Tag Archives: Westport River Gallery

Roundup: Lifeguards, Main Street, Levitt …

Posted on August 20, 2026 | 1 comment

Effective today (Thursday), there are no lifeguards on duty at Burying Hill Beach. The beach remains open, with swimming at your own risk. Beach emblems are required at Burying Hill through Labor Day (September 7).

Compo Beach lifeguards continue their regular schedule through September 7. Beach Emblems are required at Compo through September 30.

Burying Hill Beach (Photo/Drew Coyne)

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For over 25 years, “Holiday Time, Main Street, Westport CT” — a festive Main Street. by internationally known folk artist Kathy Jakobsen — has been a favorite of Westporters. Many business names are clear (though most are long gone).

Now Westport River Gallery is offering a few signed and numbered unframed 23×17 serigraphs. The prints were originally $450. These are just $25.

Jakobsen’s works are part of the permanent collections of the American Folk Art Museum in New York and the Smithsonian in Washington. She is a former Weston resident.

Email westportrivergallery@gmail.com, or call 203-226-6934.

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Longtime Levitt Pavilion favorite Frank Mastrone returns to the Levitt Pavilion stage this Saturday (7:30 p.m.).

The Broadway artist’s repertoire — show tunes and American Songbook classics, with a few pop and classical selections thrown in — appeals to a broad crowd.

The Levitt says he’ll be joined by “friends.” We’re not sure who they all are, but we do know 2: Dodie Pettit and Rex Fowler.

After singing and dancing in “Cats,” Dodie performed in “Phantom of the Opera” —  on Broadway, and the national tour. That’s where she met Mastrone.

Fowler — co-founder of Aztec Two-Step — and Pettit are now married. They perform as Aztec Two-Step 2.0.

It should be a great show. And tickets are … free! Click here for more information.

Frank Mastrone

Also on the Levitt calendar:

  • Today (Thursday): Barboletta, Tribute to Santana (7:30 p.m., free)
  • Friday, August 20: The Machine Performs Pink Floyd (7 p.m.; tickets)
  • Sunday, August 22: Andy Frasco & the UN, and Kitchen Dwellers with special guests Magoo (5 p.m.; tickets).

Click here for more information, and tickets. 

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Earthplace welcomes fall with 2 of its favorite events.

The Fall Festival (October 3) and Woodside Bash (October 17) are great ways for friends and newcomers to gather and celebrate nature, while supporting environmental education, conservation, wildlife care and scientific research.

The Fall Festival includes the reopening of Earthplace’s renovated Birds of Prey Exhibit, with new and expanded habitats for raptors, and a more engaging and accessible experience for visitors. .

As always, there are live animal encounters, hayrides, pumpkin-themed activities, food trucks and games, Fpr Fall Festival tickets and sponsorship opportunities, click here. 

The Woodside Bash, meanwhile, transform Earthplace into an adult celebration with live music, a seasonal dinner menu, cocktails, entertainment, and opportunities to support Earthplace’s mission. For Woodside Bash tickets and sponsorship opportunities, click here.

Earthplace serves thousands of children, families, students and visitors each year through its nature center, animal ambassadors, nature-based preschool, Harbor Watch water quality program, summer camps, community programs, and 62-acre wildlife sanctuary.

Hanging out at the Woodside Bash.

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Westporters are great supporters of Mercy Learning Center.

They serve on its board, volunteer at and donate to the Bridgeport non-profit, which impacts countless women’s lives — and those of their families — through education and support services.

So it’s no surprise that MLC’s annual benefit (September 27, 5 p.m., Shorehaven Country Club) has a strong Westport flavor.

The event honors Allison and Tony Allott. Former Westporters and Staples parents, they introduced their Green’s Farms Church congregation to the non-profit. Congregants (including the Allotts) volunteer with MLC on Service Sunday.

Allison has been an ESL and citizenship tutor since 2014. She is also a board and event committee member.

The Mercy Learning Center board chair is Tammy Barry. The event committee includes local residents Gina Beranek, Sara Connolly and Theanne Feldman.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Rach’s Hope — the non-profit honoring the memory of 2015 Staples High School graduate Rachel Doran, which provides nutritious food, lodging, transportation and encouragement to family members when a child is in intensive care — is as active as Rachel herself was.

On Sunday, October 4 (3 p.m., Compo Beach), everyone is invited to join the 5th annual “Walk the Extra Mile … For Rach’s Hope” event.

It’s a fun, community-wide beach walk, with live music, a gourmet pizza truck, wine and beer, dessert and special Rach’s Hope swag.

Click here to buy adult and student tickets.

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The contributions, struggles and sacrifices made by Native Americans during the Revolutionary War are often overlooked.

On October 4 (2 to 4 p.m.), Pocomoke Indian Nation member Drew Shuptar-Rayvis brings his outdoor demonstration station — including artifacts, reproduction pieces and traditional clothing — to the Weston History & Culture Center. He’ll answer questions too, about Native American life.

The free event is is part of the History Center’s “America 250: The Revolutionary Spirit Lecture Series.” For more information, click here.

Meanwhile the Weston History & Culture Center will be open for exhibits, guided tours, children’s activities and more on 3 Sundays this fall: September 27, October 4 and October 25 (1 to 4 p.m.).

Attractions include the interactive “Weston at Work,” the 1940s-era Coley House, and stories from the American Revolution. Click here for details.

Drew Shuptar-Rayvis

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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between August 12 and 18.

A 49-year-old Stamford man was charged with breach of peace, following an investigation into a July incident in which a cyclist became irate about an automobile driver’s driving. The cyclist yelled, used profanity, made obscene gestures and spat on the vehicle. Video did not support his claim that he had been unsafely passed. He was released on a $1,000 bond.

A 31-year-old Oxford, Ohio man was charged with stalking and violation of a restraining order. He allegedly traveled from Seattle to Connecticut after learning from social media that the business he was arrested at was affiliated with a relative of the victim. He was held on a $250,000 bond.

A 45-year-old Holyoke, Massachusetts man was charged with failue to appear, stemming from a previous arrest for felony charges. He was held on a $10,000 bond.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3 citations
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
  • Improper use of markers: 3
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 2
  • Failure to register a commercial motor vehicle: 2
  • Violation of town ordinance (dogs): 2
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 2
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 2
  • Speeding: 1
  • Illegal operation by a motor carrier: 1
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1

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With exactly 14 weeks left before Thanksgiving, John Karrel’s Muddy Brook photo is perfectly appropriate for today’s “Westport … Naturally” image:

(Photo/John Karrel)

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And finally … in honor of Mercy Learning Center’s upcoming benefit (story above):

(If you learn about upcoming events on “06880” — or anything else — we hope you’ll click here to support our work. We rely on support from readers like you. Thanks for showing us a little love!) 

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Downtown, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Police

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Roundup: Senator Blumenthal, Safe Boating, Sycamore Trees …

Posted on July 27, 2025 | 8 comments

Every Saturday morning at 11, a group gathers on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge, to protest President Trump’s actions and policies.

Sometimes the crowd is large. Other times, there are just a few.

Yesterday, they were joined by Richard Blumenthal. Connecticut’s senior senator did not make a formal address. But he spoke individually with all the attendees.

Senator Richard Blumenthal, on the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge.

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The intersection “improvement” at Post Road East and Bulkley Avenue seems anything but.

A nearby resident — who has waited often at that traffic light, at Bulkely North — says the green cycle is way too short.

Only 3 cars can get through at a time. The result: Many frustrated drivers run the red, resulting in more danger than previously.

Part of the frequent backup, on Bulkley Avenue North.

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Safe boating is for everyone.

And a certificate is needed to operate a motorboat or personal watercraft on Connecticut waters.

A state Safe Boating Certificate course is set for August 18 and 20 (4:30 to 8:30 p.m.), at VFW Post 399.

Instructor Barry Natale — a retired US Coast Guard chief boatswain mate — has plenty of search and rescue experience on Long Island Sound, and beyond.

The cost is $25. Email barry@soundnavigation.com, or call 203-219-3688, to register.

Peaceful — but you need a certificate. (Photo/copyright DinkinESH Fotografix)

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Speaking of the water: Results are in from last Sunday’s 46th annual Point to Point swim.

The mile-long open water Compo Beach race supports the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s aquatics program.

Maegan Grisanti (age 16) earned first place in the Female Division, with an impressive time of 18:01. She was followed by Katharine Radvile (42, 22:57) and Diane Benke (52, 23:09).

In the Male Division, Gregory Pinchbeck (16) took first place in 18:23, ahead of by Joseph Benz (35, 18:58) and Luke McGuinn (14, 19:08). Click here for full results.

MyTeam Triumph — the non-profit that helps people with special needs compete in events like this — supported 5 swimmers.

MyTeam Triumph volunteers, with Point to Point swimmers.

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Earthplace welcomes August with a full calendar nature walks, animal encounters, canoeing, crafting and more. Among the highlights:

Butterfly Walk (August 2, 10:30 a.m.): Education, with experts.

Winged Wonders: Meet Duchess (August 3, 1 p.m.): A bird-in-glove demonstration to learn about raptors.

Nature Theater: Vernal Pool Party (August 3, 1 p.m.): A 30-minute play for kids, followed by a stroll through the sanctuary.

Pick Your Own Bouquet (August 7, 3 p.m.; August 24, 11 a.m.): Cut your own flowers from the Earthplace garden.

Canoe Paddles (August 9 and 24, 1 3 p.m.). Led by the Connecticut Foraging Club.

Adventure Club (August 11-16; Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, overnight): Teenage camp, featuring backpacking, orienteering and wilderness skills.

Craft & Sip (August 7, 6 p.m.): Craft a mosaic using cement and glass beads; BYOB.

Click here for more information, and registration.

Earthplace raptor.

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Speaking of the environment, Marisa Zer writes: “Spotted lanternfly babies are everywhere. But we have a weapon to fight them!

“A rechargeable handheld vacuum is less than $25 on Amazon. You just suck them up, dump them all in a bag and step it.

“It’s fun to see how many you can catch. Addictive even. Imagine if we all had this weapon, what kind of dent we could put in the population.

“At least until they are too big to suck up.”

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Speaking still of the environment, Scott Smith writes:

It’s shedding season for our local sycamore trees, Platanus occidentalis — the largest native hardwood in the Eastern US.

I have 2 big ones in my Westport yard, and the bark is raining down upon the ground in large sheaves. Must be the heat.

Sycamore shedding. (Photo/Scott Smith)

This habit of shedding bark like skin after a bad sunburn makes the trees especially well suited to urban life, explains Jonathan Drori, author of “Around the World in 80 Trees.”

“Its bark is brittle and, because it cannot adapt to the growth of the trunk and branches underneath, it drops it off in flakes. The bark is dotted with tiny pores, a millimeter or two across, called lenticels, which allow the exchange of gases.”

The tree’s ability to slough off a layer of soot and grime that it has removed from the atmosphere helps it thrive in polluted air — and keeps us living in its shade that much healthier. Trees are gloriously messy things!

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W. Reuter — a self-taught marquetry artist specializing in original all-natural, often multi-media wood veneer picture displays — will be at the Westport River Gallery August 3 (1 p.m.).

The public is invited to meet him, and learn about his art. Each work takes several months to create.

One of Reuter’s works.

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Fan favorites the Flying Fingers Jug Band returns week for a third appearance, at First Folk Sunday.

The quintet is set for the Saugatuck Rowing Club on August 3 (12:30 p.m.). Click here for tickets and more information, or call 203-984-7562.

Flying Fingers Jug Band

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Like kids at many camps, youngsters at Birchwood Country Club’s summer session play golf an tennis, and swim.

But they also learn to bake cookies from scratch, with chef Luke DiPippo.

And then — let’s hope — they eat them too.

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Everyone — and everything — is welcome at the Levitt Pavilion.

Including this guy. He enjoyed a recent free concert, from his perch near the stage.

And posed for today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … speaking about the VFW’s safe boating course (item above):

(Another day, another Roundup filled with news you can use, and random stuff you’d never have thought of. If you enjoy this daily “06880” feature, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Politics, YMCA

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Roundup: Downtown Survey (Again), Ice Cream Downtown (New) …

Posted on November 23, 2024 | 10 comments

The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee has released the results of its most recent study.

What do 1,955 respondents, plus attendees at focus groups and a townwide charette say>

Surprise!*

Most want Jesup Green to be untouched, for parking or any other use. Some people would even like the open space expanded, toward the river.

The Imperial Avenue parking lot, while used for the Westport Farmers’ Market, Westport Woman’s Club, Levitt Pavilion and Westport Library, is not utilized for downtown shopping and dining.

Presented with 3 sites for a downtown parking deck, nearly 50% favored the Baldwin lot on Elm Street.

For details on those results, and other questions like parking limits, click here.

*Not really.

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Speaking of downtown: With Japanese, Israeli and French cuisine — plus Spotted Horse, Emmy Squared and Mrs. London’s — Church Lane is already a food mecca.

Soon, there will be an ice cream place too.

Van Leeuwen will open in the space previously home to Franny’s Farmacy.

It’s the 4th location in Connecticut for the chain, which features ice cream (including vegan), chocolate chip cookies, cookie sandwiches, sundaes and milkshakes.

The other sites are New Canaan, Darien and Greenwich.

Van Leeuwen also operates shops in Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Washington, Colorado, Texas and California.

(Photo/Sal Liccione)

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Westport River Gallery is filled with fine American, European and Asian art.

There are many different price points.

Nothing there sells for $6.2 million, however. To pay that amount for art, you need to go to Sotheyby’s, and be a Hong Kong crypto entrepreneur willing to pony up for a duct-taped banana.

But wait!

What was that, duct-taped yesterday to a utility pole, outside the Riverside Avenue gallery?

Looks like anyone could have had it for free.

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The Representative Town Meeting Environment and Health & Human Services Committees meet together on Monday (November 25, 7:30 p.m., Zoom).

They’ll continue their discussion about “concerns related to a potential artificial turf field being added to Long Lots School property, during the new school construction.”

The athletic fields at Long Lots Elementary School are now all grass. 

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Speaking of the environment: Next year marks the 95th anniversary of the Greens Farms Garden Club.

Members got a jump on the celebration Tuesday. The warm, sunny morning was perfect for palnting daffodils, at Machamux Park on Greens Farms Road.

The name comes from the Mohawk and Wallup Native Americans who settled in the area. They called the area overlooking Long Island Sound “Machaux” (“the beautiful land”).

In the mid-1600’s, colonists arrived. The 5 “Bankside Farmers” bought land along the shore from the Wallups.

It named Greens Farms in honor of John Green, one of the Bankside Farmers. A large memorial rock in the park will be surrounded by daffodils and grape hyacinths next spring — the Greens Farms Garden Club’s contribution to this “beautiful land.”

Second Selectwoman Andrea Moore and Westport parks superintendent Michael West helped prepare the garden bed for the volunteers.

In a few months, we’ll all enjoy their work.

Greens Farms Garden Club members, at Machamux Park.

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Och and oy!

That was the title of last night’s sold-out Westport Country Playhouse show.

Actor Alan Cumming (“Cabaret,” “The Good Wife”) and American journalist and singer Ari Shapiro (NPR’s “All Things Considered,” Pink Martini) joined forces for an evening of entertainment. 

The event’s title paid homage to Cumming’s Scottish and Shapiro’s Jewish roots. It was a night of thought-provoking conversations, slightly bawdy musical numbers and personal storytelling.

Alan Cumming and Ari Shapiro: Och and oy! (Photo/Susan Garment)

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Duck!

It’s today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … Vic Flick, the delightfully named guitarist whose “driving riff in the theme for the James Bond movies captured the spy’s suave confidence and tacit danger,” says the New York Times, died November 14 in Los Angeles. He was 87. and suffered from Alzheimer’s.

Click here for a full obituary.

(New businesses, art, gardening, sports, schools — it’s all here, just like it is every day, in our “06880” Roundup. If you rely us on for news you can use, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Entertainment, Environment, Local business, Local politics, Sports, Westport Country Playhouse

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Friday Flashback #425

Posted on November 15, 2024 | 7 comments

The Westport River Gallery — on the left side, where Post Road West turns into Riverside Avenue — overflows with interesting art, from an array of international artists.

But a work by a Connecticut artist — with a very Westport theme — stands out among the scores of landscapes and scenes from around the world.

“Westport USA” is a multi-media 36×36 creation of Connecticut pop artist Franki Vinci.

It’s an explosion of Westport residents, present and formers (and a few folks, real and imagined, with ties to this place).

“Westport USA” (Frankie Vinci) — click on or hover over to enlarge.

There are the usual suspects: Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, Martha Stewart, Rodney Dangerfield, F. Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald, Patty Hearst, Bette Davis, Michael Bolton.

(Plus, of course, Keith Richards. He lives in Weston. But, as anyone who has seen him around town knows, he’s really one of us.)

There’s “I Love Lucy” and “Bewitched” (both TV series were “set” in Westport, at least for a while). Superman (drawn by longtime resident Curt Swan). Norman Rockwell, who helped found the Famous Artists School (located a few yards from the gallery, on Wilton Road).

And George Washington, who famously slept here (and complained about his accommodations).

How many of the nearly 50 references do you recognize in “Westport USA”? How many surprise you with their Westport connection?

Click “Comments” below, to share your reactions and remembrances to this remarkable piece of art.

(Friday Flashback is one of “06880”‘s many regular features. If you enjoy this — or anything else on our website — please consider a tax-deductible contribution. Just click here. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Friday Flashback

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Roundup: Doors’ Densmore, Sales Stats, Playground Plans …

Posted on April 7, 2024 | 3 comments

Standing room only crowds got up-close (and very personal) insights into the music world of the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s yesterday, at the Westport Library.

The 4th day of Verso Fest featured conversations with record producer Tony Visconti, and Doors drummer John Densmore.

Chatting with WFUV’s Paul Cavalconte, Visconti offered behind-the-scenes insights into his Grammy Award-winning work with David Bowie, Marc Bolan, Paul McCartney and many more.

Tony Visconti (left) and Paul Cavalconte, on the Library stage.

Topics of Densmore’s conversation with CNN’s Alisyn Camarota included “Light My Fire,” Jim Morrison’s brilliance and self-destructiveness, and the rift among the surviving members over licensing music rights to advertisers (the drummer was opposed).

He also noted how difficult it was to explain “The End” to his parents.

Densmore — who accompanied himself on an African drum and other percussion instruments — spoke fondly of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band, and gave a shout-out to the ’60s.

John Densmore and Alisyn Camerota.

The decade, he said, “planted the seeds for so much good, like civil rights and women’s rights. But seeds can take 100 years to grow. Stop dissing the ’60s — and get out your watering can.”

Among other events yesterday: an all-day record fair.

“Record riot” sales at VersoFest. (All photos/Dan Woog)

Vinyl and CD sales continue today — the finale of VersoFest ’24.

On the schedule:

  • Connecticut, WPLR, and the Birth of Buckingham/Nicks Era Fleetwood Mac (11 a.m.)
  • Mind Your Business: Legal Workshop with Marcus Thomas (Sunday, April 7, 11 a.m.)
  • Video Game Composing with Tom Salta (Sunday, April 7, 12:30 p.m.)
  • Glam to Punk — A Fashion Roundtable: Alice Cooper, Bowie, Blondie and Beyond, with Cindy Dunaway and Tish & Snooky (Manic Panic); special guest Dennis Dunaway, moderated by Christine Ohlman (1 p.m.)
  • Unlock the Secrets of Radio Airplay for Emerging Artists with Peter Gray (Sunday, April 7, 2 p.m.)
  • 51 Years of “Wild Style,” the 1st Hip Hop Motion Picture (3 p.m.)
  • Exhibit: Thinking Inside the Box, multi-media art installation (all day)
  • Diamond Dogs at 50, David Bowie Exhibit by Paul Brenton with designer Mark Ravitz (all day)

Click here for details.

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The first quarter of 2024 is in the real estate books.

As shared by our friends at KMS Team at Compass, the number of Westport sales (46) is down 13%, compared to the same quarter in 2023.

However, the total volume of single family home sales — $113,835,000 — is down only 1% over the first quarter last year.

The median sales price, meanwhile — $1,850,00 is up 14% year over year. 

Inventory remains scarce, contributing to the reduced number of sales.

Homes for sale over $3 million have been on the market considerably longer (52 days) than those in the $1.4 to $2 million range (18 days).

Right now, 35 homes for sale are listed for $3 million or more. Eight homes are in the $2 to $2.99 million range; 8 are between $1,4 and $1.99 million. Just 4 are listed for under $1.4 million.

The lowest priced home for sale is at 18 Roseville Road ($660,000). The most expensive home is 50 Compo Mill Cove. The asking price $13,500,000.

18 Roseville Road

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The Compo Beach Playground Renovation Committee presents their proposed plan to the Parks & Recreation Commission this Thursday (April 11, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).

The meeting will be livestreamed on www.westportct.gov, and broadcast on Optimum Channel 79.  

Click on or hover over the image below, to see the latest plan.

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Westporter Randy Herbertson sits on the advisory board for Voces8 Foundation, a UK-based global chamber music organization. Their 2 ensembles, Voces8 and Apollo5, had over 50 million views on YouTube alonelast year.

Their US-based all-women’s group, Lyyra, is currently touring.

Voces 8’s mission is to use music to support STEAM learning, to students worldwide. They’ve set up “music hubs” in select American cities. They visit several times a year for workshops with students, culminating in performances with the students and ensemble. They always include underserved schools, and those with well-developed programs.

The goal is to establish a music hub in Fairfield County, based at the Westport Library. Donors will underwrite it.

Herbertson is helping plan a program with Staples, Greenwich and Wilton High Schools.

With a combined choir of over 80 young singers, Voces8 and Lyyra did an initial workshop last month at the Library.

Next up: a full performance (April 23, 7 p.m., Trefz Forum). Click here for tickets.

Herbertson is hosting a reception at his 56 Church Lane studio on Saturday, April 20 (5:30 p.m.). Anyone interested in attending to meet founder Paul Smith and Lyyra should email randy@thevisualbrand.com.

The next day (April 21, 5 p.m.) Lyyra performs at Christ & Holy Trinity Church. Click here for tickets.

Voces8 workshop at the Westport Library.

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We’re not sure of the connection between tomorrow’s eclipse, and the importance of buying art.

But this intriguing sign can be seen outside Westport River Gallery, on Riverside Avenue at Post Road West:

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Ellen Wentworth snapped today’s “Westport … Naturally” shot in her Highland Road yard.

In the words of the old song, he was only passin’ through.

(Photo/Ellen Wentworth)

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And finally … John Densmore’s conversation yesterday at VersoFest ranged from the monster success of “Light My Fire” …

… and the jazz influences of “Touch Me” …

… to the awkward moment when he had to explain “The End” to his parents.

Densmore also said he really liked José Feliciano’s completely different version of “Light My Fire” — probably without knowing that the international superstar lives just a couple of miles away, in Weston.

(Want to light “06880”‘s fire? Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Children, Library, Local business, Local politics, Real estate

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Roundup: Voters’ Guide, Tech Talk, PBS NewsHour …

Posted on September 15, 2023 | 5 comments

Westport’s League of Women Voters will once again provide a digital-only “Candidates’ Guide” to November’s election.

They have begun seeking responses about local issues. It is expected to be ready in mid-October.

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Tech talk, investment opportunities, entrepreneurial ideas and networking were all important parts of last night’s second Startup Westport meeting, at the Westport Library.

Dan O’Keefe — Connecticut’s chief innovation officer — discussed his work, and the opportunities available in the state. He was a late replacement for Dan Bikel, the Westporter and a key member of the AI community at Meta, who was diagnosed with COVID this week.

Click here for more information about Startup Westport, whose mission is to make Westport an innovation hub.

From left: Police Chief Foti Koskinas, Cliff Sirlin, Jay Norris, Connecticut chief innovation officer Dan O’Keefe, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Stefano Pacifico, Peter Propp. All except O’Keefe are Startup Westport team leaders.

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Last night’s “PBS NewsHour” featured an in-depth look at the problems facing regional theaters around the US.

After beginning with Long Wharf — which has abandoned its home for several pop-up venues — the story pivoted “less than an hour south,” to the Westport Country Playhouse.

Incoming artistic director Mark Shanahan discussed the struggles facing regional theaters, while acting managing director Beth Huisking spoke about the future.

Shanahan added: “The theater is all about problems and problem-solving. It always is. What play are we going to do? Who’s going to be in it? Who’s going to light it? Who’s going to do the set? How are we going to tell people it’s out there? Who’s going to pay for it? What time of year are we doing it?

“How are we going to make any of this happen? Why are we ever surprised that there are problems? We just have a new set of problems, and sometimes a growing set of problems, and we have to figure out how to solve them.”

Click here to view the entire segment. (Hat tips: Dick Lowenstein and Dennis Jackson).

Screenshot of Beth Huisking and Mark Shanahan last night.

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The Public Works Department’s fall paving program begins Monday (September 18). It runs through the end of October.

The following roads will be paved, though not in this order:

  • Hiawatha Lane
  • Ferry Lane West
  • Indian Hill Road
  • West End Avenue
  • Davenport Avenue
  • Beachside Avenue
  • Prospect Road
  • Lamplight Lane
  • Iris Lane
  • Blue Ribbon Drive
  • Hazelnut Road
  • Northfield Drive
  • Riverfield Drive (south)
  • Bayberry Lane (north of Easton Road)
  • Gray’s Farm Road

Questions? Call 203-341-1120.

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Bob Weingarten writes: “Years ago the Post Office changed all the outdoor mailboxes in Westport to provide only a small slot, big enough for envelopes, replacing a box with a door mechanism.

“Yesterday I posted a letter in the mailbox between UPS and Westport Hardware, at 606 Post Road East. There was some resistance, so I pushed it in. I felt the bottom of the slot entry. It was sticky, like some sort of adhesive was on the bottom rim. Perhaps someone placed adhesive in the slot to catcher letters, so they could retrieve them later.

“I asked at the UPS store about that. They said they informed the Post Office about the issue last week, but nothing was done about it. I called the phone number on the box to report it, but a recording said the phone was not in service.

“I wante to warn people to check the slot on outdoor boxes before placing letters in it. If it is sticky, do not use it.”

Mailbox outside the UPS Store. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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As Westport River Gallery on 1 Riverside Avenue celebrates its 20th anniversary in Westport, they feature a new collection by Dominique Dorie, from the Provence region of France. Click here for details.

“Fragrant French Lavender” (Dominique Dorie)

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What better way to end the week than by this very cool “Westport … Naturally” photo of Connecticut’s official state insect, a praying mantis:

(Photo/Pippa Bell Ader)

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And finally … on this day in 1969, before taking the stage with Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young at California’s Big Sur Folk Festival, Stephen Stills got in a fistfight with a heckler railing them for their profligate lifestyle.

The festival was raising funds for Joan Baez’ Institute for ghe Study of Nonviolence.

NOTE: The official video for this song was created by Westporter Jeff Scher.

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Posted in Arts, Local business, Local politics, Media, technology, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: State Senate, STEM Journal, Dave Stalling …

Posted on March 8, 2022 | 5 comments

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Michael Gordon has ended his campaign for Connecticut’s 26th District State Senate seat.

The former Westport Board of Education chair says: “After diving in a few weeks ago, I’ve come to realize that I can’t juggle effectively the multiple demands of family, work and this campaign/the State Senate.

“The simple truth is that I thought I could do all of it at a high level, but I’ve learned that I can’t. I was excited both to campaign and to serve, but I’m also clear that now is not the right time if I want to do the job well.

“I want to thank our wonderful friends for their enormous outpouring of support, kindness and offers of help. I also want to thank the many kind and wise new friends I’ve made throughout the 26th District. I wish Ceci Maher and Ken Bernhard the best of luck, and I look forward to supporting our nominee this fall.”

Michael Gordon

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The Westport Public Schools’ STEM program is robust. But for students who even more science, technology, engineering and math, Staples High School’s STEM Club is perfect.

For 6 years, one of their signature projects is a STEM Journal. Published 2 to 3 times a year, and packed with information on everything from the environment and medicine to astrophysics and psychology, it’s a great outlet for teenagers who love both research, and writing about it.

Its model is the journals published by universities and research institutions. Most of those have editorial boards — experts who review articles, provide advice and assist editors.

Staples’ STEM Journal wants to improve their scientific credibility, and link students with professionals. So they’re putting out a call for editorial board members. Interested in joining? Click here for more information.

But you don’t have to be an editorial board member to help the STEM Club. They need funds to publish print editions. To contribute, click here.

And to read any of the 11 STEM Journal issues published so far, click here.

The most recent edition

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Growing up in Westport, so close to the water — and years in Boy Scouts — influenced and inspired David Stalling’s love for and desire to protect wildlife and wild places.

The 1979 Staples High School graduate — and former Force Recon Marine — now lives in Montana. Now he’s got an even deeper understanding of life, and what it means to be part of the natural world. He’s thought often about grizzly bears and wolves, and the need for complete and balanced ecosystems.

The other day, he was a guest on the “All Things Wolf and Wild” podcast. He discussed Western wildlife — but also his youth back East. Click here for the fascinating episode.

Dave Stalling

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Westport River Gallery (1 Riverside Avenue, at the Post Road West corner) specializes in, among other things, European art.

This month they highlight 2 Ukrainian artists. Click here for details.

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Paul Delano describes today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo:

“These very small crocuses are in my yard, looking toward Newtown Turnpike. You have to be almost on top of them to see them. I love putting crocuses in the grass because they are little surprise gems that are up and gone by the time grass needs to be mowed.”

(Photo/Paul Delano)

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And finally … what better way to celebrate International Women’s Day than this?

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Local business, Media, Politics, Staples HS

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Roundup: Remarkable Playhouse, Pop Art, WVEMS, More

Posted on October 19, 2020 | 2 comments

Stage and screen met Saturday night. The Westport Country Playhouse’s gala was held outdoors, at the Remarkable Theater.

Doug Tirola and Mark Lamos’ short-form documentary saluted the WCP’s 90-year history, and many of the artists who have appeared onstage.

The evening included filmed performances by Playhouse alumni like Kate Baldwin, a long with Jane Alexander, Lissy Newman, Christopher Plummer, Stephen Sondheim, Richard Thomas and more.

Don’t worry about the photo below: Everyone was masked, except while eating.

(Photo/Molly Alger)

Speaking of stars:

Paul Newman, I Love Lucy, Martha Stewart, Rodney Dangerfield, Robert Ludlum, Redford, Superman, Dennis the Menace, Great Gatsby, Bewitched, Anne Hathaway, Christopher Lloyd, Helen Hunt and gazillions of others — all lived in Westport, had a show based here, or were otherwise connected to our town.

This multi-media original showing them all is now available exclusively at Westport River Gallery (corner of Riverside Avenue and Post Road West).

It was created by songwriter Frankie Vinci. His rock journey has led him to create raw, colorful pop art/mixed media pieces.

Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service’s annual fundraising drive is underway.

Nearly 100 volunteers and 6 full-time staff provide superb pre-hospital care to anyone living, working or passing through Westport. They give more than 18,000 hours of their time each year, responding to over 2,300 emergency calls. They also teach CPR, EMT and Stop the Bleed classes.

This year has been especially trying. Because of COVID, over 900 calls meant  donning full PPE. Still, they answered the calls.

WVEMS purchases all of the equipment needed — from a box of Band-Aids to an entire, state-of-the-art ambulance. But they could not do it without us.

Tax-deductible donations make it all possible. Click here to help.

So Westport Volunteer EMS can continue to help us.

And finally … did you know that October is National Pasta Month?

 

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Posted in Arts, Entertainment, Local business, Organizations, Westport Country Playhouse

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Walking Tour Of Downtown Art Galleries

Posted on July 25, 2020 | 1 comment

We joke about the number of women’s clothing stores in downtown Westport.

But there are nearly as many art galleries — places to buy paintings, sculpture and  more — as there are spots for skirts, shoes and Spandex.

Six galleries hug both banks of the river. Each has its own style. Taken together, they reinforce Westport’s reputation as an arts town.

Amy Simon Fine Art recently moved from Southport to 123 Post Road East. A dealer with over 30 years’ experience at places like the Guggenheim and Metropolitan Museum of Art (and with the estate of Jackson Pollock), Amy showcases work by established and emerging artists, Chinese contemporary art, and limited edition prints by the likes of Warhol, Rauschenberg and Lichtenstein.

Amy Simon Fine Art

Around the corner on Church lane is Sorelle Gallery, a recent arrival from New Canaan. The women-owned and managed business (the name means “sisters” in Italian) — which also has a robust online presence — includes plenty of reasonably priced work. (NOTE: Today at 1 p.m., Sorelle is hosting a reception — with Prosecco. All are welcome.)

Sorelle Gallery

Perhaps Westport’s best known — and most visible — gallery is Pop’TArt, at the head of Main Street by the Post Road. Originally a pop-up, it focuses on contemporary American art that pushes visitors to think about current headlines. All artists live in or have ties to Fairfield County. Pop’TArt hosted the hugely successful Aware breast cancer campaign, and currently exhibits statues by Bolek.

Pop’TArt

Three galleries lie just across the Saugatuck River. Bankside Contemporary by historic National Hall calls itself more than just a gallery. It’s a “communal gathering space,” offering a relaxed, casual atmosphere along with art.

Artwork by Steve Lyons at Bankside Contemporary (Photo/Phil Nourie)

Around the corner on Wilton Road is Quidley and Company Fine Art. Open by appointment now, with a focus on only one or two artists at a time, it features landscapes, portraits and figurative works, marine and still lifes. Owner Chris Quidley owns another gallery in Nantucket.

Quidley and Company

Across the street, Westport River Gallery at the corner of the Post Road and Riverside opened in 2004. Owners Ken and Pat Warren carry international fine art, and work with collectors, corporate clients and decorators from across the nation.

Westport River Gallery

That’s not all the art in the area, either. The Artists Collective of Westport has organized shows in the 47 Main Street storefront. The Downtown Merchants plan special events soon.

Keep your eye on this space. And on all those galleries too.

(Hat tip: Rebecca Mace)

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Posted in Arts, Downtown, Local business

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COVID-19 Roundup: Hotspots; Help; Candy; Goggles; More

Posted on April 11, 2020 | 3 comments

A pair of Bedford Middle School 7th graders (and Science Olympiad team members) have taken distance learning to a new level.

Using information from the CDC and WHO, Adi Mittal and Andrew Rebello created a website that helps anyone in the US find the nearest coronavirus hotspot — a place in their state with a noteworthy number of cases.

Hotspotsnearu.com (click here) is insanely easy to use. Just click in your Zip code; you’ll see a map with information on your distance from it. Bookmark it, and check often!

Daniel Sullivan — Westporter Michael and Amy Greenberg’s son-in-law — is a chef. When furloughed on March 13, he was in the process of starting a catering business.

Still, he wanted to help others in need. With an 18-foot open-air BBQ trailer — including a smoker and wood-fired grill — the answer was easy.

On Facebook, Daniel hoped to raise $600. That would cover a great meal, for 200 hospital staff.

He blasted through that goal. Friends came through with $2,700.

Soon he’ll cook meals for Stamford Hospital and Orange Regional Medical Center, in his Middletown, New York home town. He hopes to do the same for Norwalk Hospital, and Westport’s police, fire and EMT workers.

“I want to keep folks fed as long as I can,” Daniel says. To help him do that, click here.

Daniel Sullivan

Westport River Gallery — the great spot on the corner of Post Road West and Riverside Avenue featuring American, European and Asian fine art — is closed.

But owner Ken Warren — who works inside, cleaning and hanging —  put this sign outside:

A steady stream of people stop, pick up a piece of two, knock on the window and give a thumb’s-up. One man left a $20 bill.

“Free candy helps people smiling during an unsmiling time,” Ken says. Candy on indeed!

Julia Marino — Westport’s Olympic snowboarding star —  made a PSA for the US nation team’s “Goggles for Docs” initiative. The project collects ski and snowboard goggles, which offer great protection for healthcare professionals as they work with COVID-19 patients.

Julia’s mother Elaine — a noted local volunteer — loved the idea. Her home is now a local collection point.

Anyone with new or used goggles (adult or children’s size) can sanitize them with wipes or spray, place them in a sealed plastic ban, then leave them in a bin on the front steps at 129 Sturges Highway (near Cross Highway). The sealed part is important: The top of the bin stays open, so no one touches it. Questions? Email esmarino@msn.com.

Elaine Marino, and her Goggles for Docs bin.

Yesterday, Virginia Jaffe and her Greens Farms Elementary School sewing moms donated 135 washable, re-usable masks to Norwalk Transit’s bus drivers. Next up: 100+ to Homes with Hope.

Westporter Kanika Taylor works with homeless and recovering addicts in Bridgeport, through CCAR. She says that while Sacred Heart University has generously opened its dorms to people in shelters who have the virus but don’t require hospitalization, sheets, blankets, paper plates and microwaveable dishes are desperately needed. Donations can be dropped off at 387 Clinton Avenue, Bridgeport.

In addition, financial donations can be made to a restaurant that provides 2 fresh meals to Bridgeporters; the cost is $10 for food and supplies. Send checks to Carmen Colon, c/o Alpha Community Services YMCA, 387 Clinton Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06605.

Kanika Taylor

And finally, the youth group of St. Luke Church created this video. It’s their Easter gift to Westport:

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Posted in Environment, Local business, Organizations, religion

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