Tag Archives: Westport Lifestyle Magazine

Roundup: Parking Survey, Women Of Westport, 50 Cent …

Posted on June 4, 2025 | 7 comments

Everyone has an opinion on parking in Westport.

Now the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee wants to hear yours.

A 30-question survey is live. It covers respondents’ use and knowledge of parking options, metered parking, a deck and more.

Several questions have the opportunity to expand on answers.

The aim of the survey is to vet the recommendations already developed by consultants and DPIC. Final recommendations will be presented by DPIC to the Board of Selectwomen next month.

To take the survey, click here.

Some of the parking survey questions cover a parking meter app.

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It’s not easy to pass a bill in Hartford.

But for months, Zander Bauer and Elijah Falkenstein plugged away.

The Staples High School juniors — founders and co-presidents of the local Make Our Schools Safe chapter — pushed for a law to authorize the purchase of emergency response communications systems and personal emergency communication devices for school personnel.

Yesterday, their efforts were rewarded. The state House of Representatives voted unanimously — 145 to 0 — to pass the legislation. 

Passed earlier by the Senate, it now goes to Governor Lamont for his signature.

Congratulations to Zander, Elijah, the entire Staples MOSS club, and our own Senator Ceci Maher, its sponsor.

Elijah Falkenstein and Zander Bauer, with “stop the bleed” kits — another Make Our Schools Safe project.

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The Planning & Zoning Commission continues its dizzying round of meetings, on a series of controversial projects, next Monday (June 9, remote).

This time, it’s the Long Lots Elementary School project. Commissioners will consider a new 8-24 request from the town, and a new special permit/site plan.

Long Lots Elementary School site plan.

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Every year. Westport Lifestyle magazine celebrates outstanding “Women of Westport.”

But they do more than just highlight business owners, civic volunteers and others in their pages.

With sponsorship from Saugatuck Financial, they throw a great garden party.

Last night’s bash honored the 2025 women: Mary Dobson, Arvia Few, Sharon Finkel, Bridget Flynn, Ashley Freeman, Kira Greenfield, Joanna Manfro, Liz McKay, Rachel Mila, Tara Welch, Ambar Zaatar and Becca Zipkin.

Congratulations to all. Women of Westport rock!

A few men joined the Women of Westport, at the Westport Lifestyle party. “06880” founder Dan Woog and Monique Hodges enjoyed one of the Vespas on display. (Photo/Jerri Graham)

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Rich Dean and Nas Dean are known for their great work, training people of all ages at Rich Dean Boxing & Fitness on Post Road East across from the Saugatuck Church.

Now they’re known as philanthropists, too. The pair just donated $6,000 to Westport PAL’s scholarship fund.

Thank you both!

Nasir and Rich Dean.

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What does 50 Cent have to do with Westport?

About $1 million.

According to The Source — a hip hop site — the rapper/actor/producer/ entrepreneur recently won a legal victory. He can now seize the Main Street home belong to Mitchell Green, a former executive with 50 Cent’s Sire Spirits Champagne and cognac company.

Green reportedly owes the firm more than $7 million, following an alleged kickback scheme. Read more details here. (Hat tip: John McCarthy)

50 Cent may soon own a Westport home.

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Speaking of entertainment: Steely Dan comes to Weston on Sunday.

Well, at least Logical Pretzel — a cover band — does.

They’ll kick off the 10th season of the Weston History & Culture Center’s “Music at the Barn” series (June 8, 5:30 p.m.).

Tony Pizza Napolitano’s food truck will be there. Bring your own lawn chairs and beverages for the outdoor event. Tickets are available at the door, or here. 

Logical Pretzel

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A bit more than a year ago, Bond Vet replaced Freshii, in the Parker Harding Plaza space near Starbucks.

The veterinary chain — with locations from Boston to Washington, and Chicago too — has closed its Westport and Fairfield offices.

A representative in Bond Vet’s call center said she did not know the reason for the closures.

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The 2nd annual Pickleball To Slam Alzheimer’s event is set for June 20 (6 to 8 p.m., Intensity Racquet Club, Norwalk).

All proceeds from $100 tickets go toward the October 26 Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Sherwood Island State Park.

The pickleball event is hosted by Westporters Mary Sue Teplitz, Dina Upton and Lori Snow. Mary Sue’s mother died from the disease in 2012. Dina’s partner, Gary Cosgrave, passed away from it this year.

Tickets and more information is available here. Esthetic Dental Group of Westport, Saatva, cieTrade and Intensity are sponsors.

Carolyn Rothenberg and Gary Cosgrove.

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Hopkins is a popular private school option, for Westport families.

The New Haven school held its prom last night. Some attendees began with photos at Compo Beach. (Tessie the dog does not go there.)

Congrats to all the upcoming graduates, wherever you live!

(Photo/Richard Abramowitz)

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You could travel far north to see the aurora borealis.

But on Sunday, you didn’t have to.

The northern lights were visible across much of Connecticut. Here’s what Steve Stein saw, near Wilton Road:

(Photo/Steve Stein)

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Seen on Facebook yesterday, in the Marketplace section under the “Casket & Casket Trailer” tab:

The description says: “Selling a couple caskets that were used in haunted houses. Casket trailer has some dents and rot and the inside is stripped – $300 Blue casket is in great condition overall on the outside but has some scratches and the inside is stripped – $600 Pick up in Westport, CT.”

There’s always a back story. If you know this one, click “Comments” below. (Hat tip: Frank Rosen)

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We’ve showcased lots of interesting animals in our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

But we’re hard pressed to find any as intriguing as barred owls.

This one posed willingly for Lee Bollert. In fact, she says, it stared right at her — through a window — for 10 minutes.

(Photo/Lee Bollert)

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And finally … in honor of the items currently for sale on Facebook, from right here in Westport (story above):

(From downtown parking to caskets, and barred owls to 50 Cent: If there’s a Westport connection, we’ll find it. If you enjoy this hyper-local blog, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Education, Local business, Staples HS

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Roundup: Scams, Patrick Church, Super Bowl …

Posted on January 26, 2024 | 4 comments

As scams of various kinds rise, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Westport Police Lieutenant Jillian Cabana discuss email, telephone and other forms of theft.

They join Y’s Men of Westport and Weston member John Brandt, on this week’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast.

Listen below, to learn how to protect yourself and your family from them.

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The tree that took down Compo Road South utility poles earlier this month started a fire at Patrick Church’s home near Park Lane. A pet was killed in the blaze.

His washer, dryer, TV, stove and other appliances must be replaced. He has had to purchase 2 generators, and hire an electrician.

Jeff Shikowitz and his family want to help. Patrick works for a refuse company, and has serviced the Shikowitzes since 2015.

“We have never encountered a more caring and thoughtful person,” Jeff says. “He always has a treat for our dogs, and a kind word for us. We look forward to seeing him during his bi-weekly pickups.”

Jeff has started a GoFundMe page for Patrick. The money will pay for replacement appliances, the electrician, and fuel to run the generators until full power can be restored. Click here for more details, and to contribute.

Patrick Church

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Who will win the Super Bowl?

Hopefully, you.

If, that is, you enter the Sunrise Rotary Club’s raffle.

Tickets are $50 each. Each ticket is assigned a randomly selected pair of numbers — one for each team. If the numbers correspond to the final score — or the end of any quarter, that person wins.

Payouts are $1,000 for the final score, and $500 for scores at the end of each quarter.

You don’t have to watch the Super Bowl — or even care about football — to participate.

PS: One winner is already determined: the many charities that Sunrise Rotary supports. 50% of all ticket sales go there. The other 50% goes to raffle winners.

Click here to buy tickets. Click here for more details on the raffle.

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Westport Lifestyle’s new editor is Sara Gaynes Levy.

Her previous positions include Glamour, Self, The Boston Herald and People StyleWatch. Her work has been featured by the Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, New York Magazine, Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Real Simple, O the Oprah Magazine and others.

Sara lives in Westport with her husband and 3 children. She can be reached at sara.gayneslevy@citylifestyle.com.

Sara Gaynes Levy

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NCAA lacrosse action comes to Staples High School on February 6. #18 Boston University takes on St. Joseph, at Paul Lane Field.

Among the Staples lacrosse alums who have gone on to play for the Terriers: Charlie Howard (current player) and Matt Garber, who earned a master’s degree last year.

 

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Mark Mathias was at Compo Beach last night, and met a few people with dogs. A car pulled up, and projected an image onto the haze over the water.

Here’s what it looked like (with light reflected from dogs’ collars):

(Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Yesterday’s fog also provided a fine photographic background for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature. This is the view from Grace Salmon Park:

(Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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And finally … Paul Newman —  actor, director, race car driver, philanthropist, civic volunteer, neighbor and friend — was born on this date in 1925: 99 years ago.

Happy birthday, Paul. We miss you!

(You don’t have to give away as much money as Paul Newman did. “06880” is grateful for whatever support you can provide. Please click here to help your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Sailing School, Lynda Bluestein, James Comey …

Posted on January 4, 2024 | 5 comments

Though the Parks & Recreation Department has recommended that current Longshore Sailing School operator Jane Pimentel’s lease with the town be extended another 10 years, the Board of Finance last night asked for more time.

And for questions to be answered.

Heidi McGee and Jeff Manchester — Westporters who are involved in competing bids — challenged the transparency of the process, along with the low $5,000 rent proposed. She also said she would make a Freedom of Information Act request about the bid.

After much discussion, including remarks endorsing the current operators, Parks & Rec director Jen Fava’s request was tabled until the next Board of Finance meeting.

Longshore Sailing School. (Photo/Stefen Turner)

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Lynda Bluestein has begun her final journey.

The longtime Westport resident and active Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport member left her Black Rock home yesterday.

News12 Connecticut reports that her husband Paul drove her to Vermont. Last year, she won a lawsuit to allow her — despite being a non-resident — to use the state’s medical aid in dying statute.

Lynda suffers from ovarian and fallopian tube cancer. Her condition deteriorated rapidly this week, News12 says. She was carried out of her home by her son Jake Shannon, and twin granddaughters.

Bluestein’s legacy will live on in many ways. She has been a longtime voice against gun violence. She has advocated for a Connecticut medical aid in dying law.

And last year, she helped place wind phones — disconnected telephones that allow loved ones and friends to “call” people who have died — throughout the area.

A ceremony at the Westport Library — the first such indoor space for a wind phone in the world — drew dozens of friends and admirers.

Click here for the full, loving report from News12’s Mark Sudol.

Lynda Bluestein, during yesterday’s News12 interview.

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In November, “06880” reported that James Comey’s new book will be published in May.

The murder mystery novel from the former FBI director — and also former Westport resident — is about a “make-believe hedge fund called Saugatuck Associates, billed as the world’s largest.”

Aspiring authors are told to “write about what you know.”

Hmmmm … let’s see ,,,  well, Comey was general counsel of Westport-based Bridgewater Associates.

Oh, yeah. The book’s title is “Westport.”

The cover has just been released. Look familiar?

If Comey has a book-signing here, we’ll let you know.

Perhaps at Barnes & Noble.

Or Bridgewater. (Hat tips: Sean McGee, Dick Lowenstein)

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Robin Moyer Chung sends this message to “06880” readers:

“As the editor of Westport Lifestyle magazine for the past 5 years, I’ve been fortunate to pen so many fascinating features of Westport and its residents.

“Every time I left an interview I couldn’t wait to tell the story (well, with one exception). I’d sit down at my laptop and write the first sentence: ‘This will blow your mind.’ ‘What she’s doing is amazing.’ ‘This guy is unbelievable.’

“Then I’d stop and re-examine the superlative. How can I best convey how amazing this person or story is without a ham-handed declaration of adoration?

“For 5 years I’ve loved this challenge. I’ve loved discovering and writing about the outstanding contributions of those who do so quietly and without seeking fanfare. Of those who sculpt our unique landscape of commerce, design, and entertainment. Of those who speak up, dress up, act out, and sing out loud.

“Regretfully, this January 2024 issue is my last one.

“I look forward to the next chapter of Westport Lifestyle, and hope it continues to reflect the dazzling community in which it lives.

“Thank you all! It’s been fabulous!”

Robin Moyer Chung

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The Westport Inn is gone.

A new boutique hotel — owned by the same company that runs the famed Delamar properties in Southport and Greenwich, along with La Plage restaurant and the soon-to-be-renovated Inn at Longshore — is rising in its place.

The target date is this fall.

Construction work on the new Delamar hotel.

Meanwhile, eBay is offering a remnant of the previous incarnation of the Westport Inn: this key from the original “New Englander Motor Hotel.”

Postage may no longer be “guaranteed.”

(Photos/JD Dworkow)

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Westport Police made no custodial arrests between December 27 and January 3.

In the same period, they issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 7 citations
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 6
  • Improper use of markers: 6
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 5
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
  • Evading responsibility: 2
  • Failure to obey a stop sign: 2
  • Larceny: 1
  • Breach of peace: 1
  • Speeding: 1
  • Failure to yield right of way: 1
  • Failure to drive to the right: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1
  • Possession of an abandoned marker: 1

It’s no laughing matter: You can’t put an abandoned license plate on your car.

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He’s 2 years away from getting his driver’s license.

But 14-year-old Vivek Kanthan is a world junior kart racing champion.

Currently competing in Europe, he’ll be at the Westport Library this Sunday (January 7, 2 p.m.), for a “Motorsports 101” presentation.

The teenage racer will discuss his journey, and answer questions.

Vivek Kanthan, with his trophies.

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Ken Runkel — whose works are showcased regularly in “06880”‘s Saturday online art gallery — is the Westport Book Shop’s guest exhibitor this month.

He describes himself as “a digital photographer, photoshop artist, and AI explorer with an unusual imagination, and sometimes twisted sense of humor.”  His work ranges from nature, landscapes and waterscapes to abstracts and surrealistic images.

Runkel spent 4 decades in advertising, corporate identity development and brand consulting with major international firms serving Fortune 100 clients worldwide.  

After retiring in 2017 he focused on digital photography, and digital post-production editing. He now explores the power of artificial intelligence, and how it can expand visual creativity.

A reception is set for January 17 (6 to 7:30 p.m.). RSVP by phone (203-349-5141) or email (bookshop@westportbooksaleventures.org).

All work on display is available for purchase.

Ken Runkel and his art, at the Westport Book Shop.

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Sure, it’s New Year’s.

But flowers are blooming. Susan Leone spotted these, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Susan Leone)

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And finally … today was the birthdate, in 1838, of Tom Thumb. Born with dwarfism, he became a world-famous performer under the direction of P.T. Barnum.

Local connection: Tom Thumb (Charles Sherwood Stratton) was born in Bridgeport. After he died of a stroke at 45, Barnum placed a life-sized statue at his gravesite, Mountain Grove Cemetery in Bridgeport. His wife, Lavinia Warren, died more than 35 years later, and is buried next to him.

(Where else but “06880” can you read about old and new hotels, kart racing and digital art — all in the same place? If you appreciate this hyper-local blog, please click here to support it. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Library, Local business, Media, Police, Sports

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“06880” Podcast: Robin Moyer Chung

Posted on May 15, 2023 | 4 comments

Is there a “Westport lifestyle”?

If anyone knows, it’s Robin Moyer Chung. She’s the editor of Westport Lifestyle magazine.

The other day, she joined the “06880” podcast. We chatted about that intriguing subject; the Westport few people ever see; the ins and outs of publishing, and much more.

Click below to listen to our conversation — and to learn a lot more about the lifestyles (and lives) of our friends and neighbors.

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Roundup: Ed Budget, Farmers’ Market, Traffic Safety, Laura Linney …

Posted on May 3, 2023 | 9 comments

A day after passing the $81.3 million town budget, Westport’s Representative Town Meeting okayed a second, much larger one.

Voting 31-0 after little discussion, the legislative body passed the $144.3 million plan.

The final part of the 3-step budget process is approving the mill rate. That comes later this month.

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In journalism, a “dog bites man” story is one that happens so frequently, it’s not really news.

Without downplaying its seriousness, that’s a good way to describe accidents at the Cross Highway/North Avenue intersection.

Another one took place yesterday at the poorly angled, difficult-to-see-past site. This one involved 2 vehicles, with injuries. The Westport Fire Department released a photo, but provided no other details.

Yesterday’s crash at Cross Highway and North Avenue. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

The Post Road/Wilton Road/Riverside Avenue intersection has been called Westport’s worst.

But at least it has a light.

And, from time to time, a cop.

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Coincidentally, Today’s “Westport … What’s Happening” podcast features 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker’s take on the recent public meeting on street improvement for traffic and pedestrian safety, and the increased Westport Police traffic safety enforcement program.

Click below to listen to this Y’s Men of Westport and Weston production.

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Happy May! And happy return of the Westport Farmers’ Market!

Our favorite outdoor produce-and-much-more celebration returns to the Imperial Avenue parking lot May 11. It runs every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., through early November.

This year promises to be the best in the market’s 17-year history. A variety of programs operating under their “who grows your food” banner will add even more community-inspired programs, vendors, sponsors and activities.

Vendors – WFM favorites and new faces – will hold to high standards of sustainable practices, including plastic-free packaging, and participate in other market-to-community efforts. Among them: Farmer-to-School-to-Community, Farmer Kids Community, Friend of the Market, Recipe, Farmer-to-Veterans, Get Growing, Farmer Fund, Young Shoots, and other programs focused on giving back.

This year’s lunch and music areas will be shaded and separated from the central shopping experience. The Westport Library will select musical guests, through Verso Studios.

For more details, click here or email director@westportfarmersmarket.com.

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Tickets for “Booked for the Evening” — the Westport Library’s big fundraiser — go on sale next Monday (May 8, 10 a.m.; click here).

This year’s guest is Laura Linney. The noted theater, film and television actor will be honored in the Trefz Forum on July 13.

Now in its 24th year, “Booked for the Evening” celebrates an individual whose work reflects the purpose of the Library: to nurture a love of learning, and enhance our understanding of the world.

Laura Linney

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Mexicue — the very popular new Main Street restaurant — has expanded both their menu and hours.

They’ve added dinner-focused “Platos Fuertes,” while at the same time opening for lunch 7 days a week. Their new hours are Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with brunch on weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Weekday happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m.

Updated hours below. We also just launched a new menu with several more dinner-focused “Platos Fuertes” – menu attached.

Mexicue is the newest addition to our “06880” Restaurants tab. Just click on at the top of our home page (or here), for a wide variety of local spots — including menus, websites and social media.

Mexicue’s intriguing interior.

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Speaking of restaurants: Is Emmy Squared coming to Westport?

CTBites — the state’s premier food blog, published by our very own Stephanie Webster — reports the “unconfirmed” news that the “iconic and much-loved” restaurant is looking for staff here.

Begun in Brooklyn in 2016, “they are known for their signature Detroit-style pizza, marked by its square shape, crispy bottom, fluffy dough, cheesy ‘frico’ crust, and signature sauce stripes.

“Their famed double-stack burger, Le Big Matt (served on a pretzel bun), was named ‘#1 Best Burger in Nashville’ by The Tennessean and Nashville Lifestyles, voted one of ‘The Best New Burgers In NYC’ by Gothamist, and listed as one of the ‘20 Best Burgers in NYC’ by The Infatuation. The menu also highlights a selection of approachable salads and sandwiches served on pretzel buns.”

There are now 8 location in New York, Nashville, Philadelphia, Washington and Louisville.”

Pizzas from Emmy Squared.

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In March, “06880” reported on Lynda Bluestein’s crusade. The longtime and very active member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport has terminal fallopian tube cancer. That month she reached a settlement with the state of Vermont, making her the first non-resident to take advantage of a law that allows people with terminal illnesses to end their own lives.

Yesterday, Governor Phil Scott signed a bill that removes the residency requirement from the state’s medical aid in dying law. Bluestein’s case prompted legislators to revise the law for all non-Vermonters. Click here for the full story.

Lynda Bluestein and her husband Paul. (Photo courtesy of NBC Connecticut)

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Westport resident Lee Bly’s home golf course is Longshore.

But on Sunday, at Stamford’s Sterling Farms, the 2007 Staples High School graduate had a hole-in-one. Playing with former classmate Carter Myers, Lee aced the 223-yard par 3 17th hole.

Congratulations, Lee!

Lee Bly, at his now-favorite hole.

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TAP Strength hosts a special Sound Bath Meditation Class tomorrow (Thursday, May 4, 7 to 8 p.m., 180 Post Road East).

Experience deep relaxation, enhanced mental focus, clarity and creativity through crystal and Tibetan bowls, gongs, chimes and other instruments.

Bring a mat and any other items to feel comfortable. Member and non-member class fees apply. Email nancy@tapstrength.com or call 203-292-9353 for more information.

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Jazz at the Post goes international this week.

Japanese pianist Hiroshi Yamazaki will be joined by Takashi Otsuka on bass, and Americans Jason Tiemann on drums and Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” on sax.

There are 2 shows (7:30 and 8:45 p.m., Thursday, May 4; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399). Dinner service begins at 7.

Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

Hiroshi Yamazaki

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Since moving here a couple of years ago, Shona Rhimes has become an avid Westporter.

Westport Lifestyle magazine caught up with our new neighbor, for their May issue. She describes how she chose our town, the buzz behind buying her house, what she’s up to now (a “Bridgerton” prequel) and more. Click here to read.

Shonda Rhimes, last year at the Westport Library. (Photo/Jerri Graham Photography)

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Once upon a time, you saw sights like this in Westport.

(Photo/Carl Addison Swanson)

You still see it in New York.

But — as Carl Addison Swanson, who spotted the sofa and sign on Richmondville Avenue — notes, “This may be the last free thing in Westport.”

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Among the recent “Westport … Naturally” sights this spring: a crabapple tree at Ned Dimes Marina.

(Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

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And finally … Gordon Lightfoot died Monday in Toronto. He was 84.

Though never as popular in the US as in his native Canada — where he was a beloved icon — the folk singer was one of my all-time favorites. He had me with “Go Go Round” in the mid-1960s, and never let go.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Every day, the “06880” Roundup is filled with news you can use [or not — your choice]. If you enjoy this feature, please consider a contribution. Just click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Education, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Local politics, Sports, Transportation

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Roundup: Saugatuck Caroling, Westport Lifestyle, Jersey Boys …

Posted on December 11, 2022 | 2 comments

A wonderful tradition returned to Saugatuck yesterday evening.

The Saugatuck Caroling Crawl came back, after a 2-year COVID-induced absence.

Six Staples Orphenians moved from one restaurant to the next, singing holiday songs and making spirits bright. They hit 14 spots in all.

(Photo/Matthew Mandell)

Carolers began their rounds at the Boathouse. They headed to Parker Mansion, Kawa Ni, The Whelk, Tutti’s and the Black Duck, before making their way to Railroad Place to sing at Tarantino, Harvest, Romanacci and Allium.

They finished by entertaining diners at Match Lobster Burger, Rizzuto’s, Viva Zapata and Dunville’s.

Grateful thanks to Orphs Sophia Betit, Zoe Schwartz, James Dobin-Smith, Alyssa Lee, Deneil Betfarhad and Ethan Tober — and the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, which sponsored the event.

Missed it? Click below for a “taste” at Match Burger Lobster.

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Christian Siriano’s new store, The Collective West, was the site of Thursday’s Westport Lifestyle party. The magazine honored all 2022 Readers’ Choice winners.

With catering by Marcia Selden and The Home Cook, music by Drew Angus and decorations from Blossom + Stem — plus Santa Claus — it was a great way to show off the noted designer’s recently opened place.

Enjoying Westport Lifestyle’s party: Sholeh Janati (abstract artist) and 
Courtney Davis Schlesinger (comedian). (Photo./John Videler for Videler Photography)

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The curtain rose yesterday on “Jersey Boys” at the White Plains Performing Arts Center next month.

Staples High School Class of 2015 graduate Jack Baylis is part of the cast. He’s not a 4 Season — but he does sing a great number in French.

The show runs through January 8. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Jack Baylis, at the White Plains Performing Arts Center. (Photo/Cara Baylis)

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Yesterday’s Roundup piece about the local connections on “In With the Old” — the Discovery+ series highlighting transformations of abandoned structures — mentioned Westonites Brian and Megan Austin Philpott, and former Westport Planning and Zoning Commission member Al Gratrix.

But there’s much more detail

Brian Philpott is a project manager for The O’Dell Group. The local construction firm put together a team of 20 people to frame that addition in one day.

He’s just one of 4 project managers with Staples ties. Owner Chris O’Dell, Lukas Van Zanten and Chuck Hilman graduated from high school — and so did Philpott’s wife.

PS: The celebration at the end of that day was catered by Matt Storch — another Staples High grad, and the owner of Match Burger Lobster and Match restaurants.

From left: Chris O’Dell, Lukas Van Zanten, Brian Philpott, Chuck Hilman.

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Congratulations to Barry Kresch.

The Westport resident and EV Club of Connecticut president will be honored by the Connecticut Southwestern Area Clean Cities Coalition as EV Evangelist of the Year.

He has spoken on several panels, for example discussing a financial analysis he did for the Westport Police about electric vehicles. Click here for a blog post he wrote on the department’s Tesla.

The celebration is Tuesday (December 13, 11 a.m., Fodor Farmhouse, Norwalk).

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Winter arrives on December 21.

This guy — the subject of today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — is getting ready. He’s no fool.

(Photo/Marisa Lambert)

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And finally … in honor of Jack Baylis’s “Jersey Boys” show (story above):

(‘Tis the season to support “06880.” Please click here to help — and thank you!)

 

 

 

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Posted in Environment, Local business, Restaurants, Saugatuck, Staples HS

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Roundup: Ukraine, Santa, Brien McMahon …

Posted on December 9, 2022 | 1 comment

The war in Ukraine has moved off the front pages.

But it’s still very close to Mark Yurkiw’s heart.

The Westporter (who has Ukrainian heritage) continues to work on a variety of projects to help that embattled country. He writes: “Missiles are raining down on Ukraine today. They are specifically meant to destroy access to heat, light and water.

“A group I am working with was given the chance to fill the balance of the next shipping container going to Ukraine in 5 days.

“‘06880’ readers can save lives by donating used generators, chainsaws, sleeping bags, flashlights and cell phone power banks. Non-working chainsaws and generators are fine. We will repair them.”

They can be brought to 190 Cross Highway and left by the barn any time. For questions or pickup arrangements, call Mark: 646-873-0050.

NOTE: Other containers will follow soon. The equipment collection is ongoing.

Mark Yurkiw has not forgotten his native Ukraine.

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Last night’s party honoring Westport Lifestyle magazine’s 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards winners featured fantastic food, an exciting venue (Christian Siriano’s Collective West) — and the most buff Santa ever to hustle down a chimney.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

This one bore a striking resemblance to RTM member/Staples High School graduate/longtime volunteer Andrew Colabella.

Ho ho ho!

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Westport’s has a new pop-up shop: Megan’s Martha’s Vineyard Boutique.

The women’s clothing and accessories boutique on Church Lane has a season location on the actual Vineyard.

Owner Molly Kopp is from Westport. Her family moved around a bit, and she landed on the island full-time while in college.

She worked for Megan, and after graduation asked about partnering on a Westport location.

The store opened last month. It will be here — opposite Spotted Horse — until at least January 1.

Megan’s Martha’s Vineyard pop-up.

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Staples and Brien McMahon High Schools compete against each other in many FCIAC (Fairfield County league) sports.

Now the Westport mother of former Wreckers is trying to help the Senators.

Lisa Marriott — whose sons were Staples  track stars — heard that McMahon boys indoor track coach Valerie Kalunian needs used track spikes and/or running sneakers for some of her athletes. Without them, they cannot participate this winter.

“Those shoes can be very costly for students, and hard to find in local stores,” she says. “Over the years we have tried to gather extra spikes/racing shoes/training shoes for those that may not have them, but our selection is limited.”

Running shoes can be dropped off at the Town Hall front desk starting Monday (put Lisa Marriott’s name on the bag or box). For other options, email lsmarriott@gmail.com. To donate cash, click here for a GoFundMe page.

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Ring-around-a-rosiesPocket full of posies …

Come on, Westport students. You can write a much better garden-related poem  than that timeworn ditty.

Here’s your chance. The Westport Garden Club has partnered with the Westport Arts Advisory Committee, town poet laureate Jessica Noyes McEntee and the Westport Library to sponsor a Youth Poetry Contest.

Affiliated with the National Garden Club’s Youth Poetry Contest, it’s open to public and private school students in kindergarten through 9th grade, plus those who are home schooled.

The competition encourages youth to embrace their creativity, using nature as inspiration.

The theme for the 2023 competition is “Seeds, Trees, and Bees…Oh My – Celebrating the Diversity of Nature”

Poems should be emailed to westportctgardenclub@gmail.com by January 6. Click here for guidelines, and more information.

Inspiration may come from this Westport Garden Club arrangement.

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No, the Ned Dimes Marina was not on fire yesterday.

It was just the Westport Fire Department doing what they always do, to keep us safe: checking equipment, and training.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

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Everyone in Westport goes to Compo Beach in the summer.

Plenty go in late spring and early fall.

December — not so many.

If you don’t know what it looks like when the wind is whipping and the skies are gray — as they were earlier this week — check out today’s “Westport … Naturally” scene:

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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And finally … the Westport Garden Club’s youth poetry contest reminded me of …

(Promises, promises … please click here to help support “06880,” your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Restaurant Pickups, Winter Olympics, The Walters …

Posted on January 26, 2022 | 5 comments

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The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce “Order Direct/Pick It Up” initiative has educated Westporters to use restaurants’ actual websites (or phones) to place pick-up orders. That’s because Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub and similar platforms take huge chunks of the bill for themselves.

Now the word has spread throughout the state. Other Chambers of Commerce are educating their residents too.

Now the Westport Weston Chamber is going a step further.

Click here, then scroll down for “direct” clickable links and phone numbers of Chamber restaurants. Now there’s no excuse to hand over much of a restaurant’s profit to 3rd-party apps.

The list includes:

  • 190 Main
  • Allium
  • Amis
  • Bistro du Soleil
  • Black Duck
  • Boathouse at Saugatuck Rowing Club
  • Don Memo
  • Dunville’s
  • Gabriele’s
  • Granola Bar
  • Harvest
  • Kawa Ni
  • Little Barn
  • Manna Toast
  • Match Burger Lobster
  • Naan
  • Pane e Bene
  • Rive Bistro
  • Rizzuto’s
  • Romanacci Express
  • Sakura
  • Sherwood Diner
  • Spotted Horse
  • Tarantino
  • Tarry Lodge
  • Terrain Garden Café
  • Tutti’s
  • Via Sforza
  • Viva Zapata
  • Wafu
  • Walrus Alley
  • The Whelk

(Graphic courtesy of Miggs Burroughs)

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The Winter Olympics open in 9 days, in Beijing. Of course there’s a Westport connection.

Our neighbor Julia Marino is on the US snowboarding team (slopestyle/big air).

With no fans, friends or family — plus COVID rules, political pressure, burner phones (!) and zero real snow (!!), it will be nothing like her previous Olympics.

Westport journalist Dave Briggs interviewed our local Olympian for his Westport Lifestyle Instagram Life series. Click here for her candid, up-close-and-personal view of these very unusual Olympics Games.

Dave Briggs and Julie Marino.

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Last month, “06880” reported on The Walters. The band — fronted by 2010 Staples High School graduate Walter Kosner had broken up, but became social media-famous thanks to a sudden slew of TikTok videos.

I included a link to their biggest hit, “I Love You So.”

But tomorrow (Thursday, January 27, 11:35 p.m.), Westporters — and everyone else in the world — can watch The Walters live. They’ll be on Jimmy Kimmel Live, on ABC.

They probably won’t be on for 15 minutes. But they will be famous.

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Several Staples students have taken the first step toward national recognition.

Judges have chosen winners in the PTA’s annual Reflections contest. They advance to the state level; after that comes the national competition.

Congratulations to 1st place winners Charlie Jandora (Literature), Jason Capozucca (Music) and Shivali Kanthan (Visual Arts), runners-up Josh Gordon, Jadon Laitman and Camille Vynerib, and 3rd-place finisher Hugh Kennedy.

Reflections winners: Front row (from left): Charlie Jandora, Shivali Kanthan, Camille Vynerib Rear: Jason Capozucca, Jaden Laitman, Hugh Kennedy, Josh Gordon, principal Stafford Thomas.

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We’re midway through dog season at Compo Beach. They take to the sand and shore like they own it. Which — from October to March — they do.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo comes courtesy of Karen Como.

(Photo/Karen Como)

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And finally … on this date in 1934, the Apollo Theater reopened in Harlem. Begun as a white-only burlesque house in 1914, it fell into disrepair. It was transformed 2 decades later into a jazz venue, with primarily Black performers and patrons.

Duke Ellington was on the opening day bill in 1934. So was Benny Carter and his Harlem Club Orchestra. He probably played this hit, recorded 3 months earlier:

 

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COVID Roundup: No Camp? WTF!; Barbers; Playhouse Match; Senior Photos; More

Posted on May 29, 2020 | Comments Off on COVID Roundup: No Camp? WTF!; Barbers; Playhouse Match; Senior Photos; More

How you gonna keep ’em down on the farm?

This summer at least, you can’t. Wakeman Town Farm announced that its popular Farm Camps will not run this summer. Officials cited the many restrictions put on camps by the state; the challenges of social distancing; the limited number of children who could be served, and “the unknowns related to pediatric reactions to the virus.”

WTF hopes to offer small tours and experiences, private family and corporate visits, outdoor curbside pizza pickups, volunteer opportunities and small-group apprentice programs. Details will be announced soon.

Barber shops can reopen on Monday (June 1). There are sure to be changes, in routine and personnel.

Three of Westport’s favorites — Chau Damico, Tony Esposito and Tina Cao — will be back at work. They’ve moved, though — but not far at all.

After decades at Compo Barber Shop, the trio can be found now at Westport Hair & Co. That’s the salon next to now-closed Olympia Sports, a few yards east in the same Compo Shopping Center.

They look forward to seeing the customers they’ve missed, and welcome their texts: Chau (203-278-0467), Tony (203-222-0303) and Tina (203-909-8781).

This morning, “06880” profiled the Saugatuck Rowing Club’s efforts to help front line workers, local restaurants, and club employees and members.

Now they’ve tweaked their logo. The goal of any crew team is to “pull together.” Saugatuck’s rowers may not be racing now. But every day since the pandemic began, that’s exactly what they’ve done.

The Westport Country Playhouse was hit hard by the coronavirus. All 2020 programs have been moved to 2021 (though a wide range of online content keeps audiences engaged). Financially, they’ve taken a huge hit.

Their “Survival Fund” goal is ambitious: $1.6 million. But it got a big boost this week, with a pledge from Edwin and Maureen Schloss. They’ll match every dollar raised — up to $250,000 — between now and July 4.

This would have been the Playhouse’s 90th season. Ed has been around for more than half of them. In 1969, he and his parents attended the world premiere of “Butterflies Are Free,” starring Blythe Danner and Keir Dullea. The show moved to Broadway, and Danner won a Tony there.

Tax deductible contributions may be made by clicking here, or texting WCPMATCH to 71777.

Staples High School’s seniors won’t get a traditional graduation next month. But they’ll be celebrated by Westport Lifestyle Magazine, in the August issue.

Hi-res photos — serious or fun — should be sent by June 5 to robin.chung@lifestylepubs.com. Include names, and a quote about summer plans or other positive thoughts.

Ariana Napier’s Bridgeport Rescue Mission food drive continues. Her goal is to collect 1,000 pounds of good each week.

Items most in need now: cereal; mac and cheese (box); jelly (no glass), and canned vegetables.

Fod and/or personal care items (diapers, wipes, sanitary pads, etc.) can be dropped in bins in Arianas driveway (14 Jennings Court, off Bayberry Lane). She will also pick up from your driveway. Email ariana.napier@gmail.com.

And finally … what has former Beach Boy Mike Love been up to these days?

God only knows. Well, YouTube does too:

 

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