellow Players alum Ginny Levy.
Staples High School Class of 1983 graduate, and longtime Westport resident Kristin Thornton died peacefully April 22, after a long illness.
She attended Marymount College. Kristin studied abroad for a year at the University of Stirling in Scotland, an experience she cherished deeply.
She spent 35 years in operations at Morgan Stanley. She was devoted to her work and colleagues.
Kristin was deeply loved by her 3 nieces and nephews. “They eagerly awaited her frequent visits, her brilliantly simple words of wisdom, and the legendary sleepovers that featured far more cartoon marathons than actual sleep,” her obituary says.
She is survived by her mother, Kathleen Thornton; sister Stephanie Moore Girling (Steve); brother William Thornton (Jessica Branson); nieces and nephews, Elizabeth, Savannah and Spencer Girling; aunt and uncle, Gail and Alan Shea; aunt Deenie Thornton, and many cousins.
Kristin was predeceased by her father, Richard Thornton, and uncles Robert Doyle, John Thornton Jr. and William Thornton.
A funeral service is set for St. Luke’s Church on Friday, May 1 (11 a.m.), followed by a reception and burial at Willowbrook Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Healthcare Workers Fund at the Maefair Center for Health and Rehabilitation in Trumbull.
No, today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo is not from “The Wizard of Oz.”
It could be — but Candice Cardenas’ Old Road image is even more glorious.
(Photo/Candice Cardenas)
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And finally … as the music world mourns the death of Nedra Talley Ross — the last surviving member of the Ronettes, the beloved 1960s girl group, who died on Sunday, age 80, in Virginia — there is a local connection.
When the Beatles toured the US in 1966, both the Ronettes and the Remains were opening acts.
And the Remains — the legendary garage band, featuring Westporters Barry Tashian on guitar and vocals, and Bill Briggs on keyboards — served as the backup band for Nedra and her cousins, Veronica (Ronnie) and Estelle Bennett.
Barry Tashian (center) and the Remains, backing up the Ronettes on the Beatles’ 1966 tour. (Screenshot from “America’s Lost Band.”)
(“06880” is where the Ronettes meet the Remains — and Westport meets the world. If you enjoy those meetings — or anything on our hyper-local blog — please click here to support our work. Thanks!)
AI is changing the way customers find — and choose — local businesses.
Some businesses have harnessed artificial intelligence to learn about those customers, better serve those customers, and grow in the processes.
Other businesses would like to, but don’t know how.
And others have no idea they even need to.
ThoughtPartnr — the Westport-based company that helps local businesses use AI productively and efficiently (and which created the very popular “06880” AI widget) — is hosting an event to learn more.
“The Impact of AI on Search for Small & Medium-Sized Businesses” is set for April 29 (6 to 8 p.m., Dandelion at the Delamar Westport).
The training and networking event — with live demos and apps (the kind you eat) features local business experts like the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, Greg & Tony Salon, and (of course!) “06880.” We’ll talk about how we use AI every day.
1st Selectman Kevin Christie addressed the Westport Rotary Club yesterday. The introduction by a club member was special: It came from former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe.
Christie detailed his first 5 months in office. He has focused mainly on the town’s finances.
Increases in the Parks & Recreation and Public Works budgets, and managing the town’s public debt to finance the new Long Lots Elementary School, were highlights, he said.
Addressing beach erosion and a new Longshore maintenance facility are among upcoming proposed capital expenditures.
Christie also noted that local developer Spinnaker has purchased a portion of the land that comprised the Hamlet proposal for Saugatuck area, after its denial by the Planning & Zoning Commission.
Christie said of Spinnaker’s upcoming proposal, “Hopefully it will be of a more reasonable size and include a meaningful affordable housing component.”
He added that advance planning is a key to heading off town issues before they become crises. Much of that work is done by committees outside of formal town meetings.
Kevin Christie, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club meeting. (Hat tip and photos/Dave Matlow)
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For nearly 50 years, the Minute Man Race has been a fun and important Westport event.
Scheduled every year around the date the British landed at Compo Beach — and were ambushed on the way back from their march to Danbury — the Minute Man Race (get the connection?) brings together runners, walkers and families.
Hosted by the Women’s League of Westport, the event features a USATF-rated 5K run/walk, 10K run, and Kids Fun Run. All ages and levels (including strollers) are welcome.
Race day begins at 8 a.m., with warmups led by Performance Optimal Health. At the finish line are health and wellness partners, including platinum sponsor Saatva, plus The Home Cook, Fleet Feet, and Velocity Sports Medicine. The Tasty Yolk keeps everyone well-fed.
Awards are presented to the top 3 male and female finishers in the 5K and 10K, All Kids Fun Run participants receive recognition.
Net proceeds support the League’s grants program. They’ll distribute $65,000 this year to local nonprofits including Open Doors, the Westport Astronomical Society, VFW Post 399, Levitt Pavilion and Staples Tuition Grants.
Pre-registration and bib pick-up are at Performance Optimal Health on Thursday (5 to 8 p.m.) and Saturday (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.), or register in advance at www.minutemanrace.com). Registration also takes place in person on Sunday morning, up to start time.
For more information, including the race schedule and the race course, click here.
Positive Directions — Westport’s center for prevention and counseling — is gearing up for their 2nd annual “I Ride for Mental Health Spinathon. All funds support the non-profit’s treatment fund, and free support groups and training.
The event is May 3 (12 to 2 p.m., Westport Weston Family YMCA).
It features 2 45-minute rides, 24 bikes, and 1 shared mission: mental well-being for all.
Bikes are $100 each. Riders can raise additional funds, for a chance to win prizes for most miles ridden.
Speaking of great causes: KEYS is one of those life-changing organizations that many Westporters support.
And many others have never heard of, but should.
The non-profit — whose acronym stands for Kids Empowered by Your Support — provides free, high-quality music education, mentorship and performance opportunities for under-resourced students in Bridgeport.
Individual instrument lessons, ensembles, workshops, summer programs and internships help youngsters build confidence and creativity, and discover their passions.
On May 28 (7 p.m., Park City Music Hall, Bridgeport), a night of live music, dinner, cocktails and dancing raises funds to provide much-needed free music education.
The Rock ’N Roll Collective — a Westport-based group of talented young musicians — will perform.
The night also features performances by talented KEYS students, including jazz selections and special collaborations, bringing young musicians from neighboring communities together through the power of music.
The Rock ‘n’ Roll Collective (from left): Zach Newshel, Aidan Schwarz, Jackson Doyle, Brooklyn Setterberg, Ava Vercllone, Bronson Kaiden, Faith Del Grosso, Charlie Glines. Band members not shown: Manny Gerard, Sofie Gerard, Campbell Cohen, James Buck, Mia Zibly.
Studio Café is a wonderful, hidden-in-plain-sight restaurant.
IYKYK. And if you don’t, you should.
You can discover the Sconset Square spot’s magic any day. But there’s a special treat the week before Mothers Day.
An “elevated brunch experience” promises “a curated experience designed to bring women and families together in a space of connection, beauty, and feminine energy.”
The May 3 event (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) includes a luxury giveaway, fashion pop-up, perfume experience, and complimentary Champagne and empanadas.
The Westport Garden Club recently hosted the 3rd annual Youth Poetry finalists, at the Westport Library.
Sponsored by the National Garden Clubs, the contest encourages students to embrace the art of writing while exploring environmental themes. This year’s theme was “Plant America for the Next 100 Years”.
Winners include:
Grade 2: G. Olanoff (Long Lots Elementary School) – “I Planted a Seed”
Grade 3: L. Gordon (Pierrepont School) – “I Love Flowers”; R. Shrestha (Saugatuck Elementary)– “The Big Journey”
Grade 4: D. Deeckan (Homeschool, Westport) – “Pollinators”
Grade 5: R.R. Paransky (Kings Highway) – “A Century of Care”; A.Malhotra (Ridgebury Elementary) – “Small Seeds, Small Me”
Grade 6: S. DeVito (Bedford Middle School) – “Our World” (regional winner; national finalist)
Grade 7: G. Toler (Saxe Middle School) – “A Walk in the Park”
Following the awards, audience members enjoyed a creative “ode” workshop led by Westport poet laureate Donna Disch.
In a world of influencer marketing, it’s difficult to know what’s real.
“Hot Takes” (May 13, 6 p.m., Westport Country Playhouse) offers science-backed, clinically sound information to support women on their midlife wellness journey.
The evening features leading voices in women’s health. Before the event, attendees can visit pop-up shops selling chic eyeglass readers, skincare products, accessories, pajamas and books. Restore Hyper Wellness and Performance Optimal Health will share information on their services.
VFW Post 399 has become Westport’s premier comedy venue.
The laughs continue this Friday (April 24, 8 p.m.; doors open at 7).
Comedians include Teddy Smith, Westport legend Joe Pontillo (Amazon Prime), Jeffrey Paul (“The Irishman”), Susanna Spies, and local favorite John Kenneth. City’s Backyard Podcast Matt Zako is the host.
Stories about how potatoes dominate diets around the world, and pineapples were guarded in European courts, are just part of a new book — “Unknown Facts of Known Plants: Plants That Shaped Our Societies,” by environmentalist, botanist and part-time Westporter Dr. Sibdas Ghosh.
He reveals how plants have quietly influenced human history, cultural traditions, and food habits, and invites readers to look at the greenery around them with fresh curiosity. I
Tomorrow is Yom HaAtzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day.
The Blondinit will donate a portion of proceeds from all sales — including online — to #EndJewHatred and The Lawfare Project. Both organizations combat antisemitism and advocate for justice.
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Today’s spectacular “Westport … Naturally” spring foliage comes from Cross Highway, through the talented lens of Claudia Sherwood Servidio:
(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)
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And finally … happy Earth Day!
(This is indeed a wonderful world. And “06880” is where Westport meets it. If you have a good time sharing it with us, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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