With speeches, music and many rainbows, Westport celebreated Pride today.
The 5th annual event — sponsored by Westport Pride — drew a couple of hundred members of the LGBTQ+ community, and allies, to Jesup Green.
Several speakers — including state and local legislators, human rights advocates, and Miss Connecticut USA Shavana Clarke, the first openly lesbian state titleholder — noted how far the LGBTQ community has come in terms of acceptance and legal righs, and yet also how endangered some of those gains are.
Shavana Clarke talks about her religious upbringing as a Jamaican female, and the community she’s found now as a queer woman.
But despite the political climate, and the heat and humidity, the mood was upbeat.
Pride is a day of celebration. After proclamations from State Senator Ceci Maher and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, the entertainment began.
Happy Pride!
From left: 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, Westport Pride co-president Brian McGunigle and his kids, and 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker.
From left: Kevin Christie (Board of Education), Amy Wistreich (Planning & Zoning Commission), State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, State Senator Ceci Maher, Westport Pride co-presidents Brian McGunigle and Kayla Iannetta, State Representative Dominique Johnson, Connecticut Against Gun Violence chair Melissa Kane, StartUp Westport co-founder Peter Propp.
Temple Israel cantor Julia Cadrain, and assistant cantor Becky Mann.
The Westport environmentalist — who chaired the Westport Community Gardens for over 20 years, and established the Long Lots Preserve — was honored Wednesday by Aspetuck Land Trust.
At their annual meeting, the non-profit preservation organization cited him for his work as “a leading voice in defending and restoring community green spaces … and for rescuing dozens of native shrubs and trees from the bulldozer, now replanted at ALT’s Kupinse Preserve in Easton — ensuring these natives continue to thrive and inspire.”
Make-Modern is a spot to learn and create in a variety of crafts: sewing, needlepoint, knitting, crocheting and more.
Their third location — after Darien and Greenwich — is 180 Post Road East (across Bay Street from Design Within Reach).
Make-Modern will offer summer camps, with different projects and themes “each darn week.” Students will learn to sew, bead, weave, knit, print and more.
The space can be rented for group events too, like birthday parties, bridal showers, book clubs, family reunions and nights with friends.
Make-Modern’s goal is to “inspire creativity, build self-cofidence,” and help people make new friends while creating “amazing” projects.
“Kickoff to Summer: Happy Hour Cooking Class (today, Friday; 4 to 5:30 p.m.).
“Out of the Marvelous: The Poetry of Seamus Heaney” (July 9, 16, 23; 10:30 a.m. to noon).
“At Tour and Happy Hour at the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum” (July 11, 4 to 6:30 p.m.).
“AI According to Hollywood” (July 17, 28; August 11, 25; 7 to 8 p.m.).
“All About Bees: Honey Tasting and Honeybee Preparation” (July 26, 2-3:30 p.m.).
“Creating Digital Art With Your iPad” (August 5, 12, 19, 26; 10 a.m.-noon).
“Art Tour at the Bruce Museum” (August 17, 2-3 p.m.).
The Library’s Happy Hour Cooking Class is today (Friday).
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The newest addition to the Westport Country Playhouse summer calendar is Linedy Genao.
Set for August 12 (7 p.m.), “Songs From My Sala” is an “intimate, soulful journey.”
Genao takes the audience from performing in her family’s Dominican Republic living room to starring as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s first Latina leading lady to originate a role on Broadway.
Westport has plenty of inane, gratuitous and otherwise useless signs.
For example: “School Bus Stop Ahead.” There’s a school bus stop every 10 yards in Westport, so why single any one out?
Also, those warning that violators of a certain condition — “One Hour,” “Parking for Patrons of [Insert Name] Only” — will be towed. And not just that, but “Immediately.” When was the last time that happened?
Yet this one — from the medical offices at 162 Kings Highway North — must be at the top of any list of inane Westport signs:
Isn’t any parking slippery “when icy or wet conditions exist”? (Or, simply, “when icy or wet.”)
And why illustrate with an image of a break dancer with jazz hands?
And finally … on this date in 1863, West Virginia was admitted as the 35th state in the union. It separated from Virginia, which had seceded 2 years earlier.
(Whether you’re in Westport or West Virginia,”06880″ is your place for all the news, opinions, photos and more about our town. If you enjoy our work, please support us by clicking here. Thank you!)
The Board of Finance was scheduled to meet June 4, to discuss a $98 million appropriation for the new Long Lots Elementary School.
That meeting — for discussion only — has been rescheduled for June 5 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium). The funding amount has been reduced to $93 million.
A second Long Lots meeting is set for June 11. A vote may be taken then.
Meanwhile, before the full Representative Town Meeting votes on the final approval, the RTM Education Committee discusses the request for funding.
That meeting takes place June 10 (5:30 p.m., Town Hall Room 201).
The current Long Lots Elementary School. (Drone photo/Brandon Malin)
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At 10 p.m. Tuesday on Roseville Road near Joanne Circle, a coyote standing near the wood line lunged at a dog. The owner quickly took the dog inside.
Westport Animal Control advises:
Supervise your pets while they are out in the yard.
While out at night with your pets, carry a powerful flashlight and keep tabs on your surroundings.
Coyotes can be successfully driven away using noise (high-decibel whistle or air horn) or thrown objects (balls, sticks, rocks).
If you are walking a small pet and see a coyote, pick the pet up. Any time you are with your pet and see a coyote, give them a wide berth. Retreat gradually, but keep eyes on the coyote. Be assertive and noisy (yell or use a whistle).
A fenced enclosure is the best way to prevent unexpected encounters. Deer fences do a poor job of excluding smaller species like coyotes. They often slip underneath.
Motion-sensitive lights help alert homeowners to wild intruders at night, and help deter coyotes.
Pets smaller than 30 pounds are at serious risk from coyotes, but on occasion they tussle with larger pets. Even larger pets benefit from supervision.
Coyotes can be active day or night.
Coyotes are found throughout North America. They are adaptable and opportunistic. Statistically, they pose very little risk to humans. There have been only 1 recorded fatal attacks by coyotes on humans in the last 100 years in North America.
But they do pose risks to pets.
Compo Beach area coyote. (Photo/Richard Gabor)
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One of Westport’s signature (and most fun) fundraisers is just a week away.
“Taste of Westport” takes over the Inn at Longshore on June 5 (6 p.m.). 100% of the proceeds go directly to CLASP, which provides homes and services for adults with autism and developmental disabilities across Fairfield County.
This year’s lineup of superb food and great drinks is the biggest ever. There’s a first taste from ănăn (the team behind Nômade), and first-time participants The Bridge at Saugatuck, The Whelk, Bar Bushido, The Blondinit and Barcelona.
Plus a caviar bar by Nordic Fish (paired with Moët Champagne), along with returning favorites like Gabriele’s, La Plage, Don Memo, Artisan and more.
And … a martini bar, signature cocktail, Oggi gelato, Bridgewater chocolate …
The silent auction features a Lime Rock driving experience, tickets to “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” weekend getaways, wines, designer jewelry, opera tickets, a block party package with live entertainment, a week of dinners from participating restaurants, and (of course) more.
The only thing slower than Post Road traffic is the pace of the Post Road renovation.
But occasionally, work is done.
Here’s the view by Volvo of Westport:
(Photo/Michael Calise)
Notice we said “work is done.” Not necessarily “progress.”
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From the road to the water … Eric Bosch sends this photo:
He writes: “The ‘bug light’ blinks every 3 seconds just off the canons, marking the entrance from Long Island Sound into the Saugatuck River.
“In my 60+ years here, I’ve never seen it pulled into Compo Basin.”
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Pride Month parties continue on June 22.
Westport Pride presents “Fête en Blanc” (June 22, 6 to 9 p.m., Westport Museum for History & Culture). The fundraiser for The Circle Care Center — a Norwalk-based HIV prevention and treatment organization — celebrates “community, culture and compassion.”
The outdoor event incudes music, dancing, drinks, raffles and auctions. Attendees can purhcase Latin-inspired cuisine from a food truck — and should wear white. (That’s a tribute to the “white parties” in the LGBTQ+ community in the 1980s and ’90s, which raised funds for HIV/AIDS awareness and support.)
Westport Police made 1 custodial arrest between May 21 and 28.
A 40-year-old New Rochelle, New York woman was charged with larceny, and conspiracy to commit larceny and forgery, after a report that various Webster Bank branches were scammed out of $3,000 since January. The woman allegedly deposited forged money orders into her account. She was held on $50,000 bond.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 12 citations
Driving while texting: 4
Failure to renew registration: 2
Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
Driving the wrong way on a 1-way street: 1
Following too closely: 1
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1.
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Richard Silverman — cantor emeritus of Temple Israel — has died.
The temple says: “A cantor is the voice of a congregation, and from 1988 to 2013, Cantor Silverman was our voice.
“His was the voice that helped us greet Shabbat and holidays, the voice of Jewish celebration and Jewish comfort, the voice that supported b’nei mitzvah students in preparation for their milestone day, and the voice upon which our prayers ascended to the Divine. Cantor Silverman played a very special role in the lives of so many in our congregation, and his memory and music will be an abiding blessing.”
Cantor Richard Silverman is survived by his wife Batya, children Sarit and Elan (Heather), and grandchildren Sarah, Jacob and Emilie.
A funeral will be held on June 3 (11 a.m., Temple Israel), and livestreamed. Shiva will be observed on June 3 following the burial until 8 p.m., and June 4 and 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. (with a minyan at 6:30 each evening) at River Valley Retirement Community (101 Oakview Dr, Trumbull).
Cantor Richard Silverman
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In today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature, the eagle has landed (at Compo Beach).
In the flurry of news about affordable housing, Staples coaches, the Hamlet, the Cribari Bridge, Long Lots Elementary School and the Community Gardens — are we forgetting anything? — we missed an important occasion yesterday.
Yesterday marked the 190th anniversary of the founding of Westport.
The official date of our establishment as a separate town — cleaved off from Norwalk, Weston and Fairfield — was May 28, 1835.
We apologize for the oversight. But don’t worry: May 28, 2035 is already on our calendar. (Hat tip: Harris Falk)
(The proper gift for a 190th birthday is … uh, we have no idea. The proper gift for “06880” — today, and every day, is a contribution to support our work. Thank you for clicking here!)
Applications must be made at least 7 days in advance. They’re limited to 1 reservation per household per season (a second may be granted, based on availability).
The centerpiece is Westport Pride’s townwide celebration (Saturday, June 22, 12 noon to 3 p.m., Jesup Green). Music, food, vendors, rainbows and much more — and (of course) everyone is invited!
Two weeks earlier (June 8, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), Saugatuck Congregational Church hosts a family picnic and party on their front lawn
LGBTQ families — and allies, or course, — are invited to enjoy a bounce house, lawn games, face painting, crafts, hot dogs, cake, and more.
For more information, call 203-227-1261, or email sarah@saugatuckchurch.org.
(Photo/Sal Liccione)
Temple Israel has a host of activities planned for Pride Month too. They include:
“Unspoken” screening and discussion (June 10, 6 p.m.). The film is about a closeted teen in a religious community who discoverd that he might not be alone. A discussion with writer/director Jeremy Borison follows. Register here.
Pride Shabbat and concert with Elana Arian (June 13, 6:30 p.m.) open to LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
Rainbow challah bake (June 21, 5:30 to 8 p.m.) — to be shared the next day, at Westport Pride. Open to all; register here.
Temple Israel is also organizing its first LGBTQ+ affinity group — a safe place for those who identify with the community, and allies. For more information, email jcadrain@tiwestport.org.
Meanwhile, Weston celebrates its own Pride on June 3 (4 to 6 p.m., Town Green, 56 Norfield Road).
They’ll raise a rainbow flag, hear from local officials supporting the town’s inclusive culture, and (in conjunction with the Weston Library) host a craft- and Pride-themed story time.
Oh, yeah: There’s an ice cream truck too!
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The Westport Library’s spring book sale opened yesterday, with a rush.
But there are still plenty of great volumes — and music, movies and more — available.
Hours are:
Today (Saturday): 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (almost everything half-price)
Monday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (fill our logo bag for $10 per bag, or your own equivalent bag for $8, or buy individual books at half-price).
A tiny portion of the many books. (Photo/Pam Docters)
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The Architectural Review Board meets on May 27 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall Room 309).
Among the agenda items: “To review and comment on the proposed construction of a new Long Lots Elementary School/Stepping Stones Pre-School…. Comments offered at the meeting will be considered in anticipation of further zoning review and approvals.”
So far, only general drawings have been shown of a new Long Lots School.
In just a few weeks,”Sunday Gravy” — the talk radio show hosted by Chris O’Dell (Staples High School athlete and coach), Mac DeVito (Staples football legend and coach), and Brian Philpott (son of Staples’ football defensive coordinator) — has gained a devoted following.
The conversation and banter is wide-ranging, casual, and always interesting.
Tomorrow’s show — from 12:10 to 1 p.m., on 95.9 FM and 600 AM WICC should be especially intriguing.
The 3 hosts will dive into the recent controversy involving the non-renewal of Staples boys soccer head coach Russell Oost-Lievense.
O’Dell has intimate knowledge of the situation. He was part of the Staples soccer staff for 20 years, and worked closely with Oost-Lievense.
“Sunday Gravy” is broadcast throughout southern Connecticut. But it’s very much a local production. Shows are taped at the Westport Library’s Verso Studios — and the 2 stations are owned by Westport-based Connoisseur Media.
“Sunday Gravy” crew, at Verso Studios (from left): Mac DeVito, Brian Philpott, Chris O’Dell.
As they prepare to leave Westport after several decades, Carl Swanson and JoAnn Miller must dispose of several large, compelling — but heavy — sculptures by their longtime friend, the late Kelley Spearen.
One has already found a new life. The couple donated it to Wakeman Town Farm, not far from their home off North Avenue.
The move was made recently. Today, it’s the newest — and most intriguing — addition to the Cross Highway farm.
The mural showing early-20th century Westport life — a decades-long feature of the long-gone Townly restaurant — was resurrected when Banana Republic moved in.
That store was briefly replaced by Oka. Now it’s gone.
But the mural can be seen, as work is done inside.
(Don’t be a snake! If you read “06880” — and you’re here doing just that — please toss us a few bucks, to support our work. Just click here. Thank you!)
Five years ago, Brian McGunagle wondered: “Where is Westport’s LGBTQ community?”
After 4 years in town, he and his husband Stephen Gustafson were happy. They felt safe and supported. Through a Facebook group for same-gender parents, they had arranged playdates for their nearly 2-year-old son.
But they wanted more than a quiet, open suburb.
Five years later, much has changed.
Westport Pride — the group Brian founded — has thrived. It’s organized 4 large Pride celebrations; the fifth is set for June 22, on Jesup Green. A party will follow.
Staples High students, at the 2024 Pride celebration on Jesup Green.
Under the leadership of Kayla Iannetta, Westport Pride has partnered with Gender Sexuality Alliances at Staples High School, and the 2 middle schools, and helped organize “UBU” days at the elementary level; worked on Westport Library programming; brought a rainbow crosswalk to Jesup Road, and sponsored 3 drags shows.
A number of LGBTQ parents moved to town during COVID. McGunagle estimates there are at least 2 dozen families with same-gender parents here now — and that is probably low.
Plus: Their son now has a younger brother.
Brian McGunagle (sport coat), his husband Stephen Gustafson and their sons, at the Jesup Road rainbow crosswalk.
But not all the news is positive. The changing national climate has made young transgender Westporters feel unsafe. Some students who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer or questioning also stand in the shadows.
There is “a lot of fear with parents of LGB — and especially trans — youth,” McGuangle notes.
He says the Supreme Court may take up a case in which parents of trans youngsters could be held criminally responsible for child abuse.
There is “more open bullying” around sexuality issues, he says, in schools and on social media like Westport Back Porch.
Temple Israel had one of the many booths at 2024 Pride.
LGBTQ Westporters without families — singles and seniors — are also looking for a community.
As the father of a 6-year-old and a future Stepping Stones Preschool student, McGunagle continues to search for ways parents like him can connect with each other, and for LGBTQ kids to find others they can identify with.
McGunagle uses the “PTA” letters to describe the groups he wants involved: (P)arents and (T)eachers who identify as LGBTQ, and (A)llies like parents of LGBTQ children.
The DEI Committee has welcomed Westport Pride’s participation, he says. He hopes to find 2 representatives from every school, so that the LGBTQ group can be formalized, much like Special Education is now.
A “playground playdate” for same-gender parents is set for May 4, 3 to 5 p.m. at Saugatuck Elementary School.
“DEI is under fire, at the national level,” McGunagle acknowledges. “But the district seems to be behind it still, in Westport.”
Meanwhile, he says,Westport Pride is always looking for volunteeers: at the board level, and to help with events and fundraising. If interested, email westportctpride@gmail.com.
(“06880” regularly covers every aspect of Westport life. If you enjoy reading about neighbors you know, and those you have yet to meet, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Right on schedule — actually, a few days early — a Fresh Market osprey is back.
The nest next to Terrain is occupied by at least one of the magnificent raptors. The second member of the pair usually arrives after the first.
As we do every year, Westport waits anxiously for the little ones. (Hat tip: Dana Kuyper
Fresh Market osprey. (Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)
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Earlier this month, the Democratic Town Committee’s nominating committee interviewed 4 “excellent” candidates for this November’s first selectperson election. It’s an open seat, now that incumbent Jen Tooker is running for governor.
The nominating committee settled on 2 “very qualified” candidates to present to the full DTC. Board of Education member Kevin Christie was one. The other asked not to have their name put forward.
However, despite a previous announcement, the full DTC will not vote on a candidate next month. Instead, in July they’ll introduce Christie’s name. At that point, nominations can be made from the floor.
That information was offered to DTC members — and other attendees — at last night’s monthly Zoom meeting, by chair Michelle Mechanic.
Next month, the Democrats also begin interviewing candidates for all open board and commission seats.
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Americans discard 20 million mattresses and box springs annually. That’s 55,000 that land in incinerators and landfills each day.
But up to 90% of old mattresses can be recycled into carpet pads, exercise equipment cushions, bike seats, insulation, air filters and steel materials.
Sustainable Westport can help. They’ll host a free mattress/ box spring recycling event on Saturday, April 26 (8:30 to 11:30 a.m., Earthplace).
Dry and unsoiled mattresses and box springs are welcome. Please do not bring those that are damaged, wet, or contaminated (bed bugs, etc.).
If you can’t bring your mattress or box spring, Westport Boy Scout Troop 36 will provide a pickup service for a small donation. Click here to sign up.
Twenty Staples High School seniors will graduate in June with high honors.
They represent the top 4% of the graduating class. Congratulations to Aidan Stubbs, William Borowsky, Andrew Rebello. Annam Anjolaoluwa Adachukwu Olasewere, Sam Rossoni, Jackson Tracey, Cole Siegner, Perrin Root, Mack Haymond, William Boberski, Carolina Proctor, Alexis Krenzer, Mia Bomback, Matthew Guadarrama, Abe Lobsenz, Alessandra Gavriloiu, Megan Sargent, Kendra Cheng, Shreyas Gorre and Suhani Aggarwal.
Principal Stafford Thomas notes, “these students were involved in a number of extracurricular activities and various aspects of school life which took a great deal of time, focus and concentration outside of the classroom. We were lucky to have had them for 4 years, and will no doubt hear about their next great achievements in the years to come.”
Staples High School Class of 2025 high honors students, flanked by assistant principal Pat Micinilio (far left) and principal Stafford Thomas (far right).
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VersoFest is near. Time to take the Westport Library decibel level up another few notches.
Actually, more than that. On Saturday, April 5, the goal is to become the loudest library ever.
Starting at 10 a.m., visionary artist 5iveFingaz hosts a 90-minute celebration. It includes a rotating cast of DJs, “an electrifying fusion of music, art, and community, and the Library version of a primal scream.” (Plus doughnuts and beverages.)
“Our goal is to make this a true celebration and community experience, showcasing the transformative power of community and creativity,” says Westport Library executive director Bill Harmer.
“We want everyone to feel welcome, from our youngest patrons to our longtime music supporters. The emphasis here is on fun, and setting the right tone to what promises to be an incredible weekend of events at VersoFest 2025.”
The festival closes Sunday, April 6, with a VersoFest live podcast discussion between longtime David Letterman music director Paul Shaffer and SNL Beehive Queen Christine Ohlman.
Click here for more VersoFest details, including a full schedule.
Club203 celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in style last night.
The Westport Library was filled with smoke machines — and decked out in green — at a special karaoke night.
Westport’s social group for adults with disabilities enjoyed soda breads and honey buns donated by Cob’s Bread, green bagels from Village Bagels, and cookies Baked by Belle.
As always, there was plenty of volunteer support, and MoCA CT ran an art table.
Also yesterday: a presentation to the Westport Rotary Club by Catalyst CT CEO and president Marc Donald.
The nonprofit began by combating teen substance abuse. It has since branched out into reducing gun violence, suicide prevention, and practicing restorative justice.
The organization trains police and security guards in Bridgeport and Fairfield public schools to help defuse potentially violent situations. They also partner with Park City Presents, helping familiarize Bridgeport teenagers with music production technology.
Marc Donald, at yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club. (Hat tip and photo/Dave Matlow)
The Westport/Weston Interfaith Clergy Association invites all teenage girls and boys to a packing party this Sunday (March 23, 5:30 to 7 p.m., United Methodist Church) for Dignity Grows.
The goal is to pack 200 bags of menstrual hygiene products, for distribution to local food pantries, shelters and organizations.
This will be a fun time, a great cause — and there’s pizza and snacks. RSVP your their faith community youth leader, or Heather Sinclair: hsinclair@westportumc.org.
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Yesterday’s “Roundup” item about TAP Strength’s first “lifespand and health span” wellness event — a conversation between TAP founder Dr. EJ Zebro and Jennifer Boyd — did not include the date and time. It’s March 26, 6 p.m.
A team from Rhone will offer performance-driven gear. Register by email: info@tapstrength.com.
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Just 3 days remain before Westport Pride’s annual drag show.
This year’s special guest is Patty Bourée. The 18+ event — with cocktails, songs and comedy — is Saturday (March 22, 7 p.m.) at The Knowlton, Bridgeport’s premier event space.
“Come dressed to spring eternal,” organizers say. And why not? It’s the second day of spring!
And finallly … Jesse Colin Young, co-founder of the Youngbloods and the lead singer on “Get Together,” a still-beloved paean to love and brotherhood, died Sunday in South Carolina. He was 83. Click here for a full obituary.
(Come on people, smile on your brother, everybody get together and support “06880” right now. Please click here. It’s groovy — and we thank you!)
The Department of Public Works’ annual Household Hazardous Waste Day is Saturday, April 5 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Greens Farms railroad station).
This free program enables residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich to safely dispose of household hazardous wastes.
Products like cleaners, gasoline and pesticides can pollute the environment and jeopardize public health if disposed of improperly.
Residents may dispose of these types of hazardous waste: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies and paints.
Before bringing household hazardous material to the collection site:
Make sure items are clearly labeled. Do not mix chemicals. Incompatible products may react, ignite, or explode, and mixed waste may become non-recyclable.
Keep products in original labeled container.
Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags.
Tighten lids of all containers, and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper.
Put boxes in the trunk or in the back of the vehicle away from passengers.
Keep your windows open.
Leave pets and children home.
Do not smoke or eat while handling hazardous materials.
Westport residents may recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs and electronics at the transfer station on the Sherwood Island Connector. It’s open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon.
The following items are not acceptable: ammunition, flares, and commercial hazardous waste.
Questions? Call Public Works: 203-341-1793.
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Sure, you shop at the Westport Farmers’ Market. You love the fresh fruits, vegetables, produce, meats and more, and you stock up every Thursday, at the Imperial Avenue parking lot (spring through all), and Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center (winter).
But wouldn’t it be nice to have some great recipes, to add extra creativity to all that great food?
The Farmers’ Market Recipe Program is your answer.
Directed by chef Jes Bengtson of @terraincafe, the Farmers’ Market Instagram features monthly videos by top local chefs and foodies. Each one includes information on how to source ingredients from WFM, how to prep, and how to prepare.
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker made the proclamation yesterday, at Calise’s Food Market. It was the first serving of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce Great Soup Contest.
All month long, 16 soup-making spots will compete in 7 categories. Judging will be done online, by soup-loving Westport residents.
And every voter is entered into a drawing to win a free soup, from one of the 7 winners.
The 16 competitors are Basso, Calise’s, Capuli, Gaetano’s, Garelick and Herbs, Gold’s Deli, Joe’s Pizza, Kawa Ni, Little Pub @ Dunville’s, Old Mill Grocery, Organic Market, Rive Bistro, Rizzuto’s, Romanacci, The Whelk and Tutti’s.
The 7 categories are: Best Chicken, Beef, Vegetable, Asian, Onion and Matzoh Ball Soup, and Best Chowder. Each place can enter up to 4 categories, but can win no more than 2.
Voting runs through March 31. Visit the venues, enjoy their offerings, then click here to vote.
Kicking off the Great Soup Contest (from left): town attorney Ira Bloom, Chamber of Commerce director Matthew Mandell, assistant town attorney Eileen Flug, 2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Calise’s owner Carmen Cenatiempo.
Speaking still of food: Finalmente has not served its last meal.
The Post Road East restaurant — next to Jeera Thai, across from Design Within Reach — will reopen, perhaps as early as the end of this month.
The new owners — Giuseppe Cinque, a familiar name to Fairfield County diners — will keep the old name. But he’s updating the menu, and renovating the interior.
CT Insider first reported the news. Click here for their story.
Finalmente, before it closed last May after 19 years.
The Board of Finance begins its review of 2 proposed 2025-26 budgets tomorrow (Wednesday, March 5, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium; livestream on Cablevision Channel 79, and westportct.gov).
First Selectwoman Jen Tooker will present the town budget. Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein offer the Westport Public Schools budget.
Click here to view Tooker’s proposed budget. Click here for Scarice and Goldstein’s proposed budget.
If you watched the Academy Awards on Sunday, you saw plenty of gorgeous dresses.
You may have especially admired Halle Berry, Queen Latifah and Whoopi Goldberg’s outfits.
Each was special. But all were created by Christian Siriano. The fashion designer lives in Westport, and has his own shop-by-appointment store, The Collective West, on Post Road East. (It will close soon however, and relocate to New York.)
Click below to see Whoopi Goldberg. Click here for more of Siriano’s designs, on his Instagram page.
Whoopi Goldberg, in a Christian Siriano gown.
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Speaking of the Oscars: Michael McCorry Rose interrupted rehearsals for Westport Country Playhouse’s next show — the romantic comedy “Theatre People” — to attend Sunday night’s ceremony.
He had good reason: He was a cast member of the film “Wicked.”
But the Playhouse was on his mind. Standing on the carpet, he gave a shoutout to the character he will portray beginning March 25: the narcissistic Victor Pratt, aka “Broadway’s Favorite Baritone.”
Click here for more information, and tickets to “Theatre People.” Click below for the video of Rose, at the Oscars.
Westport Pride’s annual drag show is going on the road.
This year’s special guest is Patty Bourée. The 18+ event — with cocktails, songs and comedy — is March 22 (7 p.m.) at The Knowlton, Bridgeport’s premier event space.
“Come dressed to spring eternal,” organizers say. And why not? It’s the second day of spring!
Sara Caswell headlines this week’s “Jazz at the Post” (Thursday, March 6, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7; music charge $20, $15 for veterans and students).
A classically trained string player, she has toured or recorded with Bruce Springsteen, Esperanza Spalding, Regina Carter and others, and led her own band. Caswell teaches at the Berklee College of Music, New York University and the New School.
Joining her are bassist Ike Sturm, guitarist Jesse Lewis, painist Alex Browner and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for tickets.
And finally … in honor of Westport Pride’s upcoming drag show (story above):
(Where else but “06880” can you learn about hazardous waste, the Oscars and a drag show, all at once? If you enjoy our daily Roundups, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
Posted onFebruary 2, 2025|Comments Off on Roundup: Crossword Contest, Comedy, Drag Show …
Over 200 competitors vied yesterday, at the 26th annual Westport Library Crossword Puzzle Contest.
A first time winner out-puzzled them all.
Quiara Vasquez finished a Friday-level New York Times puzzle in just 6 minutes and 16 seconds — about the time it takes a normal solver to fill in just a few answers.
Quiara Vasquez (right), with runner-up Claire Rimkus (center) and third-place finisher Ken Stern.
As always the Trefz Forum was filled with regulars, first-timers, and those cruciverbalist superstars who make the rest of us feel like we should have stopped playing games at Word Search.
The crowd skewed older, and came from 6 states. The furthest competitors — for the second year in a row — were from Georgia.
Times puzzle editor Will Shortz was once again on hand, and led several NPR-style games before the final round.
He was greeted with a well-deserved standing ovation. Besides coming every year — the only event he attends, besides the national tournament — he is recovering from a stroke.
He was stricken exactly a year ago — the day after he was in Westport for the 2024 Crossword Puzzle Tournament. Shortz described that event, and his rehabilitation over the past year.
Will Shortz (Photos/Dan Woog)
In addition to Vasquez, certificates were handed out to over 50 competitors who completed all 3 puzzles correctly.
Plus the 2 with the best handwriting (one pencil, one pen).
Westport Country Playhouse’s “Season of Laughter” continues this month.
“Native Gardens” — a comedy about well-intentioned neighbors who become feuding enemies — debuts playing February 18.
Expectant parents Tania and Pablo Del Valle move next door to longtime suburbanites Virginia and Frank Butley. A dispute over the property line spirals into a war over taste, class, personal identity — and gardening.
Looking for a fun and different Valentine’s Day celebration, a few days early?
How about a drag show this Saturday, with Boston’s own Patty Bourrée?
Westport Pride is hosting the February 8 event (7 p.m., MoCA CT; 18+ only). It features songs, comedy and cocktails. All genders and orientations welcome!
Click here for tickets ($40), and more information.
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Oscar Edelman is having a great season for the Wesleyan University basketball team.
The 6-8, 225-pound freshman — a Westport resident and former Greens Farms Academy player, who won a gold medal at the Maccabi Games 2 years ago — has helped the Cardinals to a 20-0 record. They are the only unbeaten men’s team in all of Division III.
Oscar Edelman
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Westport Sunrise Rotary’s speaker most recent speaker was Edward Spilka.
The Wheel it Forward USA board member described his organization’s not-for-profit library. People donate or borrow free medical equipment and assistive technology like wheelchairs, hospital beds, toilet risers, walkers and knee scooters.
Warehouses in Stamford and Bridgeport serve 600 people every month. Donations kept over 100,000 pounds of equipment out of landfills, and saved users more than $1 million in 2024 alone.
Edward Spilka, at the Westport Sunrise Rotary meeting.
Sorelle Gallery welcomes Carol Young next Saturday (February, 2 to 4 p.m.), for a meet-and-greet at their Church Lane gallery.
The Connecticut artist specializes in acrylic and oil landscapes. Click here for more information.
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Jeff Mitchell sends today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature. He writes:
“On a walk at Sherwood Island State Park Saturday morning, I encountered 4 different migrating birds.
“Those in the upper left are ring-billed gulls (note the black tail feathers with white dots). Under that is a rather large juvenile herring gull.
“In the upper right are 2 Brandt geese. Under them is one of a huge flock of long- tailed ducks floating too far from shore to get a good picture of on my phone.
“Below that is a stock picture of the same duck, for reference. They would dive under the water for up to a minute.
“I walk at Sherwood Island quite often. These are all rarities, which is why I’m passing them along.”
And finally … Barry Goldberg, a keyboardist who was part of Bob Dylan’s famous electric set at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965, died last month in Los Angeles. He was 83, and suffered from lymphoma.
He played at Monterey Pop with his band the Electric Flag; on Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels’“Devil With a Blue Dress On/Good Golly Miss Molly”; albums by the Byrds, Leonard Cohen, Rod Stewart and the Ramones — and preceded Mark Naftalin (now a Westport resident) in the Paul Butterfield Blues Band.
(If you don’t know what’s going on in Westport, you’re not reading “06880.” We rely on reader support to help us help you. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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In 1999 Larry Silver was in China, a guest of that country’s Foreign Affairs office.
The photographer — and Westport resident — was invited to Yangzhou, to shoot images similar to the style he had become internationally famous for.
(Photo copyright Larry Silver)
On Thursday (January 9, 6 to 8 p.m.), it will be featured at the opening reception for MoCA CT’s “On Fire: Energy, Climate, Infrastructure” exhibition.
The show — with over 50 artworks in a variety of media — explores how artists from the 1930s to today have envisioned and responded to the interrelationship of energy, infrastructure, and the environment.
The fourth annual exhibition by the Westport Public Art Collections at MoCA allows the community to experience works of art, usually on display in school and municipal buildings, in a museum setting. Click here for more information.
A memorial service for Carole Schweid — the actor, playwright, author, and a Westport icon as co-founder and artistic director of the “Play With Your Food” lunchtime play-reading program, who died last month — is set for Sunday, January 19 (12 noon, TCS The Community Synagogue of Westport).
Carole’s many friends, fans and admirers are all welcome.
Carole Schweid
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The Westport Farmers’ Market returns to its regular post-holiday, regular Thursday winter schedule this week (January 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gilbertie’s Herbs & Garden Center).
Over 30 vendors will fill the greenhouses. The WFM winter market also includes the “Get Growing” program, and educational programming.
New to Westport? Been here a while — or even longer?
Neighbors and Newcomers of Westport has something for you.
Actually, many things.
New Year Coffee:(Wednesday, January 8, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Mrs. London’s Bakery): Fresh brew and lively conversation.
Sound Bath Experience: (January 16, 10 to 10:45 a.m., Hummingbird Healing Center): A soothing 45-minute experience, with harmonious vibrations guiding you to tranquility and renewal.
Game Night: January 17, 6:30 p.m., private home, $10): Pizza, games, BYOB and appetizer to share; laughter, connection and friendly rivalries.
Book Club: (January 23): Join with other book groups in an evening discussion of the Westport Library’s WestportREADS selection, “In the Distance.” For details, email Peggy O’Halloran: pohal@aol.com.
For more information about Neighbors and Newcomers of Westport, including how to become a member, click here.
Looking for a fun and different Valentine’s Day celebration, a few days early?
How about a drag show, with Boston’s own, Patty Bourrée?
Westport Pride is hosting the February 8 event (7 p.m., MoCA CT; 18+ only). It features songs, comedy and cocktails. All genders and orientations welcome!
Click here for tickets ($40), and more information.
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I would have bet anything that the driver of this ridiculous-looking Cybertruck — parked in a handicap spot at the Westport Weston Family YMCA yesterday — did not have a handicap sticker.
Not surprisingly, I would have won that bet.
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Grammy nominated pianist James Weidman headlines this week’s first-of-the-year Jazz at the Post (Thursday, January 9; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner service at 7).
He’ll be joined by bassist Harvie S, drummer Steve Johns and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.
Click here for tickets ($20 music cover; $15 for veterans and students).
And finally … in honor of one of Westport’s underrated, unsung but undeniably excellent civic organizations (Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport; story above):
(Whether you’re new to our neighborhood, lived here all your life — or any time frame in between — you’re part of our online “06880” community. To support our work, please click here. Thank you!)
“Caroling Crawl” — a Saugatuck tradition — continues this Saturday (December 21, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.).
Staples High School’s elite a cappella group the Orphenians will entertain diners at several restaurants, in the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event.
They’ll start at the Saugatuck Rowing Club’s Boathouse, then make their rounds at other restaurants around Riverside Avenue, Railroad Place and the rest of the neighborhood, ending at the Little Pub at Dunville’s.
Add that to the list of specials on Saturday’s menu!
Staples Orphenians’ Caroling Crawl.
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Speaking of Christmas in Saugatuck: Startup Westport — the public/private partnershp for tech entrepreneurs and innovators — chose a perfect location for their holiday party.
Nearly 150 people gathered at Content Studio — Chirag Shah and Jay Norris’ Saugatuck Avenue production studio/meeting/media location — to celebrate the season.
Startup Westport events are always high-energy, with plenty of creative men and women sharing ideas and networking.
Throw in food, drinks, and a DJ, and it was one of the organization’s best events in their very busy 2 years.
Some of the many attendees enjoying yesterday’s Startup Westport holidy party, at Content Studio.
Startup Westport co-founder Jay Norris and his wife Crystal. They celebrated both the party, and her birthday.
A memorial service for Dick Fincher — the Tree Board chair, Earthplace and Staples Tuition Grants board member, and church vestryman, who died October 31 at 86 — will be held Saturday, December 28, at 11;30 a.m. at Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.
A reception will follow. The public is invited to attend.
Dick Fincher
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16 teams of Staples High School students and Westport Police officers hurled balls at each other Monday, in the annual Westport Youth Commission dodgeball tournament.
The event — held in the Staples fieldhouse — has 2 important rules. Each team must include 1 cop. And no aiming at heads.
Otherwise, is a night for ducking, diving, and of course dodging.
Staples’ Teen Awareness Group co-sponsored the tourney. Entry fees help fund their projects.
The Dodge-a-Cop champs! From left: James Penny, Anthony Armentano, Charles Clark, Casey Bag, Nicholas Weil, Officer Mike Davis. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
Margery Fisher — a longtime Coleytown Middle School librarian, children’s book author and the wife of noted illustrated Leonard Everett Fisher — died peacefully at home on Friday. She was 94.
After majoring in mathematics and earning Phi Beta Kappa honors at Mount Holyoke College, Margery was recruited by IBM to teach at their school in New York City.
She soon became a system service representative, one of the very few women in the IBM business machine program and pioneering computer path.
While at IBM she met and married her husband of 71 years. She and Leonard moved to New Haven. IBM transferred Margery to its office there. For the next several years she serviced IBM’s growing business machine products, from industrial computers installed in hardware stores and grocery stores to the United States Navy’s first atomic submarine, the USS Nautilus.
Margery left IBM prior to the birth of their children. After moving to Westport she earned a master’s degree in library science at Southern Connecticut State University.
She served as Coleytown Middle School’s librarian for 25 years, retiring in 1995.
Margery was the author of 2 children’s books, for which her husband provided the illustrations: “But Not Our Daddy” and “One and One.”
Margery continued her interest in children’s literature after retiring. She joined the Bank Street College Book Committee, creating, editing and publishing world-wide yearly lists of the best in North American children’s literature.
Margery and Leonard lived in Westport for more than 68 years. They traveled the world together from England (33 times) to the Panama Canal, Italy, Russia, Egypt, China, Hawaii, Normandy and Maine.
Margery is survived by her children Julie Fisher (Robert Aldoroty), Susan Fisher Plotner, and James Fisher (Pamela Viglielmo); grandchildren Lauren, Michael, Samuel, Jordan, Gregory and Danielle, and her sister Betty Meskin Pincus.
Donations in Margery and Leonard’s name can be made to the “Margery & Leonard Everett Fisher Endowment for Children’s Books in the Arts,” c/o Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport, CT 06880.
Margery Fisher
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Longtime Westport arts community member and philanthropist Gary Cosgrave died peacefully on Monday. He was 82.
A graduate of Mamaroneck (New York) High School, Gary did not go to college because he suffered from undiagnosed dyslexia. Nevertheless, he achieved remarkable business success.
After the passing of his father, Paul, Gary took over the family business, PROGroup, and as chair and CEO turned it into a conglomerate of 5 businesses: Pro Hardware. Garden Master and Farm Mart, as well an advertising agency and distribution business.
For over 25 years Gary was an active member of Vistage, a worldwide business advisor group. After selling his business in 2011, Gary continued to mentor business executives and entrepreneurs, and was on the board of Soluxe Inc., parent company of Solomon Community Solar LLC.
Gary served for many years on the boards of the Westport Country Playhouse and MoCA CT. In 2012 he was honored by the Westport Art Center for his success as chair in stabilizing the group’s finances and developing a new strategic vision.
He was a major donor to the Southport School, an independent day school for cerebrodiverse children dealing with challenges like dyslexia, and to Seeds for Peace and Operation Smile.
An accomplished sailor and scuba diver, Gary threw himself into underwater photography. He built an impressive portfolio of stunning images that he published as books, sold and displayed widely. He co-authored a book, “Stop, Think and Dream: Be the Difference That Makes a Difference (Teens for Planet Earth),” empowering New York City teenagers.
Gary survived by his fiancé Dina Upton of Westport; son Terry Cosgrave of Colorado Springs, and grandchildren Michaela Patry, Lily Cosgrave, Isabell and Ella Rosenberg. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruby, daughter Tracey, and brothers Jack and Victor.
Gary’s ashes will be interred at his family plot at Lakeview Cemetery in New Canaan on February 8 (10:30 a.m.), followed by a celebration of his life at Rive Bistro (11:30 a.m.).
Claudia Sherwood Servidio — one of our very talented “Westport … Naturally” contributors — finds beauty everywhere.
She shot this image yesterday, at rainy Sherwood Island State Park:
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And finally … Robert Moses — the urban planner responsible for the construction of hundreds of highways, bridges, tunnels, playgrounds, beaches — and a World’s Fair — in and around New York, sometimes for better and sometimes for worse, was born on this day in 1888. He died in 1981.
(Holy Moses! If you appreciate “06880”‘s daily coverage of all things Westport, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
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