Tag Archives: Westport Sunrise Rotary Club

Roundup: Lottery Win$, Jeremy Schaap, James Naughton …

Posted on September 18, 2023 | 1 comment

Westport figured prominently in 2 recent Connecticut Lottery wins.

A Milford resident won $1 million with a “$1,000,ooo Extreme Cash” scratch-off ticket sold at the Wheels gas station on Post Road East. The odds, the Lottery website says, are one in a million.

In addition, a Westporter won $300,000 in the same contest. The ticket was bought at B.J.’s Wholesale Club in Wallingford. 

A third connection: Westport resident Rob Simmelkjaer is chair of the Connecticut Lottery board of directors.

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Among Westport’s many ESPN connections, Jeremy Schaap is one of the best known.

The 1988 Staples High School graduate has been with the network since 1994. He hosts E:60 and Outside the Lines, ESPN’s showcase journalism shows, and the award-winning weekly radio show and podcast The Sporting Life.

Schaap has covered the Summer and Winter Olympics, FIFA World Cup, Tour de France, World Series, Super Bowl, tennis and golf US Opens, Wimbledon, Final Four .. you get the idea.

He won the Robert F. Kennedy Award for his story exposing the plight of World Cup migrant laborers in Qatar, as well as the Dick Schaap Sports Emmy — named for his father — for a profile of chess champion Bobby Fischer.

He interviewed Bobby Knight after he was fired by Indiana, and Darryl Strawberry after his colon cancer diagnosis.

This Thursday (September 21, 7 p.m.), Schaap joins fellow Westport journalist Dave Briggs in a conversation at the Westport Library. They’ll take about his long career, including sports, the media and much more.

Click here to register, and for more information.

Jeremy Schaap

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Westport Sunrise Rotary Club’s early morning speakers are always interesting.

This week’s guest is particularly note-worthy. And the public is welcome to attend.

On Friday (September 22, 7:45 a.m., Green’s Farms Congregational Church), Tony Award-winning actor and Weston resident James Naughton will talk.

But not about his career. Naughton’s topic is the Medical Assistance in Dying Act. He’s a powerful advocate for state legislation that would allow adults with a terminal illness to submit written requests for lethal medication. Under the proposed bill, adults who have been residents of Connecticut for at least a year and have been given less than 6 months to live can submit 2 written requests for lethal medication, at least 15 days apart.

Naughton is to help people at the end of life, for whom hospice palliative care is not enough, because his late wife Pamela was in that same situation.

Email president Liz Wong at info@WestportSunriseRotary.org if you plan to attend, or have questions. Coffee, bagels and muffins are served starting at 7 a.m.

James Naughton

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Have a heart!

That’s the suggestion of Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Services — and the theme of their fundraising gala.

“The Heart of Westport” will raise money to replace our first responders’ Automated Electronic Defibrillator (AED) machines. The event is October 21 (Christ & Holy Trinity  Church, 6 p.m.).

Hosts include WVEMS president Michael Burns, celebrity stylist Jeni Bianco, and Westport Moms Megan Rutstein and Melissa Post.

The $75,000 goal will ensure that every Westport emergency vehicle — EMS, Police and Fire — to have life-saving machines. Current machines are becoming outmoded.

The event includes food, drinks, entertainment, and auction items donated by well-known Westporters.

Click here for tickets and more information. For questions and sponsorship opportunities, email jenielizabeth@gmail.com.

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Aztec Two-Step 2.0’s “Simon & Garfunkel Songbook” show has drawn raves everywhere.

This Saturday, area residents can see it in (almost) their back yard.

Rex Fowler and Dodie Pettit bring their show to the SHU Community Theatre, in the heart of Fairfield. Show time is 8 p.m. Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking of music: The October 1 “First Folk Sunday” is special. It’s the release party of Suzanne Sheridan’s “Standing Ovation” CD. It includes the country hit “90 Pound Suburban Housewife Driving in Her SUV.” (Yes, Westport — Sheridan’s longtime home — was her inspiration.)

Every audience member gets a free copy of the CD — and a slice of cake.

At First Folk Sunday (VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, 12:30 p.m.; $10 cover charge), Sheridan (vocals and guitar) will be accompanied by Bob Cooper (keyboards).

Musicians on the CD include Chris Coogan, Beth Styles, Andy Gundell, Ed Thompson, Scarlett Lee Moore, John Lathan, Mary Bond Davis, Leslie Miller, Jeff Gomard, the late Giff Foster and Matt Nozzolio, John Moses, Mike Mills and “Children of the Sun” Drumming Circle, and The Studebakers of Austin, Texas.

The songs were recorded over several years, in studios in various towns and cities.

Click here for tickets to Sheridan’s release party. For more information, email info@firstfolksunday.com, or call 203-222-1441.

Suzanne Sheridan

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For a while, the Post Road East wood pile at the corner of Roseville Road looked a little less haphazard and dangerous than before.

No longer.

Here was the scene yesterday:

(Photo/Molly Alger)

A word to the crew working on the Route 1 renovation project: “Be careful out there.”

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One of the joys of Compo Beach’s  South Beach is scrambling up the trees near the kayak launch.

Kids do it all the time.

Yesterday, Ken Schwarz did it too.

Why is this “06880”-worthy?

Because he’s 87 years old.

There’s a saying: “Once a kid, always a kid.”

No kidding!

(Photo/June Rose Whittaker)

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image is not a banana.

Or a banana slug.

It is, Steve Halstead assures us, a spicebush swallowtail larva.

And, he says, it will eventually morph into a beautiful adult butterfly.

We’ll take it over a spotted lanternfly any day.

(Photo/Steve Halstead)

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And finally … in honor of our Westport-related Connecticut Lottery winners (story above):

(“06880” could buy lottery tickets. But we prefer to rely on the support of our readers. Please click here to donate. It’s a sure bet. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Fireworks Tickets, Duck Race, Levitt Pavilion …

Posted on June 25, 2023 | 10 comments

Tickets are going fast for the greatest party in town: the Independence Day fireworks.

They’re early this year: this Thursday (June 29). As always, Compo Beach is the place to be.

The event is sponsored — once again — by longtime Westport residents Melissa and Doug Bernstein. Their generosity allows Westport PAL to benefit from ticket sales — and run programs and offer scholarships impacting thousands of kids.

Tickets ($50 per car) can be bought at the Westport Police station (50 Jesup Road) and Parks & Recreation office (in Longshore Park), during business hours.

They’re first-come, first-served. And no one gets into Compo without one.

The greatest party in town. (Photo/David Squires)

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Yesterday’s s Great Duck Race was a huge success. Attendees — win or lose — had tons of fun. The Westport Sunrise Rotary Club put on another successful event. And the many non-profits that will benefit from the fundraiser will be thrilled.

But there were smaller moments to celebrate too. Here’s one.

Jo Luciano grew up in Westport. She now lives in Florida, but had a special reason to donate to the Duck fundraiser: Her father — Police Chief Sam Luciano — died suddenly in 1970. The Westport Rotary Club generously paid for her, and her sister Carol’s, college educations.

Jo had trouble making the online donation. She found the address for the Rotary Club — but it was “Westport Rotary,” not the “Sunrise Rotary” that puts on the event.

No problem. Leslie Roberts of Westport Rotary forwarded Jo’s email to the Sunrise club.

Problem solved! Jo bought 3 ducks.

But there’s also this Westport-is-really-just-a-small-town postscript: Sunrise Rotary past president Rick Jaffe told Jo: “I live on the other side of the train station from Luciano Park. I take my grandchildren there whenever they visit.”

That’s right: the small park in Saugatuck is named for Jo’s father, the late police chief.

It’s great that Jo still feels connected to Westport. And that Rick now feels a bit more connected to Luciano Park.

Here’sPolice another Great Duck Race story: At the end of a very busy day, Dave Hoffman of the Makin’ Waves food truck had one coconut shrimp left.

He knew Sunrise Rotarian Sheila Keenan loves it. So he walked it across the street, and presented it to an equally exhausted — but very grateful — Sheila.

Dave Hoffman, Sheila Keenan and the coconut shrimp. (Photo and hat tip/Richard Jaffe)

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Also last night: the Levitt Pavilion’s Michael Franti and Phillip Phillips show.

The sold-out event had everyone dancing.

Except one dog, who wished he was.

(Photo/Jo Shields Sherman)

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Meanwhile, this morning — at the ungodly hour of 4 a.m. — 21 teenagers and 6 adult leaders left Saugatuck Congregational Church, for their annual youth mission trip.

This year’s destination: Washington state. They’ll help with flood recovery, and work with families in need.

Previous mission trips have included Colorado, Arizona, Maine, Alabama, Puerto Rico, and Cuba.

Saugatuck Church youth group. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

Green’s Farms Congregational Church’s youth group left this weekend too, on their mission.

They’re headed to Tennessee.

Green’s Farms Church youth group.

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Check out the eyes on this “Westport … Naturally” Compo Beach cormorant!

Colorful, beautiful, piercing — and very, very fierce.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … on this date in 1876, the 2-day Battle of the Little Bighorn began. It was an overwhelming victory for the combined Lakota Sioux, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes, and a humiliating defeat for the US Army’s 7th Cavalry. Five of their 12 companies were wiped out; General George Armstrong Custer was killed, along with 2 brothers, a nephew and a brother-in-law.

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Roundup: Yankee Doodle Fair, Neil Gaiman, Saugatuck Rowing …

Posted on June 14, 2023 | 1 comment

Summer is here!

The Yankee Doodle Fair — the way we know that’s true — is almost all set up.

(Photo/Matt Murray)

The annual fundraiser for (and at) the Westport Woman’s Club on Imperial Avenue opens Thursday, at 6 p.m. It continues Friday night, and throughout the weekend.

Click here for details.

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Neil Gaiman, author of “American Gods,” “Coraline” and “The Sandman,” is coming to Westport.

He’s the keynote speaker at StoryFest 2023. The 6th edition of StoryFest, the Westport Library’s annual celebration of reading, writing, ideas and community, will be held October 20-22.

Gaiman headlines opening night. The weekend includes panel discussions and other events, with authors Angie Kim, Gabino Iglesias, Stephen Graham Jones, Caroline Kepnes, Eric LaRocca, Josh Malerman and more.

Free registration for the keynote address begins June 20. The complete lineup and schedule for StoryFest 2023 will be announced this summer.

The largest literary festival in Connecticut and one of the biggest in New England, StoryFest drew more than 800 participants and 40 authors to the Library last year,

This year’s StoryFest keynote doubles as the Fall 2023 Malloy Lecture in the Arts,. The spring edition featured artist and former Psychedelic Furs frontman Richard Butler.

The Malloy Lecture in the Arts, delivered free to the public since 2002 thanks to the generosity of Westport artist Susan Malloy, highlight individuals who have had significant cultural influence and whose work has enhanced the understanding and appreciation of the arts.

Neil Gaiman

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The Saugatuck Rowing Club Junior Rowing program showed well last Sunday, at the USRowing Youth Nationals in Sarasota, Florida.

The largest Youth Nationals ever drew over 4,000 athletes from 225 clubs and schools. Saugatuck Rowing Club sent 12 boats.

The women’s U17 4+ A boat, including  Clementine Kirt, Carolina Proctor and Alice Frascella of Wesptort, and Hannah Makmale of Weston), helped SRC defend its championships for the third year in a row.

In a thrilling finish, the Saugatuck 4+ B boat including Rylie Cordella and Olivia Saw of Westport, and Anne Studnicky of Weston, took silver, giving the club the top 2 spots.

Earning bronze: the men’s U17 4+ boat, with Westley Dick and Tommy Wright of Westport, and Daniel Lee and Davis Evans of Weston), along with the men’s U16 8+ boat, with Westporters Elena Nasar, Daniel Arava, Jack Mello, Liam Wiegand and Alex Proctor (Westport).

Saugatuck Rowing Club’s U-17 4+A boat national champions (from left): Coach Cody Silvester, Alice Frascella, Carolina Proctor, Madeline Casano, Clementine Kirt, Hannah Makmale.

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Congratulations too to Derek Amlicke.

The Staples High School pole vaulter won the New England championship, clearing 14′ 3″ in Bangor, Maine.

Earlier this year, he set a new Staples record: 15′ 2″.

The sky’s the limit for Derek!

Derek Amlicke (Photo/Jacob Halsema)

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Emperor Nero fiddled while Rome burned.

On July 2, State Representative Dominique Johnson will fiddle while while Westport celebrates.

The legislator — whose 143rd district includes part of our town — brings her bluegrass instrument to First Folk Sunday (VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, 12:30 p.m.).

Johnson began playing violin at 2 years old in a Suzuki program. She discovered bluegrass through her grandfather’s family in Kentucky.

First Folk Sunday is a popular new folk series featuring Suzanne Sheridan (vocals and guitar), Bob Cooper (keyboards). and guest artists.

There is a $10 music charge. Brunch, plus a make-it-yourself Bloody Mary bar and Mimosas are extra.

For more information and tickets click here, email info@firstfolksunday.com, or call 203-222-1441.

State Representative Dominique Johnson

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Last week, members of the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force and the student-led Staples High School Sexual Assault Awareness and Self Defense Club attended a private female self-defense training session at Fit Club Jiu-Jitsu in Fairfield.

The group practiced defensive tactics and learned practical skills, including situational awareness and how to avid potentially risky situations.

Instruction came from Fit Club owner/coach Joe Oppedisano, Staff Corporal Michael Ruttenber (Westport Police Department) Rob Curcio (Weston Police Department) and Detective Beth Leetch (Fairfield Police).

Trainers and trainees.

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Westport Sunrise Rotary and Westport Country Playhouse Staff teamed up to help visitors at the SCP’s recent open house have fun playing”Toss the
Duck into the Bucket.”

It was a great promotion for Sunrise Rotary’s Great Duck Race (June 24, Jesup Green). Click here for details.

Promoting the Great Duck Race, at the Playhouse. From left: Mike Hibbard (duck), Giovanni Orozlo, Joe Watson, Chris Conte, Erin Reynolds. (Photo/Ashley Sweet)

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On Monday, 30  Y’s Men of Westport and Weston and their guests toured the UN.

It’s the latest in their ongoing series of educational and cultural events.

The Y’s Men’s guide, from Uzbekistan, describes the Security Council. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Cedar waxwings are today’s “Westport .. Naturally” feature.

They’re also, as Westport Community Gardens director/photographer extraordinaire Lou Weinberg explains, “the bandits of the bird world. With their black masks and paintbrush tails, these beauties travel in flocks and love the serviceberry tree.”

He adds: “If you love birds, plant serviceberry and other native trees, shrubs, wildflowers and grasses. Nature wins!”

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

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And finally … Happy Flag Day!

The American flag was adopted on June 14, 1777, by resolution of the Second Continental Congress.[1] 

Two years earlier on this date, Congress adopted “the American continental army.” So happy birthday too to the US Army!

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Contributions are tax-deductible. Please click here to support us — and thank you!)

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Pic Of The Day #2247

Posted on June 12, 2023 | 1 comment

Sorting ducks for the Great Duck Race. The Westport Sunrise Rotary event is June 24. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

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Roundup: SLOBs, AWARE, ROMEOs …

Posted on May 21, 2023 | 17 comments

Yesterday’s weather drove all but the hardiest yard workers indoors.

In anticipation of today’s sunshine — and, more importantly, to get ready for the 7th annual Dog Festival (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), a crew of SLOBs (Staples Service League of Boys) headed to Winslow Park to help.

“This was Westport at its best,” praises Matthew Mandell, executive director of the Dog Fest sponsor, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

“This was the most challenging prep for the event ever.”

Winslow Park will look great today, as thousands of dogs and their owners enjoy everything from obstacles courses and competitions to a K-9 demonstration and vendors.

And they’ll have a bunch of SLOBs to thank.

SLOBs set up for the Dog Festival. (Photo/Matthew Mandell)

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Also working outside yesterday: a hardy bunch of Westport Sunrise Rotary volunteers.

As they had promised Westport’s Department of Human Services, they showed up — dressed for the occasion and with their usual boundless energy — to help clean up a local resident’s home. The event was part of the international organization’s annual Day of Service.

They removed high grass, tree limbs, weeds and more from the property of a resident who was unable to do so, or afford to pay for it.

A brief pause from hard work. (Photo courtesy of Rob Hauck and Bruce Fritz)

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The foul weather also forced AWARE’s annual soiree indoors.

Over 100 folks crammed into a private home — rather than the back yard — to celebrate the organization, and its partner.

AWARE stands for Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education. Each year, they work with a different organization, offering financial resources, hands-on and moral support, and friendship.

For the past year, they’ve joined with Her Time. The Bridgeport non-profit assists women affected by incarceration and domestic violence.

The food and drinks were delicious. The fundraising went well. And “AWARE-ness” about Her Time was raised high too.

AWARE members and Her Time representatives spent a “family” evening together. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Also indoors last night: Actress/singer/songwriter (and 2013 Staples High School graduate) Michelle Pauker returned to MoCA Westport. Her Joni Mitchell tribute was part of the “Music at MoCA” series.

Last summer, Michelle performed “Broadway Through The Ages” for a sold-out crowd in the Museum’s gallery.

Her composer/director, Jake Landau, was a Staples classmate. The Juilliard and Oxford graduate is a quickly rising composer and conductor.

Next in the Music at MoCA series: Vanisha Gould, a Jazz at Lincoln Center Emerging Artist (June 10, 7 p.m.). She and her quartet will perform originals and selections from the Great American Songbook. Click here for tickets and more information.

From left: Michelle Pauker, Rachel Hoy and Ravi Campbell, last night at MoCA Westport. (Photo/Lily Hultgren)

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After decades of getting ready for the 7:30 a.m. bell, retired teachers have the luxury of sleeping in.

But former Staples High School educators find a variety of ways to stay active and engaged. They lead full, interestinglives.

Every so often they get together (though a bit later than 7:30) to compare notes, and talk about their lives then and now.

They call themselves ROMEOs: Retired Old Men Eating Out.

How many of these legendary teachers did you recognize?

Here they are (clockwise from lower left): Toby Watson, Al Jolley, Stan Rhodes, Werner Liepolt, Pete Van Hagen, Bruce McFadden, Jim Honeycutt, Ed Bludnicki, John Pepe, Jeff Lea, Jim Wheeler.

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Remember James Comey?

Before he became FBI director (and was fired by President Trump), he was general counsel at Bridgewater Associates, the Westport-based world’s largest hedge fund. He lived here too, in Greens Farms.

Comey’s new gig is mystery writer. He next book — “Central Park West” — will be published May 30.

It takes place at a fiction version of “the world’s largest hedge fund.”

Hmmm … will any other bits of Westport make it into the book?

I’m not buying it to find out.

But if anyone else does, please let me know. (Hat tip: Allen Siegert)


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Drew Angus has spent the last 3 months in Nashville. He’s writing songs, and playing with very talent musicians.

On June 8, the 2007 Staples High School graduate takes the stage at Fairfield Theatre Company, to share stories and songs from his time there.

Drew will be joined by Westonite Jeremy Goldsmith on guitar, Wilton’s Spencer Inch on drums, Nick Trautmann (Darien) on Bass, and non-Nutmegger Adam Bonomo (keyboard). A few special guests may join them.

Click here for tickets. Click here for more on Drew Angus.

Drew Angus

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Yesterday’s “06880” noted that it was the 96th anniversary of the day Charles Lindbergh took off on the first-ever non-stop solo crossing of the Atlantic Ocean.

Naturally, there’s a (sort of) Westport connection. (Beyond the fact — which I forgot to note — that Lindbergh and his family lived for several years on Long Lots Road.)

Longtime resident and avid “06880” reader Matt Murray’s grandmother was a friend of the engine builder/designer Charlie Lawrence.

The day before the flight, he asked Matt’s grandmother, “Do you want to see this fellow take off from Roosevelt Field at 5 a.m. to fly solo across the Atlantic?”

She replied, “Charlie, you’re drunk,” and did not go.

But because she was fluent writing and speaking French, Charlie asked her to write Lindbergh’s letter of introduction for when he landed.

As a thank you, she later received a picture of Lindbergh and Lawrence — and their signatures — just before he flew away.

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There’s always something to see on Soundview Drive.

Tammy Barry took the popular stroll the other day, and spotted these irises. They won’t be there long. Fortunately, she snapped this shot for “Westport .. Naturally.”

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … on this day in 1970 Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young recorded “Ohio.”  Neil Young wrote the song about the murder of 4 people at Kent State University, 2 1/2 weeks earlier.

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Roundup: Super Bowl, Ukraine Fur Coats, Moon Telescope …

Posted on February 13, 2023 | 8 comments

Westport was not represented on the field, at last night’s Super Bowl.

But our neighbor Christian Siriano was part of the action. At least, part of one of the multimillion-dollar ads.

The fashion designer — whose Collective West store is a popular Post Road East destination — was there in the front row, in a “Clueless”-themed Rakuten advertisement with Alicia Silverstone.

(Screenshot and hat tip/Dave Briggs)

There must have been other “06880”/Super Bowl connections. If you know of any, click “Comments” below.

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Speaking of the Super Bowl: On Saturday residents flocked to Stop & Shop, stocking up for the big game.

Many paused at both entrances. Members of the Sunrise Rotary Club, Westport Police Department, Westport Police Athletic League and Representative Town Meeting were there to collect non-perishable items.

From a couple of cans to a few full shopping carts, generous Westporters reaped rewards for 2 great causes: Homes with Hope, and our Department of Human Services food pantries. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

Westport Police Department officials and others, with food at the Gillespie Center. Rear, from left: Officers Sean Doyle and David Lovallo, Chief Foti Koskinas, RTM member Andrew Colabella, Officers Scott Thompson and Dominique Carr. Front: unidentified, and Anna Rycenga of the Westport PAL.

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Not everyone who wanted to, could make it to the coat-and-more collection drive for Ukraine, at the last 2 Westport Farmers’ Markets.

Organizer Mark Yurkiw said he’d accept donations at his home.

Yesterday, he welcomed a big one. Several Rowayton residents showed up in 5  cars. All were completely filled with clothes and other gear — including fur coats. It took an oversized van to truck it all to Redding, where it will be crated and shipped overseas.

The Rowayton folks said they felt powerless to help — until they heard of the coat drive. They asked what else they could bring, and do.

Mark continues to accept donations. Email mark.think3d@gmail.com for details.

From Rowayton to Ukraine, with live. Artist Mark Yurkiw created the Ukrainian symbol on his garage door.

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The next community trash pick-up takes place this Sunday (February 19, 11 a.m.) at the Westport train station.

The meeting place is the lower level parking lot on the New York-bound side, next to Luciano Park (near the EV chargers).

All volunteers are welcome. Bring trash bags, gloves and boots, and dress warmly.

Questions? Email acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

A previous trash pick-up, on Greens Farms Road.

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The Westport Astronomical Society’s 25 Obsession telescope has been a workhorse for over 30 years.

But it’s a beast — and very difficult to set up and take on the road. With great attendance at their public nights, the WAS needs another instrument.

It’s got to be powerful — but light enough to pack it up and set it outside, for sidewalk astronomy.

They’ve got their eyes set (ho ho) on a New Moon Telescope — 20″, with an f3.5 mirror and some cool add-ons.

For nearly a decade, they’ve fundraised on Fairfield County’s Community Foundation Giving Day. They’ll do it again on February 23. Their goal is $10,000.

The 24-hour online drive is a local competition. All tax-deductible contributions could help WAS win major prizes. Mark your calendar for February 23 — and bookmark your calendar here.

New Moon telescope.

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It’s hard to know who had a better time Saturday night, at the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s first-ever Winter Ball: the young girls, or their dads (or other loved ones) who escorted them.

A crowd of over 100 danced to a DJ, enjoyed refreshments, and visited a photo booth and nail painter.

Attendees also brought food items, and made other donations to Homes with Hope.

Jay and Sophia Skye Norris visit the photo booth, at the Y’s first Winter Ball.

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The other day, 12 Coleytown Middle School students participated in the Southwestern Connecticut “Mathcounts” competitions. Adan Wang, Adrianna Gavriloiu, Ayush Rudra and Owen Wood finished second. All 4 mathletes will represent the school at the state competition next month. 

Ayush, Owen and Adan finished #1, 7 and 11 respectively in the individual competition.

Other Coleytown competitors included Adrianna Gavriloiu, Akil Arvind, Anit Arvind, Zylan Wang, Luke Cooper, Ulysses Nixon, Alex Liakh, Justin Jendrock and Luci Trinchi.

Congratulations to all!

Joining the competition host and Coleytown Middle School Math Club coach Archi Rudra are (from left) Adan Wang, Ayush Rudra, Owen Wood and Adrianna Gavriloiu.

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Marcello Deaguero is a noted local DJ for schools, charities, parties, bar and bat mitzvahs — and the instructor for the popular “Dance with Marcello.”

He recently relocated his class to a new studio. It’s in the back of the Dance Collective building (222 Post Road West).

Marcello is celebrating the move with free classes throughout the month. Everyone — from people who know him through his DJ work, to newcomers looking for a good dance or fitness class — is welcome for free, all month long.

Click here for more information.

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Today is the 47th anniversary of Dorothy Hamill’s near-perfect, gold medal-winning, ice skating performance at the Winter Olympics in Innsbruck, Austria.

The Greenwich native became an international superstar. In 1993, an AP poll ranked her and Mary Lou Retton as the most popular athletes in America, far ahead of people like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Troy Aikman, Dan Marino, Wayne Gretzky, Joe Montana and Nolan Ryan.

Today, Greenwich’s town-owned rink is named for Dorothy Hamill.

But in 1976, Westport took pride in her accomplishments too. As a youngster, she frequently skated on Round Pond, off Compo Road South — just opposite the entrance to Longshore, where her relatives lived.

Click here for more on Dorothy Hamill, thanks to “Today in Connecticut History.”

Dorothy Hamill, in 1976.

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Last week John Hamilton and Fiona Wilkes of Liberation Programs — a Bridgeport-based nonprofit that provides support to people with substance use disorders — addressed the Westport Rotary Club.

Liberation president and CEO Hamilton noted that fentanyl has surpassed heroin and other opiates as a leading cause of drug overdoses. With 100,000 overdoses per year nationally, the need for recovery programs has increased dramatically. But only 1 out of 10 people who qualify for treatment reaches out and accepts it.

Wilkes — the director of development and communications — said that all households should have the opiate overdose treatment Narcan in their medicine cabinets.

John Hamilton of Liberation Programs, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo and hat tip/Dave Matlow)

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Today’s “What’s Next in Weston” podcast features 1st Selectwoman Sam Nestor’s interview with the town’s public safety communications director, Larry Roberts.

It’s the first in a 2-part discussion of the Connecticut Land Mobile Radio Network, the statewide emergency communications system that will provide important coverage for area towns.

Click below to listen. The podcast is a service of the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston.

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Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day.

Weston’s Jolantha gets ready to pig out.

(Photo/Hans Wilhelm)

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At Christmastime, there are only 7 swans a-swimming.

The other day, “Westport … Naturally” photographer Rick Benson counted more at Sherwood Mill Pond.

He did not see 6 (Canada) geese a-laying. Happily, there was not even one.

(Photo/Rick Benson)

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And finally … Peter Tork was born today, in 1942.

The Monkees’ keyboardist and bass guitarist grew up in northeastern Connecticut; his father was an economics professor at the University of Connecticut. He was a member of the first-ever graduating class at E.O. Smith High School in Storrs.

Tork — whose real last name was Thorkelson — had cousins who attended school in Westport.

He died in Mansfield, Connecticut in 2019, 10 years after being diagnosed with cancer.

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — and a non-profit. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: Rob Simmelkjaer, Paul Newman, President Kennedy …

Posted on November 6, 2022 | 3 comments

On the even of today’s New York City Marathon — and a couple of weeks before Roh Simmelkjaer takes over as CEO of its organizer, New York Road Runners — the New York Times sat down for a chat with the Westport resident.

Simmelkjaer is familiar to local residents. He’s a former member of the Zoning Board of Appeals, and the Democratic Town Committee.

Persona — the interview and conversation-focused social media startup he founded — had a heavy local presence.

Simmelkjaer has also been a top manager at ESPN, an on-air Olympics personality for NBC, and — most recently — director of the Connecticut State Lottery.

He calls the Road Runners gig his “dream job.” (He comes prepared: He’s finished the New York Marathon twice.)

Click here to learn about Simmelkjaer’s plans — including a greater focus on the mental health aspect of running, and expanding the organization’s reach — in the Times’ Q-and-A. (Hat tip: John Suggs)

Rob Simmelkjaer

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Also in today’s New York Times: a review of Paul Newman’s new posthumous memoir, “The Extraordinary Life of an Ordinary Man.”

It’s by Richard Russo, who has some skin in the Westport actor’s game. Newman’s portrayal of Sully in the film adaptation of Russo’s novel changed the author’s life, opening doors to a screenwriting career.

Click here for the full Times piece.

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CraftWestport — the Young Woman’s League’s mega-pre-holiday fair — returns to the Staples High School fieldhouse today, after 2 COVID years off.

Among the 175-plus exhibitors: Aiden Schachter.

The Staples High School student is selling his LED lightclouds. That may be a first for the event — and he may be the youngest vendor ever.

The show runs until 6 p.m. today. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Aiden Schachter, and his lightcloud booth.

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As the political season heats up, so does the work of Marc Selverstone.

The 1980 Staples High School graduate — An associate professor in presidential studies at the University of Virginia, and chair of the Presidential Recordings Program at the Miller Center of Public Affairs there — is about to publish “The Kennedy Withdrawal: Camelot and the American Commitment in Vietnam.”

It’s called “a major revision of our understanding of JFK’s commitment to Vietnam, revealing that his administration’s plan to withdraw was a political device, the effect of which was to manage public opinion while preserving United States military assistance.”

Selverstone is an expert on the subject. At the Miller Center he edits the secret tapes of Presidents Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon.

Click here for more information, and to purchase.

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How do stress levels affect children’s brain development?

That’s the topic of the next Positive Directions “Lunch and Learn” series.

Frank Castorina, PD clinical supervisor, provides insights on November 16 (noon to 1:30 p.m., Westport Weston Family YMCA0.

It’s an important and timely topic. And lunch is provided! Click here to RSVP.

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Speaking of stress: Relax with some wine! (Adults, not kids …)

Westport Sunrise Rotary has just the ticket. Their “Westport Uncorked” wine tasting fundraiser is set for The Inn at Longshore (Friday, November 18. 6:30 p.m.).

Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served, along with dozens of fine wines provided by The Fine Wine Company of Westport. (All wines are available for purchase).

Every dollar raised goes directly to charities supported by Westport Sunrise Rotary. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Good times at the 2019 Uncorked wine tasting, at the Inn at Longshore.

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In advance of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers’ November 25 release of “Live at the Fillmore 1997” — their first live record in over a decade — Emmy-winning Westport animator Jeff Scher has created a great video.

Viewers will recognize plenty of local scenes, including Compo Beach, North Avenue and Cross Highway. There’s also the “Heroes Tunnel” through West Rock Ridge near Wilbur Cross Parkway Exit 59 in New Haven.

Click below to see:

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Westporters turned out in force yesterday, to help the Westport police force — and folks in need.

The Police Department and Stop & Shop sponsored their annual Thanksgiving Food Drive. All donations — 436 bags, filled to the brim — support Homes with Hope’s Food Pantry at the Gillespie Center. and Westport Human Services’ Food Pantry.

Some residents went out of their way to bring food. Others spotted the food drive, and added non-perishable items to their shopping lists.

At the end of the day, an entire (and enormous) truck was filled with much-needed goods. Thanks to all who contributed — and of course to the WPD, and Stop & Shop.

RTM member Jimmy Izzo, former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe (with his wife Mary Ellen and grandson Charlie), and Police Chief Foti Koskinas (center), with volunteers and Westport Police Department officers at the Thanksgiving food drive by Stop & Shop.

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“Script in Hand” — the Westport Country Playhouse’s very popular series of staged readings — returns November 14 (7 p.m.). The show is “Ripcord.”

Click here for details (including a plot summary) and tickets.

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If you’ve eaten at La Plage, you know there’s fine dining by the water.

If you’re a bald eagle, you agree. Seth Goltzer spotted this bird enjoying a tasty meal of squirrel at Longshore.

It’s the real world. And it fits perfectly with our “Westport … Naturally” concept.

(Photo/Seth Goltzer)

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And finally … Aaron Carter, the singer and actor (and brother of Backstreet Boys member Nick Carter) was found dead yesterday at his California home. He was 34.

(Your clock should have been set back an hour last night. And don’t forget to support “06880” either! Please click here to contribute.)

3 Comments

Posted in Children, Entertainment, Local business, Police, Politics, Westport Country Playhouse

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Duck!

Posted on July 9, 2022 | 1 comment

A large crowd gathered at Jesup Green today, for the annual running of the ducks.

(Photo/Matthew Mandell)

The Sunrise Rotary Club fundraiser returned live, after 2 COVID years. Proceeds go toward the organization’s many service projects, in Fairfield County and around the globe.

Warm-up activities included older kids …

Rebecca Yormark (shown with her mother Diane) built and raced her own “duck car.”

… and younger ones.

Grace Waldman is all in. (Photo/Mark Mathias)

Then Sunrise Rotary volunteers got to work …

(Photo/Matthew Mandell)

… and the race was on!

(Photo/Matthew Mandell)

Janet Mittleman won the $5,000 grand prize.

Runners-up — also winning substantial cash awards — were Nick Battaglino, Anna Brady, Rob Graham, Alexander Strompen, Tracey Cauley, Wen Hsu, Rady Johnson, Jason Wolgast and Silvia Durno.

They’re probably all out celebrating now.

At the Duck?

1 Comment

Posted in Downtown

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Roundup: VersoFest, Tax Holiday, Downshifters …

Posted on April 10, 2022 | 2 comments

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Yesterday — the middle of the Westport Library’s 3-day VersoFest — included a keynote speech by Michael Jai White.

The actor/writer/producer/martial artist/former Westport personal trainer described his upbringing in Bridgeport, his career in the movie industry, and his quest to bring a full-scale, state-of-the-art, employing-hundreds studio and production facility to Connecticut.

“I was not put on this earth to make a billion dollars,” he told the crowd. “I’m here to share a billion dollars.”

Michael Jai White (Photo/Dan Woog)

Another highlight from yesterday: the announcement that Tammy Winser is the winner of the contest to design a cover for Verso Studios’ new record label

It’s the first label for any library, anywhere in the country. Music will be produced at the Westport Library’s high-tech studio.

Tammy’s work was chosen from dozens of entries. Here it is:

Meanwhile, all the album covers entered in the contest were shown on the Library’s big screen, prior to the big reveal:

(Photo/Dan Woog)

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Yesterday was also the Rotary Day of Service.

Westport’s Sunrise Club gathered (in early morning hail) at grungy I-95 Exit 17.

Sixteen members (and 3 spouses) collected 17 large bags of trash, along the roadside and ramps. Their haul included liquor bottles, masks, bumpers — and a passport. Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department hauled it away.

Numerous passing drivers honked, and gave thumb’s-up. Now all they have to do is stop tossing liquor bottles, masks and passports out their windows.

Sunrise Rotary members Bruce Fritz and Paul Keblish clean up Charles Street …

… while Maria Fraioli snags a stray bumper.

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Last month, the state General Assembly suspended Connecticut’s 25-cent gas tax. They also added a second “Sales Tax-Free Week” to the annual summer holiday.

The spring “Sales Tax-Free Week” begins today (Sunday, April 10). It runs through Saturday (April 16).

This week, sales of clothing and footwear costing less than $100 will not be subject to sales tax.

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Westporters were out in force yesterday, taking advantage of the nice weather to beautify their land.

Among them: a woman at the historic Jesup Road property just west of the police station.

(Photo/Robin Myers)

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In the 1950s and early ’60s, the Downshifters were Westport’s premier hot rod club.

The club is long gone. So are hot rods. And the members are getting up in age.

But the ones who are still around have a new project: varsity jackets.

They’re ordering those sharp-looking jackets, complete with logo. And you don’t have to be a former member to order one.

Contact Morgan Smith for details: aeronaca33@gmail.com. The deadline is April 15.

So you’ve got to hurry. But don’t speed.

Downshifters jacket.

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Staples High School Class of 1971 graduate Bonnie Erickson offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” treat.

She spotted this beauty in the Saugatuck River, near the Library Riverwalk:

(Photo/Bonnie Erickson)

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And finally … the Westport Library’s VersoFest ends tonight, with what is sure to be a kick-ass performance by Selwyn Birchwood. If you haven’t yet heard of the rising blues artist — you will. Click here for more information, and tickets.

2 Comments

Posted in Economy, Entertainment, Library, Looking back, Transportation

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Remembering John Hendrickson

Posted on December 16, 2020 | 7 comments

Rotarians are active, outgoing people.

And no Rotarian was more active or outgoing than John Hendrickson.

The longtime Westport Sunrise Rotary Club member — and former president == died last month, after a struggle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 81.

John Hendrickson

For many years, John chaired the Sunrise Rotary’s annual wine tasting fundraiser. When he asked you to help — or buy a ticket — it was impossible to resist.

He served as treasurer of the club’s 21st Century Foundation. He was also Area 2 assistant governor and district governor coordinator.

John was a Paul Harris Society Member and Fellow, among the highest Rotary International honors.

John was also involved in Westport soccer. He was particularly proud of his sons Jon and Matthew’s Staples High School careers.

John — a Brooklyn native who moved to Norwalk, after many years in Westport — is survived by Carole, his wife of 44 years; his sons; his daughter-in-law Dagmara, and his grandchild Maisie. He was predeceased by his brother Bryan Matthew Hendrickson.

A celebration of John’s life will take place at a later date.

7 Comments

Posted in Organizations, People, Sports

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