Tag Archives: Westport School of Music

Roundup: Staples Basketball, UnPlastic Bathrooms, New Tailor …

Posted on March 4, 2026 | 1 comment

Staples High School’s two basketball teams have had magical seasons.

Coach Dave Goldshore’s boys are undefeated: 22-0. Coach Tommy Sparks’ girls have lost only twice; they’re 20-2.

The magic continues tonight (Wednesday). Both squads battle for the FCIAC championship. It’s a Wrecker doubleheader, at Fairfield University. The girls tip off at 5:30 p.m.; the boys follow at 7:30.

The top-seeded boys team faces #3 Ridgefield, for a rematch of last year’s final –won by the Westporters, for their first league title in 62 years.

A week ago, in the regular season finale, Staples downed the Tigers 67-49.

The #2-ranked girls play #1 Greenwich. Earlier this year, the Cardinals handed the Wreckers their first defeat, 55-42.

Click here for tickets, and livestream information.

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Last month, Sustainable Westport rolled out their “UnPlastic Westport” initiative. The initial focus was on reducing use of plastic in the bathroom.

Now they’ve augmented it with an easy-to-follow video. What’s particularly impressive is that it includes not just successes, but “compromises” and a “fail.”

Gretchen Hoffmann — Sustainable Westport’s program manager — shows how she’s tried to UnPlastic her own bathroom.

She’s swapped out soap, toilet paper and a loofah, with great results. She’s had to compromise around her use of face care products and disposable contact lenses. She’s had the least success with shampoo and conditioner.

Gretchen talks honestly about all that in the video below.

Sustainable Westport asks for feedback, in the Comments section here or on YouTube. You can also take the UnPlastic Pledge, and let them know one swap you’re committed to making.

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The 69th consecutive monthly VFW Red Cross blood drive takes place tomorrow (Thursday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; VFW Post 399).

Donors are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance. Click here; then use sponsor code VFWWESTPORT, or call 800-733-2767.

Donors can get a $15 gift card by email, and A1C testing, to diagnose and monitor prediabetes and diabetes. Click here for details.

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There’s a new tailor in town.

Welvin Rosario has just opened up on the 2nd floor of 141 Main Street — a few steps north of The Gap.

He offers style consultations, bespoke fittings and alterations. Click here for the website. (Hat tip: Sal Liccione)

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Westport youngsters have many opportunities to discover and thrive in the arts.

Those in Bridgeport have fewer chances.

Neighborhood Studios fills a vital role. For nearly 50 years, the non-profit has provided an inclusive, welcoming environment that offers high-quality art, music, theater and dance instruction to children of all ages, regardless of ability, background or finances.

They do it through after-school, Saturday and summer programs; partnerships with schools and non-profits; performances, and transportation and financial assistance.

Many Westporters support Neighborhood Studios.

On March 20 (6 p.m., Foolproof Brewery, Bridgeport), several local couples –Jeffrey and Laurie Gross, Jim and Lizzie Wolf, Zach and Erica Barratt, and Zack and Sheera Gross — are sponsoring a “Spring Fling Fundraiser.”

The night features live music from Sonic Bullet, food, an open bar, beer tastings, a silent auction — and of course, memorable performances from the students at Neighborhood Studios.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking of young artists: The Westport School of Music combines its former fall faculty chamber concert and its  biennial student chamber music concert on Saturday, March 21 (1 p.m., Pequot Library).

Faculty members will join some of the duos. The concert will feature classical jazz and pop music for voice, piano, guitar, violin, viola, cello, bass and flute.

The performance is free/ For more information, call 203-227-4931, or email  smiller@wsmusic.org.

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Upcoming this month at (or sponsored by) the Westport Book Shop:

An afternoon with children’s author Lauren Tarshis (March 15, 3 p.m., Westport Library): The Staples High School graduate talks about her “I Survived” series, and signs book. Participants can win prizes playing “I Survived Kahoot!” trivia.

It’s a ticketed event, to benefit the Westport Book Shop. Children’s tickets are $10, and include 1 book. Chaperone tickets (or for those who do not want a book) are $5. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Meet children’s author/social advocate/actress/producer Ebbe Bassey (March 21, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Westport Book Shop): On World Down Syndrome Day, Bassey reads from and discusses her children’s book “Anoushka’s Extraordinary Heroes.” A spunky 5-year-old and a diverse group of superheroes show that true strength comes from friendship, compassion, inclusivity, and embracing what makes us different.

March Short Story Club: March 25 (6 p.m.): The selection will be about the immigrant experience, and announced soon. Registration is required: 203-349-5141, or RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

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Meanwhile, Shark Week comes early to Westport.

This Sunday (March 8, 2 p.m. Westport Library, Emmy Award-winning natural history filmmaker Kevin Bachar offers “Sharks by The Saugatuck”: stories and films for the whole family. (Arrive early, for family-friendly shark crafts).

In the event — presented by Andrew Wilk — Bachar will talk about swimming with hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, bull sharks, and the fearsome great white.

He’ll also show photos and videos of killer whales, on the rim of exploding volcanoes, and tracking moose in the north woods of Connecticut. Click here for more information.

In 2023, a baby shark washed up on Burying Hill Beach. (Photo/Margaret Schwabe)

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The subject of last night’s Westport Country Playhouse Script in Hand series was “The Subject Was Roses.”

The Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner has been performed on stage at the historic theater before. This was its first incarnation as a play reading.

From left: director Joe Delafield, stage director Faith Sandberg, actors Lenny Wolpe, Isabel Keating and Etai Benson, artistic director Mark Shanahan, stage manager Caitlyn Ostrowski. (Photo/Kelsey McFarland)

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We’ve run bobcat photos before, as our “Westport … Naturally” feature of the day.

Most show them slinking around at the edge of a property.

This one — on Richmondville Avenue — came close enough Monday to pause, and pose.

Be careful out there!

(Photo/Natalie Kollman)

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And finally … in honor of Sunday’s “shark” event at the Westport Library (story above):

(You don’t need to draw out all your hard-earned cash to support “06880.” Whatever you can afford is great! Just click here. We’re not “back in town,” after all. We’re here, and not going anywhere.)

 

 

 

 

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Posted in Arts, Environment, Library, Local business, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Long Lots Next Steps, Drug Take Back Day, Unitarian Reflections …

Posted on October 25, 2023 | 14 comments

The Long Lots Elementary School project took one small step forward last night.

The Board of Finance discussed the project, in the first of 3 expected meetings.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker laid out the rest of the timetable, at Town Hall.

The Parks & Recreation Commission meets Monday (October 30, 7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium; click here for livestream), and will follow up with at least one more meeting.

The Planning & Zoning Commission will then hear an 8-24 (land use) application — most likely, not before December.

Then, a request for design specs will go to the Board of Finance and Representative Town Meeting, beginning with relevant committees.

Despite being behind schedule, Tooker still aims for for construction to begin a year from now, in the fall of 2024.

The current plan for a new building at Long Lots Elementary School must be heard — and approved — by several town bodies.

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Got drugs?

This Saturday (October 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Aspetuck Health District, 180 Bayberry Lane), the Westport Police Department partners with the US Drug Enforcement Administration, for the 25th annual Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

Residents are asked to look in medicine cabinets and drawers for medications that are no longer needed, or out of date. The service is free and anonymous, with no questions asked.

Take Back Day has removed more than 8,300 tons of medication from circulation since its inception.

Collection sites cannot accept illicit drugs, needles or sharps; only pills or patches.

Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container, with caps tightly sealed.

Vape pens with removable batteries can be disposed of at the take-back site. Vape pens without removable batteries are not accepted.

A year-round collection bin is available in the lobby of Westport police headquarters. Prescription drugs can be disposed of any time there. Click here for more information.

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As tensions mount internationally, domestically and locally, the Unitarian Universalist Congregation hopes residents can come together.

“All of us are spiritual people, no matter our personal faith traditions or religious affiliations,” the UU says. “We can find solace in community … in peace, in meditation, and in reflection.”

This Saturday (October 28, 4 to 5 p.m., the sanctuary, 10 Lyons Plains Road), Rev. Alan Tayler and others will lead attendees through a meditative experience.

“It will be a time to just be, in quiet, with one another, with a very few readings and with cellist Gunnar Sahlin offering some lovely cello pieces,” the UU adds.

All are welcome. Questions? Call 203-227-7205, ext. 10, or email beth@uuwestport.org; www.uuwestport.org.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation sanctuary.

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For over 100 years, the 1917 home at 44 Compo Mill Cove — one of the most distinctive, and most photographed homes i Westport — has weathered hurricanes and nor’easters.

It’s seen the Old Mill neighborhood change from summer shacks to multi-million-dollar properties.

Several experts thought it was too fragile to work with. But new owners Lance and Anne Lonergan wanted to preserve it.

With the help of Michael Greenberg & Associates, and a firm in Pennsylvania, they’re lifting it, renovating it, and adding on some modern features — while retaining its bones and beauty.

Here’s to another century, as the “Queen of Compo Cove.”

(Hat tip and photo/Robin Tauck)

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Speaking of saving a town icon:

Yesterday’s Roundup noted that the 2 weeping cherry blossom trees in front of Sakura have been saved from destruction.

The effort — involving the state Department of Transportation, property owner, restaurant owner, Earthplace and Eversource.

Town officials, including Representative Town Meeting members, were key parts of the negotiations.

Representative Town Meeting members in front of the Sakura trees (from left): Don O’Day, Claudia Shaum, Andrew Colabella, Matthew Mandell, Chris Tait, Jay Keenan, Seth Braunstein.

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A reader writes:

“While walking on Burying Hill beach twice last weekend, I saw huge numbers of golf balls in the water. They come from golfers practicing their chipping, into the Sound.

“From an environmental point of view, I imagine these break down eventually and pose any number of hazards. In the meantime, it is unsightly litter.

“I took over 100 golf balls out of the water. The current pulls them out and around Frost Point back towards Burying Hill Beach. The density is always thickest toward Southport.

“I know there are many many greater issues in our town, country and world, but this seems like an easy one to fix. Perhaps the person watching the sunset and ceaselessly chipping balls from their yard into the water is unaware of potential issues with the practice, or perhaps they just don’t care.

“But I do.”

Golf balls taken from Burying Hill Beach.

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This sign — spotted on Post Road West, near what may be the worst 4-way intersection in town — sums up many residents’ feelings about the ongoing I-95 Saugatuck Avenue bridge rehabilitation project:

(Photo/Stephanie Bass)

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Here’s something more than trivial:

VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 has introduced a weekly Trivia Night.

Doors open every Wednesday at 5 p.m. Games start at 6.

Trivia Night also includes drinks, food and raffles. For more information, call 203-227-6796.

Come for the food, drinks, raffles and camaraderie; stay for the trivia.

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Speaking of the VFW: If you bought tickets to Jon Gailmor’s “First Folk Sunday” appearance November 5 at the VFW, you’re in luck. As noted last weekend on “06880,” the 1966 Staples High School graduate is a special performer.

If you did not get tickets, you’re out of luck: The show is sold out.

Keep reading our Roundup, though, for future shows in this very cool monthly series.

Jon Gailmor

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So — still looking for something to do November 5?

The Westport School of Music offers “An Afternoon of Hot Jazz & Cool Classics” (4 p.m., MoCA Westport).

The law firm of Nguyen Lefft sponsors this chamber music concert. They’ll honor all Westport non-profit and public school music educators, and have invited them to attend.

Eleven musicians will present jazz favorites, light French classics, 2 Strauss songs, and piano 4-hands works.

Afterwards, audience members can greet the artists, and enjoy wine, hors d’oeuvres, pizza and juice.

For more information, call 203-227 – 4931, or email smiller@wsmusic.org.

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Speaking of MoCA: 2 important events have been added to their calendar.

On November 18 (7 p.m.), 2022 Heida Hermanns Competition laureate Artem Kuznetsov returns, after performing around the world.

November 21 (7 p.m.) brings the Django Festival Allstars. They’ve played top festivals and concert halls across the US, including Newport Jazz, the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, and 24 years at Birdland in New York.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Artem Kuznetsov

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Longtime Westporter Russell Sherman discussed his varied and interesting career yesterday, at the Westport Rotary Club’s weekly meeting.

The Staples High School graduate started out in television sports broadcasting, then was head of corporate public relations at Bear Stearns when it collapsed in 2008.

He launched his own consulting firm, which was acquired by Prosek Partners.

Sherman also hosts a podcast, “Press Profiles,” where he interviews leading business reporters, anchors and editors.

Russell Sherman (Photo/Ellin Curley)

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Claudia Sherwood Servidio captured today’s gorgeous “Westport … Naturally” image, o a recent late afternoon off Cross Highway.

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

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And finally … following up on the Unitarian Universalist Congregation’s “come together” invitation for this Saturday (story above):

(Another day, another jam-packed “06880” Roundup. If you enjoy, learn from or otherwise appreciate this daily feature, please support our work. Click here — and thank you!)

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Posted in Environment, Local politics, Police, religion, Restaurants

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Roundup: Taste, Playhouse, Cops …

Posted on May 11, 2023 | 4 comments

It may be Westport’s best culinary event of the year.

The 17th annual “Taste of Westport” sold out quicker than ever this spring. Last night, hundreds of residents packed the Inn at Longshore, to enjoy food and drinks from more than 2 dozen restaurants and vendors — plus bid on an enormous silent auction, and buy raffle tickets.

It was all for a great cause: CLASP, the Westport-based organization serving adults with autism and developmental disabilities throughout Fairfield County.

The Inn went all out making it a special night. So did a host of groups that supported the Taste of Westport.

Special appreciation goes to the staffs who kept the treats coming all night:

  • Artisan
  • Boathouse Restaurant
  • Black Bear Wines & Spirits
  • Bridgewater Chocolate
  • Cold Fusion Gelato & Sorbet
  • DeTapas
  • 5th Estate Distillery
  • Gruel Brittania
  • Gabriele’s Italian Steakhouse
  • Grumpy Dumpling Co.
  • Freisenet Mionetto
  • Isla & Co.
  • Little Pub
  • La Plage
  • Leven(thal) Bakery
  • Mrs. London’s Artisan Bakery
  • Magic Pie Co.
  • NewSylum Brewing
  • Nðmade
  • Nordic Fish
  • Rive Bistro
  • Rizzuto’s
  • Romanacci Pizza Bar
  • Post Oak Barbecue Co.
  • Tablao Wine Bar & Restaurant
  • Sono1420 American Craft Distillers
  • Tarantino Restaurant
  • Walrus Alley

A small part of the large Taste of Westport crowd. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Westport Country Playhouse artistic director Mark Lamos sent this email yesterday:

“Dear Subscribers and Donors –

“Thank you for your continued support during my 15 years with the Playhouse. Because I value the relationship we have, I wanted personally to inform you, before it is announced to the press tomorrow, that I will be leaving the Playhouse in January 2024.

“The pandemic, though challenging and globally tragic, also proved positive — for me — in many ways.

“While working tirelessly to sustain the Playhouse during this period of extreme uncertainty, I was also relieved of the burdens, excitement, and anxiety of producing and directing. I began to sense another way of living my life now. Though staff, trustees, and I worked diligently to keep the Playhouse functioning during 2 difficult years, the pandemic’s exigencies allowed me to spend more time at home with my husband Jerry, and to experience new-found quotidian joy: taking long daily walks, listening to more music, reading for hours a day, investing in our home, and taking care of an aging, beloved dog.

“The racial reckoning that awakened our country also had a profound, transformative effect on my feelings about how and why we make theater now. And I realized I’d need time to take the advice of 2 formidable female friends who insisted I create a new artistic challenge for myself. That project has begun but needs my full attention. And so after some thoughtful times over the holidays, last January 15 I felt the time had come to exercise the clause in my contract that allows me to leave upon 12 months’ notice.

“During my 15 seasons at this historic theater, I worked hard to raise its already formidable artistic standards as much as possible through my collaboration with some truly world class American theater artists. I sought to bring a wider range of voices to our stage in the most physically beautiful productions our budgets allowed. I took special pleasure in investing in the work of Black, Latinx, and AAPI artists, bringing the voices of many marginalized communities to our stage.

“And it’s been a real joy working with our amazing staff over the years, people who realized dreams and met goals, especially our Associate Producer/Director of Production David Dreyfoos, without whom the above — and so much else — would have been impossible. I’ll really miss them. I especially look forward to working with them all closely as I direct the upcoming production Dial M For Murder. I hope that you will join me during the run and celebrate all the wonderful memories we have made here, at the Playhouse.”

Mark Lamos

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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between May 3 and 10.

One was for domestic violence, following an incident at a local business.

Another arrest was for driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and failure to drive in the proper lane, after a head-on collision on Compo Road South.

The third was for violation of home improvement requirements, when a non-licensed contractor did not complete work.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 7 citations
  • Failure to comply with state traffic regulations: 6
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 4
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
  • Speeding: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signal: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Improper turn/no signal: 1
  • Failure to display license plates: 1
  • Improper use of license plates: 1
  • Failure to renew driver’s license: 1

Every contractor in the state must have one of these.

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Speaking of the Westport Police:

Their newest K-9, Brute, just received a Kevlar bullet-resistant vest

The donation came from Responder Wellness, a non-profit that provides equipment and wellness services to first responders.

Brute, his bullet-resistant vest, his handlers and donors.

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Kai Ross is a star on the Staples High School water polo team.

His star now shines a bit brighter: He’s just been named to the USA Water Polo national youth team.

The 6-6, 248-pound center competes in San Diego this weekend, then heads back to California for the US men’s senior nationals in July.

He has had several college scholarship offers. But he’s young — not yet 18 — so he’ll take a gap year after graduating next month. He’ll likely spend the fall with a California club, then head to Spain, Italy or Croatia to play in the spring.

Kai Ross

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If you tried to email Luisa Francoeur yesterday about the model schooner she’s selling — my apologies. Her address was incorrect.

Here’s her email that really works: nutmeg5@optonline.net. Sail away!

Luisa Francouer’s schooner.

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Crispin Cioe has been busy.

Last week the Westporter — who has played sax with James Brown, the Rolling Stones, Solomon Burke, Darlene Love, Tom Waits, Ray Charles, Robert Palmer, Bronski Beat, the Ohio Players, Usher and many others — jammed with Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Mark Naftalin at the Westport Woman’s Club art show.

On May 19 (6:30 p.m.), his latest project is unveiled at the Westport Library.

For the past decade he’s been co-producing a documentary film (with Westport director Larry Locke called “Heaven Stood Still: The Incarnations of Willy DeVille.”

Cioe performed with singer/songwriter DeVille often in the 1980s, on tours and festivals in Europe and US.

DeVille (né Billy Borsey) grew up in Stamford, where he led teenage bands. After England and San Francisco, he landed in New York in the mid-’70s with his band Mink DeVille, at the newly opened CBGB. He had a solo career from the ’80s until he died in 2009, at 59.

DeVille is one of the greatest “lost” artist in pop music history. Bob Dylan, John Mellencamp, Tom Waits, Boz Skaggs and Southside Johnny all cite him as a revered influence.

The film reflects his music and troubled life in detail. It includes interviews with Ben E. King, Chris Frantz, and J. Geils Band singer Peter Wolf.

The May 19 showing is free; click here to register. It will be followed by a Q&A monitored by Cioe, with Chris Frantz, and writers Nick Flynn and John Eskow.

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Speaking of sounds: The Westport School of Music introduces listeners to the music and culture of India and Iraq this Saturday (May 13, 1 p.m., MoCA Westport).

The free concert features violinist Ameen Modad, who hid for 2 years and composed music secretly while Iraq was controlled by ISIS, and tabla player Nilanjan Bhowmik and his wife Dipita Chakraborty, a soprano. The couple will share stories and perform poems set to music by Nobel Prize-winning poet Tagore.

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Wakeman Town Farm announced a 5-session A Child’s Pose yoga class on Saturday mornings, for youngsters 1 1/2 to 5 years old.

“Partner poses will strengthen and soothe both child and their grownup,” WTF says. Click here for more details, and to register.

Also at the Farm, and for kids: weekday afternoon “animal socials.”

Youngsters can snuggle, hold, brush and watch goats and lambs play.

It’s suitable for all ages; tickets required for anyone over the age of 1. Click here to select a date, register, and learn more.

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Westporter Lewis Goldman died Tuesday, at home. He was 93 years old.

He graduated from DeWitt Clinton High School in the Bronx, and earned degrees from City College of New York and Brooklyn Law School. During the Korean War, he served in the Army.

His family describes Lew as “a sweet, brilliant man, with a wicked sense of humor and a deep passion for learning.

He is survived by his wife Hedda; daughters Melissa of New York City and Amy of Novato, California; son David (Margo) of Santa Monica, California, and grandchildren Morgan Chapman, Andrew Goldman, and Alexa Goldman).

The family wishes thanks Karen Whittington, John Pounds, and others who cared for Lew in recent years.

A private burial took place at Temple Israel Cemetery. To share a condolence message, click here. Memorial contributions may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center.

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Cathy Malkin thought this tree at the Winslow Park entrance might make an interesting “Westport … Naturally” feature.

She’s right!

(Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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And finally … though Crispin Cioe’s next gig involves a movie he co-produced (story above), we can’t forget his music.

Here are a few selections, from our Westport neighbor:

 

4 Comments

Posted in Arts, Children, Entertainment, Environment, Library, Obituaries, Police, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Election Day, Thanksgiving, Kristallnacht …

Posted on November 8, 2022 | 2 comments

Pigs can’t vote.

But people can.

And everyone should. It’s the central tenet of democracy. Millions of people have marched, sacrificed, even given their lives for this country to ensure that right.

Billions of people around the world wish they had what we have.

Jolantha — Weston’s favorite pig — reminds “06880” readers, wherever in America they are, that today is Election Day.

If you live in Westport, click here for a sample ballot. (Thanks, Jeff Looby!)

If you live in Connecticut, click here to find your polling place. Then go there!

NOTE: Voters at Coleytown Middle School polling place should take the first entrance on North Avenue (the one right after Coleytown Elementary School), rather than the one at the top of the slight hill.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

Turnout was light this morning. This was the scene at the Westport Library polling station.

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Speaking of the election: It’s a bit late. And most voters have probably made up their minds.

But yesterday, Sustainable Westport said: “This year, in lieu of environmental debates (issues with scheduling), we provided candidates with questions on environmental issues and sustainability. They submitted answers at the end of last week.”

For candidates for State House District 143, click here. Candidates for District 136 did not respond. For candidates for State Senate District 26, click here.

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Saugatuck Congregational Church will not host their traditional community Thanksgiving feast this year.

However, Westport’s Department of Human Services will once again join with the Westport Housing Authority and Homes with Hope to provide food gift cards and meals to those in need.

Those organizations are working with Coleytown Elementary School, Coleytown Middle School and Temple Israel to continue their traditions of offering homemade cards, gifts and pies.

Human Services director Elaine Daignault adds, “We are grateful to the Westport Woman’s Club. They provide grocery gift cards to distribute to food-insecure residents, and assist with the cost of specially catered meals from the Sherwood Diner for Westporters who receive home-delivered meals through the Senior Center.

For more information, contact Human Services by phone (203-341-1050) or email (humansrv@westportct.gov). “We are here to help!” Daignault says.

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With antisemitism on the rise in the nation, The Conservative Synagogue invites all Westporters to commemorate Kristallnacht — the Nazis’ “Night of Broken Glass” — this Saturday (November 12, 5:30 p.m., 30 Hillspoint Road).

The service includes Havdallah and hearing eyewitness testimony from Kristallnacht survivor Fred Behrend.

Click here to register.

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Saugatuck Rowing Club’s junior athletes won several medals at last month’s season-ending Head of the Schuylkill Regatta in Pennsylvania.

But they’re winners off the water too. The young rowers (and their parents) spent last weekend cleaning up the banks of the Saugatuck River, right by their home boathouse.

Thirty participants amassed over 300 pounds of trash. That’s 10 pounds of garbage per person.

Keep Norwalk Beautiful provided supplies. Jen and Adam Goldberg of Pop-Up Bagels donated nearly as many bagels as there were pounds of trash.

Saugatuck Rowing Club plans an encore this spring.

A small bit of the large amount of trash collected by Saugatuck Rowing Club volunteers.

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Speaking of Saugatuck: Slice of Saugatuck delivers. The September event raised $5,000 for Homes with Hope.

The 10th annual festival brought over 2,000 people to  experience, sample and taste their way through the neighborhood. To date, donations from the Slice to Homes with Hope, for use in their Gillespie Center Food Pantry, total over $40,000.

“The Festival is all about food — food for those who can afford it, and now food for those who can’t,” says Matthew Mandell, executive director of the Slice’s sponsor, the Westport Weston Chamber. “We are so pleased we have been able to make these donations each year to help ease food insecurity. It’s a win-win.”

From left: Bob O’Mahoney and Harry Brady Viva Zapata owners; Bill Rizzuto owner of Rizzuto’s; Helen McAlinden director of Homes with Hope; Matthew Mandell, Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce director; Robert Curwen, Chamber member.

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In 2010, former Red Sox pitcher John Trautwein lost his son Will to suicide. There was no sign or warning.

Trautwein and his family formed the “Will to Live Foundation.” The goal is to encourage teenagers and young adults to “talk about it,” and serve as “life teammates” for each other.

On November 17 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall), Trautwein will speak about this important topic. The event is sponsored by Westport Youth Services, the Police Athletic League, and the Teen Awareness Group.

Trautwein spoke to high school athletes in August, at the FCIAC leadership conference. His message was strong, and well received.

This program is aimed at parents, middle and high school students, coaches, and anyone who works with young people. Additional resources and counseling support will be available through Kids in Crisis and Positive Directions during and after the event.

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Why is a college transcript so crucial?

This Thursday (November 10, 7 p.m., online), Amy Chatterjee — senior college counselor from Collegewise, — discusses what a transcript actually is, how it can “show a love of learning through courses,” and why it’s the most important part of the college application.

Click here to register.

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Usually, it’s music teachers who watch their students perform on stage.

On November 20 (MoCA Westport, 4 p.m.), faculty members of the Westport School of Music will be on stage for a special concert. “Autumn Colors” will celebrate nature’s splendor, through piano, strings, flute, guitar and voice.

Highlights include “Autumn in New York,” “The Great Pumpkin Waltz” from “Charlie Brown,” and “Autumn” from “The Four Season of Buenos Aires.”

After the concert, guests can greet the musicians, and enjoy refreshments and drinks at the MoCA Bar.

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This week at Jazz at the Post: Spain’s “finest and most celebrated jazz pianist,”  Abé Rabade. Very popular throughout Europe, he’ll perform at VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 this Thursday.

Rabade’s music blends classic Catalonian and Galician styles, along with the soulful and swinging “great jazz tradition.”

Joining in are Rale Micic (guitar), “Jazz Rabbi” Greg Wall (saxophone), David Richards (bass0 and Tim Horner (drums).

There are shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m., with dinner starting at 7. Tickets are just $15. Email Jazzatthepost@gmail.como for reservations.

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Longtime Westporter Joan Kahn died Saturday, in Norwalk Hospital. She would have been 98 next month.

Joan’s family described her as “feisty, independent, determined, brilliant and caring.:

A “founding mother” of modern Westport, she and her husband Ed moved to Westport in 1953 from New York City. They lived first on Charcoal Hill, then built a home on Coach Lane.

Joan’s family called her “a sounding board and encourager of husband Ed throughout his town leadership as he chaired the Representative Town Meeting, spearheaded efforts to save Cockenoe Island, positioned Westport as the first town meeting to vote against the war in Viet Nam, and was a part of the committee that bought Longshore.”

With a group of mothers, Joan started the Westport Cooperative Nursery School (now Westport Nursery School).

Joan was valedictorian of her high school class at Calhoun High School in
New York, graduated from Smith College, and earned her social work degree from Columbia University in 1952.

She was an early “career mother,” as a social worker at Norwalk Hospital, then Bridgeport Hospital, and finally in the Norwalk school system, from which she retired.

She was an avid follower of politics, curious world traveler, and consummate reader. She was also an active, loving, mother of 3 children. all of whom attended Westport schools: Karen, Shoshi
and Dan.

She also leaves 6 grandchildren — Ron, Edwina, Maya, Eli, Max  and Emma =- and 4 great-grandchildren.

Joan Kahn

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Wakeman Town Farm volunteer Thomas Schmidt stopped feeding breakfast to the animals just long enough to snap today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo:

(Photo/Thomas Schmidt)

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And finally … Alice Cooper wanted to be elected.

If you want your candidate to be elected too … head to the polls! They’re open until 8 p.m. tonight.

(Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Greens, independents, Whigs, Know-Nothings, and everyone else: Vote with your wallets. Please click here to support “06880.”)

 

 

 

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Posted in Environment, Obituaries, religion

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Westport School Of Music: A New Tune On Newtown Turnpike

Posted on September 3, 2020 | 15 comments

In 1938, Marguerite Maxwell opened the Westport School of Music on Hillspoint Road. With 2 teachers and 40 students, it was a cultural and educational addition to what was already a burgeoning artists’ community.

In 1946, Maxwell purchased property on Woods Grove Road. The school moved there, with 9 faculty and over 100 students. Her rapport with children, organizational skills and administrative ability all helped drive the WSM’s growth.

Concert pianist Richard Gregor joined the faculty as artist-teacher in 1958. He created the first Scholarship Fund Benefit Concert 2 years later. Since then, more than 500 students have been granted over $140, 000 in aid.

Gregor took over as director following Maxwell’s death in 1972. As a teacher, administrator and performer, he too left his mark on the school.

The next director — Martha Hisey — ​used funds raised from Newman’s Own Foundation, Near And Far Aid Organization, The Fairfield County Foundation, and generous parents and donors to begin the WSM MusicWorks! music therapy program for students with special needs. She also developed chamber music series.

Sarah Miller became the 4th director in 2017. She continues the WSM tradition of excellence, while incorporating new initiatives like community partnerships and collaborations.

They include student performances for residents in long-term care faiclities, a partnership with Norwalk Housing Authority to bring 4th and 5th graders to a chorus/movement program, a Celtic music workshop for string players, and a chorus pilot project with the Senior Center.

Now the Westport School of Music is making another major change.

The Woods Grove property that for 74 years has been the school’s home has been showing its age. Repair and maintenance needs have increased.

The Westport School of Music on Woods Grove Road.

Last fall, Miller visited MoCA Westport to see if their exhibit space would work for yearly recitals and biannual student chamber concerts.

Executive director Ruth Mannes gave her a tour of MoCA’s new 19 Newtown Turnpike space. The 2nd floor was not in use.

Voila! That floor will soon be the new home of Westport School of Music. Like MoCA, they are a tenant of what was once Martha Stewart’s TV studio; the 2 organizations are not merging.

But the synergy of two cultural organizations in close physical proximity — with common goals of building new audiences, exploring collaborative projects and strengthening community ties — is exciting.

WSM students, faculty and families can be engaged with MoCA exhibits and programs. Similarly, the museum’s artists, students and visitors can be engaged with the music school’s offerings.

Westport School of Music takes over the 2nd floor at 19 Newtown Turnpike.

WSM begins its 83rd school year September 21. Since mid-March, instruction has been online.

Miller praises her staff’s ability to pivot quickly and professionally. Parents have praised their continued focus on a strong technical foundation, self-discipline and creativity. Virtual end-of-year recitals were well received too.

The 2020-21 school year opens with 3 weeks of online lessons. If it’s safe to do so, in-person instruction begins the week of October 12.

Piano, violin, viola, cello, string and electric bass, and acoustic guitar will be offered in the new location. Woodwind and voice instruction will be online, in step with the latest research on aerosol spread of COVID-19.

Virtual instruction on all instruments is an option for any student whose parents are not comfortable with in-person learning.

From the woods of Woods Grove, to the woods of Newtown Turnpike, this marks an exciting new adventure for the Westport School of Music. For information on programs and offerings, click here.

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Posted in Arts, Education, Organizations

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Street Spotlight: Woods Grove Road

Posted on July 18, 2019 | 12 comments

Some Westporters live on the water. Others live in the woods, or close to town.

But only residents of Woods Grove Road enjoy the Saugatuck River on two sides — with Coffee An’ just beyond.

Plus, of course, an easy stroll downtown.

Woods Grove is off Canal Street, on the right just past the parking lot for the old 323 restaurant, heading west toward Kings Highway.

Woods Grove Road is close to downtown. I’s bordered by 2 branches of the Saugatuck River.

AJ Izzo — owner of the old Crossroads Ace Hardware, another great close-by attraction (now replaced by an excellent liquor store) — says that when he grew up on nearby Richmondville Avenue, the area was woods, and a dirt road. Most houses were built in the 1940s and ’50s.

Ken Bernhard — who moved there from around the corner — calls Woods Grove “a charming respite.”

It’s a dead-end, so there’s little traffic. But it’s a long, winding road, so there are plenty of families. Kids play in the street. Neighbors chat.

Woods Grove Road is well named.

A “watering hole” features a dock and rope swing. “There’s nothing more pleasant than the sound of kids laughing and splashing,” he says.

The main branch of the river is great for canoeing and kayaking. Every morning, Ken says, a neighbor on the Wilton Road side paddles — with his German shepherd — to the dam and back. Everyone waves.

The neighborliness extends to Aquarion. The water utility owns land across the river. A while back, the pumping station made a distracting, growling sound. Ken offered to buy equipment to deaden the noise.

Nope, Aquarion said. They did it themselves.

A Woods Grove back yard.

Ken calls Woods Grove “delightful. The houses are not big, and the lots are not too large. Everything is the perfect size — just as much as we need.”

Besides Coffee An’ and the Merritt Country Store, residents can walk or bike to the library and Levitt. The Y — and Merritt Parkways exits 41 and 42 — are around the corner.

Yet one of the most interesting features of Woods Grove Road is one that neighbors barely mention.

A non-profit enterprise — the Westport School of Music — is located in a house halfway down the road. Established in 1938, it’s got a great reputation.

The Westport School of Music looks like any other home.

Students come and go quietly. There’s a little more traffic because of it than normal, but Woods Grove residents hardly notice. They’re happy to be near such a well-regarded, artistic enterprise.

Life on Woods Grove Road is good. Between the beautiful river and delicious donuts, who can complain?

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Posted in Downtown, Local business, Organizations, Real estate

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